Second Chances (PG-13) - Chlex Fic - Chapters 4 & 5
Disclaimer: I'm not the rightful owner of any of these characters. Read any of the previous chapters for a complete disclaimer.
Here's a new installment. Enjoy the reading !
CHAPTER 4: Back on his Feet
Two months had gone by since Christmas and Lex decided it was time to move on. Martha's ministrations and Jonathan's strength had helped him through the second most difficult time of his life- the first being his mother's death-and he wasn't sure how he was going to repay all they had done for him. Then, there was Chloe- or Aunt Chloe as Alex affectionately called her; she'd been a marvellous help, particularly with his son, who had developed a childish crush on her.
“ Martha, may I ask a last favour of you ? “
“ Certainly, Lex. “
“ I've been thinking... I'd like to secure the children's future in case anything happened to me. I'm planning on refloating Lexcorp. “
“ Are you sure that's what you want, honey ? “
“ You're afraid I'll fall into my old Luthor habits, Martha ? “
“ I wouldn't like you to jeopardise everything you've built with so much effort, Lex, to avenge Lana's death. “
“ You don't know what it feels like, Martha, to be unable to save someone you love more than life itself because your own flesh and blood hates your guts. “
“ Don't let hatred consume you, Lex. You've got too much to live for. In spite of your father, there are a lot of people who love you and care about you. “
“ Will you help me, Martha ? I need to contact Gabe Sullivan and all those people thathad faith in me once . “
“ Make a list of the former shareholders, Lex, and we'll start calling them at home.I'll phone Chloe and see if she can lend us a hand, “ volunteered Martha.
It was about six o'clock in the evening and only Gabe remained in Martha's cosy kitchen. The meeting with Lexcorp shareholders had been a success thanks to the support and enthusiasm of Chloe's father.
“ Gabe, thank you so much for coming today. “
“ It's been a pleasure, Mr Luthor. “
“ Would you like me to drive you home ? “
“ Chloe said she'd pick me up on her way to the bus station, Mr Luthor. “
“ She's leaving ? “
“Yes, she's extended her stay too much and her new boss wants her to start right away. “
“ New boss ? What's happened with her job at “ The Daily Planet “ ?
“ I don't know for certain and I know better than to ask her. You only have to mention the subject to see her eyes turn watery. She loved that job and I can't understand why she gave it up. Of one thing I'm sure: she wasn't fired. “
Lex realised he had been so wrapped up in his own misery that he hadn't noticed what was going on with Chloe. Still, he had a pretty good idea of what- or rather who- was behind her melancholy mood: Clark Kent. What had he done this time ? Chloe deserved some happiness in her life and Lex himself had suffered the angst of unrequited love for many years not to understand what she was living through.
“ Oh, here she comes ! “ exclaimed a smiling Gabe.
“ Hi, dad ! Hi, Lex ! How did it go ? “
“ Better than I'd hoped for, Chloe, and I have all of you to thank for that. “
“ Give yourself some credit, Lex, “added Chloe. “ They wouldn't have come if they didn't have a high opinion of you. “
“ Aunt Chloe ! Aunt Chloe ! “ shouted Alex coming down the stairs and jumping on her.
“ Easy, young man ! “ exclaimed a laughing Lex . “ You'll knock her down ! “
“ It's nice to see you too, Alex, “ answered Chloe tousling his chestnut hair.
“ Come to see Lilly. There's something I want to show you ! “ said an excited Alex dragging her up the stairs.
“ OK, OK, I'm coming ! But keep your voice down. We don't want to wake her up, “ she added resignedly, looking down at Gabe, Lex and Martha from the top of the stairs.
Alex opened the door of Clark's old room and tiptoed to the cradle where Lilly was lying fast asleep.
“ Come in, Chloe ! “ entreated the boy. “ Do you like her new nightdress ? I bought it with my own money and Grandma Martha helped me pick it up. “
Chloe stayed frozen at the door, unaware of Lex, who had followed them upstairs. Although she had seldom been allowed into the sanctuary of Clark's bedroom, the wounds were still too fresh. She scanned the walls and the shelves filled with NASA posters and high school memorabilia. Everything remained mostly the same, except for the cradle and that indescribable scent- a mixture of baby talc powder, vanilla and fresh laundry- the smell of the baby girl and Lex. Closing her eyes, Chloe filled her nostrils with the soothing perfume and then, stepped inside.
“ Do you like it ? “ insisted Alex.
“ It's beautiful, Alex, “she answered caressing the baby and placing a soft kiss on her cheek.
“ Aunt Chloe, why are you sad ? “
“ I'm not sad, honey. “
“ Then, why are you crying ? “
“I'm not crying, Alex, “ she responded dabbing her eyes with a clean hadkerchief. “ It's this damn mascara that's always getting into my eyes. Don't tell your father I've said ' damn' or he'll think I'm trying to corrupt you, “ said Chloe trying to lighten the mood.
“ What shouldn't he tell me ? “ asked Lex from the door.
“ Nothing. That's a secret between your son and me. Right, Alex ? “ replied Chloe hiding the handkerchief away.
“ Whatever ! “ said a puzzled Alex.
“ Great. Now, young man, why don't you go to my car and take the present I've brought for you ? “
“ You've brought me a present ? “
“ Yes, and I bet you know what it is. You've been dropping hints for several months now. Come on, Alex. Go ! I want to have a word with your dad before I leave. “
“ What was that about ? “ asked Lex once Alex was gone.
“ That boy's definitely your son, Lex. He knows what he wants and doesn't give up until he gets it. I don't think there's anybody in this world who can say ' no ' to either of you when you ask for something so charmingly. “
“ And what, prey, did he ask for ? “ asked Lex with his trademark smile.
“ You'd better get ready to have a reporter in your family, Lex. He'll start punching the keys in no time. I've just given him the first typewriter my dad bought me when I was in fifth grade, “ confessed a smiling Chloe.
“ You must care a lot for my son to give him something so precious to you, Chloe, “ replied an emotional Lex.
“ I do. He's such a lovable boy. You and Lana have done a great job raising him, Lex. You can tell there's been a lot of love in his life. “
“ It means a lot to me to hear you say that, Chloe, “ answered Lex with a catch in his voice. “ Now... what's going on, Chloe ? “ he asked changing the subject.
“ What do you mean ? “
“ You don't need to pretend in front of me, Chloe. You've seen me at my most vulnerable. Is it Clark, again ? “
“ Am I that transparent, Lex ? I must seem pathetic. “
“ No, Chloe. You shouldn't be ashamed of your feelings. They're pure. He doesn' t know what he's missing. “
“ Do you think so ? “
“ Some day you'll make a man very happy, Chloe. You've got a lot of love to give but I think it's time for you to start thinking about yourself for a change. “
“ But it hurts, Lex. I never thought I'd say this. I never thought I'd hate Lois so. “
“ Lois ? As in Lois Lane ? “
“ Yes, my own cousin. Can you believe it ? “ she said chokingly.
“ Is that why you resigned from ' The Planet ' ? “
“ Mhm..., “ assented a teary Chloe.
“ Well, I guess a change of scenery could help for a while. But mark my words, Chloe: hiding's just hiding and it's not the way to put an end to what you're feeling. “
“ I know. But it's the only way I can handle it right now, “ conceded Chloe bursting into tears.
“ Come, Chloe. Don't cry, “ said Lex hugging her tightly. “ I promise you, Clark's not the last man you'll ever love. “
“ Oh, Lex ! I've ruined your shirt, “ apologised Chloe after a few minutes.
“ Nothing that water and soap can't solve, “ said Lex dismissing the comment. “ Shall we go down now ? Or you'd rather I brought you your bag ? “
“ Could you ? I'd prefer to touch up my make-up before coming down. “
“ I'll be back in a minute. “
“ Thank you, Lex. “
Ten minutes elapsed and there was still no sign of Lex and her handbag.
“ Well, Chloe, it appears you'll have to go down without make-up, “ she said to her reflection in the mirror. “ You could look worse , “ she murmured.
“ Chloe ? Are you there ? “ asked Lex knocking at the bathroom door.
“ Yes. Where you've been ? I thought you'd fallen through a black hole, “ she joked on opening the door.
“ Here's your stuff, Chloe, “ said a sobered Lex, handing her the bag.
“ What's the matter, Lex ? “ asked Chloe, sensing his discomfiture.
“ My father's just stopped by. “
“ Lionel ? What did he want ? “ asked an outraged Chloe.
“ He wants me back at Luthorcorp. “
“ And what did you say ? “
“ Not in a million years, Chloe, “ he replied bitterly.
“ Promise me something, Lex. Listen to Martha's advice- she means well. Your father's not worth it. Remember what Lionel's done to you, Lex. Loving your children as you do you wouldn't like them to have a parent consumed by hatred as yours. “
“ You're a wonderful friend, Chloe, and I wish you all the best, “ answered Lex wrapping her in a brotherly embrace.
CHAPTER 5: Chancing upon an Old Friend
Three years later
It was snowing heavily over the streets of Metropolis and Chloe had just bought the last Christmas present on her shopping list when a sixth-sense told her to stop in her tracks and turn around. She was almost certain he had recognised her despite the winter woolen cap and the new hairstyle. She remembered from experience that there was nothing in this world that escaped his radar, and her pathetic attempt at passing unnoticed in Metropolis was no challenge to his sharp eyes- or rather, to those two pairs of eyes, for the son seemed to have inherited the father's extraordinary gift of observation.
“ Aunt Chloe ! Aunt Chloe ! “ shouted the boy, letting go of his father's hand.
Chloe stood still and, setting the bags on the pavement, got herself ready for the boy's heart-felt embrace.
“ My, my, Alex. Look what Santa's brought you ! “ exclaimed a smiling Lex walking towards them with a tiny hand clasped tightly in his.
“ Are you coming to Smallville, Aunt Chloe ? “ asked Alex enthusiastically.
“I... “ mumbled Chloe.
“ Don't overwhelm her with questions, son. And give her some breathing space. You're choking her ! “ exclaimed Lex.
“ It's all right, Alex. I've missed you, too ! “
“ Is it true you've been to all those places , the ones you sent me postcards from ? “
“ Yep. The globetrotting reporter, they've dubbed me !” said Chloe smiling at Lex over Alex's head. “ Now, let me say hello to the rest of the family, honey, “ she said taking him by the hand and coming closer to Lex. “ And who might this beautiful lady be ? “ she asked to the girl pressed against Lex's right leg.
“ She's rather shy, “ answered Lex, lifting her up.
“ It's OK. I like mysterious little girls, “ smiled Chloe when the girl hid her face against her father's neck.
“ Won't you say hello to Aunt Chloe, Lilly ? “ asked Lex.
“ It's all right, Lex. Don't press her. She'll do it when she's ready,“ answered Chloe kissing the top of her head.
“ I'm jealous, Chloe ! You've kissed and hugged my two children. What about me ? “ said a seemingly offended Lex.
“ And what have you done to deserve a kiss ? “
“ I've been listening to a friend's advice, “ he answered gravely.
“ Well, then I guess you've earned it, “ she said, grazing his cheek.
The scent of vanilla, fresh laundry and baby cologne invaded her nostrils and caused an unexpected tremor in her, which she covered up hurriedly by saying: “ It's freezing cold ! What would you say if I bought you three a cup of hot cocoa ? “
“ I'd say... we'd love to, “ he answered with his knee-weakening smile.
The coffee shop they sat in had been one of Chloe's favourite places in the city while she was studying journalism at MetU. Not only did it brew the best coffee and chocolate in town but offered its clients a wonderful assortment of books to browse or read at their pleasure. Chloe was pleased to see Alex shared his parents' passion for books for, as soon as he'd finished his cocoa and buns, he asked Lex's permission to be excused and took little Lilly away.
“ He's an avid reader and there's nothing he enjoys more than reading to his sister, “ said Lex, looking at Alex regaling Lillian's ears with one of Beatrix Potter's children books.
“ I hope you haven't made him read ' The Art of War ' yet, “ said Chloe ironically.
“ You should know me better than that. “
“ I was joking... “
“ I know, “ answered Lex looking at her straight in the eye. “ How are you doing, Chloe ? “
“ I'm fine, Lex. “
“ Are you ? Really ? Have you heard the news ? “
“ I have. “
“ Does it bother you ? “
“ I've finally realised I'm over him and I wish them both happiness. It wasn't meant to be, Lex. And you were right. Clark's not the only guy in this world. “
“ Is there anyone on the horizon ? “
“ There might be, “ she confessed, lowering her eyes.
“ Do I know him ? “ he asked with a smirk.
“ You cannot help your nature, Lex. You should have been a reporter. Why are you asking me so many questions ? “
“ Just curious, “ he shrugged his shoulders. “What happened to that Daily Planet photographer... James Olsen, wasn't it ? “
“ Jimmy ? Where do you know him from ? “
“ Clark mentioned him. He said you used to date. “
“ We went out a couple of times during my internship but it wasn't anything serious. He made me feel I was the one wearing the pants and- though I consider myself modern- that's not what I look for in a relationship. “
“ You prefer the man to lead ? “
“ Don't get me wrong, Lex. I believe in sexual equality but I still want to feel I'm a woman. “
“ Were you this frank with him ? “
“ Poor Jimmy. He was a darling. No, I didn't have the heart to tell him the truth. I just said we weren't compatible. “
“ Well, I'm not surprised. You've always been the diplomatic cousin. “
“ Yeah, Lois' too straightforward. “
“ Maybe there lies the key to happiness, Chloe. We two are too reserved and cerebral. We think too much. My father used to say my weakness resided in my letting emotions control me, but I disagree. I was never happier than the moment I allowed my heart to make the greatest decision in my life. And despite what happened three years ago I don't regret it. Don't get me wrong... I still miss her and wish she were alive. But then, I look at Alex and Lilly and realise it was worth it. “
“ I wish I had your courage, Lex. “
“You just have to take the leap. “
“ It's easier said than done. “
“ And that coming from the intrepid reporter who dared expose the CEO of Luthorcorp in a much publicised book ? “
“ I couldn't have done it without your help, Lex. “
“ Well, look for me when you're ready to jump next time. You know where to find me, Chloe, “ he said cryptically.
Lex's words could be interpreted in a number of ways and Chloe was so confused by what their chance meeting had made her feel that she daren't ask him for clarification. It wouldn't be the first time she built a mountain out of a molehill, and she didn't want to make a fool of herself. ' You're seeing things that aren't there, Sullivan. Blame it on the caffeine. Wake up to reality! He was just offering a hand to help you with your career, wasn't he ? '
What do you think of Lex and Chloe's relationship so far ?
CHAPTERS 6 & 7
Here's a new installment. Enjoy the reading !
CHAPTER 4: Back on his Feet
Two months had gone by since Christmas and Lex decided it was time to move on. Martha's ministrations and Jonathan's strength had helped him through the second most difficult time of his life- the first being his mother's death-and he wasn't sure how he was going to repay all they had done for him. Then, there was Chloe- or Aunt Chloe as Alex affectionately called her; she'd been a marvellous help, particularly with his son, who had developed a childish crush on her.
“ Martha, may I ask a last favour of you ? “
“ Certainly, Lex. “
“ I've been thinking... I'd like to secure the children's future in case anything happened to me. I'm planning on refloating Lexcorp. “
“ Are you sure that's what you want, honey ? “
“ You're afraid I'll fall into my old Luthor habits, Martha ? “
“ I wouldn't like you to jeopardise everything you've built with so much effort, Lex, to avenge Lana's death. “
“ You don't know what it feels like, Martha, to be unable to save someone you love more than life itself because your own flesh and blood hates your guts. “
“ Don't let hatred consume you, Lex. You've got too much to live for. In spite of your father, there are a lot of people who love you and care about you. “
“ Will you help me, Martha ? I need to contact Gabe Sullivan and all those people thathad faith in me once . “
“ Make a list of the former shareholders, Lex, and we'll start calling them at home.I'll phone Chloe and see if she can lend us a hand, “ volunteered Martha.
It was about six o'clock in the evening and only Gabe remained in Martha's cosy kitchen. The meeting with Lexcorp shareholders had been a success thanks to the support and enthusiasm of Chloe's father.
“ Gabe, thank you so much for coming today. “
“ It's been a pleasure, Mr Luthor. “
“ Would you like me to drive you home ? “
“ Chloe said she'd pick me up on her way to the bus station, Mr Luthor. “
“ She's leaving ? “
“Yes, she's extended her stay too much and her new boss wants her to start right away. “
“ New boss ? What's happened with her job at “ The Daily Planet “ ?
“ I don't know for certain and I know better than to ask her. You only have to mention the subject to see her eyes turn watery. She loved that job and I can't understand why she gave it up. Of one thing I'm sure: she wasn't fired. “
Lex realised he had been so wrapped up in his own misery that he hadn't noticed what was going on with Chloe. Still, he had a pretty good idea of what- or rather who- was behind her melancholy mood: Clark Kent. What had he done this time ? Chloe deserved some happiness in her life and Lex himself had suffered the angst of unrequited love for many years not to understand what she was living through.
“ Oh, here she comes ! “ exclaimed a smiling Gabe.
“ Hi, dad ! Hi, Lex ! How did it go ? “
“ Better than I'd hoped for, Chloe, and I have all of you to thank for that. “
“ Give yourself some credit, Lex, “added Chloe. “ They wouldn't have come if they didn't have a high opinion of you. “
“ Aunt Chloe ! Aunt Chloe ! “ shouted Alex coming down the stairs and jumping on her.
“ Easy, young man ! “ exclaimed a laughing Lex . “ You'll knock her down ! “
“ It's nice to see you too, Alex, “ answered Chloe tousling his chestnut hair.
“ Come to see Lilly. There's something I want to show you ! “ said an excited Alex dragging her up the stairs.
“ OK, OK, I'm coming ! But keep your voice down. We don't want to wake her up, “ she added resignedly, looking down at Gabe, Lex and Martha from the top of the stairs.
Alex opened the door of Clark's old room and tiptoed to the cradle where Lilly was lying fast asleep.
“ Come in, Chloe ! “ entreated the boy. “ Do you like her new nightdress ? I bought it with my own money and Grandma Martha helped me pick it up. “
Chloe stayed frozen at the door, unaware of Lex, who had followed them upstairs. Although she had seldom been allowed into the sanctuary of Clark's bedroom, the wounds were still too fresh. She scanned the walls and the shelves filled with NASA posters and high school memorabilia. Everything remained mostly the same, except for the cradle and that indescribable scent- a mixture of baby talc powder, vanilla and fresh laundry- the smell of the baby girl and Lex. Closing her eyes, Chloe filled her nostrils with the soothing perfume and then, stepped inside.
“ Do you like it ? “ insisted Alex.
“ It's beautiful, Alex, “she answered caressing the baby and placing a soft kiss on her cheek.
“ Aunt Chloe, why are you sad ? “
“ I'm not sad, honey. “
“ Then, why are you crying ? “
“I'm not crying, Alex, “ she responded dabbing her eyes with a clean hadkerchief. “ It's this damn mascara that's always getting into my eyes. Don't tell your father I've said ' damn' or he'll think I'm trying to corrupt you, “ said Chloe trying to lighten the mood.
“ What shouldn't he tell me ? “ asked Lex from the door.
“ Nothing. That's a secret between your son and me. Right, Alex ? “ replied Chloe hiding the handkerchief away.
“ Whatever ! “ said a puzzled Alex.
“ Great. Now, young man, why don't you go to my car and take the present I've brought for you ? “
“ You've brought me a present ? “
“ Yes, and I bet you know what it is. You've been dropping hints for several months now. Come on, Alex. Go ! I want to have a word with your dad before I leave. “
“ What was that about ? “ asked Lex once Alex was gone.
“ That boy's definitely your son, Lex. He knows what he wants and doesn't give up until he gets it. I don't think there's anybody in this world who can say ' no ' to either of you when you ask for something so charmingly. “
“ And what, prey, did he ask for ? “ asked Lex with his trademark smile.
“ You'd better get ready to have a reporter in your family, Lex. He'll start punching the keys in no time. I've just given him the first typewriter my dad bought me when I was in fifth grade, “ confessed a smiling Chloe.
“ You must care a lot for my son to give him something so precious to you, Chloe, “ replied an emotional Lex.
“ I do. He's such a lovable boy. You and Lana have done a great job raising him, Lex. You can tell there's been a lot of love in his life. “
“ It means a lot to me to hear you say that, Chloe, “ answered Lex with a catch in his voice. “ Now... what's going on, Chloe ? “ he asked changing the subject.
“ What do you mean ? “
“ You don't need to pretend in front of me, Chloe. You've seen me at my most vulnerable. Is it Clark, again ? “
“ Am I that transparent, Lex ? I must seem pathetic. “
“ No, Chloe. You shouldn't be ashamed of your feelings. They're pure. He doesn' t know what he's missing. “
“ Do you think so ? “
“ Some day you'll make a man very happy, Chloe. You've got a lot of love to give but I think it's time for you to start thinking about yourself for a change. “
“ But it hurts, Lex. I never thought I'd say this. I never thought I'd hate Lois so. “
“ Lois ? As in Lois Lane ? “
“ Yes, my own cousin. Can you believe it ? “ she said chokingly.
“ Is that why you resigned from ' The Planet ' ? “
“ Mhm..., “ assented a teary Chloe.
“ Well, I guess a change of scenery could help for a while. But mark my words, Chloe: hiding's just hiding and it's not the way to put an end to what you're feeling. “
“ I know. But it's the only way I can handle it right now, “ conceded Chloe bursting into tears.
“ Come, Chloe. Don't cry, “ said Lex hugging her tightly. “ I promise you, Clark's not the last man you'll ever love. “
“ Oh, Lex ! I've ruined your shirt, “ apologised Chloe after a few minutes.
“ Nothing that water and soap can't solve, “ said Lex dismissing the comment. “ Shall we go down now ? Or you'd rather I brought you your bag ? “
“ Could you ? I'd prefer to touch up my make-up before coming down. “
“ I'll be back in a minute. “
“ Thank you, Lex. “
Ten minutes elapsed and there was still no sign of Lex and her handbag.
“ Well, Chloe, it appears you'll have to go down without make-up, “ she said to her reflection in the mirror. “ You could look worse , “ she murmured.
“ Chloe ? Are you there ? “ asked Lex knocking at the bathroom door.
“ Yes. Where you've been ? I thought you'd fallen through a black hole, “ she joked on opening the door.
“ Here's your stuff, Chloe, “ said a sobered Lex, handing her the bag.
“ What's the matter, Lex ? “ asked Chloe, sensing his discomfiture.
“ My father's just stopped by. “
“ Lionel ? What did he want ? “ asked an outraged Chloe.
“ He wants me back at Luthorcorp. “
“ And what did you say ? “
“ Not in a million years, Chloe, “ he replied bitterly.
“ Promise me something, Lex. Listen to Martha's advice- she means well. Your father's not worth it. Remember what Lionel's done to you, Lex. Loving your children as you do you wouldn't like them to have a parent consumed by hatred as yours. “
“ You're a wonderful friend, Chloe, and I wish you all the best, “ answered Lex wrapping her in a brotherly embrace.
CHAPTER 5: Chancing upon an Old Friend
Three years later
It was snowing heavily over the streets of Metropolis and Chloe had just bought the last Christmas present on her shopping list when a sixth-sense told her to stop in her tracks and turn around. She was almost certain he had recognised her despite the winter woolen cap and the new hairstyle. She remembered from experience that there was nothing in this world that escaped his radar, and her pathetic attempt at passing unnoticed in Metropolis was no challenge to his sharp eyes- or rather, to those two pairs of eyes, for the son seemed to have inherited the father's extraordinary gift of observation.
“ Aunt Chloe ! Aunt Chloe ! “ shouted the boy, letting go of his father's hand.
Chloe stood still and, setting the bags on the pavement, got herself ready for the boy's heart-felt embrace.
“ My, my, Alex. Look what Santa's brought you ! “ exclaimed a smiling Lex walking towards them with a tiny hand clasped tightly in his.
“ Are you coming to Smallville, Aunt Chloe ? “ asked Alex enthusiastically.
“I... “ mumbled Chloe.
“ Don't overwhelm her with questions, son. And give her some breathing space. You're choking her ! “ exclaimed Lex.
“ It's all right, Alex. I've missed you, too ! “
“ Is it true you've been to all those places , the ones you sent me postcards from ? “
“ Yep. The globetrotting reporter, they've dubbed me !” said Chloe smiling at Lex over Alex's head. “ Now, let me say hello to the rest of the family, honey, “ she said taking him by the hand and coming closer to Lex. “ And who might this beautiful lady be ? “ she asked to the girl pressed against Lex's right leg.
“ She's rather shy, “ answered Lex, lifting her up.
“ It's OK. I like mysterious little girls, “ smiled Chloe when the girl hid her face against her father's neck.
“ Won't you say hello to Aunt Chloe, Lilly ? “ asked Lex.
“ It's all right, Lex. Don't press her. She'll do it when she's ready,“ answered Chloe kissing the top of her head.
“ I'm jealous, Chloe ! You've kissed and hugged my two children. What about me ? “ said a seemingly offended Lex.
“ And what have you done to deserve a kiss ? “
“ I've been listening to a friend's advice, “ he answered gravely.
“ Well, then I guess you've earned it, “ she said, grazing his cheek.
The scent of vanilla, fresh laundry and baby cologne invaded her nostrils and caused an unexpected tremor in her, which she covered up hurriedly by saying: “ It's freezing cold ! What would you say if I bought you three a cup of hot cocoa ? “
“ I'd say... we'd love to, “ he answered with his knee-weakening smile.
The coffee shop they sat in had been one of Chloe's favourite places in the city while she was studying journalism at MetU. Not only did it brew the best coffee and chocolate in town but offered its clients a wonderful assortment of books to browse or read at their pleasure. Chloe was pleased to see Alex shared his parents' passion for books for, as soon as he'd finished his cocoa and buns, he asked Lex's permission to be excused and took little Lilly away.
“ He's an avid reader and there's nothing he enjoys more than reading to his sister, “ said Lex, looking at Alex regaling Lillian's ears with one of Beatrix Potter's children books.
“ I hope you haven't made him read ' The Art of War ' yet, “ said Chloe ironically.
“ You should know me better than that. “
“ I was joking... “
“ I know, “ answered Lex looking at her straight in the eye. “ How are you doing, Chloe ? “
“ I'm fine, Lex. “
“ Are you ? Really ? Have you heard the news ? “
“ I have. “
“ Does it bother you ? “
“ I've finally realised I'm over him and I wish them both happiness. It wasn't meant to be, Lex. And you were right. Clark's not the only guy in this world. “
“ Is there anyone on the horizon ? “
“ There might be, “ she confessed, lowering her eyes.
“ Do I know him ? “ he asked with a smirk.
“ You cannot help your nature, Lex. You should have been a reporter. Why are you asking me so many questions ? “
“ Just curious, “ he shrugged his shoulders. “What happened to that Daily Planet photographer... James Olsen, wasn't it ? “
“ Jimmy ? Where do you know him from ? “
“ Clark mentioned him. He said you used to date. “
“ We went out a couple of times during my internship but it wasn't anything serious. He made me feel I was the one wearing the pants and- though I consider myself modern- that's not what I look for in a relationship. “
“ You prefer the man to lead ? “
“ Don't get me wrong, Lex. I believe in sexual equality but I still want to feel I'm a woman. “
“ Were you this frank with him ? “
“ Poor Jimmy. He was a darling. No, I didn't have the heart to tell him the truth. I just said we weren't compatible. “
“ Well, I'm not surprised. You've always been the diplomatic cousin. “
“ Yeah, Lois' too straightforward. “
“ Maybe there lies the key to happiness, Chloe. We two are too reserved and cerebral. We think too much. My father used to say my weakness resided in my letting emotions control me, but I disagree. I was never happier than the moment I allowed my heart to make the greatest decision in my life. And despite what happened three years ago I don't regret it. Don't get me wrong... I still miss her and wish she were alive. But then, I look at Alex and Lilly and realise it was worth it. “
“ I wish I had your courage, Lex. “
“You just have to take the leap. “
“ It's easier said than done. “
“ And that coming from the intrepid reporter who dared expose the CEO of Luthorcorp in a much publicised book ? “
“ I couldn't have done it without your help, Lex. “
“ Well, look for me when you're ready to jump next time. You know where to find me, Chloe, “ he said cryptically.
Lex's words could be interpreted in a number of ways and Chloe was so confused by what their chance meeting had made her feel that she daren't ask him for clarification. It wouldn't be the first time she built a mountain out of a molehill, and she didn't want to make a fool of herself. ' You're seeing things that aren't there, Sullivan. Blame it on the caffeine. Wake up to reality! He was just offering a hand to help you with your career, wasn't he ? '
What do you think of Lex and Chloe's relationship so far ?
CHAPTERS 6 & 7