Lois & Clark Forums Forums Fan Fiction Lois & Clark Fanfic This Child Belongs To You -- part 7

Chapter Eight
The Sunny Side of Life


Lois bit her lower lip in concentration as she carefully applied the pale lipstick to the woman seated in front of her, noticing the delicately bowed mouth, the smooth ivory-like skin, and wondering, absent-mindedly, why Clark had never commented on such beauty. Yet there was no nagging insecurities in Lois' thoughts on that topic. She was confident that Clark's love for herself made him blind to every other woman... well, perhaps not blind, but definitely immune to their charms. Lois brushed a tiny amount of blusher over Zara's cheekbones, then gave her visitor's hair a final comb before stepping back to view her handiwork.

"There, I think that should do!" Lois smiled encouragingly as she offered her opinion. "That style suits you. See for yourself!" She pulled Zara towards the long mirror and watched as the Kryptonian twisted this way and that, tweaking her new hairstyle and smoothing down her borrowed clothes.

Of course, Lois had been forced to curtail her creativity with the disguise, since Zara's adopted persona was that of a young woman from a very straight-laced, religious background. Both Lois' and Zara's enthusiasm had been dampened by that realisation, though Ching had perked right up. Clearly he didn't relish seeing his wife 'going native' in this busy, chaotic world.

Still, the dark gold bobbed wig and the flower-print dress, which Lois had bought so long ago in Smallville, did suit Zara's colouring and the cut of the dress hugged her curves attractively. There had been some dispute as to whether the attire was suitable, but the dress did have a certain countrified air; the material a subdued brown colour sprinkled with tiny flowers.

Besides, Lois had rummaged through her closets for some time without success. In the aftermath of her first, disastrous wedding to Clark, when she'd been abducted by Lex Luthor and suffered from amnesia, she'd lost some weight and was only now putting it back on. Most of her recently bought clothes were too small for Zara, and Ching had raised a number of objections to what was left of her earlier wardrobe -- the skirts were too short or the tops too revealing. Quite frankly, the Smallville dress was one of her last choices and Ching had grudgingly accepted it. Clark thought the dress would do fine, though he preferred it when worn by his wife. It brought back some very fond memories.

"I do look different," Zara marvelled, barely recognising the woman who stared back at her.

These past few days had seemed much like a vacation for the ruler of New Krypton, while she waited to play her part in Matthew's adoption. Time off duty was a rare occasion for the young woman, or in fact, for any Kryptonian. But, back on New Krypton, the council were managing affairs of state efficiently in her absence, and Zara could finally relax, knowing that her world was at peace and her people were flourishing.

All three Kryptonians had stuck by their intention not to expose themselves for long periods to the yellow sun, but they had found it possible to pay brief visits to Hyperion Avenue and even wander around the city a little, dressed in their drab Earthling outfits from their previous visit.

Even Ching was starting to unbend, and Lord Trey, surprisingly, was enjoying the short expeditions which Martha and Jonathan had persuaded him to take. The elderly councillor had convinced himself he simply wanted to check that Metropolis had recovered completely from Nor's monstrous attack, but he couldn't deny he was fascinated by the eclectic inhabitants who had tried to defend their freedoms against an enemy of much greater strength. During those dark days, he'd learned to admire the indomitable spirit of these people and he now found he was growing to like them too, particularly the Kents.

"Zara?" Lois asked, worried that the silence which was developing meant that something had gone wrong with their plans. "Have you changed your mind?"

"About what?" Zara tore her eyes away from her image in the mirror and turned to Lois, a little shocked to see a flicker of fear on Lois' face. "You mean about Matthew? Lois, it's not my place to change my mind about him. He's not my child. He's yours and Clark's and he belongs with you. This whole adoption thing is only a necessity to make Matthew legally yours in the eyes of your world."

Lois' gaze stayed riveted on her hands as her fingers twisted nervously. "But what I really want to do is shout from the rooftops that Matthew truly is our baby." She raised her face to Zara. "Stupid, I know," she admitted ruefully.

"Not stupid at all! I think I'd feel exactly the same, but, sadly, it's not possible." Zara dared to put her hand on Lois' arm. Such physical contact with a friend would be considered improper back home, but, each day, she found herself leaning more towards Earth ways. "You've kept Clark's secret for a long time, in many dangerous situations. Now you have another secret to keep."

"Yeah! Secrets seem to run in our family, and I'll do everything I can to protect Matthew. Clark can take care of himself, up to a point. He's invulnerable to everything but Kryptonite, but Matthew is so helpless... and he will be, at least for a few years." Lois' voice rose questioningly.

"If you're asking if Matthew will be superpowered, I can't give you a definitive answer. Kryptonians have never bred with another race before. Malaki believes it's only possible with Terrans since our two races share the same genetic patterns. Because the 'K' gene is dominant, he also believes that Matthew will eventually develop Clark's powers, but he can only guess as to the extent of those special abilities."

"So, Matthew will be his father's son," Lois mused. Already she'd caught a few glimpses of Clark in her son's expressions -- a lopsided grin, a soulful stare when he had to wait too long for his bottle. And one day he could have x-ray vision and little ears with too great a range of hearing. Raising a superchild should make life interesting, but she suddenly realised she was looking forward to the future, whatever it might bring.

"But Matthew has as many of your genes as he does Clark's." Zara broke in on Lois' thoughts.

"Oh joy, an impulsive superchild... and, believe me, that's probably one of the better traits he could inherit from me!" Lois said disparagingly.

"Lois, you do yourself a disservice. Matthew is lucky to have you as his mother and I'm sure Clark believes so."

"Clark is biased," Lois chuckled, but she was grateful for Zara's vote of confidence. She wandered over to the dresser and picked up the new photograph which took pride of place there -- the one which Martha had insisted on taking the day after Dr Klein had told them that Matthew really was their child. Both she and Clark still looked a little bemused, but proud and so very happy. "By the way, we've asked Dr Klein to take care of Matthew for now. We didn't think it would be wise to let just any doctor examine him."

"Routine examinations shouldn't be a problem. Matthew might have begun life a little differently, yet Malaki was adamant that it would be impossible to prove how he was conceived. However, he is a hybrid baby, so it would be safer to stick with someone whom you trust."

"Dr Klein is very trustworthy," Lois assured the other woman, thinking that the two doctors must be kindred spirits, since they'd reached pretty much the same conclusions while living on different worlds.

"Malaki certainly thinks so. He's recorded all his findings onto files and holograms which we're to deliver to Dr Klein before we leave. He wanted you and Clark to have someone on Earth who could help you in future. And he also stressed that it was very important that Matthew be treated exactly as an Earth child for as long as possible. Since he has your genes he could be susceptible to contracting indigenous diseases until his invulnerability kicks in."

"Right! Vaccinations, vitamins, dentist's visits... check!" Then Lois stopped. There was still one thing that troubled her... or maybe two questions she still didn't feel comfortable asking... answers she wasn't sure she wanted to hear. Yet, Lois never let fear overcome her. "Zara, I have a question...."

The other woman looked quizzically at Lois, having a fair idea of where this conversation might be going. Truthfully, she was surprised that Lois had waited so long. "Please, feel free to ask me anything." Zara sat back down on the stool in front of the dresser, clasping her hands, waiting calmly for Lois to speak.

With gentle fingers, Lois traced the faces in the picture, then set the frame back in its place. As her head came up, she caught Zara's gaze. Her shoulders straightened. "Dr Klein explained the basics of how you, well, not you personally, created Matthew using DNA which was gathered from Clark and me, somehow...."

"Yes, that's correct. Lois, I don't wholly understand the science either, but Malaki has given very detailed instructions in those files...."

"I'm not interested in the science, not really," Lois stated with a shake of her head. "But, knowing the basics, I'm sure that when you create a cl... some sort of clone, and, whether I like it or not, Matthew has to be one, in a way... you do need a donor egg. Malaki would have needed an egg to implant the cells in.... And once Matthew formed, someone... some female had to carry him till he was ready to be born."

"That's so," Zara said mildly. "Please, Lois, why don't you sit and I'll tell you everything I know. It isn't what you're thinking, I'm sure."

Lois ignored Zara's request to sit, and rather squared off a little belligerently. "How do you know what I'm thinking?"

"You believe I might be involved in Matthew's conception, but I wasn't."

The tension seeped out of Lois' spine and even her legs gave way a little, enough to make her cross to sit on the bed. She didn't really know why that information should comfort her, she just realised that it did. After all, this was a woman who had once been Clark's wife, if only in name.

"Also Malaki dislikes the term clone, he prefers to think that what he accomplished was a type of advanced assisted fertilisation." Zara's lips curled at the corners, recalling the kindly doctor's insistence on that point.

And for the first time since she'd ventured into this topic, Lois spoke enthusiastically. "I'm with him on that! But, if not you, there had to be some other surrogate mother?"

"There was a donor, and to ensure success, Malaki and his team preferred to use a female whose fertility was already proven. This lady has two children of her own. She is also a distant relative of Clark's, from his mother's family, though a few generations back, but we felt that would be appropriate. When we approached her, she was only too happy to help."

"Does this lady have a name?" Again, Lois wasn't sure if she was right to ask. Did she really want to make this person more real to her?

"Her name is Rhanna."

"And she provided the egg, and carried Matthew?" Lois found herself leaning forward, anxious, yet afraid too, to learn of her son's history, before he came into her life.

"She donated the egg which Malaki worked with, but Matthew was gestated in an artificial womb. Birthing matrixes are rare, but not unknown on New Krypton. We felt that you should be the only woman that Matthew should bond with. Though I grew quite fond of him on the journey to Earth; he is such a sweet baby. But Trey was the most accomplished nurture-giver... I think on Earth you would say nanny." At Lois' raised eyebrows, Zara laughed. "Yes, surprising isn't it, but he tells me he has had a lot of practise with his new grandchild."

A slightly hysterical chuckle broke through Lois' intention to remain calm. "Excuse me, but this is all a bit overwhelming. Trey is a grandfather? Though why I should find that hard to believe, I have no idea.... And birthing matrixes? Life on New Krypton sounds so weird, yet on the other hand so normal. You haven't by any chance brought one of those birthing matrixes with you?"

"No, why? You won't need one, Lois, nor a donor egg. Should you and Clark want another child, Dr Klein should be able to replicate the procedure with the help of Malaki's instructions. Once the cells start to divide the egg can be planted in your womb and nature will do the rest."

"Clark and I could have more children? That's what the files are about?"

"Yes, of course. Malaki has every faith in Dr Klein's understanding...."

"Have you told Clark?"

"No, I thought you might want to do that." Zara could see that Lois was somewhat stunned. "It's a lot to take in for the moment. Why don't we concentrate on making Matthew legally your child and a citizen of Earth? Of course, it's for you and Clark to choose whether to give him a brother or sister, but we thought you should have the opportunity, if you wanted to take it."

"Clark and I would need to discuss it...." Yet already a spark of hope had been lit within Lois. They could decide that one child would be enough for them to raise due to their busy schedules and slightly risky jobs. Only, now they had the possibility to have more babies and Lois found her mood suddenly lighten. "Thank you, Zara, and please tell Malaki how much Clark and I appreciate all he's done for us. But you're right, we have an appointment to keep, and I'm sure our men are growing impatient waiting for us."

Right on cue, Clark's voice could be heard, calling up the stairs. "Come on, ladies. We'll be late for our meeting with Constance and her associate if we don't get moving. You know how busy traffic is round noon on Fridays... everyone goes out to lunch!"

"What did I tell you? Coming, Clark," Lois shouted, as she exited the bedroom followed closely by Zara. "You know you should have given Dr Klein the blueprints for that Matrix thingy. All these career women in the US who want kids without taking time off work would die for one of those. We could have made a fortune...."

Zara's eyebrows rose in shock, then she caught the twinkle in Lois' eye and the two women shared a laugh while starting down the stairs. The Kryptonian woman was beginning to appreciate her friend's teasing sense of humour, so she wasn't surprised when Lois halted her at the landing and continued on alone.

The moment Lois reached the living room, she turned with a flourish toward the staircase. "Ta-dah!"

Recognising her cue, Zara walked down the last flight of steps with more confidence than she felt. Two male gazes were locked silently on her.

"What do you think?" Lois asked, prompting both men for a reply. "Isn't she lovely?"

"Very," Clark agreed. "One thing, no one is going to connect her to the imperious First Lady of Krypton.

But if one man was casually complimentary, the other was dumbstruck. It was true, Ching barely recognised his wife... yet he did think she was....

"Beautiful!" He stared for a few seconds as he felt his temperature rise. It appeared that the time spent on this world was beginning to loosen the tight rein he kept on his emotions, and for the moment, he didn't mind one bit. Back home he always had to tread carefully, stay in control, knowing there were a few who still disapproved of his marriage; who were waiting for him to fail as consort to their First Lady. He'd made a promise to himself never to let Zara down and, hopefully, in time even the doubters would be won over.

But here on Earth he was simply Zara's husband and he found he was enjoying the role. Especially when his Zara looked so sexy. "I like it," he said, his voice sounding gruff. "You know, Zara, maybe you should take Lois up on that offer of a little retail therapy -- I believe is how she put it -- before we return home."

That brought a happy smile to Zara's face. "You think so?"

"Sure," Ching replied, his eyes still locked with his wife's.

"Then it's a date," Lois chipped in before the staid Kryptonian changed his mind. "And you know, Ching, you could do with a bit of a makeover yourself."

"What, you don't like the suit?" He glanced down at his mud brown suit, looking crestfallen, but within seconds, his eyes took on a definite gleam as he explored his new easy-going personality. "Perhaps I should borrow one of Clark's ties."

"Oh, I wouldn't go that far." Lois giggled.

"Hey, what's wrong with my ties?"

"Nothing, honey. They're just so... you," Lois told him, slipping her hand through his arm. "But right now we have more important things to think about."

Everyone sobered immediately and hurried to get ready to leave.

"Ok, honey. Mom and Dad have taken Matthew to the park, so let's get started. We only have thirty minutes to get to Constance's office and you know how snarled up the traffic can get." Clark opened the front door and stood aside to let the other couple past, then leaned down to whisper in Lois' ear. "By the way, what were you and Zara laughing about as you came down the stairs?"

"I'll tell you later," Lois said mysteriously. Her hand tightened on his arm and for a moment tears sparkled in her eyes. "Clark, this is going to be all right?"

"Sure, Lois." But Clark sounded more confident than he actually was. He ushered Lois outside and locked up. "It'll be ok. You'll see."

Clark was aware that whatever happened in the next few days was crucial to their happiness, and though their attorney had taken care of all the legal arrangements and assured them that she couldn't foresee any problems with the adoption, Constance Hunter wasn't aware of the true facts. No one except their little band of conspirators could know the truth, and fear of discovery haunted Clark. He knew similar nightmares beset Lois. Yet as long as their cover story remained intact then surely nothing could go wrong. After all, it was very unlikely anyone would suspect this wasn't a normal adoption or that the baby in question began life on a far off planet. Constance Hunter certainly hadn't and she'd been only too happy to represent them.

Today, they would pass Doctor Warner's documentation on Matthew's birth over to Constance, and Zara, aka Sarah Kennedy, would sign an affidavit, relinquishing all rights to 'her' child in favour of Lois and Clark. As required by law, there would be another attorney present to witness the signing of Sarah's statement, but that was just a formality and, since the lawyer was recommended by Constance, he probably wouldn't ask too many awkward questions.

Acting on Constance's advice, an advertisement had already been placed in The Daily Planet and a couple of local Boston newspapers asking the father of Sarah's baby to come forward if he had any objections to his child being adopted. Both Lois and Clark were surprised that the man didn't need to be named, but Constance pointed out that since Sarah Kennedy's name did appear, the father would know his own identity and make himself available, if he so wished. Of course, that was never going to happen, but the ad had to run for three weeks before the case could be heard by a judge in Family Court.

Once on the stoop, Clark bent down towards his wife and dropped a kiss on her forehead. "Come on, Lois. I know you're scared. I am too, but this time there's no Ms Bailey to object, and we're not going to let anyone take Matthew away from us. If I have to fly us all away to a desert island, we're a family now and I won't let anything destroy that. I promise."

Again, Clark had given her strength. "You're right! We've fought for what we believe in before, and I've never believed in anything quite so much as our right to Matthew. But I don't think we'll need that desert island. It is going to be fine... we're going to be fine." And Lois climbed into the Jeep with added determination; they were going to make this adoption happen.

*****

A little over three weeks later, Lois and Clark sat in one of the smaller hearing rooms of Metropolis City Courthouse, while Matthew was strapped into his carry-seat on top of the long table in front of them. To say that Lois had butterflies in her tummy would be to understate the truth, though she tried very hard to remain as calm as possible and concentrate on the proceedings. She was sure that Clark was feeling the strain too. From her vantage point at his side, she could see the muscle in his jaw spasm -- a sure sign he was anxious.

The temperature was high for a late Spring day, and the outmoded air-conditioning system in the old building struggled to cope with the afternoon heat. Lois felt flushed, though she wasn't sure if it was a symptom of the cloying atmosphere or her jangled nerves. She checked out the other members of the court and wondered if they too were feeling over warm.

At the head of the table Judge Roberta Sharpe presided, a small curly-haired woman whose expression was serious, but not unkind. She also looked trim and cool as a cucumber. Constance, still sporting her preferred natty gentleman's attire, and the guardian ad litem, the lawyer appointed to represent Matthew's interests, sat on the opposite side of the table, both seeming very composed.

Yes, Lois deduced, she and Clark were the only ones who were feeling slightly nervous. And what did she mean, slightly? Never had Lois experienced such apprehension -- not even at each one of her three marriages! And she'd face a thousand Lex Luthors or Tempuses rather than this hearing.

Lois held tightly to one of Clark's hands, while her free hand stroked the soft skin of her son's arm. They were her anchor in the storm. The baby cooed as his attention was caught by the shafts of sunlight, tinted like a rainbow by the stained-glass windows set high in the walls of the vaulted room. Matthew stretched his hands towards the dancing sunbeams, and Lois was heartened by the way the judge's eyes softened at the sight of the happy playful baby. Yet the change was only momentary, and the woman returned business-like to the task in hand.

Both Lois and Clark were sworn in before they were asked a number of pertinent questions which they were able to answer with complete confidence and sincerity. It was their dearest wish that Matthew be considered their son in every sense of the word... and forever.

At the end of the questioning, Constance sent the prospective parents encouraging glances, endorsing Lois' supposition that everything seemed to be going well. Both lawyers concluded with a few additional comments, then the judge was left to study the documentation, occasionally asking for clarification on some particular points. Finally silence settled over the room -- even Matthew had fallen asleep -- as Judge Sharpe reread some of the paperwork.

The butterflies in Lois' stomach turned into giant bats and she was shocked when she felt her husband's palm grow sticky. Clark didn't normally perspire, but this wasn't a normal situation. Moments stretched out seemingly endlessly.... Clark and Lois hardly dared to breathe; the only sound in the room a faint rustling of paper and the hypnotizing hum of circulating air.

Finally, the judge looked directly at the couple sitting expectantly on her right. "I'm satisfied, Mr and Mrs Kent, that you understand the responsibilities of parenting Matthew and this court endorses your petition to adopt Matthew." Judge Sharpe signed the papers and set her pen aside tidily. "A new birth certificate will be issued for Matthew Kent, registering Lois and Clark Kent as his mother and father. Now that the adoption is finalized, the law instructs that the records will hereafter be sealed by the court."

At last, Matthew was where he belonged, and Lois and Clark found they could breathe again. They started to smile, happy beaming smiles that came from within.

"Judge Sharpe, can I ask something, please?" Clark spoke up earnestly, though he couldn't quite suppress the joyful laughter in his voice. "There is one thing I... we would like added to the birth certificate." He bumped gently against Lois' shoulder.

"Of course." The woman inclined her head. "If you would tell the clerk of court your wishes, he'll do his best to oblige. Now, if there is no further business, Mr and Mrs Kent, I suggest you take your very cute son home and start enjoying your life with him." Judge Sharpe couldn't resist returning those joyful grins as she closed the proceedings and made ready to leave the room.

The moment the judge had gone, Lois and Clark hugged each other tightly, each laughing through tears, yet saying nothing -- no words could express the depth of their emotions. After a second or two of shared bliss, they broke apart to shake hands with Constance and her colleague across the table. Then, obeying the judge's instructions, Clark lifted his son's carry-seat and Lois and he walked arm in arm from the hearing room, pausing only to exchange a few words with the court official on their way. Both attorneys congratulated each other on a successful result as they strolled behind.

*****

Outside in the warm sunlight, five people waited nervously for the outcome of the adoption hearing. Occasionally, one or another of the men would pace up and down, while the two women talked quietly between themselves. Each member of the group had done everything in their power to ensure a welcome result and now they could only wait. Not one of them could say precisely how long they were waiting... time seemed to stand still.

Yet, when Lois and Clark came through the large doorway of the Courthouse, none of the group could doubt the verdict; Lois' and Clark's huge grins and shining eyes revealed all. Almost in concert, they sighed in relief, watching as the couple spent a few moments saying their goodbyes to the lawyers who had helped them in their quest to legalize Matthew's birthright.

Very soon, Lois and Clark crossed the road, their steps so light that both surreptitiously checked that they were still in contact with the ground. Clark had a tendency to float when he was blissfully happy, but everything was normal... except normal was now changed forever.

In the park, the others moved forward to greet the couple, Martha and Jonathan briefly outstripping the Kryptonians to congratulate their kids with special hugs and kisses.

“Mom, Dad, and everyone, Lois and I would like to introduce you to our son, Matthew Malachi Lane Kent,” Clark declared proudly.

“Oh, my, that's such a mouthful for a tiny boy, but it's a lovely name.” Martha smiled as she dashed the tears from her cheek and bent to kiss her grandson, while Jonathan stood with his arm around his daughter-in-law, a doting grin on his face.

“It's also very appropriate,” Lois confided as Zara and company moved forward to add their congratulations and best wishes. She lifted her eyes to include the New Kryptonians... Clark's people, whom she now thought of as part of their family. “I chose the name Matthew because I liked the name, and it seemed to suit him. But I've since found out that the name means 'gift' and Malachi means 'angel', the angel who gave us this most wonderful gift....” Lois meant to continue but she found her voice choking with emotion.

“We wanted to thank Malaki, but nothing seemed to be enough.” Clark spoke up to allow Lois time to recover. “And we felt it should be something that would always remind us of how much he did for us....”

“So we decided that Matthew should have his name, or the Earth equivalent!” Lois finished, a tiny self-conscious smile ghosting across her face; Clark still didn't know the extent of the gift they'd been given. She hadn't yet found time to tell him, since they'd been intent on the adoption and learning to be good parents. At present, Clark was finding it a little hard to balance his two jobs with his thrill at being a daddy and she hadn't wanted to distract him. For the first time in his life, Lois was sure he viewed his Superman duties as a necessary nuisance.

She just hoped that no one associated Superman's rather patchy appearances over the last few weeks with the arrival of young Matthew Kent. Though that worry was probably groundless. After all, the public wasn't aware that Mr and Mrs Kent had adopted a child. Nor would they be interested, since the fact was hardly newsworthy. Besides, Clark was quickly learning to adapt and only those who already had suspicions would see the connection... people like Perry.

“Malaki will be gratified by the gesture,” Zara said, breaking into Lois' train of thought. “Though he believes that helping you both fulfil your desire is reward enough.”

“Tell him that Lois and I thank him from the bottom of our hearts.” Clark felt his own throat constrict and he felt Lois' hand tighten on his arm. For a few seconds no one spoke until Trey ventured to lighten the mood.

“Malaki and I will enjoy toasting young Matthew-Malaki's health with the wine which you've so kindly given us to take back to New Krypton.” The elderly lord smiled pleasantly in contemplation of sampling the bottles of fine wine from the crate that Superman had delivered to the orb ship. In a very short time Trey had become quite a connoisseur – he could certainly get used to this world's wining and dining traditions.

“Don't think you're keeping all those to yourself, Lord Trey. My wife will be expecting a share,” Ching quipped ironically.

“Ching, I do believe you've turned an emotional corner,” Lois said, laughing and everyone joined in.

Even Matthew attempted a toothless grin, burping as he did so and the little group's laughter grew louder, causing passers-by to look questioningly in their direction.

“Perhaps we should carry on this celebration back home,” Clark suggested, hoping to keep a low profile, as always.

Zara suddenly sobered and her gaze fell momentarily. “I'm sorry, Clark, but that won't be possible. It's time for us to leave.”

“No!” Lois remonstrated, surprised by the depth of her disappointment. It had been so long since she'd had a close girl friend of her own age and she'd come to appreciate Zara's companionship. “Can't you spare another day, at least?”

“Lois, we're truly sorry and we would love to stay for the party....” This time it was Zara whose voice died and whose eyes filled with tears. She too had loved having another woman who regarded her as an equal and who didn't bow in deference whenever she entered a room.

“Zara is correct,” Ching interposed, but his tone was kindly and filled with genuine regret. Earthlings, and particularly these Earthlings had taught him that it was neither weak nor improper to show feelings. “We've been away from New Krypton for far too long and, besides, Earth's sun is starting to have an affect on us. We grow stronger with each passing day.”

“We'll miss you all so much, but it's time for us to go home,” Zara continued sadly, yet there was no denying the yearning in her voice when she spoke the word 'home'.

“Will we ever see you again?” Clark asked somewhat diffidently. After their last visit, he'd been relieved to see his people leave. Though Zara and he had become friends, he'd never felt any rapport with the rest of the New Kryptonians. Yet this time was different. He'd shared some touching conversations with Trey who had actually been acquainted with Jor-El, discovered he had relatives on New Krypton and developed an empathy for Ching, once the younger Kryptonian man had dropped his guard.

“I doubt there will be any reason for us to return, so we must say a final goodbye. Take care of each other and be happy... and look after this little one.” Zara's hand strayed to rest on the baby's silken hair.

“We will always love him, Zara,” Lois vowed softly, stepping close to wrap her arms around her friend. “But I wish we didn't have to say goodbye forever....”

“I never thought it would be so hard to take leave of my own people for all time.” Clark was by Lois' side, needing her comfort, yet offering her support too.

“It is difficult for us too,” Lord Trey acknowledged readily. “For me, it has been an honor to get to know you, Clark... and you, Lois... all of you.” His glance strayed to the older Kents before coming back to rest on Clark. “I know Jor-El and Lara would be very proud of the fine man you've become. New Krypton lost a great leader in you, my boy, but I now understand why your place is here on Earth with Lois.” New Krypton's First Councillor shook hands with all the Kents then moved off a little, leaving Zara and Ching to say their goodbyes.

“I don't know what to say here... except to wish you long lives and happiness.... ” Clark stammered, then turned to pass his sleeping son to Jonathan. He rested his hands lightly on Zara's shoulders, bending to drop a gentle kiss on her forehead. When he straightened, Ching was waiting to shake his hand, but Clark wasn't about to let his friend leave with such a casual salutation. Whether Ching was ready for it or not, Clark pulled him closer, slapping his back. Amazingly, Ching returned the gesture.

“Goodbye, Clark and Lois. I never believed it possible, but I have enjoyed my time spent here with you,” Ching admitted, his mouth quirking in a rueful grin. “Your sports are most pleasurable.” Clark had shown him how to throw a few 'hoops'. “Earth is not a bad place to visit, but I still prefer New Krypton.”

That brought a smile back to everyone's faces and Zara and Ching exchanged final farewells with Lois, Clark, Martha and Jonathan, not forgetting little Matthew.

“We have a transporter cloaked in an alleyway behind the courthouse, so we won't return to Hyperion Avenue this time,” Zara explained, lingering a little behind as her menfolk backed away. “Lois, the package I spoke of is back at the house. Don't forget to deliver it to Dr Klein.”

“I won't.” Lois raised her voice as Zara started walking off.

“Good luck!”

Zara's last words drifted back to the Kent family as they watched the three stride down the street and disappear round the corner of the municipal buildings. Clark lowered his glasses for a moment, following their progress, until the meaning of Zara's message penetrated his thoughts.

“Package? What package?”

Lois smiled mistily at her husband. “It's a long story, honey. I'll explain later. Now I think we should go home too. It's almost time for Matthew's dinner and you know how crabby he gets if he doesn't get fed.”

The thought of an angry baby howling his dismay in the middle of the park didn't much appeal to Clark. “Sounds like a good idea, honey! And now that you mention it, I'm pretty hungry myself.”

“Clark, you don't need to eat!” Lois retorted.

“No he doesn't,” Martha agreed, “But when did that ever stop him?”

“You do know that's all your fault, Mom?” Clark joked, taking his son back from his father. His mood brightened, but he still felt the need to keep Matthew close. “You shouldn't be such a good cook.”

Lois linked arms again with Clark. “Martha, Clark has a point. I'm sure I've put on pounds since you've been here....”

“Ha! Why do you think I'm this size, Lois?” Jonathan patted his rounded stomach, joining in the banter as the family made their way back to the Jeep and home.

*****

Lois soon discovered it was more difficult to let Clark in on her news about the Kryptonian package than she'd expected. When the family returned home they found Ellen Lane waiting impatiently on the stoop. Aware of the date of the adoption hearing, Ellen had cut short her extended stay in Florida to return to Metropolis, but, unfortunately, due to a delayed flight, she'd arrived too late to show up at courthouse. Instead, she'd made her way directly to Hyperion Avenue and her nerves were on edge by the time the family arrived home. The joy on her mother's face when told the good news surprised and delighted Lois.

Not long after their homecoming, Sam also turned up. He'd phoned earlier and, learning the good news, didn't want to miss out on the celebrations. He arrived bearing a huge blue rabbit, bright balloons and a large bottle of champagne. However, this time Sam remembered his wife and his gift sack also contained a bottle of sparkling Perrier water.

Lois couldn't suppress a wish that her father had shown just one small part of such enthusiasm for her own childish accomplishments, but bleak thoughts had no place in her heart at this moment. As everyone toasted the 'newest' Kent, Lois smiled at both her parents, realizing it was never too late to mend fences.

The party was complete when Jimmy and Perry arrived at Hyperion Avenue, considerably earlier than either would normally leave the Planet. Since no one seemed inclined to go home, Clark ordered dinner from his wife's favorite Chinese takeout and a good time was had by all, not excepting little Matthew who seemed to be a very sociable child. A little like his father, Martha imparted in an aside to her daughter-in-law. Which was probably a very good circumstance, Lois considered as she watched her baby being fussed over by all, and seemingly loving every minute.

Now, as twilight fell and their guests had finally gone, Martha and Lois cleared away the refuse of the impromptu party. Jonathan snoozed comfortably in his favourite chair in the living room, while Clark bathed and put his weary son to bed. Tiredness had finally overtaken the little boy and he'd grown a little fractious, which was no bad thing either, Lois concluded, as it had prompted the others to say their goodbyes. Now she just wanted to relax. It had been a very long day for the Kents, one which had dawned with them all in a state of high tension.

“It's been a tiring day, but a wonderful one too,” Martha said, echoing Lois' thoughts, as she switched on the dishwasher.

“Oh, it has!” Lois dried her hands with a dishtowel and found herself using it to dab at her eyes, which were suddenly leaking fresh tears. “Sorry for blubbering, again,” Lois hiccuped between a sob and a smile. “I think I'm just a little tired.”

“Oh, honey, that's just reaction kicking in. You've been under a lot of strain lately. And I'll bet those are happy tears.”

“Martha, I never knew I could be so happy. Clark and I have shared so many monumental days, but this must top every one of them. I feel over the moon! Never in my wildest imaginings could I have dreamed how proud I would feel to be a mother.”

“Sweetie, this is just the beginning. You'll have many days when you feel so proud you could burst. His first tooth, his first step, that wonderful day when he says Mommy for the first time. and later his very first day at school.” Martha's hand settled over her heart as her mind strolled down memory lane. “And it never stops. I'm still so proud of my son and my daughter.” Martha pulled Lois into a hug, her own eyes moist. “Of course, you do a fair bit of worrying too along the way, but that's just part of being a mom.”

“And a grandmother too, I'm sure.” Lois smiled. “I'm glad I'll have you to come to for advice.”

The two women stayed close for a moment before Martha stood back, dragging a tissue from the box on the counter to blow her nose. “Jonathan and I will always be there for you and Clark. You know that, Lois, but you have someone even closer at hand – your mother.”

“I should be shocked by that suggestion, but I'm not. Mother was so good with Matthew today. Even Daddy! I think they're going to be much better grandparents than they were parents and that makes me even happier. It's like we have a chance to be a family again.”

“Good! Ellen and Sam deserve a second chance. Now, why don't you leave me to finish up in here and join Clark upstairs with Matthew – they'd both appreciate that.”

Lois took a quick look round her kitchen and decided that most of the tidying was done. “If you're sure, Martha. There really is something I need to tell Clark, something way overdue.” For a second, Lois looked a little serious, then she gave a distinct chuckle. “And I'm not ashamed to admit that I get a kick out of watching my baby sleep. He looks so sweet and innocent.”

“Enjoy it while you can, Lois. Once he starts teething you won't get many moments of peace, not if he's anything like his father.”

“I take it that's one of those times when it isn't quite so great to be a parent?”

“You'll cope, Lois, and the good times always outweigh the... not so good!”

Sending Martha a final grin, Lois headed up the stairs to her husband and son.

*****

Epilogue
When You Wish Upon A Star

“Do you see it, Matthew? That's our star, New Krypton, where we have our roots, but Earth is our home. Metropolis, here with Mom, is where we really belong.”

Lois pushed open the door to the newly furnished nursery to hear Clark talking quietly to his son. They were by the window, Matthew cradled in the crook of his father's large arm, while Clark's other hand pointed to a bright point of light, shining high in the cloudless heavens.

Once, long ago, she'd stood by a window at Clark's side as he'd pointed out that selfsame star, only that night her heart had been heavy with sadness and fear for the future. They were saying goodbye, perhaps forever, and the knowledge that both she and Clark were doing the right thing by parting... the only thing that could be done under the circumstances, had only highlighted her frustration.

But Clark had come back to her and slowly they'd managed to put the whole terrible episode of Lord Nor's attack on Earth behind them. Yet she'd despaired for Clark when he revealed he'd felt no connection with his people. Of course, Clark always insisted that Martha, Jonathan and herself made up all the family he needed.

Lois suspected that might be a tiny delusion on his part, which was why this second visit had proved so rewarding. This time, he'd gotten to know at least three of his race and had found that hitherto missing affinity. She'd been content to watch the bond grow between Zara, Ching, Trey and her husband, yet she'd been surprised to experience a similar link. And it wasn't just because the visitors had brought them the one thing they didn't dare to desire too much. Matthew was the icing on the cake.

Lois felt a contented warmth spread through her being as she listened to Clark croon slightly out of tune to his son while rocking him back and forth. They made such a wonderful picture, which she took a moment to enjoy before walking forward and slipping an arm round Clark's waist.

“Will you miss them?” Lois asked, laying her head against his shoulder.

“Uh-huh. But not half as much as I'd miss you, if you're asking where I'd rather be.”

“No!” Lois lifted her head, gazing toward the far-off world. “I know the answer to that question. We were meant to be together, but that doesn't mean you can't miss your own kin. I was sad to see them go too.”

“Then, yes, honey, it does make me a little sad, but Zara and Ching did what they came to do and their place is back on New Krypton. I'll always be grateful that they helped us out with our problem, though. I never expected it.”

“Me neither,” Lois smiled again and traced her hand up Clark's arm. “Now that it's official, I take it you're thrilled to be a father?”

“Thrilled doesn't cut it, Lois. Excited, astounded, even a little scared, but totally happy.” Clark leaned down and placed a lingering kiss on Lois' inviting lips.

The kiss might have lengthened, but Matthew squirmed, feeling his safe position tilt a little. Lois and Clark parted at once and together watched their son stretch, his rosebud mouth opening wide in a yawn.

“Has he been fed?” Lois asked, eager to do her duty.

“No, I thought you might want to do that before he goes to sleep. Why don't you take him and I'll fetch his bottle.”

A few minutes later, Lois was settled in her rocking chair with Matthew busily guzzling his evening meal. “This is my best-loved time of day, Clark. Just you, me and Matthew here alone. Even the city seems quiet.”

“That's good. I'm all for Metropolis behaving itself tonight. I kinda appreciate this time too.” Clark sat down on the edge of a wooden toy box, in touching distance of his family. But for now he was content just to stare at the two people he loved beyond life. “Honey, when I was a kid growing up, I dreamed of finding 'the one' person who would make me feel complete. I wanted so much to get married and raise a family, just like my parents. When I met you, I knew without a shadow of doubt that the first part of my dream had come true and, when you married me, I couldn't have wished for more. But I guess the second part of my dream was always there in the background. And even though I pretended otherwise, I was always afraid that the 'family' part might not be possible. Dr Klein's prognosis almost broke my heart.”

Lois' arms were filled with her child, but she reached out to him with her words. “I know, Clark. I might not have had the same dream while I was growing up, but falling in love with you changed that. Being told we couldn't have children hurt me more than I'd ever imagined.”

“I never doubted you'd make a great mom.” Clark's smile rested tenderly on Lois. “But I keep having to pinch myself to be certain I'm not dreaming.”

“I do the same thing, Clark.” Matthew's mouth dropped away from the bottle and Lois lifted him to her shoulder to burp him.

“Oh, wait, Lois, I have a cloth here.” A couple of seconds were taken up in the humdrum business of covering Lois' shoulder with a terri-diaper, then Clark reseated himself on the box. “I'm sure that the uncertainty of the adoption contributed to that.”

“True, now we can settle down to being a family without having to worry that someone like Ms Bailey is going to take Matthew from us.”

“Right!” Matthew's loud burp interrupted his father and both parents chuckled. “I diapered him right after his bath, so maybe he's ready to go to sleep now.”

Clark helped Lois stand and they walked together over to the new crib. Matthew had already outgrown
Clark's bassinet. As Lois laid him down and covered him, another yawn split his baby face and his eyelids fluttered shut, his dark lashes shadowing his plump cheeks.

“Don't you think he's the prettiest baby you've ever seen?” Lois asked, completely forgetting the fact that she used to think people who gushed over infants were slightly neurotic.

“Definitely! He has your long lashes, Lois.” Clark closed in behind his wife and laced his arms around her small frame. He dropped a kiss on the top of her head. “I always pictured having a bigger family, honey, but after believing we'd never have any kids, Matthew is much more than enough and, just so you know, he is beautiful.”

There was a moment when Lois hesitated, then she leaned back into her husband's embrace, still watching her baby. “Clark, Matthew might not be our only child,” she said slowly.

“How so?” Clark asked somewhat dreamily, soothed by the quiet shadows of the room.

“That package for Dr Klein from Malaki, it's an instruction manual or hologram, probably a bit of both. Zara says that Malaki is confident that Bernie will be able to help us make another baby. And we won't even need a birthing matrix; I can manage that part. So you see....”

Clark interrupted, turning Lois round and staring earnestly into her eyes. “You mean we could have more children?”

“I think so.”

“Oh, Lois,” Clark ground out, pulling her tightly against his hard body. “That's great news.” Yet, strangely, Lois grew still in his arms. Was she a bit unsure? Perhaps it was too soon to be discussing more children and this was a decision they had to make together. Setting his hands gently on her shoulders he held her a little away from him, care and admiration for her his first consideration. “That really is amazing, but if you don't mind, sweetheart, we can figure that out in the future. In the meantime,” he told her laughingly, “we'll have a terrific family of... three.”

Love glowed in Lois' returning gaze and a smile touched her lips as she once again entered the haven of his arms. Clark always knew just the right thing to say.

The End