Fic: First Time For Everything (Part 3)
Part 1
Part 2
Christmas Eve and Bruce was trying to decide if it was too late to call the whole thing off. He had no idea what possessed him to invite company for Christmas. Company he barely even knew. Or liked.
When he started this whole crusade against crime in Gotham, he never expected it would lead to spending Christmas with Superman. It was only slightly less ridiculous than spending it with Santa Claus. Until a few weeks ago, Superman was barely a person to him. Bruce had seen him as most of the world did, a force that existed on Earth. Not an actual person who went to work, took showers, got lonely and liked cherry vanilla ice cream. Not someone who grew up on a farm and was mourning his parents. Not someone who could possibly understand Bruce, or have anything in common with him.
"This is crazy," Bruce said aloud.
"Forgive me for saying it, sir," Alfred commented, "But I would consider having company for Christmas to be the least crazy thing you've done in awhile."
Bruce grunted from where he was leaning against the kitchen counter. Alfred was methodically cutting slits into chestnuts for roasting.
"Personally sir, I think it's good to see you making friends,"
"I have friends," Bruce protested.
"I meant that aren't in your employ, sir."
"You know, Alfred, I don't have to keep you in my employ," Bruce threatened.
"Hardly, sir. Where would you find another butler who would put up with all this nonsense?" Alfred winked at him, "Besides, without me you'd starve to death in a week."
Bruce looked at the floor, unsuccessfully trying to hide his grin.
"There you are, sir," Alfred said brightly, "It is Christmas, after all. It would do you good to take a holiday from the gloom."
The rich chimes of the doorbell echoed through the manor.
"Shit. He's here. Alfred, he's here. Tell him...I had to leave town. Apologize."
"Not this time, Sir," Alfred said as he wiped his hands and exited the kitchen, "Besides, I'm quite certain he can hear you."
Shit.
Well, Bruce couldn't hide in the kitchen. He went to the living room, passing what had to be the largest Christmas tree yet. Should he be standing? Sitting? By the fire? Reading? What was wrong with him?
Too late.
"Master Bruce, Mr. Kent has arrived."
Bruce stood in the middle of the room and stared at his guest. It wasn't Clark Kent or Superman. It was an entirely new version of the man.
"Kal," he said, a little more breathless than he wanted to sound, "Welcome to Wayne Manor."
"It's...big," Kal said, looking around. He wasn't wearing the glasses, and his hair fell in his face. He was casually dressed in jeans and a navy blue sweater that made his eyes look even more blue, if that was possible. Unlike the oversized suits he wore as Clark, these clothes didn't hide the man's perfect physique.
Superman shops for clothes.
"How old is this place?" Kal asked, when Bruce didn't say anything.
"How old?" Superman is in my living room.
"The manor," Kal was eyeing Bruce strangely, "How old is it?"
Bruce snapped back to reality. "Technically it's almost two years old. But it's more or less an exact replica of the manor that stood here for over two hundred years until it burned to the ground."
"Burned? How did that happen?"
Bruce didn't want to get into it. "Bad party guest."
Both men stood in silence, keeping a considerable distance between them. It was more awkward than Bruce even feared. He wasn't really good at hanging out. This would be much easier if he could just slip into Brucie mode.
Alfred finally broke the silence when he entered the room.
"Mr. Kent, you'll find your belongings in the second room to the left of the main staircase. Might I offer you something to drink?"
"Uh...sure. Some juice, maybe? I mean, I can get it myself."
"Not at all, sir. Will grapefruit be acceptable?"
"Yeah. That's fine. Uh, thank-you, Mr. ..."
"Alfred, sir. Just Alfred," then Alfred grinned at Bruce before exiting the room, "Another health nut. I can tell it's going to be a wild time at the manor tonight."
"I could never get used to that," Kal said to Bruce.
"To what? Sarcasm?"
"No. To having a butler. Don't you ever feel bad that he has to do all that stuff for you?"
"No, I don't," Bruce said, adding, "And neither does he. It's complicated."
Kal just nodded and turned his attention to the tree. "You weren't lying about the tree," he observed, "It's huge."
"Yes, well, it would be tragic to let Christmas pass without hauling a giant plant into the living room for a few days."
"Did Alfred decorate it?"
"I assume. It certainly wasn't me."
Alfred returned with Kal's juice, and the promise of roasted chestnuts in a few minutes before retreating to the kitchen.
"Chestnuts," Kal said, after a minute of silence.
"Yes," Bruce said blankly. He watched Kal take a sip of juice and wondered if he shouldn't get a drink of his own, just so he'd also have something to do. Kal looked just as uncomfortable as he did.
"Look, Bruce," Kal said finally, "I just want to say that I really appreciate this. Since my mother died, I've been...well, it would have been hard. Spending Christmas alone. So, thank-you."
"It's...not a problem," Bruce said, struggling a little to find the right words. He wasn't used to being thanked. "I'm sorry it's not as...cozy...as the Christmases you remember in Kansas. To be honest, I've forgotten what people actually do on Christmas Eve."
Clark smiled and took a few steps toward Bruce so they weren't projecting across a room.
"People just get together with friends and enjoy each other's company," Kal said.
"With friends?"
"Yeah. Friends," Kal repeated, "And there is usually food involved too. And then you spend the whole night trying to sleep, but you can't."
Well, at least Bruce was familiar with that last part.
Silence filled the room again. Kal finished his juice with a giant gulp, then started fidgeting with the glass. Bruce wondered if the fire needed tending. It didn't. Dammit.
"This is ridiculous, isn't it?" Kal asked suddenly.
"What part?"
"Us! We're so unused to just being ourselves that neither of us can just relax."
Bruce considered this. "You'd be surprised how seldom I'm relaxed."
"Me neither," Kal sighed, "I mean, right now I am listening to a couple arguing in Chicago, and a little girl crying in Arizona because her mother just died. On Christmas Eve."
"You can hear all that?" Bruce was astonished.
"I can hear everything, all the time. I can fade it out, but it's hard. If I do I might miss something."
Years ago, Bruce had taken on the responsibility of watching over Gotham. Every night he watched and listened to his city, protecting the innocent and punishing the guilty. It was exhausting, but he would never consider quitting. Even taking this one night off was difficult for him. He couldn't imagine hearing the pain of the whole world, and feeling obligated to protect everyone. Even with superpowers, the strain would be incredible.
Kal turned his head. "Alfred's taking the chestnuts out of the oven," he said.
Bruce raised an eyebrow. "And what colour underwear is he wearing?"
"What?" Kal actually seemed to be blushing, "I just..."
"It was a joke, Kal."
"Oh."
"Look," Bruce said, suddenly struck by an idea, "Why don't we go to the kitchen. To be honest, I've always hated this room. And we'll save Alfred the walk."
Kal smiled, "Good idea."
*************************
Within an hour the Wayne Manor kitchen was filled with laughter for the first time in nearly two decades.
"Yeah!" Kal exclaimed, "so Luthor had this hallway trap that he wanted me to walk through. I mean, he actually built this thing! And it was so ridiculous. There was one machine that shot fire, and another that froze me in a block of ice. So I walked through it, mostly because I would have felt bad for him if I'd just smashed it. I mean, it was really sad. I was embarrassed for him."
Bruce was actually laughing. Hard. They had been trading stories about the stupidest criminals they had encountered. Kal was definitely winning.
"Did he think he could stop you with that contraption, or did he just want to see you in action?" Bruce asked, smiling.
"I have no idea," Kal shook his head, grinning as he threw another chestnut into his mouth, "That guy is crazy. You wouldn't even believe some of the stuff he's tried."
"Well, Master Bruce, perhaps I can relax somewhat when you go out at night. I had no idea you were facing such complete imbeciles."
Bruce raised his glass of egg nog, "To stupid criminals."
Kal and Alfred both raised their glasses. "To stupid criminals."
"Well, sirs," Alfred said brightly, "As I am not in the superhero profession, I believe I'll enjoy a real drink. It is Christmas, after all."
"You'll find a present for you in the cabinet," Bruce said.
Alfred opened the liquor cabinet and pulled out a tall black bottle.
"Very nice, sir!" he said, examining the label of the vintage port, "Just what I wanted. Are you certain you won't join me?"
Bruce glanced at Kal.
"Oh, no," Kal stammered, "I-I don't usually drink."
"That sounds like Clark Kent talking," Bruce observed, "Can you even get drunk?"
"I don't know. I've never really tried," Kal admitted.
"Oh for pity's sake!" Alfred exclaimed, "I'm pouring three glasses. Two young men and neither of them will allow themselves to enjoy a classic vintage wine on Christmas. Ridiculous."
"Fine," Bruce said, "One glass."
*********************
"Bruce," Kal mock whispered from where he was sitting on the floor, leaning against the refrigerator door, "Bruuuuuuce. Guess what?"
"What?" Bruce asked, grinning lazily and sitting on the floor opposite the Kryptonian.
"I think I can get drunk," Kal giggled.
"I think you drank that third bottle by yourself."
Alfred had gone to bed over an hour ago, after one drink. The two younger men had stayed in the kitchen, talking and drinking and losing track of time.
"What are you thinking about, Bruce?"
"Nothing."
"I'll bet," Kal pointed an accusing finger, "I'll bet you never think about nothing, Bruce. You're thinking about something. You want to ask me something."
"Alright."
"Ask away," Kal said spreading his arms dramatically.
"The woman you love. It's Lois Lane, right?"
Kal rested his head against the fridge, "Loisss. Yeah. It's her. She's married now. Her husband can fly."
"Fly?"
"He's a pilot."
Oh.
"You know what sucks about being a super-powered alien?" Kal asked.
Bruce couldn't really think of anything off the top of his head.
"I loved Lois. I wanted to marry her. But my parents - the Kryptonian ones - said I wasn't allowed to love a human unless I became one of them."
"And how exactly do you become human, Kal?"
Kal made a dismissive motion with his hand. "It doesn't matter. I did it once, so I could be with Lois. Then I had to get my powers back."
Bruce straightened up, "You mean, you gave up your powers so you could..."
"No!" Kal exclaimed, then looked thoughtful, "Well...yeah. So I could have sex."
Bruce leaned forward, "Are you telling me, Kal, that until, what, five or six years ago, you were a virgin?"
Kal bit his lip nervously, "Yes?"
"And that you've only had sex..."
"Once."
"In your life?!"
"Yes."
Bruce leaned back. "Wow."
"It gets better. Lois's son."
No way. "No way."
"He's mine," Kal shook his head, "I had sex once in my life!"
"So Lois must know that you and Clark Kent are..."
"No," Kal interrupted, "She did. But, she doesn't remember."
"Doesn't remember?"
"I had to...make her forget. But I didn't know she was pregnant!"
Bruce decided to ask how exactly Kal could make her forget later.
"So," Bruce asked, stretching out his legs "She doesn't know who the father is?"
"No. She knows. She knows it's Superman's son."
Maybe it was the wine, but this was all very confusing.
"Kal...wow. I don't even know what to say."
"Tell me about it. I guess it's true what they say about sex complicating everything."
"Well, I don't know if your situation is what they're talking about,"
Kal sighed, "I could have handled that better. Then I left. I had no idea she was pregnant. If I'd known that, I..."
"You didn't know, Kal."
The grandfather clock in the hall chimed twelve times.
"Midnight," Kal said, "Merry Christmas, Bruce."
"Sure," Bruce frowned.
"Hey," Kal said brightly, "Let's change the subject."
"To what?"
Kal grinned. "Your love life."
Bruce snorted. "Well, that will be a short conversation."
"I hear Bruce Wayne is quite the lady killer."
"He does alright," Bruce agreed, "But I wouldn't call it a love life."
"Have you ever been in love?"
"No," Bruce answered quickly, "I can't afford that luxury."
"Bruce, I have to ask...you were dancing with Selina Kyle. And you looked pretty comfortable with her. Have you ever..."
"Once or twice."
"But she's Catwoman!"
"It's complicated, Kal."
"Oh, you always say that," Kal's voice became distant "Sleeping with the enemy. I guess there's something intriguing about that. Although I would have to sleep with Luthor, and that is not going to happen."
Bruce laughed, "If you ask me, he'd like it to happen."
"Ugh!" Kal made a face as he threw a chestnut shell at Bruce, "Oh, God. That's a mental picture I'll never get rid of."
"You're welcome."
Bruce wasn't sure why he still wanted to talk about sex with this guy. He decided not to think about it too much.
"So, what your parents said. About giving up your powers. Are you...unable to have sex with your powers?"
Kal cleared his throat, "I-I don't know. I guess it would be risky. I was just doing what they told me. I assume there's a good reason."
"Little old to be asking your parents permission."
"I couldn't live with myself if I lost control and hurt someone," Kal said quietly, staring at the floor.
Bruce stared at him. Kal's hair was mussed. He had removed the sweater some time ago, and was now wearing only a grey t-shirt with the jeans. His face was flushed, probably due to a mix of alcohol and embarrassment. He was absently tracing the pattern in the floor tiles, his long legs crossed in front of him.
Then the Kryptonian lowered himself so he was lying on his side, his face pressed against the tiles. One arm stretched over his head, lifting his t-shirt to expose part of his stomach.
"Mmmm...the floor is nice and cool," he mumbled sleepily.
Bruce was feeling a little warm himself, suddenly.
"Kal?" He started, then stopped himself. He knew he shouldn't let Kal fall asleep on the kitchen floor, but he didn't want to stop looking at him.
Bruce sighed and decided to do the right thing. Eventually.
"Kal," he said again. When he didn't get a response, he reached a hand out and placed it on Kal's shoulder. So warm. He shook him gently. "Kal?"
"Mrmf?"
"We should go to bed. You'll like bed. It's better than the floor, believe me."
"We can't go to bed, Bruce. I'll hurt you. Parents said," he mumbled.
"Er..." Bruce quickly removed his hand. He must have misheard him. Maybe in his sleepy state, Kal thought Bruce was Lois. And maybe he sometimes called Lois 'Bruce.'
"I meant, we should go to sleep now. In our rooms," Bruce emphasized the plural.
"Ohhh...Ok," Kal pushed himself up, still mostly asleep.
Bruce draped Kal's arm over his shoulders as they walked toward the stairs. He was heavy.
"Thank-you, Bruce," Kal mumbled, "Needed this."
"No problem. You need to walk up these stairs."
"Ok." Kal slowly climbed the stairs, dragging his sweater behind him.
Bruce finally got Kal into his room. He resisted tucking him into bed. He wanted to distance himself from him as soon as possible so he could go to his own room and freak out.
He tried not to think about the fact that Superman had basically said that he would like to sleep with him if only his parents would let him. There was so much weird about that, it was best to just forget about it.
As if that was possible.
It wasn't as if Bruce was bothered by the idea of being intimate with a man. He'd known for quite some time that he was open to that sort of thing. Just ask Harvey.
But this was Superman, and this was insane.
Also, wasn't Kal just telling him about his undying love for Lois Lane? And about his son?
Christ.
Bruce got into bed, trying to think about something else. Fresh images of Kal's blinding smile, his golden skin, his sapphire eyes, ran through Bruce's mind. He tried not to notice how turned on he was. God damn. Superman could probably hear erections.
Right. Taking care of himself was not an option. Kal could hear him. Kal could see him, for chrissakes. Just go to sleep, and everything will be normal in the morning.
In the morning. When he'd see Kal again. The man the world knew as Superman, but only Bruce knew as Kal. Kal was only for him. Superman belonged to the world, but Kal was all his.
Bruce gasped as he found his own hand on his cock. He had to stop. Kal was down the hall. He'd know.
Bruce bit his lip, but couldn't stop. He thought about Kal hovering above him, endless golden skin and sculpted muscles. Blue eyes wide, dark lips wet.
He had to stop.
Kal was down the hall. Superman was down the hall. In one of his bedrooms. Was he thinking about Bruce? Was he listening? Was he watching? Was he doing the same thing?
Oh God.
He had to stop.
He stroked harder, biting his hand to muffle any sound, like it mattered. Kal, the beautiful near-virgin who could save the whole world. Who left, but came back to save them all. Who sought Bruce out, hoping Bruce could save him. Kal would save Bruce. The world could have Superman. Bruce would have Kal. Kal wanted to have Bruce.
Harder. Faster. Fuck.
He had to stop.
There was no way he could stop.
He bit his hand hard enough to break the skin. He tasted blood as he came, his eyes clenched shut, seeing nothing but deep blue eyes.
After the last shudders rippled through his body, Bruce lay perfectly still. He held his breath. He strained to hear any signs that the other man had heard him. He had no idea what he was listening for.
Stupid. Weak.
And now he had to clean himself up.
He straightened himself out quickly in the bathroom. He looked at his reflection, his face flushed, his eyes bleary. He quietly returned to his bed, still listening for any noise from down the hall. Total silence.
His head spun as he hit the pillow, unused to having alcohol in his system.
He was losing control of himself, and he couldn't entirely blame the wine. He had to get a grip. He shouldn't have taken this night off. It was shaking him up, making him lose focus. He couldn't afford leisurely conversations and silly crushes. They were not part of his mission.
He shouldn't have had anything to drink. He could be out there now. He had been selfish, convincing himself that he could take a break. Justifying it because it was a meaningless holiday. As if the spirit of Christmas would protect the innocent while Batman got drunk.
Kal was right about Christmas Eve. Bruce couldn't sleep a wink.
*********************
Morning came far too quickly. If Bruce had slept at all, it was brief and he had no memory of it. He gave up on the idea entirely when the clock hit 6 am, throwing off the blankets angrily. He took a scalding hot shower, longer than necessary.
When would Kal be waking up? What were they even supposed to do today?
Bruce needed to get into the cave. He needed to check the news and the scanners from last night. He had to find out what he missed, and what he could have prevented.
He dressed quickly and moved silently to the downstairs library. Alfred should be awake now, but he didn't see or hear any sign of him. He opened the passage to the elevator.
As soon as he entered the cave he felt better. His life made sense again.
What does it say about me that my life only makes sense when I'm alone in an underground laboratory full of bats?
The computers told Bruce that last night had been slow for crime. Nothing significant reported. Nothing reported. He knew that he stopped crimes every night that would have never been called in.
He stayed in the cave for over an hour, working. He fixed some damaged equipment, re-stocked his utility belt. His head hurt and he was thirsty. He went back upstairs to get some water from the kitchen. Alfred was making breakfast.
"Master Bruce! It's a surprise to see you up at this hour," he remarked as he whisked a bowl of eggs.
Bruce winced at the noise of the whisk hitting the sides of the bowl.
"Feeling a bit off this morning, are we sir?" Alfred asked with a knowing smile, "Nothing some hot coffee and a decent breakfast won't fix."
"I'll take water for now," Bruce said as he opened endless cupboard doors, searching for the glasses.
"Third from the right, Sir," Alfred said without looking up, "By the way, Merry Christmas, sir."
Bruce poured himself a glass of water and drained it in one gulp. "Merry Christmas, Alfred."
"Breakfast will be ready shortly, sir."
Bruce remembered that he had Alfred's present in his bedroom.
"I'll be back soon, Alfred. I forgot something upstairs."
Bruce climbed the stairs quietly, trying not to wake Kal. This logic was, of course, stupid.
Bruce was almost past Kal's door when it flew open. Kal stood there, shirtless. His hair was mussed and his feet were bare.
"Morning Bruce," he said sleepily as he rubbed an eye, "Merry Christmas."
Bruce once again found himself speechless and staring.
Kal's eyes focused on the floor and grew wide. "Whoa! Is that breakfast?!"
Bruce snapped out of it. "How are you feeling, Kal?"
"Huh?" Kal asked, confused "Fine. Why?"
"Well..."
"Oh, right. The wine," Kal grinned, "I feel fine. Another superpower, I guess. Ability to get drunk without the nasty side-affects. I hope I didn't say anything embarrassing."
"You don't remember?"
"Oh God," Kal moaned, "What did I say?"
"Nothing," Bruce lied, enjoying the way Kal's sculpted, tanned skin flowed into the waistband of his dark blue pajama pants.
"I don't believe you," Kal said, "But I'm probably better off not knowing the truth."
The good thing was that Kal didn't seem to be aware of what Bruce had gotten up to last night in bed. At least, he wasn't letting on if he did.
"Well..." Kal said, "I should probably get dressed."
"That's not..." Bruce stopped himself before saying 'necessary.'
"Is there a shower I can use behind one of these doors?"
"Yes. I believe you'll find one in..."
"Third door to my left. Found it," Kal said, smiling.
Bruce grimaced. "You certainly get a lot of use out of that x-ray vision."
"Wouldn't you?"
"I would respect the privacy of others."
"What makes you think I don't?" Kal asked, looking hurt.
"Nothing. I don't think that. Forget I said anything," Bruce said quickly. Shut up, Bruce.
"Alright. Well, I'm going to take a shower," Kal said, edging toward the bathroom. Probably just trying to get away from Bruce's creepy staring.
"Kal," Bruce said, just as Kal was entering the bathroom.
"Yes, Bruce?"
"Merry Christmas."
Kal smiled and closed the door. A minute later Bruce heard the water running, and he couldn't honestly say that if he had x-ray vision at that moment that he wouldn't be using it.
Bruce suddenly remembered why he had come upstairs in the first place. He went to his bedroom and retrieved Alfred's present from one of the closets. He knew that Alfred had probably already found it. Bruce still made sure the coast was clear before sneaking it into the living room.
He noticed a couple of other presents were wrapped and under the tree that hadn't been there last night. He was surprised to see one for him from Kal. When had Kal put it there?
Bruce reminded himself that Kal could have actually put it there while he was just talking to him. He would have moved so fast Bruce wouldn't even have noticed. Bruce felt weird again. Superman. Christmas.
Crap. He didn't get Kal anything. Bruce was the worst Christmas host ever.
What do you give Superman? It didn't matter, anyway. It was too late now.
Alfred would know what to do.
Bruce entered the kitchen, frantic.
"Alfred, there's a present for me under the tree from Kal."
"Goodness, sir! That is mysterious! Should we alert the Batman?"
"I'm serious, Alfred. I didn't get him anything."
"Well perhaps you can bake him some cookies, sir," Alfred said, smiling to himself, "Or maybe construct a scrapbook. I hear that's very trendy."
Alfred was not going to be any help. He was now actually laughing at his own joke.
"Oh dear," he chuckled, "I would very much love to see that scrapbook."
"Thanks, Alfred," Bruce said angrily before exiting the kitchen.
"Perhaps you could write him a song," Alfred called after him, still laughing.
When Bruce returned to the living room, Kal was sitting on the couch.
"It's ok, Bruce," Kal said, "You've already given me enough. All I wanted for Christmas was some company."
"You heard that conversation."
Kal shrugged apologetically. He was now wearing a cranberry long-sleeved t-shirt and jeans. His hair fell in his eyes. "I wouldn't say no to a song," he teased.
"You shouldn't have gotten me anything," Bruce said.
"Can't you lighten up a little? It's Christmas."
"I should have been out there last night. Patrolling."
Kal stood. "Bruce, you earned the right to take one night off."
"It doesn't work that way," Bruce said, more angry than he wanted to sound.
"I know," Kal said quietly. He moved right in front of Bruce. "But I think you needed it. I know I did."
"You have no idea what I need," Bruce said darkly, staring directly into Kal's eyes. They were so close. Bruce's hand twitched. He wanted to reach out. He wanted to touch. He could feel the warmth radiating off Kal's body.
"Breakfast is served, sirs!" Alfred announced. Bruce was startled. He hadn't noticed Alfred enter the room.
Kal seemed unfazed. He continued to look directly at Bruce, a slight smirk on his lips. This time Bruce didn't hate it. It wasn't obnoxious. It was sexy.
Kal broke off his gaze. "Breakfast! The best part of Christmas!" He said cheerfully as he made his way to the dining room.
Bruce stood alone in the living room, fixed in place. He let out a breath he hadn't known he'd been holding before following Kal.
*********************
Later that morning, all three men sat in the living room. Alfred was admiring his new golf clubs that Bruce had bought him.
"I'm also sending you to Arizona for a week this winter so you can get some use out of them before the spring," Bruce said.
"A vacation, sir? Are you sure you can spare me?" Alfred had not had any time off since Bruce had taken on the role of Batman.
"Alfred, you've more than earned this. Words cannot express how grateful I am for your tireless help. I'll be fine. Pick your week, and have a good time."
"Thank-you, sir. Most generous of you."
Kal was smiling. "Aren't you going to open your gift, Bruce?"
Bruce glanced at the brightly-wrapped present from Kal.
"You really shouldn't have..."
"Just shut up and open it," Kal said impatiently as he handed it to Bruce.
Bruce sighed and carefully removed the ribbon and wrapping paper. He opened the shiny black box under the paper to find a small metallic circle. Bruce wondered if he was supposed to know what it was.
"It's from the planet Corbax," Kal explained, noticing Bruce's confusion, "It glows when someone is lying. I thought you might find it useful."
Bruce turned the disc over in his hands. "You got this when you went to find Krypton?"
"Yes."
Bruce was astonished. He was holding something from light years away. Something that Kal had gotten while traveling through space. And now he was sitting on Bruce's couch. Smiling warmly at him.
"What do you think?" Kal asked.
"Does it work on Kryptonians?" Bruce asked, smiling a little.
"I never lie," Kal said simply. The disc didn't glow. Bruce had his doubts that it actually worked.
"You lie everyday. Every time you're Clark Kent," Bruce pointed out.
"I don't really," Kal explained, "I've never actually said the words 'I'm not Superman' to anyone. I just avoid the question if it comes up."
"Master Bruce, I don't think I'll be taking that vacation," Alfred said suddenly, "I really can't think of anything I would rather be doing than spending my days in a damp cave full of flying rodents."
The disc glowed bright white.
Both Bruce and Kal stared at Alfred.
"I just wanted to see if it worked," Alfred said, smiling.
"Cute, Alfred," Bruce said flatly. The disc began to fade back to its original silver colour.
"This technology is astounding," Bruce marveled.
"Actually, would you believe it's natural?" Kal asked, "There are actually cliffs made of this stuff on Corbax. I think it's a living thing."
It was rare that Bruce was ever really impressed by anything. He was completely floored by this gift.
"Thank-you, Kal," Bruce said, finally remembering to thank him, "It's incredible."
Kal looked delighted.
"Well, sirs," Alfred said, standing, "I have a kitchen to clean. I'll leave you alone now. Thank-you, again, Master Bruce, for the thoughtful gift."
Kal was watching the snow gently falling outside the windows.
"Snow on Christmas," he observed, "You can't beat that."
Bruce turned the disc over one more time before placing it in his pocket. He watched Kal stare intently out the window.
"It's true, you know," Kal said, "No two snowflakes are alike."
Did Kal even know that every other thing he said was completely astonishing?
"Would you like to go for a walk, Kal? I can show you the grounds."
Kal turned, "I'd like that."
*********************
"So, the famous Superman curl," Bruce said, breaking the silence as the two men walked through the snow.
Kal smiled. "You want to know how I do it?"
"Just curious."
"Top secret," Kal said, winking.
"Smart ass."
Bruce was enjoying the fact that Kal was still only wearing his t-shirt and jeans, despite the sub-zero weather. Definitely a super-power perk.
More silence passed between them, Kal looking up at the sky and Bruce stealing glances at Kal.
"What are you listening to right now?" Bruce asked.
"Hmm? Oh, just...Christmas," Kal said awkwardly, "It's the best day of the year for sounds. There's so much happiness and music all over the world. It's relaxing." Kal stopped walking and looked at Bruce, "I wish you could hear it, too."
Bruce shoved his hands in his pockets, and gazed out at the white rolling hills.
"I can't hear a thing, Kal, and I find that pretty relaxing. Do you ever wish you could just listen to silence?"
"Of course," Kal said simply, "But not if it was at the expense of even one life that I could have saved if only I'd been listening."
A hint of a smile crossed Bruce's face. Kal caught it.
"What?" Kal asked.
"That's exactly how I would have answered."
"We might have more in common than you think, Bruce."
Again, Kal was right in front of him, challenging Bruce with his eyes. Bruce shivered, mostly from the weather.
"You're cold," Kal said, looking genuinely concerned, "Do you want me to..."
"No!" Bruce said, too loudly. "I'm fine. Don't...do that thing with your eyes."
Kal was so close. He stared at Bruce with an intensity that made Bruce uneasy.
"Don't...x-ray me either," Bruce said.
"I'm not," Kal said, his face serious.
Bruce wasn't sure what was happening. The more he looked at Kal, the more he felt himself losing control. He understood the science of Superman, and why he had powers on Earth. Yellow sun and all that. He still couldn't help but think of Kal as anything less than a fallen god. He was so beautiful and so pure and good. It made Bruce wince.
"I'm just a man," Bruce blurted out. He hadn't meant to say that out loud.
"No you're not," Kal said, studying Bruce like he was the most fascinating thing he had ever seen, "Bruce, what you do. Everything you've done. It's incredible. I want you to know that."
"It's not. I- anyone can do what I do," Bruce stammered.
"That's not true, Bruce. And even if they could, they don't. You do. I can't say that, without my powers, I would be out there risking my life."
Bruce was suddenly reminded of something he said during one of their first meetings.
"Kal, when I said that you weren't a hero. That you weren't brave. I was wrong. I knew at the time I was wrong. It was stupid. Your abilities make it easy for you to be a hero, but it would be far easier for you to be a conqueror. Most people, given your abilities, wouldn't be nearly as selfless as you are."
Kal smiled, "I had a good upbringing."
"The world is lucky that you are who you are, Kal."
"I'm lucky to be here."
Bruce was just thinking the same thing about himself.
Kal reached out and brushed a hand over Bruce's hair.
"You have snow in your hair," Kal said absently. He moved his hand down and brushed some off Bruce's shoulders as well.
"Kal," Bruce started, not knowing how he was going to finish the sentence.
"Bruce, I-" Kal said softly. He suddenly looked alarmed, "I have to go."
"Go?"
"Earthquake in the Pacific. The tsunami will reach the coast of Madagascar in minutes. I have to stop it,"
Bruce looked in the same direction as Kal, as if he could see what the Kryptonian saw. Everything was peaceful and white. When he looked back at Kal, he saw Superman standing in front of him.
"How-?"
"Bruce, thank-you. Again. I really enjoyed myself here. I'm sorry about this. I'm sure you understand."
"Of course."
Superman lifted into the air.
"Kal, I-" Bruce stopped. He had nothing to say. He knew he was just stalling, and it was embarrassing.
"I'll be seeing you, Bruce."
Then he was gone, leaving Bruce to walk back to the mansion alone.
On to Part 4
Part 2
Christmas Eve and Bruce was trying to decide if it was too late to call the whole thing off. He had no idea what possessed him to invite company for Christmas. Company he barely even knew. Or liked.
When he started this whole crusade against crime in Gotham, he never expected it would lead to spending Christmas with Superman. It was only slightly less ridiculous than spending it with Santa Claus. Until a few weeks ago, Superman was barely a person to him. Bruce had seen him as most of the world did, a force that existed on Earth. Not an actual person who went to work, took showers, got lonely and liked cherry vanilla ice cream. Not someone who grew up on a farm and was mourning his parents. Not someone who could possibly understand Bruce, or have anything in common with him.
"This is crazy," Bruce said aloud.
"Forgive me for saying it, sir," Alfred commented, "But I would consider having company for Christmas to be the least crazy thing you've done in awhile."
Bruce grunted from where he was leaning against the kitchen counter. Alfred was methodically cutting slits into chestnuts for roasting.
"Personally sir, I think it's good to see you making friends,"
"I have friends," Bruce protested.
"I meant that aren't in your employ, sir."
"You know, Alfred, I don't have to keep you in my employ," Bruce threatened.
"Hardly, sir. Where would you find another butler who would put up with all this nonsense?" Alfred winked at him, "Besides, without me you'd starve to death in a week."
Bruce looked at the floor, unsuccessfully trying to hide his grin.
"There you are, sir," Alfred said brightly, "It is Christmas, after all. It would do you good to take a holiday from the gloom."
The rich chimes of the doorbell echoed through the manor.
"Shit. He's here. Alfred, he's here. Tell him...I had to leave town. Apologize."
"Not this time, Sir," Alfred said as he wiped his hands and exited the kitchen, "Besides, I'm quite certain he can hear you."
Shit.
Well, Bruce couldn't hide in the kitchen. He went to the living room, passing what had to be the largest Christmas tree yet. Should he be standing? Sitting? By the fire? Reading? What was wrong with him?
Too late.
"Master Bruce, Mr. Kent has arrived."
Bruce stood in the middle of the room and stared at his guest. It wasn't Clark Kent or Superman. It was an entirely new version of the man.
"Kal," he said, a little more breathless than he wanted to sound, "Welcome to Wayne Manor."
"It's...big," Kal said, looking around. He wasn't wearing the glasses, and his hair fell in his face. He was casually dressed in jeans and a navy blue sweater that made his eyes look even more blue, if that was possible. Unlike the oversized suits he wore as Clark, these clothes didn't hide the man's perfect physique.
Superman shops for clothes.
"How old is this place?" Kal asked, when Bruce didn't say anything.
"How old?" Superman is in my living room.
"The manor," Kal was eyeing Bruce strangely, "How old is it?"
Bruce snapped back to reality. "Technically it's almost two years old. But it's more or less an exact replica of the manor that stood here for over two hundred years until it burned to the ground."
"Burned? How did that happen?"
Bruce didn't want to get into it. "Bad party guest."
Both men stood in silence, keeping a considerable distance between them. It was more awkward than Bruce even feared. He wasn't really good at hanging out. This would be much easier if he could just slip into Brucie mode.
Alfred finally broke the silence when he entered the room.
"Mr. Kent, you'll find your belongings in the second room to the left of the main staircase. Might I offer you something to drink?"
"Uh...sure. Some juice, maybe? I mean, I can get it myself."
"Not at all, sir. Will grapefruit be acceptable?"
"Yeah. That's fine. Uh, thank-you, Mr. ..."
"Alfred, sir. Just Alfred," then Alfred grinned at Bruce before exiting the room, "Another health nut. I can tell it's going to be a wild time at the manor tonight."
"I could never get used to that," Kal said to Bruce.
"To what? Sarcasm?"
"No. To having a butler. Don't you ever feel bad that he has to do all that stuff for you?"
"No, I don't," Bruce said, adding, "And neither does he. It's complicated."
Kal just nodded and turned his attention to the tree. "You weren't lying about the tree," he observed, "It's huge."
"Yes, well, it would be tragic to let Christmas pass without hauling a giant plant into the living room for a few days."
"Did Alfred decorate it?"
"I assume. It certainly wasn't me."
Alfred returned with Kal's juice, and the promise of roasted chestnuts in a few minutes before retreating to the kitchen.
"Chestnuts," Kal said, after a minute of silence.
"Yes," Bruce said blankly. He watched Kal take a sip of juice and wondered if he shouldn't get a drink of his own, just so he'd also have something to do. Kal looked just as uncomfortable as he did.
"Look, Bruce," Kal said finally, "I just want to say that I really appreciate this. Since my mother died, I've been...well, it would have been hard. Spending Christmas alone. So, thank-you."
"It's...not a problem," Bruce said, struggling a little to find the right words. He wasn't used to being thanked. "I'm sorry it's not as...cozy...as the Christmases you remember in Kansas. To be honest, I've forgotten what people actually do on Christmas Eve."
Clark smiled and took a few steps toward Bruce so they weren't projecting across a room.
"People just get together with friends and enjoy each other's company," Kal said.
"With friends?"
"Yeah. Friends," Kal repeated, "And there is usually food involved too. And then you spend the whole night trying to sleep, but you can't."
Well, at least Bruce was familiar with that last part.
Silence filled the room again. Kal finished his juice with a giant gulp, then started fidgeting with the glass. Bruce wondered if the fire needed tending. It didn't. Dammit.
"This is ridiculous, isn't it?" Kal asked suddenly.
"What part?"
"Us! We're so unused to just being ourselves that neither of us can just relax."
Bruce considered this. "You'd be surprised how seldom I'm relaxed."
"Me neither," Kal sighed, "I mean, right now I am listening to a couple arguing in Chicago, and a little girl crying in Arizona because her mother just died. On Christmas Eve."
"You can hear all that?" Bruce was astonished.
"I can hear everything, all the time. I can fade it out, but it's hard. If I do I might miss something."
Years ago, Bruce had taken on the responsibility of watching over Gotham. Every night he watched and listened to his city, protecting the innocent and punishing the guilty. It was exhausting, but he would never consider quitting. Even taking this one night off was difficult for him. He couldn't imagine hearing the pain of the whole world, and feeling obligated to protect everyone. Even with superpowers, the strain would be incredible.
Kal turned his head. "Alfred's taking the chestnuts out of the oven," he said.
Bruce raised an eyebrow. "And what colour underwear is he wearing?"
"What?" Kal actually seemed to be blushing, "I just..."
"It was a joke, Kal."
"Oh."
"Look," Bruce said, suddenly struck by an idea, "Why don't we go to the kitchen. To be honest, I've always hated this room. And we'll save Alfred the walk."
Kal smiled, "Good idea."
*************************
Within an hour the Wayne Manor kitchen was filled with laughter for the first time in nearly two decades.
"Yeah!" Kal exclaimed, "so Luthor had this hallway trap that he wanted me to walk through. I mean, he actually built this thing! And it was so ridiculous. There was one machine that shot fire, and another that froze me in a block of ice. So I walked through it, mostly because I would have felt bad for him if I'd just smashed it. I mean, it was really sad. I was embarrassed for him."
Bruce was actually laughing. Hard. They had been trading stories about the stupidest criminals they had encountered. Kal was definitely winning.
"Did he think he could stop you with that contraption, or did he just want to see you in action?" Bruce asked, smiling.
"I have no idea," Kal shook his head, grinning as he threw another chestnut into his mouth, "That guy is crazy. You wouldn't even believe some of the stuff he's tried."
"Well, Master Bruce, perhaps I can relax somewhat when you go out at night. I had no idea you were facing such complete imbeciles."
Bruce raised his glass of egg nog, "To stupid criminals."
Kal and Alfred both raised their glasses. "To stupid criminals."
"Well, sirs," Alfred said brightly, "As I am not in the superhero profession, I believe I'll enjoy a real drink. It is Christmas, after all."
"You'll find a present for you in the cabinet," Bruce said.
Alfred opened the liquor cabinet and pulled out a tall black bottle.
"Very nice, sir!" he said, examining the label of the vintage port, "Just what I wanted. Are you certain you won't join me?"
Bruce glanced at Kal.
"Oh, no," Kal stammered, "I-I don't usually drink."
"That sounds like Clark Kent talking," Bruce observed, "Can you even get drunk?"
"I don't know. I've never really tried," Kal admitted.
"Oh for pity's sake!" Alfred exclaimed, "I'm pouring three glasses. Two young men and neither of them will allow themselves to enjoy a classic vintage wine on Christmas. Ridiculous."
"Fine," Bruce said, "One glass."
*********************
"Bruce," Kal mock whispered from where he was sitting on the floor, leaning against the refrigerator door, "Bruuuuuuce. Guess what?"
"What?" Bruce asked, grinning lazily and sitting on the floor opposite the Kryptonian.
"I think I can get drunk," Kal giggled.
"I think you drank that third bottle by yourself."
Alfred had gone to bed over an hour ago, after one drink. The two younger men had stayed in the kitchen, talking and drinking and losing track of time.
"What are you thinking about, Bruce?"
"Nothing."
"I'll bet," Kal pointed an accusing finger, "I'll bet you never think about nothing, Bruce. You're thinking about something. You want to ask me something."
"Alright."
"Ask away," Kal said spreading his arms dramatically.
"The woman you love. It's Lois Lane, right?"
Kal rested his head against the fridge, "Loisss. Yeah. It's her. She's married now. Her husband can fly."
"Fly?"
"He's a pilot."
Oh.
"You know what sucks about being a super-powered alien?" Kal asked.
Bruce couldn't really think of anything off the top of his head.
"I loved Lois. I wanted to marry her. But my parents - the Kryptonian ones - said I wasn't allowed to love a human unless I became one of them."
"And how exactly do you become human, Kal?"
Kal made a dismissive motion with his hand. "It doesn't matter. I did it once, so I could be with Lois. Then I had to get my powers back."
Bruce straightened up, "You mean, you gave up your powers so you could..."
"No!" Kal exclaimed, then looked thoughtful, "Well...yeah. So I could have sex."
Bruce leaned forward, "Are you telling me, Kal, that until, what, five or six years ago, you were a virgin?"
Kal bit his lip nervously, "Yes?"
"And that you've only had sex..."
"Once."
"In your life?!"
"Yes."
Bruce leaned back. "Wow."
"It gets better. Lois's son."
No way. "No way."
"He's mine," Kal shook his head, "I had sex once in my life!"
"So Lois must know that you and Clark Kent are..."
"No," Kal interrupted, "She did. But, she doesn't remember."
"Doesn't remember?"
"I had to...make her forget. But I didn't know she was pregnant!"
Bruce decided to ask how exactly Kal could make her forget later.
"So," Bruce asked, stretching out his legs "She doesn't know who the father is?"
"No. She knows. She knows it's Superman's son."
Maybe it was the wine, but this was all very confusing.
"Kal...wow. I don't even know what to say."
"Tell me about it. I guess it's true what they say about sex complicating everything."
"Well, I don't know if your situation is what they're talking about,"
Kal sighed, "I could have handled that better. Then I left. I had no idea she was pregnant. If I'd known that, I..."
"You didn't know, Kal."
The grandfather clock in the hall chimed twelve times.
"Midnight," Kal said, "Merry Christmas, Bruce."
"Sure," Bruce frowned.
"Hey," Kal said brightly, "Let's change the subject."
"To what?"
Kal grinned. "Your love life."
Bruce snorted. "Well, that will be a short conversation."
"I hear Bruce Wayne is quite the lady killer."
"He does alright," Bruce agreed, "But I wouldn't call it a love life."
"Have you ever been in love?"
"No," Bruce answered quickly, "I can't afford that luxury."
"Bruce, I have to ask...you were dancing with Selina Kyle. And you looked pretty comfortable with her. Have you ever..."
"Once or twice."
"But she's Catwoman!"
"It's complicated, Kal."
"Oh, you always say that," Kal's voice became distant "Sleeping with the enemy. I guess there's something intriguing about that. Although I would have to sleep with Luthor, and that is not going to happen."
Bruce laughed, "If you ask me, he'd like it to happen."
"Ugh!" Kal made a face as he threw a chestnut shell at Bruce, "Oh, God. That's a mental picture I'll never get rid of."
"You're welcome."
Bruce wasn't sure why he still wanted to talk about sex with this guy. He decided not to think about it too much.
"So, what your parents said. About giving up your powers. Are you...unable to have sex with your powers?"
Kal cleared his throat, "I-I don't know. I guess it would be risky. I was just doing what they told me. I assume there's a good reason."
"Little old to be asking your parents permission."
"I couldn't live with myself if I lost control and hurt someone," Kal said quietly, staring at the floor.
Bruce stared at him. Kal's hair was mussed. He had removed the sweater some time ago, and was now wearing only a grey t-shirt with the jeans. His face was flushed, probably due to a mix of alcohol and embarrassment. He was absently tracing the pattern in the floor tiles, his long legs crossed in front of him.
Then the Kryptonian lowered himself so he was lying on his side, his face pressed against the tiles. One arm stretched over his head, lifting his t-shirt to expose part of his stomach.
"Mmmm...the floor is nice and cool," he mumbled sleepily.
Bruce was feeling a little warm himself, suddenly.
"Kal?" He started, then stopped himself. He knew he shouldn't let Kal fall asleep on the kitchen floor, but he didn't want to stop looking at him.
Bruce sighed and decided to do the right thing. Eventually.
"Kal," he said again. When he didn't get a response, he reached a hand out and placed it on Kal's shoulder. So warm. He shook him gently. "Kal?"
"Mrmf?"
"We should go to bed. You'll like bed. It's better than the floor, believe me."
"We can't go to bed, Bruce. I'll hurt you. Parents said," he mumbled.
"Er..." Bruce quickly removed his hand. He must have misheard him. Maybe in his sleepy state, Kal thought Bruce was Lois. And maybe he sometimes called Lois 'Bruce.'
"I meant, we should go to sleep now. In our rooms," Bruce emphasized the plural.
"Ohhh...Ok," Kal pushed himself up, still mostly asleep.
Bruce draped Kal's arm over his shoulders as they walked toward the stairs. He was heavy.
"Thank-you, Bruce," Kal mumbled, "Needed this."
"No problem. You need to walk up these stairs."
"Ok." Kal slowly climbed the stairs, dragging his sweater behind him.
Bruce finally got Kal into his room. He resisted tucking him into bed. He wanted to distance himself from him as soon as possible so he could go to his own room and freak out.
He tried not to think about the fact that Superman had basically said that he would like to sleep with him if only his parents would let him. There was so much weird about that, it was best to just forget about it.
As if that was possible.
It wasn't as if Bruce was bothered by the idea of being intimate with a man. He'd known for quite some time that he was open to that sort of thing. Just ask Harvey.
But this was Superman, and this was insane.
Also, wasn't Kal just telling him about his undying love for Lois Lane? And about his son?
Christ.
Bruce got into bed, trying to think about something else. Fresh images of Kal's blinding smile, his golden skin, his sapphire eyes, ran through Bruce's mind. He tried not to notice how turned on he was. God damn. Superman could probably hear erections.
Right. Taking care of himself was not an option. Kal could hear him. Kal could see him, for chrissakes. Just go to sleep, and everything will be normal in the morning.
In the morning. When he'd see Kal again. The man the world knew as Superman, but only Bruce knew as Kal. Kal was only for him. Superman belonged to the world, but Kal was all his.
Bruce gasped as he found his own hand on his cock. He had to stop. Kal was down the hall. He'd know.
Bruce bit his lip, but couldn't stop. He thought about Kal hovering above him, endless golden skin and sculpted muscles. Blue eyes wide, dark lips wet.
He had to stop.
Kal was down the hall. Superman was down the hall. In one of his bedrooms. Was he thinking about Bruce? Was he listening? Was he watching? Was he doing the same thing?
Oh God.
He had to stop.
He stroked harder, biting his hand to muffle any sound, like it mattered. Kal, the beautiful near-virgin who could save the whole world. Who left, but came back to save them all. Who sought Bruce out, hoping Bruce could save him. Kal would save Bruce. The world could have Superman. Bruce would have Kal. Kal wanted to have Bruce.
Harder. Faster. Fuck.
He had to stop.
There was no way he could stop.
He bit his hand hard enough to break the skin. He tasted blood as he came, his eyes clenched shut, seeing nothing but deep blue eyes.
After the last shudders rippled through his body, Bruce lay perfectly still. He held his breath. He strained to hear any signs that the other man had heard him. He had no idea what he was listening for.
Stupid. Weak.
And now he had to clean himself up.
He straightened himself out quickly in the bathroom. He looked at his reflection, his face flushed, his eyes bleary. He quietly returned to his bed, still listening for any noise from down the hall. Total silence.
His head spun as he hit the pillow, unused to having alcohol in his system.
He was losing control of himself, and he couldn't entirely blame the wine. He had to get a grip. He shouldn't have taken this night off. It was shaking him up, making him lose focus. He couldn't afford leisurely conversations and silly crushes. They were not part of his mission.
He shouldn't have had anything to drink. He could be out there now. He had been selfish, convincing himself that he could take a break. Justifying it because it was a meaningless holiday. As if the spirit of Christmas would protect the innocent while Batman got drunk.
Kal was right about Christmas Eve. Bruce couldn't sleep a wink.
*********************
Morning came far too quickly. If Bruce had slept at all, it was brief and he had no memory of it. He gave up on the idea entirely when the clock hit 6 am, throwing off the blankets angrily. He took a scalding hot shower, longer than necessary.
When would Kal be waking up? What were they even supposed to do today?
Bruce needed to get into the cave. He needed to check the news and the scanners from last night. He had to find out what he missed, and what he could have prevented.
He dressed quickly and moved silently to the downstairs library. Alfred should be awake now, but he didn't see or hear any sign of him. He opened the passage to the elevator.
As soon as he entered the cave he felt better. His life made sense again.
What does it say about me that my life only makes sense when I'm alone in an underground laboratory full of bats?
The computers told Bruce that last night had been slow for crime. Nothing significant reported. Nothing reported. He knew that he stopped crimes every night that would have never been called in.
He stayed in the cave for over an hour, working. He fixed some damaged equipment, re-stocked his utility belt. His head hurt and he was thirsty. He went back upstairs to get some water from the kitchen. Alfred was making breakfast.
"Master Bruce! It's a surprise to see you up at this hour," he remarked as he whisked a bowl of eggs.
Bruce winced at the noise of the whisk hitting the sides of the bowl.
"Feeling a bit off this morning, are we sir?" Alfred asked with a knowing smile, "Nothing some hot coffee and a decent breakfast won't fix."
"I'll take water for now," Bruce said as he opened endless cupboard doors, searching for the glasses.
"Third from the right, Sir," Alfred said without looking up, "By the way, Merry Christmas, sir."
Bruce poured himself a glass of water and drained it in one gulp. "Merry Christmas, Alfred."
"Breakfast will be ready shortly, sir."
Bruce remembered that he had Alfred's present in his bedroom.
"I'll be back soon, Alfred. I forgot something upstairs."
Bruce climbed the stairs quietly, trying not to wake Kal. This logic was, of course, stupid.
Bruce was almost past Kal's door when it flew open. Kal stood there, shirtless. His hair was mussed and his feet were bare.
"Morning Bruce," he said sleepily as he rubbed an eye, "Merry Christmas."
Bruce once again found himself speechless and staring.
Kal's eyes focused on the floor and grew wide. "Whoa! Is that breakfast?!"
Bruce snapped out of it. "How are you feeling, Kal?"
"Huh?" Kal asked, confused "Fine. Why?"
"Well..."
"Oh, right. The wine," Kal grinned, "I feel fine. Another superpower, I guess. Ability to get drunk without the nasty side-affects. I hope I didn't say anything embarrassing."
"You don't remember?"
"Oh God," Kal moaned, "What did I say?"
"Nothing," Bruce lied, enjoying the way Kal's sculpted, tanned skin flowed into the waistband of his dark blue pajama pants.
"I don't believe you," Kal said, "But I'm probably better off not knowing the truth."
The good thing was that Kal didn't seem to be aware of what Bruce had gotten up to last night in bed. At least, he wasn't letting on if he did.
"Well..." Kal said, "I should probably get dressed."
"That's not..." Bruce stopped himself before saying 'necessary.'
"Is there a shower I can use behind one of these doors?"
"Yes. I believe you'll find one in..."
"Third door to my left. Found it," Kal said, smiling.
Bruce grimaced. "You certainly get a lot of use out of that x-ray vision."
"Wouldn't you?"
"I would respect the privacy of others."
"What makes you think I don't?" Kal asked, looking hurt.
"Nothing. I don't think that. Forget I said anything," Bruce said quickly. Shut up, Bruce.
"Alright. Well, I'm going to take a shower," Kal said, edging toward the bathroom. Probably just trying to get away from Bruce's creepy staring.
"Kal," Bruce said, just as Kal was entering the bathroom.
"Yes, Bruce?"
"Merry Christmas."
Kal smiled and closed the door. A minute later Bruce heard the water running, and he couldn't honestly say that if he had x-ray vision at that moment that he wouldn't be using it.
Bruce suddenly remembered why he had come upstairs in the first place. He went to his bedroom and retrieved Alfred's present from one of the closets. He knew that Alfred had probably already found it. Bruce still made sure the coast was clear before sneaking it into the living room.
He noticed a couple of other presents were wrapped and under the tree that hadn't been there last night. He was surprised to see one for him from Kal. When had Kal put it there?
Bruce reminded himself that Kal could have actually put it there while he was just talking to him. He would have moved so fast Bruce wouldn't even have noticed. Bruce felt weird again. Superman. Christmas.
Crap. He didn't get Kal anything. Bruce was the worst Christmas host ever.
What do you give Superman? It didn't matter, anyway. It was too late now.
Alfred would know what to do.
Bruce entered the kitchen, frantic.
"Alfred, there's a present for me under the tree from Kal."
"Goodness, sir! That is mysterious! Should we alert the Batman?"
"I'm serious, Alfred. I didn't get him anything."
"Well perhaps you can bake him some cookies, sir," Alfred said, smiling to himself, "Or maybe construct a scrapbook. I hear that's very trendy."
Alfred was not going to be any help. He was now actually laughing at his own joke.
"Oh dear," he chuckled, "I would very much love to see that scrapbook."
"Thanks, Alfred," Bruce said angrily before exiting the kitchen.
"Perhaps you could write him a song," Alfred called after him, still laughing.
When Bruce returned to the living room, Kal was sitting on the couch.
"It's ok, Bruce," Kal said, "You've already given me enough. All I wanted for Christmas was some company."
"You heard that conversation."
Kal shrugged apologetically. He was now wearing a cranberry long-sleeved t-shirt and jeans. His hair fell in his eyes. "I wouldn't say no to a song," he teased.
"You shouldn't have gotten me anything," Bruce said.
"Can't you lighten up a little? It's Christmas."
"I should have been out there last night. Patrolling."
Kal stood. "Bruce, you earned the right to take one night off."
"It doesn't work that way," Bruce said, more angry than he wanted to sound.
"I know," Kal said quietly. He moved right in front of Bruce. "But I think you needed it. I know I did."
"You have no idea what I need," Bruce said darkly, staring directly into Kal's eyes. They were so close. Bruce's hand twitched. He wanted to reach out. He wanted to touch. He could feel the warmth radiating off Kal's body.
"Breakfast is served, sirs!" Alfred announced. Bruce was startled. He hadn't noticed Alfred enter the room.
Kal seemed unfazed. He continued to look directly at Bruce, a slight smirk on his lips. This time Bruce didn't hate it. It wasn't obnoxious. It was sexy.
Kal broke off his gaze. "Breakfast! The best part of Christmas!" He said cheerfully as he made his way to the dining room.
Bruce stood alone in the living room, fixed in place. He let out a breath he hadn't known he'd been holding before following Kal.
*********************
Later that morning, all three men sat in the living room. Alfred was admiring his new golf clubs that Bruce had bought him.
"I'm also sending you to Arizona for a week this winter so you can get some use out of them before the spring," Bruce said.
"A vacation, sir? Are you sure you can spare me?" Alfred had not had any time off since Bruce had taken on the role of Batman.
"Alfred, you've more than earned this. Words cannot express how grateful I am for your tireless help. I'll be fine. Pick your week, and have a good time."
"Thank-you, sir. Most generous of you."
Kal was smiling. "Aren't you going to open your gift, Bruce?"
Bruce glanced at the brightly-wrapped present from Kal.
"You really shouldn't have..."
"Just shut up and open it," Kal said impatiently as he handed it to Bruce.
Bruce sighed and carefully removed the ribbon and wrapping paper. He opened the shiny black box under the paper to find a small metallic circle. Bruce wondered if he was supposed to know what it was.
"It's from the planet Corbax," Kal explained, noticing Bruce's confusion, "It glows when someone is lying. I thought you might find it useful."
Bruce turned the disc over in his hands. "You got this when you went to find Krypton?"
"Yes."
Bruce was astonished. He was holding something from light years away. Something that Kal had gotten while traveling through space. And now he was sitting on Bruce's couch. Smiling warmly at him.
"What do you think?" Kal asked.
"Does it work on Kryptonians?" Bruce asked, smiling a little.
"I never lie," Kal said simply. The disc didn't glow. Bruce had his doubts that it actually worked.
"You lie everyday. Every time you're Clark Kent," Bruce pointed out.
"I don't really," Kal explained, "I've never actually said the words 'I'm not Superman' to anyone. I just avoid the question if it comes up."
"Master Bruce, I don't think I'll be taking that vacation," Alfred said suddenly, "I really can't think of anything I would rather be doing than spending my days in a damp cave full of flying rodents."
The disc glowed bright white.
Both Bruce and Kal stared at Alfred.
"I just wanted to see if it worked," Alfred said, smiling.
"Cute, Alfred," Bruce said flatly. The disc began to fade back to its original silver colour.
"This technology is astounding," Bruce marveled.
"Actually, would you believe it's natural?" Kal asked, "There are actually cliffs made of this stuff on Corbax. I think it's a living thing."
It was rare that Bruce was ever really impressed by anything. He was completely floored by this gift.
"Thank-you, Kal," Bruce said, finally remembering to thank him, "It's incredible."
Kal looked delighted.
"Well, sirs," Alfred said, standing, "I have a kitchen to clean. I'll leave you alone now. Thank-you, again, Master Bruce, for the thoughtful gift."
Kal was watching the snow gently falling outside the windows.
"Snow on Christmas," he observed, "You can't beat that."
Bruce turned the disc over one more time before placing it in his pocket. He watched Kal stare intently out the window.
"It's true, you know," Kal said, "No two snowflakes are alike."
Did Kal even know that every other thing he said was completely astonishing?
"Would you like to go for a walk, Kal? I can show you the grounds."
Kal turned, "I'd like that."
*********************
"So, the famous Superman curl," Bruce said, breaking the silence as the two men walked through the snow.
Kal smiled. "You want to know how I do it?"
"Just curious."
"Top secret," Kal said, winking.
"Smart ass."
Bruce was enjoying the fact that Kal was still only wearing his t-shirt and jeans, despite the sub-zero weather. Definitely a super-power perk.
More silence passed between them, Kal looking up at the sky and Bruce stealing glances at Kal.
"What are you listening to right now?" Bruce asked.
"Hmm? Oh, just...Christmas," Kal said awkwardly, "It's the best day of the year for sounds. There's so much happiness and music all over the world. It's relaxing." Kal stopped walking and looked at Bruce, "I wish you could hear it, too."
Bruce shoved his hands in his pockets, and gazed out at the white rolling hills.
"I can't hear a thing, Kal, and I find that pretty relaxing. Do you ever wish you could just listen to silence?"
"Of course," Kal said simply, "But not if it was at the expense of even one life that I could have saved if only I'd been listening."
A hint of a smile crossed Bruce's face. Kal caught it.
"What?" Kal asked.
"That's exactly how I would have answered."
"We might have more in common than you think, Bruce."
Again, Kal was right in front of him, challenging Bruce with his eyes. Bruce shivered, mostly from the weather.
"You're cold," Kal said, looking genuinely concerned, "Do you want me to..."
"No!" Bruce said, too loudly. "I'm fine. Don't...do that thing with your eyes."
Kal was so close. He stared at Bruce with an intensity that made Bruce uneasy.
"Don't...x-ray me either," Bruce said.
"I'm not," Kal said, his face serious.
Bruce wasn't sure what was happening. The more he looked at Kal, the more he felt himself losing control. He understood the science of Superman, and why he had powers on Earth. Yellow sun and all that. He still couldn't help but think of Kal as anything less than a fallen god. He was so beautiful and so pure and good. It made Bruce wince.
"I'm just a man," Bruce blurted out. He hadn't meant to say that out loud.
"No you're not," Kal said, studying Bruce like he was the most fascinating thing he had ever seen, "Bruce, what you do. Everything you've done. It's incredible. I want you to know that."
"It's not. I- anyone can do what I do," Bruce stammered.
"That's not true, Bruce. And even if they could, they don't. You do. I can't say that, without my powers, I would be out there risking my life."
Bruce was suddenly reminded of something he said during one of their first meetings.
"Kal, when I said that you weren't a hero. That you weren't brave. I was wrong. I knew at the time I was wrong. It was stupid. Your abilities make it easy for you to be a hero, but it would be far easier for you to be a conqueror. Most people, given your abilities, wouldn't be nearly as selfless as you are."
Kal smiled, "I had a good upbringing."
"The world is lucky that you are who you are, Kal."
"I'm lucky to be here."
Bruce was just thinking the same thing about himself.
Kal reached out and brushed a hand over Bruce's hair.
"You have snow in your hair," Kal said absently. He moved his hand down and brushed some off Bruce's shoulders as well.
"Kal," Bruce started, not knowing how he was going to finish the sentence.
"Bruce, I-" Kal said softly. He suddenly looked alarmed, "I have to go."
"Go?"
"Earthquake in the Pacific. The tsunami will reach the coast of Madagascar in minutes. I have to stop it,"
Bruce looked in the same direction as Kal, as if he could see what the Kryptonian saw. Everything was peaceful and white. When he looked back at Kal, he saw Superman standing in front of him.
"How-?"
"Bruce, thank-you. Again. I really enjoyed myself here. I'm sorry about this. I'm sure you understand."
"Of course."
Superman lifted into the air.
"Kal, I-" Bruce stopped. He had nothing to say. He knew he was just stalling, and it was embarrassing.
"I'll be seeing you, Bruce."
Then he was gone, leaving Bruce to walk back to the mansion alone.
On to Part 4