Jerry had been so lost in thought that he hadn't noticed Clark come up to the loft. He turned abruptly. "Clark...sorry, I was lost in thought."
"About your wife?"
"Yeah." Jerry was embarrassed. He and Lois had been married for years now, but he still missed her like a love-struck teenager. He missed her smile, he longed to hold her in his arms. But, he had to remember, if all went well, he would be back with her before the end of the week.
"I've been meaning to ask you, who is your wife?"
This was a question Jerry had been dreading. His main concern was telling Clark things he wasn't ready to know. The question was, was he ready? He decided to stall. "Why so curious?" Jerry said with almost a teasing grin.
"Well, you and I have parents by the same names. We both dated Lana Lang. I just want to know. Maybe it could help me decide something."
"Something?"
"Yeah. I've been thinking about what you said earlier. How your wife "discovered" your secret. I know you planned to tell her and probably put it off for her own good. I just figured, if I knew who she was, I could make sure she knows before she has the chance to find out on her own."
Jerry saw the look in Clark's eyes. He was asking about Lana. From what Clark had told him, he was afraid of telling Lana. But if he knew that he and Lana were meant to be, he would tell her. Problem was, Jerry really didn't know. What if the Clark in this universe did wind up with Lois, what if it was Lana? He couldn't take that chance. "Clark, I know what you're asking. But, I can't tell you. At least not yet. You need to find things out on your own. Like I said before, I'm not here to force you to accept your destiny, I'm here to help you realize it!"
"I know. I guess I just figured I'd ask. I mean, you of all people know how hard it is to carry this secret."
"Yeah. But you have something I didn't at your age. Chloe. I can see she care for you Clark and she's kept your secret. She's helping you to bear the burden. But I will say this. When you do realize who you're supposed to be with, tell her. Before you even say that you love her, or that you want to marry her, tell her your secret. It will be a lot for her to take in, but believe me, it'll be worth it in the end."
The two men shared an awkward silence. "So," Clark finally spoke up. "Do you want the living room couch or the bedroom?"
"Actually...would you mind if I crashed up here? There's something comfortable about this loft. I like looking up at the stars."
Clark smiled. "Yeah, I know the feeling. Be my guest. But, my dad's up early to do chores so..."
"I'll be up to help him. Don't worry. I did grow up on a farm too you know!"
Clark chuckled. "Oh yeah. Sorry."
"That's okay. Good night Clark."
"Good night."
Clark headed off to the house while Jerry settled in for the night. He fell asleep with a smile on his face. The thought of seeing Lois gave him hope that everything would be all right.
The next morning, Jerry woke at the first signs of daylight. As he headed down from the loft, he noticed Jonathan getting some tools ready. "Goodmorning Jerry! How'd you sleep?"
"Very well, thank you."
"Great. Listen, would you mind getting Clark up for me. I've got some fences that need mending and some cows to milk."
"Actually, I was thinking of letting Clark sleep in today. I know my being here has taken it's toll on all of you, but especially him. Could I help you? I did grow up on a farm and I do share your son's abilities."
Jonathan appeared to think for a moment. "Sure, why not."
Jerry spent the morning helping Clark's dad with various chores. Truth was he enjoyed not having to tune in for the latest problems that needed Superman's help. He used his abilities when necessary and realised that even though he and Jonathan were only about five to ten years apart, he still looked up to him as he would his own father. This Jonathan Kent was the same hard working, passionate, warm hearted man that his own father was.
After the chores were done, Jonathan and Jerry went into the house to find that Martha had cooked breakfast and Clark was sitting at the kitchen table. "Hey Jerry," Clark said. "Thanks for covering for me. I think that's the best sleep I've had in a while."
"Don't mention it. I kind of miss farm work. Don't get me wrong, I love journalism, but doing farm work helps to take your mind off things."
"Actually," Jonathan chimed in. "He was quite the worker. You could learn a thing or two from him Clark!" Jonathan teased.
"Yeah, yeah! Well, thanks for setting the bar high Jerry! Now I'll never hear the end of it!" Everyone chuckled at Clark's comment.
"Anytime Clark, anytime. By the way, I forgot to ask, did you set up the meeting in Metropolis today and have you decided whether or not to tell Chloe the truth about me?"
"About that, I think I am going to tell her. Actually, we can tell her on the way to Metropolis." Jerry smiled which was almost mirrored by Clark. "Chloe had Lois and I on a three-way call last night.!" Clark shook his head. "Lois was actually grateful that she didn't have to drive down here. Chloe said she'd be here to pick us up..." Clark looked at his watch and at the same time a car horn sounded. "...about now!"
Jerry turned to see the car parked in the driveway. "Clark, can you stall her for a minute or two. I'd kind of like to take a shower."
"Sure...but only a minute or two?"
"Clark I'm surprised! You've never been late for school and had to shower and get dressed in less than three minutes?"
"I guess I've never tried."
"Well, time for you to see it in action." Jerry was about to take off when Martha stopped him.
"Jerry. I hung some of Jonathan's clothing on the bathroom door. You're more his size than Clark's so they should fit. I assumed you wouldn't want to wear the same clothing two days in a row. Just leave your things on the door and I'll make sure they go with me to the cleaners today."
"Thanks Mrs. Kent." With that, Jerry super sped upstairs and in a flash was in the shower, out of the shower and was putting on his suit and the clothes that Martha had laid out for him.
On the door hung what appeared to be a suit similar to his own. Formal, yet sporty at the same time. Even a black silk tie had been hung there. Martha had obviously relized that Jerry didn't want to leave his Superman suit behind. The clothes she'd picked out were slightly loose but comfortable. In a flash, he was dressed and decided that, since Chloe would more than likely be downstairs, he'd take them at a normal pace.
Sure enough, when he got downstairs, he found Chloe and Clark chatting. "Hey guys!" Jerry said.
Clark turned around suddenly, apparently not expecting to see Jerry so soon. "That was fast!"
"Didn't want to keep you guys waiting. Are we ready to go?"
"Yeah, we're meeting with Lois for lunch and then the evening is up to us."
"That sounds great. In fact, there are some things I'm hoping to check out tonight in Metropolis."
"Well, if you to gentleman are ready?" Chloe chimed in. "I think we should hit the road!"
The three of them got into Chloe's car and headed for Metropolis. Jerry left it to Clark to determine the appropriate time. As it turned, out, he wouldn't have to wait long, or for Clark. "Okay guys, what's going on?"
Clark seemed taken aback. "Chloe, what are you talking about?"
"Clark, first of all, I've seen your family tree and Jerry here is not mentioned."
"You looked up my family tree?" Clark appeared to be shocked and almost hurt.
"Don't give me that look Clark. I did it last night before you called. When you first introduced Jerry here to us. Something didn't add up. There was something about the way he answered about Lois. Like he knew her. And the fact that you two were sticking together like glue which you never do unless this person has some kind of secret or it's Lana Lang!"
Jerry quickly realized that even though Chloe wasn't Lois Lane, she certainly had the same reporter instincts. It only made sense that she was related to her. "Okay Chloe," he spoke up. He looked at Clark in resignation. "There is something going on. Clark's intention was to tell you during this ride, but evidently you beat him to it. I guess the easiest way to start explaining this is to tell you that my real name is Clark Kent!"
Chloe almost veered off the road, but regained control. "Okay guys, spill it!" Chloe appeared to listen intently as Clark and Jerry took turns sharing the details of the events of the past twenty-four hours.
"Okay, so Jerry is actually Clark Kent, but from a another dimension and is here to help you realize and accept your destiny? I have to admit, anywhere else, this would be weird..."
"...But this is Smallville." Clark said, finishing Chloe's sentence.
Chloe grinned. "Okay, so what's our next step?"
"Our next step?" Jerry asked incredulously.
"Yes, our next step! You guys pulled me into the loop for a reason, so I'm on board to the end."
Jerry shook his head and grinned. She was definitely related to the Lanes. "Okay. Well, the Lois in my dimension was always a big help. Sometimes just having her in the room invoked inspiration and solutions would seem to come out of nowhere. Even though we don't intend to bring her in on this, I would like to sit down and talk with her."
"Well, you'll get your chance. We'll be arriving at the restaurant in the next half hour. So Jerry, red cape and blue tights?" Chloe giggled.
Jerry sighed and shook his head, sinking into the back seat of the car. Clark defended him. "Chloe, come on! The guy's a hero where he comes from. It can't be easy being a world renown hero and still trying to live a normal life. The suit gives him that freedom." Chloe's face appeared to sober. "Sorry Clark. Sorry Jerry. I didn't realize. I know what Clark has had to endure with his secret. If those tights let you expose that secret without compromising your life, all the power to you!"
"Thanks Chloe." Jerry replied. "And Clark, thanks for that. I'm glad you're starting to understand why I've chosen the life I have."
"Don't mention it. Not that I like the idea of wearing that suit, I do like the idea of using my abilities in the open without worry about getting disected in a lab."
The rest of the ride was quiet. Jerry was amazed as they passed the massively tall offices of the Daily Planet on their way to the restaurant. They pulled into the parking lot and headed for the main entrance where a woman was standing. She had long light brown hair and a tanned skin complexion.
"Lois.." Jerry thought out loud.
"How did you know?" Clark asked.
Jerry tried to recover. This Lois looked nothing like his Lois, but her demeanor was unmistakable. And there was this strange feeling. Not a connection, but a small sense of familiarity. The woman was a stranger, but part of her felt familiar. "Uh, the Lois in my dimension takes that same stance when she's been waiting a while." Jerry whispered.
"Oh." Clark was a little confused, but that did make some kind of sense.
"It's about time you guys got here!" Lois spoke up as they approached. "I've been waiting for over five minutes! What happened? Did your tractor break down Smallville?"
Clark chuckled. "Lois Lane, meet Jerry Kent."
Jerry reached out his hand. But Lois didn't recipricate. "Yeah, nice to meet you. Can we eat now? I havent eaten all day!" Yep, that was definitely Lois Lane. More like the one he first met. Rigid and almost cold. She looked so different. She had a beauty about her, but it wasn't the same deep beauty that his own wife held. Jerry retracted his hand and followed Clark and the girls into the restaurant.
After being seated at their table and having ordered their beverages, Chloe decided to start the conversation. "So, cous, rough night?" Chloe could tell her cousin was tired. She could be snippy, but she was only this rude after a rough night that resulted in lunch time being breakfast time.
"Yeah. Up late editing your article, and then that stupid dream about the guy in a red cape and blue tights! I hate that dream!"
Jerry had been taking a sip of his water and just about choked on it at Lois' words. Clark and Chloe looked at each other. They'd heard about Lois' recurring dream, but it hadn't got their attention until now. Clark quickly changed the subject. "So, Lois, how's life in Metropolis."
"Crazy! Crime rates are up. A friend of mine got mugged the other day. She managed to kick the guy where it hurt, but managed to get her wallet and stumble off. Someone has to step up and do something. I mean, for right now, the cops are doing their best, but the morale of the city is starting to plumet. In a few years, who know how bad it'll be? Hopefully something or someone will come along to inspire them! Anyway, other than that, life is okay. Chloe here is still trying to talk me into doing freelance work for the Daily Planet. Can you see it? Me! A reporter!" Jerry chuckled. Chloe and Clark started to grin. "What are you laughing about Jerry "Curl"?" Lois was not impressed?
Jerry smiled matter of factly. "First of all, it's Jerry Kent, not Curl, Kent! Secondly, I'd hate to be the subject of one of your investigative reports. The way you attack your friends, I'd hate to see you attack a corrupt politician!"
Lois seemed to be taken aback. "Well, thank you...you know Chloe, maybe I'll get started on that article you wanted this afternoon. I believe there's a city council member that may be able to provide a juicy story that might just be good enough, even for the likes of the Daily Planet."
The food arrived and was enjoyed in silence. Apparently, there'd been enough talking for the time being. For dessert, Jerry was happy to see, Lois had ordered a chocolate fudge sundae with chocolate ice cream and chocolate sprinkles. It was nice to see there were certain things about Lois Lane, in any dimension, that would never change.
After lunch, Lois left to find her target and get the interview that would make the story. In the meantime, Chloe had decided, Jerry would get a tour of the Daily Planet. As they stood outside the Daily Planet building, Jerry couldn't help but look up. The events that had transpired outside his own Daily Planet building were too numerous to mention. The only consistent thing about this place was the Daily Planet Globe, except here it was on the roof.
The tour lasted a couple of hours. It was an impressive building. Not has open concept as his own. The editor's office looked like a suite. Perry would be jealous. Perry. Jerry wondered how long it would be before Perry took the editor's position. Or if he ever would. One of the other similarities that Jerry appreciated was the stairwell. That would come in handy later that night, unbeknownst to Clark.
Dinner that night was simple. They found a local pizza place. They all shared pleasant banter. Clark even called Lana in Smallville so she could get in on the conversation. Jerry could tell that Clark and Lana were certainly in love. He felt bad for them in a way. If Clark and Lois were really meant to be, it meant one or both of them would be hurt. He only hoped it wasn't something too drastic.
As the evening wore on and night fell, Jerry realised that it was time. "Clark, it's getting late, maybe we should get going."
Clark was curious. "What about Chloe?"
"Yeah what about Chloe...me. What about me?"
Jerry sighed. "Chloe, I know now what needs to be done next. Just trust me, trust us!" Chloe nodded. "Take your car and go back to your dad's in Smallville. Clark and I will get home "our way"." Jerry smirked. "Oh and Chloe. We'll need your key card for the Daily PLanet. Please."
"But..." Chloe tried to protest, but it was no use. These were two Clark Kents, okay so one was more than ten years her senior, but the pleading eyes were the same. "...okay. But I better get full details and that card back!"
"Count on it!" Jerry smiled.
As Chloe got in her car and drove away. Jerry lead Clark back to the Daily Planet and using her key card, gained entrance into the building. They supersped past security towards the stairwell. Once in the stairwell they stopped. "What are we doing here?" Clark asked.
"Later. Let's get to the roof. Race you to the top!" Jerry grinned.
Clark grinned back. "But try to keep up this..." before he could finish his sentence Jerry was gone and he heard a opening door echo through the stairwell. Clark super sped up to the roof to find the door open and Jerry waiting there for him.
"For a young guy, you're pretty slow!" Jerry teased.
Clark took the shot, knowing he'd done the same thing to Jerry the day before. "So, what are we doing up here?"
Jerry's expression turned to one of nostalgia and thoughtfulness. "Look out over the city Clark. Metropolis! One of the largest cities in North America. In my dimension, I've stopped hundreds of muggers, burglars, crime bosses. I fly routine patrol flights over the city. I've memorized almost every angle of it. It's become my responsability. My home! I hear the cries. I've seen people who have suffered because I wasn't fast enough! You see Clark even we have our limits, you and I. Sometimes being faster than sound or even a speeding bullet isn't enough. But my wife once told me that it doesn't matter. What matters is that we try."
"Why are you telling me this?" Clark was suspicious. He knew Jerry was going somewhere with this, but he didn't know where.
"Clark, I finally get it. I understand what Jor-el was trying to tell me yesterday. Have you ever tried expanding your enhanced hearing? To listen for a specific purpose?"
"No! Why would I do that? My family and friends are my priority!"
"I know Clark. But you were sent here with a bigger purpose. Close your eyes Clark. Listen to the city. Listen for those who need help. Listen for police sirens or radio broadcasts. These are areas where abilities like our are invaluable!"
Clark was about to protest, then relented. He closed his eyes and listened. At first, he could only hear his heartbeat and Jerry's. But after a few moments he began to hear the sounds of the city. Then he heard it. The sirens. Then the radio call. "Fire at the south docks. All units proceed to..." Clark couldn't listen any longer.
"I don't have to act on it, do I?" Clark asked.
"No, it's probably best that you don't. But I will."
"You will? What do you mean?"
"This!" With a fluid motion Jerry took off his glasses, tossed them to the side and pulled open his shirt to reveal the red and yellow "S" shield. Then he did a quick spin to reveal the rest of his superman guise, his civies lying in a pile next to him. "Jor-el wanted me to "show you". This is the best way I know how. Don't worry, no one will see me. That's the beauty. The speed can keep you from being seen, the costume protects you in case you are. Fly with me. Wait for me above the clouds and look down. You should be able to watch what happens with your enhanced vision. You'll understand. Now, if you'll excuse me." With that, Jerry took off with Clark right behind him. Jerry headed for the site of the fire and Clark headed above the billowing cloud of smoke."
When Jerry arrived on the scene, he did a quick scan and noticed people trapped inside the building. Using his icy breath, he cooled the area around the trapped individuals and then flew them to safety. He made sure he was fast enough so that he wouldn't be seen. He then flew around the building at lighting speed and, using his icy breath, put the rest of the fire out. Content that he had done all he could, he flew up into the sky to meet up with Clark.
When he found Clark, Clark's jaw was dropped and there were tears in his eyes. "Those people, would've died. Wouldn't they?"
Jerry floated over to Clark and stood beside him looking down at the emergency lights. "Maybe. Probably. I have to admit, if this was my Metropolis, Lois and I would be finding out who started the fire and would make sure he never does it again."
Clark was at a lost for words. "So you don't just save the world from troublemakers as Superman. You expose them and make sure they can't hurt anyone again. And you do that as Clark Kent?"
Jerry nodded. "I've always said that "Superman" is what I do. It's my abilities that allow Superman to exist. Clark Kent is who I am. But they need each other. They allow each other to exist. Do you understand now Clark? Do you see the significant role you are destined to play. That was just one fire. Imagine how many people you can save. How many you could help. The image of Superman has spawned charities and organizations. It's done the world a lot of good. Whenever I feel down, my wife always encourages me. She builds me up and reminds me that even though I can't do everything. I can do something! And something, is always better than nothing!"
At this point, Clark composed himself and looked at Jerry. "Lois."
Jerry was taken aback. "What?"
"She's your wife...isn't she?"
Jerry was at a loss for words. He hadn't intended to tell him. But decided to concede the truth. "Yes. She is. How did you figure it out?"
Clark smiled. "Well, there was the way you reacted when you first heard her name. Then the way you reacted when you saw her. But it was Lois' comment that really tipped me off."
Jerry nodded. "The dream about the "guy in blue tights and red cape". I was afraid that would tip you off."
Clark chuckled. "So, Lois eh? And the Daily Planet? Is that really what I have waiting for me?"
Jerry looked at Clark sympathetically. "Clark, I know the idea of you and Lana not being together doesn't seem like a good idea. But listen, just because it worked that way for me, doesn't mean you're bound by it. Just know that you have a greater significance. Your choices and the choices of those around you will shape the specific details of your ultimate destiny."
Clark nodded. "Thanks Jerry. You've certainly given me something to think about." The smoke had begun to clear and Clark was the first to notice. "Looks like we should be going. We'll head back to the planet to get your clothes and then head back to Smallville and try to devise a way to get you home. Now that you've "shown me", maybe Jor-el will let you go back to your own dimension."
Jerry and Clark flew back to the Daily Planet where Clark spun back into his civies and the two men flew back to Smallville. They both knew there was only one way to get him back, and it wouldn't be easy. They would need to get into the caves and avoid Lex Luthor.
A/N Thanks to all those who've reviewed. Only a chapter or two more before it's complete.