Sorry guys it took so long for an update, but the holidays kept me too busy. Nonetheless, here's the first of the new year;)
(Btw, I hope the holidays all treated you well!)
Angels or Devils
Chapter 6
Next day...
Before the sun could mark a new day, Lex had rushed across the empty roads in his black Ferrari to embrace the busy streets of Metropolis. Anytime he chose this lightening, flashy machine it became an expression of fierce emotions, a perplexity of feelings and desires... a ride of his anger to escape the conflicted world of reality and destiny. Nothing served better than the raven car of velocity... except this time. When he had arrived in his office in Metropolis, the view of the city in front of him didn't look any better to him. He was still in a state of madness and wrath, with thoughts of Lana and his own mounting responsibilities. Lexcorp was growing and his father's insistence to merge and take over the family business was irritatingly increasing. But, Lana had somehow manage to ease the roller-coaster of pressure, allowed him to control without haste or anxiety. He saw her in his future, but now everything was different.
As he thought about the decision he had made the last night, his daze of confusion was interrupted by a stern voice, "Well, I must say, it's about time you started working. I'm glad to finally see you're in Metropolis and actually working."
Lex turned around, suppressing his surprise and looking at him with added annoyance, "Nice to see you too, father."
"Why waste time with formalities," he remarked sarcastically, edging closer to Lex's desk. He sat down in one of the plush leather chairs as he grinned in smug contentment. His eyes covered in the dark glasses, he directed his senses towards his son, "You obviously can't afford any distractions, especially when it's time to consider your future. Remember, 'We make our own fortunes and we call them fate.'"
Lex eyed his father without expression, only smirking with disregard. "Disraeli," he identified the author. "Needless to say, father, I have considered my future, which happens to be none of your business."
Lionel instantly roared with laughter, filling his office with arrogant belligerence. "Quite the contrary, son," he replied. "It has everything to do with my concerns. You carry my name and will carry its legacy, much to my dismay. Nonetheless, I will not allow your destiny go astray."
"Put your worries at ease," Lex answered through clenched teeth, gradually softening with growing confidence. "I know where I'm going, and quite frankly I'm elated I don't see you in the picture."
His father's face contorted in slight vexation, yet surprisingly changing it into amusement. "Lex, I may be blind, but I can still sense your insecurities," he contended. "Are they not a provocation of a Miss Lana Lang?"
Lex shifted in aggravation, abruptly placing his fisted hands on the desk for support as he sternly gazed directly at his father. He hated how her name rolled from his lips with careless apathy and tease, obviously attempting to try his patience. "I don't believe she's any of your concern, nor is she a provocation of anything," his voice ushered with aggressiveness. "I suggest you keep yourself out of my personal affairs."
"Lex, stop fooling yourself," Lionel edged in demand. "She is your distraction... a weakness. You've neglected all your duties because of a silly indulgement of a crush... you've allowed it to take control of all your faculties."
The future heir sighed, seemingly surrendering to his father's words. "Like I said father, ease your concerns," he reiterated as he turned to the grand window behind him, viewing the dark clouds of the city as he placed his hands in the pockets of his black pants. "Although you're wrong in all your accusations... there is nothing, personal or not, that will get in the way of my plans for the future."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Three days later...
The whole day Lana had been burying herself into C.Z.'s assignments, taking more than the usual workload. She wanted to forget about Paris, C.Z., and everything that made her groan with indecision. It had been three days since Lex and her had talked... well, at least really talked. He had called from Metropolis a few times, each being exceptionally short with each other. Still, that didn't bother her as much as the last time they had seen one another. That night, when he had given her the orchid, kept running through her mind with every second that went by... she couldn't keep Lex's eyes and words from alarming her senses. There was something in his look, in the way his demeanor spoke that didn't seem right. It scared and annoyed her at the same time.
So she allowed the stress and anxiety of fashion to elude all her thoughts.
"Lana, dear," C.Z. called as she came into the workroom. "It's eight o'clock on a Friday and you're here still working. Aren't you usually gone by six on Fridays with the young Luthor?"
Lana shifted uncomfortably as she looked through an assortment of papers, trying to ignore her employer's question without getting into the whole issue. "Not today," she uttered while she attempted to concentrate on the work on hand.
"Well, I think you should stop anyway, dear,"the Englishwoman walked towards her intern, edging near her side. As much as she enjoyed knowing that there was tension between the couple, which undoubtedly meant that Lex was suffering, she didn't think Lana deserved further aggravation. "You musn't overwork yourself when it isn't necessary... everything is in order, we're up to date in all areas. Besides, you need a break, I can tell, Lana."
"I'm fine," she replied without stopping to acknowledge her words.
C.Z. placed her hand on Lana's shoulder, insisting she cease from any further movement. "Lana," she demanded. "Go home and get some rest. I insist."
The young intern stopped from flipping through the papers... she sighed, feeling the exhaustion irking her bones, urging her to accept C.Z.'s request. "Okay," she whispered through her breath. She began picking up her things, putting her coat on and making sure nothing was forgotten. With a slight nod, she muttered a goodbye and went for the door.
Right before she stepped outside, C.Z. called from behind, "Oh and Lana, don't forget... I'm expecting an answer from you by tomorrow. In fact, why don't you come by... say around four?"
God, for a few seconds it had completely slipped her mind. C.Z. had said by the end of the week... tomorrow was it and she still had no answer. Her eyes roamed vicariously as the sudden urgency of the decision hit her. "Um... I don't," she stammered as she finally caught the British broad's eyes which stared at her expectantly and unyieldingly. "Yes... four is fine."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The next morning Lana rose as early as six. The sun hadn't even rose before she had her gear on and was riding her horse. She hoped the wind breezing through her hair, the thrill of freedom rushing through her veins could unearth the answers inside of her. Relentlessly, she urged the brown stallion under her to unleash its speed, exhort its rapid prowess.
Not far, a different sort of horsepower ran in increasing velocity... hoping to get the same effects, Lex had pressed the accelerator without any inhibitions, anger swelling inside for release. Smallville was welcoming Lex with empty streets, providing him with room to vent. As he surged through the open roads, he saw the nearing acres of land where Lana road her horse. He slowed his pace, admiring the fenced area that reminded of her... the girl who had managed to steal all his control, thoughts... and heart. The grass certainly seemed greener on that side.
Suddenly, as Lex was about step on the pedal, he noticed from the corner of his eye a rushing shadow. Stopping the Ferrari, he slipped off his sunglasses and took a closer look... and finally there she was, Smallville's princess in a world of her own. Lex parked the car and stepped off it, making his way smoothly towards the fence. He set his arms on the wooden barrier and patiently gazed at her, reveling in her brisk ride.
Meanwhile, Lana had no idea the town's wealthiest businessman was watching her. She continued to lose herself, but soon felt that her horse could not brush the exhaustion any longer. Slowly, she eased her horse to decrease his speed... as she did, Lana caught a glimpse of the glimmering blackness of the Ferrari. There was only one person in Smallville who owned that car, she automatically knew Lex was there. She detained the horse to stillness and looked around for the handsome Luthor who held her heart. Finally, she found him.
Their eyes found each other... both staring at one another with strange longing and fearful intentions. Lana wanted to run to him, bury herself into his arms, but the cold exuding from his presence warded her off. Reluctantly, she tapped the sides of the horse, commanding him to walk toward the motionless figure.
"Hey," she whispered barely, smiling slightly. "You're back."
Lex nodded, "Just in time for the big decision."
Lana furrowed her eyebrows, feeling the sudden tension amount. She expertly slid off her horse, tying it to the fence quickly. Turning her attention to Lex, she awkwardly agreed, "Yeah, I guess... I mean, I haven't actually decided anything yet, but C.Z. is expecting an answer by four today."
"So, what's it going to be," he questioned her. "The uninhibited city of love or the fast-track bustle of Metropolis? Equally attractive, I guess."
What the hell was going on? She hadn't even decided anything and he was already acting like things between them were doomed. Lana sighed, trying to suppress her frustrations from becoming audible venting. "Lex," she attempted to catch his gaze. "This isn't easy for me... I keep thinking Paris will be a great opportunity, but my heart keeps telling me to go to Metropolis and stay with you..." She neared him, beckoning for his understanding as she caressed the side of his face gently. "Seeing you here, I think I've finally decided," Lana divulged, finally catching his stare. "I'm going to follow my heart."
There was no doubt he had every desire to kiss and embrace her, tell her again and again how much he loved her. Yet, how Lex-like would that be? No, he couldn't tell her that... nor anything like that. He pulled away from her, gazing at her expressionlessly, "Lana, perhaps you should reconsider."
"Reconsider?" She looked at him with surprise. "Lex, I'm choosing us... I'm choosing you... because I love you. Why are you pushing me away?"
He had to this, he told himself repeatedly. He had to remain in control and try to look at Lana in the eye and get this over with. "Lana," his business tone evident. "Studying in Paris and working with C.Z. is an opportunity, a chance of a lifetime. You shouldn't refuse it only to one day regret it."
Lana shook her head, "Lex... I know what you're trying to do and that's sweet and all... but I know this is the right decision... it feels right because I know I'll be with you. I'm not going to run from love."
Lex refused to warm up to her reasoning... he knew what he had to do and as much as he hated it, he had to do it. "Are you really running from love?" The question hung in the air, zeroing into Lana's consciousness. "I mean, is what we have really love?"
"Lex..." Suddenly, she felt numb, her heart beating ten times faster. She couldn't believe what she was hearing.
"Think about it, Lana... is this love? I think the most it could be is a mere infatuation or a business transaction taking a different route," he continued his facade of indifference, accentuating his normal conceit.
Her eyes widened with surprise as she swallowed nervously, "What are you saying, Lex? That I was right... you were just indulging an eighteen year old girl?"
Lex shook his head, grinning to hide his real feelings, to conceal his desire to tell her he needed her. "No, you're wrong. I just think our relationship isn't something we should consider a defining acquisition in our lives," he stated deliberately. "It's not something that should hold any of us back."
Lana looked down, finding this all too incredible. She felt as if she had been stripped of all her dignity, believing in a lie all this time. With anger and hurt constricting her heart, she lifted her head, biting her lips to keep the tears from falling, "An 'acquisition'?" Her small hollow laughter wavered as she eyed Lex with contempt. She untied the rope, mounted the horse and then looked at him, letting the seconds travel through tense waters. "I can't believe I was so stupid.... I actually thought you weren't like your father... that you were somewhat human, but clearly I was wrong yet again." With that, Lana rode off, leaving really no trails to follow for Lex.
He knew she was furious and completely heartbroken. But, he knew this was the right thing to do for both of them... as much as he was hurting, too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A week later...
Lex sat in his office, idly looking at his laptop. He missed her in spite himself, and he hated to admit it, especially as much as he told himself it was the right thing to do.
"I hope I'm not interrupting anything," a familiar voice invaded Lex's thoughts.
Lex looked up, suddenly relieved by a friendly face. "Clark," he stood up, walking towards his long time crony. "What are you doing here? I thought Metropolis was going to keep you for the whole summer."
"Oh it is," he smiled. "But, I'm here... to say goodbye to Lana and take her to the airport." He cleared his throat, feeling a little awkward about the situation.
"Oh," Lex nodded, making his way to a drink. "So how are things at the University?"
"Everything's fine," he replied. "Lex, I know that you and Lana aren't together anymore, but-"
"Clark," he interrupted, knowing where this was leading to. "I don't think this is one of those issues we should dwell on."
"Hear me out, Lex," Clark insisted. "For whatever reason you guys decided to end things, I think you still owe her the decency to at least give her a call and say goodbye."
"That's out of the question," he remarked as he indulged in his drink.
"Lex, you were friends first... give her your best wishes as friends. That's all I'm saying," Clark concluded, hoping the obviously love-struck Luthor would give in.
He took another sip from his glass as he considered his friend's request. "I'll think about it," he answered with his infamous indifference.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Clark waited for Lana as she checked in her bags at the desk. The entire ride over to the airport was a strange journey filled with small talk and many awkward silences. He couldn't get Lana talking, but he had expected as much. It was pretty clear that she hadn't been the initiator of the break up and was the true victim. Then again, he always had this feeling, ever since they had gotten together, that Lex would hurt her. But when he had finally seen them with each other, he was amazed at how good they were for one another, and suddenly he forgot about that suspicion. He should have warned Lana, still he didn't know the full story. "Something doesn't seem right," he muttered to himself.
"What doesn't," a voice startled Clark.
"Lex," he was surprise to see he actually showed up. "You came."
"Yeah, well, I considered what you said and I realized you were right," Lex admitted.
"Just in time... Lana's plane leaves in less than fifteen minutes," he explained.
"Where is she," he questioned before he turn around and search for her.
"I'm right here," Lana appeared suddenly behind him. "What are you doing here?"
Lex turned to her with icy conceit abruptly apparent. "I just wanted to bid you bon voyage. Hope that everything goes well," he smiled devilishly. "Well, I have to run, I have a business meeting to attend to... so goodbye and please give my regards to C.Z." He had to leave, it was becoming unbearable to look at her without being able to kiss her. He was dying inside, remorse and a sudden aching pulling his heart apart.
Lex began walking away when he felt a strong arm detain his steps, "Lex, wait."
"Clark, I have to go," he demanded.
"Just wait here... give me a minute before you leave," he protested, urging his best friend to remain still.
"Fine," Lex slightly rolled his eyes and adhered to his crony's request.
Clark immediately returned to Lana's side, walking her to her gate. "Lana, he didn't mean to be that rude," he attempted to justify Lex's actions.
She sighed, frustrated and angered by her former beau's attitude, "Clark... it's alright... it doesn't matter. Honestly, I'm over it... just tell me that you'll tell Chloe and Pete that I'll miss them a lot."
"I will," he promised, sadly looking onto his old crush. "And we'll all miss you, Lana. But, we'll all being hoping the best for you in Paris. I know you'll have fun and meet lots of great people."
"Thanks, Clark," Lana hugged him, appreciating the comfort of his sincerity and care. "Well, I gotta go. But, before I leave, can you do me a favor?"
"Anything," he replied.
"Can you give this to Lex and tell him... just tell him I say bye," she handed him a rectangular box, hugged him again and walked towards her gate.
Clark waved goodbye as she went inside. He quickly made his way back to Lex who impatiently awaited his return. "Lex, I'm glad you're still here."
"Clark, make it quick... I wasn't lying when I said I had a meeting," he retorted as he began walking outside.
"Just stop," he demanded as he grabbed his arm, forcing Lex to face him. "Go after her... you know you want to... you know you should."
He looked menacingly and darkly at Clark's hold and then directed his death ray gaze at his old friend. "I don't chase after anyone," he said through clenched teeth as he rashly pulled away from his grasp.
Clark shook his head, disappointed in Lex. "Wait! She told me to give you this," he handed him the box. "You know, if I had known you were going to be that cold with her, I would have never insisted you be here. Honestly, Lex, what was it that she saw in you?" Clark hastened his pace past Lex and onto his truck.
"Clark," Lex called as he managed to get his friend's attention. "I didn't mean to be that way... it's... it's complicated."
"It always is," with that Clark reluctantly nodded, signaling his understanding as he started his truck and left.
Lex soon shifted his gaze from the red truck to the box he held. He opened it and felt his heart fall within. Therein laid the dress Lex had bought for her on the day he had finally had the courage to say 'I love you.' On top of it was the orchid, wilting in melancholy fashion. The purity and beauty it held were fading... fading just like them.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~
I know, I know... it's an angsty downer. But, hey rest at ease, this story isn't finished yet;) Just keep those reviews coming and we'll get through this ^.^
(Btw, I hope the holidays all treated you well!)
Angels or Devils
Chapter 6
Next day...
Before the sun could mark a new day, Lex had rushed across the empty roads in his black Ferrari to embrace the busy streets of Metropolis. Anytime he chose this lightening, flashy machine it became an expression of fierce emotions, a perplexity of feelings and desires... a ride of his anger to escape the conflicted world of reality and destiny. Nothing served better than the raven car of velocity... except this time. When he had arrived in his office in Metropolis, the view of the city in front of him didn't look any better to him. He was still in a state of madness and wrath, with thoughts of Lana and his own mounting responsibilities. Lexcorp was growing and his father's insistence to merge and take over the family business was irritatingly increasing. But, Lana had somehow manage to ease the roller-coaster of pressure, allowed him to control without haste or anxiety. He saw her in his future, but now everything was different.
As he thought about the decision he had made the last night, his daze of confusion was interrupted by a stern voice, "Well, I must say, it's about time you started working. I'm glad to finally see you're in Metropolis and actually working."
Lex turned around, suppressing his surprise and looking at him with added annoyance, "Nice to see you too, father."
"Why waste time with formalities," he remarked sarcastically, edging closer to Lex's desk. He sat down in one of the plush leather chairs as he grinned in smug contentment. His eyes covered in the dark glasses, he directed his senses towards his son, "You obviously can't afford any distractions, especially when it's time to consider your future. Remember, 'We make our own fortunes and we call them fate.'"
Lex eyed his father without expression, only smirking with disregard. "Disraeli," he identified the author. "Needless to say, father, I have considered my future, which happens to be none of your business."
Lionel instantly roared with laughter, filling his office with arrogant belligerence. "Quite the contrary, son," he replied. "It has everything to do with my concerns. You carry my name and will carry its legacy, much to my dismay. Nonetheless, I will not allow your destiny go astray."
"Put your worries at ease," Lex answered through clenched teeth, gradually softening with growing confidence. "I know where I'm going, and quite frankly I'm elated I don't see you in the picture."
His father's face contorted in slight vexation, yet surprisingly changing it into amusement. "Lex, I may be blind, but I can still sense your insecurities," he contended. "Are they not a provocation of a Miss Lana Lang?"
Lex shifted in aggravation, abruptly placing his fisted hands on the desk for support as he sternly gazed directly at his father. He hated how her name rolled from his lips with careless apathy and tease, obviously attempting to try his patience. "I don't believe she's any of your concern, nor is she a provocation of anything," his voice ushered with aggressiveness. "I suggest you keep yourself out of my personal affairs."
"Lex, stop fooling yourself," Lionel edged in demand. "She is your distraction... a weakness. You've neglected all your duties because of a silly indulgement of a crush... you've allowed it to take control of all your faculties."
The future heir sighed, seemingly surrendering to his father's words. "Like I said father, ease your concerns," he reiterated as he turned to the grand window behind him, viewing the dark clouds of the city as he placed his hands in the pockets of his black pants. "Although you're wrong in all your accusations... there is nothing, personal or not, that will get in the way of my plans for the future."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Three days later...
The whole day Lana had been burying herself into C.Z.'s assignments, taking more than the usual workload. She wanted to forget about Paris, C.Z., and everything that made her groan with indecision. It had been three days since Lex and her had talked... well, at least really talked. He had called from Metropolis a few times, each being exceptionally short with each other. Still, that didn't bother her as much as the last time they had seen one another. That night, when he had given her the orchid, kept running through her mind with every second that went by... she couldn't keep Lex's eyes and words from alarming her senses. There was something in his look, in the way his demeanor spoke that didn't seem right. It scared and annoyed her at the same time.
So she allowed the stress and anxiety of fashion to elude all her thoughts.
"Lana, dear," C.Z. called as she came into the workroom. "It's eight o'clock on a Friday and you're here still working. Aren't you usually gone by six on Fridays with the young Luthor?"
Lana shifted uncomfortably as she looked through an assortment of papers, trying to ignore her employer's question without getting into the whole issue. "Not today," she uttered while she attempted to concentrate on the work on hand.
"Well, I think you should stop anyway, dear,"the Englishwoman walked towards her intern, edging near her side. As much as she enjoyed knowing that there was tension between the couple, which undoubtedly meant that Lex was suffering, she didn't think Lana deserved further aggravation. "You musn't overwork yourself when it isn't necessary... everything is in order, we're up to date in all areas. Besides, you need a break, I can tell, Lana."
"I'm fine," she replied without stopping to acknowledge her words.
C.Z. placed her hand on Lana's shoulder, insisting she cease from any further movement. "Lana," she demanded. "Go home and get some rest. I insist."
The young intern stopped from flipping through the papers... she sighed, feeling the exhaustion irking her bones, urging her to accept C.Z.'s request. "Okay," she whispered through her breath. She began picking up her things, putting her coat on and making sure nothing was forgotten. With a slight nod, she muttered a goodbye and went for the door.
Right before she stepped outside, C.Z. called from behind, "Oh and Lana, don't forget... I'm expecting an answer from you by tomorrow. In fact, why don't you come by... say around four?"
God, for a few seconds it had completely slipped her mind. C.Z. had said by the end of the week... tomorrow was it and she still had no answer. Her eyes roamed vicariously as the sudden urgency of the decision hit her. "Um... I don't," she stammered as she finally caught the British broad's eyes which stared at her expectantly and unyieldingly. "Yes... four is fine."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The next morning Lana rose as early as six. The sun hadn't even rose before she had her gear on and was riding her horse. She hoped the wind breezing through her hair, the thrill of freedom rushing through her veins could unearth the answers inside of her. Relentlessly, she urged the brown stallion under her to unleash its speed, exhort its rapid prowess.
Not far, a different sort of horsepower ran in increasing velocity... hoping to get the same effects, Lex had pressed the accelerator without any inhibitions, anger swelling inside for release. Smallville was welcoming Lex with empty streets, providing him with room to vent. As he surged through the open roads, he saw the nearing acres of land where Lana road her horse. He slowed his pace, admiring the fenced area that reminded of her... the girl who had managed to steal all his control, thoughts... and heart. The grass certainly seemed greener on that side.
Suddenly, as Lex was about step on the pedal, he noticed from the corner of his eye a rushing shadow. Stopping the Ferrari, he slipped off his sunglasses and took a closer look... and finally there she was, Smallville's princess in a world of her own. Lex parked the car and stepped off it, making his way smoothly towards the fence. He set his arms on the wooden barrier and patiently gazed at her, reveling in her brisk ride.
Meanwhile, Lana had no idea the town's wealthiest businessman was watching her. She continued to lose herself, but soon felt that her horse could not brush the exhaustion any longer. Slowly, she eased her horse to decrease his speed... as she did, Lana caught a glimpse of the glimmering blackness of the Ferrari. There was only one person in Smallville who owned that car, she automatically knew Lex was there. She detained the horse to stillness and looked around for the handsome Luthor who held her heart. Finally, she found him.
Their eyes found each other... both staring at one another with strange longing and fearful intentions. Lana wanted to run to him, bury herself into his arms, but the cold exuding from his presence warded her off. Reluctantly, she tapped the sides of the horse, commanding him to walk toward the motionless figure.
"Hey," she whispered barely, smiling slightly. "You're back."
Lex nodded, "Just in time for the big decision."
Lana furrowed her eyebrows, feeling the sudden tension amount. She expertly slid off her horse, tying it to the fence quickly. Turning her attention to Lex, she awkwardly agreed, "Yeah, I guess... I mean, I haven't actually decided anything yet, but C.Z. is expecting an answer by four today."
"So, what's it going to be," he questioned her. "The uninhibited city of love or the fast-track bustle of Metropolis? Equally attractive, I guess."
What the hell was going on? She hadn't even decided anything and he was already acting like things between them were doomed. Lana sighed, trying to suppress her frustrations from becoming audible venting. "Lex," she attempted to catch his gaze. "This isn't easy for me... I keep thinking Paris will be a great opportunity, but my heart keeps telling me to go to Metropolis and stay with you..." She neared him, beckoning for his understanding as she caressed the side of his face gently. "Seeing you here, I think I've finally decided," Lana divulged, finally catching his stare. "I'm going to follow my heart."
There was no doubt he had every desire to kiss and embrace her, tell her again and again how much he loved her. Yet, how Lex-like would that be? No, he couldn't tell her that... nor anything like that. He pulled away from her, gazing at her expressionlessly, "Lana, perhaps you should reconsider."
"Reconsider?" She looked at him with surprise. "Lex, I'm choosing us... I'm choosing you... because I love you. Why are you pushing me away?"
He had to this, he told himself repeatedly. He had to remain in control and try to look at Lana in the eye and get this over with. "Lana," his business tone evident. "Studying in Paris and working with C.Z. is an opportunity, a chance of a lifetime. You shouldn't refuse it only to one day regret it."
Lana shook her head, "Lex... I know what you're trying to do and that's sweet and all... but I know this is the right decision... it feels right because I know I'll be with you. I'm not going to run from love."
Lex refused to warm up to her reasoning... he knew what he had to do and as much as he hated it, he had to do it. "Are you really running from love?" The question hung in the air, zeroing into Lana's consciousness. "I mean, is what we have really love?"
"Lex..." Suddenly, she felt numb, her heart beating ten times faster. She couldn't believe what she was hearing.
"Think about it, Lana... is this love? I think the most it could be is a mere infatuation or a business transaction taking a different route," he continued his facade of indifference, accentuating his normal conceit.
Her eyes widened with surprise as she swallowed nervously, "What are you saying, Lex? That I was right... you were just indulging an eighteen year old girl?"
Lex shook his head, grinning to hide his real feelings, to conceal his desire to tell her he needed her. "No, you're wrong. I just think our relationship isn't something we should consider a defining acquisition in our lives," he stated deliberately. "It's not something that should hold any of us back."
Lana looked down, finding this all too incredible. She felt as if she had been stripped of all her dignity, believing in a lie all this time. With anger and hurt constricting her heart, she lifted her head, biting her lips to keep the tears from falling, "An 'acquisition'?" Her small hollow laughter wavered as she eyed Lex with contempt. She untied the rope, mounted the horse and then looked at him, letting the seconds travel through tense waters. "I can't believe I was so stupid.... I actually thought you weren't like your father... that you were somewhat human, but clearly I was wrong yet again." With that, Lana rode off, leaving really no trails to follow for Lex.
He knew she was furious and completely heartbroken. But, he knew this was the right thing to do for both of them... as much as he was hurting, too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A week later...
Lex sat in his office, idly looking at his laptop. He missed her in spite himself, and he hated to admit it, especially as much as he told himself it was the right thing to do.
"I hope I'm not interrupting anything," a familiar voice invaded Lex's thoughts.
Lex looked up, suddenly relieved by a friendly face. "Clark," he stood up, walking towards his long time crony. "What are you doing here? I thought Metropolis was going to keep you for the whole summer."
"Oh it is," he smiled. "But, I'm here... to say goodbye to Lana and take her to the airport." He cleared his throat, feeling a little awkward about the situation.
"Oh," Lex nodded, making his way to a drink. "So how are things at the University?"
"Everything's fine," he replied. "Lex, I know that you and Lana aren't together anymore, but-"
"Clark," he interrupted, knowing where this was leading to. "I don't think this is one of those issues we should dwell on."
"Hear me out, Lex," Clark insisted. "For whatever reason you guys decided to end things, I think you still owe her the decency to at least give her a call and say goodbye."
"That's out of the question," he remarked as he indulged in his drink.
"Lex, you were friends first... give her your best wishes as friends. That's all I'm saying," Clark concluded, hoping the obviously love-struck Luthor would give in.
He took another sip from his glass as he considered his friend's request. "I'll think about it," he answered with his infamous indifference.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Clark waited for Lana as she checked in her bags at the desk. The entire ride over to the airport was a strange journey filled with small talk and many awkward silences. He couldn't get Lana talking, but he had expected as much. It was pretty clear that she hadn't been the initiator of the break up and was the true victim. Then again, he always had this feeling, ever since they had gotten together, that Lex would hurt her. But when he had finally seen them with each other, he was amazed at how good they were for one another, and suddenly he forgot about that suspicion. He should have warned Lana, still he didn't know the full story. "Something doesn't seem right," he muttered to himself.
"What doesn't," a voice startled Clark.
"Lex," he was surprise to see he actually showed up. "You came."
"Yeah, well, I considered what you said and I realized you were right," Lex admitted.
"Just in time... Lana's plane leaves in less than fifteen minutes," he explained.
"Where is she," he questioned before he turn around and search for her.
"I'm right here," Lana appeared suddenly behind him. "What are you doing here?"
Lex turned to her with icy conceit abruptly apparent. "I just wanted to bid you bon voyage. Hope that everything goes well," he smiled devilishly. "Well, I have to run, I have a business meeting to attend to... so goodbye and please give my regards to C.Z." He had to leave, it was becoming unbearable to look at her without being able to kiss her. He was dying inside, remorse and a sudden aching pulling his heart apart.
Lex began walking away when he felt a strong arm detain his steps, "Lex, wait."
"Clark, I have to go," he demanded.
"Just wait here... give me a minute before you leave," he protested, urging his best friend to remain still.
"Fine," Lex slightly rolled his eyes and adhered to his crony's request.
Clark immediately returned to Lana's side, walking her to her gate. "Lana, he didn't mean to be that rude," he attempted to justify Lex's actions.
She sighed, frustrated and angered by her former beau's attitude, "Clark... it's alright... it doesn't matter. Honestly, I'm over it... just tell me that you'll tell Chloe and Pete that I'll miss them a lot."
"I will," he promised, sadly looking onto his old crush. "And we'll all miss you, Lana. But, we'll all being hoping the best for you in Paris. I know you'll have fun and meet lots of great people."
"Thanks, Clark," Lana hugged him, appreciating the comfort of his sincerity and care. "Well, I gotta go. But, before I leave, can you do me a favor?"
"Anything," he replied.
"Can you give this to Lex and tell him... just tell him I say bye," she handed him a rectangular box, hugged him again and walked towards her gate.
Clark waved goodbye as she went inside. He quickly made his way back to Lex who impatiently awaited his return. "Lex, I'm glad you're still here."
"Clark, make it quick... I wasn't lying when I said I had a meeting," he retorted as he began walking outside.
"Just stop," he demanded as he grabbed his arm, forcing Lex to face him. "Go after her... you know you want to... you know you should."
He looked menacingly and darkly at Clark's hold and then directed his death ray gaze at his old friend. "I don't chase after anyone," he said through clenched teeth as he rashly pulled away from his grasp.
Clark shook his head, disappointed in Lex. "Wait! She told me to give you this," he handed him the box. "You know, if I had known you were going to be that cold with her, I would have never insisted you be here. Honestly, Lex, what was it that she saw in you?" Clark hastened his pace past Lex and onto his truck.
"Clark," Lex called as he managed to get his friend's attention. "I didn't mean to be that way... it's... it's complicated."
"It always is," with that Clark reluctantly nodded, signaling his understanding as he started his truck and left.
Lex soon shifted his gaze from the red truck to the box he held. He opened it and felt his heart fall within. Therein laid the dress Lex had bought for her on the day he had finally had the courage to say 'I love you.' On top of it was the orchid, wilting in melancholy fashion. The purity and beauty it held were fading... fading just like them.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**~*~
I know, I know... it's an angsty downer. But, hey rest at ease, this story isn't finished yet;) Just keep those reviews coming and we'll get through this ^.^
