The day of Lex's wedding arrived and Ashley was a mess. When Bruce had put the idea to her, it seemed like a good one. Now that she was here, it was the worst possible idea she had ever heard of.
He had to give her three shots of whisky to get her off the jet and into the limo. The ride had been a rant of reasons why she should not have come. Bruce had hid his chuckles behind his hand and helped her out of the car. She sat in the pew next to him shaking in her cranberry silk. He smiled at her and patted her knee.
"Breathe Ash, you are as pale as a sheet." He whispered to her. She clutched his hand and whispered back
"I don't know why I let you talk me into this, Bruce. I should not be here!" She leaned back against the warm wood seat and attempted to control the hyperventilation that threatened.
Then suddenly there he was, Lex. Walking out to take his place by the altar, she gasped and fisted her small hands in her lap. He was so beautiful in his tuxedo; the sight robbed her of air.
She shifted to shield herself behind a woman with a ridiculously large hat, watching him greet a couple sitting in the second row. He still had a physical effect on her, she began to tremble. She grabbed Bruce's hand again in a desperate hold.
"Bruce! I can't do this!" she pleaded. He pulled her fingers off of his and leaned closer to her.
"Ashley Lynn Embers, you can and you will. For your own good you will stay and see this thru." He said firmly. She swallowed and accepted that her cousin refused to save her from the Hell she was in.
Half and hour later the wedding had still not begun; Ashley was nearing a frantic state. The universe was punishing her she was convinced of it.
Would this wedding ever start? Was this her penalty for her pride? Someone whispered that the best man had not shown, making those around them begin to mutter. She wrapped her arms around her sides and hoped she would not pass out.
There was a flutter of activity as an incredible beautiful, young girl scurried down the isle to speak with Lex and the couple in the second row. Something was happening; the couple got up and made a hasty exit.
As they passed by Ashley got a better look at them. Good, honest looking people, salt of the earth types. The woman was lovely and red haired, while her husband was tall and rugged. They must be locals; people Lex had endeared himself too.
Once they had left the music started. Ashley's heart fell to her shoes as Dr. Helen Bryce made her way down the isle. She walked with her head high to the waiting man who smiled with eyes that shined.
Ash managed to make it thru the entire ceremony without vomiting or passing out. As the happy couple began, their walk back down the isle, the congregation stood up, all smiles and joyous faces.
Ashley clutched her cousin's arm and tried to disappear. When Lex and Helen reach their pew, Lex's eyes fell on Bruce and he smiled giving Wayne a nod. Bruce returned the nod and shifted his weight revealing the small woman at his side.
Lex stopped, his heart skipped a beat as he beheld Ashley. His feet actually refused to move; he felt the world pulse around him in an oxygen deprived moment. Helen turned puzzled eyes to him and pulled at his arm before turning her gaze on what had her new husband so entranced. She locked eyes with Ashley.
Ash stood to her full stature and smiled her most dazzling smile, she held Helen's stare. The new bride allowed a twist to her own smile and pulled at Lex once again.
That seemed to break the spell. Though it had only taken split seconds to transpire, to Lex and Ashley it had been hours. Then they were gone and Ashley could breathe on her own once more.
Getting Ashley to the reception was like pulling teeth from a sick alligator. In the limo, Bruce had handed her another drink and said they had to make an appearance, if only to protect Bruce's façade of a reputation.
She cursed him under her breath and downed the bitter liquid. As the whisky burned down her throat, she had a thought. Maybe she could just drink the whole time; maybe if she was trashed she could forget where she was and what she had just witnessed.
Bruce pulled her from the limo and guided her to the vast lawn party in the shadow of Luthor castle. Large white awnings and endless tables spread across the grass, a full string quartet played off to the side. As Bruce and Ashley moved thru the crowds, a stir went up. People recognized them both. They found an empty table in a quieter area and Bruce sat her down.
"Ok, kid. What can I get you?" he said leaning down over her. She looked up, her senses were still far too sharp.
"Something strong and make it a double." She said slapping her clutch purse on the table. Bruce chuckled and went off to find the bar.
She remained poised and unfazed to the casual eye, but inside she was falling apart. Why had she done this? What had possessed her to come here and witness this? She continued to mentally abuse herself while the party whirled around her.
"Excuse me, I don't mean to be rude, but aren't you Ashley Embers?" a voice said cutting thru Ashley's internal tirade. She turned, startled to see the girl who had come in late.
Ash noted that she was beautiful in an angelic way. Dark hair and large eyes, flawless skin, she appeared shy as she stood next to Ashley. Remembering her manners the star returned the smile and nodded.
"Yes, that's me." She said motioning to an empty chair. "What's your name?" she asked hoping this would not be too long a conversation. The last thing she needed was a fan to see her in this fucked up state. The girl giggled like a wood nymph and held out a slender hand.
"I'm Lana, Lana Lang." She said. Ashley shook her hand and smiled her best PR smile.
"Nice to meet you Lana." She floundered for a moment unsure of what to say. Grasping for anything she said the first thing that came to mind. "So are you with the groom's side or the bride's?" Dear God what had made her ask that? Lana giggled again and tipped her head.
"The groom's. Lex is a good friend. Well, I guess you could say a business partner as well." She smiled brightly. Ashley gave her a confused look.
"He owns the coffee house I run down town. It's a personal project for us both." She explained. Her eyes narrowed and she looked down for a moment. "I don't have to ask who you're here for." She said in a low voice. Ashley felt her blood go cold and she shrugged.
"Yeah, guess that's no real mystery." She laughed and it sounded hollow. Thankfully, Bruce arrived before she could say anything else stupid. He set the large glass down in front of her and turned to Lana.
"I see you have been making friends in my absence." He gave the girl his charming grin and she blushed. He extended his hand and she took it. Bruce kissed her hand and looked her in they eye.
"Enchanted, I'm Bruce Wayne, and you are?" Ashley tuned out their chatter and focused on her drink.
Let Bruce charm the girl, she had drinking to do.
Bruce managed to lure Lana away so Ash could do her drinking alone. As she tipped the glass back, a voice whispered so close to her ear that it made the skin on her neck ripple.
"Bruce did not tell me he was bringing you." The sound was still like silk and she choked on her whiskey. Slamming the glass down she held her hand to her mouth and coughed into it.
Lex patted her on the back, his hand connecting with the bare skin her nearly backless dress exposed. The contact was electrical, making the blood rush to her stomach and parts lower. Ashley shot to her feet and stumbled back. Gaining control of herself, she took a deep breath and gave him a sunny smile.
"Lex! You startled me!" she said. "Yes, I came with Bruce. I thought it was only fair, I wanted to wish you all the best." Her voice sounded false even to her ears. He watched her in that cat like way of his before returning her smile.
"Really?" he asked. "That's unexpected." Ashley felt the alcohol finally taking affect. Her fear retreated. She returned his stare and her posture relaxed.
"It was a lovely ceremony, Lex." She purred. "Helen is a beautiful woman. I hope you are very happy together." Her words were edged and Lex winced inwardly. Her initial surprise aside he had hoped she would be a little less confident, maybe show that she was hurt at all.
But no, she was wishing him well in his new marriage. Meanwhile every fiber of his being was crying out that it should have been her at his side taking those vows.
Wait, what the fuck was he thinking? Damn it did he still harbor the juvenile fantasy that she still loved him? Don't be a fool Lex! She was here to close the book and see him off. How could you think such a thing having just married another woman?
There was a moment of silence as they studied each other, then Ashley stepped forward and placed a soft kiss on his cheek. Her scent surrounded him and he had to plunge his hands into his pockets to keep from taking her into his arms.
"Take care of yourself, Slick." She whispered before walking away. Lex stood stunned for several seconds, trying to get his emotions under control. When he looked up at last, she was gone.
"Fuck." He said before turning back to the party.
xxxxxx
As the Wayne Tech jet sped back to Gotham, Ashley sat across for Bruce, still drinking. He took the bottle from her hand and shook his head.
"Ash, you are not a drinker. The only thing you are going to accomplish is making yourself sick." His tone was kind. She stuck her tongue out at him in a childish gesture and kicked her shoes across the lavish cabin. He replaced to cap back on the bottle, looking at her with concern.
"I thought this would be good for you, honey. But I see now I was wrong, you were not ready for it." He said the words slowly knowing they would rile her. That was what he hoped, he wanted her to remember that she was stronger then this. The emerald fire she shot at him confirmed his hope. She sat forward in her seat and placed her hands flat on the table.
"Don't try your reverse psychology on me 'Batman'." She said in a low voice. She was pissed off now, her sarcasm ignited Bruce's own displeasure. He slit his eyes, leaning towards her as well.
"Then stop being a 'pussy' and tell me that this outing gave you what you were seeking." His tone was deep and a tad dangerous. At moments like this a bystander would be hard pressed to not see the blood ties that bound them. The stubborn will and treacherous temper they shared had come from their mothers.
True Martha Wayne had been a lovely and kind woman, but even her husband had been known to say that when her 'Irish' was up it was best to just back away slowly. Katherine had a vacant air and sweet disposition, except when she did not get her way. Then she could be a bitch on wheels. There for it was not all that shocking that both their children had inherited that willful nature.
Ashley glared at her beloved cousin and gritted her teeth. He stared back and waited for her to speak. Neither wanting to give ground, or admit that they were over reacting. The tension in the cabin was thick and palpable. Knowing they would be at it all night, Ashley gave in first, falling back in her seat closing her eyes and sighing.
"Ok, you are right, I did get closure. Nothing made that more apparent then listening to him make his vows to her." her tone was sour. she had to swallow a few times, the emotion welling in her chest in a sudden rush. "I just didn't expect...the ...Fuck Bruce! Did you see the way he looked at her?" she said her eyes still closed tight trying to hold back the tears that squeezed out the corners.
Bruce relaxed and his heart went out to her, he had noticed the way Lex had looked at his bride and he knew it would be hard for Ash to take. She shook her head and blinked away the wet.
"Don't worry, Bruce I am not going to have a relapse or turn into a drunk. I just need to dull the pain. I will be fine in the morning." She said and began to chew her bottom lip. He looked down at the bottle in his lap and sighed.
He could not truly know what she was feeling; he could only sympathize and hope she would let him know if she needed him. Bruce stood, handed her the bottle and placed his hand on her shoulder.
"For what it's worth, I think you may have upstaged the bride, in his eyes anyway." He moved to the back of the cabin to submerge himself in his laptop and leave her to her angst. Ash chuckled bitterly and twisted the cap off. She drank straight from the bottle and thought about how to move past the pain.
xxxxxx
When the limo pulled away from the castle to carry the newlyweds off to their jet, Lex leaned back and let the tension fall away. His father had not managed to foil this day after all. Helen had forgiven him his trespass and returned just in time to marry him. Even with the no-show on Clark's part and the surprise 'guest', the whole thing had gone very well.
A feeling of satisfaction settled around him, giving him an unaccustomed comfort. He turned to Helen and his indulgent smile crumbled at the disapproval on her sharp features. Lex took her hand her fingers were stiff.
"What is bothering you?" he asked. She blinked at him and shook her head.
"Why didn't you tell me She was going to there?" her voice was angry. Lex sighed and closed his eyes. He had hoped that was not the problem.
"Bruce never told me he was bringing her, I was as surprised as you were." he said bringing her cold fingers to his lips and kissing them. "Does it really bother you that much?" he asked
She looked at him, thinking of how to answer. True the look on his face had spoke of just how shocked he had been that Ashley was there. She could not believe he had faked that reaction. Still, Helen was seriously ticked off.
"She was just there to bid me best wishes. Really, there was nothing suspect about it." He said trying to get her to let it go, not wanting this to be something they took with them on their honeymoon. Helen bristled a little at his words.
"Oh, nothing suspect? Then can you tell me why you're ex fiancée attended our wedding in a red dress?" her mouth formed a straight line of anger.
Lex paused and thought about what Ashley had been wearing, honestly he had not really paid much attention to her clothing. Now that he looked back, she had indeed been in a red dress.
Fascinating.
Maybe Ash had not been as accepting of the marriage as she appeared. He stifled the smirk that pulled at his mouth and shrugged.
"I am sure she did not mean it how you took it, Helen. Come on, you're the one I married right?" he placated her. Helen's eyes narrowed once more and she gave in.
"True, she had her chance and she lost you. Now your mine." She leaned over and kissed him. Her hands held the sides of his face and she spoke against his lips. "Until death do us part."
xxxxxx
Ashley slept well into the late afternoon. When she finally crawled from her bed, she felt like complete sh!t. So much for her attempt at becoming a lush. She stumbled her way to the bathroom and took a very long shower. The hot spray massaging her shoulders and released the tightness in her muscles.
When she walked out of the bathroom in her white bathrobe she was startled to find Bruce standing in her room. He was slumped shouldered; his face was drawn and pale. She knew something was wrong, dropping her damp towel she crossed the room to him.
"Bruce, what is it? What's wrong?" she asked her voice pitching higher with her distress. He took her by the arms and guided her to the bed. His brown eyes were glassy as he looked into hers.
"Ashley, it's been all over the news... the jet that Lex and Helen were on went down in the ocean. The coastguard found her...but Lex is still missing." He spoke slowly hoping to keep her calm.
Ashley's vision telescoped a few times but she did not pass out, as he had feared. She was mute, her mind unable to grasp the things he was saying.
"They are still searching for him. The wreckage has not been located yet." He hoped by giving her all the information she would deal better. She turned her sharp eyes to him.
"Shouldn't he be in the area they found her in?" she asked her tone sharp. Bruce sighed and told her that Helen had given the coastguard a harrowing tale of how the pilot had drugged them, robbed then and then jumped. And when only one parachute had been left Lex had insisted she take it and he went down with the crippled jet. Ashley's mind found the story had a false ring to it. Bruce nodded his agreement.
"All we can do is wait and hope they find him soon." Bruce said "but we should also be prepared fro the fact that they ...may not find him." He finished in a soft voice. He knew she was in shock and pulled her still form into a hug, rubbed her back. She stared blindly unable to accept what he was saying.
It was just not possible that Lex Luthor was dead.
xxxxxx
Ashley's denial went on for the next forty-eight hours, she walked around in a daze, watching the news and refusing to eat. Alfred did his best to tempt her into eating something, anything. She was like a small wraith wandering the halls and sitting for long stretches staring out the windows. Bruce let her be, knowing she would pull herself out if it.
True enough, after two days Ash shook off her grief and faced up to the reality that Lex had not been found, most likely would not be found. He was gone and she had to continue with her life. She packed up her bags and kissed her cousin. She had rehearsals to start and a tour to get underway.
She pushed herself harder then ever, the performances were flawless. Night after night, she played to packed venues and worked herself ragged. There was not a lot of partying, Ashley would exhaust her body and return to her hotel room to sleep, alone.
She kept an eye on continued search for Lex, but her heart grew colder every day that passed with no sign of him or the plane. The days went by, cities and shows, famous faces and adoring fans, none of it made a difference to her.
The tour came to a triumphant end, Metro Records could not be happier. To anyone who did not know her well, Ashley appeared to be as happy and content as ever. But Vi could see the stress and the emotional strain wearing on her.
Vi suggested that Ash take a month off, the rehearsals for the European tour would not start until October. Ashley thought about it and agreed that she could use the break. She did not want to go to Gotham however. Being in that vast rambling manor made her feel so very empty. Instead, she went to the penthouse in Metropolis. It had been almost a year since she had stayed there.
Ashley had barely settled back in Metropolis; when Lionel Luthor announced that, he was calling off the search for his son. He would be holding a memorial the following week in Metropolis. He had Lex declared legally dead.
She sat on her sofa staring at his detestable face and the pretending he did for the cameras, and she hated him more then she ever had in her life. She hated Lionel with every ounce of her soul. The phone rang and she knew it was Bruce.
"Hey." She said she could hear him clearing his throat. "Don't worry, I am not flipping out." She told him. They talked for a while and agreed to go to Lex's memorial together. Ashley hung up the phone, walking to her room she curled up on her side in the large bed. As she lay there, she let herself remember him, really remember him.
So many different images flashed in her head, swirling and fading in and out. Pieces of that glorious trip to France, him pressing her to the ancient wall in the village and kissing her so very hard, her heart sounded loud in her ears. Him looking at her across a crowded room, the subtle wink and the thrill that it gave her. That first kiss he had stolen in the gym, the dusky light of the room making her feel like she was floating. That way his eyes glittered when he made love to her. She wept for almost an hour.
The morning of the memorial was irritatingly bright and sunny. Ashley dressed in simple black, pulling her hair up in a knot and covering her face with large dark sunglasses. Bruce met her at the cemetery, his garb respectfully somber he took her hand and walked with her across the grass.
They moved silently to the edge of the gathered people, she leaned against Bruce taking comfort in his strong shoulder. Ashley looked around making note of who was there, avoiding the pack of the reporters snapping pictures and taking their own notes.
Ashley saw Lana standing with some other people; that same couple from the wedding and a pretty, blond girl. She assumed they were there to represent Smallville. Briefly, she wondered where the best friend who pulled Lex from the river was.
Lionel stepped up in front of the headstone that bore Lex's name; his face wore a different mask of grief today. He began to go on about the loss of his son and how no parent should have to go thru that. He went on about Lex's destiny and what the world had lost in him. She was sure she would puke if went on much longer, the pompous windbag.
Then he was suddenly silenced by the appearance of Helen, a.k.a. 'The Grieving Widow'. She placed flowers in the bronze vase, then she and Lionel had words. They were arguing that was obvious. Lionel left in a huff and Ashley felt a begrudging bit of admiration for Helen, she had chased the old fuck off.
Bruce brought her back to the penthouse and they sat on the balcony and shared a scotch in memory of Lex. Bruce stayed for a while but had to get back, there was a new criminal mind at work in Gotham. A peculiar man they called The Penguin.
"You going to be alright, Kid?" he asked as she walked him to the door. She smiled and nodded. He kissed her on the forehead and was off.
xxxxxxx
Two Days Later: Ashley's Penthouse
"Ok, Sunshine. Lets see how you like being a dark haired beauty." Vi said toweling the damp hair and turning Ash to face the mirror. The thick ribbons of hair fell around her face, deep, dark and black. Vi had suggested a change would make her feel refreshed, she knew leaving behind her trademark garnet locks and making them raven wing black would cause a stir among the gossips. Vi thought with Ashley's porcelain skin tone and her green eyes the black would be stunning, and once again, Vi was right.
Once Ash's hair was dried, Vi styled it with huge fat curls like a renaissance angel. As Vi was spraying the curls to set them, Ashley's cell phone rang. She rolled her eyes and reached for the silver rectangle.
"Probably Max checking in on me like he has done everyday since I got here." She said flipping the phone open and answering it.
"Ash, have you seen the news?" it was Bruce and he sounded off kilter. Ashley felt alarm clutch her guts and she moved to the TV.
"No I have not Bruce, what's happened now?" she asked flipping the stations to CNN. If Vi had not been standing next to her, Ashley would have fallen on her ass when her knees buckled. The two girls stared at the news report with revolving emotions.
"That's right, once again, Billionaire Lex Luthor has been found, alive and well. A fishing boat saw smoke coming from the uninhabited island where Luthor had been for the passed three months. He has suffered from a bout with malaria and severe exposure, the LuthorCorp heir has returned to his home in Smallville to recover." The reporter smiled and turned to his colleague. "Does this guy have nine lives or what?"
Ashley sat on her bed, the relief that flooded her was very similar to the madness she had felt when she had her breakdown. Could it be a sick joke? No, Lex was alive.
After she had finally accepted his death, he was alive and home. Ashley began to giggle like a little girl, the giggles got stronger and she was laughing. She rolled on the bed clutching her sides, as the laughter became tears, but not sad tears. Sad was about the furthest thing from where she was. Lex was alive, that was all she could think.
xxxxxx
Two Weeks Later: Smallville: Luthor Mansion
Indian Summer had wrapped its long, hot fingers around the state of Kansas and held it tight like a child unwilling to surrender a sweet. The heat made everyday activities hard to accomplish. People and animals found it easier to shelter in the shade when the sun rose to it height.
Clark was glad he had a friend like Lex, with his own Olympic size swimming pool. Lex had invited him over for a midmorning swim, giving him refreshment just when the heat was beginning to get to even him.
They swam for a long time before settling under the arbor on the back lawn;Lex promised the breeze was particularly good there. The chairs were comfortable and there was ice tea. It was the first chance they had to hang out and relax since Lex had returned from the dead. Clark asked him about the crash, curious as to how his indomitable friend handled the crisis.
"You know, Clark." Lex said tipping his head and looking out over the gardens. "I had a thought the other night about how in less then three years I have almost drown twice by being trapped in a disabled vehicle that plunged into a body of water. I realized that both were transforming experiences." Lex looked back at Clark and smirked.
"The first time I'm sure I was dead, but you saved me. I didn't have a chance to think about anything before the crash. So all I have is the feeling of flying and a belief that I got a new start." He paused to sip from his glass. "This time I saw my death coming and had time to think. Many people wonder what or whom they would think of when faced with their demise. Yet there it was and I was amazed that only two people came to mind as the jet slammed into the water. I saw two beautiful women's faces and it made me fight to survive, if only to honor their place in my heart" He looked away in thoughtful silence for a moment and Clark nodded his head.
"Your mom and Helen." Clark stated and Lex chuckled. The boy looked at him with puzzlement.
"Well, your half right Clark. One of them was my mother... the other however was not Helen." His tone was even and he watched the thoughts play across Clark's face. The dark head dipped as Clark figured out whom Lex was talking about.
"Oh." he said his voice low and wondering. There was a small pause. "Y-you've never talked about... her." Clark looked up at his friend, Lex made a face that said he was thinking about Clark's statement.
"Your right, Clark, I haven't." he said leaning his head back on the chair. Clark felt there was more Lex wanted to say but he was unsure of how to say it.
Clark knew about Ashley, it was common knowledge really. Plus, when Lex had come to Smallville, Clark's best friend Chloe in her usual passion for knowing all had dug up everything she could on Lex.
Clark had sat next to her in the Torch office, reading over her shoulder, all the gory details of his new friend's life. Clark had felt like he was prying and wanted her to let it go, but she clicked the next link and there were pictures of Lex and Ashley.
"Holy cow, I completely forgot he was with her!" Chloe had cried and looked at him with wide eyes. His curiosity getting the better of his judgment Clark had let her continue, the images of Lex and Ashley were rather telling. The Lex seen in them was different some how; there was one that caught Clark's attention the most, it was compelling.
A candid shot of the couple in what looked like a parking lot, they were standing facing each other Lex had her face in his hands and he was smiling. Ashley's arms were around his waist she smiled as well. The adoration that was apparent in the photo made Clark feel like a voyeur, he made Chloe stop her googleing and let it go.
"It was bad?" asked Clark with sudden boldness. Lex turned his head and looked at the younger man sideways. Clark flushed and tried to explain. "I mean, yeah I am sure it was hard...I ..I just mean was it so bad that you never talk to her or about her?" the innocence on Clark's face made Lex sigh and he straightened up.
"My father saw to it that Ashley and I broke up. He did a very thorough job. He made her believe I had betrayed her, she could not get over it." Lex's voice was bitter. Clark pushed a little more.
"So you haven't spoken to her since you broke up? Not once?" the boy was unbelieving. Lex chuckled again and raised an eyebrow.
"Actually she was at the wedding." He said. Clark was shocked; he looked at Lex with bug eyes. "Yeah that was another thing you missed, she came with her cousin Bruce Wayne. Was a big surprise to me. Boy, Helen was pissed off!" He laughed sarcastically. Clark still stunned, blinked and leaned back in his seat.
"Did you talk to her?" he asked. Lex narrowed his eyes at the boy, wondering what was his interest in this aspect of Lex's life.
"Yes I did." He said. Clark was well past being subtle.
"And..." he prompted.
"She was still sweet, still drop dead gorgeous. I was a bit of a prick, I startled her by sneaking up behind her." he looked at his friend and knew what he was fishing for. "Clark, this not a fairytale. She came to say goodbye." His tone dropped and he looked away. Clark felt bad for his friend, he had an idea though.
"Maybe you should call her... I mean now that your back and not...married anymore." He gave a sheepish smile. Lex laughed and shook his head.
"Why would I do that?" he asked as a small voice deep inside perked up at the suggestion and began whispering. Clark shrugged his huge shoulders and smiled wider.
"I dunno maybe to see if she will talk to you...maybe wants to see you?" he offered, Lex snorted and shook his head.
"Clark Kent, you are a hopeless romantic. I highly doubt she wants to see me. Ashley does not want to get a call from me..." He let his words trail off and Clark hid a satisfied smirk.
Lex did not look so certain now; he looked like he was considering the idea. My work here is done, the boy thought humorously.
"Ok, Lex if that's how you feel." Clark stood up. "I gotta get back, more work to do. Thanks for the swim." He grinned his blinding grin and trudged off. Lex watched the boy go and cursed silently.
How did he do that? How could he be so unassuming yet insightful at the same time?
Lex leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. Since his return to civilization, he had found it hard to be in doors for long periods of time. The shrinks said it was to be expected. He would adjust in time; he just needed to give himself a chance.
He let his thoughts drift to her, thanks to Clark's pushing he could not help it. What would she say if he were to call her? What had she thought, felt, when the world assumed he was dead? He still wanted to ask her about the red dress...that was something that gave him the slightest glimmer of hope. Maybe Clark had the right idea, maybe he should test the waters were Ashley was concerned. The real question was could he take it if she rejected him?
He did not know.
xxxxxxx
Same Day: Metropolis: Ashley's Penthouse
The heat hung on the city in an oppressive cloud. The waves rippled off the pavement, children busted open fire hydrants and danced in the spray. Ashley stood on her balcony, though she was above the bustle and the rush the heat was still thick.
The short linen skirt brushed the tops of her thighs and the skimpy cotton top left he midriff bare to what cool air there was but still she was sweltering. Her newly ebony hair was pulled up and pinned to the top of her head, relieving her neck from the weight and heat it tended to trap against her skin.
She sighed, she was so bored. Turning her back to the city leaning on the railing, she looked at the wide expanse of cement. The memory came up uncalled for, she was overwhelmed by the tangibility of it.
That afternoon they had christened the penthouse.
She could feel his hands on her skin, his lips on her mouth. She had sat astride him in a chair, the synchronism of their movements drawing perfect ecstasy from them. Every gasp, every moan as he thrust further into her. She could smell him, hear his voice, feel his breath on her neck. Ashley felt dizzy from the desire that blossomed in her belly.
She shook herself and moved back into the penthouse. The glass door swished shut behind her and she felt the cool air conditioning raise goose bumps on her skin. She shook her head once more and paced around the room.
It was a crazy idea, what had possessed her to even think it? But what if the pull she felt was not her imagination? This was insane, she could not do this. She was telling herself that she would not do it even as she packed a bag and grabbed her attaché case.
She was in the garage before she realized it, looking at her red Mercedes, she gave in deciding to just go with it. Before she could think again, she tossed her bags in the back seat and put the top down. Sliding behind the wheel, she turned the engine over. Gripping the steering wheel, she took a deep breath and set off.
She drove straight thru downtown and crossed the bridge with the wind cooling her skin. She put Green Day in the CD player and drove, her mind waffling back and forth over what she was doing.
She should have called, what was she doing? Not wanting to face the feeling and madness she was giving into, she pushed her logic aside. She stopped her wondering and sang along with the music.
Almost four hours later, she was lost. She had driven around the back roads of Smallville looking for the Luthor Castle. Why was it hard to find? How did one miss an entire castle?
She was hot and thirsty; frustration was getting the better of her. She drove into the quaint downtown and found a coffee house. The Talon glittered in the high sun; she had a fearful moment wondering if this was the same coffee house Lana Lang ran for Lex. Her need of an iced latte out weighted her apprehension.
She grabbed her purse and pulled out a pair of black eyeglasses. She slipped them on her face and exited the car.
The interior of the talon was cool and sparsely peopled. Ashley guessed it was too hot for many people to hang out in the local coffee house.
Looking around at the interior design she made her way to the back. She walked to the counter and set her bag on top. She waited for the blond behind the counter to notice her.
She ordered a hazelnut iced latte and spread her map out on the glass. This was ridiculous, why could she not find it? Maybe, a dark voice from inside her spoke up, maybe you are not supposed to be here that's why you cannot find it.
"Excuse me, you wouldn't know how to get to 2116 Beresford Lane would you?" she asked the girl. The coffee clerk gave her a shocked look and Ashley felt someone walk up on her left.
"What do you want with Lex?" a deep voice asked. "Are you a reporter?" Ashley turned and looked up and up some more. She looked into the eyes of a beautiful young man. Tall, dark and handsome, with eyes like the Indian Ocean.
Ashley was struck speechless. His face was serious and expressed his distrust of her. She gasped a little and stepped back. His eyes narrowed and he searched her face.
Just as quickly, as he had approached her a bright blush spread over his cheeks and his eyes got big. That broke her awe and she smiled. He looked around them furtively and leaned on the counter.
"I'm sorry, I didn't recognize you, the glasses threw me. Wow... so yeah..." he spoke in a whispered rush making her giggle. Ash reached out a hand and patted his arm.
"It's ok. You are actually the first person to recognize me with them on. It's kind of weird how they work." She confided in him. "Well, you know my name I see, why don't you tell me yours?" she gave him a bigger smile and he blushed again.
"Ah yeah sorry I'm Clark Kent." He held out his hand to shake and she did. A knowing look crossed her face.
"That explains why you are suspicious of people looking for the Luthor castle." She said folding her map back up. Clark looked even more embarrassed.
"Y-you know m-my name?" he stammered. She nodded and chuckled.
"Yes I read the news article on how you saved him from the river." She winked. "Quite the hero aren't you?" she teased him likening how easily he flushed. The girl brought her drink and Ashley paid for it. She took a big sip and relished the replenishing of her caffeine.
Clark watched her for moment and wondered if her being there was due to Lex having taken his advice, it warranted some investigation. She was prettier in person then she was on TV and very nice so far. He was beginning to see what his friend had liked about her. Clark cleared his throat and smiled a big smile.
"So you are going to the castle?" he asked Ashley looked at him out of the corner of her eye.
"Only if I can find it. That last time I was here I did not do the driving and I was a little..." She stopped it was her turn to blush. What the hell was she doing here? Why had she let herself get this far, this was stupid. Clark laughed and leaned a little closer.
"You were what?" he wanted to know what would make a rock star blush. She sighed and shook her head biting at her lip.
"I was a little drunk. It was a very difficult day for me." She said looking him in the eye. His face grew soft and she could see him sympathize. Oh So not what she needed right now, a sensitive beautiful farm boy.
"Yeah I can imagine." He said softly. He could see she was getting uneasy so he changed the subject. "I can show you how to find the castle if you like." He offered. Ashley shook out of her inner thoughts and looked around a few times.
"You know, Clark, I may have made a big mistake. I think I am just going to go home." She began to gather her things and Clark was dismayed.
"What...but I thought you were going...to see ...Lex." he asked following her as she headed for the door. Ash laughed nervously and shook her head once more.
"I don't know what I was thinking just driving here. I have no idea what he will say when I just show up." She was out the door and on the sideway, the bright sun temporarily blinding her. Ash looked up at him and gave him a fake grin.
"Can I ask you not to tell anyone I was here?" she asked Clark shook his head.
"Ashley- can I call you that?" he asked his mother's manners breaking in. she nodded and looked at the pavement.
"I think you should go and see him. He could really use a friend right now." Clark said hoping she would listen. Ashley looked up at him and shrugged.
"Hasn't he got you?" she asked Clark pursed his lips and sighed.
"I'm not that kinda friend." He said and they blushed in tandem. Clark held out a hand and made an offer.
"Look, give me a ride home and I will show you how to find the mansion. It's not far from my family's farm." She looked at his earnest face and thought quickly. Giving in to her first instinct, she shook his hand and they headed for the red car.
Ashley dropped her bag in the back and motioned him to get in. Clark folded his long frame into the small seat and she laughed, it sounded like bells to him.
"There is a slide lever between your feet." She said and he reached down to release the catch. The seat shot back and he was able to sit normally. She turned the key and revved the engine.
"This is a nice car." He said with the biggest smile she had ever seen. She cocked her head.
"Gift from a mutual friend." She replied. Clark laughed
"Yeah that sounds like Lex, he wanted to give me a truck after I pulled him out of the river." He said she smiled and shifted in to first. She looked at him again and snickered.
"He also taught me how to drive." She said and peeled out. Clark grabbed the dashboard and laughed nervously.
"Yeah I coulda guessed that."
xxxxxx
The sun had begun its downward trek as the red car sped down the dusty road. Clark looked at Ashley and raised his voice over the hum of the engine.
"So you just jumped in the car and drove here without letting anyone know?" he asked good-naturedly. She nodded, the wind whipping the long locks, which had escaped her clip, around her face.
"Got this weird feeling that I needed to see him." She flushed and looked away. "Crazy huh?" he looked at the fields as they flew by and shook his head.
"Not really, I bet he will be very happy to see you." Clark replied. Ash listened to the casual tone in his voice and felt he knew more.
"Is there something you know that you are not saying, Clark?" she turned her bright green gaze on him and he gave her an innocent look.
"I...I... just know that Lex has been down...you know...Helen and all that." He noticed her stiffen at the mention of the woman's name. He instantly felt bad. She probably did not want to hear about Lex's wife, that was a dumb move, Kent. He cleared his throat and tried again.
"I mean he has been different since he got back. And I think he could use a visit from an old friend, like you." He knew it sounded so incredibly lame but it was all he had. Ash shook her head and drove on.
When they reached the Kent farm, the sky was turning multicolored and Clark had a much deeper understanding of why this girl stood out in Lex's heart. She was funny and beautiful and she had been nothing but nice to Clark the whole ride home. As they pulled up in front of the lovely yellow farmhouse, he turned to her with another silly grin. He felt bad about it but he had to ask.
"Ashley...I have this friend. Her name is Chloe and we have been having a kinda hard time lately...and I was hoping..." he pulled a paper napkin from the Talon out of his pocket. "Could you give me your autograph for her?" he was bright pink and had to cast his eyes at the wadded paper in his large hand. She laughed and again it was musical to his ears.
"You know Clark, usually when guys ask me for an autograph for a 'friend', I know they full of shit. Yet somehow, when you ask I know there really is a friend." Her smiled drew the dazzling grin from him and she patted away the napkin. "But I think I can do better then that." She said and pulled the emergency break.
Before he knew it she had slipped her shoulders between the seats and was twisting around behind him, digging for something. Clark sucked in a deep breath as the bare expanse of her abdomen was brought scant inches from his arm. She shimmied and wiggled trying to find whatever she was searching for and the short skirt slipped dangerously high up her thighs. Clark though he caught a flash of white satin and turned his eyes to the window.
Oh man did he have a very clear idea of what else Lex loved about her. But he 'was' a teenage boy and despite his best intentions he looked again. The long muscles of her dancer's legs flexed and moved, her belly was taut and tone, skin looked so soft.
He pinched the bridge of his nose; try to stave off the heat that was building behind his eyes. He thought of his mom baking pies, fishing with his dad, nuns walking puppies anything other then the incredibly sexy rock star that was almost in his lap. His brain popped up with interesting facts he really didn't need like that she was only three years older the him, he could give her directions that took her in a circle and make up some other story.
What! Clark get it together! What in God's name are you thinking? I'm not, that's the problem.
Before he could do or think anything else stupid she slipped back into her seat, a glossy color photo and a thick pen in her hand.
"Sorry that took so long, but my bag was jammed behind the seat. Now you said her name was Chloe, right?" She chuckled and uncapped the pen. He watched her write on the photo.
Once she finished, she blew on the ink to dry it then shifted the picture behind a second one he had not noticed, she wrote in it as well. Then she blew it dry too and returned the first one to the top. She handed him the pictures.
"There, one for Chloe and one fore you." She smiled and he took the photos thanking her. He slowly climbed out of the car and stood next to it for a moment. He wanted to say something witty but felt it was wrong, knowing that she was going to his best friend. Knowing that she would most likely become Lex's lover once more, before the night was over. The though brought flames to his cheeks again and he could not look at her. Ash did not seem to notice his discomfort as she released the break.
"Thank you again Clark, if I had not run into you I would have gone home." She said earnestly. Clark wasn't so sure he was completely happy with himself but shook off the hormones and gave her the directions to the castle. She thanked him again and blew him a kiss. With a wave and a scattering of gravel, she was gone.
He looked at the pictures in his hands, reading her words to Chloe.
"To Chloe, a girl with great taste in friends, Ashley Embers." He smiled, that would make the little blond dance with glee, and he knew it. Flipping to the bottom one, he read it.
"To Clark Kent, I hope our paths will cross again one day, Love Ashley" Clark beaming, turned and walked into the house.
xxxxxx
Lex found himself walking down the center of a deserted road; the sky was gray and bleak. As he trudged he felt the hot air searing his lungs and he searched for a way out of the oppressive atmosphere.
Suddenly Clark was standing before him, only he was different, his face had more edges, his brows were furrowed and he looked stern.
"Lex, you must make a choice." He said in a voice that echoed around them. He pointed to Lex's right, Lex turned to see what he indicated.
There was a field of glittering meteor rocks that was cut by a silver path. The path lead to two enormous towers that stuck blade like into the sky. Around the bottoms of the towers, there were piles of money, gold, and lightning split the clouds, Lex felt a chill. Looking back at Clark as he pointed to the left.
Lex saw the lawns of the castle, green and lush and a figure approached them. As it got closer Lex could tell it was Ashley, the way he always remembered her in his mind.
In that white sundress, her hair like coiled fire around her face, the way she looked when he proposed. She continued to approach, her bare feet sinking into the thick carpet of grass. He watched her belly swell until she was the picture of motherhood. She smiled and held out her hand to him.
He looked at Clark again and tried to speak but his voice would not work. Clark stood straight and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Choose, Lex. Either the answers to all your questions and the culmination of your ambitions. Or, the love of this woman and all the gifts she can bestow on you." His voice reverberated inside Lex's head.
Suddenly Clark was gone and he was standing in the road alone. He turned to move toward Ashley, she waited for him. But his feet would not move. He looked down and found they were stuck in the pavement as if the cement had been poured over them and left to dry. He pulled with all his might and he could hear Ashley scream.
"Lex, look out!" he turned to look over his shoulder and saw the blazing headlights of a speeding train. Just as the train was about to mow him down, Lex shook awake.
He was in his bedroom, shivering and sweating in the early twilight's heat. Sitting up he held his head in his hands and tried to make sense of the dream.
The images had been so vivid and tangible. He sighed, standing slowly and making his way to the bathroom, he splashed some cold water on his face. Looking in the mirror he determined he would take his dinner outside, the indoors were getting to him.
He walked down to the patio, sat in the gradually cooling air, and let his mind settle.
xxxxxx
Robert Phillips was one of the people happiest about Lex's return from the dead. In the three months Lex was gone, Robert had chaffed under the employment of Helen, or as he liked to call her, The Capitol C.
Now that Lex was back and she was gone, Robert was head of security once more. He would do whatever Lex needed him to do as long as he never had to work for -that woman' again.
He didn't even mind pulling the evening shift with the rookie, gave him time to reflect. When the small red Mercedes came cruising down the road, he could not believe his eyes.
"Hot Damn!" He said under his breath. He knew this car and as it pulled up next to the guard booth the girl smiling at him from behind the wheel made him grin in return.
"Well Robert Phillips, it's good to see you! How have you been?" Ashley said leaning over the side of the car. He stepped down to speak with her.
"I am well. It's very good to see you, Ashley." He paled for a second. "I mean Miss Embers." He was appalled at his lack of formality. She laughed and swatted at him.
"Robert, don't be silly, if there is anyone who can use my first name it's you." She said with a shake of her head. She looked toward the castle and then back at the guard. "Is he home?" her eyes flashed at Phillips and he nodded.
"Yes, he has been home all day." He replied. She reached out a hand and grasped his.
"Robert, I want to surprise him. Will you help me?" she fluttered her lashes at him and tried not to blush. He smirked and nodded.
"For you Ashley, I will do that. Drive up to the front, I will have Darius meet you." She squeezed his hand and giggled.
"Thank you, Robert. It really is great to see you." She said and he waved her thru the gates. The new guard stepped next to Phillips and looked stunned.
"Was that really..." he started to say and Robert interrupted him
"Yes, it was." He smiled and thought his boss was going to be one happy man.
xxxxxxx
Ash parked her car near the front door and smiled at the large dark skinned man who stepped forward to help her with her bags. He led her inside thru the vast foyer, down a long hall to a large room, he pointed to the French doors that were open to catch the evening breeze.
"Mr. Luthor is on the patio. Will there be anything else, Miss?" he asked politely. She shook her head and thanked him. He left her standing in the middle of the room.
Ashley felt like her lungs had stopped working, her heart was pounding in her temples. She could see him silhouetted against the darkening sky.
Did she make the right choice? Would he be happy to see her as Clark had assured her? There was only one way to find out. She slipped her sandals off and padded toward him on bare feet.
Lex watched the evening roll across the Kansas countryside, it was a magnificent sight. He sighed in frustration and indecision, she kept coming to mind, the dream had felt so real. He could feel her in the dream, her presence, and her spirit.
Suddenly the scent of lilacs and spices filled his senses, his stomach clenched and he felt his body harden in response. He had to be hallucinating. A hand came down on his shoulder and he was sure he was dreaming again.
"Good to see you alive, Slick." her smoky voice ran up his spine. He was afraid for a moment to turn and look at her. He had imagined her so many times, always been disappointed that it was just his fantasy. Testing the waters, his hand found the one on his shoulder, and he turned his eyes to the woman standing at his side.
She was there, she was real and he sucked in a breath. This was not a dream or his mind playing tricks, Ashley was there.
She had a small funny smile on her lips, she was windblown and exquisite, and her face was with out make up, her natural beauty all she really needed.
He stood up quickly and stared at her, plainly too stunned to speak. She felt frightened suddenly, his silence making her second-guess her choice to come.
Maybe he was still angry about her leaving him. But God, was he beautiful, he was dressed in light linen in deference to the hanging heat. The fabric clung to his body leaving no guessing as to how tone his abs were. Ashley licked her lips because her mouth was suddenly very dry. He blinked and held out a hand to her
"You're really here?" he asked, she nodded. There were several long seconds as they continued to stare into each others eyes. He shook himself and grabbed her hand pulling her into his arms. His mouth found hers and he delved deep into a sweetness he never thought to taste again.
She kissed him back her knees giving out a little and she clung to him as if no time had passed at all, her body pressing to his. As the kiss ended his hands moved up to her face mapping every inch and on into her hair. His eyes traveled over the dark strands in his fingers.
"Do you like it?" she whispered. He looked back into her eyes and nodded, his fingers tracing the edges of her lips.
"I cannot believe you're here." He whispered back. He kissed her again, this time with more passion, pushing her against the stone wall of the castle. The longing he felt for her was almost painful, making him insistent.
Now his hands had a mind of their own, roaming down her mostly exposed flesh. Her own hands slipped under the light tee shirt and around to his back trailing over the warm skin. Their hips ground into each other, making her gasp at the rub. His fingers closed around her breasts and he dragged him thumbs across her nipples, which stood erect to his touch.
She hissed against his lips and he laughed a little. He pulled his head back and looked at her, her face flushed and glistening in the light filtering from inside. He had a thought and placed a nipping kiss on her lips before grasping her by the hand and pulling her into the open air.
They walked thru the vast gardens, the air thick with the scent of herbs and flowers. She followed his lead, not knowing where he was taking her.
Lex brought her to the rose garden, guiding a path to a shadowed corner under the rose arbor. He pulled Ashley down on the grass with him. Lex studied her face in the rising moonlight, she was nervous he could read it in her green eyes. He had to know, the need pushing him to break the silence.
"Ashley, why did you come to me?" he asked in a hushed voice. Ash shuddered and bit her lip. She reached her hands out to clasp his.
"I just felt the need to see you, it was as if I could feel you pulling on me." She said casting her gaze away as if she was embarrassed.
A strong wave of lust rolled up from his groin, making he almost dizzy with the intensity. He let his fingertips run down the length of her arm, her skin moist and heated.
"I guess I was." He confessed in a breathy voice. "You have been on my mind all day." He moved closer to her never breaking eye contact. Gently he found the edge of her top and drew it over her head. Her milk white skin glowed in the silvery light, he leaned over to place his lips on the rise of her breast.
The tenderness in his action making her sigh deeply. Ashley brought her hands up to cup the back of his head, holding him to her chest. Tasting the salt and sweet of her skin he moved his lips over her, tongue making lazy circles.
His hands pushing her shoulders down on the grass, he covered her body with his. His knee pressing between her legs with slow pressure, while his mouth feasted on her neck. Her hands pulling at the fabric over his torso needing to feel his skin against hers, she fought with the shirt pulling and twisting it up and out of her way.
Lex sat back on his heels and tore the shirt off, looking down at her spread out before him; he felt a want so sharp it made the breath hitch in his lungs. How many times since she left had he wanted her, needed to feel her beneath him? She was finally here, in the flesh and he was going to make it worth the trip.
"Is this what you came here for?" he asked his thoughts getting dark for a moment. She propped her body up on her elbows and gave him an honest look.
"I didn't know what I came here for, Lex. I just wanted to be with you." She said and he moved back down to her.
His kisses drawing gasps due to their depth, he slid his hands under the small skirt and caressed her hipbones searching for the edges to the fabric that kept her sex from him. He wanted to remember everything about her, touch every part he could, taste her; know her as he had in the past.
He found the elastic and pushed his fingers underneath, she was wet and hot already. She moaned as he brushed the swollen nub with his fingertip, he moved his mouth to her hard pink nipple and drew it into his mouth. His finger moved more forcefully over her clit.
The duel sensations made her squirm and buck, Lex let his fingers delve lower and into her velvet channel while keeping his thumb on her button. Ashley moaned in that one way he loved, his fingers moved deeper into her.
Not wanting to be out done she slid her hands down his chest and let one small palm slide into his pants. He felt her heated hand wrap around his shaft and he groaned against her breast.
She stroked him deftly knowing just what he liked, never having forgotten. He circled her nipple once more before claiming her mouth again. Every time her hand moved down his cock, his tongue thrust deeper into her mouth while his fingers moved vigorously into her.
He could feel her tighten and relax and tighten again as she approached climax. Her hand slowed as the wave took over; she shuddered and let out the sweetest sound Lex had ever heard.
Unable to take much more foreplay, he pulled away again and removed his pants. Ashley still dazed with her orgasm, moved slower and he had to help her pull the white satin panties off.
He did not give her a chance to remove the skirt, he grabbed her knees and shifted his hips between her thighs. She felt him push into her with a swift and deep thrust. The stretch was almost too much, she had not been with any men since him and he set a rapid tempo. She cried out her head thrown back against the earth.
She dug her nails into his shoulders while her buried himself in her to the hilt over and over again. His breath was short he felt as if he had come home, as if this was where he belonged, right here inside this fragile woman in his arms.
Lex moved his hands up into her long now dark hair and pulled tight, knowing she liked it. He bit her on the crux of her neck and shoulder, hearing her gasp in his ear and she lifted her hips to catch his thrusts.
He plunged his hips with growing passion, the prickling sensation rushing over his skin and she pulsed around him again her second climax rushing in fast. He watched as the orgasm shook her, holding his own off only long enough to witness the lovely expression on her face.
She wrapped her arms and legs around him in a fierce grip as the ecstasy rippled thru her in continuous waves. Lex followed right behind her, groaning and calling her name as he pressed his face to her neck and came violently inside her.
They held on and road the falling sensation to it's end. Lex breathing hard against her shoulder as he sought air for his deprived lungs. She feathered her fingers over his back making delicate designs in the perspiration between his shoulders.
Lex raised his head and kissed her with great tenderness. His hands finally letting go of her hair, his fingers trailing down her face and neck to her shoulders.
"Ashley...Oh God how I have longed for you." He confessed, feeling like he had to tell her everything that was in his heart tonight. Her lips pressed together as she tried to hold back the sob that was forcing its way out. The tears slipped from the corners of her eyes and he was dismayed.
"No baby, don't...don't cry." He said before kissing the wetness from her face. "You're here now...that's all that matters to me." He whispered. She smiled thru her tears and held his face in her long fingers.
"Lex, I thought you were dead, it nearly killed me." She said in a broken voice. He closed his eyes and pressed his forehead to hers.
"But I'm not, and one of the reasons I am not is because of you. I knew I had to get back to you one last time." He said realizing he was still inside her; he shifted his hips and moved to lay next to her in the soft grass. He ran his fingers over her belly and smiled.
"You're here now and I am not letting you get away again." He replied. Ashley looked at him and was torn by his words; she was both delighted and terrified by them. That made her feel very odd indeed.