The scene opens during the night as we see Lana fly over several fields to the Kent Farm. She flies into Clarks room She hovers over Clark. As she watches Clark sleep a calming smile comes across her face. Suddenly Clark's eyes open and looks up at Lana.
Clark - I'll never hurt you
Suddenly Whitney bursts into the room. Looking all frustrated and angry.
Whitney - Stay away from my girlfriend!
With that short angered remark, Whitney runs over to Clark, picks him up and throws him out the window. Lana is shocked by the sequence of events. She tries to reach out to stop Whitney as save Clark, but she is immobile. All Lana could do is scream
Lana - NOOO! CLARK!
Nell comes rushing into Lana's room to find Lana sitting up in her bed. The bed sheets hanging half the bed, while Lana has her hands over head with beads of sweat running down her forhead.
Nell - Lana! Are you alright? What happened?
Lana - I'm alright. Just a horrible dream. A nightmare really.
Nell - It wasn't about your parents again was it?
Lana - No, No. I haven't had a dream about them for while now.
Nell - Tell me what was it about. Did it have something to with Clark? I heard you yell out his name.
Lana - I..I..I saw Whitney…and Clark. Oh god.
Nell - Lana what is it?
Lana - I dreamt that Whitney…that Whitney killed Clark.
Nell - It was only a dream Lana. You know Whitney would never do such a thing in real life.
Lana rolls her eyes. "Whitney has no faults in the eyes of Nell" remarks Lana in her mind.
Nell - Are you sure you are alright?
Lana - I'm FINE Nell.
Nell - Great! Listen While you were sleeping Whitney dropped by. He looked very distraught. I told him you were sleeping. He said he would be back sometime later. Anyways, I have to go to Metropolis today. I should be back later tonight.
Lana - Fine. I'll see you later.
Nell leaves. Lana sits in her bed for the next hour. Legs curled up into her chest, head resting on her knees as she contemplates her dream. Lana was never one to put stock in dreams. Most of the dreams she's had caused her to relive the past. This is because most of the dreams she has revolves around her parents. For some reason this dream bothered her. She sat there thinking to herself "Why is this dream bother me so much? Does it mean something?" The questions played over and over again. She was so consumed with the thoughts of this dream, Lana almost didn't hear the doorbell. As the bell rings repeatedly Lana snaps out of her daze. She puts on an old t-shirt and sweat pants, and heads down stairs. She wonders why Nell hasn't answered the door. As she approaches the door, she could see through the drapery that covers the door who it is. It was Whitney. Her pace slows down as she hesitates in whether or not she wants to see Whitney let alone talk with him. She decides that it would be best to get this over and done with. She opens the door to find Whitney with a bunch of flowers in hand looking as her Aunt had said earlier…very distraught.
Whitney - Lana! Hi!
Lana - Whitney. What are you doing here?
Whitney - After last night, I've been a mess. I'm really sorry for what I said to you. I didn't mean it. I've been wondering around trying to figure out a way to make it up to you. I realized there was nothing I could do or say that would really make things all better. The only thing is to come to you and just tell you I'm sorry and…
Lana looked at him as he said his little speech. However, while he was speaking all she could picture was Whitney throwing Clark out a window like in her dream.
Whitney - Lana! Hey Lana. Are you ok? Have you listened to anything I have just said? He says with increasing annoyance.
Lana snaps out of her daze. She didn't know what to say since she really wasn't listening to him.
Lana - Uh..Thanks Whitney.
With a now angered tone
Whitney - You weren't listing were you?! I come here bear my heart out and all you can say is thanks. What's going on with you? Let me guess you are thinking of lover boy Kent.
Lana tilts her head down as a reaction like 'here we go again'. As her head raises, as she looks him in the eyes she has a look of sheer determination on her face. One stemming from anger, frustration and a search for freedom.
Lana - Why can't you leave that alone. Listen I had a rough night. The last thing I really need right now is you questioning my relationship with Clark or my loyalties to you.
As soon as she said it, she knew how Whitney would interpret what she said. Her RELATIONSHIP with Clark. Hey LOYALTIES to Whitney. That is not how she wanted it to come out. It was too late she was on a roll.
Lana - I am really tired of your jealousy. I can't even walk down the street with you without you freaking on some guy because he looked my way. When will you learn that I am not a trophy you can parade around for your enjoyment. A relationship is based on mutual enjoyment, and lately I haven't been enjoying us. All you want to do is…
Whitney - Beat the crap out of Clark. Ever since you've been talking to him you've been different. He's changed you. I don't think for the better. You used to be such a good girlfriend and now you don't even seem to realize what you are doing to us.
Lana - What I'm doing? What I'm doing? I may have changed, but not for the worse, for the better. Don't you even dare think of going near Clark.
Whitney - I see the way he looks at you. And now I can see that you might share his feelings.
Lana - Grrr…Clark and I are just friends. I have told you this over and over again. What do you want to hear?!
Whitney stared at her intently. She returned the stare. She knew what he wanted to hear. Most of her head and heart were trying to hold her back, but the impulsive side took over. The only thing that they could do was keep her from yelling it.
Lana - Fine! Gulp. She hesitated. She didn't want to say it, but she wasn't going to back down now.
Lana - I hate Clark Kent. I hate Clark Kent. I can't stand being around him. I wish he doesn't live so near me. Are you happy now! There!
All Whitney could do was snicker. He won the argument, he knew it. Lana on the other hand was now overwhelmed with guilt. Why couldn't she stop herself for saying such a thing. She didn't mean any of it. Whitney! "It was all Whitney's fault! He can really get me riled up."
Moments earlier, Clark is getting ready in his room, trying to find his best outfit. It was quite hard since everything was pretty much the same style…farm boy casual. Oh well he chooses a red shirt with jeans. He basis on comfort rather than fashion. He's going to be nervous around Lana anyways why worry about how he looks. He heads downstairs and lets his parents now he is heading to Lana's for a while, but that he will be back for dinner. He quickly zips through the fields behind his home as he heads to Lana's. He stops running as he steps onto Lana's driveway. He spots Whitney's truck. He walks ever so slowly, hesitating really, whether or not he should come back or call later. As he pauses, the slight ringing occurs in ears once again. He quickly focuses his thoughts into hearing.
Lana - I hate Clark Kent. I hate Clark Kent. I can't stand being around him. I wish he doesn't live so near me. Are you happy now! There!
Clark in an instant disappears from Lana's driveway. He runs as fast as he can to where…he doesn't know his destination. His face shows only disappointment. Almost as if those words that came from his Angel's mouth stripped all emotions from him. A single tear appears down his cheek but just as it appears it is blow away by the force of wind created by Clark's speed.
Lana looks over Whitney's shoulder to see a cloud of dust near the end of her driveway. She turns her attention back to Whitney who has a big grin on his face. Right then and there…that smugness…that did it for Lana.
Lana - Whitney I can't believe you made me say those things about Clark. Are you pleased with yourself. I don't even want to look at you right now. Infact I don't want to look at you ever again. We are through!
Whitney was dumbfounded. He knew he got her mad and angry, but he just thought this was going to be another fight and that they would get over like all the other ones before. Never did he think she would ever leave him. After all he is the most popular guy in school and captain of the football team.
Whitney - Lana, hold on there. Listen this is just an argument, we'll get past.
Lana - The same old argument Whitney. A couple shouldn't argue as much as we do.
Whitney - Lana, I need you. With my da…
Lana - Do not even bring your father into this. He has no place in this. I'm sorry for what you are going through, I truly am. But from this day forward you have to deal with it without me.
Whitney - I can't…You have been such a support. I can't even begin to tell…
Lana - Why are you still here? Don't even pretend you are all caring and sensitive now. I know you better than that. I'm going in now. I think you should leave.
Whitney - Fine…but you'll come crawling…
SLAM! Before he could finish his sentence Lana slams the door in his face. All Whitney could do was drive away. Lana runs up the stairs to her room and cries of all cries. She was upset, but she wasn't sure for what reason. Was it because she and Whitney had just broken up through another viscious argument or was it because she had said some terrible things about her best friend. It had to be the former she thought. Surely she felt guilty about saying those things, but no one had heard her let alone the one person who she wouldn't want to hurt…CLARK. Lana spent the rest of the day doing various things around the house to keep her mind off Whitney and her dream. She cleaned, she did her homework, she read not one but two books. What she really wanted was Clark to be there. "Oh no…We were going to talk some more today. Was he supposed to come here? Was I supposed to go there? Was I supposed to call him?" An almost panic came over Lana. She had been so pre-occupied with Whitney that she nearly forgot her best friend. She rushed over to the phone and dialled Clark's number.
Martha - Hello, Kent Farm.
Lana - Hi Ms. Kent. How are you?
Martha - I'm good. Thanks for asking. So what do we owe this cal…
Worry came over Martha as she realized the only reason Lana would be calling was if Clark was somehow in trouble.
Martha - Oh my…Is Clark alright?
Lana - That's why I called, isn't he home?
Martha - No, he told us he was going to be at your house until dinner.
Lana - That's strange he never came over. Well if he comes home could you tell him to call me, I really need to talk to him.
Martha - Sure thing Lana. If you here from him first, please tell him to call home.
Jonathan - Who was that?
Martha - That was Lana.
A bewildered look is on her face. She doesn't even look up at her husband.
Jonathan - Is Clark alright.
Seeing his wife's expression he knows something is wrong.
Martha - Apparently Clark never went to Lana's.
Jonathan - If he didn't go over to Lana's, where could he have gone? It's not like Clark to lie…well not to us.
Martha - Remind me not to worry.
They looked at each other lovingly, trying to comfort each other and calm the others nerves. Even with Clark's powers, they worried about him, probably even more than they would a normal child.
Clark runs, and runs. He heads for a friendly face. He stops in front of a large mansion. He knocks on the large wooden door. A smiling bald man answers the door.
Lex - Clark! What do I owe this honour?
Clark - I just need a place to chill out for a while.
Lex - Sure…come in.
Clark walks in, without an expression on his face. Lex has never seen Clark like this before. Clark has always been a innocent youth. Something has changed that.
Lex - What's wrong Clark.
Clark hears Lex's question. He doesn't know what to say. So he turns around and starts to head for the door. Lex steps in front of him.
Lex - CLARK! What's wrong.
Clark - It's Lana.
Lex - Of course it is. Any teenaged boys problem revolves around a girl.
Clark looks at Lex with an un-amused look. Lex realizes his comment has not gone over like usual.
Clark - She…she…she…
Lex - Clark. What ever it is it can't be that bad. She'll realize the quarterback isn't right for her and you'll have her to yourself.
Clark - Who's the naïve one now Lex.
Lex - What is that supposed to mean?
Clark - I went to her house today. Whitney was there. I didn't here their entire conversation. But I heard a crucial part. She told Whitney…she told him that…
Lex - That she didn't want be seen with the dumb jock.
Clark just stared at him blankly.
Lex - You are right I'll shut up now.
Clark - She told Whitney that she hated me. I heard her say I HATE CLARK KENT.
Lex was dumbfounded for probably the first time in his life.
Lex - Are you sure you heard correctly?
Clark – I heard it with my own two ears. I know Lana's voice from anyones.
Lex looked upon Clark with sympathetic eyes as for since the first time since he has known Clark, he had never sent he young teenager so defeated. Even when he was strung up in the cornfield, or when Phelan came to town, or when his father sold the farm, or when he was injured with the apparent Super boy. In Lex's eyes, Clark was a full-blown optimist and typical small-town boy in his books.
Lex – Clark I'm sorry. I'm sure Lana didn't mean to say what she did. Did you hear the rest of the conversation?
Clark – No. I ran away as soon as I heard it. It doesn't matter Lex. She said it.
Lex – Clark don't jump to conclusion. Lana isn't one to say such things about anyone especially about you. She really likes you Clark.
Clark doesn't respond. Almost as if he didn't hear Lex speak. After a few moments of silence.
Lex – Clark, how is it that they never saw or heard you?
Clark – Don't start this again Lex.
Lex – I'm just curious. I know Lana would definitely not say what she said with you in ear shot.
Clark – Well for your information I was down at the end of her driveway.
Lex looked at him with suspicion and an eyebrow raised as he has done many times before when Clark has been around unusual unexplainable events.
Clark – Lex…it is a farm…Sound travels clearly. I guess she was yelling or something.
Lex – Well I don't believe it. I'm going to get to the bottom of this.
Clark – Don't Lex! Just let it be. I'm going to go now. I'll see you around.
Lex knew there was nothing he could do or say that would console his poor young friend right now. Nothing that would remove the pain and hurt. Clark with head sunken leaves the mansion in a slow uneasy pace. Not wanting to stay but not knowing where to go Clark looks truly lost for the first time. Lex is left with a determined look in his eye. His determination to know what happened and to get Lana to realize her feelings has never been greater than that moment.
At the beanery, Lex speeds up in a Aston Martin. No one bothers to look anymore since everyone in town knows who it is. They do turn around when they hear the screech of the tires on the asphalt as Lex slams on his brakes and skids right into a parking spot. As he exits one of his many cars, many of the towns people just stare at him with a look that is a combination of envy and hate. Since this is nothing new to Lex, he chooses to ignore his on lookers and heads into the Beanery. He scans the room looking for someone in particular. His search is interrupted when Chloe Sullivan walks up to him.
Chloe – Hey Lex. You know that is a great imitation of Clark looking for Lana.
Lex – Thanks…but it's not an imitation really. I am actually looking for Lana.
Chloe – Oh no! Another bites the dust. Another has succumbed the womanly wilds of Lana Lang.
Lex smirks at the comment. Lex is probably the one person in the world who can fully appreciate Chloe's sense of humour.
Lex – I just need to clear a few things with her.
Chloe – A yes…the Lana and Clark quest on union.
Lex – Yes and no. Speaking of which has Clark come to see you yet?
Chloe – No, haven't spoken to him since last night. Why?
Lex – He probably doesn't want to tell anyone. Something happened to him earlier today.
Chloe – Is he alright? Does his parents know?
Lex – Perhaps we should sit down and I'll fill you in. Maybe you could help.
Lex grabs a coffee before sitting down with Chloe. Just as they sit down Pete walks in and casually sits with the duo.
Pete – Hey what's up you two? Planning more surprises for us. Let me guess this time Lex has gotten an interview for you with the elusive Bruce Wayne.
Chloe – Pete shut up! Clark's got hurt today.
Pete – What did actually hit him with a car this time Lex?
Chloe gives Pete a shot to the stomach for making such a disgusting remark. Pete expression changes from his joking manner to something of concern. Chloe usually saves stomach shots for things more serious.
Lex – It's quite alright Chloe. Pete I was just about to tell Chloe about Clark. Have you seen him?
Pete – Nah. Chloe and I ditched him and Lana here last night.
Lex pauses as his mind races a mile a minute. "What happened between last night and today for the events to have occurred the way they have" he asks himself.
Chloe – Lex, what happened to Clark?
Lex – You two hang around Lana quite a bit don't you?
Pete – Well only since she quit cheerleading, joined the newspaper and started to hang with Clark more.
Chloe – We don't talk that much. What has that got to do with Clark?
Lex – Have you ever known her to have a mean streak. Say hurtful things for the intention of hurting someone.
Chloe – No, of course not. As much as I don't want to admit it, she is one of the kindest people I have ever met. Besides blowing up at Clark a couple of weeks ago with that hermit Kyle incident, she just as nice as Clark is.
Lex looks over at Pete.
Pete – Yeah, it is probably why Clark and her get along so well. They are two peas in the same pod.
Chloe cringes as she takes in what Pete has said. As much as she hates to admit it to herself Lana and Clark do seem to be a great match for each other.
Lex – Hmm…I thought as much. I've known her for years. Not directly but through her aunt. Nell has never anything like what happened earlier today.
Chloe – Lex, you're killing us here. What's going on?
Lex proceeds to let them in on what happened in detail according the story Clark had told him when he dropped by the Luthor estate earlier on. Chloe and Pete listen shocked and mesmerized at Lex's story telling.
Chloe – Where is he now?
Lex – I don't know. He left my house a couple hours ago. I had hoped he would have gone home to his parents. But when I called over to check on him, Mr. Kent said they hadn't seen him since the morning.
Pete – What do we? Find Clark? Confront Lana?
Lex – That's why I came here looking for her. I wanted to get her side of the story. I don't believe Clark heard right.
Pete – Lex. Clark is not a liar. If he heard that, then he heard that.
Lex – I know, but something is not right about this. I believe Lana has the same feelings for Clark as Clark does for her, but has yet to realize them. So for her to say that…well maybe Tina Greir is out of the hospital.
Chloe – Hey that's my line.
Lex – Listen, if you see Lana let her know I'm looking for her.
Chloe – Don't worry we'll let her have it.
Lex – No. I'll handle this. Just go about things normally. Especially with Clark. I don't think he would want you to pick a fight with Lana. That would do more harm the good.
Pete – Chloe, Lex is right. We just have to back Clark up right now. Don't need to add anymore stress on him.
Chloe – I'm going to go over and see him.
Lex – Leave him alone for tonight. You'll see him at school tomorrow. He needs his space.
With that piece of protective brotherly advice Lex walks out and heads home. As Lex heads out, Chloe rushes to the door.
Pete – Where do you think you're going?
Chloe – I'm going to see Clark.
Pete – Didn't you hear Lex?
Chloe – I heard him. I'm not going to listen to him.
Pete – Chloe!
Chloe – Pete!
After an extended discussion, Pete manages to calm Chloe down and convince her Lex's idea was a good one. To get their minds off things they head to a movie.
Lex pulls up to his mansion and is greeted by Kat with her arms crossed looking very displeased.
Lex – Well Ms. Grant what do I owe for this most warm welcome homes?
Kat – I can't believe you left me here Lex. First you bring me here to this godforsaken town and then you ditch me.
Lex – There is plenty of things to do in the mansion if you are bored.
Kat – Who needs trinkets and toys…I'm looking for a plaything.
Lex – So…you are a little pissed that I didn't take you to town to talk to Clark are you?
Kat – Yes…no. I'm a social commentator. I need the people.
Lex – Right…a people person. Describes you accurately. With the faintest hint of sarcasm. Listen Kat, stay away from Clark for a few days. He's going through something, and I don't want you to interfere.
Kat – I'm borrowing your car Lex. If you don't want take me then I'm going on my own.
Lex holds up the keys, taunting them in front of Kat. Kat quickly snatches them from his hand and speeds away in a matter of seconds. As much as Lex enjoyed toying with people, he had other things he had to take car of.
Kat Grant has always been a big city girl. Before yesterday she had never set foot in a small town. Yet here she was, in Smallville. "The name says it all" she thinks to herself. Two weeks in the this place. The only thing that would save her would be if she had a little plaything, a male plaything to be more specific, a male plaything with the name Clark Kent to be exact. As she parks the car, Kat sees a familiar site, the Beanery. She strolls over and enters the Beanery hoping to find her salvation. She looks around the coffee house as the patrons eye this outsider. She doesn't spot him. As she spins around to head out the door, she bangs into someone.
Kat – Watch where you're going?
Lana – Excuse me but you turned into me.
Kat – Well whatever.
As Lana walks past Kat, Kat recognizes who she ran into. It was the girl from last night who sat next to Clark. Not one to pass up any opportunity, she follows the brunette beauty.
Kat – Lana, can I buy you a coffee? It's Lana right?
Lana – yeah that's right. You're Kat if I'm not mistaken.
Kat – In the flesh. Said with an essence of ego. So how about that coffee?
Lana – Weren't you the one who bit my head off for bumping into just a minute ago? Now you want to buy me coffee.
Kat – I defy logic sometimes.
Lana – Sure why not.
After her two run-ins with Whitney, she had no energy to disagree anymore. Kat pays for the two cups as Lana makes her way to a table by the window. Unconsciously she chose the window seat so she could look out for someone. Someone she needed to be around. Both girls sit at the table a few minutes just sipping their drinks. Lana was a little relieved that Kat wasn't talking. There was only one person who she would want to talk to right now.
Kat – So have you seen that Clark guy around?
Spoke to soon.
Lana – No, I haven't. I was supposed to see him today, but I haven't heard from him yet. I got tired waiting at home, so I decided to see if he was here.
Kat – Really!? Hmm…Are you two…?
Lana – No. We are just good friends.
Lana tries to be pleasant but an awkward smile appears across her face. Kat notices the awkwardness of her answer. She suspects there is something Lana is trying to hide. Lana on the other hand tries to shrug off the question since this is probably the 200th person who as asked about her and Clark.
Kat – Good…cause he is really, really cute. Is he seeing anybody?
Lana – No.
Kat couldn't help but notice the abrupt answer Lana put forth. "This is going to be more fun than I thought" Kat thinks to herself. 40 minutes and 2 coffees later Kat is still asking Lana for information on Clark. Lana answers the question with increasing annoyance. She came here to talk to Clark and now she was talking about Clark to someone else. Something didn't sit right with her. Out of the corner of her eye, Lana spots Chloe and Pete coming out of the movie theatre. A thought crosses her mind that maybe Clark is with them. As she gets up, she reaches into her pocket so she could leave a tip for the waitress. As she pulls her wallet out, the red ring falls out onto the table. Kat's eyes light up.
Lana – oops. I meant to return this to the Lost and found today.
Kat – where did you find that?
Lana – On the table behind where I sat yesterday.
Kat – Thank god. I thought I would never see my ring again.
Lana – This is your ring?
Kat – Yeah I got it off…my mom, before she died. It means so much to me.
Memories flooded Lana's head of her parents. She sympatized with Kat.
Kat – I was going to put up a reward of $500 tomorrow, but seeing as you already found it here you go.
Kat takes cash out of her purse. She counts it right there on the table. She hands Lana 500 dollars right there. Lana is speechless. For a moment Lana was about to deny Kat's kind reward, but a thought of the up coming holiday season soon entered her mind. She could buy a lot of great gifts with that money.
Lana – Uh..thanks. How can you carry all that money around with you?
Kat stumbles for a minute. She was caught off guard by the question.
Kat – For some reason I don't trust banks.
Lana - Thanks, this will come in handy for Christmas.
Kat – I should thank you.
Lana – well I see some friends over there I got to go. Bye.
Kat – It was nice talking to you Lana.
Just as Lana reaches the door.
Kat – Lana! If you talk to Clark put in a good word for me.
Lana's smile fades quickly as she listens to Kat's request.
Meanwhile, Chloe and Pete start walking down the street on the way home. Lana manages to catch up with them
Lana – Hey guys.
Pete – Hi Lana, What's up?
Chloe could only give a nod of acknowledgement.
Lana – I was just in the Beanery and I saw you coming out from the movies. What did you see?
Chloe – A beautiful mind. I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Not bad.
Pete – Just admit it Chloe, you liked it. Or should I say you liked Russell Crowe.
Chloe – The movie was good, and just because Russell Crowe was in it just made it all the better.
Lana – Clark didn't go with you?
Chloe – uh…no.
Lana – Have you seen Clark? I tried his home but his parents have heard from him. I was hoping you two might have.
Pete- No such luck.
Lana – I really need to talk to him.
Chloe couldn't take it anymore. Here she was standing in front of the girl who said she hated HER Clark. And now she wanted to talk to him. Chloe thought this girl was evil.
Chloe – Haven't you done en…mmmpff! She yells out before Pete cups his hand over her mouth.
Lana stands there shocked. She didn't have any idea why Chloe would give an outburst like that. Before she could say anything.
Pete – She just got caught up in the movie. He's prone to outburts to his hallucinations. Chloe is trying her thing at acting. Well got to go.
Pete drags Chloe off running, not wanting Chloe to privy Lana to Clark's emotional state as Lex had suggested.
Lana – Ok bye.
With a very puzzled and worried appearance, Lana wonders what just happened.
Clark - I'll never hurt you
Suddenly Whitney bursts into the room. Looking all frustrated and angry.
Whitney - Stay away from my girlfriend!
With that short angered remark, Whitney runs over to Clark, picks him up and throws him out the window. Lana is shocked by the sequence of events. She tries to reach out to stop Whitney as save Clark, but she is immobile. All Lana could do is scream
Lana - NOOO! CLARK!
Nell comes rushing into Lana's room to find Lana sitting up in her bed. The bed sheets hanging half the bed, while Lana has her hands over head with beads of sweat running down her forhead.
Nell - Lana! Are you alright? What happened?
Lana - I'm alright. Just a horrible dream. A nightmare really.
Nell - It wasn't about your parents again was it?
Lana - No, No. I haven't had a dream about them for while now.
Nell - Tell me what was it about. Did it have something to with Clark? I heard you yell out his name.
Lana - I..I..I saw Whitney…and Clark. Oh god.
Nell - Lana what is it?
Lana - I dreamt that Whitney…that Whitney killed Clark.
Nell - It was only a dream Lana. You know Whitney would never do such a thing in real life.
Lana rolls her eyes. "Whitney has no faults in the eyes of Nell" remarks Lana in her mind.
Nell - Are you sure you are alright?
Lana - I'm FINE Nell.
Nell - Great! Listen While you were sleeping Whitney dropped by. He looked very distraught. I told him you were sleeping. He said he would be back sometime later. Anyways, I have to go to Metropolis today. I should be back later tonight.
Lana - Fine. I'll see you later.
Nell leaves. Lana sits in her bed for the next hour. Legs curled up into her chest, head resting on her knees as she contemplates her dream. Lana was never one to put stock in dreams. Most of the dreams she's had caused her to relive the past. This is because most of the dreams she has revolves around her parents. For some reason this dream bothered her. She sat there thinking to herself "Why is this dream bother me so much? Does it mean something?" The questions played over and over again. She was so consumed with the thoughts of this dream, Lana almost didn't hear the doorbell. As the bell rings repeatedly Lana snaps out of her daze. She puts on an old t-shirt and sweat pants, and heads down stairs. She wonders why Nell hasn't answered the door. As she approaches the door, she could see through the drapery that covers the door who it is. It was Whitney. Her pace slows down as she hesitates in whether or not she wants to see Whitney let alone talk with him. She decides that it would be best to get this over and done with. She opens the door to find Whitney with a bunch of flowers in hand looking as her Aunt had said earlier…very distraught.
Whitney - Lana! Hi!
Lana - Whitney. What are you doing here?
Whitney - After last night, I've been a mess. I'm really sorry for what I said to you. I didn't mean it. I've been wondering around trying to figure out a way to make it up to you. I realized there was nothing I could do or say that would really make things all better. The only thing is to come to you and just tell you I'm sorry and…
Lana looked at him as he said his little speech. However, while he was speaking all she could picture was Whitney throwing Clark out a window like in her dream.
Whitney - Lana! Hey Lana. Are you ok? Have you listened to anything I have just said? He says with increasing annoyance.
Lana snaps out of her daze. She didn't know what to say since she really wasn't listening to him.
Lana - Uh..Thanks Whitney.
With a now angered tone
Whitney - You weren't listing were you?! I come here bear my heart out and all you can say is thanks. What's going on with you? Let me guess you are thinking of lover boy Kent.
Lana tilts her head down as a reaction like 'here we go again'. As her head raises, as she looks him in the eyes she has a look of sheer determination on her face. One stemming from anger, frustration and a search for freedom.
Lana - Why can't you leave that alone. Listen I had a rough night. The last thing I really need right now is you questioning my relationship with Clark or my loyalties to you.
As soon as she said it, she knew how Whitney would interpret what she said. Her RELATIONSHIP with Clark. Hey LOYALTIES to Whitney. That is not how she wanted it to come out. It was too late she was on a roll.
Lana - I am really tired of your jealousy. I can't even walk down the street with you without you freaking on some guy because he looked my way. When will you learn that I am not a trophy you can parade around for your enjoyment. A relationship is based on mutual enjoyment, and lately I haven't been enjoying us. All you want to do is…
Whitney - Beat the crap out of Clark. Ever since you've been talking to him you've been different. He's changed you. I don't think for the better. You used to be such a good girlfriend and now you don't even seem to realize what you are doing to us.
Lana - What I'm doing? What I'm doing? I may have changed, but not for the worse, for the better. Don't you even dare think of going near Clark.
Whitney - I see the way he looks at you. And now I can see that you might share his feelings.
Lana - Grrr…Clark and I are just friends. I have told you this over and over again. What do you want to hear?!
Whitney stared at her intently. She returned the stare. She knew what he wanted to hear. Most of her head and heart were trying to hold her back, but the impulsive side took over. The only thing that they could do was keep her from yelling it.
Lana - Fine! Gulp. She hesitated. She didn't want to say it, but she wasn't going to back down now.
Lana - I hate Clark Kent. I hate Clark Kent. I can't stand being around him. I wish he doesn't live so near me. Are you happy now! There!
All Whitney could do was snicker. He won the argument, he knew it. Lana on the other hand was now overwhelmed with guilt. Why couldn't she stop herself for saying such a thing. She didn't mean any of it. Whitney! "It was all Whitney's fault! He can really get me riled up."
Moments earlier, Clark is getting ready in his room, trying to find his best outfit. It was quite hard since everything was pretty much the same style…farm boy casual. Oh well he chooses a red shirt with jeans. He basis on comfort rather than fashion. He's going to be nervous around Lana anyways why worry about how he looks. He heads downstairs and lets his parents now he is heading to Lana's for a while, but that he will be back for dinner. He quickly zips through the fields behind his home as he heads to Lana's. He stops running as he steps onto Lana's driveway. He spots Whitney's truck. He walks ever so slowly, hesitating really, whether or not he should come back or call later. As he pauses, the slight ringing occurs in ears once again. He quickly focuses his thoughts into hearing.
Lana - I hate Clark Kent. I hate Clark Kent. I can't stand being around him. I wish he doesn't live so near me. Are you happy now! There!
Clark in an instant disappears from Lana's driveway. He runs as fast as he can to where…he doesn't know his destination. His face shows only disappointment. Almost as if those words that came from his Angel's mouth stripped all emotions from him. A single tear appears down his cheek but just as it appears it is blow away by the force of wind created by Clark's speed.
Lana looks over Whitney's shoulder to see a cloud of dust near the end of her driveway. She turns her attention back to Whitney who has a big grin on his face. Right then and there…that smugness…that did it for Lana.
Lana - Whitney I can't believe you made me say those things about Clark. Are you pleased with yourself. I don't even want to look at you right now. Infact I don't want to look at you ever again. We are through!
Whitney was dumbfounded. He knew he got her mad and angry, but he just thought this was going to be another fight and that they would get over like all the other ones before. Never did he think she would ever leave him. After all he is the most popular guy in school and captain of the football team.
Whitney - Lana, hold on there. Listen this is just an argument, we'll get past.
Lana - The same old argument Whitney. A couple shouldn't argue as much as we do.
Whitney - Lana, I need you. With my da…
Lana - Do not even bring your father into this. He has no place in this. I'm sorry for what you are going through, I truly am. But from this day forward you have to deal with it without me.
Whitney - I can't…You have been such a support. I can't even begin to tell…
Lana - Why are you still here? Don't even pretend you are all caring and sensitive now. I know you better than that. I'm going in now. I think you should leave.
Whitney - Fine…but you'll come crawling…
SLAM! Before he could finish his sentence Lana slams the door in his face. All Whitney could do was drive away. Lana runs up the stairs to her room and cries of all cries. She was upset, but she wasn't sure for what reason. Was it because she and Whitney had just broken up through another viscious argument or was it because she had said some terrible things about her best friend. It had to be the former she thought. Surely she felt guilty about saying those things, but no one had heard her let alone the one person who she wouldn't want to hurt…CLARK. Lana spent the rest of the day doing various things around the house to keep her mind off Whitney and her dream. She cleaned, she did her homework, she read not one but two books. What she really wanted was Clark to be there. "Oh no…We were going to talk some more today. Was he supposed to come here? Was I supposed to go there? Was I supposed to call him?" An almost panic came over Lana. She had been so pre-occupied with Whitney that she nearly forgot her best friend. She rushed over to the phone and dialled Clark's number.
Martha - Hello, Kent Farm.
Lana - Hi Ms. Kent. How are you?
Martha - I'm good. Thanks for asking. So what do we owe this cal…
Worry came over Martha as she realized the only reason Lana would be calling was if Clark was somehow in trouble.
Martha - Oh my…Is Clark alright?
Lana - That's why I called, isn't he home?
Martha - No, he told us he was going to be at your house until dinner.
Lana - That's strange he never came over. Well if he comes home could you tell him to call me, I really need to talk to him.
Martha - Sure thing Lana. If you here from him first, please tell him to call home.
Jonathan - Who was that?
Martha - That was Lana.
A bewildered look is on her face. She doesn't even look up at her husband.
Jonathan - Is Clark alright.
Seeing his wife's expression he knows something is wrong.
Martha - Apparently Clark never went to Lana's.
Jonathan - If he didn't go over to Lana's, where could he have gone? It's not like Clark to lie…well not to us.
Martha - Remind me not to worry.
They looked at each other lovingly, trying to comfort each other and calm the others nerves. Even with Clark's powers, they worried about him, probably even more than they would a normal child.
Clark runs, and runs. He heads for a friendly face. He stops in front of a large mansion. He knocks on the large wooden door. A smiling bald man answers the door.
Lex - Clark! What do I owe this honour?
Clark - I just need a place to chill out for a while.
Lex - Sure…come in.
Clark walks in, without an expression on his face. Lex has never seen Clark like this before. Clark has always been a innocent youth. Something has changed that.
Lex - What's wrong Clark.
Clark hears Lex's question. He doesn't know what to say. So he turns around and starts to head for the door. Lex steps in front of him.
Lex - CLARK! What's wrong.
Clark - It's Lana.
Lex - Of course it is. Any teenaged boys problem revolves around a girl.
Clark looks at Lex with an un-amused look. Lex realizes his comment has not gone over like usual.
Clark - She…she…she…
Lex - Clark. What ever it is it can't be that bad. She'll realize the quarterback isn't right for her and you'll have her to yourself.
Clark - Who's the naïve one now Lex.
Lex - What is that supposed to mean?
Clark - I went to her house today. Whitney was there. I didn't here their entire conversation. But I heard a crucial part. She told Whitney…she told him that…
Lex - That she didn't want be seen with the dumb jock.
Clark just stared at him blankly.
Lex - You are right I'll shut up now.
Clark - She told Whitney that she hated me. I heard her say I HATE CLARK KENT.
Lex was dumbfounded for probably the first time in his life.
Lex - Are you sure you heard correctly?
Clark – I heard it with my own two ears. I know Lana's voice from anyones.
Lex looked upon Clark with sympathetic eyes as for since the first time since he has known Clark, he had never sent he young teenager so defeated. Even when he was strung up in the cornfield, or when Phelan came to town, or when his father sold the farm, or when he was injured with the apparent Super boy. In Lex's eyes, Clark was a full-blown optimist and typical small-town boy in his books.
Lex – Clark I'm sorry. I'm sure Lana didn't mean to say what she did. Did you hear the rest of the conversation?
Clark – No. I ran away as soon as I heard it. It doesn't matter Lex. She said it.
Lex – Clark don't jump to conclusion. Lana isn't one to say such things about anyone especially about you. She really likes you Clark.
Clark doesn't respond. Almost as if he didn't hear Lex speak. After a few moments of silence.
Lex – Clark, how is it that they never saw or heard you?
Clark – Don't start this again Lex.
Lex – I'm just curious. I know Lana would definitely not say what she said with you in ear shot.
Clark – Well for your information I was down at the end of her driveway.
Lex looked at him with suspicion and an eyebrow raised as he has done many times before when Clark has been around unusual unexplainable events.
Clark – Lex…it is a farm…Sound travels clearly. I guess she was yelling or something.
Lex – Well I don't believe it. I'm going to get to the bottom of this.
Clark – Don't Lex! Just let it be. I'm going to go now. I'll see you around.
Lex knew there was nothing he could do or say that would console his poor young friend right now. Nothing that would remove the pain and hurt. Clark with head sunken leaves the mansion in a slow uneasy pace. Not wanting to stay but not knowing where to go Clark looks truly lost for the first time. Lex is left with a determined look in his eye. His determination to know what happened and to get Lana to realize her feelings has never been greater than that moment.
At the beanery, Lex speeds up in a Aston Martin. No one bothers to look anymore since everyone in town knows who it is. They do turn around when they hear the screech of the tires on the asphalt as Lex slams on his brakes and skids right into a parking spot. As he exits one of his many cars, many of the towns people just stare at him with a look that is a combination of envy and hate. Since this is nothing new to Lex, he chooses to ignore his on lookers and heads into the Beanery. He scans the room looking for someone in particular. His search is interrupted when Chloe Sullivan walks up to him.
Chloe – Hey Lex. You know that is a great imitation of Clark looking for Lana.
Lex – Thanks…but it's not an imitation really. I am actually looking for Lana.
Chloe – Oh no! Another bites the dust. Another has succumbed the womanly wilds of Lana Lang.
Lex smirks at the comment. Lex is probably the one person in the world who can fully appreciate Chloe's sense of humour.
Lex – I just need to clear a few things with her.
Chloe – A yes…the Lana and Clark quest on union.
Lex – Yes and no. Speaking of which has Clark come to see you yet?
Chloe – No, haven't spoken to him since last night. Why?
Lex – He probably doesn't want to tell anyone. Something happened to him earlier today.
Chloe – Is he alright? Does his parents know?
Lex – Perhaps we should sit down and I'll fill you in. Maybe you could help.
Lex grabs a coffee before sitting down with Chloe. Just as they sit down Pete walks in and casually sits with the duo.
Pete – Hey what's up you two? Planning more surprises for us. Let me guess this time Lex has gotten an interview for you with the elusive Bruce Wayne.
Chloe – Pete shut up! Clark's got hurt today.
Pete – What did actually hit him with a car this time Lex?
Chloe gives Pete a shot to the stomach for making such a disgusting remark. Pete expression changes from his joking manner to something of concern. Chloe usually saves stomach shots for things more serious.
Lex – It's quite alright Chloe. Pete I was just about to tell Chloe about Clark. Have you seen him?
Pete – Nah. Chloe and I ditched him and Lana here last night.
Lex pauses as his mind races a mile a minute. "What happened between last night and today for the events to have occurred the way they have" he asks himself.
Chloe – Lex, what happened to Clark?
Lex – You two hang around Lana quite a bit don't you?
Pete – Well only since she quit cheerleading, joined the newspaper and started to hang with Clark more.
Chloe – We don't talk that much. What has that got to do with Clark?
Lex – Have you ever known her to have a mean streak. Say hurtful things for the intention of hurting someone.
Chloe – No, of course not. As much as I don't want to admit it, she is one of the kindest people I have ever met. Besides blowing up at Clark a couple of weeks ago with that hermit Kyle incident, she just as nice as Clark is.
Lex looks over at Pete.
Pete – Yeah, it is probably why Clark and her get along so well. They are two peas in the same pod.
Chloe cringes as she takes in what Pete has said. As much as she hates to admit it to herself Lana and Clark do seem to be a great match for each other.
Lex – Hmm…I thought as much. I've known her for years. Not directly but through her aunt. Nell has never anything like what happened earlier today.
Chloe – Lex, you're killing us here. What's going on?
Lex proceeds to let them in on what happened in detail according the story Clark had told him when he dropped by the Luthor estate earlier on. Chloe and Pete listen shocked and mesmerized at Lex's story telling.
Chloe – Where is he now?
Lex – I don't know. He left my house a couple hours ago. I had hoped he would have gone home to his parents. But when I called over to check on him, Mr. Kent said they hadn't seen him since the morning.
Pete – What do we? Find Clark? Confront Lana?
Lex – That's why I came here looking for her. I wanted to get her side of the story. I don't believe Clark heard right.
Pete – Lex. Clark is not a liar. If he heard that, then he heard that.
Lex – I know, but something is not right about this. I believe Lana has the same feelings for Clark as Clark does for her, but has yet to realize them. So for her to say that…well maybe Tina Greir is out of the hospital.
Chloe – Hey that's my line.
Lex – Listen, if you see Lana let her know I'm looking for her.
Chloe – Don't worry we'll let her have it.
Lex – No. I'll handle this. Just go about things normally. Especially with Clark. I don't think he would want you to pick a fight with Lana. That would do more harm the good.
Pete – Chloe, Lex is right. We just have to back Clark up right now. Don't need to add anymore stress on him.
Chloe – I'm going to go over and see him.
Lex – Leave him alone for tonight. You'll see him at school tomorrow. He needs his space.
With that piece of protective brotherly advice Lex walks out and heads home. As Lex heads out, Chloe rushes to the door.
Pete – Where do you think you're going?
Chloe – I'm going to see Clark.
Pete – Didn't you hear Lex?
Chloe – I heard him. I'm not going to listen to him.
Pete – Chloe!
Chloe – Pete!
After an extended discussion, Pete manages to calm Chloe down and convince her Lex's idea was a good one. To get their minds off things they head to a movie.
Lex pulls up to his mansion and is greeted by Kat with her arms crossed looking very displeased.
Lex – Well Ms. Grant what do I owe for this most warm welcome homes?
Kat – I can't believe you left me here Lex. First you bring me here to this godforsaken town and then you ditch me.
Lex – There is plenty of things to do in the mansion if you are bored.
Kat – Who needs trinkets and toys…I'm looking for a plaything.
Lex – So…you are a little pissed that I didn't take you to town to talk to Clark are you?
Kat – Yes…no. I'm a social commentator. I need the people.
Lex – Right…a people person. Describes you accurately. With the faintest hint of sarcasm. Listen Kat, stay away from Clark for a few days. He's going through something, and I don't want you to interfere.
Kat – I'm borrowing your car Lex. If you don't want take me then I'm going on my own.
Lex holds up the keys, taunting them in front of Kat. Kat quickly snatches them from his hand and speeds away in a matter of seconds. As much as Lex enjoyed toying with people, he had other things he had to take car of.
Kat Grant has always been a big city girl. Before yesterday she had never set foot in a small town. Yet here she was, in Smallville. "The name says it all" she thinks to herself. Two weeks in the this place. The only thing that would save her would be if she had a little plaything, a male plaything to be more specific, a male plaything with the name Clark Kent to be exact. As she parks the car, Kat sees a familiar site, the Beanery. She strolls over and enters the Beanery hoping to find her salvation. She looks around the coffee house as the patrons eye this outsider. She doesn't spot him. As she spins around to head out the door, she bangs into someone.
Kat – Watch where you're going?
Lana – Excuse me but you turned into me.
Kat – Well whatever.
As Lana walks past Kat, Kat recognizes who she ran into. It was the girl from last night who sat next to Clark. Not one to pass up any opportunity, she follows the brunette beauty.
Kat – Lana, can I buy you a coffee? It's Lana right?
Lana – yeah that's right. You're Kat if I'm not mistaken.
Kat – In the flesh. Said with an essence of ego. So how about that coffee?
Lana – Weren't you the one who bit my head off for bumping into just a minute ago? Now you want to buy me coffee.
Kat – I defy logic sometimes.
Lana – Sure why not.
After her two run-ins with Whitney, she had no energy to disagree anymore. Kat pays for the two cups as Lana makes her way to a table by the window. Unconsciously she chose the window seat so she could look out for someone. Someone she needed to be around. Both girls sit at the table a few minutes just sipping their drinks. Lana was a little relieved that Kat wasn't talking. There was only one person who she would want to talk to right now.
Kat – So have you seen that Clark guy around?
Spoke to soon.
Lana – No, I haven't. I was supposed to see him today, but I haven't heard from him yet. I got tired waiting at home, so I decided to see if he was here.
Kat – Really!? Hmm…Are you two…?
Lana – No. We are just good friends.
Lana tries to be pleasant but an awkward smile appears across her face. Kat notices the awkwardness of her answer. She suspects there is something Lana is trying to hide. Lana on the other hand tries to shrug off the question since this is probably the 200th person who as asked about her and Clark.
Kat – Good…cause he is really, really cute. Is he seeing anybody?
Lana – No.
Kat couldn't help but notice the abrupt answer Lana put forth. "This is going to be more fun than I thought" Kat thinks to herself. 40 minutes and 2 coffees later Kat is still asking Lana for information on Clark. Lana answers the question with increasing annoyance. She came here to talk to Clark and now she was talking about Clark to someone else. Something didn't sit right with her. Out of the corner of her eye, Lana spots Chloe and Pete coming out of the movie theatre. A thought crosses her mind that maybe Clark is with them. As she gets up, she reaches into her pocket so she could leave a tip for the waitress. As she pulls her wallet out, the red ring falls out onto the table. Kat's eyes light up.
Lana – oops. I meant to return this to the Lost and found today.
Kat – where did you find that?
Lana – On the table behind where I sat yesterday.
Kat – Thank god. I thought I would never see my ring again.
Lana – This is your ring?
Kat – Yeah I got it off…my mom, before she died. It means so much to me.
Memories flooded Lana's head of her parents. She sympatized with Kat.
Kat – I was going to put up a reward of $500 tomorrow, but seeing as you already found it here you go.
Kat takes cash out of her purse. She counts it right there on the table. She hands Lana 500 dollars right there. Lana is speechless. For a moment Lana was about to deny Kat's kind reward, but a thought of the up coming holiday season soon entered her mind. She could buy a lot of great gifts with that money.
Lana – Uh..thanks. How can you carry all that money around with you?
Kat stumbles for a minute. She was caught off guard by the question.
Kat – For some reason I don't trust banks.
Lana - Thanks, this will come in handy for Christmas.
Kat – I should thank you.
Lana – well I see some friends over there I got to go. Bye.
Kat – It was nice talking to you Lana.
Just as Lana reaches the door.
Kat – Lana! If you talk to Clark put in a good word for me.
Lana's smile fades quickly as she listens to Kat's request.
Meanwhile, Chloe and Pete start walking down the street on the way home. Lana manages to catch up with them
Lana – Hey guys.
Pete – Hi Lana, What's up?
Chloe could only give a nod of acknowledgement.
Lana – I was just in the Beanery and I saw you coming out from the movies. What did you see?
Chloe – A beautiful mind. I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Not bad.
Pete – Just admit it Chloe, you liked it. Or should I say you liked Russell Crowe.
Chloe – The movie was good, and just because Russell Crowe was in it just made it all the better.
Lana – Clark didn't go with you?
Chloe – uh…no.
Lana – Have you seen Clark? I tried his home but his parents have heard from him. I was hoping you two might have.
Pete- No such luck.
Lana – I really need to talk to him.
Chloe couldn't take it anymore. Here she was standing in front of the girl who said she hated HER Clark. And now she wanted to talk to him. Chloe thought this girl was evil.
Chloe – Haven't you done en…mmmpff! She yells out before Pete cups his hand over her mouth.
Lana stands there shocked. She didn't have any idea why Chloe would give an outburst like that. Before she could say anything.
Pete – She just got caught up in the movie. He's prone to outburts to his hallucinations. Chloe is trying her thing at acting. Well got to go.
Pete drags Chloe off running, not wanting Chloe to privy Lana to Clark's emotional state as Lex had suggested.
Lana – Ok bye.
With a very puzzled and worried appearance, Lana wonders what just happened.