Part I- A Lifetime's Dream: Memories... (Rated PG-13)

[#7superherofan]

This is my first story Clark/Lana story, not to mention my first attempt at fiction writing at all, so I hope all other Clana Lovers will appreciate it. An idea began to form in my mind about two years ago and a la “Wall of Weird”, it just sort of mutated into this story. It’s a work in progress, my overall ambition is to basically rewrite most of Smallville’s season 5 episodes( three guesses as to where it starts before I tell you), a lot of season six’s, and a good deal of season seven’s. It could be a long, long, really long story. As I probably don’t want one thread with like a thousand pages, each season will probably be posted on different threads, connected by the story’s overall title: A Lifetime’s Dream: Memories of Choice, Love, and Destiny.”(If you think that sounds as pretentious as I do, I’d really appreciate some suggestions.) Part One is the connection point to the others, but will also be a complete story in itself just in case something (oh I don’t know college starting up again, maybe) interferes and this is all I end up writing. So thanks for your interest, and without further ado…
Title: Part I- A Lifetime’s Dream: Memories of Choice, Love, and Destiny.
Author: #7superherofan
Pairings: Part One- this will be very much a Clana-centric story, with lots of dialogue between them, and a lot of past questions and explanations resurfacing. The rest of the stories will mostly follow the other relationships that occurred on the show: Clark and Lana, Lois and Oliver, Clark and Lana, Jimmy and Chloe, did I mention Clark and Lana yet?
Rating: PG-13- slightly sensual, mild language- same as the show.
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Superman was created by Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel, belongs to D.C. comics, and Smallville was created by Alfred Cough and Miles Millar. I borrow plotline and some dialogue from Smallville writers. Hats off to all of them, this is really hard work.
Summary: Pretty much covered it- A Romantic/Action epic that has at its heart the love affair of those two adorable star-crossed lovers, Clark Kent and Lana Lang. A bit more about Part One in specific- basically rewriting the second part of the episode “Reckoning” (Seriously, Clana fans one and all, wouldn’t you?) Many of you have written wonderful stories on the subject and I thought I’d share my own idea on how to solve that episodes puzzling predicament- how can our Girl know her True Love’s secret, yet still be safe from He Who It’s Not Worth Mentioning? There’s a prologue which you may not understand, or find that interesting, but it’s kind of important, 'cause it’s part of the connecting link for all of the story’s different sections.
Prologue: An Ending Before A Tragic Beginning
The French doors swung open with a gentle burst of breeze, and there flew though the doors a vision, a Greek deity statue brought to life. The man shared the beauty of Apollo; his upright, confident bearing would have humbled Zeus himself. His square-jawed, chiseled features, along with the quite authority present in his serene blue-green eyes, marked him for what he was- a leader of great wisdom and kindness. He appeared to middle aged, no more than fifty, though his unruly black hair and the sweet smile on his full red lips still lent him a boyish quality. He carefully cradled in his arms a bouquet of lilacs, and he inhaled the pastel flowers’ sweet aroma. “The flowers represent springtime, everything that is gracious and lovely, as does my angel’s heart,” was the quiet refrain of his own heart.
The Greek God shut the French doors, and crossed the room he’d entered. It was a Master Suite, with a cozy, fireplaced sitting room preceding a secluded sleeping area. The whole room reflected a perfect blend of rustic charm and classic grace. The walls were adorned with replicas of Grant Wood’s American Gothic, and The Water Lilies by Claude Monet. The furniture was a mix. A chic black faux-suede couch and handmade rocking chair were in the sitting room, while in the bedroom an antique four post bed was covered with a hand quilted comforter in colors of cobalt blue, brick red, and corn yellow.
A figure lay on the bed, a lady who rested in quiet slumber. She was elderly, and with her plump, diminutive stature and wrinkled face, was the image of sweetest Grandmother Hood. The Lady had been a charming beauty in her younger days, and to the Greek God’s point of view, she still was the only creature who could leave him in awe of her exquisite loveliness. He placed the lilacs in a vase that was on a bedside table, and picked up a watch that lay next to the vase. The watch was a common enough looking object, except for the strange luminescent glow of its blue dial. The luminescence flashed brighter when slipped on the man’s wrist and he clutched the bed stand for support.
“Whew,” he thought as the tremor of weakness spread throughout his body. “That is never an entirely pleasant experience.” It couldn’t have been, for a great change had overcome the man when the watch had been slipped on his wrist. The handsome, boyishly middle aged Greek God was no more to be seen; instead it was an elderly, white haired gentleman who knelt next to his sleeping beauty and held her hand in his own. As if waiting for his touch to awaken her, the lady stirred and smiled up at lover.
“How is it” her heart asked again,” that to look in his eyes is to again see him for the first time? No matter how many years pass he’s still that beautiful boy I fell in love with. Everything is the same, right down to his blue jeans and red jacket.”
The perfumed scent attracted the Lady to the fresh bouquet and she squeezed her Lovers hand in appreciation.
“Lilac’s in the middle of winter. Thank you.”
“Still number one, right, Angel?”
“That’s not likely to change after all these years.” She laughed softly, but then fell into a fit of coughing that threatened to tear her chest apart. A whistling rasped through her breath, her weakened lungs victim to the pneumonia that had plagued her for a month. “Certainly not today, anyway,” she wheezed.
“No, no, my Angel, you can’t talk that way. You’re, we’re going to survive this, like we have everything else.”
The Lady reached out her hand and gently caressed her Lover’s cheek. There was so much pain in his face and though it was an inevitable pain, she still tried to soothe him one last time.
“Don’t grieve, my beautiful boy. I’m ready now. It’s time.”
He shook his head, an emphatic “no”. “Wait, please. It just can’t be today.”
“I know what day it is. It was always supposed to have been today. Thank you, Lover, for every moment of my seventy extra years.”
Her Lover’s eyes had become blue-green oceans. “Thank you, Angel, for choosing to spend those years with me. Do you ever regret it?”
The Lady regarded her Lover and then looked into the sitting room, where a half dozen or so people were assembled. Their hushed, almost nonexistent conversation, and their grim faces, showed that the grey cloaked, somber figure of Death was all to present in their midst. The Lady tenderly gazed at them, then smiled at her Lover and shook her head.
“Not one regret in the world. You?”
He kissed her hand, her lips, and then rested his forehead on hers. “Regret? How could I? There were so many times that a lifetime spent with you was a dream that was impossible to come true for me. Every time that we tried to make it a reality only seemed to drive you further out of my life. That night when I thought I’d lost you for good…” He sighed and shook his head. “Well, you remember.”
“You remember better than I do, of course, though my own memories of that night are impossible to forget. That night, seventy years ago exactly, was really where our story started. Oh, speaking of stories, have you written anymore?”
“Yes,” he responded, and picked up a folder from the bedstead. The Angel scooted over to the middle of the bed so her Lover could lie next to her. He did, and she rested her head on his chest while he stroked her hair. “What part should I read?” He asked tenderly.
She flipped through some of the typed pages. “Start here…”
**********
The red Explorer ran through the Stop sign and collided with the little yellow school bus. Metal rammed into metal with a screeching, sickening crunch. The driver of the bus slammed on the breaks and stared in horror as the Explorer flipped off the road. It rolled once, twice, three times before landing on its roof. The young woman driver, Lana Lang, had been instantly killed when she flew through the windshield. Another motorist also watched the tragic death, and slammed on the brakes of his flashy, silver Porsche.
“Lana”, Lex Luthor screamed as he scrambled out of the car. He stopped before he ran to her, paralyzed by acute feelings of guilt. Guilt that quickly sobered him from the half bottle of Bourbon that he’d consumed earlier in the evening.
“She’s dead. Lana, no. It’s my fault, if I hadn’t frightened her…NO, NOT MY FAULT! CLARK KENT’S! If Lana hadn’t lied about knowing that two faced farm boy’s secret, I’d never have…What?!” What Lex might never have done was lost, as where his feelings of anger and guilt, to the most utter astonishment. Clark Kent, the object of Lex’s thoughts, had suddenly shown up in the middle of Route 80. An appearance that was very, very sudden, as if he’d appeared out of thin air.
Clark stared a moment at the horrific scene, then jogged to the wreck. Lana was laying face-up on the ground, her delicate features marred by the deep gashes caused by the shattering glass. Clark ran his hands along her body; the body that was still warm, right down to the blood that poured out and stained Lana’s periwinkle silk dress suit. Clark’s own hands’ and suit were stained with crimson bloodshed as he held the Love of His Life one last time.
“Lana, dead. No, my sweet, no. I’m so sorry. The one time it truly mattered and I couldn’t rescue you in time. Please, forgive me. This mess is entirely my fault! OH GOD IN HEAVEN, THERE HAS TO BE A WAY TO FIX THIS!!”
Clark felt a gentle tug at his arm. He resisted, and his Dad’s grasp became firmer, and more insistent. Jonathan Kent had been speeding down Route 80, barreling toward a meeting with Destiny, when he’d seen the accident site’s devastating tableaux. Nothing was more important to his father’s heart at that moment than his grieving son. Jonathan ran through the crowd of onlookers, and pulled his boy away from Lana. “There was nothing you could do.”
Clark cried tears of the wildest grief as his Father tightly embraced him. “Lana,” he cried and stared at her blood that literally was on his hands.
“She died protecting my secret. How could I have been so recklessly blind? How many times has Dad warned me that my actions have consequences, and how long have I known that the Lana would be hurt in consequence of knowing the truth about me? How could I have hurt her like this!?”
Clark broke free of his Dad’s strong, solacing grip. Neither Jonathan Kent nor God in Heaven could aid him now. There was only one all-mighty power that could possible right this hideous tragedy. “Jor-El.” Clark thought the name of his biological father as both fervent hope and bitter curse.
**********
The Fortress of Solitude’s towering crystal pillars surrounded him, and Clark screamed into the vast space, “How could you take her from me?”
Jor-El’s tone, as always, was frigid, and lifeless like the Arctic Tundra where the Fortress was located. “Human life is fragile, my son. You knew a life would be exchanged for yours.”
“Don’t make her pay for my mistake!” Clark pleaded. “If I hadn’t told her the truth about me, she’ still be alive.”
Clark came to the reason why he’d sought out Jor-El’s aid. “You have to let me fix it.”
“Your powers on Earth may seem extraordinary, Kal-El, but we are not gods.”
Clark hung his head, shaking it. He was certain that for all of Jor-El’s ruthless arrogance, his biological father would have quite a different opinion.
“THIS WAS NOT HER DESTINY!! YOU KNOW THAT!!! There has to be a way. There has to be a way to fix this! Please.”
“There is one trial you have yet to experience, but you must heed my warning. The tide of fate is impossible to stop. Even if you alter one course of events, the universe will find a balance. There is only one crystal.”
Clark looked at the Crystal Council and a gleaming, oblong shape hovered toward him.
“Once you make this choice, there is no second chance. Decide carefully,” Jor-El warned.
Clark barely heard the warning. He stared, mesmerized, at the crystal. “I have to save her,” he muttered. Clark walked to the Council, grabbed the Crystal, and blinding sparks flew…

[#7superherofan]

Okay, there's the first post. Nothing new, but I hoped you liked it. Please leave comments, any sort of feedback woild be greatly appreciated as this is my first experience with fiction writing. I'll probably post more in about a week.

[LetMeGo]

A very nice start!

[ClanaGirl]

hey i wasnt confident either exactly i nmy ability to write my Clana forever story but i know you can do it this is great! a very nice start as LetMeGo said. me and him will comment everytime on this keep it up its wonderful

[#7superherofan]

Thanks for the feedback, LetMeGo and ClanaGirl. I'm very much enjoying Deciding Destiny and Clana Forever, so I really hope you'll like my story as well. I think the next post will be a little earlier than next Monday, probably this Thursday morning or afternoon.

[#7superherofan]

Reliving the Day I: The Afternoon
Chapter 1: A Moment Redone
Winter had arrived in that tiny farm community know as Smallville, Kansas and the Kent family homestead, at 410 Hickory Lane, looked the picture of cozy serenity. The house and outbuildings were blanketed with snow, their yellow and brown hues contrasting sweetly with the pure white.
Clark looked around, confused. The Fortress of Solitude had vanished, and he was back at his personal fortress in the barn loft. He was perched on the table’s edge, his right hand clutched a lump of coal. All the details were the same from that morning, right down to the red t-shirt and blue work jacket he’d worn.“It worked, I’m back in time. What’s the time? Okay, it's just a little past eleven-thirty. That means I have just a little over eleven hours to fix the mistakes that lead to…”
“I brought gloves and a scarf, like you said.”
There was only one person who could speak the simplest of phrases with the most angelic of voices. Clark turned in surprise, not quite able to believe he’d actually heard her, that Lana was really there. The memory of her lying dead in his arm was still fresh and grievous, so the sight of Lana alive made Clark feel like he saw her for the first time.
“ You’re here,” Clark said, and hugged his girl like he’d never let her go.
“Of course I’m here, Clark,” Lana chuckled, wondering why he seemed so relieved. Clark held her for just a moment longer, rested his head on Lana's, savored the floral scent of her silken hair. “I’m just not sure a mystery date is what our relationship needs right now”, Lana observed when Clark had released her.
Clark felt the smile slide from his face. “Mystery date? Oh, right. This is it, my one chance to alter the future.” Clark felt choked by the decision he had to make. Lana was warm, alive, and he’d sacrifice anything to keep her that way, but she was not going to be pleased with what he had to say.
“So where are you taking me?” She asked, and then thought, “Okay, I’m upset and nervous, but maybe I am also a little excited about this mystery date.”
Clark shrugged. “I just thought we could spend the day together.”
“That’s usually what happens when two people go out on a date. You said you had something important to tell me, that this would be a day I’ll never forget.” Lana clasped her hands, realizing as she said that just how excited she was.”We’ve been at this place in our relationship so many times, and I hate that he’s keeping secrets from me again. I love him so much and just want him to know that I want to be a part of his life. Maybe what he needed to tell me was that he trusts me and is ready to stop shutting me out.
Lana’s excitement died the minute she saw That Look on Clark’s face.

Chapter Two: Losing the Person You Love
Clark struggled so hard to his face set in that mild, calm expression, the expression he always wore when he had to pretend that he was telling Lana the truth. “That important thing I had to tell you…um, right. Well, know that I think about it, it was no big deal, trust me. For our date, um, well, I thought we could go for a drive, maybe up to the lake, but with this cold snap we’re having the bridges are probably iced over so we should just stay here.”
She’d stopped listening after the first lie about how he’d had nothing important to tell her. All the whiney, weak excuse that followed only served to increase the already impassible emotional distance between them. Lana knew now, as never before, that she loved Clark with all her heart. She had to love and want only him because only when he destroyed her heart did she feel that the rest of her existence was crumbling to pieces.
Lana turned her back to Clark, for she’d be damned if he’s witness the tears pooling in her eyes. Anger was quick to replace her heartache, anger that had as its source the most disgusted contempt. “What kind of messed up creep builds up my hope and trust, and then willingly destroys them with his pathetic lies? HOW DARE HE SCREW AROUND WITH MY EMOTIONS LIKE THIS, AND WHY DO I LET HIM?!”
Lana’s icy contempt was all too evident to Clark when he placed a hand on her shoulder and she deigned to glare at him. Clark couldn’t believe this was happening, but he should’ve known it would.
“Lana is alive, and I will sacrifice anything to keep her that way. How could I not have seen that her love for me would be a part of that sacrifice? Our relationship has been headed into the rocks for weeks, and telling Lana my secret was the one way I had to keep her. Now that I have to break her heart with another lie, I’m still going to wind up losing her.”
“Lana,” Clark whispered through trembling lips, “I’m sorr…”
“Clark,” she interrupted quite, quite harshly, “Don’t you know, haven’t you learned by know, I can always tell when you’re lying to me. You don’t want to trust me with the truth, fine, I don’t care anymore. But I’m not going to stay here and listen to anymore of your lies. So if there really wasn’t anything important that you had to tell me, I have much better things I can be doing than wasting time with you. In fact, I think it will be much better if I just don’t waste any more time on you at all.”
Clark closed his eyes for one minute, and contemplated. He could so easily just scoop her up in his arms, and hurriedly transport her to some secluded haven. She would be safe, and he would be free to reveal to her his true self, his powers, and the full, complete depth of his love for her. A darker vision immediately destroyed his paradise, for Clark knew that he’d never be free, not of Jor-El’s endless threats. Somehow that omnipotent hand would find them, and Clark knew that he’d again have to hold Lana’s lifeless body in his arms.
“I can’t tell her, ever. I just wish there was a way she could understand why I have my secrets, that I’m only trying to protect her.”
“Lana,” he feebly began, “I don’t know how to explain…I mean… I want to …but, I’ll only…it would just make everything worse.”
Lana scoffed at Clark’s ridiculous stammering. “What could be worse than losing the person you claim to love? ‘Cause believe me, Clark, if you don’t tell me the truth, right this minute, you will lose me.”

[SleepingBeauty]

I already love this story the first chapter was really sweet and the seconde chapter was good too
so update soon please :D

[LetMeGo]

I feel bad for Clark but knowing the truth isn't what killed her. That episode was so frustrating! I'm looking forward to reading more!

[#7superherofan]

I already love this story the first chapter was really sweet and the seconde chapter was good too
so update soon please :D I'm glad you found my, Sleeping Beauty, and thanks for the feedback. I'll probably won't be able to update until Sunday around noon 'cause I have to work all weekend, but you might catch a break if I get too impatient before then.:o


Oh, and you're absolutely right, LetMeGo, Lana's death in "Reckoning" was due far more to Lex's stupid, dangerous obsession than to anything Clark did to her. That dear, dumb boy just couldn't see it though, and that's why the episode was so very frusterating.:mad:

[ClanaGirl]

this is great but Lana saying that she doesn't want Clark anymore this is getting good. Now please don't make him just have 12 years of training and come back superman that would not be the best choice. but terrifc ppms that boy is so stupid and I agree #7superherofan

[#7superherofan]

this is great but Lana saying that she doesn't want Clark anymore this is getting good. Now please don't make him just have 12 years of training and come back superman that would not be the best choice. but terrifc ppms that boy is so stupid and I agree #7superherofan Thanks for keeping up with the story, ClanaGirl. And don't worry, for though I can't exactly promise happy
Clark/Lana times in the next few updates, the FOS and Jor-El will most definately not be putting in an appearence for quite a while, if ever again. There'll be more on Sunday.:D

[ClanaGirl]

thanks i will always read your stories no matter what #7superherofan its what friends do

[#7superherofan]

ClanaGirl, that was so sweet of you.:) Here's the update.
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Chapter Three: Moment s of Choice and Change
Clark knew Lana was completely sincere, as he knew their separation might be the only way to ensure Lana’s survival. His head could accept what needed to be done. “It’s the better way, and I have to choose this sacrifice.” His heart spoke a different message, however, and with one passionate impulse it ruled all other parts of his being.
“We just need to hold her, one last time,” his arms begged and encompassed her petite frame.
“Just one more last lingering kiss, please,” pleaded his lips, and savored the sweet kiss that they stole.
“One last look” whispered his eyes, and tried to memorize her angelic features through the tears that blinded them.
Lana had resisted to the best of her ability the feel of Clark’s powerful, yet always gentle arms around her. Her icy heart wasn’t nearly cold enough to deny the fervent longing of his kiss, nor to disregard the tears that fell on her head when he nestled his cheek upon her silky hair. She laid her head upon Clark’s chest and could feel that his heart matched the rhythm of her own. This passionate scene was such an unexpected moment of change that all Lana’s head and heart could do was to scream, “Why? Why, if he loves me so much, is it so hard for him to just be with me? Why does he constantly act like there is always some impassible barrier between us?”
“Clark,” Lana repeated in much milder tones,” what could be worse than losing the person you love?”
“Lana, I know, better than you think I might, that there is nothing worse than to lose the person you love. So even though I can’t take you on our date, and you have every right to be furious about that, please, don’t go.”
She gave her chin an imperious lift, and tried to glare at him with a remnant of her former frostiness. “You’re right; I do have every right to be furious. Can you give me one good reason why I should stay, if it’s not to hear the truth?”
“The truth? I need you to stay because I can’t lose you like this and I can’t lose you today. Please, spend the rest of today with me, whatever you do, don’t leave my side. I promise you that when all this is over, uh, I mean tomorrow, I’ll try to explain what I can. If you’re not satisfied with my explanation, and never speak to me again, I’ll understand. I just need one more day with you, and a chance to fix what I’ve done.”
Lana could only stare up at him, utterly mystified. “Confusing, vague explanations, typical Clark behavior, it’s absurd for me to even think about staying. I do know, though, when Clark is less than truthful with me, and in spite of his behavior, I know a part of him is completely sincere.”
His sincerity and the Love that Lana felt in return, combated with every instinct that screamed for her to run away. “I can’t believe I’m doing this” she muttered, then looked him dead in the eye. “Tomorrow, you had better have one hell of an explanation!”
----------------------------------------------------
This was kind of short , I'll post more tonight.

[#7superherofan]

Okay, that was way too short. The chapters seem much bigger on my Word Processor, but the font size seems to change or something when I post the story. Weird. Does anyone know why that might be? So here's a little more, and I'll still post some tonight.
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Chapter Four: A Good, Old Fashioned, Red, White, and Blue Election Day
THE crisp mid –winter air nipped the noses, but couldn’t cool the excited spirits of the good citizens of Smallville, KA. The anticipation that hung in the air was normally reserved for Smallville High’s homecoming games; people’s levels of tension hadn’t been so high since the last time meteors had rained hellfire on the town. A victory was anticipated on this day, one that would be far more important than the Crows’ winning the championship. The pent up tension caused by the anticipation was already sweeping over the town with an explosion more volatile than the meteor showers. The day was January 22, 2006, and it marked the end of a long political campaign that had both separated and united the town’s people as nothing before had done. This Election Day would determine which of the two contenders for state senate, Jonathan Kent or Lex Luthor, would emerge triumphant in the town they both claimed as their home.
Smallville’s downtown district, such as it was, was comprised of old brick buildings that were an endearing tribute to the town’s Americana charm. The various business owners were an even mix of how the whole town felt about its two senator hopefuls- some seemed to believe that their small town’s ideals were firmly represented by Jonathan Kent, while a more progressive group was firmly sold on the forward thinking strategies of young Luthor. Signs and campaign slogans were proudly displayed in store windows, some of these signs had emblazed across them, “Bringing Kansas Back- Kent for State Senate- Jan, 2006.” The place this poster was most prominently exhibited was at the old theater turned coffee house, the Talon. There was some hesitancy about the sign, the building was a Luthor Corp Business, after all, but it was also the residence of Lois Lane, campaign manager extra-ordinary to Jonathan Kent. The Talon’s old movie theater projection room had been renovated a few years ago into a small upstairs apartment which in turn had become campaign headquarters. Lois Lane, eldest daughter of three star General Sam Lane, hadn’t left her apartment for the past twenty-four hours as she feverishly coordinated last minute battle details. Her troops were out in full force; canvassing door to door, dialing telephones, and brandishing homemade placards on street corners. Their objective- to entice the electorate of Smallville to vote Jonathan Kent to victory.
“Smith, what’s the latest from the polls. Oh, come on, you got to give me something.” Lois pleaded a moment more with her contact, and then hung up. “Thanks for a load of nothing,” she snapped at it, and then turned her attention back to the talk show on the radio. The early afternoon loudmouth host was discussing the Election Day, particularly the massive turn out of voters already reported from the tiny, insignificant Lowell County District. His guests were two political science professors; one from Met. U, the other was from Central Kansas. All three were hotly debating the respective merits and failings between the solid-valued, small town bred All-American farmer, and the undeniable charisma, leadership, and deep pockets of the billionaire businessman.

The dry voice of the Met U. professor challenged his opponent with clipped tones: “Honestly Jamestone, what argument can you possibly have to support a rough necked, good ol’ boy like Jonathan Kent being elected to represent this state? Lex Luthor was born to lead, and just look at his qualifications…”
Lois snapped off the radio, but answered the challenge. “Oh, I’ve seen his qualifications. He’s crooked. He’s a criminal. Most important he’s a silver spooned, forked tongued, spoiled rich skunk!”
Lois paused and realized she was ranting to an empty headquarters. Her loyal staff had realized that the boss’ nerves were even more on edge than usual, and were busying themselves elsewhere. Lois knew that was probably for the best. Her tight schedule for the day just didn’t include time for patching up the feelings she’d hurt, or profuse apologizes about biting someone’s head off. Literally. Five minutes with a cigarette might’ve helped take the edge off, but there was no way that was going to be the answer. Lois thought longingly of the double chocolate cupcakes buried atop her kitchen shelf.

“UMM! That sounds good. I promise I’ll have the cupcakes, and soothing cup of tea, just as soon as I make sure that the decorating committee hasn’t gone overboard with the red, white, and blue crepe paper.”
“Oh no,” Lois thought as she headed down the spiral staircase to the Talon’s lower level coffee shop. It’s like I’m walking into an American flag.”
The decorating committee’s zealous excitement had perhaps made them go a bit primary color crazy as they transformed the Talon into celebration headquarters. Balloons of red, white, and blue were being inflated and drifted haphazardly about the room. Some of the balloons had printed across them the slogan “Bringing Kansas Back Jan ‘06”. Crepe paper hangings adorned the banisters, tables and counters while a more sophisticated felt bunting was flaunted from the windows. Their colors were of course red, white, and blue, in tribute to the Old Glory that flew freely in the brisk breeze outside on the Talon’s front wall. The coffee house tables were covered in navy blue linens and the centerpiece on each one was a white vase that contained a single red rose. The finishing touch was the buckets that contained the red, white, and blue confetti that would be thrown with great joy when Mr. Kent of course claimed victory over Lex Luthor.
Lois surveyed the room with her cynical, unsentimental eye. “Ugh. It’s so corny, it’s so Cherry Pie Sweet, it’s…” Her thoughts were put on hold as Lois regarded the volunteers who had so generously donated their time and efforts not just to decorate for the Victory party, but who had stood behind her since she had become Mr. Kent’s campaign manager. They were the loyal, hard-working, good hearted souls that she had come to know and care for since she had moved to the hamlet town almost two years ago. “The room looks perfect,” Lois thought as she inspected the room with a much more appreciative gaze.

[LetMeGo]

Great update! I'm looking forward to how this will all shake out... I'm hoping it'll be a lot different than the show. ;)

As for the font size you can adjust that by using size tags like... size=3 (or whatever number you want, depending on how big you want it to be) and /size you'll need to use the brackets [ ] of course. :)

[#7superherofan]

[Chapter Five: Lana’s Had Enough, or the chapter where originally she was going to smear chocolate frosting on Clark’s head.
The Talon’s festive décor matched the lighthearted, anticipatory mood of the dozen or so volunteers on the decorating committee. Martha Kent had been put in charge and her heart swelled at the sight of her beloved friends and neighbors who had shown such solidarity to her husband during his hurried campaign. There was a spirit of true neighborly comaderie in the room, and Martha was enjoying this stress free moment. At least she would have been if not for the two young people who were twirling crepe in the corner.
Martha was a little surprised to see Clark and Lana there. Clark was uniquely helpless in the arts and crafts department, and though Lana had promised to drop by, it wasn’t supposed to have been until later in the afternoon.
“Not until after Clark had taken her out on a date.” Martha remembered. “Oh dear, something must have gone terribly wrong. I know my Clark, and he’s upset. And Lana looks… that girl is just not happy.”
Martha could not have been more correct. Only her son was unhappy and his girlfriend was upset. No. She was more than upset. In the past two hours since she had agreed to spend the day with Clark, Lana had moved from upset to irate, from disappointed to dejected. Martha had assigned Lana to crepe paper twirling detail, knowing that the girl’s nimble fingers could create beauty in the crinkly decorations. Clark had volunteered for the task of holding the three rolls of paper while Lana braided them or twisted some parts into rose shape clusters. Neither of the occupations required much mental occupation, and Clark had attempted to make the time pass quickly with small talk. He’d failed spectacularly, his broken heart much too heavy to engage in light chatter. Lana had shot down each feeble attempt anyway, for her own saddened heart and dark thoughts held her complete attention.
“I’m so glad that I had the decorating committee as an excuse to leave the farm, because I couldn’t take one second more alone with Clark. He seemed absolutely hesitant to come, and was only willing to leave when I threatened to go without him. I should’ve just done that, walked out even when he begged me not to leave. Why didn’t I, it so would’ve served him right. WHAT IS WRONG WITH HIM? NO! WHAT’S WRONG WITH ME THAT I’M ALWAYS CAUGHT SO OFF GUARD WHEN CLARK TREATS ME BADLY?!UUGGHH!!!
I don’t know what I was expecting from him, but I was at least hoping after all that begging that Clark would at least try to salvage something of our date. A drive up to iced over Crater Lake would have been preferable to the forty-five minutes we spent vegging on the couch, watching the last part of that ridiculous old black and white on HBO. It could’ve been fun in a sappy romantic way, except that Clark barely paid any attention to it. The only time was when Zorro killed the villain to save his Lady Fair and I teasingly asked Clark if he would ever do that for me. He looked absolutely horrified, kind of hung his head, and muttered ‘No I couldn’t.’ Hah! As if Clark Kent could ever have the passionate emotions of those old time movie heroes- the courage to fight for justice against an evil tyrant, or the ardor to make love to the woman he truly adores.
Oh boy, love making. Would it have been too much for Clark to have kissed me or held my hand, anything instead of just sitting there? More than likely for Clark’s hardly been a Mr. Can’t Keep His Hands off of Me lately. He never really was that type, though. Even this summer he was so cautious when we’d …NO!! WHATEVER YOU DO, GIRL, DON’T START THINKING ABOUT THIS SUMMER. GOD, I JUST DON’T GET IT!! I so wanted my Clark from this summer, my sweet gentle lover, to be the true Clark Kent, the one behind all the secrets and lies. Lately he’s completely reverted back to his old self, only worse, ‘cause I’m starting to believe I don’t know him at all anymore. When am I going to realize enough is too much, and just finally accept the fact that he’s not the one? What is there about him that makes me unable to just walk, no run, away?”
Lana shot a quick glance at the object of her ranting thoughts, and shook her head impatiently. Clark was sitting, chin in hand, staring at the back wall. He seemed to be talking to himself, and his free hand was shredding what was left of the rolls of crepe. Lana knew that crepe twirling wasn’t the most fascinating of occupations, but was there really something in the Talon’s faux-Egyptian décor that held Clark so spellbound?
Lana was not aware, of course, that Clark wasn’t held rapt by the wall, but by the memories that played out in front of his eyes. He was reliving what had been for him the previous day, searching desperately for the one moment where Lana could’ve been told his secret, yet still have been safe from Lex and Jor-El. The musings came to an end when Clark realized how futile they were. He sighed, and checked his watch for the hundredth time since twelve o’clock.
“Okay, we’ve made it to one-thirty. There’s just little over nine and a half hours to go before she’s safe, before she’s…No, you can’t think beyond that. Just think about what you have to do to ensure her safety. You have to only think about that, ‘cause if you think about her leaving, alive but still walking away from you forever, you’ll want to do anything to make her stay. You know you’ll want to do what you can’t, what you must not. Lana can’t know, Lana Can’t Know, JUST KEEP REMEMBERING, LANA CAN’T KNOW!!”]

[#7superherofan]

Great update! I'm looking forward to how this will all shake out... I'm hoping it'll be a lot different than the show. ;)

As for the font size you can adjust that by using size tags like... size=3 (or whatever number you want, depending on how big you want it to be) and /size you'll need to use the brackets [ ] of course. :) I hope you like the update, LetMeGo. Thanks for the help with the font size, any suggestions on how to get my paragraph beginnings to indent?:o

[LetMeGo]

No problem. I really enjoyed the update! As far as paragraphs go, I just use block paragraphs with a space between them.

[#7superherofan]

[Clark repeated his heart shattering mantra a few dozen, hundred, thousand times more, and then, as was his common practice, buried his truest feelings and desires in the deepest recesses of his soul. He still had nine hours with Lana, five hundred and forty minutes to give her some happiness on their last day together. Clark smiled up at Lana, and received a frosty, Arctic glare in return. He had a sudden feeling that giving Lana one last day of happiness might prove to be a rather difficult task.
“Done with those,” she snapped, and snatched the ruined remnants of crepe paper from his hands. Clark looked at the rolls in surprise. “Oh, um, I’m sorry. Guess I wasn’t paying attention.”
Lana had to seriously resist the urge to chuck the rolls at Clark’s thick skull. “Well as that’s the last of the paper, I guess that means we’re done.” Lana handed her decorations to those in charge of hanging them up, while Clark cleaned up their working area. The moment he was done, Lana took a deep breath, and marched back to him, her chin held high.
“Clark, we’re finished, and I’m really ready to leave.”
“All right. Let’s go.”
“No, you don’t understand. Either I leave and you can stay here, or I leave and you can go back to the farm, or whatever. The point is, I’m leaving, and I’m absolutely insisting that you not come with me.”
“What, no. Wait, there’s still nine hours… I mean, that is… you promised me you wouldn’t leave me today.”
“UGH! AS IF YOU’RE ONE TO TALK ABOUT KEEPING PROMISES!” The whole room glanced up at Lana’s screeching tone, and though she didn’t much care, Lana dropped her voice to an appropriate level. “It was a mistake to promise that, Clark. I can’t deal with this, with us, for another minute, let alone for another nine hours. If there was some story that you had to convince me to stay, you’d better come up with it know, ‘cause I refuse to wait till tomorrow for whatever weak, whiney excuse you’ll try to convince me is the truth.”
“Lana, I want to tell you. I just can’t yet, not without telling you that … that … other thing that …I can’t tell you. And unless I tell you that, there’s no way you’ll ever believe what I want to explain.”
Clark realized in one baffling moment that yet again his head was having a rather difficult time figuring out how to do what his heart demanded. His already shattered spirit was crushed into a thousand more pieces when Clark realized that he’d lost any chance of explaining to Lana why he’d needed to break their date.
“What was I going to say? Lana, I had our break our date to make sure you weren’t killed ‘cause I told you my super secret? My biological father had put a death sentence on someone I love, and you were the one chosen? The reason you’re not dead is ‘cause a crystal from Kryptonian technology in the Arctic let me turn back time? Yeah, I can just see that happening. This is so bad. There’s no way I can give Lana the explanation that I promised. What I have to tell her defies all Nature and Normalcy, and tomorrow it will still be just as inexplicable. She has no desire to stick around that long anyway, and right now I have no way to prove to her that my impossible explanation wouldn’t just be another lie…WAIT A MINUTE, THOUGH. It won’t be right now, but I do have a way to convince her. I wanted to do this anyway, but didn’t think I could without leaving Lana. I can just take her with me, if she’ll come. Oh, she has to, this has to work.”
Only ten minutes had passed since the last time that Clark had glanced at his watch. There was still plenty of time to carry out his plan, since this part of his pre-lived day hadn’t happened until closer to four- thirty. He grinned as sheer relief flooded him.
“Lana, I did promise you I’d explain. You have no reason to trust me, but if you’ll come with me now, I promise you’ll find out why I had to break our date.”
Lana stared at Clark, mystified. His brooding, baffled demeanor had changed in a moment, and she wondered what had caused the alteration. The change piqued her curiosity, and though giving in to him was unthinkable, some instinct demanded that she do so.
“I can’t believe I’m doing this, but all right. What place are we going to that has the magical properties to make Clark Kent tell me the truth?
“We’re going to Metropolis.”
“Metropolis. You mean, the big city I traveled two and a half hours from just so I could have my heart broken when yet again you decided you’d rather be locked up in your own little shell than let me be a part of your life. There is no way I am driving all that way just so you can get some pathetic kicks by making me look like a complete fool for trusting you again. The only reason I’m going is so I can know, after you do that to me, that this relationship is completely over.”]
-------------------------------------------------------
Hey guys, hope you like the update. If I get some feedback between now and tonight I might double post. If there's too much angst for you, just hang on, things will get better for our hero and his lady.:D

[LetMeGo]

That was good! Can't wait to see what Clark is going to tell her.

[#7superherofan]

[Chapter 6: Musical Memories for a Long Ride
A two and a half hour car ride can be hard enough to endure, yet Clark Kent and Lana Lang took their trip on that frozen, mid-January day under particularly unbearable circumstances. Genuine heartache made the miles stretch endlessly, as did outrage, frustration, and the attempt by both parties to pointedly ignore the other.
Lana hadn’t said a word to Clark as she’d stalked out of the Talon, climbed into his pickup truck, and slammed the door while muttering something about a two and a half hour trip to hell. Clark was simply too grateful she’d agreed to come along in the first place to be annoyed by her ungracious behavior. He also knew he could hardly blame her for hating him.
“You’ll be gone out of my life soon enough, Lana. Till then, oh, I just wish you could know how much faster we could make this trip. How much more enjoyable it could be as well.”
Remembering how much his attempts at small talk had failed, Clark switched on the radio to make the time go by. He turned the dial to the station that broadcasted from Central Kansas. Lana loved that station’s venue of classic orchestral music, and Clark hoped that the soothing tunes would help her relax.An ethereal note full of mirth and light wafted through the airways, a note that could have announced the rosy hues of a gently breaking dawn. Clark recognized the inimitable opening movement of “The Blue Danube,” waltz and he smiled the briefest of smiles as the song unfurled for him a most pleasant memory.
It had been about five months previously, August 12th to be exact, that the Metropolis Philharmonic Symphony had given a free concert to celebrate the end of its summer season. The date had just happened to coincide with Clark Kent and Lana Lang’s three month anniversary, and Lana had decided that it was the perfect opportunity to expose her flannel wearing, corn feed boyfriend to a little much needed culture. Clark had gotten to moan for all of a half second before he was assailed by the all-conquering combination of Lana’s pouting lips, her pleading eyes…her follow up kiss of gratitude. It was a good chance for the young couple to get out of the Smallville city limits, and have one last special night before Clark began CKU the following week.
The concert had been held in Mid-Town Plaza, the orchestra had performed in a charmingly old-fashioned white pillared gazebo that was located on an island in the middle of Swan Lake. The night’s show case was the great classical composers of 19th century Vienna, highlighting the opuses of the Strauss family. Clark had been not completely bored by the experience, had even found the stately marches and romping polkas rather toe tapping and hummable. He’d never before listened to Johann Strauss Jr.’s tribute to the Danube, Europe’s great river, except when it was spoofed on old Loony Tunes cartoons. That night as the orchestra’s instruments of wind, string, and brass performed the work in its entirety Clark had closed his eyes and pictured a grand ball where he and Lana impressed the assembled royal guests with their elegant waltz. The tune had captured his heart entirely; its regal yet playful airs seemed to match Lana’s essence and spirit.
After the concert was over the young couple had lain on their blanket and gazed in wonder at the bright stars that shone down upon that perfect summer night. Lana had fallen asleep with her head on Clark’s shoulder as they’d driven home, and had only woken when they’d reached the farm. Lana had pretended to resist, but had been all to ready to agree with Clark that she was too tired to drive back to the Talon, and should spend the night at his house. Lana had had stayed over, stayed in Clark’s bed as they finished their night of romance with a moment of passion extreme.
The memory had taken only a brief few seconds to play out in Clark’s mind, and by the time ten more seconds of the song had played, Clark wished he’d kept the radio off. That night, that perfect night of music, stars, and passion, was from the happiest time of his life, when for once he’d just been a normal guy who had finally won the heart of the girl he adored. There were more memories that the song evoked and those follow-ups were not so pleasant.
“Waking up the next morning and just gazing into her eyes, so full of warm life and tender happiness. Our consternation when we realized the time, trying to be all furtive and help Lana tiptoe out, Dad’s anger and disappointment when he caught us. All I had to do was look into his eyes to know exactly what he was thinking. He believed that yet again I’d rushed into a decision without thinking about the consequences, again shown I wasn’t ready to take care of myself, to make responsible, adult decisions. The only way I could prove myself to him was if I stopped Gabriel Duncan’s threat, and…it’s not like I was exactly cautious and careful there, using Chloe to trick Gabriel into telling which silo the missal was in. If only I had it differently, if I hadn’t gotten shot, that summer night wouldn’t have been the last time I could openly share with Lana my complete love for her. I hope I never here that song again…I hope Lana can relax to it though.

Clark risked a smile at Lana, saw her reach for the radio and, thinking she wanted to turn the song up, was a bit surprised when she impatiently jabbed the Search button instead. “The Blue Danube” faded into static as Lana meet Clark’s smile with a steady glare that gave new meaning to the trite term “If Looks Could Kill.”]

[LetMeGo]

Loved the update! What a sweet memory... I always wondered how they ended up in bed at the Kent house! ;)

[#7superherofan]

[
Chapter Seven: A Song, A Spat, And A Lot Of Silence
“I am two short hours away from banishing Clark Kent from my life; he is so not expecting me to listen to That Song. I’ve put up with a lot today, but for him make me relive those memories, memories of my happiest time with him, has to be classified as intolerable cruelty. Oh, why is every station at a stupid commercial break?!”
Lana continued to press the Search button with far more force than at all necessary, and Clark decided to rescue the poor object by simply selecting a station present button at random. It was of course also at a commercial. Clark rolled his eyes with a sigh, while Lana sat back, folded her arms with a huff. Neither one really cared what station was on, until the commercial for Hungry Al’s Meat Market in Granville ended and a song began at last. Clark and Lana realized too late that the station he’d selected was one of their “couple stations” the very one that that had serenaded them on the drive home that long ago August night. It was an easy listening station that played all those sappy songs that can maybe really only be understood by romantic lovers. The current song was James Blunt’s “You’re Beautiful”, and Clark and Lana froze when they recognized the song that had accompanied their earlier encounter in the loft.
My life is brilliant
My life is brilliant
My love is pure.
I saw an angel, of that I’m sure.
She smiled at me on the subway
She was with another man
But I won 't lose any sleep on that
'Cos I've got a plan.
You're Beautiful
You're Beautiful
You're Beautiful, it's true.
I saw your face in a crowded place
And I don't know what to do
'Cos I'll never be with you.
Yeah, she caught my eye my eye
As I walked on by
She could see from my face that
I was flying high
And I don't think that I'll see her again but
We shared a moment that will last to the end.
You're Beautiful
You're Beautiful
You're Beautiful, it's true.
I saw your face in a crowded place
And I don't know what to do
'Cos I'll never be with you.
Da da dum da
Da da dum da
Da da dum da, yeah
You're Beautiful
You're Beautiful
You're Beautiful, it's true.
There must be an angel with a smile on her face
When she thought up that I should be with you
But it's time to face the truth
I will never be with you.


The last note of the final heart rendering lyric faded, and before the next could begin, Clark and Lana both reached for the “Off” button. His right hand brushed against her left hand, a hand where a perfect diamond solitaire was all too absent. Clark instinctively caressed her hand, and it trembled a moment in his before Lana began to withdraw it. Clark tried to tighten his grip, but Lana snatched her hand away so quickly it was as if Clark’s touch had burned her.
“Don’t do that.” She snapped.
“I won’t then,” Clark snapped back, and placed both hands firmly on the steering wheel. “Happy now?” He muttered. It wasn’t low enough, and the first hint of temper that Clark had displayed all day only served to exacerbate Lana’s.
“Happy?! Clark Kent, do you honestly think that there has there been one thing that you’ve done all day that's made me even remotely happy? You dragged me out to Smallville for a date, luring me with some promise of a 'day I’ll never forget'. Then, though you promptly called the date off the moment I got there, you still begged me to 'give you one last chance.' Now you’re dragging me off to Metropolis for god knows what reason and I can only trust that you’ll tell me the truth when we arrive. I’m not exactly in the mood to act all lovey- dovey with you over some sentimental, sloppy love song on the radio. Now as you are the one that’s been completely responsible for our relationship getting to this point in the first place, I really, really don’t think that you have any right to be angry with me about that.”
“Lana I’m not angry. I –I mean not at you, at least. I couldn’t be, 'cause I do know how difficult and frustrating today has been for you.”
“How could you possible know…?”
“I know, trust me, ‘cause it’s been equally if not more difficult and frustrating for me too. I didn’t know that today would be like this, I didn’t want it to be like this, and maybe if I’d know it would be so hard for you I-I wouldn't have asked you to stay.”
Clark’s voice had dropped to a mere whisper and the utter sadness conveyed in his gentler tones seemed to affect Lana’s voice when she softly whispered, “Why did you then?”
“Because I wanted to tell…I mean I owed you an explanation. One that I do promise you’ll receive when we get to the city. In the meantime, as hard as this day has been for both of us, I’m trying to make it as pleasant as I can for you. It’s not that easy, and you’re not exactly… I mean…” Clark sighed. Lana huffed in response.
“Oh, say it. Not exactly playing the part of your sweet little Princess am I? Do you think I like acting like this? Do you think I like my heart being so bruised and empty inside that I don’t mind feeling angry just so that I can feel something? I don’t like where we are, Clark, and believe me I’d much rather be feeling what I used to feel around you, when we could be close to each other…AND THAT'S NOT WHAT I MEANT!!!” Lana swatted away the hand that Clark had timidly offered.
“Lana, come on, I’m just asking you to hold my hand. Are you so angry that it’s impossible for us…?
She interrupted him with a bitter laugh. “Oh, I’m not angry, Clark,” her tone indicating that she in fact felt much, much more again, “ It’s just a little hard for me to get excited about holding your hand when for the past few weeks I have had to all but beg you for the slightest physical contact. You’ve been the one that’s avoided my touch like the plague, remember and I’ve had to just get used to the fact that you prefer there to be lots of physical and emotional space between us.”
Oh how he remembered- all the where’s, when’s and most importantly, what Lana no longer could, the whys. Clark’s fingers beat out an impatient tattoo on the steering wheel, his mouth clamped shut in a grim line. It wasn’t that he was angry, he just knew that if he opened his mouth for one instant he’d tell her everything he shouldn’t, starting with the reason why he’d been so cold and unresponsive to her advances lately. “I could barely explain to Lana when she knew my secret how complicated this issue is for me, and I can’t begin to now without revealing, well pretty much everything. I’m not even sure, if I did reveal everything, that Lana’s reaction would be the same anymore. She’s so furious that it might just be too late. It wouldn’t matter that I’m really just this freak alien, Lana just might not want to accept me at all anymore. And yet she did once, so willingly, all of my strangeness, the changes that have come upon our relationship. She could again…if only… Clark’s fingers increased their agitated beat as he reviewed the reason why that was one big IF ONLY.
“I’ve been so busy feeling sorry for myself today or worrying about Lana that I hadn’t realized I'm also completely infuriated. Once again I’m hopelessly trapped in some Web of Fate and not just because of my own actions. Lex, that bald headed SOB that I used to call my best friend had to be so freaking obsessed with my freaking secrets that he was responsible for my fiancé e's death. Not to mention Jor-El, that damned artificial intelligence, that pathetic remnant of a biological father, who has such control issues that he not only thinks he has the right to interfere in my life, but can also claim the life of someone I love as payment for bringing me back from the dead. Which never would have happened except that I have been hands down the World’s Biggest Complete and Utter Moron for the past three years, whose one true extraordinary talent seems to be the ability to destroy everything good in his life with the most foolish of careless mistakes.” Unable to risk speech, Clark’s thoughts became preoccupied with a ring around the rosy game of mental curses, first Lex, then Jor-El, than himself. Lex, Jor-El, himself, Lex, Jor-El, himself…
Lana noted Clark's all too obvious irritation, and believing that it was directed toward her, Lana’s inner fury notched even higher, settling well above the boiling point. “How dare he act like this argument is my fault, when I didn’t even want to come on this trip with him? He’s the one that throughout this whole mess of a day has insisted that I stay with him, and I… I…I just stupidly gave in to him. Maybe this isn’t his entire fault. I could’ve said no to him, walked away so easily at any moment of this day. So why didn’t I?”Lana had to debate with herself for a full half a second before she could admit why. “It’s ’cause I love him. And no matter his issues, I know, Oh God I have to believe that he loves me. He can lie to me about so many stupid details, he can run from my touch, but I look in his eyes and I can see he’s telling the truth about that. I think that’s why I agreed to come with him when he promised me an explanation. A part of me would be willing to follow Clark to the ends of the earth one the smallest chance that he’ll look at me with Love shining out of his eyes and tell me he's ready to explain the reason for his strange behavior lately. I could believe anything he said, and all I want is the chance to throw my arms around him, and say that I Love Him so much he should never have hesitated to tell me, ‘cause nothing could possible change the way I feel. I wonder what would happen if I did that now? If I apologized for being angry and rude all day?”
Lana looked over at Clark, softly called him name, once, twice, and then no more. Clark had ignored her completely as he stared out onto the road, his hands locked like vises onto the steering wheel. He was lost in his own painful reflections, and even with super hearing it had taken awhile for his overworked brain to register that Lana had addressed him.
“Hmm. Was she saying some… no. She’s not talking to me.”
Lana’s arms were folded tight across her stomach, and she was turned as far away from Clark as the truck’s bench seat would allow. Torn between apologizing to Clark and telling him off for ignoring her, Lana had decided to just ignore him in turn. Not so easy for her to ignore, however were the hot tears of shame and rage that pricked against her eyelids. Clark didn’t know what else to do but ignore the two solitary drops that escaped her eyes, and matched the ones in his own eyes. ]

[LetMeGo]

They're both so sad. I hope Clark comes clean with her! I wonder what he plans on telling her once they get to Metropolis.

Can't wait for more! :)

[#7superherofan]

Didn't have to wait too long, LetMeGo.;) Thanks for following along, and I hope you enjoy the next chapter.
[Chapter 8: Trust Me? Maybe, Maybe Not
All in all a trip through Dante’s seven circles of Hell would’ve been slightly more pleasant to Clark and Lana. By the time that Clark pulled alongside the curb outside the Daily Planet, the icy tension in the car could’ve given frostbite to the outside temps.
Clark took a deep breath and reviewed all that he knew would be occurring once he got inside the Planet. There was exactly seven minutes before show time, and he still had to convince Lana to accompany him. One glance at the look on her face was proof that he had his work cut out for him.
Lana’s gaze swept over the Daily Planet building, from the revolving doors that lead into the Art Deco styled lobby to the ringed orb atop the building that gleamed golden even in the dim sun. She turned back to Clark with an incredulous stare. “Here! The place that you needed to bring me before you could tell me the truth was the Daily Planet! Somewhere along the road I’d begun to hope that you’d change your mind and would just drop me off at my dorm room, but it’s obviously time to play 'How Many Stupid Lies Can Clark Feed Lana, Round 500.' Okay, I’ll start, Clark, what’s here at the Daily Planet that could possibly explain the reason you broke our date”
Clark took a deep, steadying breath. He could do this, it had to work. “ Lana what would you think if I told…I mean how would you react if I said that I know what the rest of today will be like. That I sort of pre-lived it, and I can predict certain events that will occur between now and eleven p.m. tonight.”
“How would I react? I jump out of this car and I march back to Met. U., thankful for every inch of distance between me and some guy who is either the BIGGEST CREEP I’VE EVER MEET, OR IS JUST INSANE!!!” Lana started to reach fro the door, but Clark reached for her hand.
“I can prove this, Lana. All I need is five minutes in there. What’s the harm in that?”
“Besides knowing I was crazy enough to throw away five more minutes of my life to you…” Lana was shaking by now, and she put her head down in her hands for a moment to regain control and make her decision.
Clark didn’t have a moment though. He eyed the time nervously and knew he had to leave then or he wouldn’t make it to Chloe on time. It was over, time to let Lana go. He started to leave, but first he leaned over, held her in his arms, and placed the softest, most lingering of farewell kisses upon the cheek of his one Love. “You’ve been the only one I’ve ever loved. Goodbye, Lana,” he murmured tenderly, and exited the car.
“Wait, what just happened here- he loves me, kisses me, then he leaves me. Oh god, oh no, don't tell me that was the chance I've dreamed of, my one chance to have Clark trust me with the truth, and be able to accept him, 'cause I wasted it. His story was beyond implausible, but...”
Lana jumped out of the car, and caught up to Clark right outside the Planet’s revolving doors. He was very surprised to see her, but she could see that he looked very relived about it too. “Just five minutes, and I promise you’ll get your answers, Lana.” He said as they walked into the lobby. “Thank you for trusting me.”
She sighed, shrugged her shoulders. “You’re excuse are never that great, but you've had all morning and afternoon to come up with one and all you had for me was some pre-lived day craziness. Maybe it just means that I’m the crazy one, but here’s hoping…” She said, and put her hand into his.
********************
Clark and Lana rode the elevator down to the Daily Planet’s basement, the starting point where obscure journalists and photographers dreamed of glory as the typed up want ads and posted obituary pictures.
“Okay there’s Chloe,” Clark said, indicating the blonde reporter who stood by the coffee server, pouring coffee and cream into a large mug. “Proof number one, Lana. The first thing that Chloe will say is ‘Hi Clark, nice surprise. If I’d known that you would be breezing by, I’d have ordered a double whip latte from the Talon.”
Lana had just a moment to ponder that confusing statement as she and Clark walked over to Chloe. “Why would Chloe ask for coffee from the Talon, Clark? It’d be stone cold before…
“Hey you two lovebirds, this is a surprise. Lana, didn’t you say this morning that Clark had some mystery date planned?”
An indistinguishable combination of a hiss, a sob, and a laugh escaped Lana as Clark heard Chloe’s altered greeting with an unmistakable horror. “I am such a complete and utter fool. Of course that had to be different. With Lana here, Chloe would never even joke that I could insta-deliver her a caffeine fix. What am I going to do?”]
P.S. Starting countdown till some of the sweet Clark/Lana momentsthat you may have been waiting for. 5 to go, including this one.:)

[LetMeGo]

That last part cracked me up, even if it was sad for Clark. Looks like this isn't going to go as smoothly as he'd hoped! Hopefully she'll stick around long enough for him to point out things their presence doesn’t effect play out around them. If not, maybe Clark has altered things enough that she won't end up at Lex's later.

[ClanaGirl]

This

[ClanaGirl]

This is muc hbetter sorry I couldn't post yet but I am now and ready great job I love this story! But please don't let Clark let Lana go we all couldn't stand that. you're doing great I promise to foolow along now

[#7superherofan]

That last part cracked me up, even if it was sad for Clark. Looks like this isn't going to go as smoothly as he'd hoped! Hopefully she'll stick around long enough for him to point out things their presence doesn’t effect play out around them. If not, maybe Clark has altered things enough that she won't end up at Lex's later.

Thanks for the Positive feedback, LetMeGo, I'm glad you liked the snag Clark hit with Chloe.:D

[#7superherofan]

This is muc hbetter sorry I couldn't post yet but I am now and ready great job I love this story! But please don't let Clark let Lana go we all couldn't stand that. you're doing great I promise to foolow along now

Welcome back, ClanaGirl, thanks for the words of encouragement.:D Don't worry about Clark and Lana, I promise most of the angst is past and soon there'll be some sweetness. Update on Thursday, possible 2x.

[#7superherofan]

[
Chapter 9: Changes to the Day, At the Planet
“Lana,” Clark started to beg, but she just shook her head, pulled her hand out of his, and started to walk away. Clark could only watch her go, knowing that he’d never again feel the touch of Lana’s delicate hand against his skin. He realized also that because he’d lost his chance with Lana, it was absolutely imperative that he convince Chloe of the truth. Clark turned back to his best friend, who stared at him with a most questioning look.
“Chloe, I need you to just go along, and listen to me for a minute. Ready to put on your Wall of Weird Hat?” Clark lowered his voice. “I’ve already lived this day. I turned back time.”
“Yeah, how’d you do that, spin back the earth on its axis?” Chloe challenged teasingly.
“Even she doesn’t believe me, and this is Chloe I’m talking to. Why did I ever expect to convince Lana?” Determined to vindicate himself, Clark took Chloe’s arm and ushered her toward the stairs. “Chloe,” he said to her softly, “you know better than anyone that sometimes you just have to trust me. I can prove this if you’ll come with me.”
He didn’t have to ask her twice for Chloe did know him. They hurried down the stairs, and Lana watched them go with utter disbelief. “I overheard Clark mention the Wall of Weird. How dare he use Chloe’s weakness to rope her into believing his cock and bull story! I can’t believe that even Chloe would fall for this one though. Why is she going along?”
More desperate than ever for any explanation to all of the strange, inexplicable happenings of the day, Lana followed the other two at a distance. Clark’s heart filled with relief when he noted her; he’d been given yet other second chance. He noted something else that caused his heart to soar, for right on schedule a delivery boy touting a large bouquet passed them on the stairs.
“See these flowers,” Clark began as he followed the delivery boy and the lavish display of red, pink, and white roses into the news room. “This delivery boy is going to hand them to this secretary.”
“Margaret?” Chloe scoffed. “She’s a workaholic. She hasn’t had a date in like a year…”
Chloe and Lana stared in wonder as Margaret received the flowers and threw her arms around the uniformed messenger of Love. While her delighted squeals filled the newsroom, Lana tried to convince herself that Clark had set up that whole scene. But how, why? Lana forced herself to listen as Clark continued his game.
“And your boss is firing someone right now. The guys gonna storm out, yell ‘You can’t fire me; I quit’, throw down his press pass, and…”
“YOU CAN’T FIRE ME!! I QUIT!!”
Lana and Chloe’s mouths were agape as the ex-employee did indeed throw down his press pass and exit the newsroom. The phone rang on Chloe’s desk, but Clark’s voice stopped her from answering it. His tone had became nonchalant, like he knew he’d convinced them and this amazing demonstration was beginning to bore him.
“Don’t bother, it’s a wrong number. Chinese takeout.”
Lana grabbed the phone before Chloe “Hello. No, this isn’t… no, we don’t have egg rolls.”
The other party hung up to continue his quest for Egg FooYoung and Spinach Egg Rolls. Lana didn’t hang up, but just stood staring at the phone in her hand as if she’d never really seen one before, and all her reality lay in between its speaker and mouthpiece. She couldn’t bring herself to look at Clark, and barely registered him begging her not to leave without him. It was only minutes later that she realized he was even gone. Chloe had hustled him away into an adjoining conference room, and the two of them now appeared to be in deep in earnest conversation. Lana Lang once again found herself alone on the outside.]

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This update was a little short, so tomorrow night's will be a bit longer. Only four more updates, including this one, till some Clark/Lana sweetness.:D

[LetMeGo]

She didn't leave!! :) Maybe she'll be a little more willing to listen to Clark now but being left out of Clark and Chloe's conversation has to sting. I hope he ends up telling her everything before the night is over!

[#7superherofan]

Thanks for the feedback, LetMeGo.
[ Chapter 10: Exposition with Chloe,or this is just explaining stuff you’ve already read.
Clark was unresisting as Chloe practically dragged him into the conference room. He’d obviously convinced her and now she wanted to talk. He’d been longing for this all day, in need of his best friend’s sympathy and support.
“All right, McFly,” she demanded. “Do you want to start with how or why?”
“It’s Jor-El. He let me turn back time with one of the crystals from the Fortress. I have one chance to try to change all my mistakes.”
“Mistakes? What mistakes?”
“The first time I lived today I told Lana the truth about me and I asked her to marry me.”
“Wha-Wha-What’d she say?” Chloe managed to stutter.
“Yes.” Clark said simply. “She said yes.”
“WHa-Wha-What was my reaction?”
“A lot like that. You were pretty happy for us as well, though.”
“Well of course, Clark. I mean, Lana not only accept you, but your proposal too, all in the same day. It’s like your every daydream brought to reality. What happened that could make any of those wonderful events mistakes that you have to take back?”
Clark sat down on the edge of the conference room table. He sat defeated, with stooped shoulders, as all the tragic events came crashing down upon him. He closed his eyes and ran his fingers through his hair. “I saw my daydreams turn into my nightmares, Chlo. Lana went to go see Lex later that night and he figured out she knew my secret. He was chasing her down Rt. 80, and even though she called me for help, I didn’t get there in time. There was this bus, and it hit her, and…and I ...I couldn’t…all I could do was hold what was left…this bloody mess that I’d made.”
Clark’s words tumbled out in his haste to be rid of them, and his voice was taut with the painful images forever burned into his memory. Chloe sniffed, blinked her eyes rapidly, and gave her best guy friend a comforting hug as he relived his own personal horror show.
“So Jor-El to let you turn back time in order to save Lana. Well that’s the second time he and that Ice Palace have been needed to save a life. Never thought I’d say it, but thanks for Jor-El.”
Chloe had to rethink her last statement a moment later when Clark gazed upon her with an intensely dark glare. “Thanks for Jor-El”, he mocked. “Chloe, it’s ultimately because of him that any of this happened. You know about his threat from this summer, that someone I love is going to die.”
“So when Lana…she was one he took.”
Clark nodded grimly. “I had to beg him for this second chance, and even though he finally did, he warned me that if wasn’t Lana’s life that was taken, it would be somebody else’s. That cold hearted monster doesn’t care who it might be, just so long as I feel the pain of their death.” Clark rubbed his forehead with the palm of his hands as the monstrosity of his decision hit him for the first time. “It was wrong, but what else could I do, Chloe? Lana has already suffered so much because of me, and I couldn’t let her be killed just because I’d made the stupid, careless decision to tell her my stupid secret at the worst possible moment.”
“You don’t have to defend yourself to me, Clark. I wouldn’t wish that decision on my worst enemy. Is that second threat the reason why you didn’t retell Lana your secret? I’m assuming you didn’t given the way she practically ran from you back at the elevators.”
“No! And I’m not going to. Chloe, telling Lana about me was the worst mistake of my life. She knew who for half a day who I really am, and Lex found out. That's what I've always feared the most about telling her- she'd be hurt and I couldn't prevent it. I cannot risk that happening again, not today, not with Jor-El’s threat.” More frustrated than he’d been all day, Clark increased his grip upon the table’s edge, making Chloe suddenly hope that his super strength was firmly in check.
“Okay, so she doesn’t know, and you’re obviously less than happy with that change of events. I understand the danger behind Jor-El’s threat, but maybe in spite of him, this time change doesn’t have to be such a bad thing. I mean, why should you have to be so miserable just because of his pathetic need to play God Almighty? It’ll be okay, Clark. Lana can still know your secret, and this time you know to warn her about Lex.”
“ Chloe, have you lost your mind?!” He hadn’t meant to bit her head off completely and Clark retracted under Chloe’s wounded look. “I’m so sorry, Chlo. Thanks for trying to help, but you pep talk isn't going to work this time. I've had all day to think about this situation, and I just don't see a way I can tell Lana without compromising her safety It’s not just Jor-El or Lex that I fear, either. As long as she and I are together anyone who finds out about me will be watching her every move. What could I do to prevent that, lock her up in some ivory tower just to keep her safe? No. The day I retell Lana the truth is the day I relive this one, the day I got her killed.” Clark shuddered and held his hands in his head. “I have to break it off with her.”]
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Just three more updates till some sweet Clark and Lana.:D

[LetMeGo]

There are times when I wish someone would smack some sense into Clark! I'm really enjoying your story!

[ClanaGirl]

I agree LetMeGo its definitely makes some sense to smack sense into Clark.

[#7superherofan]

The decision is unanimous, it's time someone slapped a little sense it Clark Kent's brain. If you're waiting eagerly for that to happen, ClanaGirl and LetMeGo, I think you'll like Chloe in the next update.;) I should be posting it on Saturday night instead of Sunday 'cause I have to work.:(Happy Independence Day to both of you, that is if it's a national holiday for you, not sure what country is your home, but just have a great day anyway.:D:D Thanks again for the feedbacks.

[ClanaGirl]

Thanks I appraciate it and I promise to read all your stories by tommorow I should have updated and the Justice League party is in action with a little surprise like the comment you had mentioned of what bart said. Wonderful posts I am so eager for the next one keep it up.

[#7superherofan]

Penultimate update before some Clark/Lana sweetness.:D



[ Chapter 11: Enough Drama, Trauma
and Lies
“Whoa, there big fella. What did you just say?”
“Lana and I are finished, Chloe,” he restated.
Chloe looked into his eyes and knew any pain she’d seen there previously was nothing compared to what she saw now.
“Clark, stop and think about this. This is Lana you’re talking about here, you know Crush since Kindergarten, Girl Next Door, One True Love of Your Life, Lana Lang. You and she are like meant to be together, Kansas’ own Ken and Barbie, Mickey and Minnie, Romeo and Jul…Never mind that one. The point is that you could never leave Lana.”
“Chloe I have to, otherwise all I’ll ever do is hurt her myself. You know what our relationship has been like these past few weeks…”
“Yeah,” she cut in. “Drama, trauma, and lies ‘cause you’re afraid to tell Lana the truth. I told you when you got your powers back that telling Lana was the only way to save your relationship, and you didn’t listen. Now I’m stuck in the middle, unable to do anything but watch my two dearest friends suffer needlessly. I can’t just listen and comfort this time, chum, ‘cause I don’t think you have a clue about where you’re heading with this whole break up nonsense. I mean, what are you going to do- just tell Lana it’s over completely out of the blue, say that your feelings have changed, you’ve met someone else. Clark, you and Lana have been together for almost six month now, you’ve gone all the way that you can, and the reason your relationship is falling apart isn’t just because of your secrets, it’s that Lana knows you’re keeping them from her again. She’s not stupid, and if you break up with her now, she won't have any reason to think it was 'cause you were protecting her; she’ll believe it was because you choose your secrets over your relationship with her. You won't even be protecting Lana if you treat her like that, Clark, because she’ll be crushed beyond devastation. Do you really want to hurt her like that?”
“I’ve already done it, though Chloe,” Clark explained the moment his best friend had finished her tirade. “Lana and I are already done. You weren’t there this morning when I had to practically beg her to come on some never to be forgotten ‘Mystery Date.’ You didn’t see the look of complete loathing in her eyes when I had to break it, and her anger at the elevators was nothing compared to what I’ve had to put up with all day. Lana already hates me.”
“Maybe, but if that’s the case, why is she here now? Why did you let her know that you’ve got previews of coming attractions?”
Clark stared at his shoes. “I didn’t have the guts to lose her twice in one day, so I asked her to not leave me today. Now that I think about it, that decision may have been the one good choice that I’ve made today. Lana could still be the one Jor-EL decides to take, and how can I possible protect her unless I’m with her. She wouldn’t stay with me though, unless I explained why I had to break our date. I brought her here ‘cause it was the only place that I could prove that I wasn’t completely insane.”
Chloe nodded, and kind of smirked. “Well, I’d say you convinced her. That was quite the performance, Nostradamus. Are you going to tell Lana that your magic crystal ball showed you that she needs to stay away from Lex?”
“No, that wouldn’t do any good, and I’d probably just scare her. I’m hoping that I can prevent her from going to see him in the first place, but it shouldn’t really matter. There’s no reason for Lex to threaten Lana, it’s not like she knows anything.”
Chloe gave her friend another hug, wishing she could ease away the bitter darkness in his eyes. “Okay, so you’re sticking to Lana like flypaper to ensure fate doesn’t get a second chance.”Where and when did the accident take place so we can make sure Lana’s a million miles away from it?”
“The accident was at 11:02, on Rt 80, just past the Loeb bridge. A problem I’m having about keeping Lana away from there is that I don’t know exactly when she goes to see Lex. It’d have to be before 10:30, but after my Dad wins the election and…”
“Clark, wait. Did you just say that your know that your Dad wins the election?”
“Yeah, he did, he will. And that’s when I’m going to need a second pair of eyes tonight, Chloe. See Lois will drag me and my parents take some family photos and I won’t be able to see if…”
“Lana hi. Come in. I was just discussing with Clark, um... ”
“Sorry to leave you out there for so long, Lana. Chloe was just asking me about, um… if I could make a prediction about tonight’s election,” Clark finished lamely, then added hesitantly. “I didn't notice you come in. Have you been standing there long?” “Hopefully not to long,” Clark thought. How much of our conversation did she overhear?”
Lana had opened the door just in time to hear Clark say something about Lois’ family photos, and to see how quickly Chloe had changed the subject when she’d walked through the door. Lana looked at the other’s oh too guiltless faces, their oh too innocent smiles, and she cringed at their oh too blatant cover-up. “What is going on here today? What could Clark possible be able to tell Chloe that he believes has to be kept shielded from me, and why would she help him lie?”]

[LetMeGo]

You tell him Chloe! Too bad he's so stubborn. Poor Lana, she's left to wonder why Clark won't confide in her. It's got to hurt to see that your boyfriend is closer to another woman than he is to you.

PPMS

[#7superherofan]

You tell him Chloe! Too bad he's so stubborn. Poor Lana, she's left to wonder why Clark won't confide in her. It's got to hurt to see that your boyfriend is closer to another woman than he is to you.

PPMS
What great feedback, LetMeGo, thanks.:) I was actually so focused on how Lana would react to Clark in this scene that I never gave much thought to how it might affect her relationship with Chloe. You've given me an idea for a future scene between them, that's awesome.:DNext update coming your way.

[#7superherofan]

[Clark could see the gathering tempest that sparked and flashed in Lana's eyes, and he braced himself for the onslaught of questions that he now had to answer. Several long seconds past however, and the only sound that filled the room was a very awkward silence as the three best friends simply stood and looked at each other. Clark didn’t know how to begin to say what he had to, and preferred to not be in a building full of reporters while he tried to further explain to Lana his impossible story. Lana knew exactly what she wanted to say to Clark and Chloe- that she refused to be on the outside any longer, and was demanding that both of them stop treating her as if she was some helpless, untrustworthy little doll that they had to watch over- she’d just found herself unable to express it. The confusing and painful events of the past few hours had so emotionally drained her that any leftover feeling had all the force of a wet marshmallow. The only feeling strong enough to make an impression on her heart anymore was a growing sensation of shameful chagrin. “How can I demand Clark tell me the truth after the way I’ve treated him all day. His behavior has been incomprehensible to the point of confounding, but there really has been a reason for his insanity!! This means that there really hasn’t been a reason for my dramatic trauma, and he’s put up with it.
Chloe was the first to break the silence, but only because she realized her presence was merely adding to the tension that already existed between Clark and Lana. She excused herself, claiming a cooling cup of coffee was calling out to her. Before she exited, however, she threw her arms around Lana in a comforting hug, and glared at Clark as if to say “I’m warning you to think twice about what you’re thinking, pal.” She left the room, wishing she could just knock some sense into both of them.
Left alone with Clark, but not hesitant to look him in the eye, Lana sank into an office chair and contemplated the floor with her chin in her hands. Clark sat in the chair next to hers, kind of hunched over while he nervously rubbed his hands together. “So, did I convince you?”
Lana pressed her hand against her forehead, but nodded. “You were telling the truth out in the car.
“Yep.”
“Oh. Okay. And that has something to do with why you broke our date this morning.”
“Correct.”
“So when you said at the Talon that there was a reason for your behavior, you weren’t just stringing me along?
“Nope.”
She wondered if her next question might force him to give her an answer that was at least in the form of a sentence. “And the reason why you let me treat you terrible all day and never once even came close to telling me to go to hell was because…?
“Because I’d never say that to you, Lana!” Clark reached for his girl’s hand, picked it up to comfort her, but then remembered the sad fiasco in the car. He started to let go, but Lana murmured “Don’t do that, please,”and even extended her other hand so that it her fingers brushed against his. He savored the feel of the small, soft skinned hand that rested inside his larger one, and wondered how something so delicate and light could seem to pierce through his invulnerable flesh and bone, sending an electric charge right to the heart of his being.
“I know you never would.” Lana admitted after a minute, a minute in which she’d closed her eyes and wondered why her heart raced with joy simply because after everything she’d put him through, this boy was still willing to hold her hand in his. “Please forgive me for saying all the things that I said earlier in the car. You’re not insane or a creep.
“Of course I’ll forgive you. That is only if you’ll forgive me for putting you through such a confusing, hurtful day that you became angry enough to say what you did. This day has been hell for both of us, Lana, I’ve just understood why. I know you must still have a lot of questions, and I did promise to explain what I could. Do you mind if we go first?”
“I don’t mind, Clark. It’ll be quite willingly this time.” Lana smiled at Clark as he opened conference room door, and thought,“To the ends of the earth if need be.” They left the Daily Planet as they’d entered, hand in hand.]
How was the sweetness at the end? There'll be a little more sweet Clark/Lana and some questions and answers in the next few updates.;)

[LetMeGo]

The sweetness was great! Finally they're getting somewhere... looking forward to more sweetness and more answers for Lana!


What great feedback, LetMeGo, thanks.:) I was actually so focused on how Lana would react to Clark in this scene that I never gave much thought to how it might affect her relationship with Chloe. You've given me an idea for a future scene between them, that's awesome.:DNext update coming your way.

Anytime! ;) Thanks for writing this great story!

[ClanaGirl]

Me too LetMeGo this story is terrific can't wait for more sweetness to ocme and tons more Clark answering Lana's questions and maybe a proposal too!

[#7superherofan]

Thanks for the feedback, ClanaGirl and LetMeGo. Hope you like the updates when you get back from your vacations.:D


[Section II: The Sunset Hours

Chapter 1: An Explanation of What, but Not So Much Why or How

Clark glanced at the pick-up trucks clock. The time was just a little after five, only six more hours to go. Clark tried to stem the tide of his thought process, but found it impossible.

“By all rights its five-fifteen of the day after this and Lana and I have been engaged for twenty-four hours. We should be at the farm, holding each other as close as we can get, or better still on that date I had planned out. God, it would have been so special, Lana would have had so much fun, and could have seen that I didn’t completely lose my sense of romance when I got my powers back. Oh, my abilities, we didn’t even get a chance for me to show off to her a bit, tell her about the times I’ve ‘been there and she never knew.’ She never will now, I guess.”

Clark took a deep breath, and forced his mind back to the here and now. He doubted if he could ever describe to Lana the happiness that they had once shared, but he was determined to explain to her all that she deserved to know. He risked another glance in her direction, and wondered if she was ready to hear what he had to say.


Lana had seemed receptive to Clark when they gotten into the car and had even smiled a little when he’d stolen a small kiss. She’d hadn’t said a word though in the forty-five or so that they’d been driving, but just looked pensively out the window as the Metropolis skyline disappeared behind them and the flat Kansas landscape loomed in front of them. She might have every so often glanced at Clark surreptitiously, but he couldn’t be sure because he was only giving her the most covert of glimpses. Their eyes finally met by chance and both broke out into sheepish smiles.

“Lana, would you believe me if I said that the last thing I could see when I woke up this morning was that today would become so crazy?”

His tone was very earnest, but Lana almost felt like giggling. “Um, I don’t know. Didn’t you say that clairvoyance was your specialty today?”

“Yeah, something like that. Lana, I promised you an explanation about the insanity that has been today, but can I ask a question first? If I answer all the whats you might have, could you wait 'til a little later before I explain the hows and whys? You will know more details, but right now those ones are just a little..”

Don’t tell me, they're complicated, right.” Lana sighed then shook her head. “Why is it always so hard to just talk to him? I have to this time, and listen to whatever he’ll say.” “I can wait for the explanation, Clark.” Lana muttered softly.“Could I ask you to promise me that your answers will be the truth?”

“Oh, come on. For once in my life could I please be able to that answer that question with a simple ‘yes’?” Clark reached over and gave Lana's shoulder a small squeeze.“Lana, all I can promise is that I will give you the most clear and honest explanation that I can. Hopefully, that will be enough.”

“Oh, come on. For once in our relationship couldn’t he please be able to answer that question with a simple ‘yes’?” Lana sighed, her hand reached over and removed Clark’s hand from where it rested on her shoulder. She looked at it a moment, seeming to consider what to do with it, then interlocked her petite fingers with his giant ones. “Okay. I’m ready to listen.”

“All right, here’s the story, Lana. Basically I sort of had a chance to pre-live today, and got to see would have been the end result if I had pursued a certain course of actions. I was in no way able to anticipate the consequences of my choices, and the outcome was so grim I couldn't let it become reality. I was given this one chance to alter my actions and prevent anyone from being harmed because of me.”
Lana’s eyes were round as saucers, and her face had the same look as when he’d taken her to the Fortress- stunned and a little unsure. “So you have to stop some tragedy from happening and that’s why you broke our date?”

“Nothing less than this could have made me do it, Lana.”

“Why couldn’t you’ve just explained this to me in the loft?”

“Because what I just told you is still such a mutilated, condensed version of the truth that it took me this long to just come up with it.” Clark thought with disgusted self-mockery. All he could say aloud was,“I wasn't sure how much I could tell you. I have to be so careful of every step I make today and if I'd said too much I might have jeopardized my chance to alter my mistakes.”

“There, not exactly a lie.” Clark thought with some relief, until he noted that his answer seemed to have increased Lana's uncertainty. He took a deep breath, which he let out slowly. “Lana it was also because of the look I see on your face now. I didn’t want to tell you ‘cause I knew this would scare you.”

“Yeah, I’m a little freaked out.” She admitted, but then scoffed. “Don’t worry about it though; it’s not that weird really. Time warping isn’t an unknown occurrence in Smallville after all. I only wish you could've told me, we might have avoided this whole day. I was so hurt when you broke our date, and with the distance that's been between us lately, it was just easier for me to believe that you were shutting me out again.” Lana’s hand left Clark’s and covered her mouth that had opened in pained shock. “Clark, I was so ready to give up on us that I would have just walked away if you hadn’t stopped me.”

“I know, and that’s why I asked you to stay. You deserved to know that there was more to the story, and I knew that if I let you go you never would’ve listened to anything I ever said again. You’d have hated me for the rest of your life.”

“No.” Lana placed her hand in Clark’s again, pressed it comfortingly. “I was plenty upset, but I don’t know that I hated you. I certainly don’t now. I'm sorry again for how awful I've been, you've clearly had enough on your plate without also having to deal with my temper tantrums. Thank you for not letting me leave, for opening up to me what's going on with you today.”
“You're welcome, Lana. Thanks for listening to even the little that I could explain. I only wish it could be so much more.

Lana spent several moments contemplating, while she traced circles onto the palm of Clark's hand. “Clark, um, you know, about the problems we've been having and the important thing you wanted to tell me on our date, well I know that for some reason you have a hard time sharing with me what's in your heart. You need to know however, that beyond a shadow of a doubt, you can tell me anything, whatever it is you have to, and I’ll listen. Even if you think I’ll be scared because you have to explain something unusual, wouldn’t it be better to maybe take a chance that I could be able to understand and accept what you have to say because I Love You?”

Clark found it difficult to watch the road, for the sudden hope that shown in Lana’s eyes drew him like a magnet. His secret was compelled to his lips, for he could fulfill her hope with the simple truth. How he knew she could accept the extraordinary secrets she’d find out about him. “I have had to gamble so much already today where Lana is concerned, how can I dare take a chance on this?” “Lana if I were to tell you…” he began, so unsure of how to continue.]

[ClanaGirl]

Yeah Clana is going to become Clana again finally he will explain it all. great job I love your story. exspecially this partNothing less than this could have made me do it, Lana.”

“Why couldn’t you’ve just explained this to me in the loft?”

“Because what I just told you is still such a mutilated, condensed version of the truth that it took me this long to just come up with it.” Clark thought with disgusted self-mockery. All he could say aloud was,“I wasn't sure how much I could tell you. I have to be so careful of every step I make today and if I'd said too much I might have jeopardized my chance to alter my mistakes.”
and then this one You need to know however, that beyond a shadow of a doubt, you can tell me anything, whatever it is you have to, and I’ll listen. Even if you think I’ll be scared because you have to explain something unusual, wouldn’t it be better to maybe take a chance that I could be able to understand and accept what you have to say because I Love You?”

Clark found it difficult to watch the road, for the sudden hope that shown in Lana’s eyes drew him like a magnet. His secret was compelled to his lips, for he could fulfill her hope with the simple truth. How he knew she could accept the extraordinary secrets she’d find out about him. “I have had to gamble so much already today where Lana is concerned, how can I dare take a chance on this?” “Lana if I were to tell you…” he began, so unsure of how to continue

please continue i love it

[#7superherofan]

ClanaGirl, thank you for the kind words in your feedback.:) I feel so honored that my story is touching your heart. The next update is coming up soon.;)

[#7superherofan]

Chapter 2: A Second Chance for Romance
Lana placed her hand on Clark’s mouth. “It’s okay,” she broke in, “you don’t have to tell me right now. Clark, do whatever you have to do today, I understand. Could you do me a favor for tomorrow, though, and pretend like today never happened. I’ll show up at the loft again in my parka and scarf, and you can take me on that date. You could share with me all the things that you didn’t get a chance to today, and everything can be like it was supposed to be for us.”
“That sounds perfect, but how can I tell Lana that our happiness possibly wouldn't last more than a few hours.” Clark thought, suddenly ashamed of his moment of weakness. I know I can't share with Lana what she wants me to share tomorrow, but maybe I can give her a moment of happiness right now.”“Lana, could you watch the sunset with me?”
She smiled happily. “We could definitely do that tomorrow.”
“No today’s, right now. We could pull over.”
Well, okay,” Lana said, but then started to laugh. “Watching an overcast sunset from a pickup truck parked on the side of the highway is too romantic a moment to pass up, I guess.”
Well, the moment should be happening a little different, but it'sall I can offer this time.”
“It was sweet of you to offer, and I shouldn’t have laughed. Let’s pull over.”
They sat for a while in silence, watching a sunset that contained all the hues of dreary slate gray sink behind the barren Kansas fields. Clark slipped his arms around Lana’s shoulder and waist, and slide her across the bench seat till she was cuddled right next to him. He held her in a tight, all encompassing embrace, rested his face against her cheek, and whispered into Lana’s ear, “I love you.”
Lana wondered how three words spoken so quietly could have the power to make her heart beat in overtime.“I love you too, Clark. My goodness, you are being the romantic right now. It’s been a long time since our last sunset.”
“Too long,” Clark agreed. “There have been better sunsets, but I couldn’t ignore the opportunity to share this moment with you again, or waste this second chance to hold you in my arms today.
Lana turned quickly in Clark’s arms and looked up at him in confusion. “Did you just say, ‘this opportunity to share this moment with you again…this second chance to hold you in my arms today’?”
Clark nodded, and reviewed the phrases himself, wondering what he could have said to make Lana so astonished.
“And before we pulled over,” Lana resumed, “you said ‘the moment should be happening a little different.’ Clark, is this like what happened at the Planet? Did you know that we’d watch the sunset together like this? Did you see it when you pre-lived the day?”
“Well, yes”, Clark had to assent. “The setting was different, we were…” Clark clammed up, unsure how much more he should say. Lana had stared dazed at him for another minute, then turned to gaze out the windshield with eyes that were wide even for her. “Oh boy, that’s not what I was talking about when I mentioned second chances and ignored opportunities. I was only surprised about it, 'cause I didn’t expect to relive this moment at all. This is bad. Lana is either freaking out, or is going to start putting some pieces together if I can’t stop her.”
Clark tried to think of away to distract her, but Lana turned back to him with a smile on her face. “I just accepted the pre-lived day as one of those weird incidences that happen to us. Huh, it never occurred to me that that I was a part of what you experienced.”
Clark re-tightened his grip on Lana. He closed his eyes, reviewed all that he’d lost for a minute, then gave Lana a kiss before he nestled her cheek with his nose. “You were the best part about it.”
“We watched the sunset together. That sounds so romantic, exactly how I pictured a ‘day I’ll never forget’ to end. Was it?”
This was what he'd been afraid she’d figure out. “Yeah, the time we spent together was pretty romantic.” Clark cringed, for judging by the expression on Lana's face, she' taken the evasiveness of his answer as a yes, and it had only served to deepen the questioning look in her eye. Lana slowly nodded her head and softly said, “Thanks. Clark, why...”
He had to do it, but he hated that he had to hold up his hand, motion for her to stop. “Lana, um, that why. Could it…um…maybe...?”
“Oh. Wait till later. Sure. I probably also shouldn’t ask why you didn’t at least tell me this part when you explained earlier?”
“Lana, to be completely honest, I wasn’t going to tell you at all. If I’d tried to explain, you might have found this too weird to enjoy, and I so wanted to give you this sunset hour.”
“I don’t find it weird, maybe just odd, but in a special kind of way. Thank you for asking me to share this with you again.”
It’s all I can share with you, unfortunately ‘cause even if I tried I couldn’t begin to describe how wonderful that day was, how right everything was between us. I’m sorry”, he added, noting that Lana was staring at the folded hands in her lap.
“It's all right. I’m just glad you mentioned that because I realize now that I can maybe wait for those answers, but I don’t want to have to wait anymore for everything to be right between us.” With one quick movement that contained all the certain confidence of a panther’s pounce, Lana entwined her arms around Clark’s neck, pulled his head down, and crushed his sweet, full lips against hers.
The clear desire of her warm, ready, and eager lips was for him to return that passionate kiss, return it for the length of eternity, but Clark broke away. He heard her painful gasp of bitter disappointment, and stroked his true love’s cheek in comfort while he looked into her eyes. Clark saw in those soft hazel orbs all the unfulfilled hunger and love that Lana saw reflected as she gazed into his blue-green eyes. Their longing ache and burning ardor refused to be denied a moment longer...
Lana had almost forgotten how Clark could kiss her, didn’t remember his lips compressing hers with such an intensely thrilling power. Even his hold was different; the bone crushing force of his inescapable arms left her literally breathless and she gasped for air as Clark’s sweet lingering kisses gave way to more urgent, ravenous ones.
Actually, Lana had forgotten entirely, had no memory of the details concerning a similar sunset she and Clark had shared in a “day that never was”. They'd sat in the barn loft, inseparable once engaged, sipped hot cocoa, and been wonderfully distracted while watching an unimpressive sunset. Clark had shared with his Little Love all that he dared to give, and in the moment when he had to explain why they could go no further, Lana had been able to accept what her Sweet Boy had to say. They'd clung to each other till it was time to leave for the victory party, neither one willing to use their lips and tongues for any other purpose than to share some expression of the phrase “I Love You.”]

[#7superherofan]

Chapter 3: One More Day-What happens now?
The cloud filled sky had transformed into a starless twilight, and the windows of the Dodge Ram had gotten rather steamy in the past half hour. Clark and Lana were cuddled together; his arms were woven tightly around the lithe body that sat upon his lap, and her head rested lightly on his chest. Silence reigned but not an uncomfortable one, as both lovers were content to sit and listen to the sound of the other one breathing in the still, quiet night.

“What happens now? Do we just stay here forever?” Clark finally murmured after another long moment.

“Why not?” Lana whispered back. “Would you like to listen to some music?”

“I’ve enjoyed the silence, but sure, let’s see what commercial is playing.”

They both smiled and simultaneously reached for the radio. Their hands brushed again and Lana wondered why Clark again caressed her left hand with such tenderness. The radio crackled, not many stations came through to these badlands, but Lana at last found one, a country station broadcasting from Metropolis. A soft ballad sounded through the speakers, and Clark’s heart echoed every note and lyric of Lonestar’s “One More Day.”
“Last night I had a crazy dream
A wish was granted just for me
It could be for anything.
I didn't ask for money, or a mansion in Malibu.
I simply wished for one more day with you.
Chorus
One more day
One more time
one more sunset, maybe I'd be satisfied.
But then again I know what it would do,
leave me wishing still for one more day with you.
First thing I'd do is pray for time to crawl
I'd unplug the telephone, keep the T.V. Off
I'd hold you every second, say a million 'I Love You's
That's what I'd do with one more day with you.
Chorus
One more day
One more time
One more sunset, maybe I'd be satisfied.
But then again I know what it would do,
leave me wishing still for one more day with you.

The last strain of music faded, and Clark switched the radio off.. His hand trembled as he did so, and for a moment he could only concentrate on how to keep the emotions that swirled and thundered in his heart from exploding out of him. He tried to take even, steadying breathes, ran his fingers through his hair, and then kissed the raven haired head that lay so near his heart. Lana could feel every beat, and wondered how it was possible that a human heart could pound with such tremendous fervor.

“Are you okay, Clark?” she asked, suddenly worried. She caressed his forehead, then each cheek, with her hand, and could see that old, all too familiar, “weight of the world” look settling into his eyes. Clark nodded, but still seemed very withdrawn.

“You seem upset all of a sudden. Is there anything you want to talk about?” Lana instantly regretted her question. “BLAST! Why did I ask that when I know perfectly well how much Clark shuns subjects like that or answers with a lie? Our moment will be ruined now!”

“I cannot ruin this moment,” was the resolute theme of Clark’s heart, and he smiled with a strange relief. He wasn’t certain, but he believed he’d found a way to avoid telling his secret, yet still speak openly to Lana about the truths buried in his heart.

“Yeah, Lana there is something I want to talk about. I love you, more than you probably think I do. I can’t thank you enough for watching this unromantic sunset with me.”
Lana smiled warmly. “You’re welcome. Thanks again for the invitation. Sharing this time with you has been the nicest surprise of this most surprising day.”

“To tell you the truth, it was a bit of a surprise to me as well.”

“Um, how could that be?” Lana snickered. “You knew this would happen.”

“Well, no, only that it had happened in the pre-lived day. When this whole time redo started, I knew everything that would occur if I didn’t change any of the day’s events. Whenever I do make an alteration, even the slightest one, what might have been gets lost in this gray area, and I can’t see how that change will turn out.”

“I was worried that he’d back away from me, but Clark actually seems to be opening up a bit. I’m so glad that he’s talking about this with me.”

Lana smiled encouragingly at Clark and brushed a hair away from his forehead. “Sounds to me like you got kind of gypped, Clark. A chance to see the future, and it’s still a mystery to you. That has to be frustrating.”

“Pretty scary too, since I can’t see if my new actions will affect that tragedy I have to prevent.” Clark’s brain demanded that he consider whether or not his current actions might lead to the consequences he so dreaded, but the all ruling pulse of his heart insisted that he take the chance.

“The hardest part about this day, Lana, has actually been not knowing how our day would turn out. I couldn’t take you on our date, I wasn’t sure at all if you’d stay with me, and I never expected we’d watch the sunset together again.” He smiled and buried his face in Lana’s hair. “I was so afraid that I could never describe how perfect our time together was before. It’s not the same, but maybe you can understand why I was so eager to relive this sweetest of moments.

Lana turned her head, and placed on Clark’s lips a soft, quick smooch. “I’ve enjoyed it too, Clark. It makes me really look forward to tomorrow night’s, at the end of a wonderful day ‘I never forget’.” That is, if you want, if you’d promise, to share it with me.”

Clark knew that Lana wasn’t only asking him to share with her a portion of the twenty-four hours of a day. He didn’t know how to answer her. Tomorrow, the next day, and for a hundred tomorrow’s to come his endless quantity of secrets might never again be revealed to Lana Lang, But for a hundred and one tomorrow’s he’d love her, and could only give her as honest an answer as he could.
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The rest of chapter three is continued in the next post

[ClanaGirl]

Yeah! go Clana that rocks please continue I will have my new update in an hour tops cpntinue this story is amazing.

[#7superherofan]

“Lana, please don’t ask me to promise anything for tomorrow. I’m just able to see to tonight, I don’t know anything that will happen after that. Something unforeseen could occur and I’d have to disappoint you with another broken promise. Lana, I can't bear to hurt you like that anymore, to see that look of complete anguish in your eyes. I saw it earlier in the loft and realized I had finally wreaked our relationship. It’s been so complicated lately, so many secrets and broken promises on my part, that I told myself letting you go was for the best. However, I realized just in time that I wasn't ready to say goodbye and...” Clark shrugged as if to say, 'You know the rest.'

“You asked me to stay,” Lana finished simply.

“Yeah, only there's something you need to know. When I asked you to stay it was because a part of me was dead certain that we'd never last beyond tomorrow, but there was no way I was able to lose you today. I was ready to let you walk out of my life, but first I needed, no, I wanted to have just one more day of happiness with you. When I asked for one more sunset, I only wanted to give you one last memory of our special time, maybe get the chance to hold you little for one last time. ”

“Clark, it sounds like your quoting the song. What do you mean, ‘one last day…one last memory'? What are you trying to say? Why would you have been so eager to believe that this would be our last day together!?”

“I didn't say eager, Lana,” Clark corrected, “only that I was certain of it. You see, for more reasons than I can make clear now, um, I couldn't begin to hope for tomorrow because I was too overwhelmed at how lucky I was just to have this one more day with you. Agreeing to not leave when you had the chance couldn't have been easy for you, Lana, especially given your anger and hurt, but I need to thank you for your decision though. I look back on this day, and I don't know how I would've survived it if you hadn't been by my side.

“ You would've been gone, and I'd have had to endure this day with the knowledge that it was probably forever. I would’ve missed every word you’ve said, even if all you were doing was yelling at me. You wouldn’t have demanded that I explain the truth of what’s going on today, and I wouldn’t have dared to trust that you could accept the little I’ve made clear. We wouldn’t have held hands while we watched an overcast sunset, I wouldn’t have seen it reflected in your eyes, and you most certainly wouldn’t have looked at me with love and longing. There wouldn’t have been this second chance to hold you in my arms, this unexpected opportunity to share with you all the passionate craving that I’ve had to keep buried in my heart.”

Clark paused, unsure if he should mention this. “I don't want to miss a second chance to tell you what I haven't known how to tell you before now. It might not seem like it, but I have missed being with you, Lana.”

“A second chance, huh.” Lana said with a smile. “Well, I can imagine how much I appreciated hearing you say that in your pre-lived day because you’ve been pulling away so much lately that I was starting to wonder if you did miss me. Clark, we didn’t exactly go all the way here, but it’s further than we’ve journeyed in months. Now it couldn't have been anything I did, cause I've been trying for weeks to reignite that spark in you, so what's so different about today that finally made you willing and able to let your guard down?”

"I’ve had to hazard so much today to be with you at all, and I've had to make choices that I could only gamble on what the outcome would be. When you kissed me, I had to decide in a moment whether or not I should turn from you again, or embrace this chance to hold you in my arms and feel the sweetness of your lips on mine. In a way it was an easy choice to make. My heart felt so much Love for you, the love that's been building up for all of these months, and I simply couldn't let moment pass me by. All the decisions I've made today concerning you have come from my heart, and I don't know what will the be the result for any of them, but no consequence matters to me more than the one I found in this sweetest of stolen moments.

“My heart now knows, more firmly than ever that you, Lana Lang, are a vital part of my life. In this half hour I've realized that tomorrow can't be the end for us, like I was so certain that it would be. If I ever lost you, be it today, tomorrow, or ever, my heart would lose the one person who is irrevocably etched into my essence, genuinely a part of my soul. To lose you now, to not fight for you with every strength I have, would be…well I’ve only had to suffer one moment when I’ve felt more frustratingly helpless and in pain.”

He’d opened his heart to her, in spades. Moved beyond tears by this reaffirmation of Love, Lana placed her hands on Clark’s cheeks, and leaned her forehead against his. “I don’t what to lose you either, Clark. I'm so glad that I didn't. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, for taking all those chances you were so hesitant to make, for choosing to love me rather than turn away. I can understand and accept what you had to tell me and I would've endured a thousand more crazy, painful, hurtful moments like we've gone through lately just to get to all of the sweetness and warmth that we've shared here .”

Clark placed his hands on Lana's cheeks, tenderly pulled her lips to his for a few moments. “Sweetness like yours, how could I help but take what you offered?”

“Hmmm” Lana's reply was a moan both of desire for even this most gentle of kisses from Clark, the and of appreciation for the warmth of his honey smooth voice, the delectable syrupiness in his words. She rested her head against Clark's again, and ran her hands up and down the arms that were were wrapped so securely, almost defensively around her waist.

“Clark,” she began after a few minutes, “as wonderful as it is to hear that you've rediscovered how much you want me in your life, and I'm just a excited for this second chance as you are, could you maybe clear up one detail that I'm still finding very confusing about all this?
"It's true I was furious when you had to change our plans earlier, and yes, you basically had to beg me not to leave, but the very fact that I did agree to stay with you must've shown that I was at least willing to listen to the answers you promised to give. Your explanation was admittedly fairly hard to swallow at first, but I realized that moment outside of the Planet that, like so much of today, I really had no other choice but to follow where you wanted me to go.”

“Could have fooled me for a minute there,” Clark said, trying to lessen the panic of that moment with a casual shrug.

“When you gave me that goodbye kiss, I realized that I'd chosen to have you leave me, and I guess I also found out in the nick of time that I wasn't ready to lose you today. I need you to understand that it was so much easier for me to believe any insane explanation you had rather than face the alternative of having to walk out of you life and away from your love. I had to, wanted to, believe that you felt the same, for there was no other reason why you'd ask me to stay with you. What I need you to help me understand is, if you wanted me in your life that much and were planning on telling me the truth in the first place,why were you so convinced that our romance was doomed past the twenty-four hour mark?”

[ClanaGirl]

I love it continue #7superherofan this is an awsome Clana story

[buddy232]

Just starting reading this!!!

An excellent fic and very well written...please continue.

Thanks for sharing your talent!

[LetMeGo]

Excellent updates! They’ve said a lot to each other but there is so much more to say. Hopefully Clark won’t sidestep her question.

PPMS!

[#7superherofan]

Excellent updates! They’ve said a lot to each other but there is so much more to say. Hopefully Clark won’t sidestep her question.

PPMS!

How true, LetMeGo, Clark and Lana do have so much more to say to each other, and there's so much more to come. By the time this first part of my story is finished I figure they'll have discussed at least 8/10th of what they needed to discuss at this point in their relationship. Now, if they'd actually been allowed to talk during the actual episode...:mad::(

Oh, note to everyone, it may be a week or so before I update here again. Sorry:(:(. I'm trying to get caught up on the Sweet site, and I'm still trying to work out the kinks in these next few updates.:rolleyes::confused: So after I've conferred each chapter with my beta I'll post as soon as possible. Thanks for your interest so far, and your patience.;)

Question for anyone who might know. I wasn't entirely satisfied with this last update when I posted, and I've done some rewriting, so is there a way I can edit it? There was an "edit" tab when I first posted, but it's gone. Can anyone help?:D

[LetMeGo]

I guess we can wait if we have to, I'm sure it'll be worth it. :D I'm looking forward to them talking through everything.

There should be an edit button at the bottom of your post next to the quote button. I hope that helps.

[#7superherofan]

Okay see it now, don't know how I missed it, guess I have spontanious blindness or something.:o:o:rolleyes: Thanks LetMeGo. :D I'll be working on the new posts as much as I can.

[#7superherofan]

Okay, so after weeks of having to wait patiently finally here's the next update. F.Y.I. though, I did a bit of rewriting the last two posts. Nothing major changed, but you might want to check them out.;):D
-----------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 4: A Love Worth Fighting For, If Only...

“I wonder how Lana would react if I told her how generous she was with the time she alloted to us, if I don't watch my step our relationship might be doomed past the five hour mark?”Clark thought with most bitter sarcasm.

He tried to keep that resentment out of his voice as he answered Lana, and all she heard was that familiar neutral tone Clark employed when he was most definitely trying to conceal his deepest emotions from her. “For so many reasons, Lana, that's a hard question for me to answer right now. NO, strike that, it's a hard question for me to answer, period. If I'm completely honest with myself, I've know that our relationship was doomed since I pulled away from you that night in your dorm room, before that even.”

“When you didn't want to make Love because you were suddenly afraid that you'd do something to mess up our relationship. Of course it was then that all our troubles seemed to re-start. Clark, I've tried, but I have no idea anymore how to convince you that, now that I'm yours, I'd never let you go so easily. My heart has been able to hang on tight through all this confusion and pain,'cause I love you, but I don't understand any this. Your sudden hesitancy and fear about our relationship was so unexpected and so strange because we've already successfully survived so much this past year. We were fine for months even after lethal gun shots, vampires, paranoia inducing meteor rocks, so what was the real reason you had for turning away from me?”

Lana wasn't certain, but she could've sworn that Clark muttered something about her being hurt. “What about my being hurt?”

Clark knew he couldn't begin to explain what he'd really meant and he searched his heart for the right words, hoping that the simple explanation he found there would contain enough of the truth.

“Lana the reason I hesitated, the only reason I've ever hesitated to be with you in any way, was that I fear you'll get hurt by being close to me. That concern for you isn't so new either, it's the way I've felt ever since I knew I loved you, or at least knew that loving you would be complicated for me. As we fall in love over the past few years that worry only increased asit become very obvious that I was going to have to fight battles, overcome countless obstacles before I could win your Love and know for sure that it was mine. The thought of those battles was so frightening because, while loving you has given my heart a strength more powerful than it's ever known, my greatest fear is that the Strength and Love it feels won't be powerful enough to triumph in the end.

“You can't know how intensely frustrating it is for me to feel that powerless. Sometimes though, it's just easier for me to believe that I am, and let you walk out of my life, rather than risk a fight to keep you that I'm certain to ultimately lose.”

Lana lifted Clark’s chin until their eyes met and she looked intently at him. “I don't understand why our loving each other should have to be a involve a battle, but if there is, Clark, fight for me please. If you will, I promise that I'll be right here fighting with you. That's all we need to know, and maybe its time that we figured out together once and for all just what our conflict is about. Do you even know, ‘cause I’m not semi-sure half the time that I do? Are we just fighting ourselves, our own fears and weaknesses, or is it something else entirely? There are times when I have this crazy notion that it has to be forces beyond our control which make the simple fact that you and I love each other a difficult matter.”

Clark shook his head. “ I honestly don't know any more than you do, Lana, why this has to be so hard. Ever since we were kids I’ve felt that you and I belong together, but it seems that every time we’ve come close to that happiness our way is barred by some force-Fate, Destiny, whatever the name for it is. Every time that I've attempted to get tried around those barriers, all I've managed to do is make the situation worse. Take today for instance…”

Clark shut his mouth a minute too late, and Lana asked curiously, “What about today? Are you taking about our date?”

All that Clark was able to get out was a weak, “Sort of, just the whole day really, I guess. The per-lived one, I mean. I got to see how with one mistake on my part Fate could simply step in, take control, and leave my life in ruins.” Clark brushed his hand across his brow in a quick agitated motion. “I swore that I’d never repeat that mistake, most especially not today.”
“God, Clark, whatever happened, it was that bad?” Lana asked, as she gently tried to smooth out the sudden creases on his forehead.

Clark just nodded, completely unable to answer.“I meant that vow, and I still feel that to retell Lana the truth would be a disaster waiting to happen. Chloe was right earlier, though, and Lana and I shouldn't have to give up our happiness just because of Joe-El's endless threats. If only there was a way for Lana and I to be together in spite of the perils and my secret. There's so much that I won't be able to explain to her, but maybe there is a way for Lana to understand that being with me is jeopardizing her life.”

“Lana, per-living that tragedy was easily the worst moment of my life. I never want to live a moment like that again, a moment where someone was hurt because of my mistakes, and I will do whatever is required to prevent that. That’s partly why I'm so nervous to promise about our date for tomorrow, why I was so sure our relationship wouldn't even make it that far. Let’s say I did take you out, gave you that perfect day I couldn’t today. Only I made that selfish decision, stole those moments of sweetness with you, knowing all the while that my actions were seriously tempting Fate to move against us. There’d be a price to pay, this time with severe consequence, and I'm dead certain that you’d be the one Fate demanded pay it.”

----------------------------------------------------------
This was a bit short, so I'll do some writing tonight and try to have a longer chapter tomorrow.

[#7superherofan]

Chapter 5: Moments of the Past- Recall Pain and Hurt, Reminiscing Love and Trust
Lana didn’t have a clue what had made Clark’s mild blue-green eyes darken as an intense brooding settle upon them; all she knew was that she’d trade her very soul for the knowledge to help him fight off his grim shadows.

“Clark, I have no idea what you’re talking about. What price are you so afraid we would have to pay for loving each other?”

Clark sighed, shook his head. “I had a feeling this subject would come up when I tried to explain all this tomorrow, and I wasn't sure how what I'd tell you. You do need to understand though, and I'll try to explain part of it now. It just might be easier for me, Lana, if I asked this question first. Have there ever been days in your life that you wish you could have a second chance to live? Been pre-warned how certain actions could seriously screw up your life?”

Clark's question had been quite unexpected and Lana slowly slid off Clark's lap while she tried to figure out what to say. It occurred to her in a fleeting burst of empathy that this was how Clark must feel when she asked a question that he had a hard time answering.

“Oh, for months I've been waiting for this moment when I could give Clark all the indepth answers to that question. I dreamed exactly how it would be, so sweet with me crying on Clark's shoulder while he comforted me in that way he always does. I'm not sure it will be like that anymore and I wish he'd asked me, or that I'd had the courage to tell him, three months ago. No, less than that, just during the time when Clark seemed to trust me with his confidence and so I could trust him with all the horrific drama of mine.

“Yes, I've known moments like that,” was Lana's eventual simple reply. “I think every one does. Clark, you've been given such a gift today, because most people don't get pre-warnings or second chances. They have to live with the decisions they wish they could remake.”

“That wasn't an option for me, 'cause this wasn't just one mistake that I had to live with. What happened, the tragedy I have to prevent, was due to the consequences of the all too many costly mistakes I've made in my life, especially ones I've made in the past six months. Those consequences wouldn't have been so hard to bear if I was the only one affected by them but unfortunately they reached out and hurt someone dear to my life. Lana, I've been afraid that something like this would happen for the past six months and my worst nightmare was that you... I couldn't let...if you were...”

It was impossible to continue for Clark's heart was breaking under the onslaught of painful memories that had flooded it. Trying to explain to Lana the concrete facts of her death as a mere frightening theory was easily the most hideous thing he'd ever had to do. Clark closed his eyes and he sighed deeply while running his hand over his lips. He slide all the way across the bench seat from Lana, and leaned his head against the steering wheel' s rim.

“Clark, what...?” Lana's tone was full of questioning sympathy as she reached over and stroked his shoulder.

“I've been afraid that the poor choices I've made in my life could be the cause of more pain and harm to your life, my Little Love. Your are the dearest, most precious part of my heart, so I couldn't stand for that to happen.”

“Wait. The reason you've been distancing yourself from me, why your reluctant to make Love to me, is that you're afraid that I'll somehow be hurt because of a mistake you made months ago?”

“Yeah.” In its own twisted way, that single syllable contained every truth that was buried in Clark's heart.

"Okay, I have no idea what danger could come from that, but... Oh Clark.” Lana's hazel eyes flashed with an emotional mix of irritated love, and mirthful pity. She chuckled while shaking her head and placed a comforting hand in Clark's. “This overwhelming concern you have to about keeping me safe is so endearing and I appreciate it, my Sweet Boy, but you have to stop letting a state of mind or a feeling that should bring us together only keep us apart. I understand why you worry” Lana added sadly, “ and I'm sorry because it's not right that you do so. I realize now that long ago day was so much more my fault than yours.

“What day are you taking about?”

Lana wondered how scarlet her cheeks had grown from the burning shame that filled her heart.

“The day a few years ago when you came to see me at the hospitable and I basically told you that it was okay that you'd shoved me out of your life 'cause it was too dangerous for me to be a part of it.”

“Oh that day. The one that only happened 'cause you were trying to help me keep Lex out of Belle Reeve and nearly got trampled to death for your efforts.”Clark reminisced sarcastically. “We've never exactly gotten around to discussing those couple of days, have we? I remember them pretty well and I'm curious as to why you'd believe that any of it was your fault?”

"Because you weren't to blame for what happened to me, and I honestly didn't mean what I said at the hospital. Can you understand that I wasn't even completely aware of what I was saying? With the combination of total terror 'cause a freaked out horse had attacked me with it's very powerful hooves, and the pain that came from my leg having been crushed in two places, do you know how much morphine I was doped up on? If another twenty-four hours had passed, if I'd been able to put a few more good night's rest between me and the accident, I probably never would've said it.”

Clark shrugged. “Maybe not, but you did. Not to mention the night of your 'Welcome Home' party at the Talon when you didn't exactly have the warmest of receptions for me.”

“Oh, of course not,” she snapped, wanting to whack him once on the side of the head. “That was a whole month later, though, thirty days in which the only contact I'd had from you was some generic get well card that had you're name scrawled on it, nothing else. You of course must have found my words very upsetting, but you've never known how chagrined I was over that dim memory that I wish could've just been a dream. I called you every day for two weeks wanting to beg you to forgive me, but you never come to the phone. I woke up every one of those mornings, hoping that you'd visit me and and ask for a second chance, and I cried myself to sleep every night because you hadn't come.

"I was left alone to deal with theanguish in my heart which had been crushed for worse than my leg. I'd put that pain there myself, and the one person who could possible take it away didn't even seem to care that I was suffering. Those weeks of enduring your apparent callousness were the reason I turned away from you that night at the Talon.Did you expect me to plant a big kiss on you after you'd clearly shown me how content you were with the idea of a non-existent relationship between us?!”

“And I didn't have a reason to think that you felt the same way? Lana, you told me to stay away and, phone calls or not, I would have for the rest of my life 'cause I believed that it was what you really wanted.”

“How could you have believed it, though, when for the previous six months I'd made every effort to hang on to you? It's an effort that I'm still willing to make, even with all of the confusing heartache of the past few weeks, because the way you've been treating me is still less painful than the thought of your Love not being in my life. We don't have to repeat the mistakes of our past, it's different this time. My heart is convinced of the Love it has for you, and it knows that you still Love me. It's so evident in the way you look at me, the way you kiss me, the myriad of ways you've opened up to me today rather than risk losing me. If this rift between us has been because you fear for my safety for some reason, I'm not afraid. Whatever pain or harm that might come would be worthwhile so long as we could face it together.”

[LetMeGo]

I'm enjoying this in-depth conversation they're having. Hopefully they'll come away with a better understanding of their past and each other. It's a definite step in the right direction.

[#7superherofan]

Note- Title has been edited. Chapters 5 and 6 were originally too short so I combined them and changed the title to reflect the combined themes. This part is reminiscing past love and trust.
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“The all important word there is, 'together', Lana. I wish I could say it as confidently as you, 'cause I do want that for us, but you can't really know for certain what will happen in the future.

“No, I can't” Lana admitted rather enviously, “you're the one that's been privileged with that gift. All I can do is hope for the best and trust that come what may, you and I can have a future full of happiness. Clark, couldn't you please also try to concentrate on putting your trust in that potential bliss instead of only expecting that the pain of our past bygones and whatever you fear will happen will continue to negatively influence our relationship?”

“I want to,” Clark admitted huskily. “Lana I'd give anything to be able face our future that bravely.”

“I know you would.”Lana blinked back the sudden moisture in her eyes. “And I know you can, just like you did that night last spring when we first started to get back together. You know that whole night tells in favor of how much we might belong together. I mean, what was the random chance of our romance being rekindled just because you got amnesia and asked me over to talk 'cause you said you didn't know how you could've broken up with me feeling like you did.

Clark nodded.“ You told me what I said when we talked that night, though of course I don't remember saying that. Now more than ever, though,I think I can imagine what it must have felt like to have a complete blank slate with you.”

He snickered with self depreciation. “ I must have been convincing to make you forget the problems of our past.”

“What convinced me was your eyes when you said it ,” she admitted softly. “They were full of all of your former love for me, but completely empty of all the old shadows and doubts 'cause you didn't remember the reasons why you didn't want to be with me. Not to mention, I was completely intrigued by your timing. The bottom had fallen out of my relationship with Jason, and you were just there once again to help me pick up my heart when it was hurting. Falling for you couldn't even have been classified as a rebound relationship, but rather risking a second chance with the one who got away.”

“More like the one who let you walk away,” Clark corrected wryly. “You know, I still can't believe that you didn't just take off screaming when you came to my house and I didn't have a clue why you were there.”

“I did think that your memory returning meant that we'd lost our chance. You didn't remember the past few days, and I just accepted that moment as another time when Clark Kent opened up to me one minute, and shut me out the next.”

Lana bit on her lower lip, trying to not let the old emotions overtake her, the painful or the blissful. “You didn't shut me out though and even got me to stay when you promised me that 'this time everything would be different.' When you said that I could almost believe that, whatever else you'd forgotten about the past few days, maybe you could remember having a spark of feeling for me. ”

Clark reached across the bench seat for Lana's hand. “I didn't have to remember, 'cause I never forgot it. Lana it might not sound like much, but no matter how much I pushed you away during junior year, I never stopped loving you. I found out that night, completely out of the blue, you could still also care for me, and I wasn't going to walk away again from a chance to let you know how I felt.”

“I was shell shocked that you didn't back away, and couldn't believe for a minute what I was hearing. In that moment it almost felt as if our painful past had never happened.” Lana reminisced with a smile, a smile that became somewhat marred as she bit on her lower lip, deep in thought.

“Clark, I think I can understand why you're scared our past will influence our relationship. In spite of my happiness that long ago night, part of me was also really worried and hesitant to take a chance on us again. I became even more so when you didn't exactly complain when I asked you if we could take our re-beginning slowly.

Clark looked out the window into the dark, winter night and for a moment questioned whether or not his and Lana's story could've been 'different this time' if only he hadn't taken it slowly that night, but instead told her his secret.

“It was probably a toss-up which of us was felt the most happy or the most hesitant. There was more I should have told you that night rather than just unveil the feeling in my heart, but I also was uncertain if moving too fast would jeopardize our re-beginning.”

Lana gaze was also fixed outside her window, as if she were seeing images from their past played out on the frozen landscape. “ It's funny, but in spite of our fears somehow we didn't seem to be able to move slowly, especially after we connected so much when we cared for that little baby we found on the side of the road, our little Evan. The way you cared for him reminded me of the person you really are, a good hearted guy who had the compassion to reach out to a helpless infant, yet also the strength be a father figure for a confused teenager who was facing a premature death. You have the most powerful, yet gentle of hearts and, no matter any former pain, I wondered why I was reluctant to put my trust in it.”

“I wasn't the only one that was strong for Evan though, Lana. You were able to assume a mother position for an baby abandoned on the side of the road, let him know that even though he was different he could still be accepted and loved and provide strong comfort to him when he was facing his end.”

Clark paused a moment, weighing his last statement with all the fears that he'd harbored about Lana accepting his secret, then shook his head regretfully. “It reminded me of how much warmth and tenderness is in your heart. That part of your nature is why I feel the most in love with you when we first started to really get to know each other, yet oddly enough, it's the one I seem to most easily forget. There are many reasons why I feel that I don't deserve that affectionate Love, so I guess I doubt that it will be there for me.”

Lana flushed several shades of pleased pink and reached for Clark's hand. “How could I not be there for you when even though I so little deserve your high opinion of me, I'd try so hard to live up to it so as not to hurt the heart that has many times left me in awe of it's own goodness and caring. I guess, as tragically as his life ended, caring for Evan not only helped us reconnect our love, but also helped us remember the reasons why our feelings are so strong and have survived so much. Somehow, something always reminds me of why I Love You, Clark, and I'm again able to have hope for our future together. Ultimately it was my belief in you and your tender, protecting Love for me that finally let me say 'I Love You” on the day o...”

Lana stopped in mid-sentence and her hand flew to her mouth as if she was forbidden to say anymore.

“What day,Lana?” Clark prompted, but she didn't answer, only sat with her eyes closed, stone stiff. Clark placed his hand on her arm to make sure she hadn't suddenly been turned to statue and was shocked to feel the waves of tension that raced like tremors down her arm.

“Lana, what...” he asked again, his voice full of concern.

She moved her hand just a quarter turn away from her trembling lips, as if motioning for him to stop.


"The day of the second meteor shower” was the hoarse whisper that finally came out in the shakiest of voices.

“The day of the... of course, the day told me you Loved me when we were saying goodbye in
the Loft. Lana Love, what 's wrong. You seem so upset, and I know you were that day, so...”

The pathetic flash of fearful begging present in Lana's wide hazel eyes as she looked at her Sweet Boy cut right to Clark's heart. Oh, how well did he know that expression, for he was certain that Lana must have seen it reflected in his own eyes at least a thousand times just that day. It was a look that screamed more eloquently than words “Don't ask, DON'T ASK, FOR THE SAKE OF MY SANITY, PLEASE DON'T ASK!!”

Clark nodded a silent understanding as he forced himself to confront a fact that he'd only been able to gradually admit in the past few weeks. Lana Lang, his Little Love, had secrets of her own.
-----------------------------------------;):D

[LetMeGo]

They have so much history. You're really covering it well, unlike the show, where we never really knew if they ever talked about these things. It's nice that Clark isn't pushing her about her secrets.

PPMS! :D