When we were in Smallville, it felt plausible that Lois could easily become a member of that charming community. Because Clark simply couldn’t leave. Now it feels like she is an absolutely essential part of the Daily Planet. And Clark’s destiny is waiting for him there with Lois. ..... I will enjoy the journey; knowing this story has more than one possible happily ever after outcome.
You hit on a theme that we've discussed EXTENSIVELY in our brainstorming.
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(Which is all a long-winded way of saying, yes, it's a deliberate story point, and Lois and Clark will eventually have some big decisions to make.
)
Yeah, extensively is definitely the right word for the amount of brainstorming and discussion and debate that went into that plot point.