CHAPTER 37

One month later – Election Day morning

Clark stifles a yawn as he enters the kitchen and heads straight for the coffee maker. "You're up early," Lois remarks while sipping her coffee.

"I was up early doing my chores," he says as he pours some coffee into a mug then adding some sugar and cream. "So what are you doing here so early? Can't you have coffee at your place?"

"I stopped by to pick up the last of the decorations for the party tonight," she replied before sticking her tongue out at him.

"Now that's real mature," he says with a smirk as he sits down at the kitchen table. "So how was your date last night with Oliver?"

"He took me to a movie, then to Friendly's for ice cream sundaes," she replies with a smile.

"Let me guess. Rocky Road?"

"Nope," shaking her head. "Wild Cherry."

He arches a brow. "You must really like him if you're getting something other than Rocky Road," looking over at her out of the corner of his eye.

She doesn't reply as she continues sipping her coffee.

"I think it's more than that," he goes on. "Do you think you may be falling in love with him?"

She puts her mug down with a sigh. "I don't know. Maybe."

"Oliver and Lois sittin' in a tree, k.i.s.s.s.s.i.n.g," he says in a singsong voice.

"Kissing only has two s's, not four," grabbing a apple cinnamon muffin from the basket in the middle of the table and throwing it at him.

"Not if you're doing it for a long time," he laughs as he easily snatches the muffin out of mid-air. "Thanks for the muffin," holding it up before taking a huge bite out of it. "So what movie did you go see anyway?"

"The Legend of Zorro," she replies. "It was either that or Shopgirl."

"Shopgirl? I thought you didn't liked romantic comedies," quirking a brow.

"I don't," she replies with a snort. "I will kill you if you tell anybody this but…" hesitating a moment. "I like You've got mail and When Harry met Sally."

"I promise I won't tell anyone," crossing his chest with his finger. "Lana and I used to watch them all the time when we were dating," smiling at the memory. "So how was Zorro?"

"Ehh," she shrugs as she finishes her coffee. "I liked the sword fights but other than that…" her voice trailing off as she gets up and places the mug in the sink. "I'm heading off to the polling place at Smallville High to cast my vote, then finish setting up for the victory party at the Talon tonight," she says as she grabs her jacket off the coat rack and puts it on.

"You sound pretty confident that my father's gonna win," he says as he gulps down the last of his coffee and sets the mug in the sink next to Lois.'

"I don't like to put out any negative thoughts," she replies as she pulls out her gloves. "It's a little nippy for early November," she adds as she puts them on.

"I know," agreeing with her. "They say it might actually snow later in the week," he adds. "So are you gonna need any help setting up?"

"Chloe and I got most of it done last night, but thanks for asking," she says while taking out her keys. "Now don't forget to wear a suit and tie for the party tonight," she says with laughter in her voice as she opens the kitchen door.

"Yes, mother," rolling his eyes as she steps outside and closes the door behind her.

"Yes, Clark?"

He turns around to see his mother coming down the stairs. "Good morning," walking over to give her a peck on the cheek when she reaches the bottom.

"Good morning," she replies with a smile as she goes into the kitchen and opens the refrigerator door. "So did you need something, Clark?" she asks as she pours some cranberry juice into a glass and closes the door.

"No," he replies. "Lois was just nagging me about wearing a suit tonight for the victory party," rolling his eyes again.

She laughs as she sets the glass down on the table and pulls up a chair. "I happen to agree with her," sitting down and taking a sip.

"Me too," says Lana as she slowly makes her way down the stairs. "Ugh," she scowls; one hand on her lower back and the other on her distended belly as she sits down. "I'll be glad to get this kid out of me," she says with a sigh as Clark hands her a glass of milk.

"I don't want any milk," pushing the glass away.

"Then what do you want?" he asks.

"Something I can't have until after the baby is born," she sighs as she retrieves a muffin from the basket and starts to eat it.

"My guess would be a Strawberry Margarita, right?" Martha asks with a hint of a smile on her face.

"Oh, yeah," nodding her head.

"Well it won't be too much longer," Martha replies, her hand reaching out to lightly caress Lana's stomach.

Lana was about to answer when Jonathan comes into the house. "Sorry about missing breakfast," he says as he takes off his jacket and hangs it up. "I had to finish milking the cows," heading over to the sink to wash his hands.

"You're forgiven," Martha replies with a smile as she gets up to give her husband a soft kiss on the lips. "You have just enough time to take a quick shower and change your clothes before we have to make our appearance at Smallville High so you can officially cast your vote."

"Yes, dear," he replies with a teasing glint in his eyes as he lightly gives her backside a quick squeeze before heading up the stairs.

"I didn't see that," Clark mutters under his breath as he grabs his backpack. "Good thing I only have morning classes today," he say as he walks over to Lana. "I'll see you later," giving her a brief kiss on the cheek before going outside.

She leans back against the chair with a sigh. Martha looks at her curiously. "Are you okay?" she asks with concern in her tone.

"It's just that," hesitating a moment before going on. "When I see how affectionate you and Mr. Kent are with each other, it just makes me feel a little sad that I don't have that in my marriage. I know that it's a different situation with Clark and I but still…" her voice trailing off.

"I know, sweetie," she says in a soft voice as she sits back down. "It's understandable that you would want that," taking her hand. "I know what it's like to be in love with someone who doesn't love you back in the same way."

"You do?" a surprised expression on her face.

"I do," Martha replies. "I had a college sweetheart. I thought I'd never get over it when he broke up with me, but then I met Jonathan and I realized that what I had felt for him paled in comparison," a soft smile on her face. "So you hang in there," patting her hand. "Your Prince Charming will come along."

She looks up at Martha. "I believe it, coming from you," smiling at her as she stands up. "I think I'll go for a short walk," sighing as she goes outside, groaning softly with every step.

Martha walks over to the sink to wash the few dishes left there before heading upstairs. "Are you almost ready?" she calls out to Jonathan as she knocks on the door before entering the bathroom.

"Almost," he replies, turning the shower off and pulling back the curtain. "Maybe next time you could join me," flashing her a wink as he steps out of the tub and dries himself off with a towel.

"Apparently we each have a different definition of almost," her eyes lingering on his body as he drops the towel.

"It would be practical for us to shower together," wrapping his arms around her waist and lowering his lips until they were a couple inches away from hers. "We'd save money on water usage."

"Are you sure that's the only reason?" quirking a brow at him.

"Hell, no," he declares, giving her a passionate kiss. "Does that answer your question?" he asks after pulling away.

"Hell, yes," grinning back at him before pulling him back in for another kiss, then pushing him away. "Now please finish getting dressed before we're late," swatting him on his backside before leaving the bathroom.

"Was that payback for what I did earlier?" he asks while rubbing his backside where she hit him.

She turns around. "You better believe it," she replies in a mischievous tone as she goes back downstairs.

He can't help laughing as he goes into the bedroom and starts getting dressed…

Later that afternoon…

"So what's the latest?" Lex asks his campaign manager as he hangs up the phone.

"Jonathan Kent is a couple points ahead right now," he replies. "It's still early yet. The polls don't close until eight o'clock," he goes on to say.

"Keep me informed," he replies as he dials another number.

"Yes, sir," he answers back as he leaves the room, the swinging doors closing behind him.

"I think that you and Chloe did an amazing job in decorating this place," Oliver remarks as he walks around the Talon.

"Thanks," Lois replies as she walks over to the coffee machine. "Want any?" she asks while pouring herself a cup.

"I try to limit my coffee intake to around two cups a day," he replies as she adds several teaspoons of sugar and a splash of milk. He watches with curiosity as she gulps it down and prepares another cup. "Maybe you should do the same."

She looks up. "I don't drink that much coffee," frowning slightly.

"I think that's your fourth cup this morning," he counters back as he walks towards her. "Not to mention the fact that you practically inhale your coffee," standing in front of her. "There is something to be said about taking your time and savoring the moment," his fingertips lightly caressing her cheek.

"Oh?" her voice cracking a little as his fingers glide down her neck.

"Of course," smiling inwardly when he feels her racing pulse. "Maybe tonight I could show you what I'm talking about," lowering his lips to her ear. "Would you like that?" pressing them against her neck.

"Mmm, yes," she whispers back just before his lips meet hers in a soft kiss…

"So how are you feeling?" Chloe asks Lana as they sit down on the porch swing.

"I'm pregnant, how do you think I'm feeling?" snapping back as she rests her hands on her belly.

"Sorry," Chloe replies as she leans against the back cushion.

Lana turns her head. "I'm sorry I snapped."

"It's okay," Chloe replies with a smile. "You're allowed. So how are things between you and Clark?"

"Fine, I guess."

"You guess?"

"Chloe, I'm married to a man who's gay and desperately in love with another man. Need I go on?"

"Enough said," Chloe replies with a light chuckle. "So you should see how the Talon looks," changing the subject. "I can't wait for everybody to see it."

"I can't wait either," says Clark as he climbs up the stairs and drops his backpack next to the kitchen door. "So what are you girls up to?" he asks as he sits down in an adjoining chair.

"Just enjoying the fresh air," they both reply at the same time.

He smiles back at their simultaneous response. "So have you heard the latest on the voting?"

"Your father is ahead by two points," Chloe replies. "It's still early though."

"I have a good feeling about the election," Clark says with a smile before his expression darkens slightly.

Both Chloe and Lana notice the change in his facial expression. "It's about Lex, isn't it?"

He looks over at Lana. "Yeah," sighing at the thought of his former lover.

Chloe and Lana exchange glances. "So how about Lois and Oliver Queen?"

Clark looks up at Chloe. "What about them?"

"They've been attached to the hip ever since they met," she replies with a grin. "Do you think she's in love with him?"

"I asked her that question this morning," he says.

"What was her answer?" Chloe asks in a curious tone.

"She said maybe," he replies after a brief pause. "She definitely likes him, that's for sure," he says as he gets back up. "I should probably do my homework for tomorrow before getting ready for the party tonight," abruptly getting up and heading in the direction of the barn.

"He really misses Lex, doesn't he?" Chloe remarks sadly as they watch him walk into the barn.

"Yeah," Lana replies. "I know he still has dreams about him," sighing as she gets up from the swing. "I have to go to the bathroom again," rolling her eyes as she opens the kitchen door.

"I'll see you at the party later," Chloe replies back as she walks over to her car.

"Okay," waving back as the car takes off down the driveway.

Meanwhile, Clark sits down at his desk in the loft and opens one of his text books. After about ten minutes, he slams the book shut because he was unable to concentrate. He gets up from his chair and lies down on the couch, closing his eyes and drifting off to sleep while memories of Lex making love to him in the loft invade his dreams…

"Yes, oh yes," he cries out at how much he's enjoying what Lex is doing to him; clutching the blanket in his fists as Lex pulls and squeezes his cock while penetrating him harder and harder. Then his body shakes violently from the mind-blowing orgasm that hits him; collapsing onto the blanket.

Lex keeps up his thrusts until he has one of his own; yelling out Clark's name before collapsing onto his back; still inside him.

"Oh, Lex," he whispers softly; his body finally settling down…

His eyes open abruptly and he looks downward when he feels wetness between his legs. "Damn you, Lex," he mutters under his breath as he removes his jeans. Good thing I keep an extra pair here, retrieving them from the bottom drawer of his desk and putting them on.

He looks over at the textbook on his desk. I'll do my homework later, he decides as he heads down the stairs carrying his backpack, the soiled pair of jeans stuffed inside…

The Talon – later that evening…

The party is in full swing. Everybody is laughing and having a good time. Jonathan and Martha have just entered through the front door. "Can you fix the clasp on my necklace?" she whispers to him. He sweeps her hair to the side and fiddles with it. "You know one more district and you have a whole new commute to Topeka," she tells him.

He fixes the clasp and kisses her on the neck. "The only victory that ever mattered to me is when I won your heart," whispering in her ear before giving her a soft kiss on the lips. When they see Lois and Oliver, they immediately walk over to them.

"Hi, Senator & Mrs. Kent," Lois quips while Oliver shakes their hands.

"I haven't won yet," he replies.

"Oh you will," Lois interjects. "I'm going to check out the latest results. I'll be right back," giving Oliver a peck on the cheek before walking towards the staircase.

"So where are Clark, Lana, and Chloe?" Martha asks as Jonathan walks over to the refreshment table to get them some punch.

"Clark and Lana should be here any minute," Oliver replies while sipping his punch. "Lois told me that Chloe had a flat tire so she'll be a little late."

"Well I'm glad you were able to make it tonight," Martha turns to him.

"I wouldn't have missed it for the world," he replies with a smile.

"Oliver," Martha begins. "I just wanted to tell you again how appreciative Jonathan and I are of your very generous donation to Jonathan's campaign. We really didn't want to take any money from Lionel Luthor. That would have been a last resort."

"You don't have to thank me," he says to her. "I had heard a lot of good things about your husband so it wasn't a hard decision for me to make."

"You're very modest," she remarks as Jonathan comes over and hands her a cup of punch.

"I finally made it!" Chloe declares as she walks over to where they were standing.

"Did you have to get a new tire?" Jonathan asks as he hands her the other cup of punch and goes back to get some more.

"No, thank goodness," taking a sip. "It took me longer than I thought to change it though."

"You didn't call AAA?" asks Martha.

"Why should I call them if it's something I could do myself?" she counters.

"Good for you, Chloe," Oliver remarks with a smile.

"Well it's about time we got here," Lana snaps at Clark as he helps her out of the car.

"It's not my fault that we had to stop twice to find a restroom," snapping back at her.

"I am pregnant you know," her voice rising an octave. "With your child by the way!"

"No need to remind me of something I already know," he replies in an exasperated tone as he walks up to the front door of the Talon and opens it, turning around to face her. "Let's put a smile on our faces shall we?" arching a brow.

"Don't tell me what to do," brushing by him.

I can't wait for this baby to be born, he thinks to himself as he follows her inside. "Hi, everybody," plastering a smile on his face.

"Sorry we're late but you know how slow a driver Clark is. He drives like an old lady," Lana replies with a smirk as she greets everybody.

"That's not why-" he starts to retort when Oliver grabs his arm.

"Let's go get a drink," pulling Clark towards the refreshment table. "So what's going on?" Oliver asks as they reach the table. "I sense a little tension between the two of you," picking up the ladle and pouring some punch into a cup and handing it to Clark.

"Thanks," taking a sip before answering. "I guess it's the hormones that's making her so moody," continuing to sip.

"That's probably it," Oliver agrees as he takes a sip from his own cup.

Clark finishes his drink and pours some more punch into his cup. "So what was it that made you decide to back my father in the first place?"

Oliver is a little taken back by the suddenness of the question at first. "Well…" pausing before he answers. "It's like I told your parents. I had heard a lot of good things about your father and that it wasn't that hard a decision for me to make. Besides, Lex has enough money as it is."

"You know Lex?" looking at him curiously.

"We both went to Excelsior," he replies as he finishes up his punch and pours some more into his cup. "We didn't get along very well back then. I'm ashamed to say that I constantly made fun of his baldness. If I knew then what I know now, I wouldn't have done it."

"Did you ever resolve things between the two of you?" Clark asks him.

Oliver thinks about it for a moment. "We sat down and talked about it not too long ago," he replies. "I was surprised when he called me out of the blue. I'm glad he did though because I always felt bad about the way I treated him in school and it gave me the chance to apologize."

"Did he forgive you? Are you friends now?

"He did forgive me," Oliver replies. "As for us being friends, I don't think I would call us that. I think it's safe to say that we're friendly whenever we see each other. So let me ask you something. Why did you and Lex break up?" changing the subject.

Clark does a spit take. "What do you mean?" a trace of nervousness in his voice.

"I know you and Lex were romantically involved until recently."

"Lois told you, didn't she?" Clark's eyes darkening. "When I get my hands on her-"

"Don't get mad at Lois," jumping to her defense. "She didn't tell me anything."

"Then how did you know?"

"The other day I was walking up to the front door and I happened to overhear a conversation between you and your mother about Lex," resting one hand on Clark's shoulder. "Don't worry about it. I'll keep your secret."

"I appreciate that. Thank you," Clark replies. "As for the reason why we broke up-" he starts to say but that's when Lois appears at the top of the stairs.

"I have an announcement to make," she calls out. "I just got the final results." Everybody gets really quiet. "Congratulations, Senator Kent," beaming from ear to ear; running down the stairs as everybody starts crowding around Jonathan and Martha. One person after the other tells him congratulations. Clark and Oliver reach them at the same time as Lois.

"Congratulations, Dad," giving him a big hug.

"Thank, son," hugging him back.

"It's my turn," Lois interrupts, pushing Clark away and throwing her arms around Jonathan. "Congratulations, Senator," beaming from ear to ear.

"I couldn't have done it without you," he tells her.

"It was my pleasure," she replies back. Then she lets go and gives Martha a hug.

Clark looks up at the television monitor, gazing at the picture of Lex as the on-air reporter announces Jonathan's victory over Lex. Chloe notices the pensive expression on his face and walks over to him. "Maybe you should go over to the mansion and see how he's holding up."

"I don't think that's a good idea," shaking his head.

"Why not?" she asks.

He looks at her. "Why should I? He's the one who broke up with me," a hint of anger in his tone.

"Didn't you tell him recently that you were willing to try and be civil?" she counters back.

He doesn't answer her right away. Finally he says, "I hate it when you're right. That's sooo annoying."

"Tell me something I don't know," she replies with a satisfied smirk on her face.

Lana walks over to them. "I'm really tired and I want to go home," she tells Clark.

"How about I take you home so that Clark can go see Lex?" Chloe pipes in.

"You're going to see Lex?" Lana looks up at him with a surprised expression on her face. "Why?"

"I'm only going to see how he's holding up," shrugging his shoulders. "He did lose the election after all. Besides, if I don't go see him now, Chloe will keep on nagging me until I do. Sometimes it's easier to just give in," he ends with a sigh.

"I'm not that bad," Chloe scowls slightly while punching him on his upper arm.

"Hey!" rubbing his shoulder and pretending it hurt for the benefit of the crowd around them. "Lois is the only one who gets to do that," his eyes narrowing slightly.

"Lois must feel sooo special," a wide grin on Chloe's face while Lana can't help chuckling at her quip.

He just rolls his eyes. "I'll see you back at the farm," leaning forward to kiss Lana's cheek. "Good night," giving Chloe a hug before heading over to his parents and telling them where he's going before heading outside, taking a good look around before super-speeding away...

TO BE CONTINUED…