Chapter 8
"Hey," Clark said, walking into the shed behind the Ross home.
"How did you know I was here?" Pete asked, sitting against the back wall.
Clark turned on the overhead light. "X-ray vision," he answered simply.
Pete had his knees drawn up to his chest and his arms resting on his knees. "Sometimes that can be a little annoying. Like say, when someone wants to be alone to brood."
Clark sat on a cold, metal stool, facing Pete.
"I don't want to talk, Clark. I'm sorry you made the trip out here for no reason," Pete said, refusing to look at his friend.
"Just because you ignore it doesn't mean it will go away," Clark told him.
"You ignored Chloe, and she went away," Pete pointed out, finally looking up at Clark.
Clark winced. "That was low, Pete."
"You just have to give me time to think," Pete said, laying his head back against the hard wooden slats.
"What is there to think about?" Clark asked.
"I thought I had everything figured out. Then, I found out about you. Now Chloe. I don't know what's real anymore," Pete said, his brown eyes dark.
"I know you liked her, but-"
"I'm not that shallow, Clark," Pete said, his voice showing his hostility. "That makes it hurt more, but it's more than just my feelings."
"Then tell me, Pete. Let me know so I can help," Clark urged.
"You can't help, because you did exactly the same thing. You left me and Chloe for Lana, and now Chloe's left me, too," Pete said, his voice loud.
"She's still your friend. Your best friend," Clark amended.
Pete shook his head slowly. "Can you just go?"
"Pete," Clark tried one last time.
"I'm done talking."
Clark sighed and stood. "Are you still coming over tomorrow?"
"Yeah, I'll meet you in the loft," Pete answered.
"Okay, bye," Clark said. He hesitated at the door, glancing back at Pete, then left.