The Marshall and Superman

Chapter 7 Country Living, Thanksgiving

The extended family settles into a comfortable routine.

Martha was in Kansas 3 weekends a month usually. She did appearances around the state on 2 of those weekends, 1 weekend being devoted to time at home. She had informed the Kansas Republican party of her intent to retire in 3 years – at the end of her current term. She had discussed this with the kids, and told them that health permitting she would be available for extended stretches of child-care so Clark and Lana could get away after their family expands.

Clark did his usual patrolling the skies over Metropolis, with no real difference in his schedule. His relationship with the Justice League (JL) was growing nicely, to the benefit of both sides. This provided him with occasional time off which he had not enjoyed before.

Clark had worked with Oliver Queen & the JL on 3 pieces of technology. First, an alert device that Superman and all JL members wore, that would alert all available superheroes to the need for their services. What & where the problem was would be coordinated by Watchtower.

Second, a personal alert device for Clark's family. This would be used by Lana or Martha to request Superman's assistance; there were 3 levels of alert – call home when you can, semi-urgent problem, EMERGENCY.

Third, a soft chime notice of his soon arrival home. This would sound in the house, barn and loft.

Lana's duties as a Marshall consisted of either 1) a case which had to be attended to wherever a team was needed or, 2) work at the HQ office like research, forensic analysis, paperwork, etc. All the Marshall's had an on-call schedule & on those days/nights they were required to stay at HQ and be immediately available, usually in teams of 2; there was a suite of sleeping rooms and kitchenette for the Marshalls to use.

LATE NIGHT – IN BED

"Clark?"

"Yes, babe."

"You really saved the day, and my life, when we were attacked by Lex's team while we were in Florida."

"It was my pleasure. I already had deep feelings for you, so it was work & personal."

"I was thinking, is it possible for us to work together more in the future?"

"Possible, yes. But we must be careful. There are smart, determined people out there who desperately want to discern my non-superhero identity. They would then attack my family and friends, in an effort to influence me or shut me down. It would make life much more dangerous for you, mom, our kids etc. The more dots I leave behind for them to connect the higher the risk is. Does that make any sense?"

"Actually, yes. I hadn't thought it through from that perspective." Lana admits.

"Well, don't be discouraged about that. I've had a lot more time to think about things like that. Working together occasionally with me and the JL is fine and to be expected. So don't hesitate to call your local Super-man," Clark smirks.

"I like my own personal Super-man; I like him a lot!"

"Oh? Care to show him?" Wicked grin!

She jumps his bones – the showing goes both ways.

One weekend when Martha is at the farm there is a farm animal auction in Granville. They all attend; Clark and Lana have been talking about purchasing 2 riding horses, this is an activity they love doing together. Lana is a relative newcomer to riding, and Clark is gradually helping her learn. She is really enjoying it.

They have brought along their old gray mare to sell. They practically have to give her away, but it is worth it to make room for their new stock. Lana gets a lovely dappled gray mare, Jamie a feisty black stallion. Over all objections, mom insists on paying ½ as her early Christmas present to her kids. They are happy campers on the way home.

THANKSGIVING

Both Martha and Lana are fortunate to have the long thanksgiving weekend off. Clark and the JL set up a schedule to give each superhero some part of the weekend to spend with family and friends; Superman gets the actual Thursday holiday off. He will have to be up very early on Friday to cover the shopping madness.

Thanksgiving dinner is a cooperative effort between mom & daughter-in-law (soon to be, in 3 weeks). Lana is thoroughly enjoying learning new cooking and baking skills from Martha, who is an expert and great teacher.

As dinner time approaches, Clark gets out the little used fine china, silverware and crystal and sets a nice table. The ladies add the food and they all take their places.

Martha speaks first with a tear in her eye; "I don't know if you can begin to understand how happy this makes me. To have Lana joining our little family, with hope for future expansion, makes my heart swell with joy! Thank you, Clark and Lana, for making this Thanksgiving so special!"

Clark is next; "I really miss dad, as I know you do too, mom. But, finding and falling in love with Lana is assuaging the pain and filling that hole in my heart – big time! Thank you Lana, my love, for being here at our 1st Thanksgiving together." He holds up his champagne filled flute, they clink, and sip a toast."

Lana hesitatingly starts. "My cup runneth over, truly. When I found out that the Clark, I fell for was Superman, I was blown away. I could hardly believe it! Then I met Martha, and I again had a mom – unbelievable! Then this beautiful farm, what more can I say? Thank you both . . . for loving me!" A couple of stray tears trickled down her cheeks.

Martha offered a short prayer for their meal, Clark began carving the turkey (in Jonathan's absence), and they started eating.

After the main course, Martha brought out one of her famous – and award winning apple pies. "Clark, I want you to know that this pie is largely due to Lana's hard work!"

"Easy mom, I had a ton of help and advice."

Clark takes a couple of bites, "Wow, this is fantastic!" 'She is a keeper!'

Lana dips her head in mild embarrassment, Martha grins supportively, Clark keeps on shoveling pie into his mouth.

Their 1st Thanksgiving together was a smashing success.