Accidentally in Love Chapter 20
We're reaching the end, folks. This is the second to last chapter. I hope you all like it. Let me know! :)
Story: Accidentally in Love
Pairing/Characters: Clark/Oliver, Chloe/Jimmy, Lois/Oliver
Rating: R
Disclaimer: don’t own anything
Warning: slash, m/m sex
Spoilers: slight season 7
Summary: Oliver returns to Metropolis on business. Clark’s depressed over Lana’s death. An unexpected encounter leads them to a friends with benefits situation, neither willing to get into a real relationship.
Previous Chapters: Here
Chapter 20
Clark could only stare in horror at the scene in front of him. NO … this can’t be … he wouldn’t do this to me. But the evidence was right there and he couldn’t avoid it.
Tears prickled at the back of his eyes. How could Oliver do that? Not wanting to be seen, Clark stepped back into the elevator and left without a word.
As the elevator began to descend, Clark had a difficult time fighting back tears. This was completely unfair … how could this happen to him? His heart felt like it had been ripped out of his chest … it just hurt so much.
This was way worse than when he stumbled upon Lana kissing Lex … he thought he felt betrayed then. Now … he just wanted to die.
The pain wracked his body and his mind was in a jumbled state. Oliver … why? Why her? Why not me?
The minute he was on the ground, he was speeding back to Smallville. He couldn’t have stayed in the penthouse … he didn’t want to face Lois and Oliver when they finally did break apart. Not when he had no idea what to say … not anymore, anyway.
Tears that had been threatening to spill over did and were streaming down his face as he made his way back to the farm. Clark couldn’t stay in the same city as him … as them. Even Smallville felt too close.
Hell, nowhere on Earth seemed far enough but at least the farm was safe. Within minutes, he saw the farm and he quickly retreated to his loft. He stumbled up the stairs, his knees buckling as he reached the couch.
Letting himself collapse on the ground, Clark buried his head in his hands, choking a sob. He never lost control like this but right now, he couldn’t help himself. There was so much pain … he couldn’t close his eyes without seeing Oliver’s lips on Lois’ … god only knew what those two were doing now.
He felt sick to his stomach as more images popped up in his mind, all of Lois and Oliver. It was nauseating.
Hearing footsteps, he looked up, his teary eyes going wide as he saw Kara at the top of the steps, looking at him sympathetically.
“You’re still here?” he asked.
“Yeah,” Kara said. “Oh Kal-El …” She made her way to his side, crouching down.
“I went to tell him that I loved him,” he said, “And there he was … kissing Lois.”
Kara gasped. “Are you serious?”
“Yeah, I couldn’t believe it,” Clark said sadly, “I mean … I thought I meant more to him than that.”
“I was worried about you,” Kara admitted. Clark looked at her quizzically. She paused and pulled out an object from her pocket, handing it to him.
Looking down, he was surprised to see his cell phone.
“You forgot this,” she said softly, “And right after you left, I heard it ringing … I picked it up because I was worried it may be important.”
“Who was it?” Clark interrupted, wondering where this story was going.
“Chloe,” Kara answered, frowning slightly. “Apparently, she had been desperately trying to reach you … Lois broke up with Grant and she wanted to go see Oliver … to see if they had a chance of getting back together.”
“Well, obviously she got her answer,” Clark said, bitterness evident in his tone. “Oliver was clearly too happy to pick up where they left off.”
“I’m so sorry, Kal-El,” Kara said, “I wish I knew how to make this better …”
“Nobody can,” Clark replied, his throat tightening. “This whole situation just sucks … I mean, I knew that there was a chance Ollie may not love me back but to find him kissing her?”
The pain morphed into an indescribable anger. He was furious all of a sudden … and all his anger was channeled toward Oliver. How could the blonde toy with him like that?
Ever since he started changing his behavior, he must’ve realized that Clark would think something was up. And there was no way after last night he would believe Clark thought it was about the sex.
Oliver had a lot of nerve kissing Lois now when he had just had sex with Clark that morning. What was wrong with him?
The brunette clenched his fists unconsciously.
“Kal-El?” Kara seemed concerned at his change of attitude.
“I mean, I know we never made any commitments,” Clark said, “But the idiot gave me a ring …” His fingers went to the aforementioned ring, still hanging around his neck.
“Kal-El,” Kara started but Clark was quick to cut her off.
“No, Kara, I’ve found out the hard way what type of man he is,” Clark said icily, “He made all these plans for last night … made me feel so special and then he turns around and kisses his ex. If he didn’t want anything but a sex only relationship, that’s one thing … but his behavior has been anything but over the past week.”
“If that is so,” Kara said thoughtfully, “Then doesn’t he get a chance to explain himself? Maybe this whole thing was a misunderstanding.”
“A misunderstanding?” Clark scoffed, “As in, he tripped and his lips fell on hers?”
“Kal-El,” Kara chided.
“I don’t see what explanation there could be,” Clark told her. “I saw them kissing, Kara … this wasn’t some third party telling me … I saw it for myself. How can there be any misunderstandings in that?”
“I was just hoping that there was a way to make this all right,” Kara responded. “He just doesn’t seem like that type of guy … from the few short times I met him, I believed he genuinely cared about you.”
“Maybe he does,” Clark said, “And we both enjoyed the sex … that’s for sure. But the minute he found out Lois was single again, he didn’t hesitate.” He sighed, no trace of anger left in his voice, just a sense of resignation. “She will always come first to him and I just have to accept that.”
“I’m so sorry, Kal-El,” Kara said, stroking his back.
Green eyes met blue.
“Me too Kara,” Clark said. “Me too.”
Seconds after Clark left, Oliver pulled away from Lois, too shocked at what had happened. Looking at the woman in his arms, he felt nothing.
How had he ended up in this mess? When Lois had come over to talk, he had never pictured this happening.
“We need to talk.”
Oliver was puzzled but nodded anyway. “Sure … what about?”
“Oliver,” Lois said, “I’m not quite sure how to say this …”
“Is everything okay, Lois?” Oliver asked worriedly.
“It’s fine,” she was quick to say. “For the most part anyway.”
“Then what’s going on?” Oliver wanted to know. He had never seen Lois this tense and it had him on the edge.
“Oliver, remember when you came to see me?” Lois asked. “Right after you got to Metropolis?”
“Yeah,” Oliver said slowly. “What about it?” He frowned. “Lois, I thought we cleared that up when we agreed to be friends.”
“We did clear it up,” Lois said, “For the most part. Ollie, when you offered to tell me everything, you have no idea how much I wanted to say yes.”
“Then why didn’t you?” Oliver couldn’t resist asking. “I mean, I know there was Grant …”
“There was Grant,” Lois agreed, “But I just … I was so angry at you when you left. For you to come waltzing back … I was upset at you for your sudden appearance … I was upset at me for wanting you there …”
“You had a right to be upset, Lois,” Oliver told her. “I mean … we discussed this … I feel horrible for the way I hurt you.”
“I did some thinking,” Lois continued. “I’ve done a lot of thinking in fact. About the day you left, about the day you showed up. Ollie, I know that leaving wasn’t easy for you. I was caught up in my own pain back then but now that I reflect, I can see that.”
“I did love you, Lois,” Oliver said honestly. “I know you may find it hard to believe but …”
“No, I believe it,” Lois said hurriedly. “Maybe I even believed it then, which was why I was so furious. Because I was disappointed that it wasn’t enough for you to stay or trust me with what you’re doing. So when you came over, I wanted you to see that I moved on too … that I was true to my word and I didn’t wait.”
“Why are you bringing all of this up now?” Oliver questioned.
Lois swallowed hard. “Because I haven’t been able to stop thinking about your visit since you walked out of the door …”
‘Oh no …’ Oliver’s stomach sank. A few months ago, he would’ve given anything to have her say those words to him … but now? Now, his heart was not his to give anymore. No, it was fully in the hands of one Clark Kent.
“Lois,” he interjected but she wouldn’t let him speak.
“No, Ollie, I have to say this,” Lois responded. Seeing he had no choice, he nodded and hoped silently that he wouldn’t hurt her too much.
“I broke up with Grant today,” Lois admitted.
“You did?” Oliver echoed, trying hard not to cringe.
“It wasn’t fair to him when I’m not completely with him,” Lois explained. “I just didn’t imagine my future with Grant by my side … so I figured it was best to split up before either one of us were in too deep.”
“I suppose that makes sense,” Oliver managed to say. ‘Please Lois … don’t do this.’
“And I know this sounds crazy,” Lois said, “But maybe we still have a chance …”
“Lois,” Oliver tried but before he could speak, Lois leaned up and captured his lips.
Instinctively, he responded to the kiss.
Neither heard the elevator open or saw the hurt green eyes of one Clark Kent.
This is not good. The kiss was nice and all but Oliver hadn’t felt a thing. He didn’t feel that spark he used to when they were together … he didn’t feel an ounce of what he felt when Clark kissed him before he left that morning.
“Ollie,” Lois said as he said, “Lois.”
They both chuckled nervously.
“Lois, I’m sorry,” Oliver said, before she could say anything. “I’m in love with someone else. I just … I loved you once … and when I came to see you, I did want to get back together … but now …”
“Now the spark is gone,” Lois finished.
Oliver’s mouth dropped in shock and he wordlessly nodded.
“I know, Ollie,” Lois told him wryly, “I felt it too … the chemistry we once had is gone, isn’t it?”
“It is,” he said, giving her a small smile.
“I guess I had to know for sure,” Lois replied, “I mean … I didn’t want to live my life wondering ‘what if’.”
“It’s good to know for sure,” Oliver offered.
“And now we have some closure,” Lois concluded.
“Yeah,” Oliver said, realizing the truth of the statement, “We do.”
Lois smiled and Oliver smiled back. He too was glad to get this closure … he was one hundred percent positive that he did not care for Lois that way anymore and it was a relief.
Lois tilted her head and stared at him. “Did you just say you’re in love with someone else?”
“I did,” Oliver confirmed.
“Wow,” Lois said, “I didn’t realize you were even in a relationship.”
“It’s complicated,” Oliver replied.
Lois nodded slowly, her eyes darting around the penthouse. She then let out a gasp.
“What?” Oliver asked.
“Clark,” she said suddenly.
“Clark?” he echoed.
She met his gaze. “You’re in love with Clark,” Lois declared.
Oliver just stared at her. How did she figure that one out?
“It makes sense now,” Lois exclaimed. “I mean … all the times he has spent with you. The mystery, expensive gift …” She smirked. “The fact that his jacket is lying on your couch.”
He immediately turned in that direction and found that Clark’s jacket was indeed lying on his couch.
“He could’ve just left it here,” Oliver said, finding words again.
“Are you denying my claims?” Lois said, amused. “Really?”
Oliver sighed. “No.”
She grinned triumphantly. “You’re in love with Clark! Have the two of you been dating?”
“We haven’t been dating,” Oliver told her. “We’re in a friends with benefits situation.”
“Really?” Lois seemed to be getting more delighted by the moment. “Smallville?”
She stopped, her eyes narrowing. “You aren’t taking advantage of my best friend, are you, Queen?”
“It was his idea!” Oliver protested. He really didn’t want Lois to get the wrong idea … she may make fun of Clark but she knew that she was extremely protective of him too.
“I’m in love with him, Lois,” Oliver added, “And I have full intentions on telling him that, on making this a real relationship.”
“Good,” Lois said, pleased. She smiled warmly. “I’m glad it is Clark … lately, he’s been so happy, Ollie and if you did that … then I approve.”
“Thanks Lois,” Oliver said, relieved.
“I can’t believe nobody told me,” Lois said disappointedly. “Smallville initiating a sex only relationship is news … I missed out on weeks of teasing.”
“I’m sure you can make up for it later,” Oliver joked and she grinned.
“You bet I will,” Lois replied.
Oliver chuckled at her expression.
“But,” Lois was quick to say, “Don’t hurt him, Oliver …”
“Trust me,” he assured her, “I wouldn’t do that … besides, I’ve already been threatened.”
“Chloe,” Lois realized aloud. She shook her head. “That explains why she was trying to persuade me not to come here.”
“She was told not to tell anyone,” Oliver said, worried Lois may get upset at her cousin.
“Don’t worry, I know,” Lois replied. “I’m not completely dense, Ollie … between the two of them, Smallville and Chloe have more secrets than the FBI … it sucks sometimes being left out of the loop but I get it.”
Lois really was sharper than she let on … but Oliver had learned at an early stage of their relationship not to underestimate her.
“I have to get going,” Lois told him, “But I’ll see you later, Ollie.”
“Sounds good,” Oliver said, “Take care of yourself.”
“You too,” Lois replied. “And take care of my best friend too.”
“I will do that,” Oliver promised. “Bye Lois.”
“Bye Oliver,” Lois said. He watched silently as she entered the elevator and disappeared.
Everything had gone off better than he could have ever hoped. He was really relieved that Lois had taken the news of Clark and him so well.
The blonde shook his head. It was ironic that everyone was learning of his love for Clark … everyone except the one person that mattered.
That changes today. In fact, it was going to change right now.
Grabbing his keys, Oliver headed out. Clark’s probably still at the farm. No problem … he would go to him.
It was time to go see Clark and tell him that he loved him.
If he was lucky, Clark would love him too and by the end of the day, he’d have a boyfriend.
“I’m so sorry Clark.”
Clark smiled sadly into the phone. “I know, Chloe … I just really thought that he’d be the one.”
“I was convinced he loved you,” Chloe replied.
After speaking with Kara, he decided to call Chloe back, knowing the blonde would be wondering what happened.
Kara had left, to give him some privacy and he promised her that he would be okay. Though he wasn’t sure of it himself, he didn’t want her to worry.
“I was hoping he would,” Clark told Chloe. “I mean … after last night, I was certain I wasn’t alone in my feelings.”
“I can’t believe he did this to you,” Chloe said, anger creeping in her voice. “I was worried when Lois said that she was going to see him but the only real reason I was concerned because I didn’t want to see Lois hurt. I was positive Oliver would turn her down.”
“Guess you were wrong,” Clark told her. “She obviously still means everything to him … she said she wanted him back and he didn’t think twice.”
“It’s just none of this makes sense!” Chloe declared.
“What doesn’t make sense?” Clark asked. “I mean, we never said ‘I love you’. He never said he wanted a relationship. Just because it seemed that we were going in that direction doesn’t mean we actually were.”
“It’s just … he hasn’t been acting like he wanted the sex for a while now Clark,” Chloe said pointedly.
“Perhaps not,” Clark said. “And maybe he even contemplated a relationship … but he saw that Lois was back and probably realized that he still wanted her.”
“So what are you going to do?” Chloe wanted to know.
“Move on,” Clark said simply. “I got my answer … there is no need for me to go humiliate myself at Ollie’s feet, proclaiming my love.”
“This stinks, Clark,” Chloe said. “Will you be okay?”
“If you’re asking me if I’ll be okay right now, no I’m not okay,” Clark said honestly. “I’m in love with a man who doesn’t love me back. But I will be someday. It’s good that I found out the truth.”
“If you need to talk, I’m here,” Chloe said. “Do you want me to come to the farm?”
“No, I just think I want to be alone,” Clark replied. “But I’ll be back tonight so I’ll see you then. Don’t worry about me, Chloe … I will be fine.”
“If you say so,” Chloe said doubtfully.
“I do say so,” Clark said, a small smile gracing his face, even though he knew she couldn’t see him. “I am going to get off the phone now … I need some time to think. Bye Chloe.”
“Bye Clark,” Chloe said.
He hung up, standing to go walk to the edge of the loft, near the opening. Staring out into the sky, he couldn’t believe how a few hours could change everything.
That morning, he had been the happiest man ever and now … now everything he thought he had was gone.
Moving on from Ollie would not be easy … he was sure that they would have to talk sometime. Oliver would want to tell him that the two of them were done, that he was with Lois.
But after that, he hoped that their meeting would be few and far apart. Seeing Oliver would only hurt and he needed the distance to help him move on.
Clark had no idea how long he was standing out there but when he heard a noise, he smiled.
“Kara,” he chided playfully. “I told you that you didn’t need to come back.”
“You know,” a voice said, that was definitely not his cousin. “You’re going to give me a complex if you keep mistaking me for Kara.”
Heart sinking, Clark turned around and faced the one person he really didn’t want to see.
“Oliver.”
Oliver grinned at Clark but when he saw the brunette’s expression, his smile faded. Clark looked upset and upon laying eyes on him, he seemed to grow serious.
“Hey Clark,” Oliver said, taking a few steps toward the younger man. “How are you doing?”
“Not bad,” Clark said, but the tone of his voice was off. It wasn’t the Clark he was used to. “And yourself?”
“I’m good,” Oliver told him.
“How was your day?” Clark asked.
Oliver closed the distance between them and smirked.
“Well,” He said, wrapping his arms around the brunette’s waist. “It wasn’t as good after a certain farm boy left me this morning but it’s better now that I’m here with you.”
A little flirting never hurt anyone, was what Oliver decided.
But Clark was completely unresponsive, even going to the length of stepping out of Oliver’s embrace. What the …?
“Clark,” Oliver said, “Are you okay?”
“I’m fine,” Clark replied. “Why shouldn’t I be?”
“What’s going on with you then? Oliver asked, concerned.
“Oliver, I have been thinking,” Clark said slowly. “And I have to tell you something.”
“Great, because I have to tell you something too,” Oliver replied.
“It’s about the state of our relationship,” Clark went on, as if he hadn’t even said anything.
“That’s what I wanted to talk to you about too,” Oliver confessed.
“Wonderful,” Clark said. A steely gaze met his. “I hope you don’t mind if I go first?”
“Go ahead,” Oliver said.
“Good,” Clark replied.
Oliver looked at him expectantly, a part of him slightly worried but confident. He should’ve taken Clark’s serious behavior to mind though because his next words caught him completely off guard.
“I don’t think we should do this anymore.”
Chapter 21
Story: Accidentally in Love
Pairing/Characters: Clark/Oliver, Chloe/Jimmy, Lois/Oliver
Rating: R
Disclaimer: don’t own anything
Warning: slash, m/m sex
Spoilers: slight season 7
Summary: Oliver returns to Metropolis on business. Clark’s depressed over Lana’s death. An unexpected encounter leads them to a friends with benefits situation, neither willing to get into a real relationship.
Previous Chapters: Here
Chapter 20
Clark could only stare in horror at the scene in front of him. NO … this can’t be … he wouldn’t do this to me. But the evidence was right there and he couldn’t avoid it.
Tears prickled at the back of his eyes. How could Oliver do that? Not wanting to be seen, Clark stepped back into the elevator and left without a word.
As the elevator began to descend, Clark had a difficult time fighting back tears. This was completely unfair … how could this happen to him? His heart felt like it had been ripped out of his chest … it just hurt so much.
This was way worse than when he stumbled upon Lana kissing Lex … he thought he felt betrayed then. Now … he just wanted to die.
The pain wracked his body and his mind was in a jumbled state. Oliver … why? Why her? Why not me?
The minute he was on the ground, he was speeding back to Smallville. He couldn’t have stayed in the penthouse … he didn’t want to face Lois and Oliver when they finally did break apart. Not when he had no idea what to say … not anymore, anyway.
Tears that had been threatening to spill over did and were streaming down his face as he made his way back to the farm. Clark couldn’t stay in the same city as him … as them. Even Smallville felt too close.
Hell, nowhere on Earth seemed far enough but at least the farm was safe. Within minutes, he saw the farm and he quickly retreated to his loft. He stumbled up the stairs, his knees buckling as he reached the couch.
Letting himself collapse on the ground, Clark buried his head in his hands, choking a sob. He never lost control like this but right now, he couldn’t help himself. There was so much pain … he couldn’t close his eyes without seeing Oliver’s lips on Lois’ … god only knew what those two were doing now.
He felt sick to his stomach as more images popped up in his mind, all of Lois and Oliver. It was nauseating.
Hearing footsteps, he looked up, his teary eyes going wide as he saw Kara at the top of the steps, looking at him sympathetically.
“You’re still here?” he asked.
“Yeah,” Kara said. “Oh Kal-El …” She made her way to his side, crouching down.
“I went to tell him that I loved him,” he said, “And there he was … kissing Lois.”
Kara gasped. “Are you serious?”
“Yeah, I couldn’t believe it,” Clark said sadly, “I mean … I thought I meant more to him than that.”
“I was worried about you,” Kara admitted. Clark looked at her quizzically. She paused and pulled out an object from her pocket, handing it to him.
Looking down, he was surprised to see his cell phone.
“You forgot this,” she said softly, “And right after you left, I heard it ringing … I picked it up because I was worried it may be important.”
“Who was it?” Clark interrupted, wondering where this story was going.
“Chloe,” Kara answered, frowning slightly. “Apparently, she had been desperately trying to reach you … Lois broke up with Grant and she wanted to go see Oliver … to see if they had a chance of getting back together.”
“Well, obviously she got her answer,” Clark said, bitterness evident in his tone. “Oliver was clearly too happy to pick up where they left off.”
“I’m so sorry, Kal-El,” Kara said, “I wish I knew how to make this better …”
“Nobody can,” Clark replied, his throat tightening. “This whole situation just sucks … I mean, I knew that there was a chance Ollie may not love me back but to find him kissing her?”
The pain morphed into an indescribable anger. He was furious all of a sudden … and all his anger was channeled toward Oliver. How could the blonde toy with him like that?
Ever since he started changing his behavior, he must’ve realized that Clark would think something was up. And there was no way after last night he would believe Clark thought it was about the sex.
Oliver had a lot of nerve kissing Lois now when he had just had sex with Clark that morning. What was wrong with him?
The brunette clenched his fists unconsciously.
“Kal-El?” Kara seemed concerned at his change of attitude.
“I mean, I know we never made any commitments,” Clark said, “But the idiot gave me a ring …” His fingers went to the aforementioned ring, still hanging around his neck.
“Kal-El,” Kara started but Clark was quick to cut her off.
“No, Kara, I’ve found out the hard way what type of man he is,” Clark said icily, “He made all these plans for last night … made me feel so special and then he turns around and kisses his ex. If he didn’t want anything but a sex only relationship, that’s one thing … but his behavior has been anything but over the past week.”
“If that is so,” Kara said thoughtfully, “Then doesn’t he get a chance to explain himself? Maybe this whole thing was a misunderstanding.”
“A misunderstanding?” Clark scoffed, “As in, he tripped and his lips fell on hers?”
“Kal-El,” Kara chided.
“I don’t see what explanation there could be,” Clark told her. “I saw them kissing, Kara … this wasn’t some third party telling me … I saw it for myself. How can there be any misunderstandings in that?”
“I was just hoping that there was a way to make this all right,” Kara responded. “He just doesn’t seem like that type of guy … from the few short times I met him, I believed he genuinely cared about you.”
“Maybe he does,” Clark said, “And we both enjoyed the sex … that’s for sure. But the minute he found out Lois was single again, he didn’t hesitate.” He sighed, no trace of anger left in his voice, just a sense of resignation. “She will always come first to him and I just have to accept that.”
“I’m so sorry, Kal-El,” Kara said, stroking his back.
Green eyes met blue.
“Me too Kara,” Clark said. “Me too.”
Seconds after Clark left, Oliver pulled away from Lois, too shocked at what had happened. Looking at the woman in his arms, he felt nothing.
How had he ended up in this mess? When Lois had come over to talk, he had never pictured this happening.
“We need to talk.”
Oliver was puzzled but nodded anyway. “Sure … what about?”
“Oliver,” Lois said, “I’m not quite sure how to say this …”
“Is everything okay, Lois?” Oliver asked worriedly.
“It’s fine,” she was quick to say. “For the most part anyway.”
“Then what’s going on?” Oliver wanted to know. He had never seen Lois this tense and it had him on the edge.
“Oliver, remember when you came to see me?” Lois asked. “Right after you got to Metropolis?”
“Yeah,” Oliver said slowly. “What about it?” He frowned. “Lois, I thought we cleared that up when we agreed to be friends.”
“We did clear it up,” Lois said, “For the most part. Ollie, when you offered to tell me everything, you have no idea how much I wanted to say yes.”
“Then why didn’t you?” Oliver couldn’t resist asking. “I mean, I know there was Grant …”
“There was Grant,” Lois agreed, “But I just … I was so angry at you when you left. For you to come waltzing back … I was upset at you for your sudden appearance … I was upset at me for wanting you there …”
“You had a right to be upset, Lois,” Oliver told her. “I mean … we discussed this … I feel horrible for the way I hurt you.”
“I did some thinking,” Lois continued. “I’ve done a lot of thinking in fact. About the day you left, about the day you showed up. Ollie, I know that leaving wasn’t easy for you. I was caught up in my own pain back then but now that I reflect, I can see that.”
“I did love you, Lois,” Oliver said honestly. “I know you may find it hard to believe but …”
“No, I believe it,” Lois said hurriedly. “Maybe I even believed it then, which was why I was so furious. Because I was disappointed that it wasn’t enough for you to stay or trust me with what you’re doing. So when you came over, I wanted you to see that I moved on too … that I was true to my word and I didn’t wait.”
“Why are you bringing all of this up now?” Oliver questioned.
Lois swallowed hard. “Because I haven’t been able to stop thinking about your visit since you walked out of the door …”
‘Oh no …’ Oliver’s stomach sank. A few months ago, he would’ve given anything to have her say those words to him … but now? Now, his heart was not his to give anymore. No, it was fully in the hands of one Clark Kent.
“Lois,” he interjected but she wouldn’t let him speak.
“No, Ollie, I have to say this,” Lois responded. Seeing he had no choice, he nodded and hoped silently that he wouldn’t hurt her too much.
“I broke up with Grant today,” Lois admitted.
“You did?” Oliver echoed, trying hard not to cringe.
“It wasn’t fair to him when I’m not completely with him,” Lois explained. “I just didn’t imagine my future with Grant by my side … so I figured it was best to split up before either one of us were in too deep.”
“I suppose that makes sense,” Oliver managed to say. ‘Please Lois … don’t do this.’
“And I know this sounds crazy,” Lois said, “But maybe we still have a chance …”
“Lois,” Oliver tried but before he could speak, Lois leaned up and captured his lips.
Instinctively, he responded to the kiss.
Neither heard the elevator open or saw the hurt green eyes of one Clark Kent.
This is not good. The kiss was nice and all but Oliver hadn’t felt a thing. He didn’t feel that spark he used to when they were together … he didn’t feel an ounce of what he felt when Clark kissed him before he left that morning.
“Ollie,” Lois said as he said, “Lois.”
They both chuckled nervously.
“Lois, I’m sorry,” Oliver said, before she could say anything. “I’m in love with someone else. I just … I loved you once … and when I came to see you, I did want to get back together … but now …”
“Now the spark is gone,” Lois finished.
Oliver’s mouth dropped in shock and he wordlessly nodded.
“I know, Ollie,” Lois told him wryly, “I felt it too … the chemistry we once had is gone, isn’t it?”
“It is,” he said, giving her a small smile.
“I guess I had to know for sure,” Lois replied, “I mean … I didn’t want to live my life wondering ‘what if’.”
“It’s good to know for sure,” Oliver offered.
“And now we have some closure,” Lois concluded.
“Yeah,” Oliver said, realizing the truth of the statement, “We do.”
Lois smiled and Oliver smiled back. He too was glad to get this closure … he was one hundred percent positive that he did not care for Lois that way anymore and it was a relief.
Lois tilted her head and stared at him. “Did you just say you’re in love with someone else?”
“I did,” Oliver confirmed.
“Wow,” Lois said, “I didn’t realize you were even in a relationship.”
“It’s complicated,” Oliver replied.
Lois nodded slowly, her eyes darting around the penthouse. She then let out a gasp.
“What?” Oliver asked.
“Clark,” she said suddenly.
“Clark?” he echoed.
She met his gaze. “You’re in love with Clark,” Lois declared.
Oliver just stared at her. How did she figure that one out?
“It makes sense now,” Lois exclaimed. “I mean … all the times he has spent with you. The mystery, expensive gift …” She smirked. “The fact that his jacket is lying on your couch.”
He immediately turned in that direction and found that Clark’s jacket was indeed lying on his couch.
“He could’ve just left it here,” Oliver said, finding words again.
“Are you denying my claims?” Lois said, amused. “Really?”
Oliver sighed. “No.”
She grinned triumphantly. “You’re in love with Clark! Have the two of you been dating?”
“We haven’t been dating,” Oliver told her. “We’re in a friends with benefits situation.”
“Really?” Lois seemed to be getting more delighted by the moment. “Smallville?”
She stopped, her eyes narrowing. “You aren’t taking advantage of my best friend, are you, Queen?”
“It was his idea!” Oliver protested. He really didn’t want Lois to get the wrong idea … she may make fun of Clark but she knew that she was extremely protective of him too.
“I’m in love with him, Lois,” Oliver added, “And I have full intentions on telling him that, on making this a real relationship.”
“Good,” Lois said, pleased. She smiled warmly. “I’m glad it is Clark … lately, he’s been so happy, Ollie and if you did that … then I approve.”
“Thanks Lois,” Oliver said, relieved.
“I can’t believe nobody told me,” Lois said disappointedly. “Smallville initiating a sex only relationship is news … I missed out on weeks of teasing.”
“I’m sure you can make up for it later,” Oliver joked and she grinned.
“You bet I will,” Lois replied.
Oliver chuckled at her expression.
“But,” Lois was quick to say, “Don’t hurt him, Oliver …”
“Trust me,” he assured her, “I wouldn’t do that … besides, I’ve already been threatened.”
“Chloe,” Lois realized aloud. She shook her head. “That explains why she was trying to persuade me not to come here.”
“She was told not to tell anyone,” Oliver said, worried Lois may get upset at her cousin.
“Don’t worry, I know,” Lois replied. “I’m not completely dense, Ollie … between the two of them, Smallville and Chloe have more secrets than the FBI … it sucks sometimes being left out of the loop but I get it.”
Lois really was sharper than she let on … but Oliver had learned at an early stage of their relationship not to underestimate her.
“I have to get going,” Lois told him, “But I’ll see you later, Ollie.”
“Sounds good,” Oliver said, “Take care of yourself.”
“You too,” Lois replied. “And take care of my best friend too.”
“I will do that,” Oliver promised. “Bye Lois.”
“Bye Oliver,” Lois said. He watched silently as she entered the elevator and disappeared.
Everything had gone off better than he could have ever hoped. He was really relieved that Lois had taken the news of Clark and him so well.
The blonde shook his head. It was ironic that everyone was learning of his love for Clark … everyone except the one person that mattered.
That changes today. In fact, it was going to change right now.
Grabbing his keys, Oliver headed out. Clark’s probably still at the farm. No problem … he would go to him.
It was time to go see Clark and tell him that he loved him.
If he was lucky, Clark would love him too and by the end of the day, he’d have a boyfriend.
“I’m so sorry Clark.”
Clark smiled sadly into the phone. “I know, Chloe … I just really thought that he’d be the one.”
“I was convinced he loved you,” Chloe replied.
After speaking with Kara, he decided to call Chloe back, knowing the blonde would be wondering what happened.
Kara had left, to give him some privacy and he promised her that he would be okay. Though he wasn’t sure of it himself, he didn’t want her to worry.
“I was hoping he would,” Clark told Chloe. “I mean … after last night, I was certain I wasn’t alone in my feelings.”
“I can’t believe he did this to you,” Chloe said, anger creeping in her voice. “I was worried when Lois said that she was going to see him but the only real reason I was concerned because I didn’t want to see Lois hurt. I was positive Oliver would turn her down.”
“Guess you were wrong,” Clark told her. “She obviously still means everything to him … she said she wanted him back and he didn’t think twice.”
“It’s just none of this makes sense!” Chloe declared.
“What doesn’t make sense?” Clark asked. “I mean, we never said ‘I love you’. He never said he wanted a relationship. Just because it seemed that we were going in that direction doesn’t mean we actually were.”
“It’s just … he hasn’t been acting like he wanted the sex for a while now Clark,” Chloe said pointedly.
“Perhaps not,” Clark said. “And maybe he even contemplated a relationship … but he saw that Lois was back and probably realized that he still wanted her.”
“So what are you going to do?” Chloe wanted to know.
“Move on,” Clark said simply. “I got my answer … there is no need for me to go humiliate myself at Ollie’s feet, proclaiming my love.”
“This stinks, Clark,” Chloe said. “Will you be okay?”
“If you’re asking me if I’ll be okay right now, no I’m not okay,” Clark said honestly. “I’m in love with a man who doesn’t love me back. But I will be someday. It’s good that I found out the truth.”
“If you need to talk, I’m here,” Chloe said. “Do you want me to come to the farm?”
“No, I just think I want to be alone,” Clark replied. “But I’ll be back tonight so I’ll see you then. Don’t worry about me, Chloe … I will be fine.”
“If you say so,” Chloe said doubtfully.
“I do say so,” Clark said, a small smile gracing his face, even though he knew she couldn’t see him. “I am going to get off the phone now … I need some time to think. Bye Chloe.”
“Bye Clark,” Chloe said.
He hung up, standing to go walk to the edge of the loft, near the opening. Staring out into the sky, he couldn’t believe how a few hours could change everything.
That morning, he had been the happiest man ever and now … now everything he thought he had was gone.
Moving on from Ollie would not be easy … he was sure that they would have to talk sometime. Oliver would want to tell him that the two of them were done, that he was with Lois.
But after that, he hoped that their meeting would be few and far apart. Seeing Oliver would only hurt and he needed the distance to help him move on.
Clark had no idea how long he was standing out there but when he heard a noise, he smiled.
“Kara,” he chided playfully. “I told you that you didn’t need to come back.”
“You know,” a voice said, that was definitely not his cousin. “You’re going to give me a complex if you keep mistaking me for Kara.”
Heart sinking, Clark turned around and faced the one person he really didn’t want to see.
“Oliver.”
Oliver grinned at Clark but when he saw the brunette’s expression, his smile faded. Clark looked upset and upon laying eyes on him, he seemed to grow serious.
“Hey Clark,” Oliver said, taking a few steps toward the younger man. “How are you doing?”
“Not bad,” Clark said, but the tone of his voice was off. It wasn’t the Clark he was used to. “And yourself?”
“I’m good,” Oliver told him.
“How was your day?” Clark asked.
Oliver closed the distance between them and smirked.
“Well,” He said, wrapping his arms around the brunette’s waist. “It wasn’t as good after a certain farm boy left me this morning but it’s better now that I’m here with you.”
A little flirting never hurt anyone, was what Oliver decided.
But Clark was completely unresponsive, even going to the length of stepping out of Oliver’s embrace. What the …?
“Clark,” Oliver said, “Are you okay?”
“I’m fine,” Clark replied. “Why shouldn’t I be?”
“What’s going on with you then? Oliver asked, concerned.
“Oliver, I have been thinking,” Clark said slowly. “And I have to tell you something.”
“Great, because I have to tell you something too,” Oliver replied.
“It’s about the state of our relationship,” Clark went on, as if he hadn’t even said anything.
“That’s what I wanted to talk to you about too,” Oliver confessed.
“Wonderful,” Clark said. A steely gaze met his. “I hope you don’t mind if I go first?”
“Go ahead,” Oliver said.
“Good,” Clark replied.
Oliver looked at him expectantly, a part of him slightly worried but confident. He should’ve taken Clark’s serious behavior to mind though because his next words caught him completely off guard.
“I don’t think we should do this anymore.”
Chapter 21