New Perspective: Bruised and Broken Part 2
By Saint 2 Cynic
::The Talon::
Mack parked in the alley, next to the Jeep and walked in through the side door. People were everywhere, so instead of going to the counter to talk to Lana like she had planned. Mack opted to go straight up the stairs and into the apartment.
Clark who was sitting at the counter saw Mack come in and go into the apartment. Since Lana was busy he figured he'd go visit and maybe smooth some things over.
Lana was serving drinks when she looked up and saw Clark heading up to Mack's. She paused to think about what he was up to but figuring he'd fill her in later she continued with her job.
::Knock::Knock::
Mack yelled from inside, "Come in!"
Clark walked in but since he didn't see her at first he called her name, "Mack?"
"In the bedroom!"
Clark walked through the curtain she had hung and found her going through the closet. She popped her head out to see who it was, "Oh hey Clark."
"Hey, what's up?" he took a seat in the chair near the bed.
"Looking for something to wear, you?" She looked up at him as she looked threw the clothes she had already thrown on the bed.
"Bored I guess. Lana's really busy so I figured I'd come up and visit. Is that ok?"
"Yeah, man. Feel free to do it more often."
Clark watched her in amusement as she searched for something to wear, "Umm about this afternoon.."
Mack stopped her search, leaning on the pill of clothes she looked at Clark, "No worries, I heard you and Lana try to tell off Chloe. No apology or explanation needed, I suppose I should be thanking you."
"Why?"
"Well you had every right to want to listen to whatever she found out but, you didn't," as she said it she turned her back to him and took one last look at the closet.
"Truthfully Lana was the one who really stood up for you," getting up, "You know Mack if you'd just let her in a little, she's worried about you.."
Cutting him off, " I know Clark, I know. It just feels like she's pushing me to hard. I'm not ready to let her or anyone in and I'm not use to anyone caring so much about me," looking at Clark his expression seemed to express that she had lost him, "I don't know it's hard to articulate."
"I get it," looking to change the subject, "So why all the concern for clothing?"
"Ummm.." she stood next to Clark running her hands through her hair, while surveying the scene before her. Clothes were everywhere, the West Bank was in better shape, "Lex invited me to the mansion."
Clark's eyebrows shot up. He said in a teasing tone, "OOoOoOo really?"
Hitting him in the arm, "OOoOoo nothing man. I wouldn't usually get dressed up," she searched for justification, "But well sometimes a girl….."
Turning to her grinning from ear to ear, "uh huh?"
Her eyebrows pressed to her nose, "I just feel like it. Plus it would be disrespectful to the mansion."
Still teasing her, "To the mansion, huh?"
"Yes," she looked at him through the corner of her eyes.
Through out this whole exchange Clark remembered that this is the Mack he first met. Warm,funny and so easy to be yourself with. He knew full well things weren't ok with her but he wasn't about to push her.
"Well have fun impressing the MANSION. I'll leave you to it," he walked to the door, Mack followed close behind. As he reached for the doorknob he quickly spun around, "Tomorrow after practice, you have plans?"
"Nope, why?"
"I was wondering if you wanted to try the horse again?" as he saw her eyes look to the side he moved to convince her, "Come on, I'll teach you to ride by yourself. It will be nice to get away for a few hours."
"ahh I don't know Clark," she said with dread,
"You don't have to pay gas money and I'll provide dinner," he looked at her hopefully.
"Sounding better and better but isn't this something you should do with Lana?"
"She rides all the time.. Come on.. You know you want to.." Clark tilted his head just below hers in order to catch her eyes.
"Ok, I'll be there," giving in. Mack had no desire to go out. She didn't even want to go out tonight, going out meant putting on brave face and pretending. Something she wished to avoid at all costs. But who could say no to Clark Kent.
"Awesome, see you then," he said feeling a sense of accomplishment. As he walked down Lana moved to the back of the counter to wait for his story.
::In Mack's apartment she finally chose an outfit and went in the shower to start the getting ready process::
Clark got to the counter and sat down acting like he had been there the whole time. Lana looked at him curiously, "How was your visit with Mack?"
"Fine," he said matter of factly.
Pressing for details, "Did you talk about what happened this afternoon?"
"Yeah, she's fine with it. Actually told me to thank you for sticking up for her," he said this while watching his fingers on the glass.
Disappointed, "She could have told me herself."
"She knows how busy you are, plus she's getting ready."
Leaning on the counter, "Ready for what?"
"Lex, she's going to his mansion to catch up or something," he said finally making eye contact with her.
"Good, I'm glad she's getting out. Did she say anything else?"
"Umm I told her that she should let you in because your worried," he looked at her sheepishly hoping that she wouldn't get anger that he said anything.
"Oh, and what did she say to that?" She was starting to get annoyed, getting information out of him was like pulling teeth.
" Just that she knows and she just isn't use to someone caring so much about her."
Grabbing her tray and walking around the counter to deliver it, "That's all? That doesn't explain anything."
Clark got up to follow her to the table, "Yeah well I did get her to come over tomorrow so we could go for a horseback ride."
Lana smiled as she gave the customers their drinks then standing up straight, "Interesting, thought she was afraid of horses."
"Was.." Clark followed her as she moved around the Talon trying to explain. He may have a lot of abilities but trying to keep up with Lana Lang wasn't proving to be one of them, "or Is.. I don't know I figured it would be nice for her to get out. Like a mini vacation from the Talon."
Finally returning back behind the counter Clark took a moment to rest. Lana grabbed a cloth and began wiping down the counter.
Because she hadn't responded Clark thought he had done something wrong, "Are you mad?"
Shaking her head, "Oh I'm sorry Clark I got distracted. No, I'm not mad I think it was amazing for you to offer," after saying that Lana leaned across the counter and gave him a kiss.
"What was that for?" he said with that annoyingly happy smile spread across his face yet again.
"Being you," she smiled back at him.
They were interrupted by one of the employee's, "Lana sorry to interrupt but the Ice machine isn't working."
"Damnit, ok ill be right there," looking back at Clark, "Why don't you go? I'm sure your bored. I'm come by the loft tonight?"
"Sounds good," he leaned forward over the counter and gave her another kiss, "I love you, see you tonight."
With that he left leaving Lana a bit dumbfounded. They had told each other they loved each other before but it was always during times of stress or crisis. That was the first time they had said it outside of those situations. Thinking this Lana realized they didn't say it just he did. Hoping he didn't think of any thing of it Lana retreated into the back to fix the ice machine floating on cloud 9.
::Lex's Mansion: Night::
When Mack arrived at the front door a butler greeted her and escorted her inside. Once inside he took her jacket and helmet from her then led her Lex's study.
Opening the door the butler announced her arrival, "Ms. Mackenzie Small, Mr. Luthor."
"Thank you Donald," he turned around from looking out the window behind his desk.
The butler nodded to Lex then to Mackenzie and closed the door behind him as he left.
When Lex got a good look at her he was speechless, 'two years older and that much more beautiful.' Yet, Lex never thought of Mack as a conquest. She was the only woman he ever new to take the time to know him and understand him. She was the only girl who knew everything about his past present and possible future. The only person in the world he had ever took the time to be completely honest with. No, she was not a conquest.
Uncomfortable with the silence and Lex's staring Mack spoke up, "Nice crib you got here buddy."
Snapping out his thoughts, "You think? Not as modern as the Metropolis penthouse."
"No, in fact I like this better. It's more you," she took a seat by the fire and crossed her legs.
Lex walked over a glass in hand and sat across from her, "And how is that?"
She could tell Lex was challenging her. He never did let her just compliment him, "It was brought from Scotland correct?"
Happy to fall into their usual banter, "Correct," he took a sip but never took his eyes off her.
Mack looked around, "This place has a history. Whether it be dark or not, a history none the less," she looked at Lex to get some kind of read from his face that he was still interested in her explanation, he was so she pressed on, "But it doesn't belong in somewhere like Smallville, it was up rooted and forced here, much like yourself."
Lex nodded at this.
"At lastly, It's to big for this town. It doesn't fit," she looked at him hopefully.
"Your genius you know that?" sipping his drink and leaning back in the chair, "You just completely pulled that out of the air."
Mack nodded and laughed a little, "That is correct but it has weight does it not?"
"More then you know," he grinned and looked at his drink before he sipped it, "I've missed you."
"I missed you too. Two years huh?"
Lex took in this moment as the fire lit her auburn hair just right and her blue eyes shined. Once again snapping out of it, "Two years, a lot has happened within them both."
"Too much.." Mack ran her hair through her hair. It was the first time since she got to Smallville that she comfortable right where she was. It was nice to be around Lex, nothing had changed between them in those 2 years.
"Well we are here to catch up. So I suggest you go first because, I hope to have, " raising his glass, "a good buzz by the time it's my turn."
Looking at the glass, "That bad huh?"
"You don't even know.." he rose and walked over the liquor cart and poured more into a glass.
::Meanwhile:: Kent Farm: Clark's loft::
Clark was lying down on his futon waiting for Lana to arrive. He was once again excited to see her. He had forgotten that feeling. Clark had lost that feeling when he returned from Metropolis. His anticipation of her daily loft visits had turn to dread. His excitement manifested itself into guilt every time he saw her. He had hurt her. Clark blinked hard at the memory that still haunted him. The look on her face the sound he heard while she cried about……. him.
His mind so distracted with thoughts of the past he hadn't heard Lana walk up the steps and enter the loft. Lana walked over to the futon attempting to get in his eye line, "Clark?"
Clark jumped a little. Swing his legs off the futon giving her room to sit, "Lana, you scared me."
"I thought you had super hearing or something," she said as she took a seat and look at him somewhat concerned. His faced was still in deep contemplation mode. Leaning in, "Everything ok?"
Clark rested his face and removed his eyes from the wall in front of him to look at Lana, "Fine, I was just thinking that's all," desperate not to get into a discussion about last summer he quickly changed the subject, "How was closing up?"
Lana gave him a look when he asked her that, "The usual; sucky." She knew he was trying to avoid a discussion as to what he was thinking. Though she wanted to let him go on this one she could help but push him, "What were you thinking about?"
Clark rose to his feet walked over to the desk and sat on it. His eyes avoiding hers, "Nothing just stuff."
Lana got up and walked over to him. She stood with her body pressed between his open legs she put her thumb to his chin and directed his head to face her, "Nice try. Tell me what's going on in that head of yours."
Clark rested his hands on her waist, "That's not fair."
"What?"
"Your eye's," he looked to the side to avoid them but she tilted her head so that he couldn't escape from them. Giving up and looking into her eyes, "There defiantly the only things outside of kryptonite that can make me go weak," tucking her hair as she smiled, "God, what did I do to deserve you?"
"Nothing, you never had to do anything," looking down then back up at him again. Clark smiled god he loved her, "Seriously what's going on Clark?"
"I was lying there thinking about you and how happy and excited I was for you to come," at the sound of his word Lana gave a small smile, "but.." His eye's broke contact with her and want off to the side again.
"But?" tilting her head again her eyebrows furrowed with concern.
"But then I thought about when I came back from Metropolis," Lana looked down and backed a bit away. Though still standing between his legs she was now closer to his knees then his chest. Sensing her distain for the subject he decided to pack up his troops and retreat from this conversation. Pulling her back to his chest, "Never mind, I'm sorry to bring it up."
Lana didn't respond she just kept her gaze just below his chin.
"Lana?" Now bending his head to get her attention, "You ok? I'm sorry to bring it up."
"Don't be sorry," picking her head up to look at him, "It's just I hate thinking about that. Remembering how I felt then it' isn't exactly pleasant…. that's all," her tone perking up, "But, go ahead I'm listening."
"See I hate this. I feel like Metropolis and my return from it; is the elephant in the room that we both know is there but we to scared to talk about it."
"I don't talk about because that's past that now. I know the truth now and it's in the past."
Letting go of Lana's waist, Clark hopped off the desk and walked over to the window, "Is it?"
Lana opted to stay where she was, "If it weren't would I be here right now?"
"Lana I just can't help but think you'll never forgive me for it. I told you I would never leave and I did…"
Cutting him off, "You were under the influence of the red meteor rock you couldn't control your actions. I understand Clark," she walked up behind him and grabbed his hand.
Not reacting to her Clark stared out into the farm, "And when I came home?"
Lana took a deep breath and let go of his hand this was not a place she felt like going. Yet if he was going to there she would follow, "You had your reasons…" Those four words had kept her breathing through those painful months.
"Lana I need to know that if I could have told you everything the day I came back I would have," turning to face her, "That day you rode your horse to my house. You don't know how much I wanted to just take you in my arms and apologize for everything."
Hearing him say this helped Lana mend that bridge, "You hurt me Clark but at the same time you were hurting. I know that you know that. If your waiting for me to forgive you for it…." stepping close to him, "I already have. I forgave you the night you came to the Talon."
Clark looked at her sadly and wrapped his arms around her waist, "You did?"
Reaching up to put her arms around his neck, "Yeah I did. We have to move on from last summer or that elephant is going to hold us back."
A tear escaped from Clark's eye has he looked into her forgiving, loving eyes. Lana reached wiped it away before it reached his chin.
"So let's move on ok Clark? A new chapter is being written right here and now. A happier chapter."
"An a lot happier chapter," he leaned down to kiss her and just before his lips touched hers he whispered, "I love you."
They kissed once at first because Lana pulled away and whispered back, "I love you too."
After that was done they continued to kiss. Every once and awhile a smile creeping across their face. Clark had managed to slowly walk them over the futon. At first sitting then Clarks hand on Lana's lower waist started to push it towards him causing her back to lean backward and make it's way to the mattress of the futon. Both caught up in the moment hadn't heard the footsteps slowly gaining volume as they made their way up the stairs.
Lana ran her hands up and down Clark's torso eventually resting on his abs and sliding to his back. Clark ran one of his hands through her hair the other up and down her leg.
"Holy Shit!" yelled the visitor.
At the sound of someone else Lana practically threw Clark off of her. Clark landed harshly on the floor as Lana sat up.
At the sight of who it was Lana was instantly angry, which was quite out of character, "Chloe!" looking down at Clark with her hand over her mouth, "Oh my god! Clark, I'm sorry."
Rubbing his head and sitting up, "It's ok. Chloe what the hell?"
Chloe standing there like a daughter who had just walked in on her parents having sex was in complete shock. Add on to that the 4 angry eyes that looked her down, "Umm I was just stopping to umm but your umm busy soo tomorrow then.. Ummm yeah tomorrow."
Before Lana and Clark could get a word in she ran down the stairs and to her car. Both Lana and Clark's eyes remained on the stairs until Lana broke out laughing.
Still rubbing his head, "What's so funny?"
"First of all how awkward was that?" she said through her laughing, "And second of all stop rubbing your head a bullet could hit that thing and you wouldn't even feel it."
Clark stuck his bottom lip and looked up at her his cute eyes calling for sympathy.
Kissing the top of his head an positioning herself she now he sat between her legs, "Aww I'm sorry."
Rubbing her legs, "Chloe probably came to apologize about this afternoon."
"Yupp," she said in a whatever tone has she rested her chin on the top of his head and wrapping her arms around his neck, "But now I'm even more mad."
Clark rocked a little from side to side, "Why?"
"Because she interrupted us," Lana picked up her chin and looked down at him.
In response Clark cocks his head back to look at her, "too bad," returning his head to look straight ahead. A mischievous smile crept across his face, "Because I'm really tired."
Grabbing his head and turning it towards her, "Your kidding right?"
Without warning Clark used his super speed to get up, and sweep her off the futon. It happened so fast Lana hadn't a clue as to what was going on until he stopped and set her down. There they were suddenly in front of the tree they just months before sat and held each other for the first time as girlfriend and boyfriend. Under the tree lie a big blanket, a basket and candles..unlit ones.
Before Lana could get a word out. Clark realized about the candles, "Oh shoot," turning on his heat vision he lit each one.
To Lana it was like magic, she turned around to him speechless," Clark.. It's umm I can't believe…"
Clark just smiled and kissed her in order to save her from her own words. He broke up the kiss and whispered playfully, "I'm not so tired anymore."
Lana smiled and got further on her tippy toes to kiss him. She could get used to this, this was how she always imagined them.
::Meanwhile @ the Luthor Mansion::
Mack checked her watch and got up.
"Where you going?" Lex had a slight buzz from the alcohol he had wanted to have.
"It's getting late," walking over to him and bending down, '"It was good catching up with you," She kissed him on the cheek, "Get some sleep. I'll talk to you later."
As she went to walk away Lex grabbed her hand, "It doesn't have be goodnight does it?"
::More to come::
**reviews are much appreciated; your opinions mean a lot so review away**
New Perspective: Bruised and Broken Part 3
By Saint 2 Cynic
Mack kept her back towards Lex and looked over her shoulder, "Someone has a little more then a buzz," she turned still holding his hand she walked over to the chair and bent down.
Lex thinking she was going to kiss him closed his eyes and opened his mouth a little in anticipation. But quickly snap his jaw shut and opened his eyes when he felt the glass come out of his hand.
Mack stood their knowing full well what he thought she was doing and smiled, "I think you've had enough," she walked over and put it on the liquor cart, "Goodnight Lex, get some sleep."
Making her way to the door Lex continued to pursue her. He managed to stumble his way toward the door trying to block her from leaving, "Come on Mack, why not?"
Crossing her arms, "School night," She attempted to move around him but he persisted in standing in her way, "You've left me with no choice."
Lex leaned in yet again for a kiss, Mack backed up and yelled, "Donald!"
Donald who had been just down the hall immediately popped his head in, "Ma'am?"
Looking around Lex to talk to Donald, the butler, "Hello Donald. Could you see that Mr. Luthor here gets to bed," whispering, "he's had a bit too much to drink."
Nodding, "Yes of course ma'am."
Lex smiled, "Nicely played."
"As always," rubbing his bald head playfully, "Goodnight, my friend."
This time when she moved to get around him and through the door that Donald was holding open he let her. Standing there his back still towards the door staring in front of him as if she was still there. He whispered, "Goodnight, Mack."
::Outside the Luthor Mansion: Night::
Mack walked to her bike, putting on her jacket she shuffled the helmet from one hand to another. Getting on the bike, kicking up the kickstand, she paused for a moment before she put on her helmet and looked up at the mansion. With a slight smile she popped on the helmet and went home.
::Kent Farm: Night::
"You sure you have to go?" Clark said looking down at Lana as she leaned against the Jeep.
"Do I want to, no," taking hold of one of his hands, "Do I have to, sadly yes."
Clark stuck out his bottom lip again showing his disappointment, "Fine," he whined, "if you have to."
Lana laughed a little, "Clark Kent are you whining?"
"yes and I have every right to. Saying goodnight to you means I have to wait till tomorrow to do this," he leaned down and kissed.
He pulled away and looked at her, Lana's eyes and lips were still trying to catch up with the end of the kiss. Clark smiled looking at her.
Finally opening her eyes and seeing his smile she decided to tease him, "You might have to wait longer."
Stepping back, "What do you mean?"
"I mean just because you want this," stepping towards him, resting her hands on his chest and kissing him, "doesn't mean you get it."
Mr. Kent suddenly appear out of the horse stables. Walking by them he nodded to Lana, "Goodnight Lana."
Startled once again Lana removed her hands from Clark's chest and awkwardly said, "Night Mr. Kent."
As Mr. Kent got out of vocal range Clark started laughing. For it he received a playful slap from Lana just before she opened the car door and stepped in. She started the car and rolled down the window as she put on her seat belt.
Clark his crossed arms in the window and rested his head on them, "Night."
Clicking her belt in, she smiled wide at the sight of him leaning on the window. 'God, he's so cute,' she thought to herself. She kissed him on the forehead, "Night."
Clark stepped back from the car as Lana put it in reverse and checked her mirror. Clark watched her as she left waving to him.
Standing there in the driveway lit only by the lights from the porch. Clark Kent was finally content, no longer alone. He smiled then heading back to the house with his hands in his back pockets and his head down.
::The Next Morning: Smallville High::
Mack had finally got to school on time, now to only find her Biology book. Clark walked down the hallway and noticed Mack looking into her locker with a look of utter confusion. As he walked up Mack bent on one knee to search through the bottom.
"Lose something?"
Startled Mack stood up fast, too fast it seems since she hit her head directly into the top of the locker.
"Shit!" she yelled after doing it and turned to Clark as she rubbed her forehead.
Clark watched in shock as the blood trickled down her forehead as the cut sealed itself off and disappeared. Removing her hand from her forehead and looking at the blood now on her fingers then back at Clark for his reaction. His mouth unintentionally wide open, Mack in embarrassment wiped the blood off her hands with a gym shirt from her locker then used it to wipe off her face.
After doing so she looked back up Clark his mouth still open, "You can close your mouth now, Clark it's over."
"Umm no," closing his mouth and feeling guilt, "I mean sorry I didn't mean to."
"It's fine Clark," looking back into her locker, "There it is! Right in front of me the whole time," Mack waved around the book for Clark to see then closed her locker and turned to head down the hallway.
Clark following, "Must be weird huh?"
"What?" putting her book in her messenger bag.
"Never getting hurt."
"I get hurt Clark," she said moving out of the way of a jock, "I just don't stay hurt."
"Well yeah but, I mean do you feel it?"
They had reached Biology Class and now stood in front of the doorway.
"For a few seconds, I guess," as she said it Chloe walked up to get into class. Mack moved to the opposite side of the doorway to get out of her way. Continuing, "Still on for today?"
"Defiantly but first we have to survive Mr. Taber."
Mimicking an old Chinese woman, "Ahhh grasshoppa this is true."
Clark started laughing and was still laughing as Lana walked up.
Looking from Mack to Clark, "What's so funny?"
Mack just shrugged at her and looked to Clark. Clark sensing the answer to the question now lie on him, stopped laughing and raised his eyebrows, "We were just talking about Mr. Taber."
"Yeah such a hard ass," Mack said jokingly. Yet, Clark and Lana weren't laughing both just stood there seemingly looking over her shoulder, "What?"
The person behind her coughed and tapped her on the shoulder. Mack turned around to find Mr. Taber not looking to happy. As he pushed up his glasses Mack's face cringed, "Well this is awkward. You know we really should stop meeting like this."
Both Lana and Clark retreated into class before they burst out laughing.
"Get into class, Ms. Small. Wouldn't want you to be late," putting his hands at his hips.
Mack turned and walked in, "No, wouldn't want that."
::The Torch: mid school day::
Mack stood in the doorway and saw Chloe sitting at the computer. Knocking to get her attention,
::Knock: Knock::
Chloe looked to the door expecting Clark hopefully with an apology ready to go. Instead she saw Mack and disappointedly said, "Mack, wasn't expecting you."
"Me neither, can I come in?" her thumb ran uncomfortably up and down her bag strap.
"It's school property, come on in," Chloe got up, grabbed some papers and walked around to another computer.
Walking to a computer, "So you got information on me, on this thing," tapping the computer lightly.
"Yeah."
"Technology today, nothings off limits and no ones safe," looking down at the screen sheepishly.
Chloe's tone became one of annoyance, "If you're here to tell me off again, your welcome to leave."
Resting her bag on the computer chair, "Nah, that wasn't a pot shot, merely an observation. I would apologize for yesterday but I'm a firm believer that if you say sorry to much it quickly loses it's value."
"Yes, I suppose it does," walking over to the filing cabinet.
"So I'm here to say that I don't hold it against you. You had every right to do what you did. Ask questions"
Chloe didn't respond.
Sensing Chloe wanted her to leave, "And I also wanted to say that I don't want to be the reason for any tension between you, Clark, Lana and Pete," looking down during her revelation, "If it feels like I've been doing that since I got here, so for that I do truly apologize."
Chloe kept her eyes on the files in front of her and failed once again to respond. Mack took that has her queue to go. Without a goodbye she turned to leave.
As she reached the doorway Chloe spoke up, "Thought you never apologized."
Turning to her, "No I do….. just only when I mean it." She nodded to Chloe and left.
::The Talon: around 5 o'clock::
Mack rushed in through the front doors, she was in such a hurry she practically mowed down a guy who was leaving. "Sorry," she kept going, "Opps sorry man." As she made her way through the center aisle she yet again unconsciously swerved around where Dylan had died. As she passed by the counter having seen Clark waiting for her, Chloe sitting next to him and Lana at the counter.
Holding up her finger to him as she passed, "One minute, One minute that's all I need.
Before Clark could get a word in she was running up the stairs with her soccer bag hitting against her back and disappeared into the apartment.
Clark laughed and took a sip of his drink.
Amused Lana asked Clark, "Is she ever on time?"
"Can't say she doesn't try," turning in his stool towards Lana.
"True," grabbing a tray and delivering the drinks.
"Where you two off to?" Chloe asked,
"Horseback riding, I've taken as my personal responsibility to get her over her fear of horses."
Practically choking on her drinking, "She's afraid of horses? The girl who threw and gun through Morgan Edge's wrist wrestled for a gun and rides a motorcycle like she was born on it?"
Clark just shrugged, "I'm as confused as you."
Mack ran down the stairs dressed and ready to go. She reached Clark and held up her finger again. Both Clark and Chloe smiled in amusement.
Taking down her finger, "Ok I just needed to breathe. Ready to go?"
"If you are?"
Looking down at what she was wearing, "What this the wrong outfit?"
"No," getting up, "I just meant you did it so fast, never mind let's go," getting up and nodding to Chloe, "Later Chloe."
As they walked by Lana, Clark ran his hand across her back.
Looking up in response to his touch, "Have fun."
Walking backwards toward the door, "Oh yes! Me and a horse, should by magical. Wonderful World of Disney Magical in fact."
Clark took her by the shoulders and turned her around to go out the doors, "Lets go," he looked over his shoulder to Lana, "I'll call you later."
Calling after him, "Ok."
Chloe began talking to her before Lana had a chance to settle behind the counter, "Horseback riding huh?"
Rounding the pillar and making her way behind the counter, "Yupp."
Chloe let out a, "Uh huh," right before she took a sip.
"You have something to say?" folding her hands on the counter.
"Oh, nothing," she said setting down her cup.
"You want to tell me so let's save the banter."
"Fine, if I had a boyfriend that looked like Clark I wouldn't be so comfortable letting him go horseback riding with a girl that looks like that. No strike that I girl that can still look like that after what? A two hour soccer practice."
"Please Chloe," Lana spoke as she refilled the pastries, "first of all it's Clark, there's no one I trust more in the world. And Mack she wouldn't do that."
Doubtingly, "She wouldn't?"
"No, she wouldn't so you can stop trying to make me paranoid. It's not going to work," she said matter of factly as she closed the lid on pasty dish.
Pretending to put up a white flag, "Ok, I surrender but tell me something else does she always do that?"
Looking at her curiously, "Do what?"
Talking to her as if she didn't know, "Walk around that spot," pointing in back of her, "in the middle."
Lana just responded with a look what-the-hell-are-you-talking-about look.
"Fine, next time she walks in the front door, watch her. It's weird."
::The Kent Farm::
Martha Kent stood in the driveway tapping her foot and looking at her watch nervously. Clark noticing her annoyance pulled in slow and parked. Both he and Mack got out in unison. Knowing he was in trouble Clark held out the keys to his mother and waited for her to yell.
Sure enough out it came, "Clark I have a delivery to make.."
"I know mom, I'm sorry I'm late."
Martha hadn't noticed Mack she was so pissed, "Well I was fine with you taking the truck because you said you would be back be 5 o'clock and it's now,' looking at her watch, "5:30."
Stepping forward to take the blame, "I'm sorry Mrs. Kent it was all my fault. Clark was waiting for me."
Startled by her and slightly embarrassed she hadn't noticed her standing there, "Oh, I'm sorry I didn't see you there," Martha looked at Clark for an introduction.
Taking his cue he gestured to Mack, "Mom this is Mackenzie Small," gesturing back his mother, "Mack, my mom."
Nodding to her, "Good to finally meet you Mackenzie."
"You too, Mrs. Kent."
There stood an awkward silence between the three for a moment.
"Well," looking at her watch a second time, "I should get going." She walked past Clark and went to the driver side of the car. Looking at Mack, "Nice meeting you." With that she got in the car.
Calling after her and waving, "You too, ma'am."
Martha sped off leaving Mack and Clark standing there.
Turning to him, "I'm sorry man, if I had known I would have left practice early."
Brushing it off, "She'll get over it, don't worry about it."
"Ok, if you say so."
"How about you go into the stable while I grabbed the food?" before she could answer he started off to the house.
Yelling to him, "You expect me to go in there alone?"
He didn't answer he just laughed and went into the house.
Doing as she was told Mack walked into the stable and walked over to Comet. Petting him gently, "Hey there buddy."
The horse nodded his head a bit, seeming to be respond to her touch. She continued to pet him until Clark came in. Pleased with her comfortable nature around the horse, "See their not that bad."
"No they're not when they're in a stall," stepping back so Clark could get in.
"You want to ride Comet or Lana's horse Dante?" he said leading the horse out of the stable so he could saddle it.
"Dante? That's like the name of death," taking a look at the horse, "Shotgun Comet."
Laughing, "Comet it is."
Mack sat on a bale of hay waiting for him to finish saddling Comet. When he was done he handed off the reigns to Mack, who looked at them with a disgusted face, "And I'm supposed to do what?"
Opening Dante's stall, "Just lead him outside."
Mack stood and started leading the horse outside all the while saying, "This isn't so bad, no big deal. Just leading the horse. Not a problem."
As Mack waited outside Mr. Kent walked by from feeding the cows. "Going for a ride Mack?"
"Oh hey Mr. Kent," looking at the horse then back at him, "yeah something like that."
Laughing, "Clark told me your not a huge fan of them."
"Well from afar they're really pretty," looking down sheepishly, "up close their very big and…"
Clark emerged from the barn with Dante in tow, "very alive."
Amused, "Well you two," nodding to both, "have a good time. Be safe."
"Will do, Dad," he smiled at Mr. Kent as he turned to leave for the house. Looking at Mack, "Ready?"
Acting like a pro, "Oh sure I'm ready to go Sea Biscuit on this horse."
Correcting her in a teasing tone, "Sea Biscuit was the horse."
Pretending like she knew, "Yeah I knew that."
After their exchange Clark helped her onto the horse then threw himself on to Dante. He moved Dante around the back of Comet and came along side of Mack.
"Ok now just put a little pressure right before his back legs, with your feet and he'll start walking."
Mack gave him a worried look and did as she was told. Comet took his command and began walking. Clark did the same with Dante. Clark looked on as Mack held the reigns like her life depended on it. He couldn't help but laugh.
"What so funny?" she said nervously trying to steer the horse through the path way that led to the open field.
"It's just I saw you the other day going full speed toward a 18 wheeler, then with no fear at all slip between it and Lana's Jeep," walking the horse around her again, "I just don't get how your afraid of horses."
Sitting up straight, "The many mystery's of Mackenzie Small."
They both laughed and continued at a steady pace through the field, onto a path in the woods finally emerging into yet another field. Mack took a look around soaking it all in. Smallville Kansas maybe be small, it defiantly had it's charms. Looking at Clark thinking, 'and cute farm boys.' They continued non-stop for about an hour until there were what Mack referred to as 'East Bumble.'
Stop his horse in the middle of a random field surrounded by woods, Clark waited for Mack to catch up.
Pulling up along side of him, "My butt is going to kill me tomorrow isn't it?"
Laughing, "Yeah, I'm afraid so."
Not caring, "I suppose it's worth it." She leaned forward and pet Comet's right shoulder. Coming back up she was met by Clark looking at her with eyebrows up, "What now?"
"Looks like someone likes horseback riding."
Playing it off, "Whatever helps you sleep, Kent."
Clark laughed and looked around, "You want to stop and eat here?"
"Whatever, works."
They both descended from their respected horses. Mack had a bit at trouble at first but managed to land on her feet. Clark grabbed the basket off the back of the horse and set it down. Then grabbed the blanket off and spread it out. Without instruction to do so Mack tied the horses to a near by tree.
Clark kneeled on the blanket and began to rifle threw it's contents. Mack walked back over and knelt on the opposite side of the blanket.
Looking down into the cooler, "Turkey or PB+J?"
"Oh so we're going French tonight?" she said teasing him, "PB+J."
"Good because I wanted Turkey," he said relieved and threw Mack the PB+J sandwich.
Now sitting Indian style Mack placed it in between her legs and left it there. Clark very content sat back eating his precious turkey. While he ate they sat in silence. When Clark was finally done he wiped his hands on his jeans and looked at Mack signaling the need for conversation.
"You didn't eat," he sad concerned.
Looking down at her sandwich, "I thought I was hungry but I guess not."
Sitting up, "Ok. So I wanted to ask you something?"
"And what was it?" She was hoping against hope it had nothing to do with Morgan Edge and that night.
"What was Lex like in Metropolis?"
Breathing a sigh of relief, "He was well Lex, I guess. He carried himself much like he does now," smiling down at her hands and looking back to Clark who was extremely interested, "But what you see is defiantly what you don't get."
Leaning in, "What do you mean?"
Running her hand threw her hair as usual, "Lex, the man, the myth. He's like a maze where the walls constantly change. Once you think you've got it figured out, once you think you can see the end of it, the walls switch positions and leave you lost again."
Grabbing an apple from the cooler and taking a bite, "Yeah, he's defiantly not one dimensional."
"Well none of us are, Clark. We're all just a bunch of contradictions trying to find a balance."
Clark amazed at her analysis, "You must think about that stuff a lot to have such quick smart opinions on it."
"More lately then usual I suppose," as she said it she looked off into the field, "The suns beginning to set."
Ignoring her obvious change subject, "How are you doing lately?"
"Don't start, Clark. Ok?" still looking out to the field.
"Mack, you have to talk to someone."
Mack stood up as he said it, looking him down at him obviously not to happy , "I knew it." Walking to the horse shaking her head.
Clark's eyes watched her get up and his body followed her to the horse, "Knew what?"
"I knew you brought me out here today to get me to open up, I so called it," she said this frustrated as she pulled the stur-ups down.
"Mack I know what your going through come on just hear me out," he walked to the front of the horse and held its reigns.
Mack threw herself on the horse like she had been doing it forever. Looking down at him from the saddle. Her eyebrows pressing to her nose, her forehead firm with anger, "You know what I going through? I highly doubt it being that I haven't told you a single thing about what I," she put emphasis on the 'I' , "am going through. Just get out the way Clark."
Clark moved to the side knowing that whatever he did he couldn't stop her. She began to trot off then turned the horse sideways, "Thanks though it was nice until about 5 minutes ago."
"Come on, Mack don't go!" he called after her. His eyebrows suddenly shot up as he realized Mack didn't have a clue as to how to get back, "Wait Mack Wait!" He ran over to Dante and untied him. Leading him away from the tree Clark hopped on quickly. A little to quickly for Dante's taste.
The horse bucked and turned around on its hind legs. Letting out a loud "NAYYY!"
Clark nervously tried to hold on, "Calm down, boy!."
The horse landed sharply the bucked again. Hearing the commotion Mack turned the horse sideways again to see what was going on. Her eyes went wide at the sight of Dante freaking out.
On the third buck the horse let out another loud "NAYY!" This time Clark fell backward off it and the horse sprinted towards the woods, dragging Clark with it. His foot was tangled in the stur-up.
Seeing this Mack quickly turned Comet towards the direction Dante was headed. Being dragged like a rag doll, it was all happening to fast for his powers to be of any use so he called out for Mack, "MACKK!!!!"
As he said it he and the horse were getting smaller and smaller, finally disappearing down the over side of a hill. Mack kicked the horse urgently, without giving thought to the fact that she didn't know how to handle a horse outside of a trot. Comet just started strolling in the direction Mack turned him.
Kicking him hard, "Go fast or something!!" kicking him again, "GO DAMNIT!"
With that on last kick Comet shot off after Clark and Dante. A little to fast for Mack's taste because she couldn't stop cursing, "Shit Shit this is shit shit this is too fast! Oh crap."
As they reached the top of the hill and went down it, Mack couldn't see Clark anymore. Figuring they went into the woods she pressed the horse down the hill. As they hit the woods she realized there wasn't exactly a path to follow.
Slowing Comet down she turned in her saddle looking around frantically, "CLARK!?!?!?!" No answer. "CLARK IF YOU CAN HEAR ME SAY SOMETHING!" Still no answer Comet continued to navigate through the woods, shoot her eyes from side to side slowly getting more worried, "CLARK, WHERE ARE YOU?!?!"
Mack stop Comet and sat in silence waiting for an answer.
Just as she was about to yell again, "Mack! Over… over here!"
Mack jumped off Comet and tied it to a tree, "Clark? Keep talking so I can follow your voice!"
Clark's voice was weak yet full of volume, "Over here, I think there's something in my leg."
Mack's stroll turned into a sprint as she searched for the location of his voice. Finally coming to a little clearing she stopped short. There in front of her was Dante, his head bent calmly eat grass. Then there was Clark his face riddled with pain, "Mack."
Running over to him as she got closer she saw what was hurting him. Somehow while he was being dragged Dante managed to run him into a jagged rock. The rock ran right through his leg. In shock she looked closer.
As she bent down to see it Clark forced out, "What is it?"
Her eye's went wide but she didn't speak.
In excruciating pain Clark spoke through his tightly closed jaw, "Mack what is it?"
She looked at it then back at him, "The rock.. The rock it went through your leg," she looked at it horrified then back at him again, "Clark it's a bright green rock."
::To Be Continued::
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