Chapter 2

Clark was just finishing up for the day and was about to head home, when Lois walked into his office. She had a rather smug smile on her face, so Clark just waited for her to spill whatever it was.

"Another fluff piece on the lady juggler, huh, Clark? That's really some ace reporting you're doing. I was wondering why she would come to see you, but now it makes sense."

"She's a magician, Lois," Clark corrected her.

"Oh, touchy, touchy, have a little crush on her, do you," Lois teased.

"Sorry to disappoint you, Lois, but it's just a story," Clark replied, shutting down his computer and slipping on his jacket.

"Oh, come on, Smallville, I was just having some fun with you. I mean anyone can see she's way out of your league," Lois continued.

"Thanks, Lois, you're always such a boost to my confidence," Clark sarcastically responded.

"No offense."

"How could I be offended? I'm just a hick for some farm town, right," Clark flatly said, ushering her out of his office and locking the door. As he started for the elevator, Lois followed not wanting to let it go.

"Oh, come on, Clark, I didn't mean it that way," she said, defending herself. "It's just this is the big city. She's a glamorous star, a celebrity, you know what they're like. You wouldn't have a chance with someone like her. You know the type, only interested in appearance, the fame, and the celebrity."

"So the fact that she came by today to say thank you, that's just part of some clever plan of hers, right," Clark asked, as he pressed the elevator button and waited for the car to arrive.

"Absolutely! She's not interested in the real people, only the famous. They're all like that, shallow," Lois smugly informed him at the elevator arrived and the doors opened.

"Sort of like someone that's only interested in a hero in a cape, huh," Clark said with a smile and then got on the elevator. Before Lois could find the words, the doors closed and then elevator started down.

"Clark!" she screamed in frustration, banging her fists against the metal doors.

The Watchtower

Clark had just finished his shift and was having a cup of coffee before he went home for the night. He'd helped contain a forest fire and rescued a few homeowners caught in the blaze, so it had been a good few hours. He always liked this time of night on the Watchtower. There was a natural rhythm to the station as heroes came and left. Maybe it was because of the natural of his powers, Clark always felt apart from most people. It made him a people watcher by habit. Perhaps that was one of the reasons he was drawn to journalism. Sitting there, Clark thought of Lois. She was one of the most generous, decent and brave people he knew; yet in the same instance, she was also a pain in the ass, sometimes riding roughshod over anyone and everyone. She was such a strange mix of both loveable and annoying traits. She'd been in his corner when that wasn't the popular thing to do. He could never repay her for believing in him when it seemed the whole world was against him. She had been willing to look past all the mounting evidence and believe in him. She'd risked her life and most likely being charge with treason to do it. It was that fearlessness and trust that made him think perhaps he was in love with her. Strangely, she could see past all that to the truth, but she couldn't see past a suit and a pair of glasses. Appearances could be such a tricky thing, especially for Clark. That was what still fueled his anger at Darkseid, more than just being used it. The trust he'd worked so hard to build up was ripped away in an instant. You never realize just how important it is to be trusted until it's gone, he sadly thought. Because of that, or more accurately, because of their lack of trust in him, Cadmus had been created, along with Doomsday. How many lives had been altered because of his mistake? Looking at his fellow heroes, he knew they would never accuse him, well, maybe Bruce would, but Clark had to wonder if deep down each one of them still worried about what would happen if he lost control again. Clark was positive Bruce had thought of it. Why else would he still have Kryptonian? He didn't think Clark knew, but it's hard to keep secrets from a man with super hearing and sight. Clark held no grudge, knowing Bruce was just looking out for mankind. That was the legacy Darkseid had left Clark, to never fully be trusted again. He was going to have to spend the rest of his life proving himself over and over. In that one mistake everyone's perception of him changed, perhaps forever.

Perception and appearances, strange how they were shaped. As Clark gazed around the cafeteria, he thought of his teammates. Wally to all outward appearances was the happy go lucky jokester of the group, yet Clark knew there was tragedy in his past that was still shaping him. The perception of Wally was a shallow flirt, but few knew of his charity work or the countless young kids he'd touched by visiting them in the hospitals or shelters. Or Jonn, the rational alien that everyone turned to for help, yet in reality he was a wounded man that time hadn't healed yet. Shayera, to all appearances the fiery warrior, yet few saw the tears she shed when she was alone. She was an exile from her home, and yet many still thought of her as a traitor to this world. Then there was Diana, beautiful immortal Diana. To the entire world she appeared to be a Goddess, endowed with beauty, strength and wisdom from her Gods. Yet wisdom without experience is no wisdom at all. It might take a lifetime for her to understand this strange world she was in. In her island paradise everything probably seemed black and white, good or bad, but out here those distinctions blurred into shades of gray. Then there was Bruce. The noble dark warrior, mysterious and brilliant, feared by criminals and heroes alike. That was his appearance to the world, yet Clark knew Bruce was a deeply scarred man. Part of him disappeared that night in the alley all those years ago. Bruce Wayne had become a façade for the Batman, his true self. There was an epic struggle going on inside of him between light and darkness. Clark feared that one day the darkness would win and Bruce would pull away from all those around him and disappear into the Batman forever.

Finally there was himself, Superman. The original Boy Scout, the farm boy, bland as vanilla ice cream, yet that was only the appearance. Since Darkseid, almost out of necessity, he'd fallen deeper into that persona. He was the harmless friend of everyman, the saver of kittens from trees and the helper of old ladies across streets. That was his fate for now, but Clark also knew that one day he would grow tired of all that. On that day he would be faced with a decision, but that was for another time. Tonight it was home to his drab apartment to catch some sleep before facing another day as mild mannered Clark Kent.

The Daily Planet

Lois was in rare form, as she had the scent of a big story and was checking every possible lead. More than a few people's feelings were hurt by her brutally honest remarks. The one person she wasn't being her irritating self to was Clark. The reason being that it was from his computer she'd gotten the lead to her big story. The amusing part to Clark was that she'd gotten it wrong. When he'd gone to the restroom, she'd slipped into his office and took a quick look through his computer files. Being Lois she hadn't checked the names on them, but only scanned the information. The file that had her so excited was actually just general hodge-podge of unrelated crimes and events that Clark was planning on looking into as Superman. He was going to tell Lois of her mistake, but then he witnessed her reduce another copygirl to tears and decided to wait. Perhaps it was time for Ms. Lane was taught a lesson. This thought kept a smile on Clark's face most of the day. He was just finishing up his research for the interview with Zatanna when Lois popped into his office.

"So, big plans tonight, Smallville,' she asked.

"Nothing too exciting, Lois," Clark said, again getting up from his chair and ushering her out of his office.

"Well, now you do,' she said with a big smile. In her hand she was holding two tickets for tonight's basketball game. "Front row, center court, Clark, it's my way of saying sorry for standing you up the other night."

"I appreciate the offer, but I'm going to have to decline," Clark said with a shake of his head.

"What do you have a hot date or something," she laughed.

"Do I even need to answer that," Clark asked.

"No, don't be silly, of course not. Anyway, these are great tickets, Clark," she said, "I'm even going to go with you this time!"

"As tempting as that offer is, I'm going to still have to decline."

"Oh, come on, Clark, you can TiVo the Matlock reruns for another night, this is center court!"

Clark tried not to let his irritation show, "Again, thanks, but no thanks, Lois."

"Live a little, Smallville," she complained, "I'm trying to do you a favor here. What do you have to do tonight that's so important, a hot story?"

As she said this, the idea that had been rolling around in Clark's mind popped to the surface. It would take a little acting on his part, but this was his chance to teach her a lesson. Spinning around, he grabbed her and pulled her into his office.

"Hey," she protested. Clark glanced back through a crack in the door and then turned to her.

"Sorry about that, but you never know who's listening," he said seriously.

"Who's listening? Are you on some medication, Clark?"

"No, what I'm on is a big, I mean big story," he said in a hush tone to her.

"Really," Lois said, her eyes lighting up. Step one complete, he thought, he had her attention. Now it was time to spin her a story.

"What do you know about…" Clark started and then looked around again, "the Albino?"

"What? The Albi.." Lois started, but then was cut off as Clark put his hand over her mouth.

"Shhh! You never know who's listening," he whispered. He could see the anger in her eyes as he slowly took his hand away.

"What's the Albino," she asked, although her voice was much lower now.

"Not what, who, Lois," Clark told her.

"All right, who's the Albino?"

"Drugs, gambling, extortion, murder, white slavery, he's the invisible hand that stirs the criminal drink in Metropolis."

"Again, I'll ask, are you on some medication," she sarcastically said.

"Laugh if you want, but I've done the research. It's taken months, but I'm getting close. When that Pulitzer is in my hand, you'll remember I told you so," Clark said to her.

"Pulitzer," Lois repeated, her eyes lighting up. Clark smiled to himself, knowing that was the button to push with Lois.

"It's big, Lois, a career maker," he offered.

"Really," Lois said with her best smile. Clark knew he had her now, just by the way she turned on the charm.

"That sounds so exciting, Clark, tell me more."

"It's all in my computer right now, but that's not important right now. I have a problem, Lois," Clark said, shaking his head. "I'm so close, something big is happening tonight, but I've only been able to narrow it down to two possible locations."

"Only two," she said smiling as an idea formed in her head.

"Yes, but what if I guess wrong? I could miss the chance at the story of the decade," he said to her.

"Maybe I could help," she quickly told him.

"I appreciate that, Lois, really I do, but you've got those great tickets and everything. I wouldn't want to ruin your night," Clark said apologetically.

"You wouldn't, I swear! It's the least I can do for a friend," Lois brightly replied.

"Are you sure," he asked.

"Absolutely! So what are the two sites?

"One's down at the fish market and the other is at the landfill," He said trying not to smile as he watched her make her decision.

"I'll take the fish market, Clark! What time is this suppose to go done?"

"Some time after eleven, but are you sure, Lois?"

"Absolutely! Don't you give it another thought, I've got it covered!"

"How will we know which one of us is at the right spot," he asked, even as she was heading for the door.

"I'll text you! Later, Smallville," Lois called over her shoulder as she climbed into the elevator and headed down. If Clark was feeling guilty about pulling the joke on Lois, the sound of her laughing in the elevator and saying the word, "sucker" cured him of that. He headed back to his office grinning from ear to ear.

Tempo Café

It was almost one A.M. as Clark and Zatanna sat laughing in the small café.

"A pig? Are you serious?"

"I saw it myself,' Zatanna nodded her head with a laugh.

"And Bruce singing "Am I Blue?" that's just priceless! I can't wait to use that," Clark chuckled.

"No! You can't, Clark, they'll know it was me that told you," Zatanna warned.

"Maybe I could just hum it as I walk by," he suggested.

"No! Promise me you won't say anything. The last thing I need is Bruce or Diana mad at me," she said.

"Okay, I promise, but you have to admit it's tempting," he smiled.

"Well, you just have to resist temptation, this time," she replied.

"Okay."

"Scout's honor," she asked.

"I was never a scout, Zatanna, but sure, why not," Clark shrugged. She laughed at this and they sat silently as another round of coffee was served. They'd been here since just before eleven and the time had flown by. The interview for the paper was long ago finished, but they were enjoying each other's company so they stayed. Clark thanked the waitress and turned back to Zatanna.

"You know that's the problem with knowing all the good gossip, you can't use it."

"So you like the gossip, Clark? I never pictured you interested in that sort of thing."

" That's why I know it all, I can keep a secret," he laughed.

"How about gossip about you, Clark," Zatanna teased.

"Me? The original Boy Scout, what possible gossip could there be," he teased back.

"Oh, there are some very interesting items out there. Just like the gossip about Bruce and Diana."

"I've heard those already," he admitted.

"I don't think its just gossip, Clark," Zatanna admitted, "I think there might be something there."

"Well, they're both adults."

"So it doesn't bother you," Zee asked.

"No, why should it," he replied.

"Well, some of that gossip is about you being interested and perhaps jealous," she pointed out.

"What? I'm interested in Diana? Sorry to ruin it for you, but that tidbit is off base. We're just friends. She's made her choice pretty clear. I hope if works out for her," he replied.

"I didn't say the gossip was about you being interested and jealous in Diana, Clark," Zee smiled.

"Bruce?" Clark gasped and then broke out into laughter. "Wow, I hadn't heard that one. Again, sorry to disappoint you, but he's not my type. Beside, that fake, gruff voice would get on my nerves after awhile," Clark joked.

"Stay focused on what the mission, Clark," Zatanna said, imitating Bruce perfectly. They both laughed at this.

"Okay, so what about you," Clark smiled.

"What about me?"

"I've head some gossip about you having an interested in Bruce, too," he teased.

"From who," she gasped.

"I told you, I could keep a secret."

"Tell me!" she said, slapping his arm.

"Sorry, can't do it, although I noticed you haven't answered the question."

"That's not fair holding out on me, Clark," she said in disappointment.

"So? Any truth to the gossip?"

"I guess yes and no," she admitted. "I was interested in seeing what could happen, but he wasn't. We're just good friends now. I should have figured out earlier, I've known him forever. I think he still sees me as the same little kid he met way back when."

"Well, it's his lose," Clark offered with a smile.

"So you're really okay with them," she asked, wanting to change the topic away from her.

"Yeah, they're both my friends, so I want them to be happy," he said, "but just between you and me, I don't think it will work out."

"Why?"

"I think the difference that make them attracted to one another will eventually pull them apart. Plus I have this doubt Bruce will take the next step," he seriously told her.

"That does sound like Bruce," she admitted. "Do you think Diana knows that?"

"I doubt it," he shook his head, 'I think we sometimes forget how new she is to this world."

"Right, and she had to fall for Bruce."

"All the pretty ones go for the bad boys," Clark said with a smile.

"Some of them get over that phase, I'll have you know," she replied with a smile of her own. They sat there looking at each other for a moment, neither talking. The sound of Clark's phone vibrating interrupted the moment.

"Saved by the text," he said with relief.

"Is that from your reporter friend," she asked. Clark read the text quickly and then typed a reply.

"Yeah, she doesn't sound too happy."

"Why are you pulling a joke on her again," Zatanna asked.

"Oh, it's a long story, let's just say karma," Clark replied.

"It's that Lois Lane, right? I've heard gossip about you two, but it was about you being interested in her, not this," Zatanna said.

"I don't know how I really feel about Lois," he admitted. "I am attracted to her, yes, but she's only interested in Superman. Don't get me wrong, she's a good hearted person, honest, beautiful, courageous."

"But?"

"But she can also be a bit overbearing. Honesty is one thing, but sometimes the way she says things comes out as cruel. She's driven, but reckless and people get hurt by that."

"Are you speaking from experience," Zee asked.

"Not as much as some," Clark sadly shook his head, "my problem with her is a tad more unique. She's in love with Superman, but can't even see Clark Kent."

"She wants the costume, not the man inside,' Zee nodded in understanding.

"Something like that, but I didn't invite you hear to listen to my problems. I'm sure it will work itself out eventually."

Zatanna could see this bothered him and tried to lighten the mood.

"So let's see, you had her start at the fish market and then sent her to the disco bowling alley. Where do you say your and this phantom criminal were this time?"

"Airport, baggage claim," Clark said with a grin.

"Oh, you have a cruel streak, Clark Kent," Zatanna laughed.

"I figure a night of pointless running around might take some of the steam out of her. Maybe she's let up on some of the staff at the Planet that way," he admitted.

"I could magically make a real albino dash through the airport, if you want," Zee joked.

"I don't want to encourage her," Clark laughed.

"Well, the offer stands."

"I appreciate it."

"I know you're not a fan of magic, but it can come in handy some times."

"You mean outside of your act?"

"I don't use it that much in the act, just for the closer to give it a little something extra."

"There is something I've been wanting to ask you about since the other night," Clark said.

"More questions for the article?"

"No, this is off the record, just between you and me."

"All right," Zee nodded, wondering what he was thinking.

"Seeing you on stage, I couldn't help but notice how confident you were. How in control, yet the times I've seen you on the Watchtower with the league, I never got that impression."

"And you're wondering why," she asked.

"If it's none of my business, just say," he quickly added.

"No, no, its all right. I know what you're talking about," she admitted. "I guess in some ways I'm the opposite of you. On stage in my regular life, if you can call it that, I feel in control, in charge. I've been doing a magic act of one kind or another all my life. I didn't start out to be a hero or anything of like that. My father disappeared and that was the reason I started studying seriously. My only goal was to find him. When I'm with the league, I feel like I'm not sure I really belong. I mean there's all those heroes up there and I'm just a young woman that does magic."

"Zee, you're one of the most powerful members of the League," Clark countered.

"Thanks for saying that, but we both know it's not true," she shook her head. "Whenever magic is involved I'm not the first one that's called. There's Dr. Fate and a whole list of people come to mind. You see, I'm the opposite of you. In my real life I shine, but up there I tend to slip into the background."

"Then we were wrong, Zee, myself included," Clark earnestly said. "We both know how powerful you are. I guess I'm as guilty as the next person; I didn't look past the perception. It's ironic really; here I am complaining about someone now being able to see the real me and I'm guilty of doing the same thing."

"Thank you, but don't beat yourself up about it,' Zatanna smiled. "I kind of let it happen. My powers are affected by my confidence. I guess when I'm with all of you; I'm not the most self-assured person. If I can't even feel confident about myself, how can I ask anyone else to?"

"Well, let's change that right now," Clark smiled. "I see you for who you really are, and I'll always have confidence in you. You have a special gift, if would be a shame to waste it."

"Thank you," Zee said, touched by his words.

"If it helps, I'll always have your back. I am Superman, remember?"

"Name dropper," she said, blushing. Clark laughed and she joined him. She was truly touched by his support. The whole night had been a surprise. Away from the League and just being himself, Clark was a charming, intelligent man. He had been so disarmingly humble and funny; it made him seem very attractive to her. She was starting to wonder what it might be like to get to know him better. Zatanna blushed as she realized what she was thinking. They had been sitting in silence for what seemed like several minutes. Trying to focus on anything other than how attractive he was, she turned her attention to the music playing in the café. A smiled crossed Zatanna's lips as she instantly recognized the tune playing.

"I love this song," she absently said aloud.

"Autumn in New York," Clark guessed.

"Yes! I'm surprise you know it. This is Billie Holiday, it's my favorite version."

"I take it that it brings back good memories," Clark asked.

"Yes, it was my dad's favorite. When I was a little girl, he used to play this and we'd dance," Zee said, a smile coming to her lips at the memory. "I'd stand on his shoes and he'd dance us around the room. I used to feel like I was dancing on air."

"That's nice."

They listened in silence as the warm, intimate sound of the recording filled the café.

"It's kind of bittersweet now," she sadly said. "I miss him so much and this song just reminds me that I'll never get to dance like that again."

In that moment, Clark could feel her loss. He'd lost loved ones and knew the sadness that was plainly written on her face. Before he could talk himself out of it, Clark stood up and reached out his hand to her. Zatanna looked up at him in surprise.

"I can never take his place, Zee, but maybe I can help bring back those feelings. Dance with me?"

"She looked from his offered hand up to his eyes, and saw those sky blues eye looking warmly into hers. She didn't say a word, only nodded and took his hand. He gently eased her feet onto his and then slowly began to move to the music. The world seemed to drift away and Zee smiled as she relived a memory.