Fic: Man of Steel: A Risk Worth Taking (26/?)
Title: Man of Steel: A Risk Worth Taking (26/?)
Author: Babette babettew54
Canon: Superman (MOS)
Pairings; Characters: Clark/Lois, Martha Kent, Sam Lane, Lucy Lane, Lex Luthor, Bruce Wayne, Original Character(s)
Rating: M
Word Count: 5,400
Summary: Lois couldn’t decide whether to ask him out or overwhelm him with questions hopefully to finish the ‘Story of the Century.’
Spoilers: None. It is just speculation about hand touching in the trailer and what it could mean for Clois. The story continues with more speculation about Clois and the upcoming sequel.
Disclaimer: DC Comics/Warner Bros. Entertainment owns these characters. This is strictly for my own amusement.
Author's Notes: In this next chapter, Erica is shocked to find Bill on her doorstep, Ron and Lucy have their first date, Bruce and Selina finally get some precious time alone, and later Lois goes missing and Clark is living his worst nightmare. Read on.
Updated: Click the banner to see more character pictures!
X-posted: (FFN); (A03)
Previously:
ACT I: The Only Thing That Matters
( Chapter 1)( Chapter 2)( Chapter 3)( Chapter 4)( Chapter 5)
( Chapter 6)( Chapter 7)(Chapter 8)( Chapter 9)( Chapter 10)
( Chapter 11)( Chapter 12)( Chapter 13) ( Chapter 14)( Chapter 15)
ACT II: All I’ve Ever Wanted
( Chapter 16)( Chapter 17)( Chapter 18)( Chapter 19)( Chapter 20)
( Chapter 21)( Chapter 22)( Chapter 23)
ACT III: For the Love of You
( Chapter 24)( Chapter 25)
Chapter 26: You Gave Me Wings
Hours later, Metropolis Police Headquarters:
After spending the whole day at police headquarters and answering more questions pertaining to their statements, it appeared as if the brothers had spoken the truth. John was not happy about the results of his findings. The prosecutor was not happy about it either, especially when the two brothers revealed they had no idea where the other scientists were located.
The prosecutor had made a decision. They would not be charged. She had seen enough. Their whereabouts over the past few months had been confirmed, meaning they had not left town since the clone war. Their phone records as well as their computer activity including emails, were also checked out. Bill and Alan were released from police custody.
Once outside, Alan was extremely relieved to be a free man, that he smacked his brother on the back. "It's over, it's truly over?" Alan asked as they hailed a cab.
"No, it's just begun," Bill thoughtfully replied, thinking about Erica.
"I know what you're thinking. I've seen that look on your face every day for months now. Are you going to see her?"
"I don't think she would want to see me," Bill replied.
"I think she will and once she finds out what happened in the warehouse, she'll fall into your arms." Alan was only half-joking.
Bill grinned. "Not likely."
"It's worth a shot." He watched him closely. "Don't give up without even trying."
Once in the cab, Bill was thinking the same thing. "You're right. Cabbie, stop the car." He quickly got out, his decision made. "You head home and I'll call you. I'm going to the airport."
Alan smiled. "Good luck, brother." They shook hands.
"Thanks, Alan."
~o~o~
Meanwhile, in upstate New York:
Erica was downstairs giving last minute instructions to the movers. She felt confident and optimistic about the future. After seeing the news about Bill's release from police custody, she felt sure that everything would be alright.
She did not know why she felt that way considering her recent past, but there was no point feeling down and dejected. She touched her stomach feeling hopeful. Her nightmares had stopped, at least for now, she had her health, her babies' health and her family was well.
A little while later, she received a text from Clark. About an hour ago, Bill had left town on his way to New York. She closed the phone not knowing what to think.
It was just after the evening meal when her doorbell rang. She was at the top of the stairs and watched as Ellen, their housekeeper opened the front door. She put her hand over her mouth as Bill walked in with red roses in his arms.
He looked very handsome wearing a blue shirt, a sport coat, slacks and a shy smile. He looked up and their gazes locked. His heartbeat accelerated at seeing her again plus the fact that she was alright and well warmed his heart.
Ellen saw their looks but did not know what to think. "Sir, may I help you?" She asked.
"It's alright Ellen, I know this man," Erica said as slowly walked down the stairs.
"Yes, madam," Ellen said and left them alone.
He watched as Erica came over to greet him. She was lovely to him. Her eyes were what drew him to her. They were a lovely shade of green, her complexion was flawless, her body was stunning and of course the swelling in the stomach confirmed that she was pregnant.
Suddenly, he was at a loss as to what to say. Of course, she was stunned to see him too. He should have called first, but he was afraid she would hang up on him. He was frozen in place. Erica was also frozen still tongue-tied by his sudden appearance in her home.
He had to know. "Do you want me to leave?"
"Well, I …" Erica was still stunned.
"I know. These are for you." He held out the flowers.
Erica stared at the flowers then at his face. She came closer then she took the flowers.
"Thank you, they're lovely."
"Well, now that I see that you're alright, I'll go now," Bill turned toward the door, hoping she would prevent him from leaving. He slowly opened the door.
Erica could not let him leave. "Wait, don't go."
Closing his eyes for a moment, he turned to her. He came closer. "Are you truly alright? I mean …"
"Yes, I'm alright, but it's been tough these past few months." Looking down, she touched her stomach.
Bill was just outraged. "I can't tell you how much I hate him for what he did to you, to all of us."
Erica was curious about that statement then she needed to learn more. "I'll just put these in a vase. We can talk in here. Come with me?"
Inwardly smiling, Bill followed her into the kitchen where he watched as she put the flowers in a vase after adding water. She then placed them on the breakfast table.
She turned to him. "So, the police let you go?" She sounded surprised.
"You think I'm guilty, don't you?" Bill was not surprised she would feel that way. Everyone thought they were responsible for the clone war.
She certainly wasn't sure about that, but then her dream of him came into her mind and she actually believed the dream, the feelings were still there then she decided to trust her instincts. "No, I don't think you're guilty."
Immensely relieved, he suddenly realized that there were boxes, lots of boxes piled up there in the kitchen and in the hallway. "Are you moving?"
"Yes, we're moving to Florida in a few days."
Bill wasn't expecting that. "Oh, I see." He seemed upset.
"Would you like something to drink?" She turned to the coffee maker. "Why didn't you call become coming here?"
"I was afraid you would hang up on me."
"Well, I can't say whether I would have or not. But seeing you again after everything that happened in that place, it feels really weird."
He grinned. "I know what you mean. We couldn't have spent more than ten minutes together, but I felt I had to see you again to be sure you were Ok."
Erica was still intrigued by the man. "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"How did you find me?" Erica wanted to know.
"Well, your name is very rare. It wasn't difficult."
"I see." She turned from him. The water was ready for the coffee pot. "I can't have coffee as you can see." She touched her stomach again.
The next thing she knew, he was standing right beside her. "I'll do that."
Erica was shocked at his nearness. Her heart pounded like never before.
"I have a confession to make," Bill said as she watched her put some distance between them.
"What is it?" Erica asked as watched him closely.
"The entire time I was hiding and wondering if I would have my life back, I thought of you, how you were, if you were safe and happy." He turned to her. "Are you happy, Erica?"
She turned from him and walked over to the French doors then looked up at the sky. He came up behind her. He dared to touch her shoulder.
Erica closed her eyes at his touch. "Am I happy? I try not to ask that question too often."
"I know. Happiness is just a word. It doesn't mean anything." He squeezed her shoulder.
Erica frowned as she turned to him. "Why can't we have what we want? I thought I was happy with him, but I wasn't, not really. It was all a façade but I know the truth now."
"What truth is that?"
"Honesty and trust are very important in a relationship. If you believe in someone and trust someone with your heart, then love will come, and maybe some fun too."
"I agree." He paused. "I want you to trust me, Erica. I want to get to know you and I want you to know me."
"But why? Like you said we were together only a few minutes." Erica did not believe this was happening.
"I don't know why but this, you and me, it feels right. For some strange reason, I want to protect you and your family. I know you went through hell." He paused then decided to tell her the truth. "I know what Lex tried to do to you."
She frowned. "You know, but …"
"Erica, I saved you from him." At her surprise, he continued. "I saw him carry you upstairs, placed you inside a growth pod, but I stopped him from giving you something through a syringe. I talked him out of hurting you and convinced him to leave Paul behind with you."
"You did that … for me?" Erica was incredulous. "But why?" She asked again.
He shook his head at her. "Isn't it clear? Because I care what happens to you. Luthor is an animal. He did not deserve you."
Erica was stunned by his statement then she decided to tell him about her dream. "I dreamed of you."
Now it was Bill's turn to be stunned. He smiled at her, and Erica was transfixed. "You did?"
"Yeah, I did. I was in Florida on the beach with my children and you were there. You spoke to me. I didn't remember you at first but you mentioned the warehouse and then I remembered. I awoke just after that." She paused as she stared at him. "I also remembered how safe and secure I felt, but then I was afraid."
"Erica, you needn't be afraid of me. I would never hurt you or your children."
She stared at him trying to see the truth. "I believe you. I don't know why, but I do." Suddenly, they were both nervous. "Well, thank you again for the lovely flowers." She did not know what else to do, so she held out her hand.
He stared at her hand, then he took it, but instead of shaking it, he raised it to his lips and kissed it. Erica's heart pounded even more.
Bill wouldn't let go of her hand. "I have another confession to make."
She swallowed. "And what's that?"
Instead of answering her, he came closer, and still feeling confident, he raised her chin. Her eyes closed and then …
"Mommy, can I have some ice cream? Oh…who are you?"
Erica backed up, Bill dropped her hand. Taking a deep breath, Erica replied, "Sweetie, come here for a minute. I want you to meet a friend from Metropolis. He's a good friend. Bill Anderson, this is Lena, my daughter."
"Hello, Lena. It's nice to meet you." Bill was polite. He loved kids and being a divorced man with no children he was happy just to meet her. He held out his hand.
Lena glanced at her Mother. Erica nodded her Ok. Lena held out her hand. "Hello, Mr. Bill."
Erica actually smiled. So did Bill.
"Hello, Lena."
~o~o~
Meanwhile, in Gotham City, Wayne Towers:
Bruce Wayne was tired of his crazy schedule. He was never home. Selina made that patently clear just last night. He had given him a tongue lashing about them not being able to be together like she wanted, meaning that they hadn't had sex in almost a week.
Selina was worried about their relationship and if things didn't change, she would actually have to consider breaking their engagement. She was not going to marry a man who did not have his priorities in order. She would not appear in second or third in his life.
Bruce looked up when a knock came at the door. It was Selina. He stood up and came over to her. "I wasn't expecting to see you."
"Well, that makes me feel good, Bruce." She slipped off her jacket and went over to the table and poured herself a drink.
"Honey, I didn't mean that. Of course, it's wonderful to see you," Bruce said hoping to appease her. He couldn't lose her, he couldn't. He watched as she sat down and sipped her drink.
He sat down beside her. "I have news."
"What is it?" She asked, but it sounded as if she didn't care at all.
"I agree with you, Selina, and I've hired a few top executives to take over some my responsibilities at Wayne Enterprises, and …"
She stopped him. "That's nice, Bruce, but what about this rumor that you're planning to buy LexCorp? With Lex in jail, that may be difficult, don't you think?"
"No, not really; his lawyers contacted me about the sale."
"That's surprising. Lex has other companies that may stay afloat, but LexCorp is his baby. He's had it long before his Father died," Selina said.
"That's true and I think that is the reason they contacted me. I'm sure Lex can't support the idea that his company may go under without him being here for five years or more, so I'm taking it from him."
Selina reached for her drink. "I'm happy for you Bruce," she said and took a sip. "I suppose you'll be in the thick of the sale, like always."
"No, my lawyers will handle everything." She turned her to face him. "I want things to change. With these new executives I just hired, we're talking days of free time that we can be together, no space station updates for a while all of it will be handled by someone else, well except for the other job, of course.
"Truly Bruce? I want to believe you, honestly I do. I hope this isn't just a temporary fix and you turn back into your old ways of ignoring me," Selina said hoping that it was so.
"I've missed you, Selina, and no, this is not a temporary fix." Pulling her closer, he closed his eyes enjoying her in his arms. "I'm so glad you're here. I never want to argue with you. I hate it."
She grinned against his chest loving being in his arms. "I hate it too."
Sighing, he kissed her hair. All he wanted right at this particular time was Selina in his arms, available to him, ready for him. "I love you, Selina, always." He kissed her deeply, slanting his lips against hers, his tongue gaining access, as they both groaned enjoying their kisses like never before. Their kisses were different somehow. He felt it, and Selina felt it too.
He pulled her closer, causing Selina to moan into his mouth, and their tongues danced around each other. He ran his hands up and down her back. Her hands were in his hair, on his neck, and around his shoulders. They could not come close enough. He stopped suddenly, rested his forehead against hers and tried to regain a bit of restraint then took her hand. "Come with me."
"Bruce, where are we going?"
Instead of answering her, he pulled her to the other side of his office, picked up a remote control and the wall slowly slid open to reveal a large bed with white satin sheets.
Selina gasped, but she couldn't help herself, then she ran and jumped onto the bed, arms wide, hair flying, her dress rising up from her long legs. "Shame on you for not telling me about this before, but oh my, this is so nice!"
"I thought you would like it." Bruce thought she'd never looked more beautiful. He loosened his tie and removed his shirt, never taking his eyes from hers. She sat up onto her knees and undid her blouse then pulled it from her skirt. Her skirt was unzipped and slid down her thighs and down her legs. She had to lie down to realize that, but she didn't come up again but lay there waiting for him.
He undid his belt and slid his pants down his legs. Soon, they were staring at each other in their underwear, not saying anything.
Selina raised her arms to him. "I love you too," she whispered to him.
He slowly climbed onto the bed, entered her arms and held her close, and he realized that he was home. He leaned back and pushed her hair out of her eyes. This is what she meant … just me and her. He smiled at her and then he was kissing her again.
She pulled him within the circle of her arms and gave him everything. He needed her, and she needed him too.
Her bra and panties were removed gradually. His underwear also disappeared and then they were back into each other's arms, both sighing with the feeling of being this close to another human being.
Selina could not remember ever being so turned on. She was squirming on the bed. She needed to be closer to him. Bruce was staring at her with a passion that she had never seen before.
His hands were everywhere, smoothing over her breasts and tweaking her nipples, down her back, touching her thighs. Selina's hands were anything but still. She loved touching him. He was so smooth and powerful. She couldn't hold back the pleading sounds in her throat.
This is what matters, belonging to someone, needing that person more than anything else in the world.
Bruce and Selina realized this is it and in that moment, he was inside of her loving her with everything in him. Yes, I love her, he thought. Always have. Inwardly smiling at that thought, he kissed her harder and then he began to move slowly at first, enjoying the feeling of her muscles tightening around his length, the friction, the flow, it was unbelievable.
"Oh yes, Bruce, yes!" Selina cried, her head thrown back on the pillow her lips open on a moan. It felt fantastic.
Bruce buried his face in her neck, clutching her closer to him if that were possible, and then it happened.
Selina surrendered to his touch. Then with a cry, she screamed his name and shattered in his arms. It was heaven on earth. He pulled her closer as he also felt that little death that only they could handle.
Together.
~o~o~
Early evening, downtown Metropolis:
Lucy was in her car driving back to Metropolis for her date with Ron. After speaking to her Father and having a heated debate about that, she called Ron asking him to join her downtown instead of having him come to the base to meet her Father. She was furious with him for having these doubts about Ron when he hadn't even met him.
Now, she was determined to live her life the way she wanted to, which meant dating whomever she wanted, pursuing interior design as a career and having a good time. She was almost twenty-five years of age, a college graduate, and old enough to know her own mind. Lucy knew what she wanted from life and what she wanted in a man, if she were lucky enough to find the right one.
After parking her car, she spotted him and he was waiting for her. He hurried over to her and opened the car door. She had to admit he looked very nice this evening. He was wearing a suit and tie and damn he smelled good. "Hi," she said breathlessly.
"Hi yourself," he whispered as he stared at her. She was pretty. Her beautiful red hair was down pulled to the side and hung long and flowing about her shoulder. Wearing a stunning black dress with high heels and her makeup was flawless, he couldn't help but stare. "You look lovely Lucy."
"Thanks, Ron." He took her hand. Feeling awkward, she said, "So, we're eating at Alonzo's tonight? I love this place, but I haven't eaten here in a while."
"Yes, our reservation is in fifteen minutes, so we have plenty of time to talk." He then held up the restaurant buzzer and took a seat outside. It was still warm for early fall. Lucy had brought a light jacket. "Are you warm enough, we can wait inside if you want?"
"No, I'm fine." Feeling he should know, she turned to him. "Ron, my Father was not happy about our date tonight." At his frown, she explained. "He can be a nightmare as far as Lois and me dating anyone. It has nothing to do with you personally, but he just feels this need to control our lives every now and then. He has gotten better since Lois and I both turned twenty-one, but I suppose he'll always be that way."
"It's Ok. I understand. My Mom is the same way about the girls that I date."
"Really?" Lucy chuckled. "Well, add that to the list of single parents who don't know when to let go of their children so that they can make their own mistakes."
He frowned, misunderstanding. "Do you think I'm a mistake?"
"Of course not," she replied then she had to smile. "You are the best decision I have ever made." She paused. "I mean that."
Relieved, he took her hand again. "I feel the same way." His eyes moved over her face. "When we met at Lois's wedding reception, I was afraid to get my hopes up. I told myself - behave yourself, don't act like an idiot, be cool, and please don't let her see you sweat."
Lucy chuckled. "You were sweating? When was that?"
"When I walked you to your hotel room; I wanted to kiss you so bad."
Lucy's eyes bugged out. "You did?"
"You can't be surprised. You are the most beautiful woman I have ever met. You should be kissed every day, day after day, night after night, for the rest of your life, over, and over again." And with that, he slowly lowered his head, both their eyes closed, and then …
The buzzer went off.
They sighed and headed into dinner.
Later that night, after a lovely dinner, full of talk of how much fun they had at the wedding, their careers and of course how much they had in common, they were on the sidewalk heading back to her car when she got a phone call. It was Clark.
"Hi, Clark, what's up?" Lucy asked.
"Have you seen Lois this evening? She's not answering her cellphone and she's not at home."
Lucy's heart began to beat faster. She decided to stay calm as not to scare him. "No, I haven't. She called me earlier this evening about going to the mall to shop for things for the condo. Maybe she lost track of time or … she …" She couldn't say anymore.
"I see, I'll check the mall not from the condo and call you. If you hear from her, have her call me. I'll find her, don't worry. Bye Lucy."
"Bye Clark." She hung up.
"Lucy what's wrong?" Ron asked.
Lucy turned to him with tears waiting to happen. "My sister is missing."
Ron didn't hesitate. "Get in; I'll drive, while you call your Father."
~o~o~
Clark hung up and immediately called John at the station. As he made the call, he headed to the mall and searched the parking garage. He found her car on the third level. It looked fine, but then he spotted some towels and sheets inside the trunk, but then he saw something that made his heart literally stop. It was a pregnancy test. "Oh, Lois."
"Think, Clark, think," he muttered to himself. "Where could she be?"
Then he got a call. It was Lois. Relieved beyond measure, he asked, "Lois, where are you?"
"Mr. Kent, I have your partner." It was a man's voice.
"If you hurt her …" He couldn't finish.
"Listen carefully, Mr. Kent. If you want to see her alive, you will do as I say. Go to the Metropolis mall. Her car is on the third level. Once there, you will look underneath her car just above the passenger side wheel, there you will see an envelope. Open it and read the note to me."
"I'm at her car now." He found the envelope and then read the typed written note. "'Come to 10th Avenue and South Street. Then you will head to the second floor, the first door on your right, open it and stay there until you someone comes to see you. Do not, and I repeat, do not contact the police.'" Clark finished reading then note, then he frowned. "I know this address."
"I thought you would remember," the kidnapper said. "You have ten minutes." Then the phone went silent.
Clark looked up when several police cars pulled into the garage. It was John with his partner and a cruiser that had been close to the mall. Fuming and ready to hit something, he handed John the note. "I just got the call." He paused for a moment. "I know that address." Then he thought about it. "The kidnapper knows I'm Superman, but he said Mr. Kent while speaking to me."
"But besides the League, your family, and Luthor, which hopefully, that memory is gone, so who else knows?" John asked.
"Anyone Luthor could have been in contact with during those months he had all those privileges," Clark replied.
"So, he could have told anyone." He shook his head. "Did he say why he took Lois? That may give us some clues," John asked.
"No, he didn't, but I have to go. You can't follow me, John, at least not right away."
"Of course, but we should head over there just in case. We'll be close by, Ok?" He touched his shoulder. John was so worried about him. He may be invincible, but John could see how upset he was. His eyes weren't focused on anything, his chest was heaving, as if he couldn't catch his breath and his hands were at his sides making fists over and over again. "Are you Ok?"
Clark tried to calm down but his heart was beating entirely too fast. "I want you to … contact General Lane at the base, Lois's Father, and give him that address. I think I know who the kidnapper is." He paused for a moment. "I have to go," he said then he took off.
John then called Lois's Father as instructed, and then he called his friends to join him at the address left by the kidnapper, to be discreet and wait for him to make a move.
~o~o~
Two minutes, later at the kidnapper's location:
Clark stood outside the building where months ago, he had walked into a trap. He would never forget that General Lane and Lieutenant Jones were there waiting for him with green kryptonite, waiting to catch him or kill him. He was still unsure what they had planned for him.
Lieutenant Jones must have escaped the base somehow or maybe they had let him go, he wasn't sure. He supposed he should have followed up on that, but he had trusted the General to take care of Jones, but that apparently did not happen. He then decided to shut off his phone. He didn't want any distractions right now.
He peered through the walls, although it was a complete waste of time. Lead-lined walls were always a problem for him. He entered the building and stood very still. Briefly closing his eyes, his sensitive hearing was put to the test again. He listened for her heartbeat, and again, it failed to come to him.
Clark reached the second floor and opened the door as instructed and Lois was there strapped to a chair with a gag in her mouth. Vigorously shaking her head as if to say not to come any closer, but it was too late. He immediately felt the effects of the green kryptonite then he fell to floor at her feet. He looked up briefly, then reached out to her hoping to touch her, but the effects were stronger than anything he had ever felt before.
A minute later, one man walked in. It was Peter Jones. Kneeling down to the man on the floor, he turned him over and he was gasping for breath, his eyes opened for a brief moment, without seeing anything, and his chest was moving up and down hoping to breathe but finding it difficult.
"Well, Mrs. Kent, I see your husband is a bit incapacitated at the moment." Lois's eyes went wide. "Yes, I know he's your husband. Luthor told me that part of the truth and then he asked me to do him a favor. I said I would, but of course, I wanted something different. Luthor wants your husband gone. I need to die. So, do you see my dilemma?"
Peter stroked his chin deep in thought. "But then I thought I'll kill both birds with one stone." He stood up and walked over to the green kryptonite from underneath a metal table hidden from Clark. He had been so focused on finding his wife, that he apparently hadn't seen it. "It won't be long now, Mrs. Kent." He set the green-K down right beside her husband. Clark moaned loudly then, barely able to breathe.
Lois bowed her head, shoulders shaking, then she closed her eyes to stem the tide of tears, but it wasn't helping. They flowed down her cheeks like an unending flood.
~o~o~
Meanwhile, outside the warehouse:
John was surrounded by his friends. The League members had just arrived ready to head inside. John tried to reach Clark, but his cellphone was apparently turned off.
"John, what are we waiting for? We have to go ... NOW!" That was Bruce. "Clark probably isn't thinking clearly, and you know it's a trap."
"I know, but the kidnapper said no police," John said.
"We are not the police, John," Diana said. "Let's go guys."
John spoke to his partner and the two patrolmen who had arrived in a cruiser. "Alright, wait here unless the kidnapper comes out. You have his description. He may have a gun, so be careful."
They headed in being as low as possible, but then Peter thought he heard something. He stood just behind Lois and put a knife to her throat and waited.
The door opened.
Peter held the knife closer. "Don't move or she dies."
TBC!
~o~o~
Song Inspiration: Because You Loved Me, Celine Dion.
A/N: Laney, time out! *goes and faces the wall* Oh, Celine, love this song! *crying* I'm so, so sorry. Laney is a horrible, horrible person. I hate cliffhangers. I so loved writing the couple's scenes, but Lois and Clark, whimpers and cries foul of Peter Jones. What the hell is he doing out of jail? I'll answer that question in the next update, but you won't have to wait long; it's written. Please review and thank you so much for reading. Until next time, thanks again.
Author: Babette babettew54
Canon: Superman (MOS)
Pairings; Characters: Clark/Lois, Martha Kent, Sam Lane, Lucy Lane, Lex Luthor, Bruce Wayne, Original Character(s)
Rating: M
Word Count: 5,400
Summary: Lois couldn’t decide whether to ask him out or overwhelm him with questions hopefully to finish the ‘Story of the Century.’
Spoilers: None. It is just speculation about hand touching in the trailer and what it could mean for Clois. The story continues with more speculation about Clois and the upcoming sequel.
Disclaimer: DC Comics/Warner Bros. Entertainment owns these characters. This is strictly for my own amusement.
Author's Notes: In this next chapter, Erica is shocked to find Bill on her doorstep, Ron and Lucy have their first date, Bruce and Selina finally get some precious time alone, and later Lois goes missing and Clark is living his worst nightmare. Read on.
Updated: Click the banner to see more character pictures!
X-posted: (FFN); (A03)
Previously:
ACT I: The Only Thing That Matters
( Chapter 1)( Chapter 2)( Chapter 3)( Chapter 4)( Chapter 5)
( Chapter 6)( Chapter 7)(Chapter 8)( Chapter 9)( Chapter 10)
( Chapter 11)( Chapter 12)( Chapter 13) ( Chapter 14)( Chapter 15)
ACT II: All I’ve Ever Wanted
( Chapter 16)( Chapter 17)( Chapter 18)( Chapter 19)( Chapter 20)
( Chapter 21)( Chapter 22)( Chapter 23)
ACT III: For the Love of You
( Chapter 24)( Chapter 25)
Chapter 26: You Gave Me Wings
Hours later, Metropolis Police Headquarters:
After spending the whole day at police headquarters and answering more questions pertaining to their statements, it appeared as if the brothers had spoken the truth. John was not happy about the results of his findings. The prosecutor was not happy about it either, especially when the two brothers revealed they had no idea where the other scientists were located.
The prosecutor had made a decision. They would not be charged. She had seen enough. Their whereabouts over the past few months had been confirmed, meaning they had not left town since the clone war. Their phone records as well as their computer activity including emails, were also checked out. Bill and Alan were released from police custody.
Once outside, Alan was extremely relieved to be a free man, that he smacked his brother on the back. "It's over, it's truly over?" Alan asked as they hailed a cab.
"No, it's just begun," Bill thoughtfully replied, thinking about Erica.
"I know what you're thinking. I've seen that look on your face every day for months now. Are you going to see her?"
"I don't think she would want to see me," Bill replied.
"I think she will and once she finds out what happened in the warehouse, she'll fall into your arms." Alan was only half-joking.
Bill grinned. "Not likely."
"It's worth a shot." He watched him closely. "Don't give up without even trying."
Once in the cab, Bill was thinking the same thing. "You're right. Cabbie, stop the car." He quickly got out, his decision made. "You head home and I'll call you. I'm going to the airport."
Alan smiled. "Good luck, brother." They shook hands.
"Thanks, Alan."
~o~o~
Meanwhile, in upstate New York:
Erica was downstairs giving last minute instructions to the movers. She felt confident and optimistic about the future. After seeing the news about Bill's release from police custody, she felt sure that everything would be alright.
She did not know why she felt that way considering her recent past, but there was no point feeling down and dejected. She touched her stomach feeling hopeful. Her nightmares had stopped, at least for now, she had her health, her babies' health and her family was well.
A little while later, she received a text from Clark. About an hour ago, Bill had left town on his way to New York. She closed the phone not knowing what to think.
It was just after the evening meal when her doorbell rang. She was at the top of the stairs and watched as Ellen, their housekeeper opened the front door. She put her hand over her mouth as Bill walked in with red roses in his arms.
He looked very handsome wearing a blue shirt, a sport coat, slacks and a shy smile. He looked up and their gazes locked. His heartbeat accelerated at seeing her again plus the fact that she was alright and well warmed his heart.
Ellen saw their looks but did not know what to think. "Sir, may I help you?" She asked.
"It's alright Ellen, I know this man," Erica said as slowly walked down the stairs.
"Yes, madam," Ellen said and left them alone.
He watched as Erica came over to greet him. She was lovely to him. Her eyes were what drew him to her. They were a lovely shade of green, her complexion was flawless, her body was stunning and of course the swelling in the stomach confirmed that she was pregnant.
Suddenly, he was at a loss as to what to say. Of course, she was stunned to see him too. He should have called first, but he was afraid she would hang up on him. He was frozen in place. Erica was also frozen still tongue-tied by his sudden appearance in her home.
He had to know. "Do you want me to leave?"
"Well, I …" Erica was still stunned.
"I know. These are for you." He held out the flowers.
Erica stared at the flowers then at his face. She came closer then she took the flowers.
"Thank you, they're lovely."
"Well, now that I see that you're alright, I'll go now," Bill turned toward the door, hoping she would prevent him from leaving. He slowly opened the door.
Erica could not let him leave. "Wait, don't go."
Closing his eyes for a moment, he turned to her. He came closer. "Are you truly alright? I mean …"
"Yes, I'm alright, but it's been tough these past few months." Looking down, she touched her stomach.
Bill was just outraged. "I can't tell you how much I hate him for what he did to you, to all of us."
Erica was curious about that statement then she needed to learn more. "I'll just put these in a vase. We can talk in here. Come with me?"
Inwardly smiling, Bill followed her into the kitchen where he watched as she put the flowers in a vase after adding water. She then placed them on the breakfast table.
She turned to him. "So, the police let you go?" She sounded surprised.
"You think I'm guilty, don't you?" Bill was not surprised she would feel that way. Everyone thought they were responsible for the clone war.
She certainly wasn't sure about that, but then her dream of him came into her mind and she actually believed the dream, the feelings were still there then she decided to trust her instincts. "No, I don't think you're guilty."
Immensely relieved, he suddenly realized that there were boxes, lots of boxes piled up there in the kitchen and in the hallway. "Are you moving?"
"Yes, we're moving to Florida in a few days."
Bill wasn't expecting that. "Oh, I see." He seemed upset.
"Would you like something to drink?" She turned to the coffee maker. "Why didn't you call become coming here?"
"I was afraid you would hang up on me."
"Well, I can't say whether I would have or not. But seeing you again after everything that happened in that place, it feels really weird."
He grinned. "I know what you mean. We couldn't have spent more than ten minutes together, but I felt I had to see you again to be sure you were Ok."
Erica was still intrigued by the man. "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"How did you find me?" Erica wanted to know.
"Well, your name is very rare. It wasn't difficult."
"I see." She turned from him. The water was ready for the coffee pot. "I can't have coffee as you can see." She touched her stomach again.
The next thing she knew, he was standing right beside her. "I'll do that."
Erica was shocked at his nearness. Her heart pounded like never before.
"I have a confession to make," Bill said as she watched her put some distance between them.
"What is it?" Erica asked as watched him closely.
"The entire time I was hiding and wondering if I would have my life back, I thought of you, how you were, if you were safe and happy." He turned to her. "Are you happy, Erica?"
She turned from him and walked over to the French doors then looked up at the sky. He came up behind her. He dared to touch her shoulder.
Erica closed her eyes at his touch. "Am I happy? I try not to ask that question too often."
"I know. Happiness is just a word. It doesn't mean anything." He squeezed her shoulder.
Erica frowned as she turned to him. "Why can't we have what we want? I thought I was happy with him, but I wasn't, not really. It was all a façade but I know the truth now."
"What truth is that?"
"Honesty and trust are very important in a relationship. If you believe in someone and trust someone with your heart, then love will come, and maybe some fun too."
"I agree." He paused. "I want you to trust me, Erica. I want to get to know you and I want you to know me."
"But why? Like you said we were together only a few minutes." Erica did not believe this was happening.
"I don't know why but this, you and me, it feels right. For some strange reason, I want to protect you and your family. I know you went through hell." He paused then decided to tell her the truth. "I know what Lex tried to do to you."
She frowned. "You know, but …"
"Erica, I saved you from him." At her surprise, he continued. "I saw him carry you upstairs, placed you inside a growth pod, but I stopped him from giving you something through a syringe. I talked him out of hurting you and convinced him to leave Paul behind with you."
"You did that … for me?" Erica was incredulous. "But why?" She asked again.
He shook his head at her. "Isn't it clear? Because I care what happens to you. Luthor is an animal. He did not deserve you."
Erica was stunned by his statement then she decided to tell him about her dream. "I dreamed of you."
Now it was Bill's turn to be stunned. He smiled at her, and Erica was transfixed. "You did?"
"Yeah, I did. I was in Florida on the beach with my children and you were there. You spoke to me. I didn't remember you at first but you mentioned the warehouse and then I remembered. I awoke just after that." She paused as she stared at him. "I also remembered how safe and secure I felt, but then I was afraid."
"Erica, you needn't be afraid of me. I would never hurt you or your children."
She stared at him trying to see the truth. "I believe you. I don't know why, but I do." Suddenly, they were both nervous. "Well, thank you again for the lovely flowers." She did not know what else to do, so she held out her hand.
He stared at her hand, then he took it, but instead of shaking it, he raised it to his lips and kissed it. Erica's heart pounded even more.
Bill wouldn't let go of her hand. "I have another confession to make."
She swallowed. "And what's that?"
Instead of answering her, he came closer, and still feeling confident, he raised her chin. Her eyes closed and then …
"Mommy, can I have some ice cream? Oh…who are you?"
Erica backed up, Bill dropped her hand. Taking a deep breath, Erica replied, "Sweetie, come here for a minute. I want you to meet a friend from Metropolis. He's a good friend. Bill Anderson, this is Lena, my daughter."
"Hello, Lena. It's nice to meet you." Bill was polite. He loved kids and being a divorced man with no children he was happy just to meet her. He held out his hand.
Lena glanced at her Mother. Erica nodded her Ok. Lena held out her hand. "Hello, Mr. Bill."
Erica actually smiled. So did Bill.
"Hello, Lena."
~o~o~
Meanwhile, in Gotham City, Wayne Towers:
Bruce Wayne was tired of his crazy schedule. He was never home. Selina made that patently clear just last night. He had given him a tongue lashing about them not being able to be together like she wanted, meaning that they hadn't had sex in almost a week.
Selina was worried about their relationship and if things didn't change, she would actually have to consider breaking their engagement. She was not going to marry a man who did not have his priorities in order. She would not appear in second or third in his life.
Bruce looked up when a knock came at the door. It was Selina. He stood up and came over to her. "I wasn't expecting to see you."
"Well, that makes me feel good, Bruce." She slipped off her jacket and went over to the table and poured herself a drink.
"Honey, I didn't mean that. Of course, it's wonderful to see you," Bruce said hoping to appease her. He couldn't lose her, he couldn't. He watched as she sat down and sipped her drink.
He sat down beside her. "I have news."
"What is it?" She asked, but it sounded as if she didn't care at all.
"I agree with you, Selina, and I've hired a few top executives to take over some my responsibilities at Wayne Enterprises, and …"
She stopped him. "That's nice, Bruce, but what about this rumor that you're planning to buy LexCorp? With Lex in jail, that may be difficult, don't you think?"
"No, not really; his lawyers contacted me about the sale."
"That's surprising. Lex has other companies that may stay afloat, but LexCorp is his baby. He's had it long before his Father died," Selina said.
"That's true and I think that is the reason they contacted me. I'm sure Lex can't support the idea that his company may go under without him being here for five years or more, so I'm taking it from him."
Selina reached for her drink. "I'm happy for you Bruce," she said and took a sip. "I suppose you'll be in the thick of the sale, like always."
"No, my lawyers will handle everything." She turned her to face him. "I want things to change. With these new executives I just hired, we're talking days of free time that we can be together, no space station updates for a while all of it will be handled by someone else, well except for the other job, of course.
"Truly Bruce? I want to believe you, honestly I do. I hope this isn't just a temporary fix and you turn back into your old ways of ignoring me," Selina said hoping that it was so.
"I've missed you, Selina, and no, this is not a temporary fix." Pulling her closer, he closed his eyes enjoying her in his arms. "I'm so glad you're here. I never want to argue with you. I hate it."
She grinned against his chest loving being in his arms. "I hate it too."
Sighing, he kissed her hair. All he wanted right at this particular time was Selina in his arms, available to him, ready for him. "I love you, Selina, always." He kissed her deeply, slanting his lips against hers, his tongue gaining access, as they both groaned enjoying their kisses like never before. Their kisses were different somehow. He felt it, and Selina felt it too.
He pulled her closer, causing Selina to moan into his mouth, and their tongues danced around each other. He ran his hands up and down her back. Her hands were in his hair, on his neck, and around his shoulders. They could not come close enough. He stopped suddenly, rested his forehead against hers and tried to regain a bit of restraint then took her hand. "Come with me."
"Bruce, where are we going?"
Instead of answering her, he pulled her to the other side of his office, picked up a remote control and the wall slowly slid open to reveal a large bed with white satin sheets.
Selina gasped, but she couldn't help herself, then she ran and jumped onto the bed, arms wide, hair flying, her dress rising up from her long legs. "Shame on you for not telling me about this before, but oh my, this is so nice!"
"I thought you would like it." Bruce thought she'd never looked more beautiful. He loosened his tie and removed his shirt, never taking his eyes from hers. She sat up onto her knees and undid her blouse then pulled it from her skirt. Her skirt was unzipped and slid down her thighs and down her legs. She had to lie down to realize that, but she didn't come up again but lay there waiting for him.
He undid his belt and slid his pants down his legs. Soon, they were staring at each other in their underwear, not saying anything.
Selina raised her arms to him. "I love you too," she whispered to him.
He slowly climbed onto the bed, entered her arms and held her close, and he realized that he was home. He leaned back and pushed her hair out of her eyes. This is what she meant … just me and her. He smiled at her and then he was kissing her again.
She pulled him within the circle of her arms and gave him everything. He needed her, and she needed him too.
Her bra and panties were removed gradually. His underwear also disappeared and then they were back into each other's arms, both sighing with the feeling of being this close to another human being.
Selina could not remember ever being so turned on. She was squirming on the bed. She needed to be closer to him. Bruce was staring at her with a passion that she had never seen before.
His hands were everywhere, smoothing over her breasts and tweaking her nipples, down her back, touching her thighs. Selina's hands were anything but still. She loved touching him. He was so smooth and powerful. She couldn't hold back the pleading sounds in her throat.
This is what matters, belonging to someone, needing that person more than anything else in the world.
Bruce and Selina realized this is it and in that moment, he was inside of her loving her with everything in him. Yes, I love her, he thought. Always have. Inwardly smiling at that thought, he kissed her harder and then he began to move slowly at first, enjoying the feeling of her muscles tightening around his length, the friction, the flow, it was unbelievable.
"Oh yes, Bruce, yes!" Selina cried, her head thrown back on the pillow her lips open on a moan. It felt fantastic.
Bruce buried his face in her neck, clutching her closer to him if that were possible, and then it happened.
Selina surrendered to his touch. Then with a cry, she screamed his name and shattered in his arms. It was heaven on earth. He pulled her closer as he also felt that little death that only they could handle.
Together.
~o~o~
Early evening, downtown Metropolis:
Lucy was in her car driving back to Metropolis for her date with Ron. After speaking to her Father and having a heated debate about that, she called Ron asking him to join her downtown instead of having him come to the base to meet her Father. She was furious with him for having these doubts about Ron when he hadn't even met him.
Now, she was determined to live her life the way she wanted to, which meant dating whomever she wanted, pursuing interior design as a career and having a good time. She was almost twenty-five years of age, a college graduate, and old enough to know her own mind. Lucy knew what she wanted from life and what she wanted in a man, if she were lucky enough to find the right one.
After parking her car, she spotted him and he was waiting for her. He hurried over to her and opened the car door. She had to admit he looked very nice this evening. He was wearing a suit and tie and damn he smelled good. "Hi," she said breathlessly.
"Hi yourself," he whispered as he stared at her. She was pretty. Her beautiful red hair was down pulled to the side and hung long and flowing about her shoulder. Wearing a stunning black dress with high heels and her makeup was flawless, he couldn't help but stare. "You look lovely Lucy."
"Thanks, Ron." He took her hand. Feeling awkward, she said, "So, we're eating at Alonzo's tonight? I love this place, but I haven't eaten here in a while."
"Yes, our reservation is in fifteen minutes, so we have plenty of time to talk." He then held up the restaurant buzzer and took a seat outside. It was still warm for early fall. Lucy had brought a light jacket. "Are you warm enough, we can wait inside if you want?"
"No, I'm fine." Feeling he should know, she turned to him. "Ron, my Father was not happy about our date tonight." At his frown, she explained. "He can be a nightmare as far as Lois and me dating anyone. It has nothing to do with you personally, but he just feels this need to control our lives every now and then. He has gotten better since Lois and I both turned twenty-one, but I suppose he'll always be that way."
"It's Ok. I understand. My Mom is the same way about the girls that I date."
"Really?" Lucy chuckled. "Well, add that to the list of single parents who don't know when to let go of their children so that they can make their own mistakes."
He frowned, misunderstanding. "Do you think I'm a mistake?"
"Of course not," she replied then she had to smile. "You are the best decision I have ever made." She paused. "I mean that."
Relieved, he took her hand again. "I feel the same way." His eyes moved over her face. "When we met at Lois's wedding reception, I was afraid to get my hopes up. I told myself - behave yourself, don't act like an idiot, be cool, and please don't let her see you sweat."
Lucy chuckled. "You were sweating? When was that?"
"When I walked you to your hotel room; I wanted to kiss you so bad."
Lucy's eyes bugged out. "You did?"
"You can't be surprised. You are the most beautiful woman I have ever met. You should be kissed every day, day after day, night after night, for the rest of your life, over, and over again." And with that, he slowly lowered his head, both their eyes closed, and then …
The buzzer went off.
They sighed and headed into dinner.
Later that night, after a lovely dinner, full of talk of how much fun they had at the wedding, their careers and of course how much they had in common, they were on the sidewalk heading back to her car when she got a phone call. It was Clark.
"Hi, Clark, what's up?" Lucy asked.
"Have you seen Lois this evening? She's not answering her cellphone and she's not at home."
Lucy's heart began to beat faster. She decided to stay calm as not to scare him. "No, I haven't. She called me earlier this evening about going to the mall to shop for things for the condo. Maybe she lost track of time or … she …" She couldn't say anymore.
"I see, I'll check the mall not from the condo and call you. If you hear from her, have her call me. I'll find her, don't worry. Bye Lucy."
"Bye Clark." She hung up.
"Lucy what's wrong?" Ron asked.
Lucy turned to him with tears waiting to happen. "My sister is missing."
Ron didn't hesitate. "Get in; I'll drive, while you call your Father."
~o~o~
Clark hung up and immediately called John at the station. As he made the call, he headed to the mall and searched the parking garage. He found her car on the third level. It looked fine, but then he spotted some towels and sheets inside the trunk, but then he saw something that made his heart literally stop. It was a pregnancy test. "Oh, Lois."
"Think, Clark, think," he muttered to himself. "Where could she be?"
Then he got a call. It was Lois. Relieved beyond measure, he asked, "Lois, where are you?"
"Mr. Kent, I have your partner." It was a man's voice.
"If you hurt her …" He couldn't finish.
"Listen carefully, Mr. Kent. If you want to see her alive, you will do as I say. Go to the Metropolis mall. Her car is on the third level. Once there, you will look underneath her car just above the passenger side wheel, there you will see an envelope. Open it and read the note to me."
"I'm at her car now." He found the envelope and then read the typed written note. "'Come to 10th Avenue and South Street. Then you will head to the second floor, the first door on your right, open it and stay there until you someone comes to see you. Do not, and I repeat, do not contact the police.'" Clark finished reading then note, then he frowned. "I know this address."
"I thought you would remember," the kidnapper said. "You have ten minutes." Then the phone went silent.
Clark looked up when several police cars pulled into the garage. It was John with his partner and a cruiser that had been close to the mall. Fuming and ready to hit something, he handed John the note. "I just got the call." He paused for a moment. "I know that address." Then he thought about it. "The kidnapper knows I'm Superman, but he said Mr. Kent while speaking to me."
"But besides the League, your family, and Luthor, which hopefully, that memory is gone, so who else knows?" John asked.
"Anyone Luthor could have been in contact with during those months he had all those privileges," Clark replied.
"So, he could have told anyone." He shook his head. "Did he say why he took Lois? That may give us some clues," John asked.
"No, he didn't, but I have to go. You can't follow me, John, at least not right away."
"Of course, but we should head over there just in case. We'll be close by, Ok?" He touched his shoulder. John was so worried about him. He may be invincible, but John could see how upset he was. His eyes weren't focused on anything, his chest was heaving, as if he couldn't catch his breath and his hands were at his sides making fists over and over again. "Are you Ok?"
Clark tried to calm down but his heart was beating entirely too fast. "I want you to … contact General Lane at the base, Lois's Father, and give him that address. I think I know who the kidnapper is." He paused for a moment. "I have to go," he said then he took off.
John then called Lois's Father as instructed, and then he called his friends to join him at the address left by the kidnapper, to be discreet and wait for him to make a move.
~o~o~
Two minutes, later at the kidnapper's location:
Clark stood outside the building where months ago, he had walked into a trap. He would never forget that General Lane and Lieutenant Jones were there waiting for him with green kryptonite, waiting to catch him or kill him. He was still unsure what they had planned for him.
Lieutenant Jones must have escaped the base somehow or maybe they had let him go, he wasn't sure. He supposed he should have followed up on that, but he had trusted the General to take care of Jones, but that apparently did not happen. He then decided to shut off his phone. He didn't want any distractions right now.
He peered through the walls, although it was a complete waste of time. Lead-lined walls were always a problem for him. He entered the building and stood very still. Briefly closing his eyes, his sensitive hearing was put to the test again. He listened for her heartbeat, and again, it failed to come to him.
Clark reached the second floor and opened the door as instructed and Lois was there strapped to a chair with a gag in her mouth. Vigorously shaking her head as if to say not to come any closer, but it was too late. He immediately felt the effects of the green kryptonite then he fell to floor at her feet. He looked up briefly, then reached out to her hoping to touch her, but the effects were stronger than anything he had ever felt before.
A minute later, one man walked in. It was Peter Jones. Kneeling down to the man on the floor, he turned him over and he was gasping for breath, his eyes opened for a brief moment, without seeing anything, and his chest was moving up and down hoping to breathe but finding it difficult.
"Well, Mrs. Kent, I see your husband is a bit incapacitated at the moment." Lois's eyes went wide. "Yes, I know he's your husband. Luthor told me that part of the truth and then he asked me to do him a favor. I said I would, but of course, I wanted something different. Luthor wants your husband gone. I need to die. So, do you see my dilemma?"
Peter stroked his chin deep in thought. "But then I thought I'll kill both birds with one stone." He stood up and walked over to the green kryptonite from underneath a metal table hidden from Clark. He had been so focused on finding his wife, that he apparently hadn't seen it. "It won't be long now, Mrs. Kent." He set the green-K down right beside her husband. Clark moaned loudly then, barely able to breathe.
Lois bowed her head, shoulders shaking, then she closed her eyes to stem the tide of tears, but it wasn't helping. They flowed down her cheeks like an unending flood.
~o~o~
Meanwhile, outside the warehouse:
John was surrounded by his friends. The League members had just arrived ready to head inside. John tried to reach Clark, but his cellphone was apparently turned off.
"John, what are we waiting for? We have to go ... NOW!" That was Bruce. "Clark probably isn't thinking clearly, and you know it's a trap."
"I know, but the kidnapper said no police," John said.
"We are not the police, John," Diana said. "Let's go guys."
John spoke to his partner and the two patrolmen who had arrived in a cruiser. "Alright, wait here unless the kidnapper comes out. You have his description. He may have a gun, so be careful."
They headed in being as low as possible, but then Peter thought he heard something. He stood just behind Lois and put a knife to her throat and waited.
The door opened.
Peter held the knife closer. "Don't move or she dies."
TBC!
~o~o~
Song Inspiration: Because You Loved Me, Celine Dion.
A/N: Laney, time out! *goes and faces the wall* Oh, Celine, love this song! *crying* I'm so, so sorry. Laney is a horrible, horrible person. I hate cliffhangers. I so loved writing the couple's scenes, but Lois and Clark, whimpers and cries foul of Peter Jones. What the hell is he doing out of jail? I'll answer that question in the next update, but you won't have to wait long; it's written. Please review and thank you so much for reading. Until next time, thanks again.