It is a very interesting twist having Lois come from Krypton. The premise has all sorts of possibilities.
This is beautifully written story. I see that Nicole has also quoted this line, but I can't resist quoting it as well:
Lois’s earliest memories were bittersweet. She remembered Mama, but the glorious full colors of that time when she’d been the happiest had faded into pale watercolor hues. Always beautiful, but muted with time.
This line is so descriptive and conveys the idea of fading memories wonderfully. It resonated with me.
She could feel the tears starting in her eyes. Mama wasn’t going to be able to stay much longer. They were running out of time.
Mama’s eyes were starting tears, too. Once again, Lois tucked her head up close to Mama’s, and they stayed that way a long, long time. Snuggled tight and crying.
Saying goodbye.
This part nearly brought tears to my eyes, and that doesn’t happen to me very often when reading stories.
“I won’t ever forget, Mama,” she whispered as the casket was lowered into the grave. “I won’t ever forget that you love me. I won’t ever forget about the dragons. And doing what’s right. I promise.”
Now the doctors were leading Lois to the car, the big black one that Mr. Dr. Lane drove. Lois bit her lip and climbed into the back seat. She was going to be strong, so Mama would be proud of her. She was going to fight dragons when she grew up.
It will be interesting to see how the dragons have manifested themselves in the present.
Between the fact that most of this post consists of flashback, the fairly tale references, and the skillful writing, this story has an almost ethereal quality. Quite unexpected for a story entitled “The Girl Next Door.”
Can’t wait to see what the next part has in store. There are so many questions I have just from the first part. Will the identity of Lois’ deceased mother be of any importance? What is Clark’s background? Was he still raised by the Kents? Did this Clark come from Krypton as well? My imagination has been stirred by this post.
-Em
