Winner Takes All
Folc4evernaday
Part 11
***
Three Weeks Later…
The next few weeks had been disturbing. The follow-ups on Roarke’s attack had been all over the news. Roarke’s body had been found in the bay later that evening. The police were convinced both Harrington and Roarke’s murderer was a professional, but nothing had shown up to give them any clues. To make matters worse Superman hadn’t shown up since the fiasco with Shock Wave.
“Clark, do you think Superman’s okay?” Lois asked.
“Uh, what do you mean?” Clark asked, opening the door to the Conference Room. They stepped down
“It’s been three weeks since anyone’s seen or heard from him. Do you think he could have been hurt? Oh, my God, what if the person that was testing him…What if they found out a weakness? He could be hurt or dead or…” She stopped to catch her breath. “Something is wrong, Clark. I can just sense it.”
“Lois, Metropolis doesn’t own Superman. Maybe he went out of town.” Clark suggested, avoiding eye contact with her.
“Or maybe whoever tried to scare him off succeeded?” Lois shot back.
“I wouldn’t call it ‘scared off’, “ Clark began evasively.
“Oh, really?” Lois crossed her arms and cornered him. “Then what would you call it? Because by all appearances it seems to me that Luthor or Trask or Roarke or whomever it was that was so determined to test Superman and scare him off has succeeded.”
“Maybe it's for the best,” Clark said.
“What?” Lois’ eyes narrowed at him, “How can you say that?”
“People were getting thrown off buildings, half of Metropolis was almost destroyed, a bomb was set off in the middle of the city….Is having Superman around really worth it?” Clark asked.
“Yes,” Lois said firmly. “Clark, how many stories have we written about drive-by shootings or…or muggings..rape..murder…armed robbery….How many in the last week has Perry sent us out on stories like that as…as filler for the City Section?” Lois was near tears as she spoke.
“Too many,” Clark replied solemnly.
“Exactly.” Lois poked his chest for emphasis. “When crimes like that are considered filler because they happen too much; there is a problem. God, don’t you see? Clark, Metropolis needs Superman.”
“Why?” Clark asked, “Do you really think he could stop all of the crime in the city?”
Lois shook her head, “No, I told you before. Superman can’t rescue everyone 24/7. He’d get burnt out. But it’s the little things he does. That little bit of help that we didn’t have before. Someone to look up to and bring a few hopes around. That’s what Superman is to Metropolis…”
“I never thought about it like that,” Clark said.
“Yeah, well, now it may be too late. He never came out of that water, Clark. I think we should have Henderson send some divers…”
“Lois, you said yourself he was invulnerable,” Clark argued.
“There’s a 'first time' for everything isn’t there?” Lois asked.
“Guys?” Jimmy poked his head into the Conference Room. “The Chief wants you two down at the Press Conference pronto.”
Lois groaned. “I guess that’s our cue.”
***
Lois stood in the crowd anxiously waiting for the Mayor to begin. The Mayor had called a press conference to address the public’s concern over the recent disasters addressing the city. Lex Luthor stood behind the Mayor along with Inspector Henderson and the Chief of Police. Clark was making his way through the crowd, gauging the crowd’s reaction to the Mayor’s speech while she took notes on the speech itself.
“Thank you all for coming here today. It has been a trying few weeks for us all. We have endured more than what this city is used to. We were blessed with a friend that for all appearances sake, sacrificed everything to save us.” Mayor Berkowitz dabbed at his eyes a moment. “We’ve had divers in the waters for the last forty-eight hours. No sign of Superman has been found. It is with great displeasure that I declare Superman to be…”
A whooshing sound interrupted the Mayor’s speech. “Look, up in the sky!”
“Oh, my God, it's Superman!”
“I thought he was dead!”
“I told you he wasn’t going anywhere!”
Superman landed next to the Mayor who was in a state of shock. “Su-Superman! How is this possible? You are a sight for sore eyes.”
“I apologize for just dropping in on you like this, but I overheard you talking and wanted to set the record straight, Mayor Berkowitz,” Superman said.
“Yes, of course.” The Mayor nodded enthusiastically.
Lois closed her eyes and said a silent prayer, thanking the Gods that Superman was all right.
“As you, all know I’ve been out of commission for the last few days. It appeared to me that my presence in Metropolis was causing more havoc than good; so I had decided to stay away.” There was a murmur of protest against Superman’s words. “I know now that was the wrong approach. I want you all to know I am here to help in whatever manner that may be. I know I haven’t been here long, but I think of this city as my home and I want to make it clear that I am here to help. Metropolis is my home and I am here to stay.”
Lois noticed as Superman stepped away from the podium he gave Lex a menacing look before turning back towards the crowd. She wasn’t sure what to think of the gaze the two men had just exchanged, but it was clear Lex had been rattled by Superman’s glare. She looked around the crowd and decided it was time to find Clark.
***
After writing up the story on Superman’s speech and following up on the articles regarding Harrington and Roarke’s autopsy reports Lois and Clark finally made it to a late dinner. Clark noticed Lois seemed much more upbeat than she had the last few weeks. They still hadn’t discussed the whole ‘I love you’ thing and he wasn’t about to bring it up again. He didn’t want to scare her again.
“So, how are you feeling?” Clark asked as he walked her back to her apartment.
“Better. I feel like all is right in the world…well if you don’t count the whole Lex and Lucy dating thing.” She crinkled her nose. They walked up the steps to her apartment.
“I still don’t understand that,” Clark said.
“I don’t think anyone but my parents actually approve of her relationship with Lex,” Lois said as she began to unlock her door. “My parents have always been into the whole status thing. Which never made much sense to me because my dad was always off with his floozies making a mockery of my mother…” Clark gave her a sympathetic smile, “Anyway, my parents seem to think because Lex looks like a decent guy on the outside then he must be PERFECT for Lucy. Never mind the fact that neither of them have actually met the man or had a conversation with him.”
Lois opened the door and they stepped inside. She looked around the apartment. “Where is Lucy at? I haven’t seen her in almost a week.”
“Well, we have been pretty busy,” Clark said.
“I know. I just miss her.” Lois sighed. A knock at the door caught her attention, “What in the world?” Lois opened the door and came face to face with a very intoxicated Jimmy being supported by a very ticked off Lucy.
“I found him at the Metropolis Pub like this,” Lucy said, dragging Jimmy into the apartment.
“Oh, my God…” Lois groaned, stepping back for Lucy to bring Jimmy inside. Clark moved to help Lucy escort Jimmy to the couch.
“Can he stay here tonight? I don’t want him going home alone like this. I’ve heard horror stories.” Lucy explained.
“Yeah, sure.” Lois shrugged. “Why not?”
“What happened?” Clark asked.
“Allison dumped him and he decided to celebrate by getting plastered,” Lucy explained grimly. “Don’t ask me why. I haven’t been able to decipher that out of his drunk moaning yet.”
“Well, this oughta be an interesting night,” Clark said.
“You’re staying?” Lois asked, surprised but equally pleased.
“Sure. Why wouldn’t I?” Clark asked.
Lois smiled and gave him a peck on the cheek. “Thank you.” She didn’t notice Lucy who was watching them with a huge grin on her face.
***
Sitting on the couch, Clark held Lois against him, listening to the sounds in the bathroom. Jimmy sounded like he was having another binge in the bathroom. He would never understand what it felt to be completely plastered like that. Alcohol didn’t affect him and he hoped he never had to experience what his young friend was going through right now. He lifted himself up out of Lois’ arms and headed towards the bathroom to help Jimmy.
“That’s the fifth time tonight.” She murmured. He smiled apologetically towards her.
“I know I’m sorry.” He gave her a peck and headed towards the bathroom.
“When I pictured you spending the night with me; babysitting Jimmy wasn’t exactly what came to mind.” He heard her whisper. He sighed and gave her another apologetic smile. It had been three weeks since she had spent the night at his apartment. Three weeks since they’d made love and his body was aching to be with her.
The past few weeks had been exhausting. He and Lois had hardly been able to spend any time with one another the past few weeks. Between the follow ups on Roarke and Harrington and Lois’ insistence in investigating LexCorp more thoroughly they had been lucky to leave the Planet before midnight. Usually, they both had been too exhausted for anything but a good night sleep.
The stress from trying to tune out the cries for help over the past three weeks had begun to take a toll on him. He still couldn’t believe he had let Luthor get to him like that. People had been injured because he hadn’t shown up to rescue them. It could have been worse. He tried not to let his mind dwell on that.
“Come on, Jimmy, sit up.” He lifted his young friend up from the floor. Jimmy made a muffled gagging sound and Clark directed him towards the open toilet bowl. “You won’t be doing this again anytime soon.”
After making sure Jimmy had relieved himself as much as he was able to, Clark helped him to the other sofa. Jimmy passed out immediately. Clark sighed in relief. He looked down at himself and grimaced. “Shower.” He muttered, heading for the bathroom once more.
***
Lois lay on the couch, listening to the heaving sounds coming from the bathroom. “How many times is he gonna do that?” She muttered. She was exhausted. After the all-nighters she and Clark had pulled both working and not; she was ready for a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, Jimmy wasn’t allowing that to happen. She grabbed her pillow and headed to the bedroom. She had tried to stay up, hoping to spend some time with Clark, but that wasn’t happening.
The heaving stopped and she sunk her head deep into the pillow and mattress. “Finally. Maybe now I can get some sleep.” She rolled over, wrapping her arms around her pillow, trying to will sleep to come.
It wasn’t coming.
Where was Clark? He should be done with Jimmy by now. She heard the bathroom door open a few times and then heard the shower turn on. Clark must be taking a shower. The very thought of Clark in the shower sent chills down her body.
***
Clark stood in the shower letting the water beat on his back as he tried to release the tension that had been building up over the last few weeks. His mind filled with the memories from the past few weeks. It had been such a hard first few months at the Planet. Creating Superman and saying goodbye to his alter-ego. It hurt.
<<“The tests stop…now,” Clark warned.
“That would be nice, but what if they don’t?” Luthor asked menacingly.
“If I were you…” Clark began.
“Me?” Luthor scoffed. “I admit nothing, however, let's assume that these tests continue. You can’t be everywhere at once Superman. As long as you stay in Metropolis, innocent people will die.” The gauntlet had been thrown. Clark narrowed his eyes, understanding Luthor’s veiled threat. “Are you willing to accept that responsibility? If I were you I d think about it.”>>
No. He shook his head. It was the right thing to do…bringing Superman back.
<<“Exactly.” Lois poked his chest for emphasis. “When crimes like that are considered filler because they happen too much; there is a problem. God, don’t you see? Clark, Metropolis needs Superman.”
“Why?” Clark asked, “Do you really think he could stop all of the crime in the city?”
Lois shook her head, “No, I told you before. Superman can’t rescue everyone 24/7. He’d get burnt out. But it’s the little things he does. That little bit of help that we didn’t have before. Someone to look up to and bring a few hopes around. That’s what Superman is to Metropolis…”
“I never thought about it like that,” Clark said.>>
She had saved him from himself without even realizing it.
“OH!” his super-hearing picked up a light moan from the bedroom.
He rested his head against the shower tile. “She’s killing me,” he muttered. He could feel his body respond to her soft moans. He needed relief. He needed relief bad.
***
She was so frustrated. It had been a long three weeks and she really missed Clark. All she could do was imagine his body pressed against hers. She could hear the sound of the water from the shower beating against the tile walls. It had been three weeks…
She bolted out of bed, and grabbed her bathrobe, wrapping it tightly around her. She opened the bathroom door and smiled. Clark had cleaned up after Jimmy’s latest binge. That was for sure. She locked the door behind her and slipped out of her bathrobe, letting it pool to the floor around her feet. She kicked it aside and tip toed over toward the shower. She pushed back the curtain and smiled at the sight she was met with. Clark had his back turned to her and he had his eyes closed.
Without a word she slipped inside the shower and wrapped her arms around him from behind; pressing her small frame against his back. “Need a hand?” She asked, running a hand down his chest.
Clark turned his head to look at her and smiled, “Always.”
He turned around in her arms. She watched with intrigue as several water droplets fell down his face and began a path down his body that she hoped to explore soon. There was something different about the way he looked at her. Glasses. He wasn’t wearing his glasses. It was strange. She hadn’t seen him without his glasses but a few times, but without them, he seemed so familiar. She just couldn’t put her finger on it.
All coherent thought was lost on her when his mouth came crashing down on hers. She felt him press his body against hers; slowly pushing her back against the tile wall. “Oh, God…” She moaned as her back hit the cold surface.
“Shhh…” he whispered. “You’re gonna wake Jimmy up.”
Lois laughed, “It’ll serve him right for disturbing my quiet evening at home…Oh, God...” Clark dipped his head down to trace the path between her shoulders and neck. He nuzzled the more sensitive spot against her neck, “….right there…” she murmured.
“Who said anything about quiet?” He murmured against her skin.
“Hopefully, he’ll be out for the night. I still don’t know how that much can come out of such a little body...” Lois murmured as he dipped his head lower to trace the curve of her breast line with his tongue. “Oh, God, Clark…” She could feel the tightness begin to build in her abdomen as he continued his sweet torture.
Clark groaned, “I don’t want to know. He’s gonna wake up with a killer headache.” She felt him slip his hands in between her thighs and she let out an inaudible moan. He lifted her up into his arms and repositioned her to where she was pressed up against his abdomen, with her legs wrapped tightly around him.
“Oh, God…” she moaned arching her back towards him. He lowered his mouth to meet hers and her body involuntarily shuddered against him “Cl…Clar…” she moaned in pleasure against his mouth. “Cl...” she pleaded but he silenced her once more with his own lips. “..Please…” she pleaded.
“You are so impatient…”He murmured.
“Patience isn’t something I was born with.” She murmured breathlessly. She arched her back towards him, tightening her arms around him. “Clark, please…now…” she pleaded.
“Clark…”
“You are so bossy…” he whispered.
She whimpered against him, “Yes, I’m bossy, impatient and whatever else you want to call me…just please…” She began to grind her hips against him.
***
A shuddered gasp escaped his lips, “Whoa…”
Lois nodded, a gleam in her eyes. She let out a shaky breath as well. She rested her forehead against his, wrapping her arms around him more securely. She shuddered when she felt the cold water beating against his back. “Oh, God, that’s cold…”
“Hmmm?” Clark lazily looked back at the water and stepped away from her to shut the water off. He then turned back to her and scooped her in his arms, wrapping a towel around himself and handing her her bathrobe. He reached for his glasses and change of clothes then carried them back into her bedroom.
Lois let out a shuddered breath as they lay down on the cool sheets of her bed. Clark wrapped his arms securely around her, pulling her against him. She smiled when she felt his body pressed up against her backside. “These long hours are killing us.” She murmured.
“I know.” He whispered, kissing her cheek. “It took all my willpower these past few weeks to refrain from whisking you off to the darkroom.”
“Why didn’t you?” She teased.
“I didn’t know how you’d react …I kinda got burned after the last time I gave a public display of affection in the middle of the newsroom.”
Lois sighed as she thought about what he’d said. The last time he’d shown any public display of affection towards her in the newsroom was the time he’d kissed her in an attempt to show her he wasn’t predictable. She smiled lazily at the memory. She had tried so hard not to let him see how his kiss had affected her. “Well, things are different now…I mean, we are different.”
“True.” He nodded, “but I wasn’t quite sure how Perry would react either.”
“He probably already knows…” She sighed, not willing to divulge her conversation with Perry after their first date when she’d demanded a new partner. She was so glad Perry didn’t listen to her. “You haven’t heard his famous coined phrase?” Clark shook his head no. Lois did her best voice impression of Perry complete with a fake southern accent, “I didn’t become Editor In Chief of this great metropolitan newspaper because I can yodel.” She gave into a fit of giggles.
“I’m surprised he hasn’t said anything.” Clark mused.
“He’s probably waiting for one of us to say something.” Lois yawned.
He kissed her forehead. He was quiet a moment then he spoke up. He seemed really nervous about whatever he was about to say. “Lois, there’s something we should probably talk about…”
“What?” She asked, turning to face him.
“Well…We kinda rushed into things…relationship-wise.” Clark seemed REALLY nervous.
“I’m not complaining.” Lois teased, leaning up to kiss him.
“No, neither am I. It’s just there are things we haven’t talked about that we should probably talk about….”
She knew this conversation was coming. The 'how many people have you slept with' conversation? Well, might as well just bite the bullet. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to know how many people Clark had been with. He obviously had some experience in order for him to bring her to completion every time they were together. “It was only one.” Lois interrupted.
“What?” Clark asked.
“You were about to ask how many people I’ve been with. One. It was terrible. And I regretted it afterward for more reasons than one as you already know.” Lois explained.
“That’s not what I was talking about.” He gave her an apologetic smile.
“Oh. Well, I told you; so now you tell me.” Lois said briskly.
“What?”
“I know it’s probably been more than me and I’m perfectly okay with that...”
“Lois…”
“I mean, you’re an attractive man. Women are always throwing themselves at you…”
“Lois…”
“I can’t really blame you. I mean, I guess you didn’t get that good from reading books…”
“You’re the only one.”
“I mean, it’s only natural that you’d be curious about other women. I mean, neither of us was born the day we…you know...”
She felt two male lips pressing against her mouth. She moaned in pleasure against his lips. He slowly pulled away from her, “You babble too much.”
“Sorry.” She smiled up at him.
“Now as I was saying ... You’re the only one I’ve been with, but that’s not what I was talking about.”
“You what?” Lois squeaked out.
“What I was talking about was protection. We’ve been REALLY active and neither of us seemed to think long enough to discuss precautions ...”
“Oh…Oh!” Lois shook her head, “No, I’m on the pill….Really? I never would have guessed…”
Clark blushed. “Books and instinct. That’s it.” He sighed.
“If you waited so long then why did you let things get as out of control as they did that night?” Lois asked.
Clark sighed, “I don’t know. I can’t really control myself when I’m with you. You seem to bring out a part of me that I didn’t know existed.”
“You don’t regret it?” Lois asked hesitantly.
“Never.” He kissed her cheek. “I could never regret anything I did with you, Lois. Being with you makes me feel more alive.”
“Oh, Clark…” Lois felt the tears welling up in her eyes. “That is the sweetest thing anyone has ever said to me.” She leaned up to kiss him, wrapping her arms around his neck as she deepened the kiss.
***
The next morning Clark awoke, holding Lois securely to him. He heard some noise out in the living room and looked regretfully down at his sleeping partner. “Lois?” he asked gently, recalling her resentment at being left in bed alone.
“Hmm?” She asked sleepily; not quite coherent.
“I think Jimmy’s awake. I’m gonna get some breakfast.”
“Mmmm hmmm.” She wasn’t showing any signs of waking up any time soon. He sighed. Well, he’d tried. He got out of bed and quickly changed into the change of clothes he had retrieved from his apartment last night. He then moved into the living room where he spotted Jimmy trying to sit up on the couch.
“OW. My head…” Jimmy muttered.
Clark went into the kitchen and began to brew a pot of coffee. Jimmy was still making inaudible noises of pain when he handed the young man a cup of coffee. “Here.”
Jimmy winced as he sat up. “Thanks, CK…Oh, God…” He took a sip of the coffee gratefully, “What happened?”
“According to Lucy, she found you at the Metropolis Pub completely plastered and brought you back here.” Clark said, “You want to tell me what happened?”
“I take too many risks,” Jimmy said solemnly. “I am a danger to myself and others and it’s not safe for me to be in a relationship.” Jimmy held up air quotes as he spoke. “At least that’s what Allison told me before she dumped me for the new head of research, Randy.”
Clark patted the young man on the shoulder, “I’m sorry, Jimmy.”
Jimmy began to survey his surroundings then looked at Clark curiously, “So, CK, not that I don’t mind you being here or anything, but what are you doing here? I mean, this is Lois’ apartment…”
“He stayed the night,” Lucy explained, emerging from her bedroom. “Somebody had to help you to the bathroom to puke your guts out all night. I know I sure as hell wasn’t going to do it and neither was Lois.” Lucy then narrowed her eyes at Jimmy, “And haven’t I told you before to keep your nose out of other people’s personal life?” Clark took advantage of Jimmy’s distraction and moved toward the kitchen to begin preparing breakfast.
“What did I do?” Jimmy asked defensively.
“What did I do?” Lucy mocked, “How about a ‘thank you, Lucy, Clark, Lois, for saving my ass last night and keeping me from choking on my own vomit because I was too plastered to sit up?’”
“Could you lower your voice? I’m still getting echoes…” Jimmy winced, rubbing his head. “And how is my asking CK what he’s doing here so early nosing into anyone’s personal life?” He retorted bitterly.
Lucy rolled her eyes, “I mean this in the nicest way, Jimmy, but you are as dense as a rock sometimes.”
“Okay, enough arguing,” Clark said, handing them each a plate. He handed Jimmy a plate of dry toast, aspirin and a glass of water; then handed Lucy a plate of scrambled eggs, crepes, and bacon.
“Gee thanks…” Jimmy muttered.
“You brought this on yourself, Jimmy.” Clark reminded him.
Jimmy nodded resignedly and took a couple aspirin and swallowed them. He then looked skeptically at the toast. “I don’t usually eat breakfast.”
“Mmmm, this is to die for…” Lucy moaned, taking a bite. “Did you make this?”
“Uh, yeah,” Clark said.
“Marry my sister, please,” Lucy said. Jimmy spewed his water out everywhere at that statement. “Jimmy, are you okay?”
Jimmy coughed as he tried to talk, “Yeah, I just….That was…You do realize…You’re talking about Mad Dog Lane…”
“I heard that,” Lois said from behind them, walking out of her room, fully dressed and ready to go.
“I meant it as a compliment…” Jimmy smiled at Lois.
“Breakfast?” Clark offered her a plate.
“You have got to try this, Lois. It is to die for.” Lucy said, placing a fork full of food in Lois’ mouth. Clark watched in pure agony as Lois took a bite, savoring the taste on her taste buds just as she had done the night of their official date.
“This is incredible.” Lois said, turning to Clark, “Where did you learn to make this?”
“Uh, some of it’s just some of my mother’s recipes and the rest is just stuff I picked up from traveling,” Clark explained nonchalantly.
“Yeah, so Lucy’s making wedding plans for you,” Jimmy added with an evil grin.
Lois glared at Lucy, “Can’t you keep your mouth shut? My private life is to be left private.”
“I didn’t say anything…but you just did.” Lucy replied with a smile.
“Wait a minute, you two are…” Jimmy’s eyes doubled in size. “Smooth…”
“Jimmy, I swear to God, if I hear this in the Planet’s gossip grapevine I will…” Lois was cut off by Clark clamping his hand over her mouth before she could threaten him any further.
“Jimmy, if you could just keep it to yourself?” Clark asked.
“Yeah, no problem.” Jimmy said, “but I think the Chief already suspects something’s up.”
Lois shared a look with Clark. She knew Perry more than suspected. She’d confirmed their relationship status when she’d gone barreling in his office the morning after their first date.
“All right, well, I have to go. I have a ten a.m. appointment to take the Bar Exam..” Lucy gave Jimmy a glare, “and thanks to someone I didn’t get to sleep until two a.m.”
“Hey, I was drunk,” Jimmy argued.
Neither Lois nor Clark said anything. Had she heard? Lois wondered. She looked at the floor, avoiding eye contact for a moment. She took a bite of her breakfast then allowed what Lucy had said to sink in. “Wait a minute! Bar Exam? You haven’t even graduated yet.”
“I know. I don’t graduate until next week, but Lex pulled some string and got me a spot.” Lucy explained.
“How convenient,” Lois muttered dryly.
“Don’t start,” Lucy warned. “I have to go.”
“Oh, man, I’ve got to call Perry…” Jimmy moaned. “There’s no way I’m going to be able to go into work today.”
“Already done last night,” Lois said. “We told him you’d been pulling some long shifts and needed this morning off. You’ve got until noon to become coherent.”
Clark handed Jimmy a cup of coffee, “Drink up.”
***
That afternoon, Lois and Clark sat in the Conference Room going over everything they had on Roarke and Harrington. “So, both Roarke and Harrington were drugged.” Clark read off the autopsy reports in front of him.
“Yeah, and they were also shot…but the autopsy says they were poisoned before either of them were shot…begging the question ‘Why bother shooting them?’” Lois drummed her fingers impatiently against the wood grain of the conference table.
“Maybe it has something to do with that ‘silent partner’ Nigel St. John was talking about,” Clark suggested.
“Maybe we have more than one killer.”
“Anything’s possible,” Clark said.
***
“A lovely touch drugging and shooting Roarke and Harrington,” Lex said, puffing his cigar.
“Yes, I figured it would give the police a bit more to question..” Nigel said with a smile. “Our police department is so easily confused. It’s a shame really.”
“Yes, but do you know what else is a shame?” Lex asked angrily.
“What is that, sir?”
“This.” Lex lay the Morning Edition of the Daily Planet on his desk. The front page read, “Superman to Receive Key to the City.”
“Yes, it's tragic how Metropolis seems to be opening itself up to Superman…an alien.” Nigel mused.
“No, what’s even more tragic is I have to give him the key,” Lex said in disgust.
***
“Are you sure you don’t want to go with me to the ceremony?” Clark asked.
“Right now if I’m within two hundred feet of Lex Luthor I might strangle the man. It's safer this way. I’ll work on these background checks and see what I can find out about Roarke and Harrington’s silent partner. I’m sure you can handle a simple ceremony by yourself.” Lois teased.
Clark gave her a peck on the cheek. “See you later.”
***
Lois let out an exhausted sigh. Nothing. Absolutely nothing. The only thing either of these two men had in common was Shockwave and Nigel St. John. She knew Nigel had a history with espionage, but she wasn’t sure he was really what you would call a professional killer. “What am I missing here?” She muttered.
The phone in the conference room rang and she moved to answer it. “Lois Lane, Conference Room.”
“Guess who has a job at the District Attorney’s Office starting a week after graduation?” Lucy squealed into the phone.
“Lucy, that’s great. I’m really proud of you.” Lois began hesitantly. “I thought it took them weeks to get you your results from the Bar Exam.”
“It’s all done on computers now. You get a preliminary result then the actual results are mailed to you. I should get my test score by next week, though. Technology is a wonderful thing.”
“I’m really happy for you, Lucy. You’ve worked really hard for this.”
“I know. I feel like I’ve been in school forever.” Lucy sighed. “We have to celebrate…Girls night? Tonight?”
Lois pulled out her organizer to double check her schedule. “Sure. I’m free.”
“Don’t worry. We’ll get back in time for you to have some ALONE TIME with your boyfriend...” Lucy teased.
“Lucy…” Lois warned.
“Hey, it’s okay. You’re young and in love. If you need me to go stay at a friend’s for the night just let me know.” Lucy teased. Lois felt her cheeks redden at her sister’s teasing. “It's okay, Lois. I’m just glad you’re finally living a little bit. All work and no play make a very dull sister. I’ll see you tonight. Someone’s calling. Bye.”
Lois shook her head as she hung up the phone. “My crazy little sister.” She smiled. She was looking forward to a night out with her sister. She hadn’t had a night out like that for a while and ever since Lucy had begun her courtship with Lex Luthor she saw her less and less.
***
That evening, Clark headed to Smallville for a much-needed visit to his folks. He hadn’t seen them since his encounter with Trask. Between the rescues, his budding relationship with Lois and the stress with Luthor’s threat he just hadn’t had the time. He knew he was going to miss Lois tonight, but he also knew she had missed spending time with Lucy.
He landed quietly behind the barn, spinning from his Superman suit to a pair of jeans and a flannel shirt. He then headed towards the old farmhouse he had come to know as home for so long. “Clark!” Martha moved to embrace him when she saw him enter.
He smiled warmly and hugged her tightly, “Hi, Mom.”
“How’ve you been, son?” Jonathan asked, patting him on the back.
“Uh, busy,” Clark said, taking a seat at the dining table.
“We saw the press conference. What happened?” Martha asked confused.
“Uh, I let my insecurities get the better of me. Luthor had implied that people would continue to be put in danger as long as Superman remained in Metropolis.” Clark said. “I thought laying low would help, but it didn’t. Ignoring all those cries for help…” He shook his head.
“You can’t give into threats, Clark,” Martha said.
Clark gave his mother a weak smile, “I know.”
“Have you been able to find anything to pin on this Lex Luthor?” Jonathan asked.
“Not yet, Dad. He conveniently has all the evidence lying on someone else’s doorstep. He’s always one step ahead of the law.” Clark sighed, letting out his frustrations.
“You and Lois haven’t gotten any leads?” Martha asked, concerned.
“No.” Clark sighed, “I just hope we’re able to find something. We just found out her kid sister is dating Luthor…”
“What?” Jonathan asked, obviously upset.
Clark’s expression was grim, “That’s why Lois is so gun hoe about exposing Luthor as a criminal. She doesn’t want him anywhere near her sister. I don’t blame her. I mean, the guy is more than twice her age…”
“So, how are things between you and Lois?” Martha asked mischievously.
Clark smiled, “We’re good.”
“Just good?” Martha winked.
“Well, there is one thing I wanted to talk to you about…” Clark began hesitantly.
“What is it?” Jonathan asked.
“I’m thinking about telling Lois about myself…everything about myself.”
“Are you sure?” Jonathan asked. “This isn’t something to just rush into.”
“I trust her, Dad. She’s not going to do anything with the information. I need to tell her.” Clark finished quietly.
“Boy, things must be getting serious.” Jonathan mused.
“Yeah, they are. I love her.” Clark smiled shyly at them.
Martha smiled at him, patting his hand across the table. Jonathan was quiet a moment, “It’s your secret, son, but I think it would be better for us to meet her first before you tell her.”
“The Corn Festival is in a few months. Bring her down here then.” Martha said.
“I’ll talk to Lois and find out when she’d be open to the idea,” Clark said.
“Okay, well, how about some pie?” Jonathan asked, turning towards the stove that had a fresh apple pie on top of it.
“After dinner. I already told you.” Martha scolded.
***
“Isn’t this place cool?” Lucy asked. “It’s really classy.”
“I wouldn’t be so sure about that. We are talking about the Metro Club. The Metros? Gang?” Lois prompted, looking around the room skeptically. “Nice to see how our tax dollars are being wasted, though.” She pointed towards the Mayor who was sitting by the stage, handing one of the singers some money.
“Isn’t he married?” Lucy asked in between bits of laughter.
“Not for long,” Lois said, pointing at a large woman who was headed towards the mayor and the dancer.
They shared a laugh as they watched the mayor’s wife beat him with her purse repeatedly. “A sample of our feature fragrance?” One of the waitresses asked, spraying spritz of perfume in their direction.
“Oh, no thank you…” Lois waved her hand in front of her nose, trying to get rid of the smell.
“Oh, God!” Lucy scrunched up her nose. “What died?”
“This is a top of the line fragrance from ‘Miranda’s Fragrances’ and is very expensive.” The waitress sniffed.
“Yeah, well it still smells like road kill if you ask me.” Lucy sniffed.
“Come on, Lucy, let’s get something to drink,” Lois said, heading toward the bar.
***
After dinner with his folks, Clark headed back to Metropolis. After doing a quick patrol over Metropolis, he headed home where he found a note taped to his door. “Clark, I want you to meet Lois and me at the Metro Club for drinks. I think she’ll have a better time with you there. Thanks a lot! Lucy.”
Clark smiled at the note. Leave it to Lucy to be thinking about what Lois wanted rather than herself when celebrating. He grabbed a black dress shirt and slacks from his closet then headed for the bathroom for a quick shower.
***
“So, what is the deal with you and Clark?” Lucy asked.
“Clark?” Lois smiled. “He’s gorgeous, isn’t he?” Lucy nodded. “Got a body to die for…” She shuddered involuntarily, “…and boy can he kiss…”
“Ah, someone’s been bit by the love bug.” Lucy teased.
“We’re not using that word.” Lois said cautiously.
“Why not?” Lucy asked. “He loves you. He’s so much as told you. I know you don’t think of him as a brother…”
“Definitely not.” Lois blushed.
“Okay, so what’s the problem? You’re not still holding onto that crap that Claude put you through are you?” Lucy asked in concern. “Clark is a really great guy. All you have to do is say the word and he’d probably whisk you off to Vegas no questions asked.”
“Hey, quit trying to plan a wedding before the engagement.” Lois scolded. “I do love him.”
“Ha! I knew it.” Lucy gloated.
“But I’m also not wanting to get my heart broken again.” Lois added.
“The guy’s in love with you and agreeing not to use the L-word until you’re ready. If anyone’s heart is breaking it’s his.” Lucy said, taking a sip of her margarita. “This is really good. You should try it.”
“One of us has to remain sober tonight, Lucy.”
“Come on, just a sip.” Lucy pleaded. Lois rolled her eyes and took a sip. “Mmmm. It is good.”
“See? Told you.” Lucy grinned. “Anyway, back to Clark.”
“Why are you so insistent on talking about Clark?” Lois asked.
“Because you’re dating a hot guy that’s in love with you…that a lot of women are undressing with their eyes…Don’t look at me! I don’t touch anyone or anything you may be even remotely interested. It goes against the code…”
“Code?” Lois laughed.
“Yes, the sister/ best friend code. Don’t date your friends’ or your sisters’ crushes or exes. It’s totally uncouth. Anyway, I think Clark is good for you. You’re more relaxed...Although that comes from good sex or so I’m told…. Anyway, you’ve got a guy that is way off the radar on the hotness scale who also happens to be in love with you…and he just happens to be your work partner. What is the problem?”
“That’s it. That’s the problem right there.” Lois said, “We’re partners. We work together. Actually, we work too well together…and he’s gorgeous and …every time I see him all I can think about is dragging him into the nearest closet and having my way with him…” Lois flushed. Where had that come from?
“And?” Lucy prompted.
“And I’m completely in love with him.” Lois finished meekly.
“I know you are.” Lucy finished smugly. She looked up behind Lois and smiled, “Hi, Clark.”
***
“Just imagine the possibilities, Mr. Luthor. A criminal organization as powerful as the Metros combined with your power and we’ll be unstoppable. We can finally get rid of this reputation as street thugs and be respected as proper business owners.” Toni related emphatically.
“Ms. Taylor, I appreciate your enthusiasm, but you are preaching to the wrong choir. I don’t do business with hoodlums.” Lex remarked dryly.
“Hoodlums??” Toni asked outraged.
“Your father ran a good show in his time, but it's time to let the big fish take over.” Lex smiled at her.
“You will regret this.”
“I doubt that.” Lex pulled out a cigar and lit it. Toni turned on her heel in disgust.
***
“Clark, what are you doing here?” Lois asked, embarrassed.
A soft song began to play and Lucy jumped up. “I’ve got to head to the ladies room real quick. I’ve got to check on Natalie and see where she is. I’ll be right back.”
I don't wanna rush this thing
I don't wanna jump the gun
I really wanna say those three little words
But I'm gonna bite my tongue
Yeah, I'm just gonna lay on back
Leave it on cruise control
I'm gonna hold it all inside
Till the right time comes down the road
Clark smiled at Lois, “Do you want to dance?” He asked.
“Sure.” She took his hand gratefully and allowed him to walk her to the dance floor.
I got a feelin'
My head's a reelin'
My heart is screamin'
I'm about to bust loose
Bottled up emotion
It's more than a notion
It starts with an "I"
And ends with a "U"
I got a feelin'
Are you feelin' it too
Lois sighed as she rested her head against his chest. There was something so comforting about being in Clark’s arms. She felt so safe and loved. Why was she so afraid of telling Clark the scary three words?
“I get the feeling Lucy ditched us,” Clark whispered in her ear.
“Probably.” Lois sighed. “Not that I’m complaining or anything, but what are you doing here?”
“Lucy left a note on my door telling me to meet you two here to celebrate her passing the bar exam,” Clark explained.
“Hmm…” Lois nodded. She fell forward into his arms, allowing him to catch her at the last minute.
I guess I've all but said it now
So much for hopin' you'd go first
Don't leave me hangin' out here on a line
Baby, it's your turn
Say you couldn't sleep last night
Swore that you could feel me breathe
Had you wantin' me there by your side
Yeah, baby I know what you mean
“You okay?” He asked.
“Fine. Why?” Lois asked. She began running her hands up and down his chest seductively.
“How much have you had to drink tonight?”
“What? No, I only had a sip of Lucy’s margarita. Other than that I’m completely sober.”
“Are you sure?” Clark asked.
“It’s so cute that you worry about me. I worry about you too. Because I love you. I really do. I don’t know why I…” She was cut off from her rambling by Clark’s lips crashing down on hers.
I got a feelin'
My heads a reelin'
My heart is screemin'
I'm about to bust loose
Bottled up emotion
It's more than a notion
It starts with an "I"
And ends with a "U"
I get a feelin'
You're feelin' it too
“You have no idea how happy I am to hear you say that.” He whispered.
Bottle up emotion
It's more than a notion
It starts with an "I"
And ends with a "U"
I got a feelin'
You're feelin' it too
You're feelin' it too
Yeah, you're feelin' it too
Feelin' it too
Oh, Yeah
Lois smiled up at him. “If I knew I was going to get that kinda reaction I’d have said it the day we met.” She leaned up to kiss him. “Clark, can we please get out of here? There are things I want to do to you that I really can’t do here…” She whispered in his ear.
“What about Lucy?” He asked.
“Okay…” She shuddered against him. “We’ll find Lucy and then we’ll go back to your place.”
***
“What happened?” A male voice asked.
“I dunno. I just kinda found her out here like this.” Another voice said.
“Are you sure this is how that drug was supposed to work?” the first man asked.
“Look, take it up with the boss. Just help me load her up into the truck.”
***
“Where’s Lucy?” Clark asked.
“I dunno…” Lois said, turning in his arms to face him once again. “Can’t we just go? I really…really need…I really need you, Clark.”
“Lois, your sister’s been drinking…” Clark pointed out. “Are you sure you’re okay?”
“Yeah. I’m fine. I’m perfectly fine…levelheaded and…”She leaned up to kiss him once more, pressing her body up against him once more.
“Lois… Get a grip…” He gently pushed her away from him.
“Believe me, I’d love too, baby..” She teased, allowing her hand to slip to the waistband of his dress pants.
“Lo-is!” He hissed.
“What?”
He looked at her more closely. Something was definitely wrong. “Where did Lucy say she was headed?”
“To call Natalie.” Lois said matter-of-factly.
Clark scanned the room with his enhanced vision, and then cursed under his breath when he still saw no sign of Lucy. “Lois, I think something’s happened to your sister.”
“What?” Lois asked, confused. “No…” She tugged at his tie, trying to loosen his collar.
“Lois, would you cut it out? There is something seriously wrong here.” Clark scolded.
“But, Clark, I just…I need…” There was definitely something wrong here. She couldn’t string a single sentence together.
“Lois, I’m taking you to the hospital.” He said, scooping her into his arms.
“Oh, good…We haven’t tried a hospital room yet. I really enjoy it when we’re standing up. It’s much more erotic than when we’re lying down…”
“Lois….” He warned as he pulled out his cell to call the police. As he spoke with the operator, he helped Lois into the cab that had just pulled up. “Metropolis General Hospital.” He ordered. Then he turned his attention to the person on the other end of the phone line. “Inspector Henderson? Yes, this is Clark Kent. There is something very strange going on at the Metro Club. You need to send a couple officers down here pronto….yes…Okay. Also, I need you to keep an eye out for Lois’ sister. Yes, Lucy…She’s missing…I appreciate it…No, I’m headed to the hospital…I think Lois was just drugged.”
***
TBC...
