Originally Posted by cuidadora
Originally Posted by Deadly Chakram
It's amazing, isn't it, how something so mundane can mean so much to one person? For Clark, a simple shopping trip is a shining beacon of freedom, independence, trust, and learning to depend on others in a cooperative, rather than controlling, manner. For the first time, he's being treating as an adult and as an equal and it means everything to him.

Absolutely amazing. Especially since most people often find shopping a chore. I loved Clark's reactions in this chapter. And Lois grasping that this was a new experience for him. Whether or not she knows how much it meant to him, well, maybe we'll see that in later chapters.

His awe and astonishment at his first glance at Jonathan's General Store, turning into humility as he asked more than once for help in choosing items was very realistic and shows how quickly he can learn. I loved that he chose slippers and bathrobes for everyone, and suggested they get outfitted for more than one kind of weather. Perhaps this is a glimpse into a future generous, thoughtful Clark? Certainly it is a haunting reminder of what might have been, had Jonathan and Martha found him. And Lois's initially cynical reaction was, well definitely Lois!

And perhaps the best part was the empathy he felt for Martha through one of her modern sculptures. Definitely looking forward to where you take this, and am delighted that there's more Smallville. I do wonder if that farmhouse is a bit familiar... I can wait to find out if you decide to enlighten us.

The reversal of Bruce's joke falling flat and Clark's reaction was priceless. rotflol

When I started reading this, I'm not sure I would have believed there could be so much light and humor in Clark's life this quickly. Well done! clap

Thanks, cuidadora!

So glad you liked Lois and Clark's (very opposite) first reactions to shopping. Lois - to her credit - is at least quick on the uptake, and really, really trying to keep in mind how much of this is new and different for Clark. Of course, as any of us would, she does forget from time to time, simply because things are so normal and routine for her.

And Clark - it's a wonder he didn't crash to his knees in thankfulness and wonder when he went into Jonathan's store. His asking for help is really double-edged - a) he really is clueless about shopping and b) it's a perfect opportunity for him to get to know Lois better. He's not manipulating her - he truly wants her opinions and guidance, but her answers also provide him some insight into her, even if he doesn't fully realize it.

And he's truly trying to make a change in his life. Of course, he's also starting to really warm up to his new "family" and he *wants* to be helpful. Not to impress Lois, but it's becoming more and more habitual for him to be thinking of others, even if he still doesn't totally view Bruce as an ally/friends. Lois is still his main concern of course - he *wants* to make her as comfortable as possible. And it's nice to see him thinking ahead - how long *will* he be laying low in Kansas? Will he have a life of his own when the dust settles?

The farmhouse - I actually *was* going to write it as the Kents' old place but, of course, none of them would actually *know* that it was the old Kent farm. So, feel free to think of it however you want - old Kent farm or random other farm.

Lots more to come - and plenty of it WAFFy!

Battle On,
Deadly Chakram

"Being with you is stronger than me alone." ~ Clark Kent

"One little spark of inspiration is at the heart of all creation." ~ Figment the Dragon