Fic: Man of Steel: A Risk Worth Taking (16/?)
Title: Man of Steel: A Risk Worth Taking (16/?)
Author: Babette babettew54
Canon: Superman (MOS)
Pairings; Characters: Clark/Lois, Martha Kent, Sam Lane, Lucy Lane, Lex Luthor, Bruce Wayne
Rating: M
Word Count: 4,800
Summary: Lois couldn’t decide whether to ask him out or bombard him with questions hopefully to achieve the ‘Story of the Century.’
Spoilers: None. It is 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: I’m back with more of this story which has clearly taken on a life of its own. I knew when I started that I wanted it to be EPIC just as the movie was, but I never expected that my Muse would take me into a corner. Yep, I was stuck for days about how to continue, where to take the characters, explanations about why this happened and that happened, well, it drove me a bit bonkers. So taking a break was what my Muse needed so here we go. I hope you enjoy it. I had fun with it, especially the Clois scenes! Enjoy! :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)
ACT II: All I've Ever Wanted
Chapter 16: Secrets and Lies
Lex's penthouse suite, minutes later:
Lex froze for a moment, and after watching their eager faces, he decided to ignore his daughter's question. He picked up the milk from the counter and placed it back inside the fridge. He stood that way for a moment and thought about an answer to that question. Should I tell her the truth? There were two reasons I had sent her mother away. The first reason was because I actually did intentionally hurt my Father, and the second reason was because I did not need to be bled dry another ex-wife. Of course, he did not disclose any of those things. He turned back to her. "Lena …" He began, but Erica interrupted him.
"Sweetie I know you're hungry. The television is on in the den, and your favorite show is playing right now, and bring your food so you can eat."
"But Mommy …" Lena began.
"Come on, sweetie. Your Mother and Father need to talk," Henri said.
Lena was not a child. She knew exactly what was happening. Pouting, she hopped down from the bar stool then sent a glare in Lex's direction.
After they had left, Lex breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks, Erica."
She came closer and watched him for a moment. "I could see you sweat from across the room."
"I was not sweating," he declared and turned from her. He walked back into the living room. He picked up his cellphone.
He was distancing, and Erica could feel him leaving her. "Lex, tell me everything. I will not judge you."
"You say that now, but I've done things. I do regret hurting you, but I had no choice."
She frowned. "What do you mean you had no choice?"
"Your Father …" He began.
She interrupted him. "What has my Father to do with any of this?"
"Erica you should sit down."
Frowning, she sat down. "My Father loves me, and there's nothing you can say that would change that."
"Erica, your Father came to me years ago before we even met and asked me to give your brother a job."
"What are you talking about? My brother never worked for you. He was a scientist, and he worked for Wayne Enterprises."
"That's true; he did for a time, but then they fired him. Your Father convinced me to hire him."
Erica was confused and upset. "They never said a word."
"I'm sorry about that, but your brother fit right in with my work here." He paused for a moment. "Paul was brilliant, but he also loved money. He came up with ways to continue my work in astrophysics and then one day an experiment went awry, and your brother was injured."
"Oh, no, but my Father never told me about that. He has not mentioned Paul since I woke up, and so much has happened since then. I feel guilty, so where is he?"
"I'm sorry, Erica, but I hate to be the one to tell you this, but Paul never recovered from his injuries. He did not make it." He could see that she was extremely upset. He sat down next to her and pulled her close. "I'm so sorry."
"When was this, and why did he not tell me about it?"
"About six months ago," Lex replied. "I do not know why your father never mentioned it."
"Paul is gone; my little brother is dead. I cannot believe it."
Henri walked in and heard the end of their conversation. Lena was still in the den. "How dare you?" Henri was ready to strangle Lex. He walked over to him and pulled him up by his shirt. "You had no right to do that."
Lex smirked at him but did not say anything.
"Stop it Father." Erica stood up and pulled them apart. "It's not his fault. You should have told me about Paul."
"You should tell her all of it Henri." That was Lex.
Now it was Henri's turn to be frozen in place.
"What did he mean by that?" Erica asked. Henri was still. "Father, tell me everything now. I have a right to know. He was my brother."
He raised his sad eyes to her face. "And he was my son." Henri sighed. He felt defeated, and it was time to let the pieces fall where they may. He sat down, and Erica sat beside him.
"Just start at the beginning." Erica could see he was nervous and distressed.
"He was a brilliant scientist just like you. He admired you, and he wanted to be like you."
"I knew that. Go on," she prompted.
Henri took her hand. "When I went to Lex and asked him to give Paul a job, Lex agreed, but only if I would agree to your marriage. I knew there was no love between you, but I was desperate for money. We were bone dry, sweetie. We were going to lose our home."
Erica was not genuinely surprised to hear the facts about her marriage. She knew it had been arranged, but she did not know, however, that her family had been broke. "There's more, I can tell."
He squeezed her hand. "The night that Lex's father died, he called and told me that you were a witness and that you were going to tell everyone about the experiments, and the work Lex was doing. I knew how much we needed the money, so I agreed to let him send you off. He never told me where you were only that you were safe, and he convinced me that you and the child would be alright."
Erica was now frozen and so utterly shocked, she felt dizzy. Henri reached for her, but she jerked away from him. She stood up and glared at him. "So you chose money over me?" Tears blinded. "My future and my daughter's future did not matter to you. Money was all you saw." She looked him up and down. "I'm sickened by the sight of you. I cannot even think that you would do this to your own daughter."
Henri knew that what he had done would come out eventually but, not like this. "I'm so sorry."
"GET OUT, GET OUT OF MY SIGHT!" Erica was so angry, but that did not stop the tears that fell down her cheek.
"Mommy, why are you shouting? What's the matter?" Lena had never heard her Mother talk that way.
Erica wiped her tears away with the back of her hand then she went to her daughter, and held her close. "Your Grandfather has to leave."
"But why, what happened?" Lena was so scared. She watched as Henri walked over to the door. Lena sensed something was terribly wrong. She ran to him held him tightly around the waist. "Please don't go. Please?" Tears threatened.
Henri squatted down and pulled her into a tight hug. "I'll see you soon. Goodbye, Lena." He kissed her cheek.
"Goodbye, Grandpapa," Lena whispered, confused and sick at heart.
The door closed, and Lena touched it. "Is he coming back?"
"No, sweetie, he has things to do," Erica replied. Barely holding herself together, Lex went to her and tried to pull her close. Erica was still in shock and did not want to rely on him, but she needed him. He put his arm around her then he turned to Lena and held out his arm to her.
Lena hesitated but only for a moment. She ran to them and held them close, her arms around her Mother and her Father. Erica and Lena were crying, but Lex was smiling to himself. Holding them close within his arms, he hoped to appease them. "Everything is going be alright. Trust me."
I could not have planned this any better … I have my family back.
~o~o~
Lois' apartment, minutes after Clark had left:
Lois turned from the window, paced for a moment, hoping to come up with a way to help him. The story would not start until tomorrow morning. She picked her cellphone and called the late night desk at the website.
They followed her instructions to the letter. She convinced them that she would take full responsibility, but it was essential for the inquiries be posted on the site tonight. After hanging up, she knew she would not be able to sleep, so she headed into the office. It was one o'clock in the morning, but she was wide awake. No sooner had she arrived and logged onto her computer, there were already over twenty-five hits of people who had been saved by Superman since the invasion. One email that she had hoped to find popped up. Tears blinded, but they were happy tears.
~o~o~
The next morning in Smallville, Kansas:
Martha had just come back from picking up the paper, and it was as she expected. The headline was clear: Superman Suspected of Killing Zod. Sighing, she closed the paper and entered the house. Clark was sitting at the kitchen table sipping coffee.
"What time did you get in?" Martha asked her son.
He looked up and saw the paper. "It was almost dawn. Is that it?"
"Yes, it is." She handed it to him.
She squeezed his shoulder. "Are you hungry? I could whip up some pancakes and sausage, your favorites."
"I'm not hungry," Clark replied. He could not read the article again. Agitated, he stood up and went to stand by back door. It was a beautiful morning. "I don't know what to do."
"I know, but honey, it is not the end of the world. Lois understands what happened, and I'm sure once they see her story that everyone will understand why you had no choice."
"Everyone?" He asked as he glanced at her.
"Yes, everyone and I truly believe that. I know it will not happen overnight, but in time, everyone will realize that you did not want to do it. The world needed you to make that decision. They came first with you, and that has not changed."
"I hope so, Mom." Clark believed her to a point. It was probably true that some people will understand why he had done it, but there could easily be an outcry, perhaps an investigation into the context of why it had to happen. That is the last thing he needed.
Martha sighed and decided to fix him something to eat.
Against his better judgment, he turned on the television. He was sure the news networks were debating the issue at his expense. The first cable channel he turned to were debating the points of Superman's actions and the narrators appeared to be on his side. The counterpoint had negatives about faith and children looking up to him. What are they going to think now about their superhero? How could he save the world one minute and kill the next? It was as if he were two different people. Sighing, he turned the channel and a narrator was speaking of an online strategy by Lois Lane of the Daily Planet.
"Mom, come quick!" Clark hollered from the living room.
"What is it, Clark?" Martha asked.
"Listen to this," Clark said and waited for the narrator to continue:
"Good morning, everyone. With me this morning are a small group of people who were rescued by Superman since the invasion. First, I wanted to accept the fact that this could not have happened without the drive and determination of Ms. Lois Lane. She will have her say later in the show, but I'm sure everyone wants to hear their stories."
"I have to bring out this unique family first. They were witnesses to Superman's decision to terminate General Zod." They were sitting across from him.
"Welcome to the morning show. Their names are Carl and Linda, and their children are James and Lucy."
Carl spoke up. "Thank you for having us."
"So, it is true that your entire family were witnesses to the battle that led to Superman's decision to destroy Zod."
Martha was so shocked by their appearance that she gasped. She picked up the remote and pushed pause. "Clark?"
"I know Mom. It is surprising how much they look like me and Lois. I still retain their faces even now." Clark was totally fascinated. "How did she find them?"
Martha had two words for him. "Lois Lane."
Clark had to smile. "I have to call her." He pulled out his cellphone and dialed her number.
Lois was about to turn off her cell when she got the call. "Hello, Clark."
"Hello, Lois … I…" Clark began.
"Where are you?"
"In Smallville," he replied.
Lois shook her head. "So you ran home to be with your Mother?"
"No, Lois, I was rescuing all night, and I just got back a little while ago."
"I'm sorry, Clark. That was uncalled for. I assume you are calling because of the morning show?"
"Yes, I … I'm glad, truly glad you were able to do this for me. I do not know what to say." Clark wanted to go home, apologize, kiss her and tell her he was an idiot.
"Well, I'm waiting," she said with a small smile on her face.
Clark wondered sometimes if she could read his mind. "I'm sorry, Lois. I'll be home in a little while."
"I'll see you later. Bye, Clark." A moment's hesitation, then, "I love you."
"I love you too. Bye, Lois." He hung up, relieved and so glad she was on his side with all of this.
Martha pressed play for him to watch the interviews.
"How did she find them?" Clark asked again, still in shock at seeing the family again.
"Well, according to the announcer, they saw it on the website to call or email the Daily Planet if they were rescued by Superman. Lois had gotten the word out, and they responded, as well as nearly fifty others."
He shook his head as he listened to them explain what had happened in the train station.
"Yes, sir," Carl continued. "That's exactly what happened. Superman made a decision to either watch us die or kill him. Zod refused to abandon his heat vision."
Linda spoke up. "It's absolutely true. He saved my family and Superman if you are watching," she turned to the camera, "Thank you for saving us." Tears blinded. "We know it must have been the hardest decision you could have made, but we wanted to thank you and to tell you that we still believe in you and we trust you. That will never change."
"You're the best." That was James.
"I like your costume." That was Lucy.
That lightened the mood for a moment. Clark had to smile at that. Even the kids looked like miniature versions of he and Lois. He was astounded and suddenly extremely confident that everything would work out eventually.
A few minutes later, the announcer introduced Lois Lane, and she appeared, and she looked like a goddess to Clark's eyes. She was wearing a business suit, and her hair was down around her shoulders the way he liked it. She had a smile on her face that was tempered with determination that he had seen many times before. One occasion came to mind. When Faora had insisted that Lois come aboard the spaceship, the look on her face told him that she was not afraid that she wanted to be there to assist in any way. She continuously amazed and delighted him.
"She looks lovely, doesn't she Clark?" Martha was not expecting an answer. She watched as he just stared at the television, enthralled by one Ms. Lois Lane.
The announcer began the discussion. "So, Ms. Lane, everyone knows you and Superman are friends, so why was it so vital for our listeners to hear the testimony of these citizens?"
"I felt it was the most crucial thing I could do for him. Superman saved these people, these families, and these children. I could not sit back and let people think the worst about him. He is here to help us and to save us, nothing more."
"And what happened to Zod, what do you think about it? Is he still your favorite superhero?"
"Of course he is. I do not think any less of him for what he had to do because he had no choice. The family of four sitting right over there, they would not be here if not for him. As far as Zod is concerned, their fight over the city was a true battle between good and evil, and good won that day." He looked skeptical. "Look, I was there, I saw what happened."
The announcer gasped, and so did Clark. "No, Lois, don't."
"You were there?" The announcer was dumbstruck.
"Yes, I was there. I saw the fight." Lois said it again.
"And you can attest to the fact that Superman had no other choice but to kill Zod? Is that you are saying?"
"Yes, it is. He had no other choice," Lois said strong in her answer.
"I see, well, that changes everything."
Lois frowned not understanding. "What do you mean?"
"How do we know that you did not coach these people, put words in their mouths, all because you actually have a crush on Superman? Every one knows it."
"That's ridiculous. I have not met any of them before today. I have not spoken to them either. They are here for one thing to tell us the truth about what happened to them. How he saved them. That is all. I hate what you are implying. I'm an award-winning journalist, and I do my job. I have no reason to lie or to cover-up anything."
The announcer was taken aback by her constant denials. "I see, well, I'm sure our viewers will make up their own minds about this. Thank you, Ms. Lane for coming to our studios today."
"Thank you for having me." Lois turned to the camera and then a commercial played. "How dare you?" Lois stood up, ripped off her mike and walked off the set.
"I do my job too," the announcer said, and Lois heard it.
Lois was outside about to start her car, when her cellphone rang. It was Clark. "Before you say anything, let me apologize. I lost it." She was behind the wheel. She leaned back and tried not to let out a scream.
"It's alright," Clark said. He was hoping to be upbeat.
"It's not alright. I ruined it."
"No, you did not. You did not have time to interview those people, let alone put words in their mouths. It was a silly question, and everyone knew it."
"Everyone?" She asked, not sure about that.
"Yes, everyone," he replied. She was quiet. "Look, are you headed to your apartment or do you need to head into the office?"
She needed him so badly. "My apartment."
"I'll be there in two minutes."
"I'll be there in one," she said and smiled.
"Bye, Lois," he said.
"Bye, Clark."
~o~o~
Lois' apartment, a few minutes later:
Lois had just stepped out of her shoes and dropped her bag on the entrance side table, when she looked up, and Clark came out of the kitchen with two glasses of wine. They stared at each other. Both their hearts were pounding and so intensely happy to see each other that they were a bit numb and unsure what to do. Clark needed to apologize for running off, and Lois felt that she had ruined everything. Because of her, things may have gotten worse.
"Hey," she said a bit shyly. She took the wine from him and took a sip. "Thanks."
"You're welcome," he said and guided her to the sofa.
"Lois, I … I'm sorry," he said.
"I'm sorry too," Lois said. "I just wanted to help you, and I just think it is unfair that people may be afraid of you or think the worst about you. I hate it so much."
"I know you do." Clark took the wine from her pulled her close. "Everything is going to be alright."
She wanted to believe him. "You think so?"
"I know so." He touched her cheek, and he could see that she had been crying.
Sighing, she pulled him closer. "I love you so much and if anyone hurts you, they hurt me."
Holding her close, he whispered, "I feel the same way about you."
He stroked her hair. Lois pulled back and tried to smile. "Clark, can I ask you something?"
"Of course, what is it?"
"That family of four this morning, they look like us. I did not see them clearly in the station, but it's certainly curious how much they look like you and me."
"Yeah, I noticed."
"What do you think it means?" Lois was curious about how he felt about it.
"At first, I told myself it was just a coincidence, but now," he whispered and then he leaned down and kissed her forehead softly, then his lips moved lower and kissed her cheek. Lois closed her eyes and then he kissed her sweetly. His lips moved from hers then they wandered down her throat.
Lois sighed and stroked his hair. "Humm, does this mean you want to have a family with me?"
He slowly lifted his head and smiled. "We really do think alike."
"Really?" Lois was a bit giddy.
"Does that surprise you?"
"Yeah, it does. I'm too sensitive. You saw it yourself, and I do have a temper."
"Only if you are provoked and to protect the ones you love." He stroked her hair behind her ear. "I think you will be a fantastic mother. You will be honest and truthful, a bit tough, but all kids need discipline. Me, I'll probably overwhelm them too much, and they will run from me, and say, 'Dad enough with kisses already.'"
She laughed. "They need both of us, Clark, to balance things out."
They stared at each other and realized they had made a life-changing decision.
He pulled her closer, their foreheads touching. "Are we ready for this?"
"I think we are," Lois replied, firm in her answer.
"I think so too." He reached behind him and pulled out a small velvet box.
Lois was quite surprised. "Clark?"
He got down one knee. "I love you so much. Lois, will you marry me?"
"Oh, Clark, yes, I'll marry you," she whispered, so extremely happy. She knew at that moment that whatever may come, she was lost. He was all that she craved in life, all that she needed, all that she loved. It was as simple as that.
He put the ring on her finger. "It's perfect and so are you."
"You are such a liar," she said and smiled. "Lie to me again."
He stood up, held out his hand and then they walked into the bedroom. She reached up and removed his glasses. "You will not need these," she whispered and placed on the bedside table.
He continued to lie to her. "Your eyes are enthralling. When I look into your eyes, I feel totally lost. What color are they? I have not figured it out."
"Well, to be honest, I'm not sure. They are not blue or green or even brown. They are some weird blue/gray color."
"They are unique, and I love looking into them." He helped her remove her jacket, her blouse and her skirt. She helped him with clothes, as well. She stood before him in her bra and underwear. He had on his boxers.
He continued with the lies. "And your skin is almost translucent and so soft." His hands slowly moved up and down her arms.
"Oh, Clark," she whispered wanting to learn more. "Go on."
Smiling, he continued. "Let us not forget your hair. You know how I love it when it is not pinned up, and it flows everywhere." He reached up and smoothed it down around her face and then he swept it up into his hands and took a whiff. "Smells like flowers and a rich aroma that makes me want to …" He hesitated.
Lois' heart was beating so fast. "Want to do what?"
Instead of answering her, he turned her around, pushed her hair aside and buried his face in her neck. He unbuckled her bra, his hands finding her breasts while his lips continued their magic all over her neck, her ear and her shoulders. He turned her around and kissed her deeply, then down her throat and then the valley between her breasts. He was tender with her then his growing passion refused to be contained.
He picked her up and laid her on the bed. Lois felt his urgency down to her toes. She still had on her panties, and then he removed them slowly. His boxers came off too. Lois arched her back, waiting for him to pleasure her. She stroked and smoothed his hair. "Oh, Clark, I need you so much," she managed to talk.
"I need you too." He smoothed her thighs and hips and stomach, teasing in circles around the scent of her sex. He leaned over her and then his mouth found her beautiful breasts. His lips and tongue were licking and sucking, making her cry out for more. His fingers found their mark and Lois moaned loudly then. The passion in him was now a deafening roar. He parted her thighs, sinking into her.
Their kisses became even more serious, and she moaned into his mouth. Clark took her lips in one serious kiss after another. His hips found the pace, and she followed him stroke for stroke, both needing this closeness like never before.
"Let it go, baby," he whispered against her lips. Then she was moaning, shivering in his arms as she came around him. He covered her mouth with his, swallowing her cries of pleasure as she bucked against him.
Her ecstatic cries and intensity of total freedom triggered his orgasm and he grasped her hips tightly to his, thrusting upward and moaning in pleasure.
Minutes passed then Lois sighed against his chest, and held up her ring hand. "Lie to me just once more please?" She whispered.
"I adore you, and I'll love you forever." He tenderly kissed her forehead.
Lois closed her eyes. "I do not believe you."
"I guess I will have to prove it to you one way or the other."
"You are welcome to try."
"I consider that a challenge." Again, his lips found hers consuming her with his passion.
TBC!
~o~o~
Song Inspiration: All I've Ever Wanted, Mariah Carey.
A/N: Was it worth the wait? They are engaged to be married. YAYY! The Lexica scene was so hard to write. The fact that her father was an uncaring and a terrible person was so hard because of Lena, but I wanted them totally dependent upon Lex. I know this plot twist was a surprise. No one in that family, except Lena, is a likeable person. Lex's response to the news about Clark will be in the next chapter, and then things actually go crazy. Thanks for reading everyone. Comment, please, please, begs unashamed.
Author: Babette babettew54
Canon: Superman (MOS)
Pairings; Characters: Clark/Lois, Martha Kent, Sam Lane, Lucy Lane, Lex Luthor, Bruce Wayne
Rating: M
Word Count: 4,800
Summary: Lois couldn’t decide whether to ask him out or bombard him with questions hopefully to achieve the ‘Story of the Century.’
Spoilers: None. It is 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: I’m back with more of this story which has clearly taken on a life of its own. I knew when I started that I wanted it to be EPIC just as the movie was, but I never expected that my Muse would take me into a corner. Yep, I was stuck for days about how to continue, where to take the characters, explanations about why this happened and that happened, well, it drove me a bit bonkers. So taking a break was what my Muse needed so here we go. I hope you enjoy it. I had fun with it, especially the Clois scenes! Enjoy! :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)
ACT II: All I've Ever Wanted
Chapter 16: Secrets and Lies
Lex's penthouse suite, minutes later:
Lex froze for a moment, and after watching their eager faces, he decided to ignore his daughter's question. He picked up the milk from the counter and placed it back inside the fridge. He stood that way for a moment and thought about an answer to that question. Should I tell her the truth? There were two reasons I had sent her mother away. The first reason was because I actually did intentionally hurt my Father, and the second reason was because I did not need to be bled dry another ex-wife. Of course, he did not disclose any of those things. He turned back to her. "Lena …" He began, but Erica interrupted him.
"Sweetie I know you're hungry. The television is on in the den, and your favorite show is playing right now, and bring your food so you can eat."
"But Mommy …" Lena began.
"Come on, sweetie. Your Mother and Father need to talk," Henri said.
Lena was not a child. She knew exactly what was happening. Pouting, she hopped down from the bar stool then sent a glare in Lex's direction.
After they had left, Lex breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks, Erica."
She came closer and watched him for a moment. "I could see you sweat from across the room."
"I was not sweating," he declared and turned from her. He walked back into the living room. He picked up his cellphone.
He was distancing, and Erica could feel him leaving her. "Lex, tell me everything. I will not judge you."
"You say that now, but I've done things. I do regret hurting you, but I had no choice."
She frowned. "What do you mean you had no choice?"
"Your Father …" He began.
She interrupted him. "What has my Father to do with any of this?"
"Erica you should sit down."
Frowning, she sat down. "My Father loves me, and there's nothing you can say that would change that."
"Erica, your Father came to me years ago before we even met and asked me to give your brother a job."
"What are you talking about? My brother never worked for you. He was a scientist, and he worked for Wayne Enterprises."
"That's true; he did for a time, but then they fired him. Your Father convinced me to hire him."
Erica was confused and upset. "They never said a word."
"I'm sorry about that, but your brother fit right in with my work here." He paused for a moment. "Paul was brilliant, but he also loved money. He came up with ways to continue my work in astrophysics and then one day an experiment went awry, and your brother was injured."
"Oh, no, but my Father never told me about that. He has not mentioned Paul since I woke up, and so much has happened since then. I feel guilty, so where is he?"
"I'm sorry, Erica, but I hate to be the one to tell you this, but Paul never recovered from his injuries. He did not make it." He could see that she was extremely upset. He sat down next to her and pulled her close. "I'm so sorry."
"When was this, and why did he not tell me about it?"
"About six months ago," Lex replied. "I do not know why your father never mentioned it."
"Paul is gone; my little brother is dead. I cannot believe it."
Henri walked in and heard the end of their conversation. Lena was still in the den. "How dare you?" Henri was ready to strangle Lex. He walked over to him and pulled him up by his shirt. "You had no right to do that."
Lex smirked at him but did not say anything.
"Stop it Father." Erica stood up and pulled them apart. "It's not his fault. You should have told me about Paul."
"You should tell her all of it Henri." That was Lex.
Now it was Henri's turn to be frozen in place.
"What did he mean by that?" Erica asked. Henri was still. "Father, tell me everything now. I have a right to know. He was my brother."
He raised his sad eyes to her face. "And he was my son." Henri sighed. He felt defeated, and it was time to let the pieces fall where they may. He sat down, and Erica sat beside him.
"Just start at the beginning." Erica could see he was nervous and distressed.
"He was a brilliant scientist just like you. He admired you, and he wanted to be like you."
"I knew that. Go on," she prompted.
Henri took her hand. "When I went to Lex and asked him to give Paul a job, Lex agreed, but only if I would agree to your marriage. I knew there was no love between you, but I was desperate for money. We were bone dry, sweetie. We were going to lose our home."
Erica was not genuinely surprised to hear the facts about her marriage. She knew it had been arranged, but she did not know, however, that her family had been broke. "There's more, I can tell."
He squeezed her hand. "The night that Lex's father died, he called and told me that you were a witness and that you were going to tell everyone about the experiments, and the work Lex was doing. I knew how much we needed the money, so I agreed to let him send you off. He never told me where you were only that you were safe, and he convinced me that you and the child would be alright."
Erica was now frozen and so utterly shocked, she felt dizzy. Henri reached for her, but she jerked away from him. She stood up and glared at him. "So you chose money over me?" Tears blinded. "My future and my daughter's future did not matter to you. Money was all you saw." She looked him up and down. "I'm sickened by the sight of you. I cannot even think that you would do this to your own daughter."
Henri knew that what he had done would come out eventually but, not like this. "I'm so sorry."
"GET OUT, GET OUT OF MY SIGHT!" Erica was so angry, but that did not stop the tears that fell down her cheek.
"Mommy, why are you shouting? What's the matter?" Lena had never heard her Mother talk that way.
Erica wiped her tears away with the back of her hand then she went to her daughter, and held her close. "Your Grandfather has to leave."
"But why, what happened?" Lena was so scared. She watched as Henri walked over to the door. Lena sensed something was terribly wrong. She ran to him held him tightly around the waist. "Please don't go. Please?" Tears threatened.
Henri squatted down and pulled her into a tight hug. "I'll see you soon. Goodbye, Lena." He kissed her cheek.
"Goodbye, Grandpapa," Lena whispered, confused and sick at heart.
The door closed, and Lena touched it. "Is he coming back?"
"No, sweetie, he has things to do," Erica replied. Barely holding herself together, Lex went to her and tried to pull her close. Erica was still in shock and did not want to rely on him, but she needed him. He put his arm around her then he turned to Lena and held out his arm to her.
Lena hesitated but only for a moment. She ran to them and held them close, her arms around her Mother and her Father. Erica and Lena were crying, but Lex was smiling to himself. Holding them close within his arms, he hoped to appease them. "Everything is going be alright. Trust me."
I could not have planned this any better … I have my family back.
~o~o~
Lois' apartment, minutes after Clark had left:
Lois turned from the window, paced for a moment, hoping to come up with a way to help him. The story would not start until tomorrow morning. She picked her cellphone and called the late night desk at the website.
They followed her instructions to the letter. She convinced them that she would take full responsibility, but it was essential for the inquiries be posted on the site tonight. After hanging up, she knew she would not be able to sleep, so she headed into the office. It was one o'clock in the morning, but she was wide awake. No sooner had she arrived and logged onto her computer, there were already over twenty-five hits of people who had been saved by Superman since the invasion. One email that she had hoped to find popped up. Tears blinded, but they were happy tears.
~o~o~
The next morning in Smallville, Kansas:
Martha had just come back from picking up the paper, and it was as she expected. The headline was clear: Superman Suspected of Killing Zod. Sighing, she closed the paper and entered the house. Clark was sitting at the kitchen table sipping coffee.
"What time did you get in?" Martha asked her son.
He looked up and saw the paper. "It was almost dawn. Is that it?"
"Yes, it is." She handed it to him.
She squeezed his shoulder. "Are you hungry? I could whip up some pancakes and sausage, your favorites."
"I'm not hungry," Clark replied. He could not read the article again. Agitated, he stood up and went to stand by back door. It was a beautiful morning. "I don't know what to do."
"I know, but honey, it is not the end of the world. Lois understands what happened, and I'm sure once they see her story that everyone will understand why you had no choice."
"Everyone?" He asked as he glanced at her.
"Yes, everyone and I truly believe that. I know it will not happen overnight, but in time, everyone will realize that you did not want to do it. The world needed you to make that decision. They came first with you, and that has not changed."
"I hope so, Mom." Clark believed her to a point. It was probably true that some people will understand why he had done it, but there could easily be an outcry, perhaps an investigation into the context of why it had to happen. That is the last thing he needed.
Martha sighed and decided to fix him something to eat.
Against his better judgment, he turned on the television. He was sure the news networks were debating the issue at his expense. The first cable channel he turned to were debating the points of Superman's actions and the narrators appeared to be on his side. The counterpoint had negatives about faith and children looking up to him. What are they going to think now about their superhero? How could he save the world one minute and kill the next? It was as if he were two different people. Sighing, he turned the channel and a narrator was speaking of an online strategy by Lois Lane of the Daily Planet.
"Mom, come quick!" Clark hollered from the living room.
"What is it, Clark?" Martha asked.
"Listen to this," Clark said and waited for the narrator to continue:
"Good morning, everyone. With me this morning are a small group of people who were rescued by Superman since the invasion. First, I wanted to accept the fact that this could not have happened without the drive and determination of Ms. Lois Lane. She will have her say later in the show, but I'm sure everyone wants to hear their stories."
"I have to bring out this unique family first. They were witnesses to Superman's decision to terminate General Zod." They were sitting across from him.
"Welcome to the morning show. Their names are Carl and Linda, and their children are James and Lucy."
Carl spoke up. "Thank you for having us."
"So, it is true that your entire family were witnesses to the battle that led to Superman's decision to destroy Zod."
Martha was so shocked by their appearance that she gasped. She picked up the remote and pushed pause. "Clark?"
"I know Mom. It is surprising how much they look like me and Lois. I still retain their faces even now." Clark was totally fascinated. "How did she find them?"
Martha had two words for him. "Lois Lane."
Clark had to smile. "I have to call her." He pulled out his cellphone and dialed her number.
Lois was about to turn off her cell when she got the call. "Hello, Clark."
"Hello, Lois … I…" Clark began.
"Where are you?"
"In Smallville," he replied.
Lois shook her head. "So you ran home to be with your Mother?"
"No, Lois, I was rescuing all night, and I just got back a little while ago."
"I'm sorry, Clark. That was uncalled for. I assume you are calling because of the morning show?"
"Yes, I … I'm glad, truly glad you were able to do this for me. I do not know what to say." Clark wanted to go home, apologize, kiss her and tell her he was an idiot.
"Well, I'm waiting," she said with a small smile on her face.
Clark wondered sometimes if she could read his mind. "I'm sorry, Lois. I'll be home in a little while."
"I'll see you later. Bye, Clark." A moment's hesitation, then, "I love you."
"I love you too. Bye, Lois." He hung up, relieved and so glad she was on his side with all of this.
Martha pressed play for him to watch the interviews.
"How did she find them?" Clark asked again, still in shock at seeing the family again.
"Well, according to the announcer, they saw it on the website to call or email the Daily Planet if they were rescued by Superman. Lois had gotten the word out, and they responded, as well as nearly fifty others."
He shook his head as he listened to them explain what had happened in the train station.
"Yes, sir," Carl continued. "That's exactly what happened. Superman made a decision to either watch us die or kill him. Zod refused to abandon his heat vision."
Linda spoke up. "It's absolutely true. He saved my family and Superman if you are watching," she turned to the camera, "Thank you for saving us." Tears blinded. "We know it must have been the hardest decision you could have made, but we wanted to thank you and to tell you that we still believe in you and we trust you. That will never change."
"You're the best." That was James.
"I like your costume." That was Lucy.
That lightened the mood for a moment. Clark had to smile at that. Even the kids looked like miniature versions of he and Lois. He was astounded and suddenly extremely confident that everything would work out eventually.
A few minutes later, the announcer introduced Lois Lane, and she appeared, and she looked like a goddess to Clark's eyes. She was wearing a business suit, and her hair was down around her shoulders the way he liked it. She had a smile on her face that was tempered with determination that he had seen many times before. One occasion came to mind. When Faora had insisted that Lois come aboard the spaceship, the look on her face told him that she was not afraid that she wanted to be there to assist in any way. She continuously amazed and delighted him.
"She looks lovely, doesn't she Clark?" Martha was not expecting an answer. She watched as he just stared at the television, enthralled by one Ms. Lois Lane.
The announcer began the discussion. "So, Ms. Lane, everyone knows you and Superman are friends, so why was it so vital for our listeners to hear the testimony of these citizens?"
"I felt it was the most crucial thing I could do for him. Superman saved these people, these families, and these children. I could not sit back and let people think the worst about him. He is here to help us and to save us, nothing more."
"And what happened to Zod, what do you think about it? Is he still your favorite superhero?"
"Of course he is. I do not think any less of him for what he had to do because he had no choice. The family of four sitting right over there, they would not be here if not for him. As far as Zod is concerned, their fight over the city was a true battle between good and evil, and good won that day." He looked skeptical. "Look, I was there, I saw what happened."
The announcer gasped, and so did Clark. "No, Lois, don't."
"You were there?" The announcer was dumbstruck.
"Yes, I was there. I saw the fight." Lois said it again.
"And you can attest to the fact that Superman had no other choice but to kill Zod? Is that you are saying?"
"Yes, it is. He had no other choice," Lois said strong in her answer.
"I see, well, that changes everything."
Lois frowned not understanding. "What do you mean?"
"How do we know that you did not coach these people, put words in their mouths, all because you actually have a crush on Superman? Every one knows it."
"That's ridiculous. I have not met any of them before today. I have not spoken to them either. They are here for one thing to tell us the truth about what happened to them. How he saved them. That is all. I hate what you are implying. I'm an award-winning journalist, and I do my job. I have no reason to lie or to cover-up anything."
The announcer was taken aback by her constant denials. "I see, well, I'm sure our viewers will make up their own minds about this. Thank you, Ms. Lane for coming to our studios today."
"Thank you for having me." Lois turned to the camera and then a commercial played. "How dare you?" Lois stood up, ripped off her mike and walked off the set.
"I do my job too," the announcer said, and Lois heard it.
Lois was outside about to start her car, when her cellphone rang. It was Clark. "Before you say anything, let me apologize. I lost it." She was behind the wheel. She leaned back and tried not to let out a scream.
"It's alright," Clark said. He was hoping to be upbeat.
"It's not alright. I ruined it."
"No, you did not. You did not have time to interview those people, let alone put words in their mouths. It was a silly question, and everyone knew it."
"Everyone?" She asked, not sure about that.
"Yes, everyone," he replied. She was quiet. "Look, are you headed to your apartment or do you need to head into the office?"
She needed him so badly. "My apartment."
"I'll be there in two minutes."
"I'll be there in one," she said and smiled.
"Bye, Lois," he said.
"Bye, Clark."
~o~o~
Lois' apartment, a few minutes later:
Lois had just stepped out of her shoes and dropped her bag on the entrance side table, when she looked up, and Clark came out of the kitchen with two glasses of wine. They stared at each other. Both their hearts were pounding and so intensely happy to see each other that they were a bit numb and unsure what to do. Clark needed to apologize for running off, and Lois felt that she had ruined everything. Because of her, things may have gotten worse.
"Hey," she said a bit shyly. She took the wine from him and took a sip. "Thanks."
"You're welcome," he said and guided her to the sofa.
"Lois, I … I'm sorry," he said.
"I'm sorry too," Lois said. "I just wanted to help you, and I just think it is unfair that people may be afraid of you or think the worst about you. I hate it so much."
"I know you do." Clark took the wine from her pulled her close. "Everything is going to be alright."
She wanted to believe him. "You think so?"
"I know so." He touched her cheek, and he could see that she had been crying.
Sighing, she pulled him closer. "I love you so much and if anyone hurts you, they hurt me."
Holding her close, he whispered, "I feel the same way about you."
He stroked her hair. Lois pulled back and tried to smile. "Clark, can I ask you something?"
"Of course, what is it?"
"That family of four this morning, they look like us. I did not see them clearly in the station, but it's certainly curious how much they look like you and me."
"Yeah, I noticed."
"What do you think it means?" Lois was curious about how he felt about it.
"At first, I told myself it was just a coincidence, but now," he whispered and then he leaned down and kissed her forehead softly, then his lips moved lower and kissed her cheek. Lois closed her eyes and then he kissed her sweetly. His lips moved from hers then they wandered down her throat.
Lois sighed and stroked his hair. "Humm, does this mean you want to have a family with me?"
He slowly lifted his head and smiled. "We really do think alike."
"Really?" Lois was a bit giddy.
"Does that surprise you?"
"Yeah, it does. I'm too sensitive. You saw it yourself, and I do have a temper."
"Only if you are provoked and to protect the ones you love." He stroked her hair behind her ear. "I think you will be a fantastic mother. You will be honest and truthful, a bit tough, but all kids need discipline. Me, I'll probably overwhelm them too much, and they will run from me, and say, 'Dad enough with kisses already.'"
She laughed. "They need both of us, Clark, to balance things out."
They stared at each other and realized they had made a life-changing decision.
He pulled her closer, their foreheads touching. "Are we ready for this?"
"I think we are," Lois replied, firm in her answer.
"I think so too." He reached behind him and pulled out a small velvet box.
Lois was quite surprised. "Clark?"
He got down one knee. "I love you so much. Lois, will you marry me?"
"Oh, Clark, yes, I'll marry you," she whispered, so extremely happy. She knew at that moment that whatever may come, she was lost. He was all that she craved in life, all that she needed, all that she loved. It was as simple as that.
He put the ring on her finger. "It's perfect and so are you."
"You are such a liar," she said and smiled. "Lie to me again."
He stood up, held out his hand and then they walked into the bedroom. She reached up and removed his glasses. "You will not need these," she whispered and placed on the bedside table.
He continued to lie to her. "Your eyes are enthralling. When I look into your eyes, I feel totally lost. What color are they? I have not figured it out."
"Well, to be honest, I'm not sure. They are not blue or green or even brown. They are some weird blue/gray color."
"They are unique, and I love looking into them." He helped her remove her jacket, her blouse and her skirt. She helped him with clothes, as well. She stood before him in her bra and underwear. He had on his boxers.
He continued with the lies. "And your skin is almost translucent and so soft." His hands slowly moved up and down her arms.
"Oh, Clark," she whispered wanting to learn more. "Go on."
Smiling, he continued. "Let us not forget your hair. You know how I love it when it is not pinned up, and it flows everywhere." He reached up and smoothed it down around her face and then he swept it up into his hands and took a whiff. "Smells like flowers and a rich aroma that makes me want to …" He hesitated.
Lois' heart was beating so fast. "Want to do what?"
Instead of answering her, he turned her around, pushed her hair aside and buried his face in her neck. He unbuckled her bra, his hands finding her breasts while his lips continued their magic all over her neck, her ear and her shoulders. He turned her around and kissed her deeply, then down her throat and then the valley between her breasts. He was tender with her then his growing passion refused to be contained.
He picked her up and laid her on the bed. Lois felt his urgency down to her toes. She still had on her panties, and then he removed them slowly. His boxers came off too. Lois arched her back, waiting for him to pleasure her. She stroked and smoothed his hair. "Oh, Clark, I need you so much," she managed to talk.
"I need you too." He smoothed her thighs and hips and stomach, teasing in circles around the scent of her sex. He leaned over her and then his mouth found her beautiful breasts. His lips and tongue were licking and sucking, making her cry out for more. His fingers found their mark and Lois moaned loudly then. The passion in him was now a deafening roar. He parted her thighs, sinking into her.
Their kisses became even more serious, and she moaned into his mouth. Clark took her lips in one serious kiss after another. His hips found the pace, and she followed him stroke for stroke, both needing this closeness like never before.
"Let it go, baby," he whispered against her lips. Then she was moaning, shivering in his arms as she came around him. He covered her mouth with his, swallowing her cries of pleasure as she bucked against him.
Her ecstatic cries and intensity of total freedom triggered his orgasm and he grasped her hips tightly to his, thrusting upward and moaning in pleasure.
Minutes passed then Lois sighed against his chest, and held up her ring hand. "Lie to me just once more please?" She whispered.
"I adore you, and I'll love you forever." He tenderly kissed her forehead.
Lois closed her eyes. "I do not believe you."
"I guess I will have to prove it to you one way or the other."
"You are welcome to try."
"I consider that a challenge." Again, his lips found hers consuming her with his passion.
TBC!
~o~o~
Song Inspiration: All I've Ever Wanted, Mariah Carey.
A/N: Was it worth the wait? They are engaged to be married. YAYY! The Lexica scene was so hard to write. The fact that her father was an uncaring and a terrible person was so hard because of Lena, but I wanted them totally dependent upon Lex. I know this plot twist was a surprise. No one in that family, except Lena, is a likeable person. Lex's response to the news about Clark will be in the next chapter, and then things actually go crazy. Thanks for reading everyone. Comment, please, please, begs unashamed.