I feel like I'm on a roller coaster in the dark--all these twists and turns and I haven't seen any of them coming! Wow!
I'm sorry I haven't commented on the last few parts--life's been busy.
At any rate, here are some comments/observations on the three most recent chapters of a terrific story.
1. I'm really surprised Martha never told Lois about Clark/Superman. Surely she could have trusted her with the secret, especially after Clark was dead.
2. I love how you play up the "my younger self is an idiot" idea, then give a plausible explanation for it--she's trying to help her grandmother.
3. What a great scene with Lois and Clark on the couch.
All those years of anguish are definitely coming out here. Of course, now it's Lois who is completely sure of her feelings and Clark who doesn't know what to make of anything.
4. I love the idea of the older and younger versions of Lois battling for control. On one hand, young Lois has every right to her own life. However, the reader easily identifies with the older Lois' plight. It really brings up all sorts of philosophical questions about the nature of self...very intriguing. Plus, the line about Lois being her own "other woman" is terrific.
5. Poor Clark. He's obviously in love, yet they're doing the friends bit again. I'm very curious to find out what's really been going on with them in the three years since Lois' last appearance.
6. Since she's changed the future, why hasn't her memory shifted? Is she linked to a particular moment in time, an newly created alternate universe, etc.?
7. TEMPUS!
I should have known it was him! I'm still not sure I "get" his plan, but I'm looking forward to seeing it foiled once again!
Excellent work!