In Love ... All Bets Are Off Chapter 4
Another chapter is here! I hope you all like it! Enjoy and let me know what you think!
Story: In Love … All Bets Are Off
Pairing/Characters: Clark/Oliver, Clark/Lex friendship
Rating: R
Disclaimer: don’t own anything
Warning: slash, mentions of m/m sex, jerk!Jason (sorry, I do like him but I needed a villain and he fit)
Spoilers: AU but slight season 1-early season 3 mentions
Summary: Clark’s dad dies when he’s in high school. Martha and Clark sell the farm and leave to live with Clark’s grandfather, Clark transferring to Excelsior. Excelsior … where Oliver Queen rules the school. Oliver takes a bet that he can get the new guy in his bed … but what happens when he ends up falling in love instead?
Previous Chapters: Here
Chapter 4
“This is your class,” Oliver told Clark, as they approached one of the rooms.
“Thanks, but you didn’t have to walk me here,” Clark told him, with a small smile.
“It was no problem,” Oliver replied, “I’m your guide, remember?”
“Thank you for that too,” Clark told him, his tone completely sincere.
“You’re welcome,” Oliver said. And what was it about this guy? Usually, he’d be using all his best lines by now … have him completely wrapped around his finger. But Clark Kent really was proving to be different than the rest.
Which scared him completely. He seemed like the type of guy who could get under his skin … and Oliver had done so well over the years in keeping up a façade, had formed a shell that was nearly impossible to crack, that the idea of anyone getting close frightened him to no end.
Oliver had made sure he was the one to be Clark’s guide … had specifically volunteered for him. When he picked him up, he was shocked at how hostile Clark was … and his reactions to his statements never ceased to puzzle Ollie.
Clark didn’t care about money, about popularity, about status … he was different than anyone Oliver had ever met.
Though he was relieved that they managed to get along, Ollie could tell Clark was still wary about him. Well, he was Clark’s assigned “guide” this entire semester so he would make sure they saw each other a lot more.
Yeah, you need to do so for the bet. Oh yeah, the bet. Oliver was shocked that he had completely forgotten about the bet with Jason. Observing Clark’s innocent expression, Oliver felt a tad bit of something he was shocked to find was guilt.
Don’t do that Queen … this is just another notch to your bedpost … don’t start getting attached now.
It was better this way … yes, his original plan stood. Clark Kent would be his. He was a challenge and Oliver Queen never backed away from challenges.
“Oliver,” Clark’s voice brought him back to reality. “You still there?”
“Yeah, I’m here,” Oliver said, forcing a smile. “I should get to class … have a good day, Clark.”
“You too, Oliver,” Clark responded. Ollie waited until Clark had stepped into the classroom before making a motion to leave.
He started walking toward his own class when a voice stopped him in his tracks.
“Fast work, Queen … never thought you’d move that quickly.”
Turning around, a sneer marring his handsome features, he bit out, “Well, Teague, I guess you realize your own foolishness for underestimating me.”
Amused hazel eyes met his brown ones.
“Even I have to admit,” Jason said, “that I’m impressed with the whole being his guide … placing yourself in a position of trust … you’re more manipulative than I thought.”
“Glad to see you’re seeing the light,” Oliver said, “And I don’t see it as manipulative as much as resourceful.”
“You would,” Jason stated. “However, the truth of the matter is it was quite dirty and underhanded.”
“There are no rules to this bet,” Oliver reminded him. “You just said get him into bed … and I’m well on my way there.”
“No rules, eh?” Jason asked, “Then … let the games begin.”
Oliver’s eyes narrowed at Jason’s tone. “What the hell are you planning?”
“Planning?” Jason repeated, an innocent look on his face though Oliver knew that his thoughts were anything but. “I don’t plan.”
“Don’t go near him Teague,” Oliver warned, “He’s mine.”
“No rules, Ollie … your words,” Jason declared, “Be prepared to face the consequences.”
“Touch him and,” Oliver started but was quickly cut off.
“Well, well, well,” Jason said slowly, “Will the new guy just find a place in your bed, Ollie? Because it seems to me that there’s something more … has Clark Kent managed to make his way into your heart? Are you falling for him?”
“Hardly,” Oliver scoffed.
Jason was snickering now, his eyes full of mirth.
“I saw the two of you today … laughing and joking,” Jason said. “And at breakfast? You have to admit that you both looked rather cozy.”
“You don’t know what you’re talking about,” Oliver told him, his voice betraying none of the nervousness he felt inside.
He remembered breakfast though … he had insisted Clark join him, sitting with the younger man and not even joining his friends.
The brunet was good company and he found he was really easy to talk to. But that didn’t mean what Jason was saying was true, did it? No, he was in it for the sex … he was just trying to win Clark over. This morning had been an extension of that plan … nothing else.
“Oliver,” Jason was saying, “Something tells me this bet has gotten a little more interesting.”
“Nothing’s changed, Teague,” Ollie snapped, “Now if you don’t mind, some of us have to get to class … be prepared to turn over those car keys soon.”
“Good luck,” he heard Jason call out as he walked away, “At not falling in love.” Laughter followed, which made Ollie clench his fists unconsciously.
Love? What was Teague on? No way was he going to fall in love … especially not with Clark Kent.
Maybe he’s not so bad after all. Clark still had his doubts about Oliver but when he was away from his two pals, it seemed the blonde was a lot more tolerable.
Oliver had even shown him to his class and Clark smiled as he remembered how Oliver chose to sit with Clark that morning at breakfast, instead of his friends. He didn’t even drag Clark to sit with all of them, which Clark knew would’ve been an uncomfortable situation.
Perhaps I did judge him too soon. But then the memory of Oliver laughing at a helpless Lex made his way to the forefront of his mind. Immediately, he was conflicted … but he wasn’t given any time to think it over.
The teacher walked in and class started. His first class of the day was Physics … and he was a little embarrassed when his teacher made a note to introduce him to the class. He had a bad feeling this would go on all day.
It wasn’t that awful though … the class went off well and he found that the material wasn’t too complicated. He was confident that he would be able to catch up … sleep wasn’t that important, was it?
His second class was History and he almost jumped for joy when he saw Lex sitting there as he entered the class. Oliver’s thorough explanations of the school and the map assisted in his easy finding of his second course.
Happy to see his friend, he went and took the seat next to Lex.
“Looks like we do have a class together,” Clark said cheerfully, in greeting. But was shocked when Lex hardly looked his way.
“I guess so,” Lex said, his voice distant.
“You okay?” Clark questioned.
“I’m fine.”
Clark was concerned at the stiff reply.
“Okay,” he said doubtfully. He racked his brain from conversation topics, still unsure at the sudden change of behavior from his new friend. Maybe he’s just tired.
“So,” he said, trying again, “Is this teacher any good?”
“He’s all right,” Lex said, still not looking up.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” Clark persisted. “I mean, you’re acting a little off.”
“I told you I’m fine,” came the reply and Clark couldn’t help the surge of annoyance that ran through his veins.
“I thought we were friends,” Clark said, frowning. “Just yesterday, we were cool and today, you’re acting like we barely know each other.”
“We do barely know each other,” Lex pointed out, glancing at him, blue-grey eyes flashing, “And besides, it doesn’t matter, anyway. I’m sure you and your new pal, Oliver Queen, can laugh about it later.”
“What?” Clark said, startled and completely caught off guard by Lex’s response.
Lex just turned away and before Clark could try and question him further, their teacher arrived, forcing Clark to pay attention.
But throughout the class, he shot concerned looks at Lex. Why would Clark think Oliver was his new pal?
Then it dawned on him … Lex might’ve seen them hanging out this morning and assumed the worst. The other man didn’t have any friends before and to see his first real one interacting with his so-called enemy must’ve hurt.
He decided to deal with the situation after class. That was harder than he expected, because as soon as the bell rang and class was dismissed, Lex got out of his seat and headed for the door.
Trying to get to his friend before he disappeared out of sight, all while attempting to maneuver through the group, all heading for the exit, it was difficult to refrain from using a bout of superspeed.
Fortunately, Clark caught up to Lex fairly quickly.
“Hey, Lex,” he said, but Lex didn’t slow down. “Come on, Lex … it’s not what you think.”
This stopped him and the other man turned around, an eyebrow raised.
“It’s not what I think?” Lex echoed. “Clark, I saw you … in fact, a lot of people did. Laughing and chatting with Oliver Queen, the same Oliver Queen that you know torments me on a regular basis, like you’re old buddies. Clearly, you’ve decided to take the route that would lead you to popularity.”
“Hardly,” Clark said, “Do you think I’d betray you that easily? Jump at the chance to rise in the ranks? Is that it? No, Lex … he’s my guide …”
“Your guide,” Lex repeated, now turning a slight shade of red, clearly embarrassed at his previous thoughts. The anger was gone though and for that, Clark was relieved.
“Yes, my guide,” Clark told him. “I found out last night that my guide was Oliver Queen but I had no idea that was him. I was shocked this morning and trust me, I didn’t make it easy. But I figured that he was giving up his time, I should try to be polite.”
“Oh.”
Clark couldn’t help the chuckle which escaped at Lex’s tone. “So we’re good?”
“Yeah, we’re good,” Lex said, averting his eyes. “I’m sorry … I shouldn’t have accused you so quickly.”
“It’s no big deal,” Clark said, smiling. Lex smiled back.
“What do you have next?” Clark questioned.
“Chemistry,” Lex answered. “You?”
“Spanish,” Clark replied. “Catch you at the break?”
“Yeah,” Lex agreed. “See you.”
“Bye,” Clark responded and then headed off in the direction of his Spanish class.
Disaster averted. Thank God for that. He just found a friend with Lex … he didn’t want to lose him just yet, and definitely not because of Oliver Queen.
The rest of the day was drama free and Clark was grateful. His classes went off without a hitch and though he was disappointed that Lex wasn’t in any of his other courses, he did like his teachers and the material seemed not too bad.
He did catch Lex at the break and at lunch again, the two of them just chatting about their day. Clark was careful to avoid the subject of Oliver Queen, not wanting to provoke an argument.
However, the topic ended up coming up after all.
“So what’s your favorite subject?” Clark asked.
“Chemistry,” Lex replied. “You?”
“English,” Clark confessed.
“English, huh?” Lex said, “Interesting.”
“I want to go into journalism,” Clark admitted.
“That’s cool,” Lex said, “Undercover reporting and whatnot?”
“Something like that,” Clark responded, with a smile. “What about you? What do you want to do?”
“My dad wants me to learn to take over the family business,” Lex said, rolling his eyes.
“Is that what you’re going to do?” Clark asked hesitatingly.
“Not if I can help it,” Lex said, “I want to be a scientist …”
Clark grinned. “That’s cool,” he said, but inwardly was cringing. Scientists, or the idea of them, always put a little fear into Clark. Since he found out he was an alien, his worst fear was being put in a lab and tested.
He tried not to show any fear, to avoid raising suspicion and luckily, he was successful. Lex was none the wiser.
“So,” Lex said, breaking the silence, “Oliver is your guide, huh?”
“Yeah,” Clark said, “This entire semester … he’s there to “help me get adjusted” or so the counselors say.”
“You should think about asking for a change,” Lex suggested, “I mean … if you don’t want to deal with him.”
“Nah,” Clark said, with a wave of his hand. “It’s no big deal …” Lex eyed him curiously.
“What I mean,” Clark added hastily, “is that I don’t want to cause any trouble … I mean, he wasn’t all that bad today. I think I’ll survive.”
“If you say so,” Lex said, “But no matter how nice he may seem, he’s dangerous, Clark. Be careful around him and always be wary of his intentions.”
“I’ll do that,” Clark promised. Could he really be that bad? Sure, he was kind of a jerk at times but Lex made him out to be the devil incarnate. But he didn’t question it … after all, Lex had more experience with Oliver than he did.
If he said that Oliver was trouble, then maybe it was best Clark limited their interactions.
After Clark’s promise, the subject was dropped and they were back to casual chatter, which Clark preferred.
He went through his final two classes and then, decided to wander around the campus for a bit. Remembering Oliver’s words about the library, he went there.
The library, he found, was indeed even better from the inside. He was awed by the sheer amount of books there was and immediately began to explore.
Clark was making his way through the different sections, mentally storing to memory the sections that he knew would come handy for some of his classes, when a familiar blond caught his eye.
Part of him was tempted to just turn around and run away before Oliver could spot him, because his guide was currently engrossed in a book, not even having seen him.
What possessed him to walk toward Oliver, he had no idea but before he could stop himself, he was a few feet away from the blond, trying to get his attention.
“So when you said you spent time in the library, you weren’t kidding.”
Oliver looked up, surprised and he smiled at seeing Clark.
“Hi there,” Oliver said. “You’re here.”
“Well you did say the library was even better on the inside,” Clark reminded him, closing the remaining distance between them. “So I had to come check it out.”
“Glad you decided to take my recommendation,” Oliver replied. “How was your first day of class?”
“It was good,” Clark said.
“Great,” Oliver said, “Getting adjusted then?”
“I’m trying,” Clark said. “It seems though that there is a ton of work I have to catch up on.”
“If you ever want, I could help you out,” Oliver offered.
“I’ll keep that in mind,” Clark responded. “Thanks.”
In the back of his mind, Lex’s warning came back to him but he figured Oliver couldn’t have an evil motivations behind wanting to help Clark catch up. Guides were supposed to help the new student settle in … nothing odd about that.
“You seemed rather engrossed in that book,” Clark commented.
“This one?” Oliver said, referring to the book in his hands. “Yeah … it’s interesting.” He showed Clark the cover and Clark found it was about archery.
“Are you into archery?” Clark asked.
“Very much so,” Oliver said, with a nod. “I’ve been that way since I was a kid … I’m actually captain of the archery team here at school.”
“I didn’t even know there was an archery team,” Clark admitted.
Oliver chuckled. “Yeah, there is … I love the subject and I love participating in it.”
“I never would’ve thought you an archery man,” Clark told him.
“Well, there’s a lot about me that you don’t know,” Oliver said mysteriously. “You should come and check out one of the tournaments sometime.”
“I just might do that,” Clark found himself saying. What are you doing? That’s not limiting your interactions!
Oliver beamed, pleased with his answer. There was that gorgeous smile again … the one that did things to Clark that even he didn’t understand.
“Come on,” Oliver said, “I’ll show you around the library.”
Clark didn’t even think twice about following him. Even though his mind said that he should turn him down, Clark really didn’t want to.
So he ignored his mind and let Oliver take him around.
The library was confusing anyway and it was good to have someone experienced point out all the important parts.
He was just making use of his guide; that was all. His quick agreement had nothing to do with that funny feeling in his stomach when Oliver smiled at him or the racing of his pulse when Oliver said his name.
Nope, not at all.
Hopefully, he wouldn’t come to regret this.
Chapter 5
Story: In Love … All Bets Are Off
Pairing/Characters: Clark/Oliver, Clark/Lex friendship
Rating: R
Disclaimer: don’t own anything
Warning: slash, mentions of m/m sex, jerk!Jason (sorry, I do like him but I needed a villain and he fit)
Spoilers: AU but slight season 1-early season 3 mentions
Summary: Clark’s dad dies when he’s in high school. Martha and Clark sell the farm and leave to live with Clark’s grandfather, Clark transferring to Excelsior. Excelsior … where Oliver Queen rules the school. Oliver takes a bet that he can get the new guy in his bed … but what happens when he ends up falling in love instead?
Previous Chapters: Here
Chapter 4
“This is your class,” Oliver told Clark, as they approached one of the rooms.
“Thanks, but you didn’t have to walk me here,” Clark told him, with a small smile.
“It was no problem,” Oliver replied, “I’m your guide, remember?”
“Thank you for that too,” Clark told him, his tone completely sincere.
“You’re welcome,” Oliver said. And what was it about this guy? Usually, he’d be using all his best lines by now … have him completely wrapped around his finger. But Clark Kent really was proving to be different than the rest.
Which scared him completely. He seemed like the type of guy who could get under his skin … and Oliver had done so well over the years in keeping up a façade, had formed a shell that was nearly impossible to crack, that the idea of anyone getting close frightened him to no end.
Oliver had made sure he was the one to be Clark’s guide … had specifically volunteered for him. When he picked him up, he was shocked at how hostile Clark was … and his reactions to his statements never ceased to puzzle Ollie.
Clark didn’t care about money, about popularity, about status … he was different than anyone Oliver had ever met.
Though he was relieved that they managed to get along, Ollie could tell Clark was still wary about him. Well, he was Clark’s assigned “guide” this entire semester so he would make sure they saw each other a lot more.
Yeah, you need to do so for the bet. Oh yeah, the bet. Oliver was shocked that he had completely forgotten about the bet with Jason. Observing Clark’s innocent expression, Oliver felt a tad bit of something he was shocked to find was guilt.
Don’t do that Queen … this is just another notch to your bedpost … don’t start getting attached now.
It was better this way … yes, his original plan stood. Clark Kent would be his. He was a challenge and Oliver Queen never backed away from challenges.
“Oliver,” Clark’s voice brought him back to reality. “You still there?”
“Yeah, I’m here,” Oliver said, forcing a smile. “I should get to class … have a good day, Clark.”
“You too, Oliver,” Clark responded. Ollie waited until Clark had stepped into the classroom before making a motion to leave.
He started walking toward his own class when a voice stopped him in his tracks.
“Fast work, Queen … never thought you’d move that quickly.”
Turning around, a sneer marring his handsome features, he bit out, “Well, Teague, I guess you realize your own foolishness for underestimating me.”
Amused hazel eyes met his brown ones.
“Even I have to admit,” Jason said, “that I’m impressed with the whole being his guide … placing yourself in a position of trust … you’re more manipulative than I thought.”
“Glad to see you’re seeing the light,” Oliver said, “And I don’t see it as manipulative as much as resourceful.”
“You would,” Jason stated. “However, the truth of the matter is it was quite dirty and underhanded.”
“There are no rules to this bet,” Oliver reminded him. “You just said get him into bed … and I’m well on my way there.”
“No rules, eh?” Jason asked, “Then … let the games begin.”
Oliver’s eyes narrowed at Jason’s tone. “What the hell are you planning?”
“Planning?” Jason repeated, an innocent look on his face though Oliver knew that his thoughts were anything but. “I don’t plan.”
“Don’t go near him Teague,” Oliver warned, “He’s mine.”
“No rules, Ollie … your words,” Jason declared, “Be prepared to face the consequences.”
“Touch him and,” Oliver started but was quickly cut off.
“Well, well, well,” Jason said slowly, “Will the new guy just find a place in your bed, Ollie? Because it seems to me that there’s something more … has Clark Kent managed to make his way into your heart? Are you falling for him?”
“Hardly,” Oliver scoffed.
Jason was snickering now, his eyes full of mirth.
“I saw the two of you today … laughing and joking,” Jason said. “And at breakfast? You have to admit that you both looked rather cozy.”
“You don’t know what you’re talking about,” Oliver told him, his voice betraying none of the nervousness he felt inside.
He remembered breakfast though … he had insisted Clark join him, sitting with the younger man and not even joining his friends.
The brunet was good company and he found he was really easy to talk to. But that didn’t mean what Jason was saying was true, did it? No, he was in it for the sex … he was just trying to win Clark over. This morning had been an extension of that plan … nothing else.
“Oliver,” Jason was saying, “Something tells me this bet has gotten a little more interesting.”
“Nothing’s changed, Teague,” Ollie snapped, “Now if you don’t mind, some of us have to get to class … be prepared to turn over those car keys soon.”
“Good luck,” he heard Jason call out as he walked away, “At not falling in love.” Laughter followed, which made Ollie clench his fists unconsciously.
Love? What was Teague on? No way was he going to fall in love … especially not with Clark Kent.
Maybe he’s not so bad after all. Clark still had his doubts about Oliver but when he was away from his two pals, it seemed the blonde was a lot more tolerable.
Oliver had even shown him to his class and Clark smiled as he remembered how Oliver chose to sit with Clark that morning at breakfast, instead of his friends. He didn’t even drag Clark to sit with all of them, which Clark knew would’ve been an uncomfortable situation.
Perhaps I did judge him too soon. But then the memory of Oliver laughing at a helpless Lex made his way to the forefront of his mind. Immediately, he was conflicted … but he wasn’t given any time to think it over.
The teacher walked in and class started. His first class of the day was Physics … and he was a little embarrassed when his teacher made a note to introduce him to the class. He had a bad feeling this would go on all day.
It wasn’t that awful though … the class went off well and he found that the material wasn’t too complicated. He was confident that he would be able to catch up … sleep wasn’t that important, was it?
His second class was History and he almost jumped for joy when he saw Lex sitting there as he entered the class. Oliver’s thorough explanations of the school and the map assisted in his easy finding of his second course.
Happy to see his friend, he went and took the seat next to Lex.
“Looks like we do have a class together,” Clark said cheerfully, in greeting. But was shocked when Lex hardly looked his way.
“I guess so,” Lex said, his voice distant.
“You okay?” Clark questioned.
“I’m fine.”
Clark was concerned at the stiff reply.
“Okay,” he said doubtfully. He racked his brain from conversation topics, still unsure at the sudden change of behavior from his new friend. Maybe he’s just tired.
“So,” he said, trying again, “Is this teacher any good?”
“He’s all right,” Lex said, still not looking up.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” Clark persisted. “I mean, you’re acting a little off.”
“I told you I’m fine,” came the reply and Clark couldn’t help the surge of annoyance that ran through his veins.
“I thought we were friends,” Clark said, frowning. “Just yesterday, we were cool and today, you’re acting like we barely know each other.”
“We do barely know each other,” Lex pointed out, glancing at him, blue-grey eyes flashing, “And besides, it doesn’t matter, anyway. I’m sure you and your new pal, Oliver Queen, can laugh about it later.”
“What?” Clark said, startled and completely caught off guard by Lex’s response.
Lex just turned away and before Clark could try and question him further, their teacher arrived, forcing Clark to pay attention.
But throughout the class, he shot concerned looks at Lex. Why would Clark think Oliver was his new pal?
Then it dawned on him … Lex might’ve seen them hanging out this morning and assumed the worst. The other man didn’t have any friends before and to see his first real one interacting with his so-called enemy must’ve hurt.
He decided to deal with the situation after class. That was harder than he expected, because as soon as the bell rang and class was dismissed, Lex got out of his seat and headed for the door.
Trying to get to his friend before he disappeared out of sight, all while attempting to maneuver through the group, all heading for the exit, it was difficult to refrain from using a bout of superspeed.
Fortunately, Clark caught up to Lex fairly quickly.
“Hey, Lex,” he said, but Lex didn’t slow down. “Come on, Lex … it’s not what you think.”
This stopped him and the other man turned around, an eyebrow raised.
“It’s not what I think?” Lex echoed. “Clark, I saw you … in fact, a lot of people did. Laughing and chatting with Oliver Queen, the same Oliver Queen that you know torments me on a regular basis, like you’re old buddies. Clearly, you’ve decided to take the route that would lead you to popularity.”
“Hardly,” Clark said, “Do you think I’d betray you that easily? Jump at the chance to rise in the ranks? Is that it? No, Lex … he’s my guide …”
“Your guide,” Lex repeated, now turning a slight shade of red, clearly embarrassed at his previous thoughts. The anger was gone though and for that, Clark was relieved.
“Yes, my guide,” Clark told him. “I found out last night that my guide was Oliver Queen but I had no idea that was him. I was shocked this morning and trust me, I didn’t make it easy. But I figured that he was giving up his time, I should try to be polite.”
“Oh.”
Clark couldn’t help the chuckle which escaped at Lex’s tone. “So we’re good?”
“Yeah, we’re good,” Lex said, averting his eyes. “I’m sorry … I shouldn’t have accused you so quickly.”
“It’s no big deal,” Clark said, smiling. Lex smiled back.
“What do you have next?” Clark questioned.
“Chemistry,” Lex answered. “You?”
“Spanish,” Clark replied. “Catch you at the break?”
“Yeah,” Lex agreed. “See you.”
“Bye,” Clark responded and then headed off in the direction of his Spanish class.
Disaster averted. Thank God for that. He just found a friend with Lex … he didn’t want to lose him just yet, and definitely not because of Oliver Queen.
The rest of the day was drama free and Clark was grateful. His classes went off without a hitch and though he was disappointed that Lex wasn’t in any of his other courses, he did like his teachers and the material seemed not too bad.
He did catch Lex at the break and at lunch again, the two of them just chatting about their day. Clark was careful to avoid the subject of Oliver Queen, not wanting to provoke an argument.
However, the topic ended up coming up after all.
“So what’s your favorite subject?” Clark asked.
“Chemistry,” Lex replied. “You?”
“English,” Clark confessed.
“English, huh?” Lex said, “Interesting.”
“I want to go into journalism,” Clark admitted.
“That’s cool,” Lex said, “Undercover reporting and whatnot?”
“Something like that,” Clark responded, with a smile. “What about you? What do you want to do?”
“My dad wants me to learn to take over the family business,” Lex said, rolling his eyes.
“Is that what you’re going to do?” Clark asked hesitatingly.
“Not if I can help it,” Lex said, “I want to be a scientist …”
Clark grinned. “That’s cool,” he said, but inwardly was cringing. Scientists, or the idea of them, always put a little fear into Clark. Since he found out he was an alien, his worst fear was being put in a lab and tested.
He tried not to show any fear, to avoid raising suspicion and luckily, he was successful. Lex was none the wiser.
“So,” Lex said, breaking the silence, “Oliver is your guide, huh?”
“Yeah,” Clark said, “This entire semester … he’s there to “help me get adjusted” or so the counselors say.”
“You should think about asking for a change,” Lex suggested, “I mean … if you don’t want to deal with him.”
“Nah,” Clark said, with a wave of his hand. “It’s no big deal …” Lex eyed him curiously.
“What I mean,” Clark added hastily, “is that I don’t want to cause any trouble … I mean, he wasn’t all that bad today. I think I’ll survive.”
“If you say so,” Lex said, “But no matter how nice he may seem, he’s dangerous, Clark. Be careful around him and always be wary of his intentions.”
“I’ll do that,” Clark promised. Could he really be that bad? Sure, he was kind of a jerk at times but Lex made him out to be the devil incarnate. But he didn’t question it … after all, Lex had more experience with Oliver than he did.
If he said that Oliver was trouble, then maybe it was best Clark limited their interactions.
After Clark’s promise, the subject was dropped and they were back to casual chatter, which Clark preferred.
He went through his final two classes and then, decided to wander around the campus for a bit. Remembering Oliver’s words about the library, he went there.
The library, he found, was indeed even better from the inside. He was awed by the sheer amount of books there was and immediately began to explore.
Clark was making his way through the different sections, mentally storing to memory the sections that he knew would come handy for some of his classes, when a familiar blond caught his eye.
Part of him was tempted to just turn around and run away before Oliver could spot him, because his guide was currently engrossed in a book, not even having seen him.
What possessed him to walk toward Oliver, he had no idea but before he could stop himself, he was a few feet away from the blond, trying to get his attention.
“So when you said you spent time in the library, you weren’t kidding.”
Oliver looked up, surprised and he smiled at seeing Clark.
“Hi there,” Oliver said. “You’re here.”
“Well you did say the library was even better on the inside,” Clark reminded him, closing the remaining distance between them. “So I had to come check it out.”
“Glad you decided to take my recommendation,” Oliver replied. “How was your first day of class?”
“It was good,” Clark said.
“Great,” Oliver said, “Getting adjusted then?”
“I’m trying,” Clark said. “It seems though that there is a ton of work I have to catch up on.”
“If you ever want, I could help you out,” Oliver offered.
“I’ll keep that in mind,” Clark responded. “Thanks.”
In the back of his mind, Lex’s warning came back to him but he figured Oliver couldn’t have an evil motivations behind wanting to help Clark catch up. Guides were supposed to help the new student settle in … nothing odd about that.
“You seemed rather engrossed in that book,” Clark commented.
“This one?” Oliver said, referring to the book in his hands. “Yeah … it’s interesting.” He showed Clark the cover and Clark found it was about archery.
“Are you into archery?” Clark asked.
“Very much so,” Oliver said, with a nod. “I’ve been that way since I was a kid … I’m actually captain of the archery team here at school.”
“I didn’t even know there was an archery team,” Clark admitted.
Oliver chuckled. “Yeah, there is … I love the subject and I love participating in it.”
“I never would’ve thought you an archery man,” Clark told him.
“Well, there’s a lot about me that you don’t know,” Oliver said mysteriously. “You should come and check out one of the tournaments sometime.”
“I just might do that,” Clark found himself saying. What are you doing? That’s not limiting your interactions!
Oliver beamed, pleased with his answer. There was that gorgeous smile again … the one that did things to Clark that even he didn’t understand.
“Come on,” Oliver said, “I’ll show you around the library.”
Clark didn’t even think twice about following him. Even though his mind said that he should turn him down, Clark really didn’t want to.
So he ignored his mind and let Oliver take him around.
The library was confusing anyway and it was good to have someone experienced point out all the important parts.
He was just making use of his guide; that was all. His quick agreement had nothing to do with that funny feeling in his stomach when Oliver smiled at him or the racing of his pulse when Oliver said his name.
Nope, not at all.
Hopefully, he wouldn’t come to regret this.
Chapter 5