A/N: Oy! It's getting closer… Closer to the end… Oh, don't worry, I still have like 7 more chapters planned… and some of them are as short as this one. I guess I'll just have to suck it up, hmmm?
Chapter 14
The kiss deepened spontaneously and I felt breathless with delight. It was a response to our mutual attraction… and I realized that maybe Clark did like me more than just friends. Maybe he wasn't totally freaked out by my goddess powers. Clark broke the kiss and I was totally charmed. But I also could feel the awkwardness crop up again. Maybe we weren't ready to address a new aspect of our relationship. I looked away and moved toward my desk. "Thanks, Clark," I said shyly. "If you hadn't come over…"
"I didn't want to leave you hanging…" Clark said wryly, his face twisted in a self-depreciating grin. I laughed lightly, mainly to reward him for trying to lighten the suddenly serious atmosphere. "Now that we got that problem solved, what brought it on?"
I considered the question. "Well, I had my 'meeting' with one of the PTB, but I didn't have any sensation of flying." I frowned fiercely. "I haven't been so angry and frustrated in awhile. I was upset that they'd taken my sisters and support system just before I'm going to have to face some serious trial… I think he said it was going to be a 'trial by fire', but that can't be literally. What the heck is that supposed to mean?"
"Didn't we just discuss that you're not alone?" Clark sounded a little miffed at me. "You don't have to do anything alone. I'm right here!"
I was a little taken aback. Have I been so sunk in self-pity that I was ignoring the resources I did have? "Sorry, Clark. I know we're a team… but you don't have any experience with these powers!" I felt like the blackness of despair was pressing in on me… suffocating me. "Maybe it would have been better if one of my sisters had been left behind instead…"
Clark's brow beetled together and he glared at me. "Chloe Sullivan, stop that right now! You were left behind for a purpose. Maybe the PTB left you behind because you were the most qualified to face this... whatever." I shrugged non-committally and his eyes turned shrewd. "You're just scared."
"That's just… You've totally missed the…" That bald statement set off my anger again, but I couldn't complete a sentence to deny it vehemently. Probably because it was true. I could feel my shoulders sag in defeat. "I am, Clark. I really am." I pulled in a shuddering breath. "I'm not strong enough for this!"
When Clark started to laugh, I felt really offended. "Sorry, Chlo," he said after he was able to get control of himself again. But when he looked into my eyes, his sincerity shone through. "You're one of the bravest people I know. Even if you did have to do this alone, you have the ability to change and save the world."
With that simple statement, my heart began to swell in my chest. If Clark believed in me, how could I possibly fail? My eyes burned with unshed tears. "Thanks, Clark," I choked.
Clark blushed and ducked his head. We sat in silence until Clark shook his head. He looked up at me and smiled brightly. "If this is going to happen as fast as you think, we're going to have to start your training program right away."
It made a lot of sense, so I nodded. I may be stubborn, but this was his bailiwick. "What do you suggest?"
"Well, I'm thinking we should go to the farm and practice. With the fields and everything, we wouldn't have to worry about anyone seeing us."
It kinda' shocked me that Clark… my Clark… was thinking so logically. Wasn't that my job? I got up and grabbed my bag. "Alright, let's get started."
Clark stayed exactly where he had been as I walked to the door. I looked back with the obvious question in my eyes. He blushed hotly, but looked very determined. "Chlo, I don't think Mom would… appreciate… your pajamas."
I looked down and shrieked. In all the excitement of the morning, I had totally forgotten that I hadn't been able to get dressed. "Clark! Why didn't you say something? Tell me sooner?" I practically shoved him out the door.
His laughter sounded through the wood. I was totally mortified. Why hadn't he reminded me? "Hey, Chlo." I was surprised that he was still hanging around outside my door. "When did you steal one of my shirts?" His laughter traveled down the hallway and down the stairs. I collapsed on the floor, wishing I really could die from embarrassment… But Mr. Clark Kent wasn't going to get the last say in this one…
A/N: This was a bit of fluff that I absolutely had to put in. I'm sure some guys have wondered what Chloe wears to bed… Now you know! ;D
jessicatay: Welcome! I love sucking new people into my version of Smallville! And I'm so glad that you enjoyed my work… especially considering you're new to FanFiction. I feel very priviledged!
carcassi: Chlark… Ah, that's my fave bit. Perhaps that's the reason why I dislike Lana so much. In regards to the writers of the show… Well, I have to admit that I really wish they'd look back at their first outlines of the characters and actually watch past episodes. They seem to forget where they've gone and then they totally go against character. It's so tiring!
markmark261: Actually, in regards to the sleeping and flying bit, I think I was intending that it was the PTB's way of showing that she did have Clark to show her the ropes. But wouldn't that be funny if she went camping and then just floated away… Maybe next time! ;D
Cherri202: I'm so honored! I hope you and your friends continue to enjoy my work… and I hope that continues.
CSLUVSCK: Another fan! Have I mentioned lately how I appreciate how much ya'll seem to like my work? It makes the whole thing more motivating. I would probably continue to write anyway, but it helps give you that oomph to keep at it… AND ya'll make me write better so I don't disappoint! I mean, that's the best part!
BabyC2003: I've noticed that even when I try to do more drama/serious, I still have to throw in the funny. Is it any wonder why Joss Whedon and Mel Brooks are some of my inspirations?
iluvsmallville1: Well, did you check out my site and my Smallville video? Tell me what you think? This took me a little longer to post, but the past two weeks have gone absolutely crazy for me!
joesarah97: No worries about not reviewing… I just love that you still like it.
MacGateFan: I am feeling better… and I'm staying away from all sickies! Now if my life can just go back to boring normal, I might be able to update even better! ;D
I will take a moment to say that if you do see anything glaringly wrong, please let me know. I have my grammar proofer (markmark261, you always rock!) but character motiviation is also a big part. Don't worry that I'll get mad… I may cry a bit, but I won't get mad… ;D
