Chapter 7- News and Horses
"Chlo, let's move it," Clark shouted.
Chloe ran to Clark and jumped on him, forcing him to catch her in his arms. "I'm so excited."
Clark put her down and grabbed his key. "I'm glad."
They walked across to the parking garage and Chloe said, "How do you know which one of these cars is Lex's?"
"Look," Clark said pointing at a silver car. The license plate read: LUTHOR.
"I see," Chloe said amused.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Lana stepped out of her room to wait for Lex. When she saw him here eyes got wide.
"What?" Lex asked feeling self-conscious.
"You're wearing jeans," Lana said amazed.
"And that's bad?"
"I've never seen you in jeans. I wish I had my camera."
"I'm glad I amuse you," Lex said.
"Aww. Don't be upset, sweetie," Lana said moving to stand by Lex. "It's just a change. I like it, you look more relaxed."
"You mean less like Lex Luthor," Lex asked teasing Lana.
"No, less like Lionel Luthor," she answered.
Lex shook his head. "Let's go."
"Can I drive?" Lana asked hopefully.
"Sure, babe," Lex answered kissing her nose. "Do you have your keys?"
"Yes." Lana said as they walked into the parking garage. "Which one is yours?"
"I'll give you three guesses and the first two don't count."
"Stupid question on my part," Lana said unlocking the door of Lex's red Lamborghini. The license plate was: LX ( LTHR.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Sullivan!"
"Hey, Christine," Chloe said to the girl at the front desk.
"Who is your handsome friend?"
"This is Clark Kent, love of my life," Chloe said laughing from the expected blush from Clark. She reached over and held Clark's hand.
"Everyone will be happy to see you. Go on back," Christine said with a smile.
"Thanks," Chloe called pulling Clark through the main door. She led him into a large office.
"Sullivan, I have a story for you," said the man behind the wooden desk.
Chloe laughed. "You wish. Clark this is Perry White, editor of the Planet. Perry, Clark Kent."
"You want a story Kent?" Perry asked.
"Chloe's the reporter, not me. I'm just along for the ride," Clark said.
"It's a fast ride with Sullivan," Perry said.
"Don't flatter me," Chloe said rolling her eyes.
"What have you been up to lately?"
"Most of my time is spent in college. I'm working on a journalism major. I'm trying to convince Clark, here, to join our ranks. So far I've got him enrolled in a few of my classes."
"Well, Kent you're working with the best Metropolis has to offer."
"I believe it," Clark said proudly, wrapping his arm around Chloe's waist.
"I'm going to introduce Clark to the team," Chloe said.
"Good idea. They're all here, and they'll be glad to see you. Can I count on you this summer?" Perry asked.
"You bet," Chloe answered.
When they walked into the main office area they were greeted by a whole group of people.
"Sullivan!" "Hey!" "C.S.!" "Look who's here!" "Long time no see." "Hi!"
"Hi everybody. Clark this is Bryan Thomas, Cynthia Newland, Valerie Gin, Chris Fetters, Caleb Summers, and Tiffany Leiwer. Everybody, this is Clark Kent."
"Are you one of Chloe's friends from Smallville?" Cynthia asked.
"Actually, he's my boyfriend from Smallville," Chloe explained.
"But I thought we were dating," Caleb teased.
"In your dreams, Cale," Chloe answered back.
"C.S. since you're here will you help me with this story. It won't take long," Tiffany asked.
"Sure, Tiff. Give me a minute, okay?"
"Sure."
"This should only take a second, Clark. You can sit over here to wait," Chloe said leading him to an empty desk. The gold nameplate read: CHLOE SULLIVAN.
"You have your own desk? But you're only here during the summer," Clark said confused.
"What can I say? They love me," Chloe answered with a wink. "Be right back."
Clark watched as Chloe leaned over Tiffany's computer and starting talking to her friend. Chloe was definitely in her element.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
"You can have your pick of any horse you see," Lex said gesturing at the stable full of horses.
"That's a tough choice," Lana said walking to each horse. "This one's beautiful." She pointed to a mare with tan fur and blond mane and tail. It was appropriately named Butter.
"Here's a harness and lead rope. We can tie them up outside to put the saddles on," Lex said handing her the items.
Lex chose a black stallion and harnessed him while Lana harnessed the mare. They lead their horses outside and tied them up.
"The tack room with the saddles in it is over there," Lex said pointing,
They chose their saddles, brushed down the horses, then put the saddles on them.
"Let's ride," Lana said giving Lex a kiss.
"We don't have to," Lex said holding on to her tiny waist.
Lana rolled her eyes and climbed onto her horse. She turned the mare easily and settled herself into its trot with Lex close behind. They rode almost half an hour without stopping or talking. They both knew the value of silence. Lex slowed his horse next to a stream and climbed down. When Lana stopped he lifted her off of her horse. They let the horses graze as Lex and Lana settled themselves in the grass. Lex laid back and Lana curled up beside him with her head on his shoulder.
"So, this week…good idea?" Lex asked lazily.
"Oh, yeah," Lana said.
"Good."
"You know what?" Lana asked propping herself up on her elbows so she could look into Lex's piercing blue/green eyes.
"What?"
"I'm Lana Lang and you're Lex Luthor and you're mine. Lex Luthor is mine," Lana said happily.
Lex laughed and kissed Lana on the nose. "I thought we established that about a year ago."
"Don't laugh. It's just that a year ago I thought you'd never feel the way that I felt about you. Now you do, and I still have to convince myself that you're really here," Lana explained.
"I'm here, and I'll always be here," Lex said.
"Mmm…" Lana said sleepily laying her head on Lex's chest and draping her arm across his stomach.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Chloe finished helping Tiffany, walked back to Clark, and sat on his lap.
"So, not that I'm not glad, but what brings you to Metropolis?" Chris asked.
"It's me and Clark's one year anniversary in a few days. It's also our friends Lex and Lana's anniversary. So, Lex brought us all down here for to stay in his apartment for a week," Chloe explained.
"Your friend Lex must be pretty rich to own an apartment in Metropolis that's big enough for four people," Bryan commented.
"You could say that. Our friend is Lex Luthor," Chloe said hesitantly afraid of what her colleagues would think.
"Lex Luthor! Yeah, I'd say he's rich," Caleb threw out.
"Can I meet him?" Valerie asked.
"Lex and Clark have been best friends for years, and I'll see what I can do, Val," Chloe explained.
"Best friends with Lex Luthor, that's got to be hard to accomplish," Valerie said.
"He is Lex Luthor, but the only thing that makes him different from any of us is that he has a lot of money. He has the same emotions, the same worries," Clark said defending Lex.
"We didn't mean to be rude," Cynthia said.
"It's just that most people have formed their own opinions about Lex because of his father. He is nothing like his father," Clark continued.
"Like I said Lex and Clark are best friends. Clark knows Lex better than anyone, and frequently finds himself standing up for him when Lex isn't around," Chloe explained.
"We meant no disrespect," Bryan said sincerely.
"I know, we didn't mean to imply that you did. Talking about Lex puts us on the defensive pretty quickly. I know you guys didn't mean anything," Chloe said with a smile, leaning back against Clark.
"You two look so happy," Cynthia said.
"That's probably because we are," Chloe answered.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Lana opened her eyes and blinked a few times. She looked at her watch.
"Lex. Wake up. We fell asleep," Lana said gently shaking Lex.
"What time is it?" Lex asked groggily.
"Six thirty. We slept for two hours," Lana said with a yawn.
"Well, I'm glad we decided to put on sunscreen before our ride or we'd be in a lot of pain," Lex commented sitting up.
Lana laughed. "We have half an hour to get the horses back. I'm surprised that they didn't walk away."
Lex lifted Lana onto her mare before mounting his stallion.
"We can't say that we didn't have a relaxing afternoon," Lana said.
"You're right about that," Lex said a little distant.
"It's okay, Lex. Really," Lana assured him.
"I had great plans for today," Lex said.
"We have four more days for great plans, sweetie. Don't worry."
"Thank you, babe."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * "We have to go," Chloe said hopping off of Clark's lap.
"Come back soon." "We'll miss you!" "Tell Lex I said hi!" "Bye!" "Call soon!" "Later!"
"I will call everyone in the next couple of days, maybe we can all get together. I'd really like for everyone to meet Lex and Lana. I know you'll love them," Chloe said leaving the offices.
"What do you want to do next?" Clark asked when they got outside.
Chloe looked at her watch before answering. "It's five. We have two hours at the least before Lex and Lana are due back at the apartment."
"And…" Clark urged her to continue.
"And that means two hours to have the apartment, pool, and hot tub to ourselves."
"Then what are we waiting for?" Clark asked putting the Porsche into drive.
At the apartment Chloe changed into her bright blue bikini. She walked past the hot tub to the pool, put down her towel, and gracefully dove in. Clark came in a second later. He dove under the water and started swimming laps around Chloe. She had a hard time seeing him because of his speed. She laughed as she was caught in the whirlpool Clark made around her.
"Clark!" Chloe yelled.
Clark was out of the water not a second later. "Did I hurt you?" he asked worried.
Chloe's answer was a kiss. "I'll take that as a no," Clark said.
Chloe dove under the water and swam to the other side of the pool. When she came up she stuck her tongue out at Clark.
"I'll get you," Clark said swimming after her.
Chloe swam the opposite way laughing. She was pulled under when a hand grabbed her ankle. Chloe turned under the water and pushed against Clark's chest. Like she had anticipated he didn't even move a centimeter. Chloe came up to catch her breath and think of her next move. Before she could focus her train of thought Clark grabbed her and threw her high into the air. She was barely able to touch the ceiling before she flew to the other end of the pool where Clark caught her. Chloe wrapped her legs around Clark's waist and proceeded to kiss him. She gasped when he started to spin using all of his speed. He spun so fast that a wall of water surrounded them.
Chloe was exhausted by the time she and Clark got out of the pool. They had over almost two hours before they had to leave for the club so they both took showers and put on their most comfortable clothes. Clark was lying on the couch when Chloe came out of her room.
"Scoot over," she commanded. When he did she lay down beside him.
When Lex and Lana came in Clark and Chloe were asleep.
"Looks like we weren't the only ones that were tired," Lex said looking at his sleeping friends. Clark was laying on his back and Chloe had an arm and leg thrown over him.
"I better wake them up. We have to leave in half an hour," Lana said.
"Alright."
"Clark? You need to wake up. We have to leave in half an hour," Lana whispered.
"Thanks, Lan," Clark said sleepily. He kissed Chloe on the forehead before gently waking her up.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Author's Note: The song Chloe sings is How Do I Get There? It belongs to Deana Carter. Chloe and Lana sing Don't Let Me Get Me which belongs to Pink. The song the quartet dances to is Have A Little Faith In Me, it belongs to John Hiatt.
"My turn," Chloe said walking up on stage.
"Chloe can sing?" Lana asked.
"Like an angel," Clark replied.
"You think you know a person," Lex said with a smile.
"I want to dedicate this song to my best friend who is also my boyfriend," Chloe said before she started to sing.
Clark smiled at her.
"We've always bee the best of friends, no secrets and no demands.
But suddenly from somewhere out of the blue, I see a different light around you.
One thing I haven't told you, I just want to hold you, never let go."
"Wow! You're right, she has a beautiful voice," Lana exclaimed.
"I need to know. How do I get there from here? How do I make you see?
How do I tell you what my heart's been tellin' me?
Lost in your lovin' arms, that's where I wanna be.
Somebody tell me, how do I get there?"
Clark watched Chloe with an intense look of love. He realized the meaning of the words and knew why she had picked the song.
"The shortest distance between two points is a straight line,
But I'll climb any mountain that you want me to climb.
The perfect combination is your heart and mine, darlin' won't you give me a sign?"
"Clark, you have one great girlfriend," Lex said.
"I'm not even going to address that comment," Lana said never taking her eyes off of Chloe.
Clark laughed. "I agree with you, Lex."
"How do I get there from here? How do I make you see?
How do I tell you what my heart's been tellin' me?
Lost in your lovin' arms, that's where I wanna be.
You know I love you, how do I get there from here?
You know I love you, how do I get there?"
The club exploded in applause when Chloe finished singing. Chloe sat down and Clark pulled her close.
"That was amazing, Chlo," Clark said.
"Chloe, I'm speechless," Lana said.
"I never knew you could sing," Lex replied.
"I'm not that good," Chloe said, embarrassed by all the attention.
"Will you sing a song with me?" Lana asked Chloe.
"What song?" Chloe questioned back.
"I don't know, let's go pick one out."
"Alright," Chloe said letting Lana lead her away.
"She really loves you, Clark," Lex said.
"I know. Every time I get nervous about asking her to marry me she does something like that. Then, I am reminded that she loves me just as much as I love her, if not more, and I'm not afraid anymore."
"We have got to be the two luckiest guys," Lex said.
"Look at them up there. They look so happy," Clark said watching the girls laugh over the list of songs.
"I wouldn't trade our friendships for anything," Lex told Clark.
"Me either."
"They look like they were born pop stars," Lex said watching the girls get on the stage and start to sing. "The way they sing you'd think they did this every day."
Chloe:
"I never win first place, I don't support the team, I can't take direction,
and my socks are never clean."
Lana:
"Teachers dated me, my parents hated me.
I was always in a fight, 'cause I can't do nothin' right."
Chloe:
"Everyday I fight a war against the mirror,
I can't take the person staring back at me…"
Lana/Chloe:
"I'm a hazard to myself. Don't let me get me,
I'm my own worst enemy, it's bad when you annoy yourself.
So, irritating, don't wanna be my friend no more
Wanna be somebody else."
Chloe:
"L.A. told me, "You'll be a pop star, all you have to change,
is everything you are.
I'm tired of being compared to damn Britney Spears,
She's so pretty, that just ain't me."
Lana:
"Doctor, Doctor, won't you please prescribe me somethin'
a day I the life of someone else, I'm a hazard to myself."
Chloe:
"Don't let me get me,
I'm my own worst enemy, it's bad when you annoy yourself.
So, irritating, don't wanna be my friend no more
I wanna be somebody else."
Lana:
"Don't let me get me,
I'm my own worst enemy, it's bad when you annoy yourself.
So, irritating, don't wanna be my friend no more
I wanna be somebody else."
Chloe/Lana:
"Doctor, Doctor, won't you please prescribe me somethin'
a day I the life of someone else, don't let me get me."
When the girls finished singing the last note they burst out laughing. They gave each other a high five, linked arms and walked back to the table. Clark and Lex were laughing as the girls sat on their laps.
"That was so much fun," Lana said looking at Chloe.
"It's bad when you annoy yourself," Chloe and Lana sang before erupting into a second round of laughter.
"You guys should sing a song," Lana urged.
"I don't think so," Clark replied.
"Why not?" Chloe whined.
"Luthors don't sing," Lex said matter-of-fact.
"Alexander! You can't use your name to get yourself out of this one," Lana said.
Lex lifted one eyebrow at Lana and Chloe and Clark laughed.
"What is your of-so-clever reason, Clark" Chloe asked.
"I'm losing my voice," Clark whispered pointing at his throat.
"I'll make you lose your voice," Chloe said menacingly. He kissed Clark making his eyes go wide.
"God idea, Chlo" Lana said kissing Lex.
After a few minutes of kissing they all pulled back.
"You girls are certainly in good spirits," Lex said.
"I think it was the naps," Lana said.
"They gave us extra energy," Chloe agreed.
"You should nap more often," Clark said trying to make Chloe blush.
"Only if I'm napping with you," Chloe said in a sexy tone. "Ha! I made you blush. What's the tally now?"
"Oh, you're so funny," Clark said sarcastically.
"Aren't I though?" Chloe asked looking at Lex.
"I am not going to comment on that," Lex said and Lana laughed.
"Smart guy," Lana said. "I love this song, let's all go dance."
Lex and Clark led the way onto the dance floor and held their girlfriends close.
"When the road gets dark, and you can no longer see, just let my love throw a spark,
and have a little faith in me. And when the tears you cry are all you can believe
just give these loving arms a try, and have a little faith in me."
Lana and Lex swayed to the rhythm.
"I love you, Lana," Lex said.
"I love you, too."
"Do you really?" Lex asked.
Lana looked up into his eyes. "Forever and always."
"Have little faith in me, have little faith in me,
Have little faith in me, have little faith in me."
Clark held Chloe as tight as he dared. "You're beautiful."
"Putting that Kent charm to work, huh?" Chloe teased softly.
"Only for you," Clark replied.
"Better be," Chloe said with a wink and smile.
"When your secret heart cannot speak so easily. Come here darlin'
from a whisper start to have a little faith in me,
and when your back's against the wall, just turn around and you will see,
I will catch, I will catch your fall, baby, just have a little faith in me."
"I'll always be here to love you," Lana whispered.
"And protect me?" Lex asked with a hint of sadness.
"Protect you from what?"
"From myself, so I don't become like my father."
"Always to protect you," Lana said laying her head on his chest.
"Have little faith in me, have little faith in me,
Have little faith in me, have little faith in me.
Well I've been loving you for such a long time, girl
Expecting nothing in return, just for you to have a little faith in me."
"It is, trust me," Clark said.
"Good," Chloe said decidedly. "Tell me again."
"You're beautiful."
"You see time, time is our friend, 'cause for us there is no end.
All you gotta do is have a little faith in me,
I said I will hold you up, I will hold you up
Your love gives me strength enough, so have a little faith in me."
"You could never be your father, Lex. You have a good inside of you that Lionel doesn't have," Lana explained.
"Because of you," Lex concluded.
Lana held him tighter.
"Have little faith in me, have little faith in me,
Have little faith in me, have little faith in me."
Everyone clapped when the song ended. The quartet went back to the table and Lana and Chloe reclaimed their seats on the guys' laps.
"I'm thirsty," Lana said.
"I'll get us some drinks. What does everybody want?" Clark asked.
"Martini," Lex answered.
"Same," Lana agreed.
"Coffee," Chloe replied.
Clark effortlessly lifted Chloe into his arms, stood up, and put her back into his chair before leaving to get the drinks.
"Wow, he looked like he didn't use any effort at all to pick you up," Lana said.
"I'm lighter than I look," Chloe said knowing it was a lame excuse.
Lex had his eyebrows furrowed in thought. Chloe didn't want to make Lex get back into his 'Clark's got a secret' mode. Lex had gotten over that phase years ago, and Clark didn't need Lex researching ever detail about his life again.
"Clark's pretty strong from all of the work on the farm, too," Chloe explained hoping it didn't sound like she was making excuses.
"I bet he is! Baling all that hay everyday!" Lana exclaimed.
Chloe breathed a sigh of relief when Clark came back to the table with the drinks.
"Dance with me," she demanded grabbing Clark and trying to nonchalantly pull him to the dance floor.
"What's wrong?" Clark asked.
"Look happy," Chloe demanded.
"Alright. I repeat, what's wrong?"
"You need to pay more attention what you do," Chloe said.
"What are you talking about?"
"When you picked me up a minute ago. You were using your powers without thinking about it. Lex got suspicious."
"What did he say?" Clark asked his voice almost a whisper.
"He didn't. Lana did. She said it looked like you didn't have to use any effort to pick me up, which of course you didn't."
"Why are you worried about Lex?" Clark asked confused.
"It was the look on his face. It was the look he had all those years ago whenever he found out that you'd been at the site of yet another 'accident'," Chloe exclaimed.
"What did you say?"
"I told him that I was lighter than I looked, and that you were strong from working on the farm."
"Ok."
"I'm sorry, Clark. I didn't mean to get onto you. It just scared me, that's all. I don't want Lex and Lana to find out about you until you are ready to tell them. Do you promise you'll be more careful?" Chloe said lovingly.
"Ok," Clark said a bit sadly.
"I know you hate hiding your secret, Clark. I know how much it tears you up inside. I wish there was a way for me to make it all better, but there isn't. Until you're ready to tell everyone we have to keep pretending," Chloe said.
"I know, sweetie. You're right, I'll be more careful," Clark said kissing Chloe.
When they got back to the table Lana and Lex were in the middle of a make-out session. Chloe cleared her throat to get their attention. She cleared her throat louder when they didn't show any sign of noticing her. "Lana!" Chloe yelled to get her attention.
Lana pulled back and blushed. "Hey, Chlo."
"What is with you guys today? You two never act like this," Chloe said amazed.
Lana slid off of Lex and into her own chair.
"I didn't say there was anything wrong with it, Lan. You're just acting…more like me," Chloe said with a proud grin.
"When I count to three, run," Clark said in mock fear.
"Hey—" Chloe started.
"One."
"How—"
"Two."
"Rude," Chloe finished.
"Three!" Clark yelled.
Chloe punched Clark in the arm as hard as she could. Clark grabbed his arm and pretended that Chloe had hurt him. At the same time Chloe tried to pretend that her hand didn't feel like she'd just punched a brick wall.
Lana started to laugh, but stopped abruptly. Her hand flew to her head.
"Lana…?" Lex asked putting his hand on her back.
Lana laughed nervously as her friends looked at her. "I don't feel good all of the sudden. My head hurts."
"Does your stomach hurt?" Chloe asked guessing what was wrong with her friend.
"Yes," Lana admitted.
"Come on, let's go to the bathroom," Chloe said taking Lana's arm.
They had just stepped into the bathroom when Lana rushed to the toilet to throw up. Chloe wet a paper towel and used it to wipe Lana's face.
"I'm going to tell the guys to get the limousine, I'll be right back," Chloe said.
"I don't want to ruin tonight," Lana complained.
"You're not, it's ok," Chloe said leaving.
Chloe walked back to Lex and Clark.
"Can you get the limousine? We need to get her back to the apartment," Chloe told Lex.
"Is Lana okay?" Lex asked.
"How many martinis did she drink while me and Clark were dancing?" Chloe asked.
"Two, wh--. I can't believe I forgot!" Lex said understanding what Chloe was saying.
"What?" Clark asked.
"Lana can't handle alcohol. It makes her very, very sick. She had one martini before me and you left the table, then two more after that. That means she had three martinis," Chloe explained.
"I always have a martini, so I didn't even think anything of it when Lana had another drink," Lex said.
"I'm going to go get her. Get the limousine," Chloe said before walking off.
Clark and Lex went to get the limousine as Chloe went back to the bathroom.
"Lana? The guys are getting the limousine. Can you walk?" Chloe asked her friend.
"I think," Lana answered holding her stomach.
Chloe wet a few more paper towels, before wrapping her arm around Lana's waist to support her. When they got out to the limousine Chloe climbed in first to help Lana. Lana climbed in and sat by Chloe. Chloe scooted over and took off her coat to make a pillow for Lana.
"Lay down, Lan," Chloe said.
Lana laid her head on Chloe's lap while the guys stepped into the limousine. Chloe pressed a cool paper towel to Lana's head and laid one over Lana's neck. By the time they had pulled up to the apartment Lana was asleep.
"I'll get out and you hand her to me," Lex said removing the paper towels.
"Ok," Clark agreed.
When Lex had stepped out of the limousine Clark gently lifted Lana off of Chloe's lap. Clark handed her to Lex. When she was safely in Lex's arms she moaned once before laying her head on his chest. Clark followed Chloe out of the limousine then reached for Lana. Chloe put her hand on his arm to stop him before Lex noticed.
"Let Lex take care of her, Clark," Chloe explained.
"It's just that I won't--" Clark started.
"Lex doesn't have super strength. He might get out of breath by the time we get to the apartment, and his arms will probably be hurting. He loves her, Clark. Being able to take care of her means a lot to him," Chloe explained.
"You're right, Chlo. I always feel like I should take care of everyone because of my abilities. Sometimes I don't see that they can take care of themselves just fine," Clark said wrapping his arm around Chloe's waist.
They all stepped into the waiting elevator and made their way to the apartment. Chloe unlocked the door for Lex and Lex put Lana in her bed.
"Chlo, if you'll help her change then I'll get her some aspirin," Lex said.
"Sure. I'll open the door when she's dressed," Chloe said closing the bedroom door on Lex. She walked to Lana's dresser and pulled out an oversized T-shirt. It would be the easiest to get Lana into.
Chloe went to Lana and laid the nightshirt on the bed. She raised Lana up enough to slip her shirt over her head. She picked up the nightgown and carefully eased it over Lana's head and pulled it down to her waist. She moved to Lana's feet and took off Lana's shoes and socks and laid them by the bed before slipping off Lana's pants. She pulled the shirt down around Lana's hips and covered her with the bed's white sheet. When Chloe opened the door Lex was waiting outside. Chloe moved over enough to let Lex get by. She watched with a smile as Lex gently coaxed Lana to take the medicine. He kissed her forehead gently before turning to leave.
"Chlo, let's move it," Clark shouted.
Chloe ran to Clark and jumped on him, forcing him to catch her in his arms. "I'm so excited."
Clark put her down and grabbed his key. "I'm glad."
They walked across to the parking garage and Chloe said, "How do you know which one of these cars is Lex's?"
"Look," Clark said pointing at a silver car. The license plate read: LUTHOR.
"I see," Chloe said amused.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Lana stepped out of her room to wait for Lex. When she saw him here eyes got wide.
"What?" Lex asked feeling self-conscious.
"You're wearing jeans," Lana said amazed.
"And that's bad?"
"I've never seen you in jeans. I wish I had my camera."
"I'm glad I amuse you," Lex said.
"Aww. Don't be upset, sweetie," Lana said moving to stand by Lex. "It's just a change. I like it, you look more relaxed."
"You mean less like Lex Luthor," Lex asked teasing Lana.
"No, less like Lionel Luthor," she answered.
Lex shook his head. "Let's go."
"Can I drive?" Lana asked hopefully.
"Sure, babe," Lex answered kissing her nose. "Do you have your keys?"
"Yes." Lana said as they walked into the parking garage. "Which one is yours?"
"I'll give you three guesses and the first two don't count."
"Stupid question on my part," Lana said unlocking the door of Lex's red Lamborghini. The license plate was: LX ( LTHR.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Sullivan!"
"Hey, Christine," Chloe said to the girl at the front desk.
"Who is your handsome friend?"
"This is Clark Kent, love of my life," Chloe said laughing from the expected blush from Clark. She reached over and held Clark's hand.
"Everyone will be happy to see you. Go on back," Christine said with a smile.
"Thanks," Chloe called pulling Clark through the main door. She led him into a large office.
"Sullivan, I have a story for you," said the man behind the wooden desk.
Chloe laughed. "You wish. Clark this is Perry White, editor of the Planet. Perry, Clark Kent."
"You want a story Kent?" Perry asked.
"Chloe's the reporter, not me. I'm just along for the ride," Clark said.
"It's a fast ride with Sullivan," Perry said.
"Don't flatter me," Chloe said rolling her eyes.
"What have you been up to lately?"
"Most of my time is spent in college. I'm working on a journalism major. I'm trying to convince Clark, here, to join our ranks. So far I've got him enrolled in a few of my classes."
"Well, Kent you're working with the best Metropolis has to offer."
"I believe it," Clark said proudly, wrapping his arm around Chloe's waist.
"I'm going to introduce Clark to the team," Chloe said.
"Good idea. They're all here, and they'll be glad to see you. Can I count on you this summer?" Perry asked.
"You bet," Chloe answered.
When they walked into the main office area they were greeted by a whole group of people.
"Sullivan!" "Hey!" "C.S.!" "Look who's here!" "Long time no see." "Hi!"
"Hi everybody. Clark this is Bryan Thomas, Cynthia Newland, Valerie Gin, Chris Fetters, Caleb Summers, and Tiffany Leiwer. Everybody, this is Clark Kent."
"Are you one of Chloe's friends from Smallville?" Cynthia asked.
"Actually, he's my boyfriend from Smallville," Chloe explained.
"But I thought we were dating," Caleb teased.
"In your dreams, Cale," Chloe answered back.
"C.S. since you're here will you help me with this story. It won't take long," Tiffany asked.
"Sure, Tiff. Give me a minute, okay?"
"Sure."
"This should only take a second, Clark. You can sit over here to wait," Chloe said leading him to an empty desk. The gold nameplate read: CHLOE SULLIVAN.
"You have your own desk? But you're only here during the summer," Clark said confused.
"What can I say? They love me," Chloe answered with a wink. "Be right back."
Clark watched as Chloe leaned over Tiffany's computer and starting talking to her friend. Chloe was definitely in her element.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
"You can have your pick of any horse you see," Lex said gesturing at the stable full of horses.
"That's a tough choice," Lana said walking to each horse. "This one's beautiful." She pointed to a mare with tan fur and blond mane and tail. It was appropriately named Butter.
"Here's a harness and lead rope. We can tie them up outside to put the saddles on," Lex said handing her the items.
Lex chose a black stallion and harnessed him while Lana harnessed the mare. They lead their horses outside and tied them up.
"The tack room with the saddles in it is over there," Lex said pointing,
They chose their saddles, brushed down the horses, then put the saddles on them.
"Let's ride," Lana said giving Lex a kiss.
"We don't have to," Lex said holding on to her tiny waist.
Lana rolled her eyes and climbed onto her horse. She turned the mare easily and settled herself into its trot with Lex close behind. They rode almost half an hour without stopping or talking. They both knew the value of silence. Lex slowed his horse next to a stream and climbed down. When Lana stopped he lifted her off of her horse. They let the horses graze as Lex and Lana settled themselves in the grass. Lex laid back and Lana curled up beside him with her head on his shoulder.
"So, this week…good idea?" Lex asked lazily.
"Oh, yeah," Lana said.
"Good."
"You know what?" Lana asked propping herself up on her elbows so she could look into Lex's piercing blue/green eyes.
"What?"
"I'm Lana Lang and you're Lex Luthor and you're mine. Lex Luthor is mine," Lana said happily.
Lex laughed and kissed Lana on the nose. "I thought we established that about a year ago."
"Don't laugh. It's just that a year ago I thought you'd never feel the way that I felt about you. Now you do, and I still have to convince myself that you're really here," Lana explained.
"I'm here, and I'll always be here," Lex said.
"Mmm…" Lana said sleepily laying her head on Lex's chest and draping her arm across his stomach.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Chloe finished helping Tiffany, walked back to Clark, and sat on his lap.
"So, not that I'm not glad, but what brings you to Metropolis?" Chris asked.
"It's me and Clark's one year anniversary in a few days. It's also our friends Lex and Lana's anniversary. So, Lex brought us all down here for to stay in his apartment for a week," Chloe explained.
"Your friend Lex must be pretty rich to own an apartment in Metropolis that's big enough for four people," Bryan commented.
"You could say that. Our friend is Lex Luthor," Chloe said hesitantly afraid of what her colleagues would think.
"Lex Luthor! Yeah, I'd say he's rich," Caleb threw out.
"Can I meet him?" Valerie asked.
"Lex and Clark have been best friends for years, and I'll see what I can do, Val," Chloe explained.
"Best friends with Lex Luthor, that's got to be hard to accomplish," Valerie said.
"He is Lex Luthor, but the only thing that makes him different from any of us is that he has a lot of money. He has the same emotions, the same worries," Clark said defending Lex.
"We didn't mean to be rude," Cynthia said.
"It's just that most people have formed their own opinions about Lex because of his father. He is nothing like his father," Clark continued.
"Like I said Lex and Clark are best friends. Clark knows Lex better than anyone, and frequently finds himself standing up for him when Lex isn't around," Chloe explained.
"We meant no disrespect," Bryan said sincerely.
"I know, we didn't mean to imply that you did. Talking about Lex puts us on the defensive pretty quickly. I know you guys didn't mean anything," Chloe said with a smile, leaning back against Clark.
"You two look so happy," Cynthia said.
"That's probably because we are," Chloe answered.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Lana opened her eyes and blinked a few times. She looked at her watch.
"Lex. Wake up. We fell asleep," Lana said gently shaking Lex.
"What time is it?" Lex asked groggily.
"Six thirty. We slept for two hours," Lana said with a yawn.
"Well, I'm glad we decided to put on sunscreen before our ride or we'd be in a lot of pain," Lex commented sitting up.
Lana laughed. "We have half an hour to get the horses back. I'm surprised that they didn't walk away."
Lex lifted Lana onto her mare before mounting his stallion.
"We can't say that we didn't have a relaxing afternoon," Lana said.
"You're right about that," Lex said a little distant.
"It's okay, Lex. Really," Lana assured him.
"I had great plans for today," Lex said.
"We have four more days for great plans, sweetie. Don't worry."
"Thank you, babe."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * "We have to go," Chloe said hopping off of Clark's lap.
"Come back soon." "We'll miss you!" "Tell Lex I said hi!" "Bye!" "Call soon!" "Later!"
"I will call everyone in the next couple of days, maybe we can all get together. I'd really like for everyone to meet Lex and Lana. I know you'll love them," Chloe said leaving the offices.
"What do you want to do next?" Clark asked when they got outside.
Chloe looked at her watch before answering. "It's five. We have two hours at the least before Lex and Lana are due back at the apartment."
"And…" Clark urged her to continue.
"And that means two hours to have the apartment, pool, and hot tub to ourselves."
"Then what are we waiting for?" Clark asked putting the Porsche into drive.
At the apartment Chloe changed into her bright blue bikini. She walked past the hot tub to the pool, put down her towel, and gracefully dove in. Clark came in a second later. He dove under the water and started swimming laps around Chloe. She had a hard time seeing him because of his speed. She laughed as she was caught in the whirlpool Clark made around her.
"Clark!" Chloe yelled.
Clark was out of the water not a second later. "Did I hurt you?" he asked worried.
Chloe's answer was a kiss. "I'll take that as a no," Clark said.
Chloe dove under the water and swam to the other side of the pool. When she came up she stuck her tongue out at Clark.
"I'll get you," Clark said swimming after her.
Chloe swam the opposite way laughing. She was pulled under when a hand grabbed her ankle. Chloe turned under the water and pushed against Clark's chest. Like she had anticipated he didn't even move a centimeter. Chloe came up to catch her breath and think of her next move. Before she could focus her train of thought Clark grabbed her and threw her high into the air. She was barely able to touch the ceiling before she flew to the other end of the pool where Clark caught her. Chloe wrapped her legs around Clark's waist and proceeded to kiss him. She gasped when he started to spin using all of his speed. He spun so fast that a wall of water surrounded them.
Chloe was exhausted by the time she and Clark got out of the pool. They had over almost two hours before they had to leave for the club so they both took showers and put on their most comfortable clothes. Clark was lying on the couch when Chloe came out of her room.
"Scoot over," she commanded. When he did she lay down beside him.
When Lex and Lana came in Clark and Chloe were asleep.
"Looks like we weren't the only ones that were tired," Lex said looking at his sleeping friends. Clark was laying on his back and Chloe had an arm and leg thrown over him.
"I better wake them up. We have to leave in half an hour," Lana said.
"Alright."
"Clark? You need to wake up. We have to leave in half an hour," Lana whispered.
"Thanks, Lan," Clark said sleepily. He kissed Chloe on the forehead before gently waking her up.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Author's Note: The song Chloe sings is How Do I Get There? It belongs to Deana Carter. Chloe and Lana sing Don't Let Me Get Me which belongs to Pink. The song the quartet dances to is Have A Little Faith In Me, it belongs to John Hiatt.
"My turn," Chloe said walking up on stage.
"Chloe can sing?" Lana asked.
"Like an angel," Clark replied.
"You think you know a person," Lex said with a smile.
"I want to dedicate this song to my best friend who is also my boyfriend," Chloe said before she started to sing.
Clark smiled at her.
"We've always bee the best of friends, no secrets and no demands.
But suddenly from somewhere out of the blue, I see a different light around you.
One thing I haven't told you, I just want to hold you, never let go."
"Wow! You're right, she has a beautiful voice," Lana exclaimed.
"I need to know. How do I get there from here? How do I make you see?
How do I tell you what my heart's been tellin' me?
Lost in your lovin' arms, that's where I wanna be.
Somebody tell me, how do I get there?"
Clark watched Chloe with an intense look of love. He realized the meaning of the words and knew why she had picked the song.
"The shortest distance between two points is a straight line,
But I'll climb any mountain that you want me to climb.
The perfect combination is your heart and mine, darlin' won't you give me a sign?"
"Clark, you have one great girlfriend," Lex said.
"I'm not even going to address that comment," Lana said never taking her eyes off of Chloe.
Clark laughed. "I agree with you, Lex."
"How do I get there from here? How do I make you see?
How do I tell you what my heart's been tellin' me?
Lost in your lovin' arms, that's where I wanna be.
You know I love you, how do I get there from here?
You know I love you, how do I get there?"
The club exploded in applause when Chloe finished singing. Chloe sat down and Clark pulled her close.
"That was amazing, Chlo," Clark said.
"Chloe, I'm speechless," Lana said.
"I never knew you could sing," Lex replied.
"I'm not that good," Chloe said, embarrassed by all the attention.
"Will you sing a song with me?" Lana asked Chloe.
"What song?" Chloe questioned back.
"I don't know, let's go pick one out."
"Alright," Chloe said letting Lana lead her away.
"She really loves you, Clark," Lex said.
"I know. Every time I get nervous about asking her to marry me she does something like that. Then, I am reminded that she loves me just as much as I love her, if not more, and I'm not afraid anymore."
"We have got to be the two luckiest guys," Lex said.
"Look at them up there. They look so happy," Clark said watching the girls laugh over the list of songs.
"I wouldn't trade our friendships for anything," Lex told Clark.
"Me either."
"They look like they were born pop stars," Lex said watching the girls get on the stage and start to sing. "The way they sing you'd think they did this every day."
Chloe:
"I never win first place, I don't support the team, I can't take direction,
and my socks are never clean."
Lana:
"Teachers dated me, my parents hated me.
I was always in a fight, 'cause I can't do nothin' right."
Chloe:
"Everyday I fight a war against the mirror,
I can't take the person staring back at me…"
Lana/Chloe:
"I'm a hazard to myself. Don't let me get me,
I'm my own worst enemy, it's bad when you annoy yourself.
So, irritating, don't wanna be my friend no more
Wanna be somebody else."
Chloe:
"L.A. told me, "You'll be a pop star, all you have to change,
is everything you are.
I'm tired of being compared to damn Britney Spears,
She's so pretty, that just ain't me."
Lana:
"Doctor, Doctor, won't you please prescribe me somethin'
a day I the life of someone else, I'm a hazard to myself."
Chloe:
"Don't let me get me,
I'm my own worst enemy, it's bad when you annoy yourself.
So, irritating, don't wanna be my friend no more
I wanna be somebody else."
Lana:
"Don't let me get me,
I'm my own worst enemy, it's bad when you annoy yourself.
So, irritating, don't wanna be my friend no more
I wanna be somebody else."
Chloe/Lana:
"Doctor, Doctor, won't you please prescribe me somethin'
a day I the life of someone else, don't let me get me."
When the girls finished singing the last note they burst out laughing. They gave each other a high five, linked arms and walked back to the table. Clark and Lex were laughing as the girls sat on their laps.
"That was so much fun," Lana said looking at Chloe.
"It's bad when you annoy yourself," Chloe and Lana sang before erupting into a second round of laughter.
"You guys should sing a song," Lana urged.
"I don't think so," Clark replied.
"Why not?" Chloe whined.
"Luthors don't sing," Lex said matter-of-fact.
"Alexander! You can't use your name to get yourself out of this one," Lana said.
Lex lifted one eyebrow at Lana and Chloe and Clark laughed.
"What is your of-so-clever reason, Clark" Chloe asked.
"I'm losing my voice," Clark whispered pointing at his throat.
"I'll make you lose your voice," Chloe said menacingly. He kissed Clark making his eyes go wide.
"God idea, Chlo" Lana said kissing Lex.
After a few minutes of kissing they all pulled back.
"You girls are certainly in good spirits," Lex said.
"I think it was the naps," Lana said.
"They gave us extra energy," Chloe agreed.
"You should nap more often," Clark said trying to make Chloe blush.
"Only if I'm napping with you," Chloe said in a sexy tone. "Ha! I made you blush. What's the tally now?"
"Oh, you're so funny," Clark said sarcastically.
"Aren't I though?" Chloe asked looking at Lex.
"I am not going to comment on that," Lex said and Lana laughed.
"Smart guy," Lana said. "I love this song, let's all go dance."
Lex and Clark led the way onto the dance floor and held their girlfriends close.
"When the road gets dark, and you can no longer see, just let my love throw a spark,
and have a little faith in me. And when the tears you cry are all you can believe
just give these loving arms a try, and have a little faith in me."
Lana and Lex swayed to the rhythm.
"I love you, Lana," Lex said.
"I love you, too."
"Do you really?" Lex asked.
Lana looked up into his eyes. "Forever and always."
"Have little faith in me, have little faith in me,
Have little faith in me, have little faith in me."
Clark held Chloe as tight as he dared. "You're beautiful."
"Putting that Kent charm to work, huh?" Chloe teased softly.
"Only for you," Clark replied.
"Better be," Chloe said with a wink and smile.
"When your secret heart cannot speak so easily. Come here darlin'
from a whisper start to have a little faith in me,
and when your back's against the wall, just turn around and you will see,
I will catch, I will catch your fall, baby, just have a little faith in me."
"I'll always be here to love you," Lana whispered.
"And protect me?" Lex asked with a hint of sadness.
"Protect you from what?"
"From myself, so I don't become like my father."
"Always to protect you," Lana said laying her head on his chest.
"Have little faith in me, have little faith in me,
Have little faith in me, have little faith in me.
Well I've been loving you for such a long time, girl
Expecting nothing in return, just for you to have a little faith in me."
"It is, trust me," Clark said.
"Good," Chloe said decidedly. "Tell me again."
"You're beautiful."
"You see time, time is our friend, 'cause for us there is no end.
All you gotta do is have a little faith in me,
I said I will hold you up, I will hold you up
Your love gives me strength enough, so have a little faith in me."
"You could never be your father, Lex. You have a good inside of you that Lionel doesn't have," Lana explained.
"Because of you," Lex concluded.
Lana held him tighter.
"Have little faith in me, have little faith in me,
Have little faith in me, have little faith in me."
Everyone clapped when the song ended. The quartet went back to the table and Lana and Chloe reclaimed their seats on the guys' laps.
"I'm thirsty," Lana said.
"I'll get us some drinks. What does everybody want?" Clark asked.
"Martini," Lex answered.
"Same," Lana agreed.
"Coffee," Chloe replied.
Clark effortlessly lifted Chloe into his arms, stood up, and put her back into his chair before leaving to get the drinks.
"Wow, he looked like he didn't use any effort at all to pick you up," Lana said.
"I'm lighter than I look," Chloe said knowing it was a lame excuse.
Lex had his eyebrows furrowed in thought. Chloe didn't want to make Lex get back into his 'Clark's got a secret' mode. Lex had gotten over that phase years ago, and Clark didn't need Lex researching ever detail about his life again.
"Clark's pretty strong from all of the work on the farm, too," Chloe explained hoping it didn't sound like she was making excuses.
"I bet he is! Baling all that hay everyday!" Lana exclaimed.
Chloe breathed a sigh of relief when Clark came back to the table with the drinks.
"Dance with me," she demanded grabbing Clark and trying to nonchalantly pull him to the dance floor.
"What's wrong?" Clark asked.
"Look happy," Chloe demanded.
"Alright. I repeat, what's wrong?"
"You need to pay more attention what you do," Chloe said.
"What are you talking about?"
"When you picked me up a minute ago. You were using your powers without thinking about it. Lex got suspicious."
"What did he say?" Clark asked his voice almost a whisper.
"He didn't. Lana did. She said it looked like you didn't have to use any effort to pick me up, which of course you didn't."
"Why are you worried about Lex?" Clark asked confused.
"It was the look on his face. It was the look he had all those years ago whenever he found out that you'd been at the site of yet another 'accident'," Chloe exclaimed.
"What did you say?"
"I told him that I was lighter than I looked, and that you were strong from working on the farm."
"Ok."
"I'm sorry, Clark. I didn't mean to get onto you. It just scared me, that's all. I don't want Lex and Lana to find out about you until you are ready to tell them. Do you promise you'll be more careful?" Chloe said lovingly.
"Ok," Clark said a bit sadly.
"I know you hate hiding your secret, Clark. I know how much it tears you up inside. I wish there was a way for me to make it all better, but there isn't. Until you're ready to tell everyone we have to keep pretending," Chloe said.
"I know, sweetie. You're right, I'll be more careful," Clark said kissing Chloe.
When they got back to the table Lana and Lex were in the middle of a make-out session. Chloe cleared her throat to get their attention. She cleared her throat louder when they didn't show any sign of noticing her. "Lana!" Chloe yelled to get her attention.
Lana pulled back and blushed. "Hey, Chlo."
"What is with you guys today? You two never act like this," Chloe said amazed.
Lana slid off of Lex and into her own chair.
"I didn't say there was anything wrong with it, Lan. You're just acting…more like me," Chloe said with a proud grin.
"When I count to three, run," Clark said in mock fear.
"Hey—" Chloe started.
"One."
"How—"
"Two."
"Rude," Chloe finished.
"Three!" Clark yelled.
Chloe punched Clark in the arm as hard as she could. Clark grabbed his arm and pretended that Chloe had hurt him. At the same time Chloe tried to pretend that her hand didn't feel like she'd just punched a brick wall.
Lana started to laugh, but stopped abruptly. Her hand flew to her head.
"Lana…?" Lex asked putting his hand on her back.
Lana laughed nervously as her friends looked at her. "I don't feel good all of the sudden. My head hurts."
"Does your stomach hurt?" Chloe asked guessing what was wrong with her friend.
"Yes," Lana admitted.
"Come on, let's go to the bathroom," Chloe said taking Lana's arm.
They had just stepped into the bathroom when Lana rushed to the toilet to throw up. Chloe wet a paper towel and used it to wipe Lana's face.
"I'm going to tell the guys to get the limousine, I'll be right back," Chloe said.
"I don't want to ruin tonight," Lana complained.
"You're not, it's ok," Chloe said leaving.
Chloe walked back to Lex and Clark.
"Can you get the limousine? We need to get her back to the apartment," Chloe told Lex.
"Is Lana okay?" Lex asked.
"How many martinis did she drink while me and Clark were dancing?" Chloe asked.
"Two, wh--. I can't believe I forgot!" Lex said understanding what Chloe was saying.
"What?" Clark asked.
"Lana can't handle alcohol. It makes her very, very sick. She had one martini before me and you left the table, then two more after that. That means she had three martinis," Chloe explained.
"I always have a martini, so I didn't even think anything of it when Lana had another drink," Lex said.
"I'm going to go get her. Get the limousine," Chloe said before walking off.
Clark and Lex went to get the limousine as Chloe went back to the bathroom.
"Lana? The guys are getting the limousine. Can you walk?" Chloe asked her friend.
"I think," Lana answered holding her stomach.
Chloe wet a few more paper towels, before wrapping her arm around Lana's waist to support her. When they got out to the limousine Chloe climbed in first to help Lana. Lana climbed in and sat by Chloe. Chloe scooted over and took off her coat to make a pillow for Lana.
"Lay down, Lan," Chloe said.
Lana laid her head on Chloe's lap while the guys stepped into the limousine. Chloe pressed a cool paper towel to Lana's head and laid one over Lana's neck. By the time they had pulled up to the apartment Lana was asleep.
"I'll get out and you hand her to me," Lex said removing the paper towels.
"Ok," Clark agreed.
When Lex had stepped out of the limousine Clark gently lifted Lana off of Chloe's lap. Clark handed her to Lex. When she was safely in Lex's arms she moaned once before laying her head on his chest. Clark followed Chloe out of the limousine then reached for Lana. Chloe put her hand on his arm to stop him before Lex noticed.
"Let Lex take care of her, Clark," Chloe explained.
"It's just that I won't--" Clark started.
"Lex doesn't have super strength. He might get out of breath by the time we get to the apartment, and his arms will probably be hurting. He loves her, Clark. Being able to take care of her means a lot to him," Chloe explained.
"You're right, Chlo. I always feel like I should take care of everyone because of my abilities. Sometimes I don't see that they can take care of themselves just fine," Clark said wrapping his arm around Chloe's waist.
They all stepped into the waiting elevator and made their way to the apartment. Chloe unlocked the door for Lex and Lex put Lana in her bed.
"Chlo, if you'll help her change then I'll get her some aspirin," Lex said.
"Sure. I'll open the door when she's dressed," Chloe said closing the bedroom door on Lex. She walked to Lana's dresser and pulled out an oversized T-shirt. It would be the easiest to get Lana into.
Chloe went to Lana and laid the nightshirt on the bed. She raised Lana up enough to slip her shirt over her head. She picked up the nightgown and carefully eased it over Lana's head and pulled it down to her waist. She moved to Lana's feet and took off Lana's shoes and socks and laid them by the bed before slipping off Lana's pants. She pulled the shirt down around Lana's hips and covered her with the bed's white sheet. When Chloe opened the door Lex was waiting outside. Chloe moved over enough to let Lex get by. She watched with a smile as Lex gently coaxed Lana to take the medicine. He kissed her forehead gently before turning to leave.