Chapter 6: A Father's Love

Clark seized the opportunity, reaching into Bruce's utility belt and pulled out a pre-loaded syringe containing the fear toxin antidote. He plunged the needle into Bruce's arm, injecting the antidote.

A sudden wave of exhaustion washed over Clark, his vision blurring. He slumped against Bruce, his body growing limp. The last thing he felt was Bruce's hand on his abdomen, a gentle touch that promised comfort and protection.

As Clark drifted into unconsciousness, the baby within him stirred. A tiny kick, a powerful surge of life, jolted through Clark's body.

The sensation, unexpected and jarring, jolted Bruce as well. His eyes snapped open, the green glow fading from his pupils. He looked down at Clark, his face pale and still. Then, his gaze fell upon his hand, resting on Clark's abdomen. A faint, rhythmic pulse thrummed beneath his fingertips.

Another kick, stronger this time. A wave of realization washed over him. Clark... and their child. The memory of Clark's words echoed in his mind, a beacon of hope in the darkness. He gently stroked Clark's abdomen, his touch filled with a newfound tenderness. The tiny kicks, each a testament to the miracle of life, brought tears to his eyes.

The antidote coursed through Bruce's system, the fear and madness receding like a tide. He stared at his hands, his breath catching in his throat. He remembered the gauntlets, the kryptonite net, the brutal force he'd used against Clark.

"Clark!" he choked out, his voice raw with horror. "Clark, please..." He gathered Clark in his arms, cradling him gently. "Please, wake up. I didn't... I wouldn't..." He couldn't even finish the sentence, the guilt and fear choking him.

Clark stirred, his eyelids fluttering open. He looked up at Bruce, his expression dazed but softening as he saw the anguish in Bruce's eyes.

"Bruce," he murmured, his voice weak but reassuring. "It's okay... I'm okay." He reached up, his hand trembling as he cupped Bruce's cheek. "It wasn't you, Bruce. I know that."

"But I hurt you," Bruce whispered, his voice thick with self-recrimination. "I almost..." He couldn't bring himself to say it.

"Shhh," Clark hushed him, his thumb gently stroking Bruce's cheekbone. "It's over now. You're back. That's all that matters." He leaned into Bruce's touch, his voice gaining strength. "We're safe. We're together. And..." his gaze drifted down to Bruce's hand resting protectively on his abdomen, "we have a little one to think about now."

Bruce's eyes followed Clark's gaze, landing on his own hand. He felt another kick, a tiny flutter of life against his palm. A sob escaped his lips, a mixture of relief, remorse, and overwhelming love.

"Our baby," he said, his voice filled with wonder. "It kicked me."

Clark's eyes widened. A weak smile spread across his lips.

"He did?"

"He?" Bruce questioned, his voice thick with emotion.

"He. I should have told you sooner."

Clark closed his eyes, a single tear escaping and tracing a path down his cheek.

"We're going to be parents," he whispered.

"We are," Bruce said, leaning down to kiss Clark's forehead. "And I promise, I'll be here to protect you both."

They held each other close, the weight of the ordeal pressing down on them. But amidst the madness and sadness, there was also a glimmer of hope, a promise of a future filled with love and family. They would face the challenges ahead, together, stronger than ever before.

THE END