Waiting For You
Boston Massachusetts- Bistro du Midi French Restaurant
The look in Kal's eyes. That man has done so much for me. I wasn't angry with him but this whole situation. After I deal with Keith, Kal and I need to have a very long talk.
Diana twirled her lasso around her, changing into a grey lace up back halter neck corset with a white collar button down blouse with roll up sleeves and dark denim jeans. Her hair in a long flowing ponytail.
Shouldn't be too much or too casual going into this establishment.
Diana took a deep breath before walking in.
"Good evening, Ma'am," the hostess smiled.
"Good evening," Diana smiled back.
"Reservations?"
"No…I'm looking for someone however."
"Oh?"
"Keith Griggs."
"Ah! Major Griggs! He sure does have a lot of special guests accompanying him the evening!" The Hostess looked a bit worried.
"Oh, I'm not a guest. Won't be staying too long. It's just something important he must know."
"Oh…ok. Well follow me."
Diana narrowed her eyes when she saw Keith with some of the same people from the party as well as, as expected, a woman all over him. He was being extremely loud, already seemed to be in a drunken haze, inconsiderate of other guests and trying to flirt with a waitress.
"Keith."
He looked up with a smile but immediately dropped it realizing it was Diana. He cleared his throat.
"Ah, Diana! What a pleasant surprise!" He quickly got up and walked around the table to her. "Have you come to apologize so we can put this behind us? You can join us." Keith was about to reach out to her but Diana stepped back.
This manipulative, condescending, lying ass!
"Me apologize? For what exactly?"
"Diana, you embarrassed me in front of Sergeant Bradley then blocked my calls. You disrespected some of the most high ranking officers of the United States."
"You embarrassed your damn self and I am under no obligation to answer your calls. And talk about disrespect, after what you did to me?!"
"So why are you here?"
"I'm here to confirm what I've known from the very beginning. You are a womanizer. You thought that you could easy get me into bed with you but I saw right through your antics. All this time you've tried to make it seem like I'm the one with the problem."
"Excuse me, Mr. Griggs, you are still interrupting our other guests," the manager said walking up.
Keith glanced around to see everyone with their attention on them.
"Oh, Jeanie…aren't I still your very special guest?" He winked.
Hmph…her too. Not surprising at all.
However, the look of disgust Jeanie gave was surprising.
"Don't call me that, Mr. Griggs. It's Jean or Mrs. Monten to you."
She's a married woman. This man really has no bounds.
"Ms. Prince will be leaving not to cause anymore disturbance," he said to Jean. "Are you serious, right now?" He questioned Diana. "You couldn't do this in private?! Here you go again making a scene."
"What? You don't want anyone to know you tried to force yourself on me?"
"It was a misunderstanding..."
"What misunderstanding? Sure, say that you had one too many drinks. Still no excuse but now I see you knew exactly what you were doing and you had your colleagues trying to cover it up. I'm not the one you think you can bribe or threaten."
"What are you trying to do? Are you trying to ruin me? Where is the reporter? Outside? He wants to fight me now? Is that th reason why you are here to sic your guard dog on me?"
Back at the WatchTower
Clark was still fuming, pacing back and forth much to Bruce's annoyance.
"I have to make things right, Bruce. I have to go."
Bruce sighed, "…That's not a good idea. Diana can take care of herself."
Clark frowned and flew out of the room anyway.
"Just don't kill him," Bruce said sarcastically through the communicator.
Clark smirked and flew faster.
Bistro du Midi
"You turned away from me. You didn't have time for me. Didn't make time. But you are always with Clark! You make time for him. You think I believe that bullshit excuse about it was just for work?"
"Just because that's what you are guilty of don't try to put that on me! I don't have to explain anything of my relationship with Clark! I meant what I said, he is a better man than you think you are!"
Keith scoffed and grabbed Diana by her arm but Diana yanked away from him.
"I warned you about that, didn't I?"
"Mr. Griggs?!" Jeanie warned.
"Shut up!" He yelled back at Jeanie. "I am a respected officer! You all will respect me! And that reporter, Diana, will be unemployed in a matter of hours!"
"I don't think so."
Diana turned shocked. "Clark?!"
"I knew it!" Keith scoffed.
"Clark, what are you doing?" Diana asked.
"Diana, you can be mad and yell at me later but I have something to say to Keith."
His loyalty to me is unwavering.
"You don't have to say anything. I've already seen enough."
"No, dammit, you are going to listen! I warned you! I said that I would step back but you took advantage of that in the worst way thinking you could have your way with Diana. You want to act high and mighty in front of your colleagues, that's not happening now. You don't know her and you definitely don't know me. Diana is a damn good woman but you took for granted whatever time she tried to give you. She works harder than anyone else I know. She puts her work before herself. You should've respected that. You god damn right, I'm going to be right with her protecting her from idiots like you. I don't give a damn about your rank or whatever you want to boast about."
"You are saying all this and trying to come to her rescue but she still hasn't let you fu-"
Although still conscious and careful of his strength holding back as much as he could, Clark punched him knocking him back into the table breaking it in half. Everyone around gasped and mumbled.
"Clark!" Diana gasped.
Kal is so angry yet he still holds back not to lose complete control. But I can see a slight glint of red in his eyes.
"He's alright."
Keith stood up wiping the blood from his mouth.
"Maybe you two are the perfect match knocking people over tables. I can definitely fight back with you, Kent!" Keith tried to punch him but he cracked his knuckle against Clark's jaw. "What the h-"
Clark immediately grabbed him by his collar.
"Clark!" Diana touched his shoulder "That's enough. Let him go."
"Don't you ever try to take advantage of any other woman again. If you think that you can threaten us, you got another thing coming. Diana already told you, everything you and your colleagues have been up to will be known. I'll be sure of it…right on the front page."
Clark let him go and took Diana's hand. He then turned to Jean.
"Sorry for the commotion, Ma'am. Any damages, I'll be sure to pay for it."
"Oh…um…" Jean smiled, swooned by Clark's handsomeness and manliness, impressed by the way he handled Keith. "To be quite honest, it's fine. I think you've done more than enough for us in regards to Mr. Griggs and his entourage."
"Would you like for me to exhort him out?" Clark asked.
"I'm sure I have it handled from here," she smiled reassuringly.
Clark nodded slightly and held on tighter to Diana's hand.
"Let's go, Di."
I couldn't say a word. This man has me completely, utterly speechless.
Clark and Diana left out of the restaurant. They walked hand in hand without a word said. Clark glanced at her and sighed deeply. He stopped walking abruptly and turned to face Diana.
"Di…"
When Diana turned to face him, he took her other hand.
"I'm sorry."
"Why are you apologizing, Kal?"
"I yet again crossed the line…"
"How?"
"I didn't want you confronting Keith alone. I just felt I needed to be with you but I made things worse with whatever point he was trying to make, I proved him right."
"Proved him right that you will always be protective of me? Yes. And there's nothing wrong with that. I don't mind it at all. Kal, I'm the one that's sorry for taking my anger out on you earlier. I just…didn't know how to tell you. Holding that in and then piling on the fact that Keith truly is a rotten disrespectful womanizer and shady schemer."
Clark pulled Diana in an embrace. "Diana, I know you can take care of yourself. You can rip the guy in half if you wanted to. But just that thought of anyone trying to take advantage of you, trying to hurt you, and I unknowingly encouraged you to try to give that scumbag a chance, I'm sorry."
"Kal, no. You didn't do anything wrong…You didn't know..." Diana embraced him back just as tight. She then pulled back a back to look up at him with a sympathetic smile.
Gods, his eyes. I can just get lost in them and never want to be found. He loves me, I know he does. And dear Gods, I love him.
Clark took her hands again and brought them up to his lips kissing her knuckles. He then leaned forward planting a soft kiss on her forehead. Diana closed her eyes for a moment until she felt Clark pulling back.
"How about we head to London to go get something to eat and go to your place to talk more?"
Diana nodded.
Clark smiled and still did not let go of her hand as they walked a few blocks then took off to the skies in silence.
Bancone Covent Garden
A well renowned cozy, romantic cafe that offered housemade pastas with Prosecco & espresso in a chic setting. You can even watch the chefs work their magic.
Diana smiled as she and Clark sat face to face.
Clark chuckled noticing her staring. "What is it, Di?"
"I can't believe you punched Keith like that in front of all of those people. You didn't care for anything else other than my honor."
"Well yeah… that's what I'm suppose to do. I didn't want you to feel embarrassed though…"
"Embarrassed? No. Keith was the one embarrassed, especially after the manager sort of felt confident enough to confront him as well. Keith has been trying to bed every woman in the city and beyond." Diana titled her head. "Clark?"
"Oh… yeah?"
"Where did you go?"
"I was just thinking…" he sighed and reached for her hand.
"Clark?" She questioned worried taking his hand.
He smiled. "I didn't mention how beautiful you are."
"You mention it everyday."
"Well, yeah, but today is almost over. I can't let the day pass without saying it."
Diana blushed. "Thank you. But you still aren't telling me what's wrong."
"I just thought about…what if someone recorded all that?"
"If anyone did, surely Jean will clear things up about it."
"I don't want anything tarnishing your reputation."
"It won't, Kal. You are worried about my reputation but not worried about your own? There isn't anything for you to worry about either. Well, except Bruce will have something to say. Hal and William will be making jokes about it."
"Bruce actually is on our side this time than his usual paranoia."
"Really? That's surprising."
"Well, Bruce knows how much I care about you and I annoyed him enough for him to understand I wasn't just going to stand by. He told me just not to kill him."
"I noticed your restraint with Keith."
"Yeah…" Clark sighed. "But Jordan and Batson…well…" Clark shrugged. "I won't hold you back again from punching at least Jordan. Batson can be grounded in the Tower."
Diana laughed softly. "The look on William's face if we ever said he was grounded!"
Clark laughed with her then nodded slightly. "That's what I wanted to hear. "That beautiful infectious laugh."
"Clark…" Diana could stop smiling and was blushing profusely.
When their food had finally arrived, Clark moved to sit next to Diana for them to share their entrees.
"Oh, this is so good! Kal, try this!" Diana eagerly stuffed the fork in his mouth.
"Yeah, that is good!" Clark chuckled.
He leaned over to kiss her cheek making Diana blush. And when he licked his lips, Diana felt a tingling sensation run straight down to her core.
"Here…" He held his fork up to her lips.
Diana let out a low satisfying moan taking the fork into her mouth. Clark watched her in awe.
Their eyes locked as they continued feeding each other. The sexual tension rising between them.
After they were all done and Clark paid the bill, they left Bancone, once again hand in hand and took to the skies to Diana's condominium.
Unlocking and opening the door, Diana took Clark's hand as they walked in. Clark shut and locked it back following Diana to the living room.
Sitting down on the sofa, Clark leaned against the arm immediately pulling Diana close to cuddle.
Diana sighed closing her eyes as she laid her head on his chest.
He's so warm and comforting.
"What are you thinking about, Di?"
Her eyes immediately shot open and looked up at him.
"What made you ask that?"
"I have another special superpower."
"Hmm?" she asked with a raised brow.
Clark caressed her cheek. "I feel when my Nightingale has something weighing on her and need me to listen so I can make everything better."
Diana's stared into his eyes for a moment.
This man is so effortless with his sexy charm. Those eyes of his carry so much love, sincerity, care and passion.
"Tell me, Di."
Diana sighed and looked down. "It's the realization that with the life I have….the kind of romantic involvement I believe in doesn't exist for me. I have to take into consideration both Diana Prince and Wonder Woman. Diana Prince is looked at as an easy catch. Wonder Woman is looked at as a powerful trophy that gives any man the idea he could take over the world or something along those lines." Diana sat up and sighed. "I understand more so now how my mother felt. Her romantic entanglements were just pleasurable satisfactions for the moment. There wasn't any deep emotional bond. Even if she did fall in love, it couldn't last. Her duty as the Amazon Queen came first. So I guess for me, it's the same. Wonder Woman, Ambassador, Educator and my royal duties will always be first."
"Diana, you know that's not at all true. You know that you can have any and everything you want. It just takes the right person to be there with you."
The right person is with me now…but we can't take that risk.
Diana smiled shaking her head. Clark cupped her cheek.
"Diana, any man with at least half a brain and some kind of common sense will know that having any of the slightest chance with you, is a blessing. The luckiest man in the damn universe. You are everything and more." Clark sighed and wrapped his other arm around her waist pulling her closer. "Even me, Di. The kid from Smallville wouldn't believe he would grow up to have this extraordinary literal Goddess in his life. I'm grateful for every day…hour, minute, second, milisecond…microsecond…with you."
"Kal…"
Clark pulled her impossibly closer to her now sitting on his lap.
"Diana…Nightingale, Muffin…" Clark kissed her cheek.
Diana giggled. "What am I going to do with you?!"
"Hmm…" His voice dropped in octave as he whispered in her ear. "You can use me any way you want, Di."
Oh, Gods! He knows exactly what he is doing!
"Use you, Kal? I wouldn't use you."
He smirked. "You know what I mean, Diana."
She blushed. "I think I may need clarification."
"Oh, you do? Then I'll gladly oblige."
Their breathing became heavier. Slowly moving closer, lips centimeters apart.
What am I doing?! It's like I can't control myself.
But then Clark's phone started ringing.
Diana quickly pulled back first. "You should answer that, Kal. Such a late call."
"Oh…uh…" Clark took his phone out his pocket and frowned. "It's Jimmy."
"Answer it. It might be an emergency."
Thank the Gods! We were so close. As much as I want this with him... it's not the right time…
"Yeah, what's up, Jim?"
"DUDE! That was so cool! I didn't know you had it in you."
"What are you talking about, Jim?"
"You are all over the internet punching that Major guy."
"What?!"
Diana frowned an mouthed. "What happened?"
Clark's phone buzzed.
"I sent the video. It already has over 300,000 views. Lots of suppport for you, dude!"
Clark put his phone on speaker to open the message link.
Diana gasped and Clark's eyes went wide as they were looking at the video. There were other videos showing Keith touching other women inappropriately.
"Clark, are you seeing it?"
"Yeah..yeah… Jim. Thanks for sending it."
"When will you be back in Metropolis?"
"My flight is late in the day so, I'll just call you back then."
"Cool. Oh and Lois wants some insight, too. I mean it's a big story already, you know?"
"Yeah… I figured. Alright, Jimmy. I have to go."
"Right! I'm assuming you're still with Diana?"
"Yeah…"
Jimmy snickered. "Ah, well…have a good night, you love birds!" Jimmy teased.
Hanging up, Clark and Diana looked at each other in disbelief.
"I'm sorry, Kal. I didn't truly expect for that to actually happen."
Clark shook his head. "Hey, no, no. Diana, I'm glad it did. That jerk and his colleagues needed to be exposed immediately. This just made our jobs even easier."
Clark placed his phone down on the coffee table wrapped his arms around Diana pulling close to him as he leaned back laying against the arm of the sofa. "Don't worry."
Diana smiled. "You are always so assuring, Kal." She adjusted herself to comfortably and laid her head on his chest.
Clark rubbed his fingers through her hair.
"I don't want you worrying about anything, Di. I know that it's a lot that we will go through because…life. But, we can get through it all together."
Diana nodded.
They laid there in comfortable silence until Diana had fallen asleep.
The next morning, Diana woke up groaning.
"I thought you were a morning person, Di?"
Diana's eyes shot open and looked up at Clark surprised. He had his hands behind his head with the sexy smirk.
"Oh, Clark?! I-"
As she was about to quickly raise off of him, Clark wrapped his arms around her pulling her back down.
"Where are you going?"
"I didn't know we stayed like this all night. Why didn't you wake me?"
"You were sleeping so peacefully, I didn't want to wake you, Sleeping Beauty."
Diana buried her face into his chest embarrassed making Clark laugh.
"What is it, Di?"
She shook her head. "Nothing…" she muttered.
"It's something…just tell me."
This man has captured my heart so easily. Looking into his eyes, I feel a fluttering I've never felt before.
Diana looked up at him with a smile. "Thank you for being with me through all of that last night, Kal. I still can't believe it's escalated to world wide news now with others coming forward on their own stories about Keith and his colleagues."
"Well all it took was for a wonderful woman to kick start it all. Diana Prince is just as much an inspiration as Wonder Woman. Seeing you confront Keith gave the confidence for others to do so." Clark caressed her cheek. "How about we go out for brunch or I can go to the store and get something to cook?"
"Kal, you have a…'flight' to catch."
"Flights can be delayed, Di."
"You have to work."
"This is work. My most important job is to make sure my Muffin is happy and has nothing to worry about."
Diana blushed and smiled. "Okay…well…I would like your cooking better than going out."
"My cooking and having more alone time?"
"Yes…"
Clark smirked as they both sat up. He leaned over and kissed Diana's cheek before bolting to the guest room to get a quick shower and changed his clothes. He came back and kissed the tip of Diana's nose.
"Thanks for letting me keep some spare clothes here, Di."
"Well you needed to. Especially with you staying over a little more frequently lately."
Although the guest bedroom isn't quite ideal…
Clark kissed the tip of her nose again.
"That's because you have me watching marathons all night."
"You like to just as much as I do."
"As long as I'm able to be with you all night, Di," he flashed his charming smile and leaned in closer to where their lips were centimeters apart.
Diana looked at him through half lidded eyes.
"I gotta say…it felt really good having you on top of me all night, Di. You seemed quite comfortable."
Diana smiled. "I was very comfortable, Kal."
"Well then you can be on top whenever you like."
Diana arched her brow and bit her bottom lip.
"Get going, Kal…"
He grinned. "Yes, Ma'am!"
Kissing her cheek, he bolted off again out through the back balcony.
Diana laughed and shook her head.
BUZZ….BUZZZ
"Oh?" Diana picked up her phone to see Donna calling.
"Hey, Donna! Wha-"
"Diana! Oh, Gods! Are you okay?! I knew that guy wasn't any good!"
"Ah! I see more news is spreading even faster."
"Diana, why didn't you tell me what happened at the party?! Have you seen the video?!"
"There's a video of that, too?!"
"Yes! Apparently, there was an undercover detective there."
"Really?"
"Yeah, whoever it was did a really good job capturing a lot of shady stuff going on. I mean wow! Making deals and gambles at an old guy's birthday party is pretty desperate."
"So the detective isn't known at all now?"
"No. Staying anonymous it seems."
"Hmm…I'll have to tell Kal about this when he gets back."
"Wait?! Clark stayed the night again?"
Diana paused and smiled. "He did, Donna, but not in the way you are thinking."
"What's the hold up?"
"Donna, Kal and I aren't going to rush into anything at this moment. Not with this going on now."
"It seems like you are making excuses."
"I'm not. I've told you how I feel about Kal. But it's not that simple still. I want to have time for myself for a complete start over. No worries of anything. Kal and I have been through a lot. We need peace."
"I understand. I just want my sister finally happy and with the man she loves."
"I am happy, Donna, and I will be with Kal. We just need a little more time."
"Oh, alright! Well, when it's time I'm surely going throw a party…an engagement party that is!" Donna teased.
Diana laughed. "I'll talk to you later, Donna."
"Bye, Diana!"
Diana laughed again shaking her head as she hung up the phone. She got up to go in her room for a steaming hot shower.
She took off her clothes tossing them into the hamper then sighed stepping into the shower.
The water cascaded over her immediately feeling as if all her stress was washing away. Her body fully relaxing. She sighed and closed her eyes for a moment.
Meanwhile, Clark was finishing up his grocery shopping at a nice little corner market shop with a huge grin on his face.
"Ah, it's nice to see such a handsome young man happy on this beautiful day! Is there a game today perhaps?" the elder cashier inquired.
"Oh, uh…I'm not quite sure. I'm just excited to get back to my Lady before I have to catch my flight a little later."
"Aww! How sweet! I remember those days of me and my husband! I'm sure you've gotten plenty but would you like a beautiful bouquet of flowers? I set them out myself this morning." The cashier went over to the floral area. "This is one that really stands out!"
"She will absolutely love this! Thank you!" Clark was just about to take out more money when the cashier shook her head.
"Go ahead, young man. If anything, to witness the joy you have for your lady has made my day! Oh, may I get your name?"
"Clark. Clark Kent and my lovely lady's name is Diana."
"My name is Halle Levi."
"Levi? Wait…? Levi's Farmers Market. You wouldn't happen to be the owner, right?"
"Yes, actually I am along with my husband. So be sure to come back any time and bring Diana with you."
Clark smiled and nodded slightly. "We sure will. Thank you, Mrs. Levi!"
Back with Diana
Diana stepped out onto her bedroom balcony with a towel wrapped around her body.
She smiled leaning over the balcony looking out over the beautiful city.
"Chirp! Chirp!"
A small bird landed in front of her.
"Oh, well hello, little one!"
"Chirp!"
"Aren't you beautiful?!"
The bird had an azure-blue crown and dark blue line passing through the eye, and encircling the white cheeks to the chin, giving the bird a very distinctive appearance. The forehead and a bar on the wing are white. The nape, wings and tail are blue and the back is yellowish green. The underparts is mostly sulphur-yellow with a dark line down the abdomen. The bill was black, the legs bluish grey, and the irides dark brown.
"Hmm…I've never seen one such as you before."
The bird hopped closer to Diana's hand rubbing its head against her thumb. Diana then cupped her hands for it to stay warm.
"Are you cold?" Diana rubbed the top of its head gently.
"Chirp. Chirp!"
"Well, my Kal should be on his way back. He will help make you a nice cozy nest."
"Chirp! Chirp!"
Diana laughed softly but then jumped slightly and gasped feeling strong arms suddenly around her waist.
"Oh...you heard me?" Diana smiled.
"I did..."
"Chirp!"
"You've made a new friend, Di?" Clark asked.
Diana turned her head slightly. "I have."
He kissed her cheek. "So where did the little guy come from? Doesn't seem to be hurt."
"No, not hurt, but possibly lost. I don't think this little one is suppose to be in this area at all."
"Hmm…?"
"Can you make a nest for now and we'll research a bit and see?"
Clark smiled. "Of course!"
Clark kissed her cheek again before stepping back and Diana turned completely to face him. She immediately took note of his sly smirk as he was looking at her up and down.
Diana tilted her head. "What is it?"
"I know I said it before…I like seeing you in less..."
Diana looked down realizing she was still only wrapped in a towel.
She gasped, "Oh!"
Clark chuckled. "You don't have to rush to get dressed."
Diana raised her brow. "How about you work on the nest for our new little friend and yes, I will get dressed."
"I can definitely get a nest prepared….but this is your place, Diana. You can be as comfortable as you want. Especially with me. No rush at all getting dressed."
"Maybe next time..." Diana smirked gently placing the little bird into Clark's hands. "I'll be back."
Diana looked back for a second to see Clark still staring at her as she walked away.
He is still watching me with that smirk. He hasn't hidden his feelings for me but just held them back as much as he could to have respect for if there was any other potential suitor. But now, it's like he knows for sure he is the only one and not holding back at all.
More more than 30 minutes later, Diana came back wearing a coral orange Solid Form Fitted Crop Cami Top, light grey Drawstring Waist Shorts and her hair tied up in a ponytail.
"Clark glanced up then did a double take.
"Oh, damn," he said under his breath.
Diana smiled. "What was that, Kal?" she asked teasingly.
"You look gorgeous as always, Diana," he grinned.
"Very charming, Kal…" she grinned back. "Let me see our little friends new nest."
Diana walked over to him and purposely bent forward more than she had to knowing he could help eyeing her cleavage. She glanced at him seeing that just as she thought, he was staring and smirked to herself.
"This is nice, Kal. The little one loves it already."
"Yeah…"
Diana looked at him with half lidded bedroom eyes.
"Kal, is there something you want to say or…do?"
"Oh…uh…" He rubbed the back of his head. "It's a lot of things I want to say and do, Di. Particularly to and with you but it's not the right time just yet."
"Oh? I'm even more curious now."
I can see it in his eyes. That burning passion for me ready to explode…
"Just wait…"
"Until?"
Clark smiled and kissed the tip of her nose.
"Let's get you and little bird some food."
"Okay," Diana nodded slightly and kissed his cheek. "So you found out what kind this little one is?"
"Yeah! It's an Eurasian blue tit. They usually eat insects and spiders… but can't go insect and spider hunting right now so luckily pieces of vegetables and seeds are good."
"Oh, wonderful!"
As Diana embraced him, Clark wrapped his arms around her hugging her even tighter. His hands rubbed up and down her back slowly and moved his head slightly to plant a soft kiss at the crook of her neck.
Diana giggled lowly. "Kal…"
He pulled back just slightly. "Yes, Di?"
Diana bit her lip, tilting her head. Clark reached to cup her cheek.
"Nothing…" she said in almost a whisper.
"It's something. What is it?"
"It's nothing, really."
"Are you sure?"
"Mmhmm…"
"Well…in that case…"
Clark slowly moved in closer. Diana followed, eyes fluttering closed and just as their lips were just a centimeter to touch…
"CHIRP! CHIRP!"
They jumped back to the sound of their little bird chirping angrily.
Clark chuckled. "Cute, small, but already demanding."
Diana giggled. "Hurry, Kal…please."
"I'm on it."
Diana watched with a smile as Clark walked away.
So close yet again. But it's still not the right time just yet. Gods know I want this with him and it just feels so right. But I just can't lose my best friend if something goes wrong.
Clark quickly gave the little bird very small dices of vegetables and seeds.
They watched for a moment as their little bird enjoyed eating.
Clark then took Diana's hand for them to go inside to the kitchen for him to make brunch for Diana and himself.
"These are for you, Di," he said with a proud smile picking up the bouquet of flowers and handing it to her.
"Oh, how lovely!"
"The market honor gave them as a courtesy because she saw how happy I was."
"Happy about what?"
"You, of course! I told her I'm spending the morning with my lady until I have to leave for my 'flight'."
His lady...
Diana blushed. "Well your lady is very happy with the time we have together now, too." She reached to kiss his cheek. "Thank you."
No more than 45 minutes, Clark finished preparing their food.
"Here you go, Ms. Prince."
"Thank you very much, Mr. Kent."
Diana inhaled deeply looking down at her plate. She let out a low moan as she bent slightly against the counter.
Clark smiled and eased behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.
"Kal, your food will get cold. You need to eat before you go."
"Don't worry, Di." He kissed her shoulder.
Diana raised her brow and turned her head.
"I'm feeling…" she began.
"Feeling what?" Clark asked in a whisper against her ear.
Diana gasped as Clark tightened his grip around her waist, pushing himself further against her for her to feel more of him.
By the Gods...this man. What a man! Superman in every way possible.
"Oh…um…I'm feeling a lot…"
Diana's eyes fluttered closed, basking in this moment of him holding her so tight. Feeling him against her like never before.
This was different. Much different. His touch. The sound of his voice.
Clark chuckled and then released her. Her body screamed for him to come back.
Diana looked at him with a raised brow again. Clark looked up at her with a sly grin finally taking a bite of his food.
They didn't verbally say much of anything else however, continued to speak with their eyes.
After eating and Clark cleaning up their dishes, they went back outside to the balcony to see the little bird now comfortably cuddled and resting in its new nest.
"Aw! How sweet!" Diana gushed.
"It's a girl. Do you think we should take her to some kind of wildlife preserve?"
"I think she is fine here. I'll be sure to take care of her."
"I know you will." Clark kissed her cheek. "And I'll come back as soon as I can to take care of you."
"Kal, you've already done so much for me. Take some time for yourself or better yet, let me do some things for you."
"As long as I get to see that beautiful smile of yours...and I take pride in knowing that I'm part of the reason for it, that's all I need, Di."
Diana wrapped her arms around his neck embracing him.
"Call me later?"
"Of course!" Clark planted a soft kiss on her forehead.
They embraced again, reluctant to let each other go.
When they finally let go, this time, Diana kissed Clark's cheek.
Clark levitated backwards not wanting to take his eyes off of her.
Diana giggled, blowing him a kiss and waved until she could no longer see him.
Though, Clark could still see her and damn was she glowing. He just wanted to take her in his arms again. And she will be.
Hours later… Daily Planet
"CK! There's so many videos about you! Wow!"
"I don't see the big deal for what I did. The bigger story is the women coming forward. Diana will be speaking soon, too, to address all of this."
"How far up the pedestal you putting this girl, Smallville?" Lois asked sarcastically.
"That's not what I'm doing, Lois. I don't need to. Diana works very hard and deserves the praise she gets."
Lois rolled her eyes. "You sound like a love sick puppy. Come on, Ms. Perfect isn't so perfect."
"She doesn't see herself as perfect. She lets it be known of any mistakes she's made and of the flaws she has. She doesn't hide anything and-"
"Alright, lover boy!" Lois waved her hand. "Enough of that. Enjoy your little 15 minutes of fame and if she lets you open her panty drawer."
"No need for the insults, Lois."
Lois shrugged. "I'm just saying a bit of truth. Anyway, I need to make some calls for some exclusives. I guess you're still going to dodge being asked questions?"
"It's not my story to tell, Lois."
"Uh huh… You and your secrets, Kent." Lois shook her head walking away.
Clark sighed.
"Wow! That was awkward. Lois isn't at all hiding her jealousy of your girlfriend. You good, CK?"
"Yeah…but Diana and I aren't official just yet."
"But I mean, you two are even closer than you were before right?"
"Yeah but we aren't rushing or pressuring things. I don't want her to feel anything like that at all especially after what she already dealt with. She knows how I feel and I know how she feels. How it is now...the moments we have without thinking too much has been what we need. Letting everything flow naturally in place for us."
"Wow! Seems to me you and Diana got something really special."
Clark smiled proudly. "Yeah, we do."
Later that evening…
Clark called Diana walking into his apartment.
"Hey, Kal!"
"Hey, Di! Just calling to check on you and our little bird."
"You are so sweet! I'm fine. She's fine. Flying around the balcony. She doesn't seem to want to go too far out, though."
"Well that's still good. She rested and now building up her strength to fly. But she's already gotten used to her new home. She's not going anywhere at all."
Diana laughed. "Well it's nice to hear her little bird song while I get some work done with my lesson plans. I'll be going to the Embassy tomorrow and my lecture at the university is the next day."
"You sure you don't want to stay home for the rest of the week? Start first next? I can stay with you…take care of you like I promised."
"That sounds very nice. But Kal, you always take care of me. But I do need to work."
"I understand."
"I wouldn't mind that you come over after my lecture. If you aren't busy with a deadline."
"That works. Be prepared for me to have you wrapped up in a warm blanket and in my arms all night."
"Kal, you are really trying to tempt me."
Clark chuckled. "It's working?"
"Very much so…"
"Worth the wait."
"I know it is. We won't have to worry about rushing the next morning."
"And our focus will just be each other."
"Yes…"
"Diana, I…"
"Yes, Kal?"
"Know that I'm always with you, okay? No matter how far apart we have to be for some time, I'm with you."
"I know you are, Kal. I'm with you, too."
"I'll call you again before you go to bed, okay?"
"Okay."
Hanging up the phone, Clark sighed, "I love you, Diana."
2 days later… Boston University
"That's all for today. Remember your reports are due at the end of the month, no extensions nor excuses. If there are any problems or questions that arise, please let me know as soon as possible not at the the last minute."
Diana began shutting down her laptop and gathering her papers putting them in her laptop bag when someone walked up to her desk.
"Ms. Diana Prince?"
"Yes?" She questioned looking up.
"Hi. I'm Sandra Daniels."
"Oh? Hi. How can I help you?"
"I'm a private investigator," she informed taking out her ID. "I've been undercover for a while following Keith Griggs, David Leornard, Tate Bradley, Gerald Sterling and more. I've been gathering evidence for the allegations against them. It seems there has been some very disturbing occurrences of the years…"
"Well all I know is what I overheard at the party and my experience with Keith's behavior."
"Yes, I know. I was there as well. Captured quite a bit…even the actions of Mr. Griggs. I'm here for that reason, Ms. Prince, for your permission to use the video evidence."
"Oh of course. I mean, there are already videos out even without my permission."
"And some of those videos can be taken out of context to manipulate the narrative. What I have, there can't be any denial for anyone's misdeeds."
"I want to help any way I can."
"Glad to hear that. I understand you will be holding a press conference? Will that be soon? As in a few days?"
"Yes, though it seems I will have to push it back because of the investigation?"
Sandra nodded. "I'm hoping that I and a few others that would like to speak could actually join you at that time."
"Oh, yes, please do!"
"Alright! Well, thank you for your time and speaking with me. There's nothing else for now. Evidence will be sent to the judge for trial first thing next Monday."
Diana nodded and shook her hand.
Later that night… London, Diana's condominium
Clark landed on her balcony with a smile.
"Chirp! Chirp!"
The little bird happily landed on Clark's shoulder.
"Hey, little bird. Diana and I need to come up with a name for you. I got you a bird feeder and went hunting for some insects you might like."
"Chirp!"
"You're welcome!"
"Kal?"
He smiled at Diana and swooped her up in his arms embracing her.
"Hey, Di!"
"Hi!" she giggled wrapping her arms around his neck.
Clark pulled back a bit looking her up and down with a sly grin.
"Wow…"
"It's just a robe, Kal."
She was wearing a short polyester rhubarb red charmeuse robe with wide sleeves and a tie belt.
"I've told you anything you wear is breathtaking."
Diana blushed. "You are such a charmer."
Clark kissed the tip of her nose.
Diana giggled and twirled in his arms leaning against his chest.
"I got your favorite take out. Why don't we get inside, eat, then we can watch as many movies as you want."
"I like the sound of that. But of course we can't forget the cuddling."
"Oh, no. I'm definitely not forgetting that."
"Chirp! Chirp! Chirp!"
"Aw! Kadi (pronounced: Kay-dee) is loving her bird feeder."
"Kadi, huh?" Clark questioned with a smile.
Diana nodded smiling back. "I used our names, Kal and Diana."
"Very fitting! I really like it! Well Kadi, enjoy your bird feeder, insects and exploring a bit while Diana and I have to get to our alone time."
Still with one arm around her waist, Clark grabbed their sacks of food with his other hand and they went inside.
Clark watched as Diana walked over to the cabinet. He smirked as her robe slightly rose up revealing her matching thong.
Putting the plates down on the counter, Diana looked back at him with a curious smile.
"What is it, Kal?" she asked tilting her head a bit.
"Oh, nothing, Di."
She raised her brow walking over to him. "You know someone always says to me nothing means something…?"
Clark chuckled and placed his hand at the small of her back.
"I'm just glad that you're happy again."
"Kal, I've always been happy."
"I mean, not having to worry about some ignorant asshole that never deserved your time in the first place."
Diana giggled. "I see. Well yes, I'm not worried about him at all. I wasn't worried about him in a way that you may be thinking of. Quite honestly, the only man I've ever worried about and deserved my time like that is you."
Clark smiled proudly and leaned over to kiss her cheek.
He knows me. He knows how I feel without me out right having to say. Just as I know how he feels about me.
As they were eating, Diana sighed.
"You okay?"
"Oh, yes! But I have something else to tell you."
"What's that?"
"Well, I had a visitor…a private investigator."
Clark frowned. "Why?"
"Don't worry. It wasn't anything bad. At least for me. She came to inform me about gathering her evidence against Kieth and his colleagues going on trial."
"You will testify?"
"Yes. Along with others that have decided to come forward. It seems she was there at the party as well. Cameras were hidden in places and captured quite a lot I didn't even keen in on. She even got every bit of Keith's aggressive drunken behavior towards me. She also has footage from the restaurant."
"When is it? I'll be there with you."
Diana smiled. "I knew you would say that. She hasn't told me the date set yet. But as soon as she does, you'll be the first to know."
"Hope it's not drawn out either especially with having the evidence. I mean I'll be there with you the whole way through no matter how long it takes but it shouldn't be any hesitation with whatever the sentencing may be."
"I understand. I don't want it to be long either. We already have very long days and nights with our jobs."
"You know, I'd rather have long days and nights with us alone."
Diana blushed. "Yes, I know. If you are done, we can get to that now."
Clark smirked and within seconds he had the rest of the food put away, table cleaned and dishes washed.
Diana picked up their glasses of wine and walked into the living room. Setting down their glasses on the coffee table and about to sit down, Clark appeared before she could blink already sitting and grabbed her by her waist, playfully pulling her down.
"Kal!" she giggled.
Adjusting comfortably, Clark was leaning against the arm and corner of the sofa while Diana lay cuddled against him.
"So what are we watching tonight?"
"A horror film."
"What?! Oh, no, Di."
She looked up at him with a frown. "And why not?"
"Last time, you had a nightmare and almost kicked my ass while still asleep."
Diana blushed and tried not to laugh. "I said I was sorry for that." She looked at him with innocent eyes.
Clark sighed. "Damn…I can't say no to you even if I tried and especially not with that look you are giving me."
She reached up to kiss his cheek. "It's also an excuse for us to stay like this all night even more so. I feel very safe in your arms."
Clark placed a soft kiss at her temple.
"You will always be safe with me, Diana. Always."
One week later…Atlanta, Georgia: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Everything seemed to have gotten back as normal as it could be. Both Clark and Diana were very busy with work, heroics and civilian but they still made time for moments of respite with each other. There was also the advantage of going on missions or patrol together.
"It would've been great if we could enjoy the show," Diana sighed looking down from the clear skies.
"Yeah, it's cool to see the show from here like this but definitely prefer it if we could join the hyped crowd." Clark smiled. "I'll get us tickets for a show."
"Oh, you don't have to, Kal. I just-"
"No, no. I got you, Di. Just let me know when you want to go."
"Thank you. We can see the first show that will be available when I get back from visiting Mother."
"You're still leaving Sunday afternoon?"
"Yes. Why don't you come with me? You need a vacation, too."
"As much as I want to, I don't want to take any time from you and Hippolyta."
"You won't, Kal. I would be overjoyed to have the two most important people in my life, my best friend and my mother, with me. It makes me very happy when you and Mother have time to talk."
"I know but you need this time alone with her after everything. It's only fair," he said with a smile but seeing Diana pout made him chuckle and wrapped his arms around her from behind.
"Muffin…Nightengale…come on, don't be like that. I promise to go with you next time."
Diana sighed and relaxed in his arms, leaning her head back against his shoulder.
"I guess I'm just spoiled to having you with me all the time is all."
Clark smiled. "I take a lot of pride in that."
"As you should," Diana sighed lovingly. "I really like this song in particular."
"Hmm? Why is that?" Clark nuzzled his face into her hair.
"It reminds me a lot of someone in particular."
Diana felt his grin and he kissed the back of her head.
I've fallen more and more in love with him. I know this is pure love between us and for the first time of truly understanding what it feels like, it still frightens me to no end.
2 days later… Watch Tower Briefing Room
"I can't believe this! Why do we have to deal with bullshit as petty as this?!" Black Canary questioned. "I mean it's not like we want rewards or recognition but damn! We make just as many sacrifices trying to protect even those ungrateful ass military idiots!"
"Calm down, Dinah." Diana touched her shoulder. "We've handled all as well as we could've. No, we aren't looking for any kind of rewards or recognition. To see the smiles on children's faces, to have them safe and protected is all we should care about."
"Look, Princess, taking time out on a Sunday for a meeting we don't need is irritating."
"I understand."
"I'm not sure if I can sit through another damn press conference," Hal said in disgust.
"Whether you like it or not, Jordan, we have to assure that we can be trusted. We are who we are as the Justice League to help," Clark said. "Besides, it will be me and Diana addressing the public. All we need is everyone's agreement."
Diana nodded. "We just all have to keep moving forward. There are those who want us to falter but we will not. We have nothing to hide. This is why it's important for us to address all of this."
Diana smiled reassuringly turning to Clark. Clark placed his hand on top of hers.
Hours later, London: Diana's condominium
Diana stepped out the shower wrapping her towel around her body. Humming happily, she walked out of her bathroom.
"Hey, Muffin…"
Diana jumped slightly noticing Clark leaning against her open balcony door.
"Hi, Mr. Kent."
Clark smirked and swiftly moved to her wrapping his arms around her waist from behind.
"My timing is perfect."
"Have you decided to come with me after all?"
"Sorry, Di but I promise next time. I just mean to see you in nothing but a towel."
Diana's heart skipped a beat. She leaned back against him as she always did and closed her eyes.
Gods! Not even 5 minutes and this man is having me feel such unadulterated unspeakable things.
"I don't want to take your time getting ready, though."
"No, you aren't. It's not like I have a flight to catch. I'll always have time for you, Kal."
"I just wanted to talk about something before you go."
"Okay…what is it?"
"I want you to have time to yourself because…"
Diana turned around in his arms and tilted her head curious. "Because what?"
Clark cupped her face with both hands. "Diana, we've been through a lot. You know I will always be by your side no matter what. But I need you to be ready… to be sure."
"Kal? Ready and sure of what?"
"I love you, Diana and I know you love me, too. But what you said about romantic involvements not existing for you. Diana, I'm right here. I'm waiting for when you are ready to take that step with me."
Diana's heart skipped a beat. She looked at him with tears welling up in her eyes.
"Kal…" She shook her head. "I...I want to. But I can't lose you. Taking that step, it scares me."
"You will never lose me, Diana. I know it may seem scary but it's not. Not with what we have. You trust me, right?"
"Of course I do."
"Then trust in what you feel. You know this is right but I still don't want you to feel pressured so I'll wait for you for as long as it takes until you are ready."
"Kal…"
He silenced her, capturing her lips in a passionate kiss. Diana immediately melted in his arms, responding back kissing him with as much passion.
His kiss…Gods, his lips so warm, soft, and demanding. I can feel every bit of his love pouring within me. I thought about this moment so many times and it's so much more than I could ever imagine. He's taken my heart and won't let go. I don't ever want him to it let go.
It felt like eternity before they both pulled back slightly, leaning their foreheads against one another's and staring into each others eyes.
"I mean it, Diana. When you come back, I'll be waiting for you to come home to me."
To Be Continued...