Kirk Alyn

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SupermanTV.net Forum / Superman / Smallville / Fan Fiction / Three Minutes - Continued - PG-13

Posted:  05 Dec 2007 00:24
Sorry I've been slow posting the rest of the story from kryptonsite.com.

Note: I will be adding consecutive chapters to this thread as replies in order to not have to keep creating new threads.

Quote:



Chapter 6

(Chloe POV)

It was late and I was finishing up the layout for my first story since I’ve been back at The Planet. It’s been three weeks since they released me from the hospital and one week since I’ve been back at work. After I woke up the doctors made me stay in the hospital for another four days for observation before they let me go home. I was told to stay on bed rest for two weeks and then come back and see them, which I did. So here I am back at work. Thank god to because I was about ready to end it just from the boredom. I was standing up by my computer when I heard heels clicking heavily on the floor. I looked up and saw Linda Lake heading my way. Great the she-devil. Why is she even down here?

“I need 11 copies of each by tomorrow morning, and before my Macchiato goes arctic. Assistants just don't have the stamina they used to have.”

She turned around and started to walk away.

I raised and eyebrow at her. Who does she think she’s talking to. Linda Lake was pretty high up on the Planet scale and I didn’t want to piss anyone off so I checked my temper and spoke to her in a non-confrontational tone.

“Uh, excuse me, Miss Lake, with all due respect, I'm not an assistant. I'm a reporter.”

I heard her snort and she turned around to face me. She gave me a hard glare as she spoke.

“Of course you are. Unfortunately,”

She looked at my desk to see my nameplate.

“Sullivan, what matters is that I can see Gotham from my new office, and you -- oh, well, you, hon, you work below sea level.”

She was getting me mad now. I was tired and she was a pain. Forget being respectful. I held up a paper with her front-page story on it.

“At the risk of heresy, I would rather be snorkeling for the rest of my life than destroy a man's career based on rumor.”

She came over to me and got in my face.

“I only print the truth, and if you haven't noticed, I print it on page 1, section B every week.”

With that she turned on her heels and stormed out of the basement. Well that went terrific. I threw her papers on the desk next to me and finished up what I was doing. Right when I clicked the finished button my cell phone rang. I grabbed my phone and flipped it open.

“Hello.”

“Hey Chloe…you done yet?”

I rolled my eyes but smiled. Clark has been being incredibly sweet, incredibly caring, and incredibly annoying ever since I came home. The worst part was his obsessive ness was really starting to grow on me. I shook my head.

“Yea I just finished. I’m getting my stuff together now. I was just going to call you.”

I heard a noise on the other end.

“I’ll be right there.”

“Ok…do me a favor and bring…”

The whoosh of air cut off my sentence and he grinned down on me. I closed my phone.

“What were you saying?”

“I was going to ask you to bring my car keys so I could drive back to the Talon.”

He frowned and gently placed an arm around me getting ready to take off.

“I thought you were staying with me tonight Chloe.”

I sighed. I had stayed at the farm for the two weeks I was on bed rest at Clark’s insistence. I had gotten an earful from Lois about up and leaving her at the Talon. Clark and Lois had argued for over an hour about who would take better care of me. Clark ended the argument when he said that the baby and I needed proper nutrition and since Lois couldn’t cook and his mom could the obvious place for me to stay while I recuperate was with him. As soon as I got off bed rest though I went back to the Talon and Clark has been harping on me ever since.

“I know I said I would Clark but I’m really tired and I just want to sleep in my own bed.”

He tightened his hold on me and moved his head to my ear.

“Hold on…I’m gonna run us back to the farm so we can finish this conversation more comfortably.”

I stepped back from him and he gave me a questioning look.

“You think you could just pick me up instead tonight Clark? You know I love super speeding with you but just holding on has been making me a little sick lately.”

He smiled walked over to me and lifted me up into his arms like I weighed nothing. I guess to him I did. We were back at the farm in no time and he placed me on the sofa in the living room. I toed my heels off and moved over to give him room to sit. He sat down and pulled my feet onto his lap and started rubbing them. I closed my eyes. Oh. My. God. Clark Kent was amazing! Oh that felt so good. He gave me a cocky smirk and a chuckle when he heard me groan. I opened one eye.

“What are you smirking at Kent?”

He shrugged.

“You know Chloe if you moved in here I could do this all the time…whenever you want.”

I had to laugh at that. I leaned back into the pillow on the couch.

“That’s bribery Clark.”

He scrunched up his face and gave me a fake confused look.

“So…when was it written that I couldn’t use bribery to win you over?”

I closed my eyes again and grinned.

“It wasn’t written anywhere I’m just letting you know that’s kind of cheating.”

He kneaded a particularly sensitive spot on my foot and I let out a loud moan. His hands stopped moving so I opened my eyes.

“Don’t stop Clark…”

I looked into his eyes and chills ran up my spine. They were a shade darker than usual. I gulped and attempted to pull my foot off his lap without success. He held on tightly enough that I couldn’t get away but gently enough not to hurt me. I gave him a nervous laugh.

“I kind of need my foot back Clark…you know so I can get up…”

He started massaging circles on my ankle with his thumbs and was slowly working his hands to my calf. Oh my god…what is he doing and why does it have to feel so damn good? When he spoke his voice was deeper then I remembered it being.

“Relax Chloe…I’m not done yet.”

My throat went dry. That statement didn’t exactly sound like a friendly statement if you know what I mean. My heartbeat sped up and I could feel it frantically thumping against my chest. His hands moved higher, to my knee and his body seemed to get magically closer. He couldn’t actually be…hitting on me. I mean this is Clark…he’s in love with Lana…he only considers me a friend. And yet I can feel his body getting closer to me by the second. He brushed a piece of falling hair from my face and let his hand linger there. When did he get that close? My voice was a whisper when I spoke.

“Clark…what…what are you doing?”

Our heads were getting awfully close to each other, so close in fact I could feel his breath.

“I don’t know.”

He leaned in closer…I closed my eyes and….BRRRRRRIIING BRRRRIING…my phone started going off like crazy. It startled me. I opened my eyes and saw Clark blink, turn a shade redder then normal and back away from me to the other side of the couch seemingly embarrassed. I sighed. of course he was embarrassed Chloe…he doesn’t want to kiss you it was just a moment of weakness. He wouldn’t look at me so I just grabbed my phone and answered it. My voice came out a little sharp.

“Hello.”

“Whoa there cuz…what’s got your panties in such a twist?”

I moved off the couch and put my shoes on.

“Hey Lois. Sorry nothing. I was just heading home.”

I could hear the worry in her voice.

“You’re just leaving The Planet now? It’s kind of late Chloe. You should really think about getting your schedule changed or something. You shouldn’t be wondering around alone at night in Metropolis.”

She worried too much but she didn’t have to because I wasn’t in Metropolis.

“I’m at Clark’s Lo but I’m leaving now so I’ll see you soon. Unless you wanted something?”

I could hear her banging something on the other end.

“Nope. It was getting late. Just wanted to make sure you weren’t abducted by aliens or anything.”

That made me smirk. If she only new…

“Well everything’s fine and that’s a negative on the alien thing. I’ll see you in a little bit Lois.”

She said bye and we hung up. I grabbed my bag and went to leave but Clark’s voice stopped me.

“You don’t have to go Chloe.”

His voice was sincere but he couldn’t even look me in the eye. If I stayed here tonight things were going to be so awkwardly uncomfortable that it just wasn’t worth the trouble.

“That ’s alright Clark I should go. I’ll talk to you tomorrow ok?”

He hesitated.

“Chloe…wait…about what happened…”

I turned around and plastered a smile on my face.

“its fine Clark…let’s just chalk it up to sleep deprivation and male hormones…I gotta go. See you later.”

And I left. My car was waiting in front of the Kent’s house. I got in and headed on my way home paying very close attention to the road on the drive home.

(Clark POV)

The door shut behind Chloe and I groaned. This was not good. I just put the moves on my pregnant best friend. I got off the couch and started pacing around the living room. She left in such a hurry what if she’s mad at me. I didn’t mean for that to happen it’s not like I planned it or something. I just…she was laying there with her feet in my hands, her eyes closed, lips parted…and I just couldn’t help myself. I had the strangest impulse to kiss her so I just…went for it. I sat back down and put my head in my hands. I was so confused. I love Lana…so much…but lately I’ve been feeling all these different things for Chloe. I don’t know exactly when it happened but I’ve started seeing Chloe as more than a friend. My mind was working over time when I heard the front door open. I looked up and my mom was walking through the door. When she saw me she smiled.

“Hey sweetheart. What are you doing down here?”

I shrugged. She moved into the kitchen and I followed behind her. She glanced in my direction and went into the refrigerator. She pulled out some milk, took out cookies and put everything in front of me. I looked up and gave her a weak smile.

“What’s the matter Clark?”

I moved my head to the side and rubbed the back of my neck.

“I’m having a little problem…”

She nodded and waited. I hesitated.

“I kind of…almost kissed Chloe tonight.”

My mom just nodded again. She didn’t even look shocked. Why is she acting like I almost kiss Chloe everyday? I was waiting for her to say something and yet nothing came.

“Mom…”

“Yes honey?”

I was quiet for a minute.

“Did you hear what I said?”

She got up and walked over to the sink and sighed.

“Clark…this…thing between you and Chloe has been building for years now.”

She turned around and I looked up at her confused. She sat back down and put a hand over mine.

“Clark…you and Chloe have been friends for years but there has always been something more lurking below the surface. You have to have known that.”

I nodded my head. I guess I did know that to some extent. I mean after the whole Zod incident when I came back I kind of thought Chloe and I were gonna get together but it never happened.

“What am I gonna do mom? I have all these feelings for Chloe but…I still love Lana and wouldn’t acting on my feelings for Chloe be unfair since I still have feelings for Lana?”

“I know that there will always be a place in your heart for Lana Clark…but are you sure you’re still in love with her? You’ve been spending an awful lot of time with Chloe and I haven’t really heard you mention Lana in a while now.”

I shrugged. Mom’s right I haven’t talked about Lana a lot lately but that doesn’t mean that I haven’t been thinking about her. I got up and glanced at my mom.

“Thanks mom…I’m…a…I’m gonna go to bed. I’ll see you in the morning.”

I walked upstairs before she could say anything else. I got undressed and laid in bed. My sheets still smelled like Chloe. Wonderful. I wasn’t getting to sleep anytime soon. I rolled over a few times before getting comfortable. It was time to sort out my feelings and I had a whole night to do it...

(Chloe POV)

I woke up to harsh tones of Lois’s hushed voice. I groaned and rolled over. If she was trying to be quiet she sure had a lot to learn. After a couple of minutes her voice just seemed to get louder so I sat up and rubbed my eyes. I looked at the clock it was eight fifteen. Crap I had to get up and get dressed. I have to be at The Planet today at eleven. I was walking toward the bathroom when Lois closed her phone. She turned in my direction.

“Oh hey Chloe.”

“Morning Lois.”

I was rushing around grabbing an outfit and make-up when Lois stopped me.

“What’s the rush?”

I sighed.
“It takes two hours to get to The Planet. I have to be there at eleven and I haven’t even showered yet.”

“Oh..well I’ll just get out of your hair then.”

I frowned. That was odd. Note to self something is definitely wrong with Lois. I’ll have to look into that later when I got a chance but right now I needed to get ready. I hopped in the shower and about forty-five minutes later I was heading out the door. I got to The Planet at eleven ten and started in on my work. Twenty minutes later I was coming out of the copy room when I saw Lana heading down the stairs. When she reached the bottom and saw me she gave me a small smile.

“Hey Chloe.”

I smiled.

“Hey Lana to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?”

She fiddled nervously with her purse handle.

“I need to talk to you about something…its personal can we go somewhere private?”

My face sobered and I placed my hand on her arm.

“Sure. Com on.”

I took her back to where I just came from and shut the door behind us.

“What’s going on Lana? Is everything ok?”

She hesitated before speaking.

“Everything’s fine”

I nodded and waited for her to tell me what was going on. After a couple of minutes of silence I spoke.

“Well?”

“Chloe, Lex proposed.”

I was shocked. I really hope she didn’t say yes.

“And?”

She drew out her words.

“And I haven't given him an answer yet”

I sighed in relief. He’s probably running around the mansion freaking out. Or possibly killing even more people because he’s angry.

“I'm sure that's going over well.”

She ignored the comment and continued.

“Lex and I are in a really great place right now, but when I actually heard those words, there was something that wouldn't let me say yes.”

Ah…I knew why she was here. Clark. It’s gotta be

“Something like Clark?”

She looked at me confused.

“Chloe…no. Why would this have anything to do with Clark?”

Huh…that’s odd. It usually always had something to do with Clark.

“Oh…ok…well then what’s the problem?”

She took a deep breath.

“I know Lex cares about me. He’s proven that on more than one occasion. But…I’m just worried that the only reason he proposed was because I’m pregnant. And I don’t want that. I want him to propose to me because he wants to not because of this baby.”

“Lana... I think that if you’re having doubts about his intentions then maybe you shouldn’t do it.”

She was contemplating me for a few minutes and slowly nodded at me. I could tell she didn’t like my answer though because her facial expression turned a little colder.

“Thanks Chloe…for the advice. I should get going though. I’ll talk to you later.

“Bye Lana.”

And a few minutes later she was gone. I went back to my desk and sat down. I can’t believe Lex proposed. Clark was going to be crushed. Poor Clark… I shook my head and glanced at the paperwork on my desk. I could use some coffee and food. I was starving. I rubbed my stomach, which was starting to swell just a bit and thought of where I could get food. I looked at my cell phone for a few minutes hoping it would ring. When it didn’t I picked it up and called Clark. After three rings he picked up.

“Hey Chloe.”

I smiled. I would not let things be weird…just play it cool Chloe

“Hey. Do you think you might be able to do me a favor?”

“Absolutely. What’s going on?”

I glanced around the office as I spoke.

“I’m really hungry. You think you can bring me some coffee and food?”

I could hear the smile in his voice.

“What do you want to eat?”

Hmmm what did I want? Oh I know…

“Think you could make a run to New York? I would love one of those hotdogs from the kiosks on the street.”

That sounded so good my mouth was watering. I heard him laughing on the other end and frowned.

“Stop laughing at me Clark. It’s really not that funny.”

“Ok…ok I’m done Chloe. Hot dog got it. I’ll get a couple and bring back everything they have to put on it. I’ll have them put that on the side. How’s that sound?”

My voice got soft.

“Great…thanks a lot Clark…I really appreciate it.”

“Sure thing I’ll be there soon.”

I hung up the phone and smiled to myself. Two seconds later it rang again. I rolled my eyes it was probably Clark calling back to ask if I wanted anything else.

“Hello?”

“Hello Chloe.”

I drew my eyebrows together. The voice sounded familiar but I couldn’t place it.

“Can I help you with something?”

“It’s Oliver…Queen.”

Oh. That’s why I recognized the voice. How’d he get my number?

“Oh. Hi Mr. Queen what can I do for you?”

“Oliver is fine. I was wondering if you’ve heard from Lois at all.”

“Lois…I talked to her this morning before I left for work but I haven’t heard from her since I left the apartment this morning. Why is everything ok?”

I asked getting worried. What has Lois gotten herself into now?

“I’m sure everything is fine. We were supposed to have lunch together and she’s about forty-five minutes late, which isn’t, like her. I have a meeting so I can’t wait any longer, but if you speak to Lois before I do will you let her know that?”

That really wasn’t like her. I wonder what’s up.

“Sure I can do that Oliver.”

“Thanks Chloe I’ll talk to you later.”

“Bye”

After I hung up I tried Lois’s cell phone but it was off. I shook my head. When I get my hands on her she’s dead. I sat back and started to write my next article while I waited for Clark.

(Lois POV)

I was finally going to find out who the green arrow was. I had a lead on a guy who has pictures of him so I made plans to meet him. I walked along the narrow ally by the dumpster and waited. I heard a noise behind me and turned.

“ScoopGirl?”

I saw Jimmy…Chloe’s Ex. Oh boy

“Hotshot485? You've got to be kidding me.”

He gave me a soft glare.

“I'm not the one up all night tooling the internet for Green Arrow pics. Don't you have a boyfriend?”

I ignored his snide remark.

“Do you have the photos?”

“You got the cash?”

I rolled my eyes and pulled out some money.

“I don't get it. Of all the photographers in Metropolis, how is it that you end up with the first shots of our merry archer?”

“I have my connections.”

I smirked sarcastically

“No. Really.”

“Oh, well, guy doesn't get out of the suicide slums much, so I just hung out there for a few weeks... in my car with my pepper spray and the doors locked.”

I laughed. I took the pictures and looked over them carefully. No face.

“This is it? A bunch of arms and legs? Nice work, hotshot. I mean, you didn't even manage to catch one shot of his face. All these tell me about Green Arrow is that he needs a band-aid.”

I was frustrated. I waited all this time so that I could finally pin point who the green arrow was and now nada…zilch…nothing.

“Well, at least you got a good look at that.”

I shook my head.

“Thanks for a lot of nothing Jimmy. I’ll see you around ok?”

I took off on the trek back to my car. When I got in I was heading back to Smallville when I realized I missed my lunch date with Oliver. Crap! I stood him up I’m a horrible girlfriend. I picked up my phone and called him. There were two rings and then it went to voicemail. He must be busy. I left him a message apologizing profusely and telling him I’d make it up to him however he wanted. I shook my head this green arrow thing was really keeping me pre-occupied. I had to let it go for right now…until I got a more substantial lead I was wasting my time. I will find out who he is, and when I do he’ll wish he was never born.

(Clark POV)

I ran to New York and got Chloe’s hotdogs. By the time I got to The Planet it was about twelve. I saw Chloe sitting at her desk diligently typing away. I came over and sat down.

“How goes the writing?”

She clicked a few more keys and then smiled as she turned in her seat.

“Done! You came at the perfect time.”

“Good to know. Here you go. I got three just in case you were really hungry.”

She grabbed the bag and dug in. As she ate I watched her and took the time to notice the subtly changes in her body. Her hair seemed longer and her skin was flushed with color. She was wearing a black satin top and a dark green skirt. She looked beautiful. I looked down and could see a small bump starting to show. It really was an overwhelming site. She caught me staring and shifted in her seat.

“What?”

“Huh?”

“Why were you staring at me? Is there something on my face that you are neglecting to tell me about?”

I smiled.

“No I was just looking at you. You look nice today Chloe.”

She beamed at me.

“Thanks Clark.”

I really wanted to talk about yesterday with her but I was afraid she’d pull away from and I didn’t want to risk that. Things seemed to be ok right now and I wanted to keep it that way.

“Hey when’s the next doctor’s appointment? I thought maybe…if you wanted I could…you know go with you…”

Chloe gave me half a smile and patted my arm.

“You don’t have to do that. It’s a simple checkup.”

I shrugged.

“I want to. Your almost fifteen weeks now. You could probably find out the sex of the baby if you wanted to.”

She nodded.

“Ok…it’s on Friday at nine.”

“Sounds like a plan.”

She finished all three hotdogs and threw all the garbage away.

“Mmm. That was great.”

I smiled. Ok I know I said I wouldn’t bring it up but I have to. I don’t want things to be weird between us. It’s already bad enough I have all these unresolved feelings for Chloe I didn’t need this tension tearing us apart.

“Listen Chloe. I know you said that you wanted to forget about what happened the other day but I don’t think that’s such a great idea. I mean…there was this moment…where..we almost kissed. I..how do you feel about that?”

She looked hesitant to speak so I took a deep breath and went first.

“B..because at first I was really scared about what happened. I mean you’re my best friend and I thought that I might have…ruined things with us…”

She cut me off and put her hand over mine. She looked at me sincerely and spoke with a soft voice.

“Clark there is no way something as trivial as what happened can destroy our friendship. We’re more stable then that.”

I nodded.

“Yea that’s what I figured. So then I got to thinking that maybe…maybe it wouldn’t have been so bad to…kiss you Chloe.”

I said the last part low and she looked shocked. If I wasn’t so nervous I would have tried to document the one and only Chloe Sullivan being shocked into silence.

I touched her arm.

“Chloe you still with me?”

“Uh yea…Clark you’re probably just thinking like that because you're lonely. That’s understandable.”

I frowned. She didn’t get it.

“Chloe stop. You know…whenever things have happened between us in the past one or both of us has always backed off. This time I’m prepared to do something about it. I’m not walking away Chloe I promise. So I need you to stop pushing me away.”

I heard her heartbeat. It was erratic. She was just as nervous as me but unlike her I’m, done running from how I feel. I spent all night last night thinking. Chloe and I have been best friends for years. She knows practically everything about me and still accepts me for who I am. She has always been my constant even when other people have wavered…including Lana. I like Chloe…I need her in my life and even though I will always have a place for Lana in my heart and a part of me will always love her she is my past. And I can see clear as day Chloe being my future. She was sitting there watching my face. Then hesitated before she spoke.

“Okay Clark. No more pushing you away. But I’m not sure I understand what it is that you’re saying.”

I know that’s not true, but she wanted to hear me say it. She wanted to be reassured. I could do that.

“Chloe…I know I have a lot of baggage and I’m not the easiest person to deal with and I’m a little bit emotionally retarded but I’d really like it if you could give me a chance.”

She scrunched up her eyebrows in a cute gesture.

“A chance?”

“Chloe I want you to move in with me. I want to be there for you…for the baby. I want the two of us to be a couple and…I want the three of us…”

I reached out my hand and put it on her slightly swollen belly.

“to be a family…I know it won’t be easy…nothing worthwhile ever is. I’m probably gonna make a lot of mistakes along the way…and I’ll need you to try and be understanding while I put Lana behind me. But know that I want you…know that at this point in my life even if I could have Lana back I’d choose you because you’re the person Chloe…the person who’s gonna help me become the man my dad always said I would be. You’re already doing it everyday…”

I looked down for a second. My hands felt sweaty and I wiped them on my pants then looked back up at her. She had tears in her eyes and I wasn’t sure if that was good or bad. I could see fear on her face but also astonishment at my revelation and possibly even happiness? I took a hold of her hand.

“Give me a chance Chloe. I know there’s a million things going through your head right now because well…you wouldn’t be you if there wasn’t but just…don’t say no because your scared to be with me…only say no if you honesty don’t care about me the way I do you...a…and if that’s the case then…we’ll it’ll suck but I’ll still be here for you, because no matter what you’ll always be my best friend.”

I sat back in my seat and just looked at her. That was the end of my long embarrassing speech. The tears in her eyes were threatening to spill over and she still hadn’t said anything. I don’t know what I’d do if she turned me down…to be honest I can’t even believe I got up enough courage to say all this to her but I’m glad I did no matter how it turns out. At least this time I didn’t run away from what I felt…I embraced it…


Chapter 6 Part B

(Chloe POV)

I woke up to birds chirping and the sun shining on me through the curtains. I moved my body back a bit and came into contact with a very large, very warm body. He must have felt me move because he mumbled something and pulled me closer against him. I smiled. I turned over in his arms to face him and he was still fast asleep. God he looks so peaceful. If only that expression could be on his face all the time. I started to giggle when I heard his snoring get louder. Ha-Ha Clark Kent snores! I can’t wait to pick on him about it. As I waited for him to wake up my mind drifted back to last night’s conversation.

“Give me a chance Chloe. I know there’s a million things going through your head right now because well…you wouldn’t be you if there wasn’t but just…don’t say no because your scared to be with me…only say no if you honesty don’t care about me the way I do you...a…and if that’s the case then…we’ll it’ll suck but I’ll still be here for you, because no matter what you’ll always be my best friend.”

He sat there looking so sincere. But I wasn’t sure if I could believe him. Not that Clark would lie to me but…I mean he has been known to hurt me unintentionally and I just wasn’t sure if I could go through that again. I was quiet for a while and Clark started to fidget, which made me smile. I looked at him…really looked at him. Things were changing and this was my chance; if I ever wanted to have my shot with Clark now was the time. I was scared, I wasn’t sure if it was going to work out, and I didn’t know how Lana was going to take the news…but at this moment I just didn’t care. I moved out of my seat and was in front of him in seconds. He looked up confused and I leaned down and pulled him to me. I kissed him and the minute his lips touched mine it felt like electricity was coursing through my body. I felt alive. God he was invigorating. Then he was standing up with me in his arms kissing me back. My hands wound themselves around his neck while one of his hands was on the small of my back pulling me closer and the other was on the side of my face angling my head to meet his.


I shook my head and smiled. Just thinking about it gives me chills. Clark’s still sleeping and I’m getting bored. Hmm I wonder if he’ll be mad if I wake him up. I moved my face closer to his and spoke in a soft whisper.

“Clark…”

His snoring stopped and his breathing pattern changed but his eyes didn’t open. All of a sudden his grip tightened and he pulled me over on top of him. I squealed at the quick movement and laughed. My voice was playful.

“Clark! What are you doing?

He smiled up at me and finally opened his eyes. They were shinning with good humor.

“Morning Chloe.”

“Morning.”

With his smile still planted on his face he leaned up and gave me a tentative kiss. After a couple of seconds I deepened the kiss and he wound up rolling us over so he was looking down on me. He moved his mouth down over my neck and then on my ear and finally back to my lips. Kissing Clark Kent was extraordinary…making out with him was literally out of this world. He new exactly what to where to put his….hands? oh my god. I pulled back from him for a minute and he looked confused.
When he looked at me his eyes were smoldering and his voice was husky.

“What’s wrong Chloe?”

Then is expression changed to horror and he practically leaped off me.

“Oh my god…did I hurt you? Did I hurt...the baby? Oh Chloe I’m so sorry…I didn’t…I didn’t mean to…”

And his words trailed off, as he stood their looking ashamed of himself. I shook my head and sat up in bed. Ok that all happened really fast. I looked him in the eye and spoke softly.

“Clark…look at me.”

He did.

“You didn’t hurt me…not at all…or the baby. Kissing you is…amazing.”

I smiled at him to show him I was serious. He smiled a little to when he heard that.

“I stopped you because um..well you had your…your hand it was…and I just…we should take this slow.”

He looked so adorable standing over there with his ruffled bed hair with an extreme look of confusion covering his face.

“What are you talking about Chloe?”

I rolled my eyes. Sometimes Clark’s innocent nature blocked even him from the simplest of things. I stood up also because it was probably late and I needed to go home and get ready. I saw Clarks eyes follow my movement and then look up and down my body. His eyes darkened again and he took a step in my direction. I held out a hand.

“Stop right their mister.”

He looked startled but did what I said.

“There you go again.”

And this time I laughed.

“Your hand was going into uncharted territory Clark…you know…places you’ve never been before…definitely out of the friendship realm of touching.”

He smiled then faltered.

“Well Chloe…we’ve upgraded our relationship from friends so the kissing thing…I kind of thought that came with our new status…unless you want to slow down…I mean I’d completely understand.”

He’s such a dork.. I was gonna have to spell it out for him.

“Clark this kissing is great and yes all the boundaries are different now but we haven’t discussed it. I would be insulted if you didn’t try to kiss me.”

He smiled and I continued.

“But I think hands roaming the lower…area of my body is jumping a few bases their Casanova.”

He looked horrified.

“Chloe, I didn’t, I would never do anything…like that without your permission. I wouldn’t just assume..I mean..I wouldn’t…”

He fumbled with his words and I laughed out loud. He looked at me and frowned.

“This isn’t funny. You thinking I’d do that hurts Chloe.”

I stopped laughing when I realized he was serious I walked over and put my hand on his arm.

“Clark relax. You did do it but it was totally unconsciously done. I don’t even think you realized it and that’s fine. It’s ok for stuff like that to happen. And I know you’d never force anything on to me so relax. I was only being semi serious. Jeez…this relationship is gonna be harder then I thought.”

I said the last part with playful annoyance and then gave him a grin. He shook his head and smiled back before pulling me to him and kissing my head.

“What did I get myself into?”

I chuckled.

“I’ve been asking myself the same question Kent.”

We got dressed and he drove me over to the Talon. I went upstairs and changed and when I came down I saw Clark ordering coffee and muffins for us. I cannot believe that Clark and I are an item. I shook my head and went over to where they kept the papers. I grabbed today’s edition of The Planet and started to read as I walked over to Clark…..OH. MY. GOD. How in the world did this get in the paper? I can’t let Clark find out this way I have to tell him. Crap! He walked over to me with a grin on his face and two coffees.

“Have you seen the Daily Planet this morning?”

He looked confused.

“No. Why? Should I have?”

I let out a loud breath. I really shouldn’t be telling him this it’s not my place but I can’t let him find out that way I just can’t.

My voice was gentle but a little frantic.

“Okay. God, I can't let you read this in the paper. Lex proposed to Lana.”

He looked shocked for a minute but then schooled his features.

“What did she say?”

Remember Chloe when you guys talked last night he said he would need you to be understanding about the whole Lana thing…she isn’t his future. You are…right now maybe if I repeated it a hundred times a day the bad feeling in the pit of my stomach would go away.

“She hasn't given him an answer.”

I handed him the paper. And he skimmed the article. He glanced at me with his brows drawn together.

“It says here it's because of me. Is this true? Chloe?”

I shook my head.

“No…I mean I don’t know. She came to The Planet yesterday and we talked. She told me Lex proposed but something made her hesitate. I immediately thought it was you and I said that. Lana said it wasn’t though. She said that she felt Lex only proposed to her because of the baby…and she didn’t want his obligation to put them into a marriage he didn’t want to be in.”

Clark nodded. I couldn’t read his face and that scared me.

“I tried so hard to not let this Lana and Lex thing bother me... if she marries Lex though, there's no going back. That’s it.”

I wanted to cry and I tried so hard to not show it. Clark being Clark though caught the pain on my face and his face softened from the mask he had on. He caressed my arm slightly.

“I’m here Chloe. I’m not going anywhere. Yea it hurts but I’ll get over it because I have you. What I meant before was that…if she marries him then all of this really is over our friendship your friendship with her everything. You know how Lana feels about secrets….and you and I have the biggest ones. Lex is out for some kind of revenge and I don’t want Lana to be caught in the middle because of us.”

I could understand that. Lana is like a sister to me and I don’t want her to get hurt. But she really does care about Lex and the fact that he’s been letting her see sides of him no one else does really isn’t helping mine and Clarks cause.

“We can't let her do this.”

He started to walk away from me. I turned around to catch him.

“Whoa, Clark. Wait a minute. What are you going to do?”

“I’m going to go talk to her. See if maybe I can talk her out of this.”

I shook my head. I held up the paper and waved it at him.

“Given the headlines from this morning I don’t really see you being on the guest list at the mansion. Maybe you should wait to talk to Lana another time Clark when this isn’t so fresh…”

“No the sooner we convince her, the better off we’ll all be.”

I sighed and followed him.

“Alright let’s go.”

He stopped dead in his tracks and turned to look at me.

“Your not coming. I don’t want you anywhere near Lex Chloe.”

I frowned.

“But Clark…”

His head was already shaking.

“No…please just…I need to know that you two are safe. Seeing you and Lex in the same room as each other…it doesn’t do good things to me. I’ll be back soon ok?”

I let out a puff of breathed that blew my bangs up.

“Fine Clark…whatever.”

He rolled his eyes and smiled.

“Don’t be mad Chloe. I'll see you in a little bit.”
He leaned down and kissed me before he left. I smiled as he walked away. He looked over his shoulder and smirked in my direction.

“I could definitely get used to that.”

I laughed and he was gone.

(Lana POV)

I heard the door creak open and rolled over to face the door. I smiled. Lex had a breakfast try full of food and a rolled up paper on it. I sat up and he placed the try down for me.

“You didn't have to do that.”

He smiled but it was strained.

“I was feeling alone waiting for your answer. I didn't realize I had so much company.”

I gave him a confused look. I looked down at the paper and saw the front page. Oh my god! Who would write this. I never said those things !Chloe…she’s the only person who mentioned Clark…damn-it. I should have known better then go to. I knew she hated Lex but I never thought she’d go this far.

“I don't know what to say.”

He picked up the paper.

“Then let me. "When I was with Clark, I would have said yes without hesitating." You know, the worst part of waiting... was dwelling on all the reasons why you might be stalling. At least now I know.”

He looked so hurt and even though he was trying his best to keep it off his face I saw it. I grabbed his hand gently.

“Lex, I didn’t say those things…I swear to you…I have been hesitating yes…but Clark’s not the reason why…I’m just…”

And then my phone started to go off right when there was a knock on our door. I looked away from Lex and at my phone. It was Chloe. Wonderful…she’s probably calling for a follow-up. I shook me head and Lex told whoever was at the door to come in. it was one if the assistants.

“Mr. Luthor, you have a guest.”

He looked at me.

“We can finish our discussion when I get back alright?”

I nodded and he got up and left to see who was here. I sighed. I needed to get dressed and do some extreme control damage.

(Lex POV)

I headed out of the room and walked toward my study. She say’s this isn’t about Clark…and yet the news is splashed all over the paper. Lana has never lied to me before though. Ever since we got together I’ve been honest with her…about the things I believe she can handle. And she’s surprised me with a few things of her own. I remember Christmas last year and I remember what it felt like to have Lana by my side. I wanted that…but I didn’t have to give up wealth and power for it…I could have both and I would. I opened the door and saw Clark standing in the study. Well, well, well speak of everybody’s white knight. He faced me and frowned.

“They said Lana was here.”

Of course after he saw the paper he’d come here…like a dog begging for a bone. The first sign that he could get Lana away from me and here he was presenting himself as some kind of prize.

“She was. But I'm afraid you just missed her.”

He glared at me.

“I'll come back later.”

As he started to walk out I moved closer to him and spoke. My voice amused at his audacity.

“So you really think you can convince her? You think you can talk her out of making the biggest mistake of her life by marrying me?”

He turned with angered in his eyes and I smiled inwardly.

“We both know that you swept in after –“

I cut him off.

“After you crushed her?”

He huffed and I had to laugh. Clark was sitting so high on his pedestal that he couldn’t see that I make Lana happier then he ever did because I don’t lie to her…well not nearly as much as he had anyway.

“You knew she was vulnerable, and you played her until she thought she was in love with you.”

I grinned. Lana is a lot more like me then he gives her credit for. I don’t know why he hasn’t opened his eyes enough to see that side of her…but I have. And I like it.

“If you really see Lana as that naive, you obviously don't think as much of her as I do.”

He looked mad…but he controlled his anger and instead gave me a small sarcastic smile.

“It must be eating at you that she's hesitating -- wondering why she hasn't given you an answer.”

Ok this has gone on enough. Clark might always think he is one up on me…but I have so many sleeves he'd never be able to crawl up the right one.

“Lana spoke with me this morning Clark. She told me the things that were written in this morning’s paper were untrue. And I believe her. That’s the difference between you and me Clark. I trust Lana because she’s never given me any reason not to.”

He looked away. Good that got him. And here’s a little salt for the wound.

“Why are you here Clark? Lana doesn’t want you back…”

I paused and right when he was about to speak I continued.

“What would Chloe do if she found out you were here to plead your case to Lana about leaving me for you.

He sneered and his voice grew louder.

“I’m not here to break up your engagement so Lana can be with me. I’m here because Lana is my friend and I don’t want to see her get hurt by you.”

I walked over to my desk and sat down.

“Well as I said before Clark. Lana isn’t here so if you don’t mind leaving I have things to attend to.”

He glared hard in my direction and walked out. I glanced at my laptop and opened a private screen. I entered the password and a video popped up. I smiled. They're not going to know what hit them…

(Chloe POV)

I’ve been at work most of the morning since Clark left. I’ve been looking into Linda Lake to be more specific. I wanted to know how she heard some of what Lana was saying to me. I called Lana earlier to try and talk to her but she didn’t answer. I guess I couldn’t blame her but I was kind of hoping she had more faith in me than that…guess not. Hmmm Linda Lake used to work in Smallville as a local reporter. I was reading an article about how she was caught in the second Meteor shower when I heard Lois’s voice. I looked up and she was waving around a copy of this morning’s paper. I grinned.

“So the old Q-Ball proposed to Lana?”

I chuckled and she sat down across from me.

“Is all this true? I mean is Lana still stuck on Smallville? Cause I kind of thought that ship has already sailed…with you know…”

She motioned to my stomach.

“with everything.”

I sighed. Yes that’s right. Clark and I still haven’t gotten around to telling everyone the truth. About the baby not being his that is. Clark wanted to wait until I got off bed rest so Lois wouldn’t freak about me staying with him. Then after that he just kept putting it off and I finally stopped mentioning it. I took the paper from Lois and threw it away.

“No it’s not true. I mean Lana cam by yesterday and told me about the proposal but she didn’t mention Clark not once. She was worried about something else all together and that why she hasn’t given Lex an answer yet.”

She grabbed the paper out of the trashcan and opened it back up looking intently at the photos on the page. She scrunched up her nose.

“You would at least think that with the billions baldy over here has he could at least afford to buy himself a decent toupee.”

She shrugged and I laughed loudly. She put the paper on the table and stood up. She glared down at me.

“Do I even need to ask where you spent last night?”

I looked back at the computer and starting printing.

“Clark’s.”

She snorted.

“Figures…what it is with Smallville that makes all the women of your Podunk town flock to him like a pack of oversexed morons. I mean seriously I thought better of you Chloe you’re a Metropolis girl…we don’t chase after anyone.”

I smiled.

“You wouldn’t understand even if I could explain it to you Lois.”

“Whatever…I’ll never get why everyone thinks Smallville's so great…but anyway Chloe I gotta head out. I’m meeting Oliver for an afternoon of yoga.”

I nodded to her and she left. I shook my head. Lois was the only person who could make Clark seem like the dorky farm boy he really isn’t. the thought made me laugh as I continued my search for what Linda Lake’s Meteor power might be…

(Lois POV)

Ollie and I were in the midst of bending our bodies in a way I wasn’t sure I was supposed to bend. He was standing over me spotting me and I was getting dizzy.

“Ah. Okay, how long do I have to do this for?”

He chuckled.

“What was it that you said, huh? Yoga is glorified stretching with chants.”

I rolled my eyes as best I could in my position

“Little bit different perspective from down here.”

He was moving his hands on my body and it made Goosebumps appear.

“Well, this is a good way to strengthen your core, trust me. Whoa! Oh!”

My Core huh? I’d show him strength. I flipped him over and landed on top.

“I didn't realize that my core was in question.”

His eyes were dark and he grinned up at me.

“You really want to keep talking?”

I shook my head.

“No.”

He kissed me and I started to grab his shirt and pull it off when I noticed the large bash on his upper arm. I froze. Those pictures that Jimmy gave me…didn’t the green arrow have the same gash on his arm? Oh my…Oliver tried to pull me down and again but I stopped. And pointed to his arm.

“Hey. Oh, it's a scratch. Don't worry about it.”

I raised an eyebrow

“A scratch, huh?”

He started kissing my neck.

“Mm-hmm.”

I pushed him away. I was still sitting on his lap though.
“How did that happen?”

He looked confused then spoke up as he tried to pull me closer.

“Um, it was a fencing accident.”

They don’t use real blades in fencing…I didn’t think anyway not when you were teaching.

“With a real blade?”

He tried to brush it off and by the things he was saying I could just tell he wasn’t telling me the truth.

“Uh, you know, the tip snapped off and caught me. Trust me, it looks worse than it feels, okay? I promise.”

I stopped him and got up. I kissed him and grabbed my bag.

“Thank you for all of the chakra reorganizing, but I have to go.”

He was still on the floor stunned and stuttering. Just the way I like them!

“Well, I mean, uh...”

I ran out of the apartment into the elevator.

“Goodbye.”

When the doors shut and the elevator started to go down I reached into my bag and pulled out the photos. I was right…the Green arrow had the same cut in the same place as Oliver. This called for some major research…I got off the elevator and went home to do some to find out if Oliver the man I’m falling in love with has an alter ego who has a fetish for green leather…


(Clark POV)

I rubbed the back of my neck as I started walking up the stairs to my loft. Lex really makes me mad. I hate that he can get to me. I wasn’t paying attention until I heard someone speaking to me.

“Smallville, sorry about the article. It's bad enough to have a broken heart, but to have it splashed all over the newspapers...”

Why was she here? She always just shows up and I’m not in the mood for it right now. I gave her a smirk.

“I guess that's what reporters do, don't they?”

“Okay, I think that little zinger just ricocheted off of Linda Lake and hit me.”

But she didn’t take the bait, which was odd cause she usually does. It’s what Lois and I do fight. But she wasn’t yelling and it made me feel kind of bad.

“Look, I'm sorry. People keep secrets for a reason.”

She made a noise in the back of her throat and glared.

“I don't know. If you ask me, I think a secret is just a big loophole in the whole "thou shall not lie" clause.”

I shook my head. Lois didn’t understand. She didn’t have any secrets that were harmful to her or the people she loved.

“There's just no gray area with you, is there?”

She stood up then and looked at me defiantly.

“Not when someone I thought I knew better than anyone has been keeping the biggest secret of all.”

OH MY GOD…She can’t possibly know. There is no way. I played it cool.

“What are you talking about?”

She walked closer to me.

“What would you do if one day you realized someone close to you had a serious hero complex?”

Okay, it’s official, I’m going to have a heart attack. I looked at her a bit uneasy. I have no clue what is going on and that’s bad.

“Hero complex?”

I practically squeaked it out.

“Hiding his true identity from everyone he supposedly cares about. You can't tell me you wouldn't find something wrong with that.”

Oh man…this is it she knows.

“Who exactly are we talking about Lois?”

She folder her arms across her chest.

“Green arrow, A.K.A. Oliver Queen.”

I was so relieved. Wait that’s not good either. Crap!

“Oliver.”

She nodded.

“Jimmy snapped photos of Green Arrow getting slashed in the arm exactly where Ollie's arm is cut. Plus, the time printed on the photos is exactly the same time Ollie disappeared on me that same night.”

What did I say to that? I mean it’s true Oliver was the green arrow but I can’t tell her that.

“When are you planning to unload this theory on Oliver?”

She smiled.

“I need proof first -- definitive proof. That's where I thought you might come in handy”

I groaned great just what I needed, an adventure with Lois…It’s gonna be a long day.

(Chloe POV)

I walked into my apartment to find Clark rifling through Lois’s purse. He heard the door and turned towards me.

“I swear I'm losing my scare reflex because of you.”

He gave me a small smile and then looked down at his hands in her purse and back at me.

“Lois asked me to –“

I cut him off. Who was he kidding? Does he even know who he’s talking to?

“Oh, please, Clark. Are you going to tell me why you're digging in Lois' purse, snoop dog? Wait. Let me guess. You're covering for the new pledge of your hero fraternity.”

He sighed and moved away from her purse.

“Last time Lois said she had a lead on the Green Arrow, she was just bluffing. Now she says Jimmy has shots that will help I.D. him.”

I was startled. Since when did my cousin and Jimmy work together? Especially now that we weren’t even together.

“Jimmy? He's moonlighting for Lois?”

He must have seen I was upset because he came over and wrapped his arms around my waist. I looked up and he smiled.

“Hey.”

I relaxed into him and smiled. I replied softly.

“Hey.”

I leaned up and he accepted my kiss. When we broke apart he was grinning.

“I haven’t seen you all day Chloe…I missed you.”

I laughed.

“I missed you to Clark. Don’t think that changing the subject is gonna get you off that easily.”

He moved out of my reach and leaned against the kitchen counter with his arms crossed.

“How are you feeling Chloe?”

I threw my stuff down by the door.

“Tired but fine.”

I plopped on the couch and Clark followed me over. I lifted my legs so he could sit and then put then on him last. He smirked at me and started to rub my feet like last time.

“Oh man Clark…you’re the best boyfriend ever. Hmmm it must be the non-human status. Just think get your very own alien from another planet…they train much better then human boys.”

I grinned evilly at him and he tried to look serious when he spoke.

“For the record... I prefer "intergalactic traveler" over "alien from another planet."

I chuckled and he continued his ministrations. I let my head fall back on the couch. About ten minutes later his cell phone rang. He sighed and picked it up.

“Hello”

He rolled his eyes.

“Hey Lois…yea about that I have a really great idea. Yea. A way to find out if Oliver is green arrow without having to tell him. Mmm Hmm. Yup ok. Give me a few and I’ll meet you at Oliver’s place. Ok….bye”

He hung up and I raised an eyebrow.

“Lois thinks Oliver is the green arrow.”

I laughed.

“I see…and you Clark Kent are helping her discover the truth?”

He shrugged and nodded.

“I gotta get going. I’m supposed to meet her there soon I told her I was in Metropolis so it wouldn’t take me to long.”

“Okay”

I lifted my legs up and then put them back down when he got up. He leaned over me and kissed me.

“I know we haven’t said anything about us yet but if it’s okay I’d like to tell my mom.”

I smiled.

“That’s fine Clark. Where not in hiding…I just want to make sure that one or both of us tell Lana before it gets all over.”

He nodded and then kissed me again…and again. I laughed into his lips.

“Clark you have to go.”

He groaned good-naturedly. He got to the door and turned to face me.

“Have you told Lois the good news yet?”

I scrunched my brows in confusion.

“What good news?”

“That soon she’s gonna have her apartment all to herself again?”

I looked down. No I hadn’t…not yet. Clark was going to help me move my stuff over to the farm after the doctor’s appointment on Friday. I gave him a sheepish smile.

“I will I promise Clark.”

He nodded and took off. I leaned my head back and decided to try calling Lana again it couldn’t hurt it’s been like eight hours since I tried. She can’t avoid me forever.

(Lana POV)

I was waiting in the study for Lex to get back from another meeting. We never got to finish our conversation from this morning because after he had that visitor he was called into a meeting. I heard the door open and I looked up from the book I was reading. I closed it and stood up. Lex smiled and walked over to me. I put my arms around his neck and leaned up for a kiss, which he returned. My voice was soft.

“Hey. Long day?”

He nodded.

“Yea. How are you feeling this evening?”

He stepped around me and put his stuff down on the desk then turned to face me. He was leaning against his desk with his arms gently folded.

“Fine. I was hoping we could talk. We never did get to finish our conversation from earlier.”

“Of course.”

I went and sat on the couch and he brought over two glasses. One with a scotch for him and sparkling water for me. I smiled my thanks and took the cup.

“Lana before you..”

I cut him off.

“Please let me go first. I have a few things to say and I don’t know how long my courage will hold up.”

I stood up because right now I really couldn’t sit down I had too much energy in me.

“Yesterday I went to the Planet to see Chloe.”

I could see his body tense for a minute before it relaxed.

“I told her that you proposed but…something wouldn’t let me say yes right away.”

I sat right in front of him and took his hand.

“But I swear to you Lex that thing…that made me hesitate…it wasn’t Clark.”

I could tell he wanted to interrupt me but I wouldn’t let him.

“No…I’m not done yet. Clark was my first love and a part of me will always love him, but Clark is in my past Lex. He will always have a place in my heart but you’re the man I love. The man I’m in love with. The man I’m going to be having a family with…a family that neither of us ever had but will have now.”

I placed my hand on my stomach. He put his drink down and moved to the edge of the chair. He put his hand over mine and I swear I could see tears in his eyes.

“Lana..”

He paused. It looked like he was collecting himself.

“I’ve been trying to interrupt you because this morning when you told me you didn’t say what was in the article…I believed you. There has never been a time since we started this relationship that you’ve been dishonest with me. So why would you start now? You never had to worry about making me believe you because you don’t need to earn my trust. You already have it.”

I had tears in my eyes and I sat on the table in front of him and he leaned in to kiss me. He pulled me onto the couch so we were laying on it together. His hands were going through my hair and I had my head against his chest listening to his steady heartbeat. About ten minutes later he broke the silence.

“A million dollars for your thoughts.”

I laughed softly and he smiled. But by the look in his eyes I knew he was going to bring it up. He wanted to know if I had an answer for him after all this…He spoke quietly and honestly to me.

“Sorry. My comic timing is the first to go after my nerves. You know, in all my life, I've... I've never made an offer when I was afraid of the answer. Till now.”

I moved so I could see his face better.

“You've been so patient.”

“Doesn't feel like it.”

The truth is he has though and he knows it.

“I have a confession to make…”

“I’m all ears.”

“The reason I went to Chloe was…I was afraid…

He looked confused.

“I was afraid that the only reason you wanted to be with me…was because I’m having your child.”

I sat up and looked down on him.

“I don’t want you to feel like you have to marry me because of this baby. I want you to do it because you want to.”

Lex looked incredibly shocked. Is eyes actually looked like they might have bugged right out of his head. He moved so he was sitting up more fully.

“Lana…what in the world would make you think I proposed out of some chivalric obligation?”

I shrugged and he sighed.

“I asked you to marry me because I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”

He smiled.

“I can’t believe this is what you were worried about…”

I looked down.

“You deserve someone who won’t hesitate to love you the way you love them.”

He seemed to understand what I was saying and he tipped my chin up with his fingers.

“Lana, with the life I've led, I go to bed praying every night that I don't get what I deserve. You get bitter... and vengeful. And then you meet someone who's so good... that she might be the one person who could learn to love you. I would wait forever for that.”

I smiled through my tears.

“You don't have to. I’m sorry I questioned your reason for asking because now I see that I have someone right in front of me who I know trusts me... and who lets me see sides of him no one else does.”

I could see a small grin on his face and he took a deep breath just before speaking.

“So just for clarification...”

I laughed.

“Yes, Lex Luthor. I will marry you”

He leaned down and I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him. My cell phone interrupted us. He chuckled and moved back. I smiled.

“I should get that.”

He nodded and then caught my arm.

“One second. Let voice mail get it I need to give you something.”

I walked over to the mantle with him and he pulled out the box my ring was in. I grinned and held my hand out. He turned and smiled.

“Eager are we?”

“Indeed.”

He slipped it on my finger and kissed me. Then his cell phone went off. He sighed and shook his head.

“I have to go. I’m sorry. I wanted to maybe go to Metropolis and celebrate. How about tomorrow evening?”

“Sounds perfect.”

He nodded grabbed his things, kissed me and left. I walked over to my phone and saw a missed call from Chloe I really should call her. I picked up my phone and dialed.

(Clark POV)

It was eleven thirty at night. I was tired. Oh yea…and did I mention I’m mad at Oliver Queen. When Lois first told me of her suspicion that the green arrow was Oliver I tried to get the evidence away from her so she couldn’t prove it. When that didn’t work I told Oliver Lois was on to him and we hatched up a plan that coincided with the plan Lois and I put together to catch Oliver. When Lois left to get ice the fake thugs were going to attack her and she was going to call Oliver. Cue me dressing up like the green arrow and coming to her rescue and then Oliver showing up a couple of seconds later thus proving her theory wrong. Nowhere in this plan did it say Lois kisses the green arrow. But boy did she…she laid one on me and I was so shocked I didn’t pull away. I shook my head as I walked home. Chloe was going to kill me if she ever found out. How do these things always happen to me. I got into the barn and walked up the stairs. When I got to the top I saw Chloe. I smiled and walked further in and then I saw her face. I rushed over.

“Chloe what happened? Are you ok?”

I moved her hair aside so I could see the cut better. She gently pushed my hand away.

“I’m fine Clark. No worries just a little work place scuffle.”

I gave her a confused look and she sighed.

“Short version?”

I gave her an affirmative nod.

“I found out who leaked Lana’s story. Linda Lake. She was in Smallville during the last Meteor shower and wound up with the power to become water or something. She was spying on Lana and I. When she heard me bring up your name she decided to put her own spin on what she heard. I finally got a hold of Lana and we talked.”

She grinned at me.

“Then we teamed up to get dirt on Linda Lake. Lana was listening and watching in the car and when things got out of hand and Linda and I got into a fight it spilled into the street and Lana accidentally hit Linda with her car.”

I was looking at her. She had a proud smile on her face and her skin was flushed. I have no clue what to say. My girlfriend is crazy…and I absolutely love it. I gave her a little grin.

“Well at least your ok…maybe next time you could call me just incase…I know you like getting involved with this stuff Chloe and I would never tell you not to because this is who you are. It’s one of the reasons I care about you so much. But while your making decisions for two maybe you should cut down on the dangerous activity. I don’t want anything happening to you…or the baby”

She gave me a warm smile and climbed over onto my lap. I moved us back onto the couch so my back was against the cushions and Chloe’s legs were on either side of mine.

“I think that can be arranged.”

“Good…now come here.”

She laughed and I smiled into her neck. God she’s beautiful. There isn’t anyone out there like Chloe. She’s the only person who can bring out the playful side of me and I love that a
__________________
The Bible is so powerful. It's not to be left on your shelf. It's to outline even the simplest scriptures that can mean so much in building yourself up.

"I am God's workmanship." (Ephesians 2:10)

"I have been redeemed and forgiven." (Colossians 1:14)

"I am the salt and the light of the earth." (Matthew 5:13-14)

David Harvey
Morrisville, NC
davidharvey25@nc.rr.com
Posted:  05 Dec 2007 05:19
Here's Chapter 7 Part A, it is broken over three parts per the 70,000 word posting limit of the board.

Quote:


Chapter 7 Part A

(Chloe POV)

I was walking down the stairs into the basement of The Planet when my phone rang.

“Hello.”   

“Hey you.”

I smiled.

“Hey. What’s up? I thought you were hunting down zoners tonight.”

I heard him sigh.

“I am. I was just checking in on you. I called the house but mom said you weren’t home yet.”

“I have that meeting tonight remember?”

“Right…”

I sighed. I know that he was trying to get the zoners back into the phantom zone and i really felt bad asking him this but I could really use him here.

“Clark, I know hunting down Zoners is your top priority, but if you haven't found anything in South America, we still have a situation back here in Kansas we need to deal with.”

“Dr. Casselli right? I really didn’t want you meeting him alone. How long until he’s supposed to be there?”

“He'll be here in 15 minutes.”

“Ok. I’ll make sure I’m there.”

I smiled into the phone.

“Okay. Great. I’ll see you in a few.”

I walked over to my desk and went through some papers. I couldn’t find what I was looking for and I wasn’t sure why. I saw a shadow on the wall and looked up. Oh crap. He’s early. Hurry up Clark.

“Dr. Casselli. You're early.”

I walked a little bit closer to him and then stopped about three feet away.

“You are annoyingly persistent, Miss Sullivan. I've already told you - I don't know anything.”

I took a deep breath. Relax Chloe you never have a problem doing things like this…just breathe.

“Don't sell yourself short, doctor. I think you're a very knowledgeable man. In the last few months, over a dozen patients have been transferred out of the high-security wing at Belle Reeve. And I believe that's your signature on all the paperwork.”

He was looking a little unstable and his eyes shifted all over looking around the room.

“Patients are transferred in and out of mental facilities all the time.”

He looked to the side then back at me. He was starting to make me nervous. But I needed to find out more about 33.1 so we can figure out what Lex is doing with all these Meteor infected people.

“Even ones that exhibit unusual abilities? Where are they transferred to? Is Luthorcorp involved? Does this have anything to do with 33.1?”

Dr. Casselli pulled out a gun from under his jacket and pointed it at me. I put my hands up. Oh god…why didn’t I listen to Clark when he told me stay away from the dangerous stories…right because I’m me.

“Okay. I'll take that as a "no comment."”

Come on Clark….where are you?

“I didn't want any of this. But it was so much money.”

I heard him take the safety off and my body tensed. All of a sudden a red flash of light flew across the office and Dr. Casselli fell to the floor unconscious and the gun wound up in my hand. I turned when I heard a whoosh of air behind me. Clark’s face was pale. He ran over and pulled me to him so he could check my body for injuries.

“Chloe? You okay?”

He put his hand on my stomach and shook his head.

“Chloe…you really need to start begin more careful.”

I rolled my eyes trying not to show how freaked out I was.

“Yeah, yeah. Just in the nick of time, as always.”

He looked confused.

“It wasn't me. He was already down when I got here.”

I raised an eyebrow.

“What? Well, if it wasn't you, then who..”

I didn’t even finish before Clark saw something and zoomed out leaving me alone. I snorted Men.

(Clark POV)

I followed the red blur all the way to a basketball court in the center of Metropolis. I stopped to look around the players but I didn’t see anyone. Then I heard a whistle and turned my head and there he was. I super sped across the court and reached out to grab him but he disappeared. What the hell? I turned around and came face to face with Bart Allen.

“Still too slow, stretch.”

I smiled.

“Bart.”

He grinned saluted me and then disappeared. Okay, I was definitely confused. Why didn’t he stick around? I tried to find him for a while before I gave up and super sped back to The Planet but Chloe wasn’t there. I went home and walked in to find Lois in the kitchen. I looked up and groaned.

“Don’t you ever go home Lois? I mean what’s the point of having your own place if you’re never there?”

She took her head out of the refrigerator and turned to face me. She gave me a sarcastic smile.

“Aw, Clarkie…are you implying I should move in?

I gave her a horrified look.

“Absolutely not. There’s no room for you here.”

I went over to the refrigerator and grabbed the milk. I went to drink it when Lois bumped into me.

“Use a glass Smallville…that’s gross other people drink that.”

I glared at her.

“Where’s my girlfriend?”

She faced me and smirked.

“You mean my cousin? She has a name you know….she’s in the shower.”

I concentrated and sure enough I could hear the water pelting down on something. I grabbed a glass and poured some milk into it. I sat at the counter and looked at the clock. Twelve thirty. I glanced back at Lois and took a sip of my drink.

“You never did answer me. What are you doing here this late? Is everything ok?”

She faced me and shrugged.

“Everything’s ok. I needed to talk to Chloe about something…that’s why I’m here.”

I looked closer at Lois and she seemed upset. I decided against busting her chops it wasn’t as much fun when something else was already wrong. We were sitting there quietly when I heard the steps creaking. Chloe bounced down a second later. She looked up startled when she saw me then smiled.

“Hey you’re back.”

I nodded and held out an arm for her to come over to me. She did gave me a kiss and then sat on one of my legs and faced Lois.

"Gross Chloe...must you and Smallville be so public

Chloe ignored her but I made a face.

“So what’s up Lo? Everything ok?”

Lois looked at me and then back at Chloe. I got the hint. I rolled my eyes lifted Chloe up and deposited her back on the chair when I was standing.

“You guys have your little female talk. I’m exhausted I’m going to bed.”

I leaned down kissed Chloe’s forehead and patted her stomach before going up stairs and crashing on my bed. Chloe could have been seriously hurt tonight. That’s the second time I wasn’t there to protect them. Thank god for Bart if he hadn’t have been there Chloe and the baby might be….The next time I see him I’m gonna have to thank him. The last thought I had before drifting off was Hopefully he’d make another appearance soon…

(Chloe POV)

It was early in the morning and Clark had already gone downstairs to start his chores. I was going through the closet looking for something to wear. Damn-it! None of my nice jeans fit anymore. Even my skirts are to tight unless they’re elastic. I stomped my foot and took a deep breath. I grabbed a dark green cotton shirt off the hanger and put it on. I slipped on black yoga pants and threw on green flip-flops. I went downstairs to find Clark. I yawned. I was still so tired. Lois was here until around two last night. She was upset about Oliver bailing on her again. If he only told her why he kept bailing I’m almost positive she wouldn’t harp on it. Oh well it’s really not my decision though. When I couldn’t find Clark in the house I walked out to the barn.

“Clark?”

“Up here Chloe.”

I walked up the loft stairs and paused at the top. Clark looked over and frowned.

“You ok? You’re breathing’s kind of quick.”

I laughed.

“There are a lot of stairs.”

I finished the trek up there and gave him a kiss.

“So I never got to ask you what happened last night because Lois was around…did you find out who it was?”

He shook his head no and I did a double take.

“Wait, wait…you’re saying he got away from you? I thought you were the fastest man alive.”

He started walking back down the stairs and I followed hot on his heels.

“Whoever he was, he saved your life, which is more than I can say.”

I rolled my eyes. Him and his guilt trips.

“Oh, come on, Clark. It wasn't your fault. Even with all your powers, you can't be everywhere at once.”

He turned and looked at me with a haunted look in his eyes.

“I have to be. I'm the only one who can round up the prisoners from the Phantom Zone and stop Lex from experimenting on people with abilities. Did you get a chance to find anything out about 33.1 from Casselli before he pulled the gun on you?”

I shook my head.

“Nothing, and I'm not going to. Apparently Casselli was in and out of prison before the ink could dry on his fingerprints.”

That’s what money does…Clark looked confused

“How'd he get out so fast?”

I shrugged.

“I don't know, but a Luthorcorp lawyer paid Casselli a visit right before his release.”

His eyes became dark with anger and his body tensed.

“Lex.”

I nodded.

“Casselli could be stashed halfway around the world by now.”

He sat on a pile of hay bales and shook his head.

“I'll get in touch with Lionel. Maybe he can tell us something.”

I walked over into Clark’s arms and kissed his neck. When I looked at him I saw a small grin on his face but it disappeared at my next words.

“I'll keep sifting through my Luthorcorp intel. Maybe we'll get lucky, and I'll come up with a few bread crumbs.”

He moved me away from him a little and rubbed his neck.

“Chloe I really wish you’d…”

He stopped and his attention was directed behind me. I turned and there was a kid standing behind us not too much younger then we are. I gave him a weird look. He looked familiar.

He grinned and sidled up closer to me

“Hey, gorgeous. What's up? You miss me?”

I raised a brow but had to smile a bit at his blatant flirting. But I guess he could see the confusion on my face because he clarified. His grin widened.

“I'm Bart Allen. We had a moment on the town last time I was here.”

Clark cleared his throat. And looked back and forth between us. He was still looking at Bart but his words addressed me.

“Two years ago, before you had a boyfriend.”

I beamed. Clark was jealous! That has got to be the cutest thing I’ve seen in forever…It’s most definitely an ego booster. I thought about it and then it struck me. I met him at the Talon. I turned around to face him fully.

“Oh! Right! Wow. It's good to see you again, Bart.”

He smiled, took my hand and kissed it.

“The pleasure's all mine, senorita.”

I chuckled and looked at Clark who didn’t look happy. I rolled my eyes. I glanced at my watch it was getting late and I had stuff to go do.

“Well boys it’s been fun but I gotta go.”

Clark moved to me and caught my arm.

“When you coming back?”

I shrugged.

“I’ll be home later and before you say it I know…relax I’ll steer clear of the devil for the time being.”

I grinned and faced Bart.

“I'll see you around.”

And I walked out of the barn leaving them to their devices while I went to The Planet for a few hours before my lunch with Lana.

(Clark POV)

Bart watched Chloe walking away and it made me want to slap him in the head.

“Mui caliente.”

Ok that’s enough…

“Knock it off.”

He looked over at me and smiled.

“Why man? She’s even hotter than the last time I saw her.”

I glared.

“Because she has a boyfriend.”

He shrugged.

“What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him.”

My arms were crossed across my chest.

“He already knows…and he doesn’t appreciate you checking her out like she’s a piece of meat.”

Bart looked over at me confused…then realization dawned on him.

“Oh man…”

He clutched at his heart and faked stumbling.

“How could you do that to me?”

I shook my head and smiled at his antics.

“Enough about Chloe…What's with the Spanish?”

He smirked.

“Well, I just grabbed lunch down in Mexico, man. They got this burrito down there -- el intestine-o buster. You got to take a run down there with me to try one.”

I sighed. I really didn’t need any more trouble blowing through town especially something I couldn’t quite catch. I had enough going on.

“What are you doing here, Bart?”

He smiled deviously at me.

“I'm hanging out with my amigo, man. What's it look like?”

My hands were still across my chest when I spoke.

“That's what I'm trying to find out. Last time you blew through town, you stole my dad's wallet then swiped a priceless artifact from Lex. You nearly got yourself killed.”

He chuckled and he moved from foot to foot.

“Yeah. Yeah, those were the days, huh? Yeah, all right. Look, man, I already told you, things are different now, okay? I mean, back then, I needed a super-kick in the butt, and you laid it on me, and ever since then, there's been no more stealing for this gringo, I swear.”

I raised an eyebrow and gave him a disbelieving look.

“Am I really supposed to just buy that?”

His smile lessened but he laughed it off.

“Well, I could squirt out some tears if that'll help.”

I shook my head. Everything is always a joke to him.

“No, but the truth might. What were you doing at the Daily Planet?”

Not that I wasn’t thankful because believe me I was. But if there was going to be more trouble in town I preferred to know sooner then later.

This time he smirked at me.

“I saw Chloe-licious had a byline a while back. And I was in town on business, figured I ought to check it out.”

Chloe-licious? Bart is one of the only other people in the world who can super speed like me…I’d hate to have to kill him…but if he didn’t knock it off… I got back to the topic at hand.

“What kind of business?”

He rolled his eyes.

“I'm a courier. I pick things up. I drop them off. Lickety-split. Don't have a fit.”

I gave him a skeptical look and he looked hurt. He pulled his bag higher up on his shoulder and got a bit defensive but with less heart then I remember.

“All right look, man, whatever. You don't trust me, that's fine. Okay, I'll be gone before you can even blink.”

I remembered him saying that to me last time and I smiled. I appeared in front of him as he started to walk away.

“I don't know. I can still blink pretty fast…”

He grinned and my smile got bigger.

“Mexico, huh? Want to go get that burrito?”

“Excelente.”

And we took off.

(Lois POV)

Oliver and I stumble into his apartment making out and laughing. We had just gone out to lunch and had a little bit too much to drink. I tripped and Oliver grabbed me and started kissing me again.

“Whoa!..”

I grinned lazily at him.

“Now, that is what I call a three-martini lunch.”

Oliver chuckled and moved slightly to point at his wet shirt.

“It was a four-martini lunch if you include the one that you spilled on my shirt.”

I looked him in the eye and gave him a sexy smile. I eyed him innocently.

“Right. Well, how am I ever going to make it up to you?”

He played along and pretended to think about it.

“I don't know. Because, uh... it's my favorite shirt.”

I leaned in and lightly brushed my lips against his. My voice came out low and husky.

“Well, then, I think we should get it into the laundry so that it doesn't stain”

He nodded and lowered his voice also.

“Yeah. That's a good idea.”

He grabbed me and I practically ripped the shirt off as he was kissing me. He moved to my neck and started sucking on it. Oh my god… I closed my eyes and his lips found mine again.

Right when his hands moved to the waist of my pants his cell phone started to go off and he abruptly halted. I felt him sigh against my lips and move back.

“I gotta take this.”

I calmed myself and nodded him off. I listened to his conversation and wondered who he was talking to. This is really starting to piss me off. I love Oliver…but he is constantly running off on me and I have no clue what to think about that. What kind of guy is always running off on his girl when things are just getting good? I’ll tell you what kind…the kind who isn’t as invested in the relationship as his…partner. I heard his voice and listened more closely.

“Go ahead.”

He paused before speaking again.

“Give me five minutes.”

He hung up and turned to face me. He looked apologetic but I wasn’t letting this one go without saying something.

“I, uh...”

I walked to him with purpose.

“You know, what I had in mind is gonna take a little longer than five minutes.”

His eyes sparked but then died down a second later.

“Rain check?”

I nodded. But my voice held the impatience I felt.

“Sure. I'll just put it next to the rest of the umbrellas you keep handing me.”

He sighed.

“Lois –“

I interrupted him.

“I mean, is it just me or is this relationship all interruptus and no coitus? You're always running off just when things start getting interesting,”

I walked over to him and lowered my voice as I brushed a hand up his arm.

“and I like being interested -- a lot.”

He looked like I was physically hurting him and I smiled to myself.

“Yeah. I know. You're right. It's, uh... it's not fair to you. I think we should take a break.”

I moved away from him like he slapped me but held my voice strong.

“You mean like, what... see other people?”

He looked at me startled and raised a brow.

“Uh, well, okay. Yeah, I mean, if that's what you want. I was actually thinking more along the lines of taking a vacation... together.”

My heart went back to normal and I smiled.

“Really?”

He grinned and I walked back over to him.

“Yeah, really.”

He put his arms around me.
“No rushing out in the middle of the good stuff?”

He shook his head and held on tighter. God he was wonderful. Hot to just the way I like ‘em.

“No. None. It'll be you, me, and... Monte Carlo?”

Wow…Monte Carlo…nice. Perfect place for Ollie and I to…

“Hmm.”

He lifted up his phone and motioned to it.

“There's just a few things that I do need to take care of before we go, and I think once we get –“

I cut him off by grabbing him and pressing my lips to his in a passionate kiss. When I backed off his eyes were still closed and he groaned.

“God, you're good at that.”

I laughed.

“I’m gonna get going….start packing.”

“Okay.”

I kissed him once more before I floated out of the apartment yelling over my shoulder.

“Bye.”

(Lex POV)

I was going through some papers on my desk when my father waltzed into my study. Wonderful

He rushed over to me and looked around. What is that fool looking for?

“I need to talk to you. You alone?”

I stopped rummaging and leaned back in my chair with my hands clasped together.

“Just me and my shadow, dad. Lana left to meet Chloe for lunch and discuss wedding plans.”

He gave me a dirty look and his voice was reprimanding. I despised when he took that tone of voice with me. Like I was still a child who was under his thumb and didn’t know any better.

“That's good too bad she's not out of the country considering what's happening.”

I tempered my voice but couldn’t help feeling agitated with him.

“Look, if this is about Dr. Casselli –“

He cut me off and his voice held irritation when he spoke to me.

“Casselli? Please Lex…He's the least of our worries. Another Luthorcorp Facility has been hit. That's six. Each one of them has some connection with 33.1.”

Ah that’s what he was going on about. 33.1. See what he doesn’t realize is that 33.1 is only a distraction for what I’m really working on. Or what one would call a building block to the final stage of my “project.” The information that was being stolen was only data of the beings in the facility not on the reason they are. I leaned forward and then got up. I grabbed a glass and poured myself some scotch.

“The only thing housed in those facilities was peripheral research.”

He waved me away and looked at me with disbelieving eyes.

“Oh, please Lex.”

It was the truth…to an extent. I would never go 50/50 on a project with my father and disclose all my secrets…He of all people should know that. The lessons came from him.

“All the vital data is still secure in the mainframe.”

He chuckled condescendingly at me.

“And how long do you think before that location is compromised? If it ever became public that Luthorcorp is experimenting on people with abilities –“

I cut him off and grabbed a paper from my desk.

“It won't.”

I handed him the paper.

“What's this?”

I smiled at him. That’s right dad. I knew who was breaking in and out of these facilities and I was going to catch him. Always one step ahead.

“A single frame pulled off a security camera from one of the break-ins. Whoever is responsible has the ability to move faster than a speeding bullet. Such a unique individual would make an interesting test subject to add to 33.1, don't you think?”

I knew the exact minute my father faltered because I could read his expression clearly. He knew who it was…and he was nervous..for a brief second I saw his indifferent mask shatter and I knew my assumptions had been correct on who was in that picture.

By the time he spoke his voice was even and his face showed nothing of the slip he made a few seconds before.

“What do you plan to do?”

My lips curved back and I tilted my head to the side.

“Protect our investment. Come on. I'll walk you out.”

And walk him out I did all the way to the front door and watched him leave in his limo. I grinned
You can only cover for him for so long dad…when I’m done with them though…the only thing that will be left to protect is yourself.

(Chloe POV)

I sat at an outdoor table at the restaurant waiting for Lana. I sipped my water and heard her voice. She plopped down across from me.

“I’m sorry I'm late Chloe. Today’s been crazy. Anyway tell me all about how your doctor’s appointment went. I called last week but you guys must have been busy.”

I laughed. Lana was my gossip buddy. I love Lois to pieces but you’d never find her doing any kind of girly gossiping unless it involved a story. Lana was the opposite. We’ve had many girly conversations over the years. And this was no different to her. It made me smile to know that some things would never change.

“Yea I’m sorry I didn’t get a chance to call you back it was there was a lot going on last week.”

She nodded and waved me off.

“Don’t even worry about it.”

The waiter came over and Lana ordered herself something to drink. While she was talking to the waiter her hand lifted and I saw something glint on her finger. Holy crap! She said yes. Ok if I was honest with myself I knew she would but thinking it and seeing it…two very different things. I took a sip of water and spoke.

“Umm it looks like we both have a bit of news to share.”

I pointedly glanced down at her hand and she actually blushed.

“Yea…about that…I’m sorry I didn’t call you right away when it happened. I mean we were together that night but with Linda Lake and everything...plus I know how you feel about Lex and I was looking for a good way to tell you.”

I nodded and sipped more water. So they’ve been engaged for a little over two weeks now…I’m surprised it hasn’t hit the front page yet. I had a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach and I was kind of hoping it was indigestion from the bagel with cream cheese and olives I had earlier. I gave Lana a weak smile. I was going to try and be supportive because again I still didn’t have any hard evidence against Lex and now that Lana is pregnant with his child and engaged to him she would probably write me off in a minute if I tried to destroy the family that’s she’s always wanted.

“If you’re happy Lana…then I’m happy for you. I hope Lex is good to you.”

Her smile lessened at the comment but she obviously didn’t want to fight because she changed the subject and gave me a warm smile.

“So Chloe…Will there be a little girl Kent running around the farm chasing butterflies or a boy Kent bucking hale bays with his dad?”

I stopped what I was doing. That was the first time I had ever heard any call the baby a Kent before. I mean obviously they still think the baby’s Clarks but I just didn’t realize what that meant. I shook the thoughts away and grinned at Lana.

“We’re having a…”

I paused for dramatic effect and she leaned closer to me with anticipation. My grin grew wider.

“…baby boy.”

Lana’s eyes went wide and she moved a seat over and hugged me.

“Oh my god Chloe that’s amazing! Congratulations! I can’t wait to find out what I’m having.”

She smiled and put her hand on my stomach.

“Hey there baby boy Kent…I’m your aunt Lana.”

I spoke softly but firm.

“Jonathan.”

She looked up confused.

“What?”

“Jonathan…the baby’s name is going to be Jonathan Michael.”

Lana gave me a sad smile.

“Have you told Clark?”

I shook my head.

“No. I want it to be a surprise. We haven’t talked about names yet.”

She nodded and continued rubbing my stomach.

She was so engrossed in talking to the small bulge of my stomach that she didn’t notice the bitter smile I gave her.

Lana is a great person. She has a heart of gold…really. But everyone has a dark side…a side that they’re not so proud of…a side that hurts the people they care about for selfish or dangerous reasons. This side was different with each person. In Clark it was Kal…in me it might end up being the Meteor infected side of my DNA…in Lex it was the part of him that hungered for power, and in Lana it was a rage that sat dormant…a side of her that I saw coming out more and more now that she was with Lex. I never thought of Lana as naïve…but I never saw her as devious either.

But lately things have been slipping from her and ever since the Linda Lake incident she seems to be more determined then ever to find out Clarks secret. She’s been helping Lex more and more with his “projects”…defending his actions with a vengeance, and I was truly afraid that one day in the near future Lana was going to embrace Lex’s nature and my son and I would become her next experiment.

I still have hope that maybe Clark and I can talk some sense into her…because now I see what he was talking about. If we let her marry Lex it really will be the end and I loved Lana too much to lose her.
I looked at Lana and really prayed that Jonathan got to see this side of her…because my son deserved his aunt Lana.

__________________
The Bible is so powerful. It's not to be left on your shelf. It's to outline even the simplest scriptures that can mean so much in building yourself up.

"I am God's workmanship." (Ephesians 2:10)

"I have been redeemed and forgiven." (Colossians 1:14)

"I am the salt and the light of the earth." (Matthew 5:13-14)

David Harvey
Morrisville, NC
davidharvey25@nc.rr.com
Posted:  05 Dec 2007 05:22
Here's Chapter 7 - Part B

Quote:
Chapter 7 Part B

(Clark POV)

I walked into Lionel’s office and he was putting his jacket on. He looked up and gave me a small smile. His voice was hesitant.

“Clark. I was, uh, just thinking about you. I’m heading out to lunch would you like to come?”

I shook my head no and walked closer to him. 

“You've got a funny way of showing it. I've left you half a dozen messages.”

He sighed and his forehead creased as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. Something was wrong…I wasn’t sure if I should ask if he was ok or not…I mean it’s Lionel… but he did make sure Chloe was well taken care of and he has been helping my mom out…and even though I didn’t want to admit it he’s been helping me to. He looked back at me and his voice was stressed.

“I'm sorry. I've been preoccupied.”

I spoke in a tone that I meant to come out accusingly and yet it didn’t. It came out more inquisitive then offensive.

“Helping that doctor from Belle Reeve get out of jail?”

He chuckled and then shook his head.

“Clark, my involvement with Belle Reeve is past history. But it appears that you still have a very active interest in breaking into Luthorcorp.”

I raised my eyebrow in confusion as he walked over to his desk grabbed a piece of paper and handed it to me. I looked closely at it and my eyes expanded a bit.

“Where was this taken?”

His voice was reprimanding and I almost rolled my eyes.

“Mexico -- the Luthorcorp processing plant. If you're going to continue playing games like this, you should be more careful.”

I looked startled. I looked at the time stamped on the surveillance photo and it was from this morning.

“This isn't me. It says here this was taken this morning. I was with Chloe this morning.”

He looked thoughtful.

“No? Hmm…I wonder who it could be then. Hopefully there aren’t anymore Kryptonian visitors in town…that would be unpleasant. Listen Clark…”

I looked up at him and he continued.

“In the next few weeks I’m going to be passing along some information that you and Miss Sullivan have been after for quite some time…Until then if you could possibly lay low on illegally obtaining such information it would make my job a lot easier. ”

I gave him a curious look and then it dawned on me…He new about 33.1. My eyes grew wider.

“You know about 33.1 don’t you…and you didn’t say anything to me about it?”

I was angry and Lionel tried to calm me down.

“Clark…what would you have done? Lex believes I am working on this project with him. Once I have the documents in my hands I will find a way to get them to you. If I was really trying to betray you what would I gain from telling you this?”

He was right and this might make things easier for me and it also meant Chloe would no longer have to look into this, which was a huge weight off my shoulders. I hated putting her in unnecessary danger.

In regards to the photo I knew exactly who it was. It was Bart. It made perfect sense. When he came to the Barn this morning he had said he’d been in Mexico. Hell he took me back there to get a Burrito. I knew he was up to no good…but Lex again…I didn’t think so. This was a little up scale for Bart…not just petty thievery. I was gonna have to look into this.
Lionel’s voice broke my thought processes.

“I’m sorry…what’d you say?”

He laughed and walked over to me. He patted my shoulder.

“I asked you how Miss Sullivan was doing. She’s feeling better then the last time I saw her I hope?”

I smiled and followed him out of his office. We got into the elevator and headed down.

“Yea she’s doing good. She’s been getting the strangest cravings though. The other night she had me run to Italy for authentic Italian food.”

I shook my head and Lionel’s chuckle was good-natured. The elevator dinged and we got out.

“It will get worse mark my words. Women who are carrying the next generation inside of them have a free pass to procure anything and everything they want from you...”

He shook his head and his smile seemed like he was remembering a memory from his past.

“And you’ll give into them every time willingly because of what they represent to you.”

I looked at Lionel and for the first time I saw what my mother must have been seeing all along. I might not like him all that much and I hated him hanging all over my mother. I most certainly did not in any way consider him a father figure or replacement for my father because Jonathan Kent was out of this man’s league…my father was…an extraordinary man. But Lionel’s friendship, and I use the term loosely, has been a great help to me and my family. For once I think I can actually say I’m glad he knows my secret. I cleared my throat and glanced at Lionel.

“If the offer still stands I’d like to um…come grab…lunch with you.”

He looked surprised but nodded his head.

“Absolutely Clark…no man likes to dine alone.”

We left the building and I awkwardly got into the car with Lionel. A few seconds later we took off for lunch and the last thought on my mind was wait till I tell Chloe about this…she’s gonna flip.

(Chloe POV)

I opened the door and walked into the kitchen. When I looked up the kitchen was full of empty dishes and Mrs. Kent was standing in the middle of the kitchen staring at Bart. I heard him speak his voice muffled with food.

“God, Mrs. K, thank you so much. This was so good.”

She just shook her head.

“Where do you put it all? You eat more than Clark, and he's twice your size.”

I saw him shrug.

“Yeah, well, you know, I burn a lot of calories.”

“What in the world happened here?”

Mrs. Kent looked over at me startled. Bart turned around and grinned.

“Chloe-licious…what are you doing here gorgeous? Looking for that beefcake of a boyfriend?”

He waggled his eyebrows at me and I laughed. Mrs. Kent shook her head.

“Behave yourself Bart.”

He grinned and then looked me over and I saw his facial expression change. He was looking at my stomach, apparently he didn’t get a god view of it this morning. I wasn’t anywhere near huge but my stomach was no longer flat either. It looked like a little potbelly but a tad larger and a smidge rounder. He glanced back up at me.

“Are you…”

I looked at him and waited for him to finish his sentence. When he didn’t I did it for him.

“Pregnant?”

He nodded.

“Yes. Does that mean your going to stop hitting on me?”

I said it playfully and he grinned slyly.

“Not a chance. While I’m in town stretch is gonna have some competition.”

I laughed. Wait till Clark hears that…he’s just gonna love it.

Mrs. Kent sighed and then smiled.

“Are you hungry Chloe?”

“Nope. I just got back from lunch with Lana. We ate half the menu it was literally disgusting.”

She laughed but I was serious. I had to pee…again. This was like the fifth time in the last two hours. I groaned and walked out of the kitchen.

(Clark POV)

I walked into the house from the front where Lionel dropped me off and I could here my mom talking to someone.

“Well, there's plenty more in the fridge. I have to run to a meeting. Would you mind cleaning up?”

It was Bart. I glanced over and saw him super speed around the kitchen and clean everything up.

My mom turned around and was astonished. Bart grinned at her while he was still cleaning out a glass.

“Yeah, anything for you, Mrs. K.”

I saw her smile warmly at him.

“It's nice to have you here, Bart. I hope you stay longer this time.”

He smiled and she left. I walked into the kitchen and Bart looked up.

“Hey, what's up, man? You just missed a killer spread.”

He was acting like he hadn’t lied to my face this morning. I shook me head.

“You can cut the act. I know about Luthorcorp and the break-ins by somebody who's as fast as me.”

He looked away from me and his smile was gone.

“Yeah. Faster, actually.”

I frowned at him.

“You know what's funny? I actually believed your story about how I changed your life.”

He looked back at me and the look on his face was almost pleading.

“Look, it's not a story, Clark, okay? Really, I'm not the same guy.”

I was having a hard time believing him. I had proof that showed me otherwise.

“You stole from Lex before. You're stealing from him again. What's the difference?”

He was starting to get frustrated and he picked up his hands and shook them.

“It's just -- ugh! -- It's complicated.”

I glared at him.

“I'm a smart guy. Explain it to me.”

He shook his head and looked down. His voice was soft.

“I can't.”

I spoke louder because he was making me mad. Why wouldn’t he just tell me what was going on?

“Why not? I thought we were amigos.”

He looked up hurt that I was insinuating we weren’t friends.

“We are.”

I stood my ground. I needed to know what was going on.

“Then tell me why you're stealing from Luthorcorp.”

He hesitated and then shut his mouth for a couple more minutes before he broke the silence.

“I just... I can't.”

I glanced over at his backpack and then back at him. My arms were crossed over my chest and I uncrossed them. I spoke with a stern look on my face.

“I'll find out for myself, then.”

I walked over to his backpack and right before I grabbed it Bart speed around me and appeared in front of me wearing it. He looked upset and irritated at the same time.

“Look, I'm sorry I can't tell you all my secrets, Clark. Okay? I thought a guy like you would understand.”

He took off out the front door leaving me feeling like a jerk. He was right…I was being a hypocrite. I kept secrets from almost everyone I know and yet I expected everyone I came in contact with to be honest to me…


(Chloe POV)

I came out of the bathroom at the end of an argument. I heard yelling so I rushed and when I finally made it out Clark was standing by the kitchen table alone looking out the front door.

“Penny for your thoughts?”

He turned to me and gave a small smile, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Your home…how’s your day goin' so far?”

I nodded and walked over to him. He leaned down and kissed me.

“Looks like it’s goin’ better then yours.”

I motioned to the open front door.

“What happened?”

He shrugged and sat on one of the chairs.

“Bart and I got into a fight.”

I walked over to him and leaned my head on his shoulder.

“I kind of got that.”

He pulled me to him so I was standing between his legs. I could feel his grin against my hair.

“By the way. Lionel say’s hello and he hopes your feeling better.”

I moved back so I was facing him but not out of his arms.

“When did you talk to Lionel?”

“He Dropped me off here. I went to his office earlier to ask why he hasn’t been returning my phones calls and he invited me to lunch. Oh and apparently he has been working with Lex on 33.1 but he said as soon as he gets copies of the documents he’ll send them over to us. Which means no more snooping around sources to find out what’s going on with 33.1”

I was staring at him utterly speechless. Did he just say he had lunch with Lionel?

“I’m sorry back up there for a minute. You had lunch with Lionel?”

He chuckled and playfully pinched me.

“Is that all you heard?”

“No…but that’s the strangest part…and I seem to be attracted to strange sooo.”

He nodded and smiled.

“Mmm”

He started kissing me and I smiled. He stopped after a couple of minutes and got serious.

“I need a favor.”

I smiled.

“Name it.”

He sighed.

“The guy who saved you at the planet -- he didn't exactly get away. It's Bart.”

Oh my god what? I can’t believe he didn’t tell me…oh yes I can and I know why he didn’t to. He was protecting Bart.

“What? Wait a minute. Bart can super speed, too?”

He nodded.

“He's actually a lot faster than I am. That's the truth. I'm sorry I didn't tell you.”

I shook my head and waved him off.

“It's fine. You were protecting him. It's okay. I mean, if anyone gets it, it's me. But why are you outing him now?”

Clark got up and started pacing.

“I think he's headed for trouble, and I need to find him. When I went to Lionel’s office earlier he had a photograph of someone breaking into a Luthorcorp plant. Someone with super speed and it wasn’t me. You think you Can GPS his cell phone for me?”

I grinned. That’s my man coming to me for some quality hacking.

“Yeah, I can try. Do you have his number? Oh can you grab my laptop from upstairs?”

He was gone and back in seconds and my laptop was open on the counter. I grinned and walked over to it.

“Best boyfriend ever…”

He smiled and leaned over my shoulder.

“I think Lex is on to him. If he tries to break into another facility...”

I shook my head.

“No good. His phone must be off.”

He sighed.

“What about call history? Can you pull up a record?”

I grinned. Finally something fun to do.

“Legally? Absolutely not.”

I typed the number in and pulled up the record. There was a Metropolis number that kept repeating. Hmm whose Bart been talking to?

“There's over a dozen calls to that number in the last 24 hours.”

“Let's see who's on the other end.”

I looked up the number we found and it belonged to a business. Clark sounded confused when he spoke.

“Artemis Global Consortium? Never heard of them.”

“It's as subsidiary of J.L. International, which is a satellite company currently orbiting... Queen Industries?”

I looked up at Clark. He shook his head and his face-hardened.

“It's Oliver. He's using Bart to attack Luthorcorp.”

He moved around me and I stood up.

“Where are we going?”

He stopped and turned to me