Fic: Do You Believe in Fate (8/?)
Title: Do You Believe in Fate? (8/?)
Author: Babette babettew54
Category: Smallville
Characters: Clark Luthor/Alt-Lois Lane, Jonathan/Martha, Perry White, Jimmy Olsen, Bruce Wayne, Tess Luthor
Rating: M
Word Count: 3,500
Disclaimer: DC Comics/Warner Brothers owns these characters. No profit is being made from this story. This is strictly for my own amusement.
Author’s Notes: In this next chapter, Lois and Clark try to work out their differences, Cadmus Labs is full of unsuspecting and dangerous revelations, and later the team’s worst fears are realized. Please read and review. Thanks, everyone! :D
Banner by Ctbn60
Previously:
( Chapter 1)( Chapter 2)( Chapter 3)( Chapter 4) ( Chapter 5)
( Chapter 6)( Chapter 7)
x-posted to: (AO3); (FFN)
Chapter 8: Feel My Love
Moments later, still at the tower:
Stunned, Lois stared at him in shock. She was about to apologize again, when Clark's cellphone rang.
He glanced at the caller ID. It was Tess. "I'll take this over there," he muttered and walked away. "Yes, Tess, what is it?"
Fuming, Lois followed him. She wasn't ease-dropping, she told herself. It could be important.
"What did you just say?" Clark was stunned by her news. "Tess we decided to check out Cadmus Labs together."
A few minutes of listening and then Clark said. "Alright, I'll meet you there in five minutes." He hung up.
"What was that all about?" Lois asked, still suspicious of Tess and her true motives. She was beginning to think that Tess wanted Clark back. Over my dead body, Lois thought.
"Everyone should hear this," he replied and walked past her and then he spoke to the team. "Everyone, I just spoke with Tess, Tess Luthor, and she just left the lab."
"Really, that wasn't a very smart thing to do," Bruce said.
"I agree, but Tess can be …" He hesitated.
"A busybody and a nuisance….?" Lois finished for him.
Clark tried not to grin. "That's true."
"What did she find out?" Wally asked.
Clark shook his head, still in shock by the news. "Apparently, Lex and Lionel have been busy these past few years." He took a deep breath and told them, "Tess found several clones in the lab."
"Clones … of you?" Lois asked, also shocked.
"Yes, one was full-grown and the other one … was a child."
"A child, but how old is he? I'm assuming it's a boy." Lois had a terrible feeling about all of this.
"Yes, it's a boy," Clark replied then rubbed his eyes, hating to say this, "I have no way of knowing how old he is, but … they both have to be destroyed."
"Destroyed, but …?" Bruce did not like that idea.
"What other choice do we have?" Clark asked the shocked and appalled team.
"Let's not jump to any conclusions. Clinical tests should be run to find out their DNA and, if it's at all possible they could survive. I've read about clones and most of them don't last very long, but that doesn't mean that they won't," Bruce thoughtfully said.
"That's true, Clark. We shouldn't do anything we'll regret," Lois said, but then the look on Clark's face made her regret saying it. "I didn't mean …"
Clark's head snapped up at that remark. "I know what you meant," he snapped. "Look we won't make any decisions until we can check out everything. Now, are we ready to go? First, the lab and then we'll head out to the mine."
"Alright, let's go!" Bruce said as everyone headed out.
Clark spoke to Lois but he couldn't look at her. He did regret snapping at her. None of it was her fault. "I'll see you later," he muttered then left the tower.
Bruce decided he would speak to Clark and set him straight about courtesy and respect. "You can stay here Ms. Lane or I can take you home."
Lois was holding it together, surprisingly. "Please call me Lois, and yes, you can take me home and thank you Batman."
~o~o~
A little while later, at the Lab:
Everyone was busy surveying the lab, locating Tess, who was in her car down the road waiting for them. It was getting late now, close to midnight. She exited her car when she spotted Clark and his new friends.
"Let's get this over with," Tess began.
"First tell us about the clones," Bruce asked. "Are they healthy?"
"For now, yes they are," Tess responded.
Suddenly, Clark could hear noises coming from the lab. "Is anyone else inside?"
"There was no one else there when I left a little while ago."
"Wait here until I can check everything out." Clark didn't wait for a reply but lifted up into the air and flew over the building. Carter and Shiera followed him. Wally checked out the rest of the building which was several floors of space including a basement.
"Guys, we have a problem," Wally said. The back door was ajar and it appeared that the older clone had vanished.
Soon, everyone was inside the lab and tried to find out where the older clone could have gone.
Meanwhile, Tess checked on the younger clone, huddled in a corner appearing afraid of all the noises and people all around him. She came over and squatted down in front of him. "Everything's alright. You're safe now."
He didn't reply but he didn't seem to be afraid of her. Tess sensed his trust in her, and so she helped him to stand. He took her hand surprising her and his grip was very strong. She suddenly knew the truth.
Bruce and Clark found them together. They glanced at each other unsure what to make of the little boy and his apparent attachment to Tess.
"Tess, what are you doing?" Clark asked as he came closer. "He looks like Lex," he whispered annoyed and upset.
"He's a child and he's afraid." She put her arm around him. He snuggled close to her.
"What's your name?" Tess asked the little boy.
He glanced at Clark appearing afraid. "It's alright, answer her."
He turned back to Tess. "Alexander."
Clark gritted his teeth, as the stared at the child.
"It's nice to meet you Alexander," Tess told the little boy.
"Are my brothers Ok?" Alexander asked Clark.
Clark stood up. "We need to check in the basement," Clark said. "Wally, Carter and Shiera check the lower floor."
"Clark, can I speak with you outside for a moment?" Bruce tugged his arm and followed him out into the hall.
"I don't like what I'm seeing," Bruce began.
"What do you mean? It's obvious she's become attached to that … that …"
"He's a clone, Clark."
"I know that."
"What I meant was I don't like how you treated Ms. Lane. None of this is her fault. What were you thinking?"
"I'm still finding it unbelievable that she didn't know about her husband's plans to sell kryptonite to the Luthors."
"Clark, everyone hated Ultra-Man. You know that. She said she knew about the mining, but not about the Luthors. Why don't you believe her?"
He sighed. "I believe her, but …"
"But, there's more, what is it?"
He hated saying it, "It's Ultra-Man."
"But he's gone." Bruce paused. "Isn't he?"
"Yes, he's gone, but it feels as if he's there between us." Frustrated, he ran his hands through his hair. "I can't explain it."
Suddenly, Wally announced that there were more clones in the basement, but that they were all dead. He also showed them several folders containing notes from various scientists and there were also test results. "Look at this. The DNA results appear to be conclusive. The younger clone has your DNA Clark as well as Lex Luthor. He also has your memories and Lex's memories as well."
Clark couldn't believe it. "So, the Luthors cloned me without my knowledge. I should not be surprised but I am. They were truly insane to do something like this." What else have they done? Clark wondered.
Tess came out into the hall with her arm around little Lex. "Yes, they were insane, but we have to help him. We have to."
Bruce read the fine print in the file. "The older clone did not come together as the scientists had hoped. He's … unstable, uncontrollable, incapable of feelings, and he could do anything … now he's on the loose."
"Where could he have gone?" Clark wondered aloud and then he had a terrible thought. "Lois!"
Then he was gone.
~o~o~
Meanwhile, in Lois's apartment:
Lois was exhausted. She had just finished taking a shower and she was sitting in front of her vanity mirror brushing her hair. Still on the verge of tears, she convinced herself that Clark was just worried about her involvement in Oliver's life. It was jealousy, or maybe it was too soon for them to be so involved in each other's lives. No, she really didn't believe that. We need each other. It's just a misunderstanding. We'll work it out. If he showed up right now, I would take him back. I would forgive him. I would.
Suddenly, she heard a noise. Her heart lifted knowing it was him. She left the bathroom and went into the living room. That's odd, she thought. That window is always closed.
"Clark, are you here?" No answer. Suddenly suspicious, she backed up and ran into her bedroom, closed and locked the door. She tried to move the dresser but it was too heavy.
Grabbing her cellphone by the bed, she dialed Clark's number. Suddenly, the door crashed open and a man walked in. He was wearing dark clothing, he was bald but the sneer on his face sent chills down her spine.
"What do you want? Who are you?"
He cocked his head to the side. "We were brothers, but he killed me."
No, it couldn't be, she thought. "Lex? What happened to you?"
"I've evolved, and with age, comes wisdom." He paused as he cocked his head to the side again. "You're his greatest weakness."
Lois shook her head. "But Clark and I … we …"
"He wants you. He told me countless times in the past. He hasn't changed."
Lois was shocked to hear this, but inside she knew it was true.
He came closer. "Your death will finally break him."
Lois could not move fast enough then she felt his hands around her throat. She couldn't breathe. She was going to pass out.
"Get away from her!" Clark demanded as he came in through the bedroom window. He pulled him away from her and shoved him against the wall. Lex landed with a thud then he fell to the floor.
Lois collapsed but Clark caught her before she could fall. She could still feel Lex's hands around her throat. She coughed and her eyes watered.
"Are you alright?" He held her close. His terror at seeing Lex strangling her turned his heart to ice. He could have lost her, all because of his stubbornness and jealousy.
"I think so, but he says ... his name is Lex," Lois replied.
"He's a clone, Lois."
Lex slowly stood up but leaned against the wall for support. He watched them together. "You've changed, Clark, I can feel it."
Clark stood up bringing Lois with him holding her close. "Yes, I've changed." He gave him a pitying look. "You're not well. Let me help you."
The clone barked with laughter. "You've definitely changed, but I don't need your help." Suddenly, he began to cough and sputter as blood dripped from his nose then he collapsed. Clark caught him before he hit the floor.
Lex opened his eyes after a minute. "You will never be able … to please him."
Clark was confused. "Who do you mean?"
"Jor-El."
Clark frowned. He didn't believe that. "That's not true. He will be proud of me."
"Arrogance and pride … will be … your downfall. I know this … I know this." The Lex clone then took his last breath.
Clark sighed as he turned to Lois. "He's gone." He picked him up. "I'll be back. Are you sure you're alright?"
"Yes, I'm fine," Lois said and watched as he drifted out the window.
Lois ran to the window but he was gone.
~o~o~
When Clark returned to the lab with the deceased clone, only Wally and Bruce were still there.
"Is he dead?" Bruce asked.
"Yes, he's gone." He laid the clone on a slap. "I'll bury him out back."
"Clark, under the circumstances, it's best that he be cremated.
"I suppose you're right." He looked around. "Where's Tess?"
"She took the younger clone with her," Wally replied.
Clark shook his head. "I don't know if that's such a good idea."
"She couldn't leave him here, but this place … you were right, it has to be destroyed."
"I know. You two should leave. This won't take long."
Bruce squeezed his shoulder. "Come on, Wally."
Minutes later, Cadmus Labs burned to the ground.
As they watched it burn, Clark was thoughtful. "I need to apologize to Lois, beg her to forgive me."
"That's definitely a start," Bruce commented with a grin.
"First thing tomorrow, we'll meet at the mine."
"Good luck, Clark."
"Thanks, Bruce."
~o~o~
Meanwhile, back at Lois' apartment:
It was now after two a.m. in the morning and Lois was trying really hard to keep her eyes open. She desperately wanted to stay awake so she and Clark could talk. They needed to talk badly. Minutes later, she was asleep, but then she was awakened by kisses on her cheek, her ear and then she instinctively pulled him close and kissed him back, stroked his bare arms and strong throat.
She suddenly tried to push him away. "Clark, we need to talk."
He pulled back and stroked her hair away from her forehead. "I know."
"Then you know I should kick you out of my bed right now, but … since you did save my life, you can stay but …." She couldn't think when he was this close. "Look you're invading my personal space here."
He scooted away from her. "Sorry, I mean … I'm truly sorry Lois for the way I acted at the tower."
"Go on," she whispered not looking at him.
"I believe you. I know now that you couldn't have known about the mineral sales to the Luthors. Oliver kept it from you."
"Go on," she whispered again.
"And I'm sorry I accused you of hating me. I know that's not true."
She closed her eyes for a moment. Hating him never entered her heart even when he was a bad person. "Clark, the clone said some things."
He frowned. "What things?"
"He said that you wanted me even before I married Oliver. Is that true?"
"Yes, it's true. You must have had some idea."
"No, I didn't know."
"Well, I never gave any of you a chance to get to know me. Once the red-k had taken over my life, there really was no looking back." He paused as he stroked her arm. "All the years I spent watching you and wanting you, I felt I wasn't worthy of you. Everyone hated my family and … I hated what I had become."
She frowned. "You use that word a lot … hate."
"I guess I do."
"Well, you should stop using it … and use other words instead."
"Oh, and what words are those?"
Her eyes shifted away from him. "Words like … love, devotion, trust, honesty, and faith. Should I go on?"
"You're right, I know I've been someone you couldn't stand to be around when we were younger, and I understand now why you married Oliver."
"Clark, I have to tell you. Back then, I thought maybe … if things were different. You and I …?"
His eyes lit up like the sun. "You and me?"
"Yeah, you and me … crazy huh?"
"Not crazy at all. I just wish …" He couldn't finish because he couldn't change the past, but learn from it and move on.
She raised his chin, leaned in and kissed him sweetly. "No more wishes Ok, this is real Clark, you and me right now. No more looking back at the past, no more feeling insecure about our feelings because I trust you. Do you trust me?"
"Yes, I trust you."
"Good now, let's get some sleep. We still need to head over to the mine first thing."
"You're not going." Clark was firm in this.
"Of course, I am, it's Oliver's land and it's a part of his estate. I have every right to be there."
Clark groaned to himself. She had a point. "Alright, but you have to listen to me and everyone on the team. They want to protect you and so do I."
"Haven't you learned by now that I don't need protection, I can take care of myself."
"Ok, you won't get any argument from me."
"Good, now, I'm exhausted. Come here." She pulled him close and snuggled close to him.
"Lois, ummm, I thought we could you know, get closer." He smoothed her hair and pulled her close. She was so soft and warm. He was getting excited.
"Oh, you mean sex?" She grinned and pulled him closer, which was driving him crazy.
"Well, ummm …." His heart was pounding so hard.
Lois leaned back and smiled. "Clark, can't you tell when I'm teasing?"
"I'm not sure I like your teasing," he said and then he kissed her. She kissed him back. Lois wasn't exhausted, not anymore.
He slowly lowered his mouth to hers once again, this time kissing her with an intensity that he'd withheld up until this moment. Lois felt desire course through her veins and marveled at the effect his kisses had on her. There's no doubt in her mind that Clark is the best kisser in the world, but then they were both breathless. Clark's kisses became even more intense and he wandered down her throat to her breasts and took a nipple into his mouth swirling his tongue around and around pulling and sucking to his heart's content.
Lois arched her back feeling each pull of his lips clear to her center. "Oh Clark, that feels so good, don't stop," she begged.
"I have no intention of stopping," he said between kisses. Clark was thrilled with her response. He lifted his head to admire the picture she made. Her breasts were flushed and wet from his ministrations, her beautiful head was thrown back on the pillow, and her eyes were shut in anticipation of his next move. "God, you're beautiful," he whispered, as his warm mouth continued down her body. She parted her thighs in invitation to him. Lois gasped when he touched her. Clark inhaled her scent, feeling his cock twitch in response.
Lois was going to scream if he didn't give it to her. "Clark, please," she panted. She felt him settle between her legs. She grabbed his head between her palms and kissed him fisting her hands in his hair clutching him closer. She lifted her arms and legs around him pulling him closer.
Clark couldn't wait any longer. He could hardly hear over the blood pounding in his ears. His hand smoothly stroked down her flat belly feeling the heat and moisture on his fingers. Lois whimpered again. She was slick and ready for him. Clark slowly entered her warm sheath holding still for a moment as her heat closed around his cock. She picked up his rhythm quickly and began to move. Soon they were riding that crest to the stars. He pushed harder and faster and then he could feel her muscles tense as she cried out her climax pulsing through her. He pulled her tighter against him and his climax crashed over him, as they both sighed with bliss. As he began to slowly leave her body, Lois stopped him.
"Don't move … don't let go," she whispered pulling him closer. Lois was still worried about what they would find at the mine.
"Lois, I'm too heavy for you, just …" Clark said but he liked it.
Lois stopped him with a kiss. Clark kissed her back. He found himself hardening again.
"Oh, yes," Lois said feeling him coming to life again.
"You asked for it," Clark smiled and kissed her sweet mouth and the next thing he knew it was morning and Lois was asleep curled up next to him exhausted. He had hurt her enough, but he couldn't seem to stay away from her and apparently she felt the same way about him. He didn't dwell on their deepening feelings too long as Lois sighed against his chest and murmured his name.
Soon, they both fell asleep, but this time was different. Clark's nightmare did not return.
TBC!
~o~o~
Song Inspiration: Crazy for You, Adele.
A/N: Things are moving along pretty quickly now. I may have to split this story into two acts. I'll think on that and make a decision once I move into the next chapter. Stay tuned. Reviews are love. Thanks for reading, everyone.
Author: Babette babettew54
Category: Smallville
Characters: Clark Luthor/Alt-Lois Lane, Jonathan/Martha, Perry White, Jimmy Olsen, Bruce Wayne, Tess Luthor
Rating: M
Word Count: 3,500
Disclaimer: DC Comics/Warner Brothers owns these characters. No profit is being made from this story. This is strictly for my own amusement.
Author’s Notes: In this next chapter, Lois and Clark try to work out their differences, Cadmus Labs is full of unsuspecting and dangerous revelations, and later the team’s worst fears are realized. Please read and review. Thanks, everyone! :D
Banner by Ctbn60
Previously:
( Chapter 1)( Chapter 2)( Chapter 3)( Chapter 4) ( Chapter 5)
( Chapter 6)( Chapter 7)
x-posted to: (AO3); (FFN)
Chapter 8: Feel My Love
Moments later, still at the tower:
Stunned, Lois stared at him in shock. She was about to apologize again, when Clark's cellphone rang.
He glanced at the caller ID. It was Tess. "I'll take this over there," he muttered and walked away. "Yes, Tess, what is it?"
Fuming, Lois followed him. She wasn't ease-dropping, she told herself. It could be important.
"What did you just say?" Clark was stunned by her news. "Tess we decided to check out Cadmus Labs together."
A few minutes of listening and then Clark said. "Alright, I'll meet you there in five minutes." He hung up.
"What was that all about?" Lois asked, still suspicious of Tess and her true motives. She was beginning to think that Tess wanted Clark back. Over my dead body, Lois thought.
"Everyone should hear this," he replied and walked past her and then he spoke to the team. "Everyone, I just spoke with Tess, Tess Luthor, and she just left the lab."
"Really, that wasn't a very smart thing to do," Bruce said.
"I agree, but Tess can be …" He hesitated.
"A busybody and a nuisance….?" Lois finished for him.
Clark tried not to grin. "That's true."
"What did she find out?" Wally asked.
Clark shook his head, still in shock by the news. "Apparently, Lex and Lionel have been busy these past few years." He took a deep breath and told them, "Tess found several clones in the lab."
"Clones … of you?" Lois asked, also shocked.
"Yes, one was full-grown and the other one … was a child."
"A child, but how old is he? I'm assuming it's a boy." Lois had a terrible feeling about all of this.
"Yes, it's a boy," Clark replied then rubbed his eyes, hating to say this, "I have no way of knowing how old he is, but … they both have to be destroyed."
"Destroyed, but …?" Bruce did not like that idea.
"What other choice do we have?" Clark asked the shocked and appalled team.
"Let's not jump to any conclusions. Clinical tests should be run to find out their DNA and, if it's at all possible they could survive. I've read about clones and most of them don't last very long, but that doesn't mean that they won't," Bruce thoughtfully said.
"That's true, Clark. We shouldn't do anything we'll regret," Lois said, but then the look on Clark's face made her regret saying it. "I didn't mean …"
Clark's head snapped up at that remark. "I know what you meant," he snapped. "Look we won't make any decisions until we can check out everything. Now, are we ready to go? First, the lab and then we'll head out to the mine."
"Alright, let's go!" Bruce said as everyone headed out.
Clark spoke to Lois but he couldn't look at her. He did regret snapping at her. None of it was her fault. "I'll see you later," he muttered then left the tower.
Bruce decided he would speak to Clark and set him straight about courtesy and respect. "You can stay here Ms. Lane or I can take you home."
Lois was holding it together, surprisingly. "Please call me Lois, and yes, you can take me home and thank you Batman."
~o~o~
A little while later, at the Lab:
Everyone was busy surveying the lab, locating Tess, who was in her car down the road waiting for them. It was getting late now, close to midnight. She exited her car when she spotted Clark and his new friends.
"Let's get this over with," Tess began.
"First tell us about the clones," Bruce asked. "Are they healthy?"
"For now, yes they are," Tess responded.
Suddenly, Clark could hear noises coming from the lab. "Is anyone else inside?"
"There was no one else there when I left a little while ago."
"Wait here until I can check everything out." Clark didn't wait for a reply but lifted up into the air and flew over the building. Carter and Shiera followed him. Wally checked out the rest of the building which was several floors of space including a basement.
"Guys, we have a problem," Wally said. The back door was ajar and it appeared that the older clone had vanished.
Soon, everyone was inside the lab and tried to find out where the older clone could have gone.
Meanwhile, Tess checked on the younger clone, huddled in a corner appearing afraid of all the noises and people all around him. She came over and squatted down in front of him. "Everything's alright. You're safe now."
He didn't reply but he didn't seem to be afraid of her. Tess sensed his trust in her, and so she helped him to stand. He took her hand surprising her and his grip was very strong. She suddenly knew the truth.
Bruce and Clark found them together. They glanced at each other unsure what to make of the little boy and his apparent attachment to Tess.
"Tess, what are you doing?" Clark asked as he came closer. "He looks like Lex," he whispered annoyed and upset.
"He's a child and he's afraid." She put her arm around him. He snuggled close to her.
"What's your name?" Tess asked the little boy.
He glanced at Clark appearing afraid. "It's alright, answer her."
He turned back to Tess. "Alexander."
Clark gritted his teeth, as the stared at the child.
"It's nice to meet you Alexander," Tess told the little boy.
"Are my brothers Ok?" Alexander asked Clark.
Clark stood up. "We need to check in the basement," Clark said. "Wally, Carter and Shiera check the lower floor."
"Clark, can I speak with you outside for a moment?" Bruce tugged his arm and followed him out into the hall.
"I don't like what I'm seeing," Bruce began.
"What do you mean? It's obvious she's become attached to that … that …"
"He's a clone, Clark."
"I know that."
"What I meant was I don't like how you treated Ms. Lane. None of this is her fault. What were you thinking?"
"I'm still finding it unbelievable that she didn't know about her husband's plans to sell kryptonite to the Luthors."
"Clark, everyone hated Ultra-Man. You know that. She said she knew about the mining, but not about the Luthors. Why don't you believe her?"
He sighed. "I believe her, but …"
"But, there's more, what is it?"
He hated saying it, "It's Ultra-Man."
"But he's gone." Bruce paused. "Isn't he?"
"Yes, he's gone, but it feels as if he's there between us." Frustrated, he ran his hands through his hair. "I can't explain it."
Suddenly, Wally announced that there were more clones in the basement, but that they were all dead. He also showed them several folders containing notes from various scientists and there were also test results. "Look at this. The DNA results appear to be conclusive. The younger clone has your DNA Clark as well as Lex Luthor. He also has your memories and Lex's memories as well."
Clark couldn't believe it. "So, the Luthors cloned me without my knowledge. I should not be surprised but I am. They were truly insane to do something like this." What else have they done? Clark wondered.
Tess came out into the hall with her arm around little Lex. "Yes, they were insane, but we have to help him. We have to."
Bruce read the fine print in the file. "The older clone did not come together as the scientists had hoped. He's … unstable, uncontrollable, incapable of feelings, and he could do anything … now he's on the loose."
"Where could he have gone?" Clark wondered aloud and then he had a terrible thought. "Lois!"
Then he was gone.
~o~o~
Meanwhile, in Lois's apartment:
Lois was exhausted. She had just finished taking a shower and she was sitting in front of her vanity mirror brushing her hair. Still on the verge of tears, she convinced herself that Clark was just worried about her involvement in Oliver's life. It was jealousy, or maybe it was too soon for them to be so involved in each other's lives. No, she really didn't believe that. We need each other. It's just a misunderstanding. We'll work it out. If he showed up right now, I would take him back. I would forgive him. I would.
Suddenly, she heard a noise. Her heart lifted knowing it was him. She left the bathroom and went into the living room. That's odd, she thought. That window is always closed.
"Clark, are you here?" No answer. Suddenly suspicious, she backed up and ran into her bedroom, closed and locked the door. She tried to move the dresser but it was too heavy.
Grabbing her cellphone by the bed, she dialed Clark's number. Suddenly, the door crashed open and a man walked in. He was wearing dark clothing, he was bald but the sneer on his face sent chills down her spine.
"What do you want? Who are you?"
He cocked his head to the side. "We were brothers, but he killed me."
No, it couldn't be, she thought. "Lex? What happened to you?"
"I've evolved, and with age, comes wisdom." He paused as he cocked his head to the side again. "You're his greatest weakness."
Lois shook her head. "But Clark and I … we …"
"He wants you. He told me countless times in the past. He hasn't changed."
Lois was shocked to hear this, but inside she knew it was true.
He came closer. "Your death will finally break him."
Lois could not move fast enough then she felt his hands around her throat. She couldn't breathe. She was going to pass out.
"Get away from her!" Clark demanded as he came in through the bedroom window. He pulled him away from her and shoved him against the wall. Lex landed with a thud then he fell to the floor.
Lois collapsed but Clark caught her before she could fall. She could still feel Lex's hands around her throat. She coughed and her eyes watered.
"Are you alright?" He held her close. His terror at seeing Lex strangling her turned his heart to ice. He could have lost her, all because of his stubbornness and jealousy.
"I think so, but he says ... his name is Lex," Lois replied.
"He's a clone, Lois."
Lex slowly stood up but leaned against the wall for support. He watched them together. "You've changed, Clark, I can feel it."
Clark stood up bringing Lois with him holding her close. "Yes, I've changed." He gave him a pitying look. "You're not well. Let me help you."
The clone barked with laughter. "You've definitely changed, but I don't need your help." Suddenly, he began to cough and sputter as blood dripped from his nose then he collapsed. Clark caught him before he hit the floor.
Lex opened his eyes after a minute. "You will never be able … to please him."
Clark was confused. "Who do you mean?"
"Jor-El."
Clark frowned. He didn't believe that. "That's not true. He will be proud of me."
"Arrogance and pride … will be … your downfall. I know this … I know this." The Lex clone then took his last breath.
Clark sighed as he turned to Lois. "He's gone." He picked him up. "I'll be back. Are you sure you're alright?"
"Yes, I'm fine," Lois said and watched as he drifted out the window.
Lois ran to the window but he was gone.
~o~o~
When Clark returned to the lab with the deceased clone, only Wally and Bruce were still there.
"Is he dead?" Bruce asked.
"Yes, he's gone." He laid the clone on a slap. "I'll bury him out back."
"Clark, under the circumstances, it's best that he be cremated.
"I suppose you're right." He looked around. "Where's Tess?"
"She took the younger clone with her," Wally replied.
Clark shook his head. "I don't know if that's such a good idea."
"She couldn't leave him here, but this place … you were right, it has to be destroyed."
"I know. You two should leave. This won't take long."
Bruce squeezed his shoulder. "Come on, Wally."
Minutes later, Cadmus Labs burned to the ground.
As they watched it burn, Clark was thoughtful. "I need to apologize to Lois, beg her to forgive me."
"That's definitely a start," Bruce commented with a grin.
"First thing tomorrow, we'll meet at the mine."
"Good luck, Clark."
"Thanks, Bruce."
~o~o~
Meanwhile, back at Lois' apartment:
It was now after two a.m. in the morning and Lois was trying really hard to keep her eyes open. She desperately wanted to stay awake so she and Clark could talk. They needed to talk badly. Minutes later, she was asleep, but then she was awakened by kisses on her cheek, her ear and then she instinctively pulled him close and kissed him back, stroked his bare arms and strong throat.
She suddenly tried to push him away. "Clark, we need to talk."
He pulled back and stroked her hair away from her forehead. "I know."
"Then you know I should kick you out of my bed right now, but … since you did save my life, you can stay but …." She couldn't think when he was this close. "Look you're invading my personal space here."
He scooted away from her. "Sorry, I mean … I'm truly sorry Lois for the way I acted at the tower."
"Go on," she whispered not looking at him.
"I believe you. I know now that you couldn't have known about the mineral sales to the Luthors. Oliver kept it from you."
"Go on," she whispered again.
"And I'm sorry I accused you of hating me. I know that's not true."
She closed her eyes for a moment. Hating him never entered her heart even when he was a bad person. "Clark, the clone said some things."
He frowned. "What things?"
"He said that you wanted me even before I married Oliver. Is that true?"
"Yes, it's true. You must have had some idea."
"No, I didn't know."
"Well, I never gave any of you a chance to get to know me. Once the red-k had taken over my life, there really was no looking back." He paused as he stroked her arm. "All the years I spent watching you and wanting you, I felt I wasn't worthy of you. Everyone hated my family and … I hated what I had become."
She frowned. "You use that word a lot … hate."
"I guess I do."
"Well, you should stop using it … and use other words instead."
"Oh, and what words are those?"
Her eyes shifted away from him. "Words like … love, devotion, trust, honesty, and faith. Should I go on?"
"You're right, I know I've been someone you couldn't stand to be around when we were younger, and I understand now why you married Oliver."
"Clark, I have to tell you. Back then, I thought maybe … if things were different. You and I …?"
His eyes lit up like the sun. "You and me?"
"Yeah, you and me … crazy huh?"
"Not crazy at all. I just wish …" He couldn't finish because he couldn't change the past, but learn from it and move on.
She raised his chin, leaned in and kissed him sweetly. "No more wishes Ok, this is real Clark, you and me right now. No more looking back at the past, no more feeling insecure about our feelings because I trust you. Do you trust me?"
"Yes, I trust you."
"Good now, let's get some sleep. We still need to head over to the mine first thing."
"You're not going." Clark was firm in this.
"Of course, I am, it's Oliver's land and it's a part of his estate. I have every right to be there."
Clark groaned to himself. She had a point. "Alright, but you have to listen to me and everyone on the team. They want to protect you and so do I."
"Haven't you learned by now that I don't need protection, I can take care of myself."
"Ok, you won't get any argument from me."
"Good, now, I'm exhausted. Come here." She pulled him close and snuggled close to him.
"Lois, ummm, I thought we could you know, get closer." He smoothed her hair and pulled her close. She was so soft and warm. He was getting excited.
"Oh, you mean sex?" She grinned and pulled him closer, which was driving him crazy.
"Well, ummm …." His heart was pounding so hard.
Lois leaned back and smiled. "Clark, can't you tell when I'm teasing?"
"I'm not sure I like your teasing," he said and then he kissed her. She kissed him back. Lois wasn't exhausted, not anymore.
He slowly lowered his mouth to hers once again, this time kissing her with an intensity that he'd withheld up until this moment. Lois felt desire course through her veins and marveled at the effect his kisses had on her. There's no doubt in her mind that Clark is the best kisser in the world, but then they were both breathless. Clark's kisses became even more intense and he wandered down her throat to her breasts and took a nipple into his mouth swirling his tongue around and around pulling and sucking to his heart's content.
Lois arched her back feeling each pull of his lips clear to her center. "Oh Clark, that feels so good, don't stop," she begged.
"I have no intention of stopping," he said between kisses. Clark was thrilled with her response. He lifted his head to admire the picture she made. Her breasts were flushed and wet from his ministrations, her beautiful head was thrown back on the pillow, and her eyes were shut in anticipation of his next move. "God, you're beautiful," he whispered, as his warm mouth continued down her body. She parted her thighs in invitation to him. Lois gasped when he touched her. Clark inhaled her scent, feeling his cock twitch in response.
Lois was going to scream if he didn't give it to her. "Clark, please," she panted. She felt him settle between her legs. She grabbed his head between her palms and kissed him fisting her hands in his hair clutching him closer. She lifted her arms and legs around him pulling him closer.
Clark couldn't wait any longer. He could hardly hear over the blood pounding in his ears. His hand smoothly stroked down her flat belly feeling the heat and moisture on his fingers. Lois whimpered again. She was slick and ready for him. Clark slowly entered her warm sheath holding still for a moment as her heat closed around his cock. She picked up his rhythm quickly and began to move. Soon they were riding that crest to the stars. He pushed harder and faster and then he could feel her muscles tense as she cried out her climax pulsing through her. He pulled her tighter against him and his climax crashed over him, as they both sighed with bliss. As he began to slowly leave her body, Lois stopped him.
"Don't move … don't let go," she whispered pulling him closer. Lois was still worried about what they would find at the mine.
"Lois, I'm too heavy for you, just …" Clark said but he liked it.
Lois stopped him with a kiss. Clark kissed her back. He found himself hardening again.
"Oh, yes," Lois said feeling him coming to life again.
"You asked for it," Clark smiled and kissed her sweet mouth and the next thing he knew it was morning and Lois was asleep curled up next to him exhausted. He had hurt her enough, but he couldn't seem to stay away from her and apparently she felt the same way about him. He didn't dwell on their deepening feelings too long as Lois sighed against his chest and murmured his name.
Soon, they both fell asleep, but this time was different. Clark's nightmare did not return.
TBC!
~o~o~
Song Inspiration: Crazy for You, Adele.
A/N: Things are moving along pretty quickly now. I may have to split this story into two acts. I'll think on that and make a decision once I move into the next chapter. Stay tuned. Reviews are love. Thanks for reading, everyone.