Fic: Man of Steel: A Risk Worth Taking (15/?)
Title: Man of Steel: A Risk Worth Taking (15/?)
Author: Babette babettew54
Canon: Superman (MOS)
Pairings; Characters: Clark/Lois, Martha Kent, Sam Lane, Lucy Lane, Lex Luthor, Bruce Wayne
Rating: M
Word Count: 4,000
Summary: Lois couldn’t decide whether to ask him out or bombard him with questions hopefully to secure the ‘Story of the Century.’
Spoilers: None. It’s just speculation about hand touching in the trailer and what it could mean for Clois. The story continues with more speculation about Clois and the upcoming sequel.
Disclaimer: DC Comics/Warner Bros. Entertainment owns these characters. This is strictly for my own amusement.
Author's Notes: Before we head into the next chapter, I wanted to speak briefly about Lexica. I was upfront about everything changing, but folks may not have gotten where I was going with them (Lex/Erica). To put it plainly, Clark cannot save everyone, and Erica's feelings have changed toward the man who treated her so badly. We'll delve deeper into Lexica's relationship in this next chapter. Also, coming up are Bruce, Clark, and Sam hoping to find answers about the thefts, now that Sam knows the truth about Clark, he has a few questions for him, and later, Lois is faced with the toughest decision of her career. Also, this chapter will end the first Act. Yep, I have Acts now. I hope you enjoy it! :D
X-posted: (FFN); (A03)
Previously:
ACT I: The Only Thing That Matters
( Chapter 1)( Chapter 2)( Chapter 3)( Chapter 4)( Chapter 5)
( Chapter 6)( Chapter 7)( Chapter 8)( Chapter 9)( Chapter 10)
( Chapter 11)( Chapter 12)( Chapter 13)( Chapter 14)
Chapter 15: All I See is You and Me
Minutes later, at the military base:
Clark stood back and watched as Bruce landed his flight ship. The military were stunned and didn't know what to do. Clark walked over to the front gate and reassured the guards that the gentleman was a friend and not to be afraid. "Put away your weapons!" They cautiously did as he said.
Once Bruce had landed, he jumped out of his flight ship in full costume. Even more stares and raised weapons appeared. Clark sighed and walked over to him. "Don't make any sudden moves."
Bruce frowned under his costume. "Oh, I get it." Shaking his head, he followed Clark.
A private scurried over to them. "Sir, wait, we have to announce you to General Lane."
"He knows I'm coming," Clark said. "Don't worry, everything is fine."
The private was reluctant then he stepped aside, and he couldn't help thinking. What is with these guys with capes anyway?
Once they were on their way, Bruce turned and watched the crowd that formed behind them. "I see they're still a bit shaky around you."
Clark sighed, thinking about the rumors. "That appears to be true. I just hope this Zod business isn't spread around too much."
"I wouldn't count on it. Rumors like that can spread like wildfire."
"True enough," Clark agreed. "Let's just find his body and the ship, and we can put this behind us."
General Lane heard the commotion. "I should have known," he murmured as he watched them approach.
"General, this is Batman, a friend. Batman, this is General Sam Lane. Batman is here to help us Sir. He's here in an official capacity," Clark introduced them.
Sam didn't know exactly how to greet him. He held out his hand. Bruce shook it then they headed inside. Once they were inside his office, he couldn't help but stare at Superman with new eyes. He's sleeping with my daughter. Shaking his head to remove any further thoughts along those lines, he walked over to them. "An official capacity, exactly what does that mean?"
"Sir, I explained everything over the phone. Batman is known for his investigative skills. In fact, he suspects that the thefts were an inside job."
Sam's back went up. "That's impossible," he declared upset by that notion.
"There's no other explanation," Batman said.
Just then, General Swanwick walked in with Captain Farris. "Superman, it's good to see again."
"Thank you, Sir," Superman said. "This is Batman, a friend."
Sam tried to explain. "John, this Batman here has this ridiculous idea that it was an inside job."
He frowned, and then he considered it. "Sam, we can't rule out anything at this point. Actually, I was thinking the same thing myself." Sam stiffened at those words. "Wait, now, let me finish."
"Go on," Sam said.
"Please, everyone take a seat." Everyone sat down. "As I was saying and you know this, Sam, I was responsible for that bunker. I want to know the truth, the same as you. If anyone on my team were responsible, he would be prosecuted to the full extent of military law."
Bruce was intrigued. "From what you're saying, you have some idea who was responsible."
"Yes, I do," General Swanwick replied.
Sam was furious at that implication. "Who is it?"
"There's only one person. You put him in charge, Sam." General Swanwick was sympathetic.
"You don't mean …. Lieutenant Peter Jones, do you?"
"I'm afraid so," General Swanwick sadly replied.
Sam stood up and began to pace. "I can't believe this and after all these years." He'd known Peter Jones since he was recruited, through years of training, including surviving two tours in Afghanistan.
Bruce spoke up. "We need to interrogate everyone who was stationed at the bunker last night."
"Of course, I'll bring them over to the main interrogation building. I believe you know where it is," General Swanwick spoke to Superman.
"Yes, I know where it is. Thank you, Sir," Clark said.
"I'll see you all in a few minutes," General Swanwick let them alone, then he spoke briefly to Captain Farris asking her to contact all the men who were stationed at the bunker last night and to bring them in.
"Yes, Sir, I'll get right on it," Captain Farris said and pulled out her cell.
Bruce and Clark glanced at each other. "Are you alright, Sir?" Clark asked the General. He was so quiet, he was worried.
"This can't be happening. I trusted him, when no one else would."
Bruce picked on that comment. "Has he been in trouble before?"
Sam shook his head. "No, not in trouble exactly, but he came to me several weeks ago telling me that his family was in serious trouble with finances and a lot of debt. I never for a minute thought that he would do something like this. The Army has ways of helping soldiers with financial troubles."
Suddenly, Captain Farris appeared in his office. "We're ready for you, Sir."
Sam pulled himself together. "Batman, would you please go with her? I wish to speak with Superman for a moment."
Bruce gave Clark a look. "Of course," he said and followed Captain Farris.
Sam walked over to the door and closed it. He looked Clark up and down. "So, it's true? Clark Kent … the reporter for the Daily Planet is … Superman." Clark nodded but didn't say anything.
"Nothing to say?" Sam frowned, not liking his lack of response.
"What do you want me to say Sir?"
"You really had me fooled." Sam shook his head as he walked over to him. Clark felt cornered by his stares.
Clark looked him in the eye. "Sir, I ... I love your daughter. That wasn't a lie." That was all he could think so say.
"And she loves you, an alien from another world?" Sam was incredulous.
"Yes, she does, but of course, you knew that, Sir."
He turned from him and walked over his desk. "Oh, I do know that. She's made that extremely clear on numerous occasions."
Clark walked over to him. "Lois and I, well, ever since we met, it's been wonderful, Sir. I don't know any other way to describe it. She makes me feel normal, like everyone else. Ever since I found out the truth about myself, I've never felt that way, not until I met your daughter." He paused for a moment. "She saved my life in more ways than one."
"Oh, do you mean the green-K?"
Clark frowned thinking the worst. "She told you about the green-K and what it can do to me?" He was a bit shocked she would tell him that.
"Don't be upset. She only told me because she wanted me to get rid of it … all of it, and I did."
Clark was relieved. "Thank you, Sir, but that wasn't the only way she saved me." He turned from him and walked over to the window. Taking a deep breath and with hands behind his back, he told him the truth. "Her love, it strengthens me Sir. It gives me hope for the future. I never had that before. She makes me feel like anything is possible … anything, and nothing is more valuable to me than your daughter." He paused to gather his composure then he turned to face him. "I meant what I said when I came to see you the other day. There's nothing I wouldn't do for her." He paused as his voice softened. "I love her."
Sam couldn't help but think of his wife, his dear Ella. Love like that doesn't come around every day. "I believe you."
Relieved, Clark actually smiled. "Thank you, Sir."
"Ok, now, we have a lot to do. I truly hope it's not true about Peter, but we have no choice but to find out the truth and to find Zod and the missing ship as soon as possible."
"I know that Sir, and if anyone can find out the truth, it's Batman."
~o~o~
Meanwhile, in the interrogation room:
General Swanwick stood beside Batman thinking about how to approach the Lieutenant. "He's the last one. Everyone else had the same story. They were all ambushed with sleeping darts. The thieves were also heavily armed and were covered entirely in black with no identifying markings of any kind. No one saw Jones get hit with any darts."
Bruce was thoughtful. "That doesn't mean that he wasn't drugged. Was he tested?"
"No, but he will be," General Swanwick replied.
"Alright, here goes," Batman said and headed for the interrogation room, but he had one more question for the General. "Have you checked his bank accounts? Also, a search of his private office and his home wouldn't hurt either."
"I'll take care of it."
Inside the interrogation room, Lieutenant Jones was beginning to sweat. As long as he kept his story straight without any slips, he would get away with it. They wouldn't find the money. He had it stashed in a safe place.
Then Bruce walked in, and Peter's eyes bugged out of his head. He was terrified. He knew whom he was. Two cities this close together knew everything there was to know. Batman. His name was Batman.
By his look, Bruce spoke up. "I see no introductions are necessary?"
Peter swallowed. "No, Sir," he sputtered still terrified.
"Good, then," he began then sat down opposite him. "Why'd you do it? And please don't insult me by lying. I will get at the truth."
He swallowed. "I don't know what you're talking about," Peter replied, but his voice was a bit shaky.
"I think you do. How much did he pay you? Believe me I know what it feels like to be without money, to pay the rent, that car note, credit cards, and food for my family. Believe me, I do."
Peter wavered a bit. "You do?"
"Yeah, I do." Bruce leaned in so they could speak privately. "This suit hides my face, but it can't hide my shame at some of the things I've done."
"But … but you got past it, didn't you? I mean, it didn't … it didn't kill you inside and make you want to die and not be able to look at your family and feel this … this crushing regret?" Peter's eyes watered.
"No, Peter, I didn't. It's been years now, and even though I was able to help my family with the money, I lost them, they left me, and so here I am trying to do some kindness because it's all I have now." He paused. "You can do that, Peter. Just tell me what you did and it can help you. The pain won't be so severe, but you have to tell me."
"I want to tell you, but the money, they need the money," Peter said not realizing he had just confessed.
"I know, but they need you more. You are what's necessary, Peter, not the money. Deep inside, you know that to be true."
Peter's shoulders began to shake then he covered his eyes and burst into tears. After a few minutes, he whispered to him, "Alright, I'll tell you."
~o~o~
Early morning, in Lex Luthor's penthouse suite:
Lex Luthor was awakened by a beeping of his cellphone. It was one of his contacts. The body and the ship would have to be moved. Superman, as well as the Caped Crusader, were at that moment snooping around the military base. It could mean only one thing. It was only a matter of time before they found out whom their informant was and that he may start talking.
Silently cursing a blue streak, he sent a text, then he silenced the phone and was about to get out of bed when a warm arm reached out and pulled him close. He wanted to resist the temptation, but he just couldn't do it.
She purred again, a sound he liked, then she spoke to him, and it was something he hadn't heard in years. "Good morning."
He felt like love-struck idiot. He pulled her warm body close to him and then he kissed her. She kissed him back.
"Ummm, this is nice," she whispered as she kissed his ear and his throat. "Can we stay in bed all day? I'd like that."
"No, we can't do that, although … one day soon?" Lex whispered shocking himself.
"Ummm, it's a date." Erica was in heaven, a heaven she had dreamt about even in her drug-induced coma.
He gave her a quick kiss, then he got out of bed, slipped on a robe and grabbed his cellphone.
Erica sighed and pulled the covers up her chest and watched him do his thing. "Duty calls, I suppose." Then Erica got out of bed. "Oh, dear!" She wrapped a sheet around her body.
Lex turned to her. "What is it?"
"I don't have any clothes to wear." She did have her cellphone. "I'll call my Father and he'll bring me some clothes." She put down her phone for a minute and then she had a thought. "I know you want to meet her. My Father can bring her over if you have time that is."
Lex stared at his phone and then back at Erica. He then made a decision, and at that moment there was something more valuable, more serious than destroying Superman. "Call him."
She smiled, dialed the number and after a few stern words to her Father, he agreed to bring Lena over. They would be there within an hour.
Lex's heart began to pound. Lena was coming to see him. He suddenly looked down at himself. "I should change."
Erica pouted prettily. "What about me?"
"Well, I have a sweat shirt and pants you can wear." He grinned at her. "Join me in the shower?" He held out his hand.
Instead of answering him, she slowly dropped the sheet and walked over to him and took his hand. A half hour later, they barely had time to dry off and change before the doorbell rang.
Lex steeled himself, he walked over to the door and opened it and there she was. She looked so pretty. She was wearing a flowery dress, her hair was down around her shoulders, but her eyes they were storm clouds. And Erica's Father's expression wasn't much better. Lex felt deflated as if the air had left his lungs. He couldn't breathe. After a moment, Henri spoke. "Can we come in?"
"Of course, please come in," Lex said finally finding his voice. After they walked in, he ignored Henri, then spoke to his daughter for the first time. "Hello, Lena."
She purposefully ignored him. "Mommy!" She hollered and ran to her Mother. Erica held her close for a moment. She stroked and smoothed her hair. "Hi, honey, everything is Ok."
Her Father walked over to Erica and handed her a small piece of luggage. "Thank you, Father." Suddenly tongue-tied, she whispered. "Sweetie, Mommy has to change, and Lex, he's …." She hesitated then she leaned down and told her the truth. She took her small hands in hers. "He's your Father, honey, and he wants to get to know you. Will you try to be polite to him for me?"
Lena was silent for a minute then she turned to the tall bald gentleman. "You're bald."
Lex grinned. "That I am. It's been this way for a long time." He instinctively wiped his hand over his shiny bald head.
Lena was intrigued. "How long?"
Erica and her Father glanced at each other. Feeling a bit relieved, she turned and went to get changed.
"Well, I was not too much older than you," Lex replied which got narrowed eyes from his daughter.
"Really?" She was doubtful about his answer.
Lex came closer, and Lena watched him for a minute. Suddenly, she was afraid of him, then she backed up and bumped into her Grandpapa, and she wasn't sure why she did it. Lex stopped moving.
"Mommy?" Lena asked and turned looking for her Mother.
"She'll be right back, sweetie." Henri took her hand, and they walked over to the sofa and sat down and waited for Erica.
Lex was frozen in place. My daughter is afraid of me. Of course, she is. What did you expect, that she would hug and kiss you and welcome you with open arms? She will in time. Lex was hopeful for some reason. He turned to them. "Would you like something to drink? Are you hungry?" He spoke to Lena.
Lena glanced at her Grandpapa.
"Well, we kind of rushed over here, and maybe some cereal, juice and some toast would be ok," Henri replied.
"Of course, I'll be right back," Lex said and went into the kitchen.
Lena suddenly felt regretful about the way she had acted. She stood up and came over to the kitchen then she climbed up on the bar stool and watched him for a minute. Lena had a question for him. "Why did you do it?"
Lex stiffened at her question. He knew what she meant. He couldn't look at her as he put the bread in the toaster. "Do what?"
"Hurt my Mother … and me?"
Erica had returned just at that moment and heard Lena's question. Henri stood up and looked between Erica and Lex.
Lex stared at Erica, and she returned his stare. The air in the room stilled.
~o~o~
Meanwhile, another hidden bunker on the outskirts of town:
Clark inwardly cursed a blue streak. "He was lying. There's nothing here."
Bruce checked out the tracks on the floor. "Something or someone was here recently. See, there are tracks."
"Now what?"
"We follow the tracks."
And so they did.
It was now dark, and soon enough, a few miles down the road, they came to another building. Clark checked it out with his x-ray vision.
"Well, anything in there?" Bruce asked and watched him do his thing.
"Well, we got lucky. The ship is there, but I don't see Zod's body."
"That can't be good. This means that Lex is on to us, and he could speed up his plans, whatever those are."
Clark was fuming inside, but there was nothing they could do but sit back and wait for Lex to make his next move.
~o~o~
Later that night, at Lois's apartment:
Lois had just tearfully finished her article. She wiped at her eyes and blew her nose, and then she thought back to her conversation with Perry earlier in the day.
"Look Lois, how many times do I have say this? The public needs to know what happened to Zod, that Superman killed him and that his body is missing."
Lois was very upset. "We can't print that. The public will turn their backs on him. They won't be able to trust him and …" She was getting even more upset.
"I'm sorry, Lois, our hands are tied." He could see she was upset. "He'll be alright. All of this will die down in a little while."
"I don't think it will, Perry. It's been hard for him, gaining everyone's trust that he wouldn't hurt them, and now this. It changes everything." Lois as getting even more upset.
Perry was determined. "Either we print it or someone else will. These rumors can't be held down, and you know it." He paused. "You have two hours." Perry turned away from her sad eyes and went back into his office.
Back in her apartment, she read the article again and again. She painted General Zod as a crazed monster intent on destroying the planet, of killing every living thing on Earth and that Superman had no other choice but to destroy him. Sending him into the phantom zone was not the answer. He could return, and that was not an option that Superman wanted to face. He did it to protect everyone. It was the truth. She believed that wholeheartedly. An hour later, she sent the article to Perry.
Lying in bed, she waited for Clark to come home so she could explain everything. She prayed he would understand and forgive her.
She waited and waited for him, and it was nearly midnight. Soon, her eyes drifted shut but then she felt a warm breath at her ear. His kisses were so welcome that she sighed and welcomed him home with kisses and tight hugs.
"God I needed this so badly," Clark murmured holding her close.
She pulled away. "What happened?"
"We found the ship, but Zod's body is still missing," he sadly replied. He laid his head on her chest needing her so much.
"You'll find it. You can't give up," she whispered to him stroking his hair.
"I won't give up."
"Good." She paused. "I have news." She reached for her IPad and showed him the article.
He sat up in bed and after finishing it, his eyes were stunned and upset. "You wrote this?"
"I'm sorry, but … I had no choice. Perry insisted. Everything will be alright in time. Please try and understand why I had to do it." She touched his arm.
He turned from her apologetic expression, abruptly got out of bed and stood there in his boxers, not knowing what to say to her.
"Clark, I'm sorry," she said it again.
"I'm sorry too." He turned back to her. "I have no choice either. I don't blame you, Lois, I don't, but I have to leave for a while."
Her heart nearly stopped at those words. She got out of bed and slipped on her robe. "No, no, you can't leave now. We need you. Luthor … he …"
"I just need to think about some things." He couldn't look at her.
Her heart constricted with the pain of her next words. "Do you mean us?" Her eyes watered.
He suddenly twirled into his suit and turned to her. "Goodbye, Lois."
And then he was gone. Lois was so stunned that she couldn't form the words in her mind let alone, her heart. After hearing the sonic boom, she slowly walked over to the window, closed her eyes and when she opened them, she realized that he would come back to her. Clark's hopeful words suddenly flowed inside her mind:
No matter where I go, no matter what happens, I will always be with you and I will come back to you, Lois, don't ever doubt it.
End of ACT I: The Only Thing That Matters
TBC!
~o~o~
Song Inspiration: Stay with Me, Danity Kane.
A/N: Well, there he goes, running off again. BDA! You know the man is famous for it! I'm truly sorry to end it there, but Lois and Clark have a hard road ahead of them. Clark isn't thinking clearly at the moment. Things could not have gotten any worse, or could they. Ms. Laney, my Muse, is in a strange mood it seems. And Lexica, it appears the moment of truth has arrived. Well, stay tuned for more. Reviews/kudos would be so awesome. Look for ACT II to begin in two weeks, during the holiday weekend. Thanks for reading everyone.
Author: Babette babettew54
Canon: Superman (MOS)
Pairings; Characters: Clark/Lois, Martha Kent, Sam Lane, Lucy Lane, Lex Luthor, Bruce Wayne
Rating: M
Word Count: 4,000
Summary: Lois couldn’t decide whether to ask him out or bombard him with questions hopefully to secure the ‘Story of the Century.’
Spoilers: None. It’s just speculation about hand touching in the trailer and what it could mean for Clois. The story continues with more speculation about Clois and the upcoming sequel.
Disclaimer: DC Comics/Warner Bros. Entertainment owns these characters. This is strictly for my own amusement.
Author's Notes: Before we head into the next chapter, I wanted to speak briefly about Lexica. I was upfront about everything changing, but folks may not have gotten where I was going with them (Lex/Erica). To put it plainly, Clark cannot save everyone, and Erica's feelings have changed toward the man who treated her so badly. We'll delve deeper into Lexica's relationship in this next chapter. Also, coming up are Bruce, Clark, and Sam hoping to find answers about the thefts, now that Sam knows the truth about Clark, he has a few questions for him, and later, Lois is faced with the toughest decision of her career. Also, this chapter will end the first Act. Yep, I have Acts now. I hope you enjoy it! :D
X-posted: (FFN); (A03)
Previously:
ACT I: The Only Thing That Matters
( Chapter 1)( Chapter 2)( Chapter 3)( Chapter 4)( Chapter 5)
( Chapter 6)( Chapter 7)( Chapter 8)( Chapter 9)( Chapter 10)
( Chapter 11)( Chapter 12)( Chapter 13)( Chapter 14)
Chapter 15: All I See is You and Me
Minutes later, at the military base:
Clark stood back and watched as Bruce landed his flight ship. The military were stunned and didn't know what to do. Clark walked over to the front gate and reassured the guards that the gentleman was a friend and not to be afraid. "Put away your weapons!" They cautiously did as he said.
Once Bruce had landed, he jumped out of his flight ship in full costume. Even more stares and raised weapons appeared. Clark sighed and walked over to him. "Don't make any sudden moves."
Bruce frowned under his costume. "Oh, I get it." Shaking his head, he followed Clark.
A private scurried over to them. "Sir, wait, we have to announce you to General Lane."
"He knows I'm coming," Clark said. "Don't worry, everything is fine."
The private was reluctant then he stepped aside, and he couldn't help thinking. What is with these guys with capes anyway?
Once they were on their way, Bruce turned and watched the crowd that formed behind them. "I see they're still a bit shaky around you."
Clark sighed, thinking about the rumors. "That appears to be true. I just hope this Zod business isn't spread around too much."
"I wouldn't count on it. Rumors like that can spread like wildfire."
"True enough," Clark agreed. "Let's just find his body and the ship, and we can put this behind us."
General Lane heard the commotion. "I should have known," he murmured as he watched them approach.
"General, this is Batman, a friend. Batman, this is General Sam Lane. Batman is here to help us Sir. He's here in an official capacity," Clark introduced them.
Sam didn't know exactly how to greet him. He held out his hand. Bruce shook it then they headed inside. Once they were inside his office, he couldn't help but stare at Superman with new eyes. He's sleeping with my daughter. Shaking his head to remove any further thoughts along those lines, he walked over to them. "An official capacity, exactly what does that mean?"
"Sir, I explained everything over the phone. Batman is known for his investigative skills. In fact, he suspects that the thefts were an inside job."
Sam's back went up. "That's impossible," he declared upset by that notion.
"There's no other explanation," Batman said.
Just then, General Swanwick walked in with Captain Farris. "Superman, it's good to see again."
"Thank you, Sir," Superman said. "This is Batman, a friend."
Sam tried to explain. "John, this Batman here has this ridiculous idea that it was an inside job."
He frowned, and then he considered it. "Sam, we can't rule out anything at this point. Actually, I was thinking the same thing myself." Sam stiffened at those words. "Wait, now, let me finish."
"Go on," Sam said.
"Please, everyone take a seat." Everyone sat down. "As I was saying and you know this, Sam, I was responsible for that bunker. I want to know the truth, the same as you. If anyone on my team were responsible, he would be prosecuted to the full extent of military law."
Bruce was intrigued. "From what you're saying, you have some idea who was responsible."
"Yes, I do," General Swanwick replied.
Sam was furious at that implication. "Who is it?"
"There's only one person. You put him in charge, Sam." General Swanwick was sympathetic.
"You don't mean …. Lieutenant Peter Jones, do you?"
"I'm afraid so," General Swanwick sadly replied.
Sam stood up and began to pace. "I can't believe this and after all these years." He'd known Peter Jones since he was recruited, through years of training, including surviving two tours in Afghanistan.
Bruce spoke up. "We need to interrogate everyone who was stationed at the bunker last night."
"Of course, I'll bring them over to the main interrogation building. I believe you know where it is," General Swanwick spoke to Superman.
"Yes, I know where it is. Thank you, Sir," Clark said.
"I'll see you all in a few minutes," General Swanwick let them alone, then he spoke briefly to Captain Farris asking her to contact all the men who were stationed at the bunker last night and to bring them in.
"Yes, Sir, I'll get right on it," Captain Farris said and pulled out her cell.
Bruce and Clark glanced at each other. "Are you alright, Sir?" Clark asked the General. He was so quiet, he was worried.
"This can't be happening. I trusted him, when no one else would."
Bruce picked on that comment. "Has he been in trouble before?"
Sam shook his head. "No, not in trouble exactly, but he came to me several weeks ago telling me that his family was in serious trouble with finances and a lot of debt. I never for a minute thought that he would do something like this. The Army has ways of helping soldiers with financial troubles."
Suddenly, Captain Farris appeared in his office. "We're ready for you, Sir."
Sam pulled himself together. "Batman, would you please go with her? I wish to speak with Superman for a moment."
Bruce gave Clark a look. "Of course," he said and followed Captain Farris.
Sam walked over to the door and closed it. He looked Clark up and down. "So, it's true? Clark Kent … the reporter for the Daily Planet is … Superman." Clark nodded but didn't say anything.
"Nothing to say?" Sam frowned, not liking his lack of response.
"What do you want me to say Sir?"
"You really had me fooled." Sam shook his head as he walked over to him. Clark felt cornered by his stares.
Clark looked him in the eye. "Sir, I ... I love your daughter. That wasn't a lie." That was all he could think so say.
"And she loves you, an alien from another world?" Sam was incredulous.
"Yes, she does, but of course, you knew that, Sir."
He turned from him and walked over his desk. "Oh, I do know that. She's made that extremely clear on numerous occasions."
Clark walked over to him. "Lois and I, well, ever since we met, it's been wonderful, Sir. I don't know any other way to describe it. She makes me feel normal, like everyone else. Ever since I found out the truth about myself, I've never felt that way, not until I met your daughter." He paused for a moment. "She saved my life in more ways than one."
"Oh, do you mean the green-K?"
Clark frowned thinking the worst. "She told you about the green-K and what it can do to me?" He was a bit shocked she would tell him that.
"Don't be upset. She only told me because she wanted me to get rid of it … all of it, and I did."
Clark was relieved. "Thank you, Sir, but that wasn't the only way she saved me." He turned from him and walked over to the window. Taking a deep breath and with hands behind his back, he told him the truth. "Her love, it strengthens me Sir. It gives me hope for the future. I never had that before. She makes me feel like anything is possible … anything, and nothing is more valuable to me than your daughter." He paused to gather his composure then he turned to face him. "I meant what I said when I came to see you the other day. There's nothing I wouldn't do for her." He paused as his voice softened. "I love her."
Sam couldn't help but think of his wife, his dear Ella. Love like that doesn't come around every day. "I believe you."
Relieved, Clark actually smiled. "Thank you, Sir."
"Ok, now, we have a lot to do. I truly hope it's not true about Peter, but we have no choice but to find out the truth and to find Zod and the missing ship as soon as possible."
"I know that Sir, and if anyone can find out the truth, it's Batman."
~o~o~
Meanwhile, in the interrogation room:
General Swanwick stood beside Batman thinking about how to approach the Lieutenant. "He's the last one. Everyone else had the same story. They were all ambushed with sleeping darts. The thieves were also heavily armed and were covered entirely in black with no identifying markings of any kind. No one saw Jones get hit with any darts."
Bruce was thoughtful. "That doesn't mean that he wasn't drugged. Was he tested?"
"No, but he will be," General Swanwick replied.
"Alright, here goes," Batman said and headed for the interrogation room, but he had one more question for the General. "Have you checked his bank accounts? Also, a search of his private office and his home wouldn't hurt either."
"I'll take care of it."
Inside the interrogation room, Lieutenant Jones was beginning to sweat. As long as he kept his story straight without any slips, he would get away with it. They wouldn't find the money. He had it stashed in a safe place.
Then Bruce walked in, and Peter's eyes bugged out of his head. He was terrified. He knew whom he was. Two cities this close together knew everything there was to know. Batman. His name was Batman.
By his look, Bruce spoke up. "I see no introductions are necessary?"
Peter swallowed. "No, Sir," he sputtered still terrified.
"Good, then," he began then sat down opposite him. "Why'd you do it? And please don't insult me by lying. I will get at the truth."
He swallowed. "I don't know what you're talking about," Peter replied, but his voice was a bit shaky.
"I think you do. How much did he pay you? Believe me I know what it feels like to be without money, to pay the rent, that car note, credit cards, and food for my family. Believe me, I do."
Peter wavered a bit. "You do?"
"Yeah, I do." Bruce leaned in so they could speak privately. "This suit hides my face, but it can't hide my shame at some of the things I've done."
"But … but you got past it, didn't you? I mean, it didn't … it didn't kill you inside and make you want to die and not be able to look at your family and feel this … this crushing regret?" Peter's eyes watered.
"No, Peter, I didn't. It's been years now, and even though I was able to help my family with the money, I lost them, they left me, and so here I am trying to do some kindness because it's all I have now." He paused. "You can do that, Peter. Just tell me what you did and it can help you. The pain won't be so severe, but you have to tell me."
"I want to tell you, but the money, they need the money," Peter said not realizing he had just confessed.
"I know, but they need you more. You are what's necessary, Peter, not the money. Deep inside, you know that to be true."
Peter's shoulders began to shake then he covered his eyes and burst into tears. After a few minutes, he whispered to him, "Alright, I'll tell you."
~o~o~
Early morning, in Lex Luthor's penthouse suite:
Lex Luthor was awakened by a beeping of his cellphone. It was one of his contacts. The body and the ship would have to be moved. Superman, as well as the Caped Crusader, were at that moment snooping around the military base. It could mean only one thing. It was only a matter of time before they found out whom their informant was and that he may start talking.
Silently cursing a blue streak, he sent a text, then he silenced the phone and was about to get out of bed when a warm arm reached out and pulled him close. He wanted to resist the temptation, but he just couldn't do it.
She purred again, a sound he liked, then she spoke to him, and it was something he hadn't heard in years. "Good morning."
He felt like love-struck idiot. He pulled her warm body close to him and then he kissed her. She kissed him back.
"Ummm, this is nice," she whispered as she kissed his ear and his throat. "Can we stay in bed all day? I'd like that."
"No, we can't do that, although … one day soon?" Lex whispered shocking himself.
"Ummm, it's a date." Erica was in heaven, a heaven she had dreamt about even in her drug-induced coma.
He gave her a quick kiss, then he got out of bed, slipped on a robe and grabbed his cellphone.
Erica sighed and pulled the covers up her chest and watched him do his thing. "Duty calls, I suppose." Then Erica got out of bed. "Oh, dear!" She wrapped a sheet around her body.
Lex turned to her. "What is it?"
"I don't have any clothes to wear." She did have her cellphone. "I'll call my Father and he'll bring me some clothes." She put down her phone for a minute and then she had a thought. "I know you want to meet her. My Father can bring her over if you have time that is."
Lex stared at his phone and then back at Erica. He then made a decision, and at that moment there was something more valuable, more serious than destroying Superman. "Call him."
She smiled, dialed the number and after a few stern words to her Father, he agreed to bring Lena over. They would be there within an hour.
Lex's heart began to pound. Lena was coming to see him. He suddenly looked down at himself. "I should change."
Erica pouted prettily. "What about me?"
"Well, I have a sweat shirt and pants you can wear." He grinned at her. "Join me in the shower?" He held out his hand.
Instead of answering him, she slowly dropped the sheet and walked over to him and took his hand. A half hour later, they barely had time to dry off and change before the doorbell rang.
Lex steeled himself, he walked over to the door and opened it and there she was. She looked so pretty. She was wearing a flowery dress, her hair was down around her shoulders, but her eyes they were storm clouds. And Erica's Father's expression wasn't much better. Lex felt deflated as if the air had left his lungs. He couldn't breathe. After a moment, Henri spoke. "Can we come in?"
"Of course, please come in," Lex said finally finding his voice. After they walked in, he ignored Henri, then spoke to his daughter for the first time. "Hello, Lena."
She purposefully ignored him. "Mommy!" She hollered and ran to her Mother. Erica held her close for a moment. She stroked and smoothed her hair. "Hi, honey, everything is Ok."
Her Father walked over to Erica and handed her a small piece of luggage. "Thank you, Father." Suddenly tongue-tied, she whispered. "Sweetie, Mommy has to change, and Lex, he's …." She hesitated then she leaned down and told her the truth. She took her small hands in hers. "He's your Father, honey, and he wants to get to know you. Will you try to be polite to him for me?"
Lena was silent for a minute then she turned to the tall bald gentleman. "You're bald."
Lex grinned. "That I am. It's been this way for a long time." He instinctively wiped his hand over his shiny bald head.
Lena was intrigued. "How long?"
Erica and her Father glanced at each other. Feeling a bit relieved, she turned and went to get changed.
"Well, I was not too much older than you," Lex replied which got narrowed eyes from his daughter.
"Really?" She was doubtful about his answer.
Lex came closer, and Lena watched him for a minute. Suddenly, she was afraid of him, then she backed up and bumped into her Grandpapa, and she wasn't sure why she did it. Lex stopped moving.
"Mommy?" Lena asked and turned looking for her Mother.
"She'll be right back, sweetie." Henri took her hand, and they walked over to the sofa and sat down and waited for Erica.
Lex was frozen in place. My daughter is afraid of me. Of course, she is. What did you expect, that she would hug and kiss you and welcome you with open arms? She will in time. Lex was hopeful for some reason. He turned to them. "Would you like something to drink? Are you hungry?" He spoke to Lena.
Lena glanced at her Grandpapa.
"Well, we kind of rushed over here, and maybe some cereal, juice and some toast would be ok," Henri replied.
"Of course, I'll be right back," Lex said and went into the kitchen.
Lena suddenly felt regretful about the way she had acted. She stood up and came over to the kitchen then she climbed up on the bar stool and watched him for a minute. Lena had a question for him. "Why did you do it?"
Lex stiffened at her question. He knew what she meant. He couldn't look at her as he put the bread in the toaster. "Do what?"
"Hurt my Mother … and me?"
Erica had returned just at that moment and heard Lena's question. Henri stood up and looked between Erica and Lex.
Lex stared at Erica, and she returned his stare. The air in the room stilled.
~o~o~
Meanwhile, another hidden bunker on the outskirts of town:
Clark inwardly cursed a blue streak. "He was lying. There's nothing here."
Bruce checked out the tracks on the floor. "Something or someone was here recently. See, there are tracks."
"Now what?"
"We follow the tracks."
And so they did.
It was now dark, and soon enough, a few miles down the road, they came to another building. Clark checked it out with his x-ray vision.
"Well, anything in there?" Bruce asked and watched him do his thing.
"Well, we got lucky. The ship is there, but I don't see Zod's body."
"That can't be good. This means that Lex is on to us, and he could speed up his plans, whatever those are."
Clark was fuming inside, but there was nothing they could do but sit back and wait for Lex to make his next move.
~o~o~
Later that night, at Lois's apartment:
Lois had just tearfully finished her article. She wiped at her eyes and blew her nose, and then she thought back to her conversation with Perry earlier in the day.
"Look Lois, how many times do I have say this? The public needs to know what happened to Zod, that Superman killed him and that his body is missing."
Lois was very upset. "We can't print that. The public will turn their backs on him. They won't be able to trust him and …" She was getting even more upset.
"I'm sorry, Lois, our hands are tied." He could see she was upset. "He'll be alright. All of this will die down in a little while."
"I don't think it will, Perry. It's been hard for him, gaining everyone's trust that he wouldn't hurt them, and now this. It changes everything." Lois as getting even more upset.
Perry was determined. "Either we print it or someone else will. These rumors can't be held down, and you know it." He paused. "You have two hours." Perry turned away from her sad eyes and went back into his office.
Back in her apartment, she read the article again and again. She painted General Zod as a crazed monster intent on destroying the planet, of killing every living thing on Earth and that Superman had no other choice but to destroy him. Sending him into the phantom zone was not the answer. He could return, and that was not an option that Superman wanted to face. He did it to protect everyone. It was the truth. She believed that wholeheartedly. An hour later, she sent the article to Perry.
Lying in bed, she waited for Clark to come home so she could explain everything. She prayed he would understand and forgive her.
She waited and waited for him, and it was nearly midnight. Soon, her eyes drifted shut but then she felt a warm breath at her ear. His kisses were so welcome that she sighed and welcomed him home with kisses and tight hugs.
"God I needed this so badly," Clark murmured holding her close.
She pulled away. "What happened?"
"We found the ship, but Zod's body is still missing," he sadly replied. He laid his head on her chest needing her so much.
"You'll find it. You can't give up," she whispered to him stroking his hair.
"I won't give up."
"Good." She paused. "I have news." She reached for her IPad and showed him the article.
He sat up in bed and after finishing it, his eyes were stunned and upset. "You wrote this?"
"I'm sorry, but … I had no choice. Perry insisted. Everything will be alright in time. Please try and understand why I had to do it." She touched his arm.
He turned from her apologetic expression, abruptly got out of bed and stood there in his boxers, not knowing what to say to her.
"Clark, I'm sorry," she said it again.
"I'm sorry too." He turned back to her. "I have no choice either. I don't blame you, Lois, I don't, but I have to leave for a while."
Her heart nearly stopped at those words. She got out of bed and slipped on her robe. "No, no, you can't leave now. We need you. Luthor … he …"
"I just need to think about some things." He couldn't look at her.
Her heart constricted with the pain of her next words. "Do you mean us?" Her eyes watered.
He suddenly twirled into his suit and turned to her. "Goodbye, Lois."
And then he was gone. Lois was so stunned that she couldn't form the words in her mind let alone, her heart. After hearing the sonic boom, she slowly walked over to the window, closed her eyes and when she opened them, she realized that he would come back to her. Clark's hopeful words suddenly flowed inside her mind:
No matter where I go, no matter what happens, I will always be with you and I will come back to you, Lois, don't ever doubt it.
End of ACT I: The Only Thing That Matters
TBC!
~o~o~
Song Inspiration: Stay with Me, Danity Kane.
A/N: Well, there he goes, running off again. BDA! You know the man is famous for it! I'm truly sorry to end it there, but Lois and Clark have a hard road ahead of them. Clark isn't thinking clearly at the moment. Things could not have gotten any worse, or could they. Ms. Laney, my Muse, is in a strange mood it seems. And Lexica, it appears the moment of truth has arrived. Well, stay tuned for more. Reviews/kudos would be so awesome. Look for ACT II to begin in two weeks, during the holiday weekend. Thanks for reading everyone.