AN: from now on this story will be written by both chillian and me. Please review! (sorry so short, but we figure you guys would like an update sometime!!)

Chapter Three: Disaster

I don't know why Chloe offered to take me in. We were merely acquaintances, really, before we got to know each other through Clark. Then we grew to be friends -- cautiously. Most of the bumps in our friendship stemmed from Clark, one way or another. He's always there, and I doubt he could do more damage if he tried.

When Chloe offered to take me in, we were friends. Not best friends, or even good friends, but friends. I tried not to question her motives, but I did. I thought perhaps she wanted me to stay for Clark's sake. I tried to tell myself I was being ridiculous. I told myself to stop questioning, but the doubt stayed in my mind.

Sometimes I wish Chloe and I were closer friends. Other times I think things might be better the way they are. But there's one thing I know for sure: Clark's always in the way.

When I got up this morning it seemed to be a normal enough day: shower, eat breakfast, listen to Gabe and Chloe argue about Chloe's coffee intake, purposely dawdle just long enough to miss the bus, and listen to Gabe's gas- money-does-not-grow-on-trees lecture as Chloe and I head out to her car. I got to school and endured the usual small talk, boring lectures, and test- taking.

I didn't think things could go from normal to catastrophe so quickly. But maybe I should've expected it. After all, this is Smallville.