Chapter 94 [After School]

Gwen collected her notes and books. She knew about presentations and public speaking from high school. Her teachers and college profs had inspired her in a great many ways. Still she'd seen a lot from Sanders. She came to understand the value of his anecdotes.

The students' reactions spanned the gambit. While Boredom weighed on many faces, Interest's light poked through that sullen overcast. Hands did shoot up. Questions prompted explanations. Learning did happen.

Maybe I don't have to be that big researcher. Dad used to talk about service. I know Peter thinks the same every time he puts his costume on. She considered the engagement ring. I can do my part.

"Miss Stacy?"

She saw Clark watching her from the doorway. "Hi, Clark. Is there something I can do for you?"

"Lex is giving me a ride back to the mansion to visit Mr. Parker. Need a hand while we're waiting?" He looked about the room.

"I'm set. Thanks." She smiled. "That's nice of you. Look, Clark. I'm sorry about the extra credit not being there right now."

"That's okay. It's not your fault. Mr. Reynolds knows I want to. If and when you're ready for that, I'm here." He rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm sorry about what happened this morning."

Confusion raised her eyebrow. "What are you talking about, Clark?" She turned her phone on. Seeing her calls, her eyes went wide. "What's with all of the calls?" She zipped her satchel shut and pulled her coat on.

"That's kind of what I was getting at. Chloe told us at lunch." He winced.

"Clark, what happened to Mr. Parker?" she pressed.

"The Planet asked Chloe to write a piece on Jasmine's stock purchase. It came out in this morning's edition. Apparently the Bugle let Mr. Parker go. I just wanted to let him know he's not alone."

She shook her head. Shock hit her hard. "He was what? Mr. Jameson really did that?"

"I just know what I heard. Lex can tell you more. As I said, I just wanted to see how he was doing," he replied.

"I know Mr. Parker will appreciate that. Come on. Lex will be here any minute." She shut the lights off and walked with him to the door. She waved good night to the front office assistants and walked out the door.

Lex waited for them by the Lexus. He'd spent much of that day thinking of how to treat that ride over. He knew better than to upbraid either Osborn or Jameson. Martha and Jonathan volunteered to have Peter and Gwen over for dinner. He and Jasmine had talked to the Planet. "Hi, Guys."

"Lex, what happened? Clark just told me about Peter." Desperation pressed her for an answer.

Lex shrugged. "Jameson gave Peter an ultimatum on Monday. Chloe's article was the last straw I guess. Jameson didn't even call him."

She sighed. "Mr. Robertson more than likely wanted to break the news himself. He's like that. I can imagine how hard it was for Betty to have to talk with Peter first. I can't believe this! Peter's so loyal! He's sold those pictures for barely anything for years! I know he doesn't have a lot of money but I don't care! Peter's always sacrificing. That's how that man treats him? Honestly!" She rubbed her forehead. "Aunt May's going to be so crushed."

"Gwen, you aren't alone. In fact, Mr. Dubois reminded Peter that he has the important things in life already. I'd say the same of you. We aren't New York here. Metropolis is pretty close. Met U's there. So's the Daily Planet. Even Wichita's got its perks. The Wichita Eagle's not a bad place either. There are lots of senior housing and activities in both places." Lex unlocked the car. "Want anything at the Talon? I'm getting a cappuccino."

"Guys, I can get a ride from someone…." Clark tried to give them their space.

"Clark, you too. Peter would appreciate seeing you. Frankly you two have a lot you can offer each other. Come on." Lex motioned toward his car's back seat. "I'll drive you back to the farm afterwards."

"All right. Thanks, Lex." Clark climbed into the backseat.

"Thank you, Clark. I appreciate the kindness." She got into the passenger seat.

Some times Kindness was its own reward….