Fic: Now or Never (7/?)
Title: Now or Never (7/?)
Author: Babettew54 babettew54
Category: Superman Returns
Characters: Lois Lane/Clark Kent/Kal-El, Perry White, Lex Luthor
Rating: M
Summary: They’ve had so many chances to make it work, but could there really be one more?
Words: 3,400
Disclaimer: DC Comics/WB Entertainment owns. No profit is being made from this story; this is strictly for my own amusement.
Author’s Notes: In this chapter, Luthor’s plans begin to unravel as Clark comes face to face with a new foe! Also Jason and Clark slowly grow closer. Please read and review. Thanks! :D
Banner by hanakt
Previously:
( Chapter 1)( Chapter 2)( Chapter 3)( Chapter 4)( Chapter 5)
( Chapter 6)
Chapter 7: Bizarro
Early morning, the next day, the DP bullpen:
Lois and Clark had come straight from the airport to the DP after their long overnight flight home. It was a Saturday morning and Jason was still at the sitters, but Lois would be picking him up in a few hours. Right now though, Perry wanted an update on the Luthor arrests both in Metropolis and in Nassau. The Luthor ‘clone’ and Superman’s obvious defection to the Luthor camp was on everyone’s lips, on all the news channels, on television, online and in the papers, but only a few knew the whole story and now Perry would know too.
Clark knocked on Perry’s door and entered without waiting for a response. “We’re back, Chief.”
“Come in, come in; I’ve been waiting for you,” Perry said as he waved them in.
Everyone took a seat then Lois spoke up. “We got your messages Chief, and we’ve seen the newsfeeds, videos and we’ve been online too.”
Perry chuckled. “I can just imagine the looks on your faces when you saw that news conference.”
“It was definitely a shock,” Clark said as he shook his head.
“Have you had a chance to speak to Superman? What did he say?” Perry asked dying to know.
“That thing, whatever it is, is also a clone,” Clark said.
“I suspected it because since I left you those messages, the ‘clone’ has been seen around town and he’s not the same as the first day he appeared. His complexion and facial features have changed, he’s uncoordinated, and when he speaks it’s almost childlike.”
“It sounds like Luthor got it all wrong because there’s only one Superman,” Lois said and smiled at her partner.
Perry couldn’t help but notice their intimate looks. “Is there something you want to tell me?”
“No, nothing, Chief,” Lois said and kept her mouth shut for a change.
Perry had his doubts. “So, tell me, I want to know all that went down in Nassau. Kent, you were the first one down there, so what happened?” Perry asked wanting to know all the details.
“Wait a minute; you knew Clark was already down there?” Lois asked her boss then turned back to face him. Clark had the decency to look guilty as he glanced at the ceiling.
“Of course; come on now Lois, with your history of getting into trouble I couldn’t just send you down there alone, besides I thought you knew he was there.” He gave them a sly grin. “Don’t you two ‘talk’ to each other?”
“Of course we do, Chief, it’s just, well ...” She glanced at Clark for help.
“We got our wires crossed this time, Chief,” Clark said and quirked a smile.
“Uh, huh,” Perry mumbled suspicious but he didn’t believe a word of it.
“Can we please stay on the subject at hand?” Lois asked weary of the conversation.
“Anyway, Chief, Lois was very helpful. She found Luthor on her own, contacted the authorities and Luthor was arrested shortly thereafter. I on the other hand, couldn’t find him,” Clark said and glanced at Lois.
Lois smiled at him thankful for the praise.
Perry tried not to roll his eyes and gave praise where it was due. “Good job, Lois.”
“Thanks, Chief,” Lois replied and couldn’t help but gloat just a little.
“So tell me, which one is the real Luthor?” Perry asked.
“The one in Nassau,” Clark replied.
“You’re sure?”
“Positive,” Lois replied.
“You know Chief it was Lois who figured out a way to tell the difference between them.”
“Really, what is it?”
“The real Lex was wearing a ‘green kryptonite’ ring and the clone wasn’t. You know he wouldn’t pass up a chance to destroy Superman.”
Perry stroked his chin. “Of course he wouldn’t.” He grinned at Lois. “That was pretty observant of you Lois.”
It wasn’t in Lois to be humble. “Yes it was.”
Perry and Clark had to laugh.
After a few moments, Perry shook his head. “Excellent work guys, so when can I get my front page story?” He asked and rubbed his hands together.
“In a few hours, Chief,” Lois said and chuckled at her boss.
“I’ll look for it then,” Perry said then his phone rang. He answered it but glanced at his star reporters. “Why are you two still here? Get to work,” he commanded then went back to his phone call.
~o~o~
As Lois and Clark headed back to their desks, Lois glanced at her watch. “Look at the time; I promised the sitter I’d pick Jason up at 10:00.”
“How is he doing, Lois, I mean, you know what I mean?”
“His special gifts haven’t been a problem, not yet anyway. It has been hard for him, but being around other children is good for him. The sitter I found is wonderful; she has three kids around Jason’s age, so he’s adjusting.”
“I’m glad, Lois. I can’t wait to see him,” Clark said getting excited.
Lois grabbed her bag and smiled. “He can’t wait to see you too,” she said and headed out. “I’ll be back in a flash.”
“Bye Lois,” Clark said and watched her enter the elevator. His feelings were clearly visible for anybody to see.
“You haven’t gotten over her have you.” It was Perry and it wasn’t a question.
Clark was so intent on watching Lois that he hadn’t heard Perry’s question. “Oh, hi, Chief, what did you say?”
Perry shook his head then he became serious. “You know you have some very stiff competition.”
Clark was confused at first. “Oh, you mean him?” He asked not surprised by Perry’s statement.
“Yeah, Richard didn’t really have a chance once he came back. That was the reason he left; he just couldn’t compete.”
“I know that Chief,” Clark said not liking the direction of Perry’s thoughts then he began to squirm and tried to end the conversation. “I need to get started on that story. Lois should be back with Jason in a little while.”
Perry was genuinely concerned. “Just be careful, Kent.” And with that comment, Perry left him to his work.
Clark watched Perry go back into his office then those nagging doubts entered his mind. I know she loves me; me, Clark Kent not just Superman … but he is me. Just stop it Clark. He shook his head to clear away those hurtful thoughts, booted up his computer and got to work on the story.
~o~o~
Twenty minutes later Lois and Jason arrived back at the Planet, but before she could enter the building, she heard a swooshing sound. Smiling, she looked up into the sky but it wasn’t Superman, it was the other one.
She knew it wasn’t Clark because the ‘S’ on his chest was now backward, his cape was torn and dirty, his face was ‘deformed’ almost grotesque, and he didn’t seem to be able to stand up straight. Lois was revolted by the sight of him then suddenly she felt pity for him, which surprised her.
Lois pulled Jason to her side and backed up from the entrance. Numerous onlookers watched the other one with curiosity as they speculated what would happen next.
The other one landed just in front of them and then he spoke to her. “Lo… is?”
He knows me? Lois thought. But of course, he has Clark’s DNA and his memories. “Stay away from me,” Lois commanded even though she was terrified, she tried to be stern.
He acted as if he hadn’t heard her as he came closer. He suddenly cocked his head to the side and looked at Jason. “Hel … lo.”
“Mom?” Jason was very afraid.
“It’s alright; he won’t hurt us,” Lois wasn’t so sure about that, as she backed up again.
~o~o~
Clark heard the loud voices, the commotion and when Lois’s heartbeat spiked, he hurriedly entered the elevator pulling off his tie as he went. Moments later he was hovering over the scene in front of the Daily Planet and moments later landed directly between Lois and Jason and the other one.
“Go inside Lois,” he commanded and hoped she would obey.
Lois didn’t need to be told twice as she pulled Jason inside the Planet lobby but decided to watch from a short distance just inside the revolving doors. “How bizarre is this?” Lois whispered.
Clark also felt pity for the clone and wondered how he was going to handle this. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw that the crowd was getting larger and realized that fighting him here and now would be pointless because he did have his powers, so he decided to try and reason with him to get him to move on. It was also clear from the looks of him that the clone was either very sick or dying. “You should leave Metropolis, you’re not welcome here,” Clark said hoping to get through to him.
“Metropolis?” He looked around. “My home; me no leave.”
Clark sighed. He needed another plan. He suddenly charged the clone, picked him up and flew him high into the sky. Clark had to hold on tighter because the clone wanted a fight, and so they fought in midair high above the city. Clark managed to avoid the clone’s punches because they were awkward and ill-timed. The fight went on and on. It’s time for this to end, Clark thought.
Lois and Jason came out of the building to watch the scene play out.
Clark then managed to get a good hold on him from behind but he realized the clone was getting weaker, while he on the other hand was getting stronger. Was it possible the sun was affecting both of them but in different ways? Clark flew higher and higher up toward the sun and then he could feel the clone’s breathing become shallow. It was time.
Clark took him to the Fortress where he laid him down and held him for a moment. “The pain will be gone soon.”
“I have … a name.”
“What is it?”
“Bizarro. My father … gave it to me.”
“Your father?”
“Lex ... Luthor.”
Clark’s jaw tightened but he didn’t say anything.
Bizarro suddenly clutched Clark’s arm, took his last breath and then his eyes closed … forever.
Clark laid him down, sighed and thought about Lex and his mad schemes. When will it all end … if ever?
~o~o~
Back at the Planet, Jason had a few questions. “Mom who was that man and where did he come from?”
“It’s a long story, honey.”
“But …?”
“We’ll talk about it tonight. Go on, finish your coloring book, Mr. Clark will want to see it when he gets back.” Lois didn’t want to talk about the clone.
Sighing she got back to the story and Clark had gotten along pretty well. It was clear from his input that Lex was behind the New Krypton fiasco and the cloning, even though they had no real proof. She, of course, could be considered a witness from her experience on the yacht, but her testimony could be considered biased towards Superman. They needed more besides the green ring to tie Lex to New Krypton and the cloning experiments. Lois suddenly remembered the woman from the yacht. I remember now; it was Katherine … that was her name.
A few minutes later, a sad and depressed Clark exited the elevator, saw his family and tried to smile but it didn’t reach his eyes. That’s how he saw them; they were his family. His heart had found no other way to look at them; it was just the way it was, the way it would always be.
Jason was the first to see him. “Mr. Clark, you’re back!” Jason exclaimed and felt compelled to welcome him back. He jumped out of his chair and ran to him.
Clark was thrilled by his son’s welcome. It was just what he needed. “Hi, Jason,” he said and picked him up and gave him a hug, as tears sprang into his eyes.
Jason pulled back, saw his tears and touched his cheek. “Are you ok?”
“I’m alright,” Clark replied and set him down. “What’s going on around here?”
Lois was so touched by the scene that she couldn’t speak for a moment. “Everything is fine, but can we finish this at the house, I have some research I need in order to finish the article.”
“Sure, I need to speak to Perry first; give me a minute.”
“Ok, Jason, get your things, we’re leaving in a few minutes.”
“Alright, Mom.”
~o~o~
Clark entered Perry’s office after knocking. He went to the window and looked up at the sky. He had made a decision, but it felt as if his heart were breaking, shattered into a million pieces never to be whole again.
Perry watched him for a moment. “How’s the article coming, Kent?”
“It’s good, but the reason I needed to see you, it’s about Lois and Jason.” He paused as his chest tightened the pain almost unbearable. “Look out for them, Chief. I know you care about them.”
“Of course I do.” He watched him for a moment not liking what he was hearing. “What are you trying to say, Kent?”
“I may have to go away for a while,” he murmured as he tried to ignore the pain those words caused.
“But, you just got back. What is this really about?”
“You were right, I can’t compete with him,” Clark murmured as he closed his eyes. That wasn’t the real reason he was leaving, but it was one Perry would understand then he turned to go.
Perry suddenly felt bad about the things he had said. Lois and Clark have always had this connection from the moment they had met. He had seen it back then and now it seemed to be back just as strong as ever, but circumstances always seemed to get in the way. Maybe it was their time now and Perry felt he had to do something to see that they didn’t throw this chance away, not this time. “Sit down, Kent.”
“I have to go,” Clark said not in the mood for a lecture.
“Sit down … NOW!” Perry commanded in a voice that no one could ignore.
Clark sighed and took a seat. “You’re not going to talk me out of this.”
“If you’ve made up your mind, but I don’t think you have,” Perry said and went to stand at the door and watched Lois and Jason for a minute.
Perry turned back to him. “I know you love them, don’t deny it.”
“Of course I love them; that’s not the issue.”
“I can’t believe you would say that,” Perry said disappointed in him then he went to stand before him. “It’s the only issue here, Kent. Aren’t you forgetting something? I know those two. I’ve been here, seen a lot over the years, and I knew that she didn’t belong with my nephew. Their relationship crumbled before you came back into her life. Lois did not love him, not the way she loves you.”
His head came up at those words. “I know Lois didn’t tell you that.”
“No, but it’s as plain as the nose on my face how she feels. I know Lois. She hides her feelings well, but deep down under that tough exterior is a woman in love. You can’t throw that away, Kent, not again.”
Clark closed his eyes and thought about his words and he knew they were true. He had promised Lois he would never leave her again. He remembered the look in her eyes when she asked him if he were leaving and it was there right there for him to see. She did love him and they would survive this crisis with Luthor and move forward as a family. He just had to have faith in them and what they feel for each other. He stood up and shook Perry’s hand. “Thank you Chief. I’ll see you on Monday.”
“See you on Monday, Kent, and I want that article as promised.”
Clark shook his head and grinned. “You’ll have it in a little while, Chief.
“Excellent; I can’t wait to read it.”
~o~o~
Clark left Perry’s office with a new strength and purpose. He took a deep breath and watched his family for a moment then he went to Jason and picked him up holding him close. “Lois, before we leave, Jason and I need a few minutes.”
“Oh, ok, I’ll be waiting here when you get back,” Lois said and smiled understanding.
Clark and Jason headed for the elevator then Clark pushed the button for the roof. He sat Jason down and held his hand.
“I’m not allowed on the roof, Mr. Clark,” Jason said wondering what was up.
“I know, but just this once, ok, I’m sure your Mom would understand.”
“Ok,” Jason replied as they exited the elevator and headed up to the roof.
Jason became excited as he took in the Daily Planet globe, all the tall buildings and he could even see the river. “Wow, this is great, Mr. Clark.”
“I knew you would like it. Here, how’s this? Better?” Clark said as he picked him up so he could see the sights.
“Thank you, Mr. Clark,” Jason replied then he had a thought. “Are we going flying, Mr. Clark?” Jason couldn’t help asking.
“No, not today, but one day real soon,” Clark replied chuckling.
“Really do you mean it?” Jason couldn’t contain his excitement.
“Sure, I mean it,” he replied then he sobered suddenly. “Jason, I brought you up here because you deserve an apology for what happened the other night, you know, in your room?”
“Mom told me it wasn’t your fault that someone wanted you to hurt people.”
“Yes, that’s true Jason. But I also wanted to say how sorry I was for leaving and not saying goodbye to you and your Mom. Can you forgive me?”
Jason suddenly realized he could forgive him for just about anything. “I forgive you, Mr. Clark.”
Clark was so moved that his eyes filled with tears. He pulled him in for a hug. “Thank you Jason.”
Jason hugged him back then he had another question for him. He pulled back and looked up at the clear blue sky. “Will I fly one day, Mr. Clark?”
Clark pulled him closer then looked up at the sky their heads touching. “Maybe one day ...”
~o~o~
Hand in hand, Clark and Jason exited the elevator to the bullpen then he saw Lois and the look in her eyes fueled his soul like nothing ever would, just as the sun fueled his body. He touched her soft cheek and smiled. “Let’s go home.”
Lois leaned into his hand and smiled. Soon, they all headed home.
Perry watched them from his office door for a moment then went back inside with a self-satisfied smile on this face.
TBC!
~o~o~
A/N: Clark and his brooding doubts. No more of that! I hope you enjoyed it and thanks for reading. Remember now, reviews are love!
Author: Babettew54 babettew54
Category: Superman Returns
Characters: Lois Lane/Clark Kent/Kal-El, Perry White, Lex Luthor
Rating: M
Summary: They’ve had so many chances to make it work, but could there really be one more?
Words: 3,400
Disclaimer: DC Comics/WB Entertainment owns. No profit is being made from this story; this is strictly for my own amusement.
Author’s Notes: In this chapter, Luthor’s plans begin to unravel as Clark comes face to face with a new foe! Also Jason and Clark slowly grow closer. Please read and review. Thanks! :D
Banner by hanakt
Previously:
( Chapter 1)( Chapter 2)( Chapter 3)( Chapter 4)( Chapter 5)
( Chapter 6)
Chapter 7: Bizarro
Early morning, the next day, the DP bullpen:
Lois and Clark had come straight from the airport to the DP after their long overnight flight home. It was a Saturday morning and Jason was still at the sitters, but Lois would be picking him up in a few hours. Right now though, Perry wanted an update on the Luthor arrests both in Metropolis and in Nassau. The Luthor ‘clone’ and Superman’s obvious defection to the Luthor camp was on everyone’s lips, on all the news channels, on television, online and in the papers, but only a few knew the whole story and now Perry would know too.
Clark knocked on Perry’s door and entered without waiting for a response. “We’re back, Chief.”
“Come in, come in; I’ve been waiting for you,” Perry said as he waved them in.
Everyone took a seat then Lois spoke up. “We got your messages Chief, and we’ve seen the newsfeeds, videos and we’ve been online too.”
Perry chuckled. “I can just imagine the looks on your faces when you saw that news conference.”
“It was definitely a shock,” Clark said as he shook his head.
“Have you had a chance to speak to Superman? What did he say?” Perry asked dying to know.
“That thing, whatever it is, is also a clone,” Clark said.
“I suspected it because since I left you those messages, the ‘clone’ has been seen around town and he’s not the same as the first day he appeared. His complexion and facial features have changed, he’s uncoordinated, and when he speaks it’s almost childlike.”
“It sounds like Luthor got it all wrong because there’s only one Superman,” Lois said and smiled at her partner.
Perry couldn’t help but notice their intimate looks. “Is there something you want to tell me?”
“No, nothing, Chief,” Lois said and kept her mouth shut for a change.
Perry had his doubts. “So, tell me, I want to know all that went down in Nassau. Kent, you were the first one down there, so what happened?” Perry asked wanting to know all the details.
“Wait a minute; you knew Clark was already down there?” Lois asked her boss then turned back to face him. Clark had the decency to look guilty as he glanced at the ceiling.
“Of course; come on now Lois, with your history of getting into trouble I couldn’t just send you down there alone, besides I thought you knew he was there.” He gave them a sly grin. “Don’t you two ‘talk’ to each other?”
“Of course we do, Chief, it’s just, well ...” She glanced at Clark for help.
“We got our wires crossed this time, Chief,” Clark said and quirked a smile.
“Uh, huh,” Perry mumbled suspicious but he didn’t believe a word of it.
“Can we please stay on the subject at hand?” Lois asked weary of the conversation.
“Anyway, Chief, Lois was very helpful. She found Luthor on her own, contacted the authorities and Luthor was arrested shortly thereafter. I on the other hand, couldn’t find him,” Clark said and glanced at Lois.
Lois smiled at him thankful for the praise.
Perry tried not to roll his eyes and gave praise where it was due. “Good job, Lois.”
“Thanks, Chief,” Lois replied and couldn’t help but gloat just a little.
“So tell me, which one is the real Luthor?” Perry asked.
“The one in Nassau,” Clark replied.
“You’re sure?”
“Positive,” Lois replied.
“You know Chief it was Lois who figured out a way to tell the difference between them.”
“Really, what is it?”
“The real Lex was wearing a ‘green kryptonite’ ring and the clone wasn’t. You know he wouldn’t pass up a chance to destroy Superman.”
Perry stroked his chin. “Of course he wouldn’t.” He grinned at Lois. “That was pretty observant of you Lois.”
It wasn’t in Lois to be humble. “Yes it was.”
Perry and Clark had to laugh.
After a few moments, Perry shook his head. “Excellent work guys, so when can I get my front page story?” He asked and rubbed his hands together.
“In a few hours, Chief,” Lois said and chuckled at her boss.
“I’ll look for it then,” Perry said then his phone rang. He answered it but glanced at his star reporters. “Why are you two still here? Get to work,” he commanded then went back to his phone call.
~o~o~
As Lois and Clark headed back to their desks, Lois glanced at her watch. “Look at the time; I promised the sitter I’d pick Jason up at 10:00.”
“How is he doing, Lois, I mean, you know what I mean?”
“His special gifts haven’t been a problem, not yet anyway. It has been hard for him, but being around other children is good for him. The sitter I found is wonderful; she has three kids around Jason’s age, so he’s adjusting.”
“I’m glad, Lois. I can’t wait to see him,” Clark said getting excited.
Lois grabbed her bag and smiled. “He can’t wait to see you too,” she said and headed out. “I’ll be back in a flash.”
“Bye Lois,” Clark said and watched her enter the elevator. His feelings were clearly visible for anybody to see.
“You haven’t gotten over her have you.” It was Perry and it wasn’t a question.
Clark was so intent on watching Lois that he hadn’t heard Perry’s question. “Oh, hi, Chief, what did you say?”
Perry shook his head then he became serious. “You know you have some very stiff competition.”
Clark was confused at first. “Oh, you mean him?” He asked not surprised by Perry’s statement.
“Yeah, Richard didn’t really have a chance once he came back. That was the reason he left; he just couldn’t compete.”
“I know that Chief,” Clark said not liking the direction of Perry’s thoughts then he began to squirm and tried to end the conversation. “I need to get started on that story. Lois should be back with Jason in a little while.”
Perry was genuinely concerned. “Just be careful, Kent.” And with that comment, Perry left him to his work.
Clark watched Perry go back into his office then those nagging doubts entered his mind. I know she loves me; me, Clark Kent not just Superman … but he is me. Just stop it Clark. He shook his head to clear away those hurtful thoughts, booted up his computer and got to work on the story.
~o~o~
Twenty minutes later Lois and Jason arrived back at the Planet, but before she could enter the building, she heard a swooshing sound. Smiling, she looked up into the sky but it wasn’t Superman, it was the other one.
She knew it wasn’t Clark because the ‘S’ on his chest was now backward, his cape was torn and dirty, his face was ‘deformed’ almost grotesque, and he didn’t seem to be able to stand up straight. Lois was revolted by the sight of him then suddenly she felt pity for him, which surprised her.
Lois pulled Jason to her side and backed up from the entrance. Numerous onlookers watched the other one with curiosity as they speculated what would happen next.
The other one landed just in front of them and then he spoke to her. “Lo… is?”
He knows me? Lois thought. But of course, he has Clark’s DNA and his memories. “Stay away from me,” Lois commanded even though she was terrified, she tried to be stern.
He acted as if he hadn’t heard her as he came closer. He suddenly cocked his head to the side and looked at Jason. “Hel … lo.”
“Mom?” Jason was very afraid.
“It’s alright; he won’t hurt us,” Lois wasn’t so sure about that, as she backed up again.
~o~o~
Clark heard the loud voices, the commotion and when Lois’s heartbeat spiked, he hurriedly entered the elevator pulling off his tie as he went. Moments later he was hovering over the scene in front of the Daily Planet and moments later landed directly between Lois and Jason and the other one.
“Go inside Lois,” he commanded and hoped she would obey.
Lois didn’t need to be told twice as she pulled Jason inside the Planet lobby but decided to watch from a short distance just inside the revolving doors. “How bizarre is this?” Lois whispered.
Clark also felt pity for the clone and wondered how he was going to handle this. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw that the crowd was getting larger and realized that fighting him here and now would be pointless because he did have his powers, so he decided to try and reason with him to get him to move on. It was also clear from the looks of him that the clone was either very sick or dying. “You should leave Metropolis, you’re not welcome here,” Clark said hoping to get through to him.
“Metropolis?” He looked around. “My home; me no leave.”
Clark sighed. He needed another plan. He suddenly charged the clone, picked him up and flew him high into the sky. Clark had to hold on tighter because the clone wanted a fight, and so they fought in midair high above the city. Clark managed to avoid the clone’s punches because they were awkward and ill-timed. The fight went on and on. It’s time for this to end, Clark thought.
Lois and Jason came out of the building to watch the scene play out.
Clark then managed to get a good hold on him from behind but he realized the clone was getting weaker, while he on the other hand was getting stronger. Was it possible the sun was affecting both of them but in different ways? Clark flew higher and higher up toward the sun and then he could feel the clone’s breathing become shallow. It was time.
Clark took him to the Fortress where he laid him down and held him for a moment. “The pain will be gone soon.”
“I have … a name.”
“What is it?”
“Bizarro. My father … gave it to me.”
“Your father?”
“Lex ... Luthor.”
Clark’s jaw tightened but he didn’t say anything.
Bizarro suddenly clutched Clark’s arm, took his last breath and then his eyes closed … forever.
Clark laid him down, sighed and thought about Lex and his mad schemes. When will it all end … if ever?
~o~o~
Back at the Planet, Jason had a few questions. “Mom who was that man and where did he come from?”
“It’s a long story, honey.”
“But …?”
“We’ll talk about it tonight. Go on, finish your coloring book, Mr. Clark will want to see it when he gets back.” Lois didn’t want to talk about the clone.
Sighing she got back to the story and Clark had gotten along pretty well. It was clear from his input that Lex was behind the New Krypton fiasco and the cloning, even though they had no real proof. She, of course, could be considered a witness from her experience on the yacht, but her testimony could be considered biased towards Superman. They needed more besides the green ring to tie Lex to New Krypton and the cloning experiments. Lois suddenly remembered the woman from the yacht. I remember now; it was Katherine … that was her name.
A few minutes later, a sad and depressed Clark exited the elevator, saw his family and tried to smile but it didn’t reach his eyes. That’s how he saw them; they were his family. His heart had found no other way to look at them; it was just the way it was, the way it would always be.
Jason was the first to see him. “Mr. Clark, you’re back!” Jason exclaimed and felt compelled to welcome him back. He jumped out of his chair and ran to him.
Clark was thrilled by his son’s welcome. It was just what he needed. “Hi, Jason,” he said and picked him up and gave him a hug, as tears sprang into his eyes.
Jason pulled back, saw his tears and touched his cheek. “Are you ok?”
“I’m alright,” Clark replied and set him down. “What’s going on around here?”
Lois was so touched by the scene that she couldn’t speak for a moment. “Everything is fine, but can we finish this at the house, I have some research I need in order to finish the article.”
“Sure, I need to speak to Perry first; give me a minute.”
“Ok, Jason, get your things, we’re leaving in a few minutes.”
“Alright, Mom.”
~o~o~
Clark entered Perry’s office after knocking. He went to the window and looked up at the sky. He had made a decision, but it felt as if his heart were breaking, shattered into a million pieces never to be whole again.
Perry watched him for a moment. “How’s the article coming, Kent?”
“It’s good, but the reason I needed to see you, it’s about Lois and Jason.” He paused as his chest tightened the pain almost unbearable. “Look out for them, Chief. I know you care about them.”
“Of course I do.” He watched him for a moment not liking what he was hearing. “What are you trying to say, Kent?”
“I may have to go away for a while,” he murmured as he tried to ignore the pain those words caused.
“But, you just got back. What is this really about?”
“You were right, I can’t compete with him,” Clark murmured as he closed his eyes. That wasn’t the real reason he was leaving, but it was one Perry would understand then he turned to go.
Perry suddenly felt bad about the things he had said. Lois and Clark have always had this connection from the moment they had met. He had seen it back then and now it seemed to be back just as strong as ever, but circumstances always seemed to get in the way. Maybe it was their time now and Perry felt he had to do something to see that they didn’t throw this chance away, not this time. “Sit down, Kent.”
“I have to go,” Clark said not in the mood for a lecture.
“Sit down … NOW!” Perry commanded in a voice that no one could ignore.
Clark sighed and took a seat. “You’re not going to talk me out of this.”
“If you’ve made up your mind, but I don’t think you have,” Perry said and went to stand at the door and watched Lois and Jason for a minute.
Perry turned back to him. “I know you love them, don’t deny it.”
“Of course I love them; that’s not the issue.”
“I can’t believe you would say that,” Perry said disappointed in him then he went to stand before him. “It’s the only issue here, Kent. Aren’t you forgetting something? I know those two. I’ve been here, seen a lot over the years, and I knew that she didn’t belong with my nephew. Their relationship crumbled before you came back into her life. Lois did not love him, not the way she loves you.”
His head came up at those words. “I know Lois didn’t tell you that.”
“No, but it’s as plain as the nose on my face how she feels. I know Lois. She hides her feelings well, but deep down under that tough exterior is a woman in love. You can’t throw that away, Kent, not again.”
Clark closed his eyes and thought about his words and he knew they were true. He had promised Lois he would never leave her again. He remembered the look in her eyes when she asked him if he were leaving and it was there right there for him to see. She did love him and they would survive this crisis with Luthor and move forward as a family. He just had to have faith in them and what they feel for each other. He stood up and shook Perry’s hand. “Thank you Chief. I’ll see you on Monday.”
“See you on Monday, Kent, and I want that article as promised.”
Clark shook his head and grinned. “You’ll have it in a little while, Chief.
“Excellent; I can’t wait to read it.”
~o~o~
Clark left Perry’s office with a new strength and purpose. He took a deep breath and watched his family for a moment then he went to Jason and picked him up holding him close. “Lois, before we leave, Jason and I need a few minutes.”
“Oh, ok, I’ll be waiting here when you get back,” Lois said and smiled understanding.
Clark and Jason headed for the elevator then Clark pushed the button for the roof. He sat Jason down and held his hand.
“I’m not allowed on the roof, Mr. Clark,” Jason said wondering what was up.
“I know, but just this once, ok, I’m sure your Mom would understand.”
“Ok,” Jason replied as they exited the elevator and headed up to the roof.
Jason became excited as he took in the Daily Planet globe, all the tall buildings and he could even see the river. “Wow, this is great, Mr. Clark.”
“I knew you would like it. Here, how’s this? Better?” Clark said as he picked him up so he could see the sights.
“Thank you, Mr. Clark,” Jason replied then he had a thought. “Are we going flying, Mr. Clark?” Jason couldn’t help asking.
“No, not today, but one day real soon,” Clark replied chuckling.
“Really do you mean it?” Jason couldn’t contain his excitement.
“Sure, I mean it,” he replied then he sobered suddenly. “Jason, I brought you up here because you deserve an apology for what happened the other night, you know, in your room?”
“Mom told me it wasn’t your fault that someone wanted you to hurt people.”
“Yes, that’s true Jason. But I also wanted to say how sorry I was for leaving and not saying goodbye to you and your Mom. Can you forgive me?”
Jason suddenly realized he could forgive him for just about anything. “I forgive you, Mr. Clark.”
Clark was so moved that his eyes filled with tears. He pulled him in for a hug. “Thank you Jason.”
Jason hugged him back then he had another question for him. He pulled back and looked up at the clear blue sky. “Will I fly one day, Mr. Clark?”
Clark pulled him closer then looked up at the sky their heads touching. “Maybe one day ...”
~o~o~
Hand in hand, Clark and Jason exited the elevator to the bullpen then he saw Lois and the look in her eyes fueled his soul like nothing ever would, just as the sun fueled his body. He touched her soft cheek and smiled. “Let’s go home.”
Lois leaned into his hand and smiled. Soon, they all headed home.
Perry watched them from his office door for a moment then went back inside with a self-satisfied smile on this face.
TBC!
~o~o~
A/N: Clark and his brooding doubts. No more of that! I hope you enjoyed it and thanks for reading. Remember now, reviews are love!