Chapter 2: Smallville, 1993
The dusty road stretches out before Bruce as the Thunderbird cruises into Smallville. The town seems to be frozen in time, with its quaint buildings and a bustling main street lined with local businesses. It's a far cry from the towering skyscrapers and flashing neon lights of Gotham.
Bruce steps out of the car, feeling the warmth of the sun on his face. He takes in the sights and sounds of Smallville, observing the townsfolk going about their daily routines. There's a genuine sense of community here. He doesn't know what to make of it.
As he walks down the sidewalk, Bruce's attention is drawn to a group of kids playing baseball in a nearby field. Their laughter and carefree spirit fills the air, echoing with an innocence he hasn't witnessed in a long time. It's a stark contrast to the brisk businessmen and shady crooks back in Gotham.
Lost in his thoughts, Bruce narrowly avoids bumping into someone, snapping back to reality. He looks over his shoulder to see a young boy, about his age, with a friendly smile and a plaid shirt. "Sorry about that, didn't see you there," the boy says with a genuine warmth in his voice.
Bruce shakes his head politely. "No worries," he replies, mustering a polite smile for a moment as he walks briskly past. There was something about that encounter that felt… different.
Bruce shakes his head once he turns the next corner, in an attempt to focus his thoughts. Too many new things, new people, new sights, new smells, new thoughts, new- Bruce realizes he's on the ground in an alley, hyperventilating. His anxiety attacks always happen at the worst times, he reflects dryly.
The boy from earlier jogs over. He says something, but Bruce can't tell what it is. He asks a question. Bruce looks down and tries to wave him off with a hand. The boy shakes his head and helps Bruce stand, although it's more like forcing him to. He stays there, holding Bruce up, until Bruce finally slows his breathing and calms down enough to stand on his own.
The boy steps back when Bruce pushes him away, accepting the boundary. He introduces himself as Clark, and asks if Bruce wants a friend. Bruce hesitates for a moment, but something about Clark seems trustworthy. He agrees, curious to explore this new world of Smallville. A guide through this new environment is invaluable, Bruce knows.
But maybe, just maybe, he'd rather have a friend.