Unraveled Void

[spacewalker_33.3]

A/N: Well, so far i've been a silent reader and decided to give it a shot and see what happens :D . This might be my first attempt of a fic, so advices are welcome. I know it's a little twisted, so tell me if i should continue, i'm debating myself whether to finish this fic or not :\


Unraveled Void


Chapter I ~
Volatile

She found herself in the same situation she had been so many times before, dealing internally trying to bend her points of view with ethic and social protocol, attempting to ease down the guilty conscience talking unstoppably in the darkest corner of her mind.

“So…what do I have to do with this guy?” she asked with no signs of humbleness on her tone as her eyes admired the photograph lying unprotected on the desk.

“I just need this last small favor from you, before you start a new facet of life” he said resting his back on the chair, letting his mind travel in wonders of his possible plans. “You’ve been very helpful through this last year, Miss Lang, I am thankful of finding you and being able to help you and your aunt”

Smiling, debating herself between irony and melancholy, she replied with serenity “We’ve had to pay the highest price for your help”

Not feeling hurt at all from her statement, he nodded in approval of her point of view. Causing her harm and suffer was the very last thing he intended on provoking since he knew the type of feelings his not so devoted son had developed for the young lady, but when it came to ambition, his serene self dissipated leaving room for his evil side to show off.

Although she didn’t acknowledge it, she had changed Alexander’s life in depths ways he found himself unable to express, unable to manifest, not only because of the clear fear of rejection, but because he knew deep inside he didn’t deserve someone like her, but luckily for him his father had come to see and analyze this in time to not let her escape from their crawls.

“I promise this will be the very last favor” he said in his despiteful arrogant voice that Lana hated so much “What do you say Miss Lang? May I count with your useful help, as always?”

“That will depend...because so far I don’t know what I’m supposed to do, besides it’s not like I have a choice” she said piercing his impenetrable eyes with the palpable fury on her voice

“Fair enough, shall we start then?” he said with a futile smile, taking a thin manila folder on his hands “This young gentleman on the photograph is Clark Kent. He’d been…linked to many inexplicable events and accidents, abusing of his luck, but curiously he had never been hurt.”

Taking the opportunity of his pause, she said “So let me see if I’m getting this right, just before you finish…you want me to dig in the life of a guy just because he’d been involved in weird situations and had never got hurt? That’s what you’re saying, right?”

Letting out his cynic cold laugh, he grinned as the evilness escaped through his pores. Putting down the manila folders, he stared at her for a moment, and taking off his glasses, he said in a calmly and serene voice again, almost a whisper “Miss Lang…failure is what lays behind impatience” Looking swiftly at her from the corner of his eyes, he added “Mr. Kent is very especial. Let me see if I can do a small summary of his most important exposure. Let’s take for instance the very intriguing accident of my son, Lex. He was driving at 110 Kmp at the bridge situated at the end of the road 63 and at that speed, he accidentally hit Mr. Kent. Both, as was to expect, fell on the river.

If you ask me, I’d say it was a miracle both of them survived that unfortunate accident. But Mr. Kent, after being hit, saved Lex pulling him out of the water. And Lex was more disturbed and had more physical injuries than Mr. Kent himself. He didn’t have any at all, as a matter of fact”

Stopping his deliberate explanation to hear her point of view, he didn’t feel surprised when she said “Well…if you ask me, I’d say your son is very inconsiderate and imprudent to drive at that speed. I’m not surprised he crashed”

Playing the opposite role she expected him to play, he smiled and nodded “I couldn’t agree more with you, Miss Lang. But you see, the topic here is not my son driving skills” attempting to end abruptly the unpleasant conversation, he added pushing toward her the folders “Here’s all the information you might need to know about him. What I mainly want is for the two of you to grow close and you will report to me twice a month for the first four months. I’d dare to say you’ll have to see on daily routine. You’re inscribed in Smallville High, where he assists”

“Classes are about to start in Metropolis” she demanded

“I’m sure that won’t be a problem for you. You’re quite smart and have great adaptation skills”

“I need, a week at least, to make it believable to Nell” she inquired “She’s as smart as I am to realize it’s just a lame idea moving away from the city on my Senior year, considering I have all I might need here. I’m sure you don’t want her to find out about this brash assignment you’ve given me”

“Granted” he said pleased to feel the palpable commotion on her voice, logically from impotence of the power he had to change and twist her life “You got two weeks to make it believable and do all the adapting changes you might need”

She made a forced grimace and felt grateful they’ve ended their conversation. She took the manila folders and the photograph, and without any other word spoken, she stood and leaved cursing under her breath for the high price she needed to pay.

As she closed the doors, leaving behind the reason she couldn’t have a normal civilized life, she exhaled deeply as her body submerged into the hectic life of another night in Metropolis. She had forgotten at what point her life had become so dependable and fearful. Ever since Nell adopted her and started working for the Luthors, Lana’s life had turned into a living unending hell.

[clana4ev3r]

Ooo! I like this, it's very interesting! Keep going!

[maitriniazngurl]

OF COURSE you should continue it!! It's GREAT so far and i think that it has amazing plot. Lana twisted... but in a good way makes a great story. :)

ppms! I can't wait to read more!

[SecretzNLyz15]

Great start! Very interesting plot. You should definitely continue as I'd love to see how this all pans out.

[maitriniazngurl]

Please update soon! i am in need of a good dose of clana!

[spacewalker_33.3]

Hey guys :) Thank you for the positive feedback, you'll be my inspiration from now on :p Anyhow, the update is on its way, i might upload it after school :D .

[maitriniazngurl]

so when is after school? Sorry i don't mean to be pushy, u can update it whenever u want... i'm just excited. :D

[spacewalker_33.3]

Lol, it's contagious...YAYYY!!! Well, here in Dominican Rep. is 11:07 p.m. so....i'm not sure what time it'd be there ^^'

[spacewalker_33.3]

Chapter II
Changes

Days passed faster than she could perceive, she was internally stuck in a new dimension with no escape so far. Recapitulating her unleaded life she felt helpless at the moral contradictions enhancing unstoppably on her mind, the different scenarios she’d have to face along all the lies she surely would make up. She stared at her room as memories poured, backing up the idea of giving up on everything and running away. But her heart beated abnormally with just the mere idea of the path her little cousin would be forced to cover if she didn't fulfill Lionel's ridiculous request.

Eventually desisting at the showy idea, she irritably packed a few belongings for a journey without acknowledging her returning. She felt so empty, as if she was living someone else’s nightmare.

Shaking off the negative thoughts, she walked downstairs with her suitcase, ready to face life, or so she thought. She comforted her aunt, showing the printed inscription that Lionel had given her proving she would be assisting Smallville High. Repeating several times that it’d be for the best until believing it herself, she felt more capable and handy to carry out the new challenge lying on her shoulders, a responsibility that could be easily mistaken with a minor crime. She wanted to yell at the world that she was prisoner of a situation that escaped of her control long ago.

“Lana, I can tell you’re quite excited about this yet I still believe... it’s all too sudden” Nell inquired

“Well…I should start right away, besides it’ll leave us some benefits economically”

“Your parents would be proud knowing you’ll be running the very exact place they met”

“I hope so…I’m inverting half of my savings on this” she said exhaling, as if taking the guilt out of her being. “I’ll pick you up every weekend, I promise”

Hugging her niece, she nodded and restrained the tears that attempted to roll down her cheek. Not wanting to get melancholic and caught up in the moment, she pulled away quickly, excusing herself saying she needed to get going if she wanted to be there in time. Walking to the wood cradle, she stared at the little baby sleeping quietly and deeply. She kissed gently his soft little head and smiled as the boy stirred. Taking her bag, deciding it was enough of family moments, she walked to the door and said good bye to Nell, getting into her liberty SUV. As she drove farther, she looked through the review mirror the life she was leaving behind. The only life she’d known, but when the memory of the little child sleeping on the cradle came back to her mind, she didn’t feel any doubt she was doing the right thing.

After spending four hours on the dusty unfamiliar road, dealing with claustrophobics thoughts and doubts, she found herself finally admiring the delicate and clean asphalted streets of what used to be her home. Deciding it’d be better to stay for the night at a hotel, she resigned at the idea of finding something fancy. She just needed to sleep and order her thoughts.

It was no surprise, however, the overwhelming feelings that came within the old and used memories of her traumatic childhood. She already missed the skyscrapers, the hectic nightlife and loudness that characterize Metropolis. From the small window frame she stared at the sedentary life occurring outside her small yet comfortable room, everything was so quite, so peaceful. Knowing she’ll have plenty of time to stress out, she allowed herself to relax for the rest of the night. She felt intrigued and fascinated to see the powerful moon’s rays pierce softly through the few clouds hanging on the overtaking sky.

Throwing herself on the bed, she stared at the ceiling for a determined pause as her mind traveled through wonders.

I’ve run for so long from my past…from this past that it’s suddenly attempting to caught me once again. God…am I ever going to live again? When did I lose the control of my actions?…of my life? How did fall so low to obey a simple order by Lionel Luthor and let it change my life?

Eventually the tiredness and the tremendous fatigue she felt took over her, making her body heavier and her thoughts blurrier. She fell asleep with a bitter taste of impotence, a feeling she definitively needed to get used to.

Within a few hours as sleep faded leading her to her miscalculated reality, she felt mesmerized by the dazzling effects of the first soft rays of a vivid sun making a slow appearance on her window. Hesitating before gathering enough strength to start her hectic life, she attempted to ignore the persistent and unpleasant thoughts playing themselves incessantly on her head, about the thousand ways her day could go wrong and let herself relax one last time before submersing in the outer world.

[SecretzNLyz15]

Cool. So now that Lana is in Smallville, when is she going to meet Clark? Is she assigned to get Clark's secret?

[clanaalltheway]

nice story! ppms!

[spacewalker_33.3]

Chapter III
Irrelevance


As she walked through the hallway, admiring every detail, she felt hurried people kicking abruptly her shoulders as they passed by. Stopping at what she thought would be her locker she took the text books she might need for the day when she felt another unexpected hit on her forearm, making her hands dumb, as she watched helplessly her books falling from her shaky hands.

Admiring the mess resting at her feet and feeling everyone’s glance on her shameful shy shoulders, she didn’t have the courage to raise her eyes to look at the tumult of curious and funny stares. She heard a tongue tied apology from the distance as she stooped to gather her books, wondering where her determined attitude had gone when a big soft hand helped her to lift the books she couldn’t reach.

Helping her to stand on her feet with his free hand, he said in such tender voice “First days are always stressful”

Making eye contact, she felt something so warm and welcoming on his undefined colorful eyes. “Thank you” she replied, nonplussed someone had the nerve to help her, taking her books from his arm.

“Anytime” he replied with a pearly smile. As he turned to leave, she noticed he wore a jacket of the football team, Smallville Crows. Searching for his name on the back of the jacket, she found it sewed collaterally on a small badge. As she read it, the darkest still asleep and stressed corner of her mind replayed it incessantly.

Kent…could it be…Kent as Clark Kent? Could fate be by my side today? Nah…this guy looks more…attractive and compromising than the nerdy antisocial description I have of the Kent boy. Either way…I guess there’s no hurry, I’ll have a complete scholar year to get to know the guy.

Her logic resisted to believe that a football star could be neither a nerdy nor antisocial like Lionel suggested he was. Hesitating before ordering her locker, hearing the bell ring for the second time, she deciding to ignore the intriguing character and focus on what mattered.
She walked to the principal’s office, wanting to end with the introducing charade. As she entered the office, she immediately was greeted by an old man between his sixties.

“As it’s your first day at Smallville High, allow me to lead you to your classroom”

“It’s alright; I can search for it myself”

Smiling at the disciplined attitude of the young lady in front of his desk, he stood and said walking to the door “It’s school policy. Besides, Mr. Luthor suggested an academic guide for you through the first days.”

“Uh…may I know what does Lionel Luthor has to do with this? As a matter of fact, may I know what he has to do with me at all?” she inquired playing naïve.

“As a close friend of your aunt, he’s quite worried about your future. He’d shown himself somewhat concern of your compromising self-development with this institution”

I bet he has.

“Well, I’m glad to inform you that neither you nor Lionel Luthor need to be worried about my development”

Grinning at her indestructible attitude, he nod in understatement insisting “I’m sure we don’t, I'm positive about you fulfilling our expectations yet as much as you dislike the idea, I’d like you to consider the offer, knowing not everybody has this opportunity ”

Finally acceding to his unnecessary demands, they walked to her new classroom. As the principal opened the door for her, she once again felt awkward gathering every glance of the students. But this time, she found the courage to look at everyone, and was more than surprised to see the angelical face of the humble football player that helped her a few minutes ago.

“Good morning class. I’m glad to introduce you a new student, Miss Lana Lang.” began the principal “She comes from Metropolis and I’d like you to welcome her, making her feel as home”

Lana heard perfectly a few murmurs and whispers coming from the guys sit on the corner of the classroom with a vicious and naughty faces.

“I would like an academic guide for her through the first days” he said calmly. “We’d like someone that would make her adaptation faster and much more warming”

More murmurs invaded the room, as her eyes glued on a guy in specific. Surprised, she saw him lifting his arm, volunteering.

“Yes, Clark?” as the principal revealed the guy’s identity, she was shocked and ashamed with herself for wanting the healthy boy to be someone else instead of the geek she was supposed to find. “Are you available to serve Miss Lang as guide?”

He's so out of bounds...

[maitriniazngurl]

great update! Ha... Lionel thinks Clark is dorky... lol.

[svclanas5]

i love this! plz update soon!

[spacewalker_33.3]

~Irrelevance~
Continued

“It’d be my pleasure, sir” he replied with a firm and masculine yet tender voice that reechoed melodically on the classroom. She heard sarcastic comments about Clark’s decision, as he received whacks on the shoulder from his classmates from behind.

Turning to face her, the principal said very pleased “Well…it’s all set, Mr. Kent will be your guide. Welcome to Smallville High, Miss Lang”

As she thanked him, Clark stared at her for a determined pause, admiring every little detail of her dreamy face. He replayed the voice that thanked him on the hallway, tender and almost a whisper, but whisper or not, that wouldn’t represent a problem for him. Her long lank hair gave the impression of being made of silk, covering most of her right shoulder. Her beautiful hazel eyes were inviting him on a journey without a soon returning. He felt strangely pleased at her presence, experiencing dumbly and impotently how she transported him to a new dimension, oddly he enjoyed the slightly unusual sensation.

His eyes followed every of her delicate movements as she sat prudently away to him. Her eyes deviated involuntarily to his, watching an uncommon pureness on him.

What type of guy would he be? The typical promiscuous football player or the passive respectful guy? He seems reserved, introvert…and overall tempter…there’s such a mysterious aura surrounding him, making him so impressive, so intriguing…

Snapping out of her productive logic analysis, she realized she had been imprudently staring at him, apparently for too long. He was, curiously, staring back but quickly drifted away his gaze once he noticed her cheeks were turning red. She, with no option left did likewise, late though.

I’d like to presence one of those events Lionel Luthor babbled so much about…by what meets the eye; I wouldn’t dare to judge him in any way with lame prejudices…

She examined the staring faces from those ones that would be her classmates for the next year, and wasn’t neither surprised nor disappointed to see them staring shamelessly and being attentively observant about all of her moves, as if they were waiting for her to blunder.

Not today.

Trying to dissimulate her fright to the new facet of this piece of town she needed to get adapted to, she attempted to assimilate the class that remained by burying herself on the text book, kidding herself believing she had the confidence to reach concentration. Not having the remotest idea of the teacher’s explaining, even after her futile tries, she closed the book with frustration, promising herself to study it all once she get through the moving-in process, adjusting to classes perfectly. She opened a book Nell had given her, knowing how needy it was for Lana to read whenever she felt anxious.

As she drifted away from the incoherent voice of the teacher and transported to the fictional reality of the book, a known, yet forgotten, voice exclaimed “I guess old habits die hard”

“Or they never do” she responded quickly, unsure to whom the reply would be directed to.

Jerking her head, she was pleasantly surprised to see her old friend smiling widely at her. “I was waiting for you to recognize me, but I can tell your memory is quite dusty”

“Oh my God… I didn’t distinguish you in this crowd” She felt so relieved she would have someone to, eventually, share the burden with “Gosh Chloe, look at you! I wouldn’t believed you’d get any taller”

“Hey! It’s not like you’re six foot or anything” she replied with a grin “This is a surprise, I never thought you’d exchange your civilized serviceability and comfort for some random rural experience”

“I got a reason to justify my sudden change of heart” she said confidently “And I’d like you to be the first one to see it before its heightened opening”

“That sounds big, what’s behind all this fuzz?”

“Be patience” she said “Why don’t you stop by after school?”

“Sure, but I’d be a little late though, I got to finish the preparative for another year at The Torch” the humdrum and sarcasm palpable on her voice

“No problema” she replied writing down the address. “I’d finally get a change to see you in action at the so called Torch”

The bell rang, freeing the caged sensation of prison yet she was very conscious she would end up dragging that heavy sensation anywhere she decided to go. As the classroom emptied, his tall elegant silhouette became much easier to distinguish approaching from the dissipating crowd.

Her sudden nerves made her feel stultified as words flew off, leaving her stunned at his presence.

Her mind raced, wondering what would be wise or appropriate to say but Chloe took the initiative “So enlighten me, Clark...what’s into you that made you volunteer as newbie’s guide” turning to Lana, she added “no offense Lana”

“No offense taken, Chlo’” there it was, that simply unusual smile that caught his attention before.

He found himself unable to unglue his eyes from her to response Chloe. Her spell had a powerful effect on his already weaken spirit. The closer he walked toward her, the more mesmerized he felt; her beauty was outrageous, so exotic. Her gaze was vivid, manifesting an unusual, so perfect, flame that burned reflected on his own.

She, as was to expect, stared pleasantly at the new man that filtrated unwontedly on her present, not to mention her future was based on his life. Unable to comprehend the apprehension she felt whenever he was around, she felt awkward having to forcedly face her nervousness and decipher the reason hiding behind that uncommon feeling.

“Earth to the nebbish-boy” Chloe demanded clapping at his face, ending abruptly the fascination that wrapped him.

“C’mon Chloe, I just want to prove you that I can develop my social skills after all” He said with faked confidence, pretending his gruffly voice would make his sudden blush unnoticed.

“It’s hard to believe you lack of social skills, Clark” Lana butted in “By what meets the eye, I mean”

God…am I flirting already?

“That’s because you don’t know him yet” Chloe interfered with an evil grin, lifting her eyebrows “Give him a week”

“That much?” he asked with disbelief as Lana chuckled at his faked ingenuity.

I’d definitively play dumb to see her smile again...not that it'd be hard or anything, considering my experience...

Wanting urgently to continue the conversation without making a fool of himself, he said “Um…I got a few notes about last week classes that you might find useful”

“That’s great” Enthusiasm present of her voice “Chloe is coming over after school, would you like to join us?”

“She is?...Well okay then, I’ll be there right after football practice” he could already feel the nervousness and the intrigue corroding him. Turning to Chloe as Lana wrote furiously the address, he added “Looks like I’m not the only one trying to prove social skills”

“For the record, I’ve known Lana for more than ten years” Indignation manifesting itself on her voice

“Alright, alright” he said putting his hands defensively on the air “But I’m still one step ahead of you. I’m winning the bet”

“We’ll see at the end of the month”

“Oh we will” he affirmed, and turning his attention back to Lana concluded “I guess I’ll see you later, Lana”

As she handed the piece of paper, she nodded “Sure…I’ll be waiting”


**************************************


A/N : Aww guys thanks so much for the possitive feedback, it's what keeps me going. As for the next update, i expect to give it another twist, to let the two loverbirds comfortable in an awkward situation. Let's see how it turns out. ;)


maitriniazngurl : Your constant reading gives me the feeling i'm doing a good job...at least that's what i want to believe :p

superman_lives_on : Thanks a lot for the tip!! No idea what i'd have done without you :p ;)

[maitriniazngurl]

Great update! I was just wondering when Lex would be coming...?

It's ok Lana... Who would be able to resist flirting with Clark?? lol.

[Hahaveryfunny]

Um, can we have an update on this? Its been awhile.

PPMS!

[spacewalker_33.3]

Hey guys! I'm so sorry for the lack of update, I've been kind of busy with scholar projects and Senior parties already. The next chapter is taking me longer than anticipated, but I promise I'll do my very best to post it before thursday :D How does that sound?

[spacewalker_33.3]

Chapter IV
Inception


As an independent grown-up, Lana’s dreams crossed, by far, the shallow environment and forsaken city she had spent most of her young confusing life, fulfilled with gruesome memories of a denied ungrateful past and an unsafe, halting future.

Unable to react and face the enhancing unnerving doubts, her mind involuntarily transported her to overused and repetitive memories that had utterly traumatized and scarred her gloomy living; but overall, she recalled perfectly the authentic and legitimate first paragraph of the vehement letter Laura Lang had reserved for her daughter’s adolescence, unknowing how needy and useful it’d be for her beloved child to have a constant reminder of her subliminal existence, keeping balance between facts and fiction.

Fear not, my darling, because Mommy will always be right by your side. You’ve been the light that penetrated my unending darkness, giving happiness another meaning, a distinct, unmistakable refreshed meaning of joy…open your wings and fly, defy contradictions, and paradigms. Do not let anyone take away your essence, your unique essence. Break any bounds that might hold you from your metamorphosis and fear not…fear not, my darling.

Fear not… she thought bitterly It’d be so much easier if you weren’t gone…

She opened a mahogany deteriorated door and stumbled with a prop of colorless receipts and old envelopes that time was obviously dissipating. Pushing it aside to walk through the dust and the dirt covering the floor, all her enthusiastic spirit dissolved into nothing more than pity for herself. Taking a look around the misty odd place, she tried to gather strength and find something that might motivate her enough to start her new adventure, but the more she saw its dejected condition, the more the deception enhanced.

Walking upstairs with her light luggage, she attempted to ignore the demands and complaints from her brain and changed quickly to her comfy sport clothes. And with no waste of time, she started cleaning and sweeping with much more velocity and strength than she actually felt.

She lost track of time when the need of planning her life submerged her, absorbing most of her already gone energy. As the cold that accompanies the night sent unexpectedly freezing chills through her half protected spine, she decided it would be enough for the day. Staring for a moment at the clean establishment that now relayed on her shoulders, she couldn’t help but to feel truly proud at her hard effort, converting what looked like a forsaken alley into a clean house again.

As she walked up the stairs to reward herself with a hot bath, she felt a loud masculine voice pierce her tense eardrum.

“I have no doubt you will give life back to this place”

Recognizing the voice, she turned in amazement “This is a surprise. A sudden visit from Alexander Luthor himself” walking toward him, she offered a forced icy smile and asked “How may I be useful, Alexander?”

Chuckling at her formality, he lowered his gaze for a moment and said “My father commented that you got some pretty good ideas to run this place”

Did he, coincidently, comment the harrowing threats that helped me to make up my mind?

“Yeah, but I can’t put my finger on it yet” she replied as he admired the place “It’s nothing more than random ideas”

“Well, you’ve made the first move”

“And probably the last” she smiled, hiding her profitable plans.

“Nah, I don’t think so” he replied walking closer, taking out a white envelop from his black jacket. As he handed the envelop to the now confused Lana, he said “I want to make sure you give the rest of the steps to walk this path you’ve chosen”

Already knowing what kind of help he was offering, she nodded and smiled affably. “That won’t be necessary, Alexander. I want to manage this my own way. But thank you anyway, that’s very gentle of you”

Receiving the envelope back, he wasn’t surprised her pride didn’t let her take it. Her self-reliant was admirable. “I understand…So what plans do you have?”

“I don’t know yet, I’m burning up my neurons but nothing worthy is popping up”

“I’m sure you will come up with something big, as you always do”

“Thanks” She urged to stop the conversation without being impolite but found herself powerless. What could a bald unskilled, spoiled, dreaded billionaire have in common with a hardworking and common person like her?

“May I ask what stimulated you to take this decision? I thought you had everything you might ever need downtown.”

“That’s exactly why” her voice sound so convincing that she was certain her lie would become truth. “My life was too sedentary, I wanted something different…and that’s where your father comes in the picture”

He grinned sympathetically, hiding the disappointment he felt when he found out she asked for the obscure help of his father instead of turning to him –not that there’d be any difference. He felt static when his dead gaze caught a glimpse of the gent glow of her transparent eyes. He longed to manifest and demonstrate his overwhelming feelings for her, but it was such a unique situation that made him feel completely helpless and powerless.

“So…how did my fath----“

Alexander trailed off immediately, turning his attention at the sound of a much more baritone voice that suddenly came approaching from the entrance door, accompanied by strong footsteps.

“Is anybody home?” the voice demanded

Quickly walking over to receive her new visitor, she exclaimed “Hey! I was starting to believe you wouldn’t make it”

With such satisfactory smile on his face, he felt exuberated once his sight focused on her. He experienced an undecipherable ticklish that enhanced the more he stared at her uncommon beauty and outstanding body.

“I apologize for the delay” he replied, hoping his smile would prove how lamented yet pleased he felt “And I’m so sorry but you’ll be stuck with Chloe and me for the rest of the night, she even mentioned she’ll bring diner”

Being stuck with you …oh Clark, there’s nothing to feel sorry about

“That’d be just fine” she said “That’ll be way better than having her proving her culinary skills"

He chuckled at the comment, already imagining Chloe with an apron, singing Italian opera’s and making insipid sauces. A cough came from the disregarded billionaire, that couldn’t give credit to his eyes.

Clark turned; his smile rapidly fading as the sight of the negligible foe came in sight. Lana cleared her throat, a little embarrassed for her manners, especially in front of Clark; not that she didn’t care for the image Alexander might create of her, but unquestionably, Clark’s opinion was much more relevant and important.

The formal introduction she planned was sidetracked when Alexander surprised her, saying “Clark…long time no see”

Walking toward him, Clark saw skeptically Alexander’s right hand offering a benign handshake, which he didn’t grant.

“Not long enough” His icy, vigorous tone gave Lana the certainty that he liked Alexander’s persona as much as she did. And that was more than fine with her.

Understanding his directness, he nodded and lowered his hand, sliding them into his pockets defiantly.

“You guys know each other?” Lana asked, in spite of the obvious, taking a place in their incommunicative conversation, attempting to fill in the silence.

“Unfortunately” Clark replied, his eyes filled with deep anger. Deciding it’d be wiser and more mature to not show his merciless and heartless emotions, he turned his gaze to Lana’s, easing down at her peaceful eyes “My bad…I didn’t know you had visit, I can come back later if you’d like”

“Don’t bother…” Alexander replied “I was on my way out”

Despitefully, Clark watched skeptically Alexander pass him by, as Lana followed him to proceed with the manners that proved her high education, attempting to keep hiding her disgust because of his unwonted presence.

Helping Alexander wasn’t what she had planned, but he’d taken over her fragile negligence. She let herself be surrounded by his unremitting lies and contradictions, his internal debate on whether to follow his father’s dark steps or walk slowly a new path with no security of how it might turn out, wondering if it’d leave the sensation of fulfillment. It was late by the time her eyes were unfolded and widely open to see.

Unlocking his silver Cayman, he turned, shame quite visible on his wandering gaze “Sorry about that…we have a blurry past"

“It’s alright” He misunderstood her polite smile, taking for granted she wouldn’t argue or ask for explanation, unknowing that the unrestricted bond that destroyed his old friendship with the cryptic Clark Kent, would be the very same bond that would later unite his inwardly beloved with his greatest enemy. Either way, it wasn’t on his plans to explain or justify his not-so-devoted- friend’s attitude.

With a heavy sigh, he ended saying “Take care…and give me a call in case you need help with your new project"

Eased she would be left alone with the intriguing football star, she agreed “I will…thank you”

He waved as the engine roared, lifting the dust of the asphalted street. As she watched him getting lost in sight, Clark’s baritone could be heard from behind, shyly saying “I’m very sorry you presence that…I bet you have quite an impression of me now”

Chuckling, she turned, stunned to have his face so close to hers. His smile was so genuine, his eyes full of an unknown feeling she didn’t have the courage to decipher, not yet. It was more than enough to be internally forced to be with him. Stammering was inevitable and very predictable. “I…um---you, don’t--”

Sighing, she stepped away smoothly, turning her back on him, to get distracted and focus on something…anything –and fast, before she showed him exactly what kind of impression she had of him. “I don’t like judging by what meets the eye”

I should save that line to use it with Lionel as well…damn, where is he when I got nice comebacks?

“And I truly don’t want you to feel obligated to tell me whatever it is happening between you two if you don’t feel like it” Walking inside, she turned to make eye contact, offering a smiled as if assuring him she’d wait for the right time for him to open up “I know trust takes some time to be built”

Captivated by her maturity, he agreed, following her inside. Her pace was bewitching, making it impossible for him to focus on anything else. Not that he’d dared to try.

“I’m impressed…you’ve undusted this place in a heartbeat”

“Yeah, but I’m counting on some help from both you and Chloe with the decoration”

“You---you need me to help you with decoration?” he asked skeptically, stepping ahead to feel the privilege and inwardly confusion of looking at her in the eyes. She couldn’t help but laugh at his freaked out expression. Priceless.

“Don’t worry, Clark. I got some catalogs to choose the theme to paint and I’d like to hear some opinions to make up my mind”

“Oh” His relief was quite obvious

Snickering, she added “Never mind, Clark, let’s just wait for Chloe to show up…in the mid-time…come with me, I’m ready to take your tutorial”

He followed her upstairs as she unlocked the door, revealing her recreation area, the part of the big forgotten alley that she’d changed and adapted into a small apartment, leaving room downstairs to run business. He scrutinized the clean and harmonious way she’d decorated. Her style was plain yet so elegant and unusual.

“Make yourself as home” she said “Sorry for the disarray, this moving-in procedures drives me crazy”

“Disarray? What are you talking about? My room doesn’t look this tidy even when it's clean”

And there it was… her magical laugh. So captivating. Its perfect sound made him smile goofily, producing contradictory thoughts and exhaustive emotions, so vehemently.

What is it about this girl that makes her so different?

“Have a seat; make yourself as home” Her tone proving how agitated she felt “Would you like some iced tea?” She asked approaching to the small counter.

“That’d be wonderful” he replied with a charming smile that she couldn’t help but to return. “So…how do you like Smallville?”

“It’s odd, you know…life back in Megapolis is so hectic, yet I feel more rushed and stressed here, in this peaceful town, than I did back home”

Gee girl…would it be because you got two lives depending directly on your actions? Or perhaps the fact you’re doing the dirty work of Lionel Luthor again? Oh, I know…maybe it’s just the constant, useless fight kept inside of your messy head to avoid any emotional connection with Clark? She stopped, dead in her tracks, at the sudden thought. Nah…why would I want any kind of romantic attachment with the handsome, breathtaking Clark Kent?

“I’m sure it’d fade away as soon as you spend your first week here” he commented, sitting on her black leather couch, a bit distracted by her showy calf. “Lana…I’m sort of curious, how did you and Chloe exactly meet? I mean, I’ve known Chloe for a couple of years now, and honestly…I’m surprised we haven’t run into each other before”

That didn’t sound as I planned…or meant he thought.

Puzzled with amusement, she replied “Well…I’ve known her since we were kids. When I was five, I moved in with my aunt for the first time to Metropolis, and Chloe was my neighbor. We did everything together, she became the sister I never had; she’s very important in my life.”

“I’m quite sure she thinks likewise” he replied “So... you’re from Smallville, right?”

“Yeah” Pride present on her soft voice “And I’m guessing that you’re from around here as well”

“Yes, I am” But that’s just one of my favorite lies to tell. . “That’s why I’m surprised I haven’t seen you before”

“Yeah well….I came back to have a cheerful Senior year. I was forgetting what it actually feels like to be in touch with my old self …I haven’t walked these streets in like forever, so many memories forgotten”

He thanked her as she served his tea, sitting comfortably next to him on the couch, having a chance to wander in his ocean blue pair of perfect eyes.

“Didn’t you ever feel homesick?” he asked taking a sip from the tea.

“I did actually…but I kept a little handmade souvenir to get through those melancholic moments…here” she said taking out of her pocket a delicately box that contained a fragile necklace with an odd green piece that could have been confused with amber if it would’ve been red. Watching it glow as she pulled it out, he started feeling strange, somehow sick.

She moved closer to show it more clearly to him, but the closer she moved, the sicker he felt. He noticed how his sight became a confusing blur; his veins became almost palpable, just as if they were going to split from his hand. Suddenly, an incredibly pain began spreading itself all around his stomach, leaving him motionless and immobile, as a colorless expression suddenly replaced his normal skin tone.

“Clark? Are you feeling all right? You’re really pale” she asked confusedly frighten.

Not being able to mutter a word, he felt how he began loosing balance and consciousness. As his senses faded away slowly, he fought to try to regain control again, yet he could feel how the cold glass of iced tea slipped from his hand, as his breath became raspy and brief, it was quite visible that his chest was as red as it could be due to his first undone buttons, which Lana had already thanked heaven for.

Startled by the sound of the plastic glass hitting the floor, she stood on her feet as he unexpectedly fell from the couch, hitting hardly the floor, trying in vain to stand.

As she kneeled urgently, he could hear her repeat his name several times. She dragged his body the best way she could, and made him sit on the floor, with his back resting on the couch.

I…haven’t felt this way since…my last exposure to green kryptonite…but how? Is it anywhere near? No, or else I would have gone sick before…then… what’s happening to me? All my strength is almost gone...

“Clark…talk to me” she said placing a hand on his chest softly, and the other one on his forehead “God, you’re burning up”

Great! Just perfect timing, I just met him! I don’t even dare to imagine what would have happened if I’d have dated him….

Even though he couldn’t recall even his own name at the moment, he distinguished her touch, it felt so tranquilizer, so gently and warm. He did his best to reunite all of his strength left to open his eyes. He saw the green part of her necklace glow as she moved closer.

“Thanks God, wait here I’m going to call for an ambulance” she said in an attempt to stand but he grabbed his wrist as softly as he could as his eyes stared thoroughly at her necklace.

“Your…neck—la—” he muttered inarticulately, cut by his raspy breath, feeling the same pain on his stomach reach his throat and consume his voice.

“What?...my neckla? My necklace ? Is that what you’re trying to say Clark?” She waited for him to nod or show any signs of approving but seconds passed by without any signs of life from his dejected silhouette. Reaching his soft cheek, she felt him nod lightly. Confused, she stared at him trying to decipher what he’d meant. Touching confusedly her necklace, she stood, stepping back.

As she did so, he confirmed it was her necklace, since the pain reduced considerably, yet it was still unbearable. She saw how his color was slowly, almost unnoticeably, coming back again, yet he didn’t move.

“Keep it…away from me…please” he said feeling his voice stronger than before.

Not having idea of what he might’ve meant with that, she took it off nonetheless, placing it back on the small box and running to her bedroom, keeping it on the darkest corner of her closet.

Walking quickly back to Clark, she was surprised by seeing him as if nothing had happened, his normal skin tone was back, his vein looked normal, his breathing was fine.

Stopping at the kitchen to grab a mini towel, soaking it on water and coming back to him, she kneeled concerned in front of him, touching his forehead gently and passing the mini towel over his face she asked “Are you okay?”

Closing his eyes at her warm, mellow touch, he replied absently “I’m fine now” he placed his hand over the one she had on his forehead and gave it a soft squeeze, as he opened his eyes, he said “Thank you”

Raising her eyes from his powerful locking gaze to their almost entwined hands, she felt something no one else had made her feel with just a mere touch. It felt different, scary yet so addictive and warm.

Stop this Lana; you know way better than this, stop abusing of your imagination.

Sensing the moment they were having, and being unable to say if it was fictional or real, she decided to shake it off and break the silence she would agree to be eternally in with him by “Um…it was nothing, but what was all that about? Why did you ask me to keep my necklace away?”

He moved his hand away slowly, and said “Is there any chance your necklace is made of fragments of the meteor shower?”

Surprised, she sat on the floor next to him and answered “Yeah, it actually is made of fragments of meteorite…how you know?”

“Because it is the only thing in this world that I’m death allergic to” and apparently in other worlds too…

Gasping, she replied quickly “Oh God. I’m very sorry Clark, I--”

“Hey, it’s all right, you didn’t even imagine it” he said smiling and yet again she felt like melting right on his arms. “It’s odd though, most people I know don’t have anything made of those fragments” he said pulling her out of her fantasy daydream.

“I have it for a special reason, actually” she said lowering her gaze “It’s made of the fragments that were left of the meteor that killed my parents”

“I’m sorry to hear that” he said sympathetically, with such sentiment that Lana couldn’t help but to smile, feeling somehow eased.

“They died when I was only five…I don’t remember much about them, but I remember that day, they promised my aunt I’d go to visit her at her flower shop, so they dropped me to spend an entire day with her, I was wearing a fairy dress with a pink magic stick” she said as they both chuckled “They were supposed to pick me up at night, but as soon as they heard the news of the sudden meteor shower, they called saying they were a block away to let us all to a safer place. Not knowing if staying on the shop was a good idea; my aunt carried me and took me out. As soon as we got out I saw my parents, and that was the very last time I ever saw them, a meteor smash right on the spot they were standing”

Surprised by the maturity that she was talking about it, he couldn’t figure out any wise words of comfort at the moment, he just took her petite hand tenderly on his, and said “Give other people the courage to know that everything will be fine isn’t exactly my strong suit, yet I’ll give it a shot this time” as she chuckled and stared at their entwined hands “sometimes life doesn’t play fairly on us, it just throw us more weight than what we ever thought ourselves capable of carrying, and those weights leave scars on our lives, most of the times, we don’t get over it, we just learn to live with it, to deal with it, and even though I know is hard to even think something good might’ve come out of that terrible incident, please believe me, something good is waiting for you out of that experience, yet I have to admit I’m surprised with the maturity you’re talking about it”

Perplex by his realistic and clear point, she felt her voice gone. Clearing her throat, just to confirm she was able to talk or at least mutter something, she smiled and said “Thanks for the piece of advice, it’s the first realistic point of view I’ve had besides Chloe’s of course, I’ve really had a hard time getting used to all of it”

“I can imagine” he whispered staring at her innocent gaze, as she couldn’t help but to stare back on those pair of intriguing mysterious blue eyes.

Their almost perfect second moment in a row was suspended hopefully for some other time as they both heard the door crack open, revealing an energetic Chloe after a day from work, carrying her laptop with her right hand and a few manilas folders with her left one.

Finally entering, she was stunned by just a brief glance at the living room. Seeing her best friends on the floor, with their backs resting on the couches, sit next to each other and with their hands entwined.

What the…? Please!They just met each other! Give me a break!

“Hey guys, I’m finally here” she said placing the folders and the laptop on the crystal table having an unusual maleficent smile that showed a hidden shady purpose behind.

Both of their minds racing at what Chloe twisted mind might think of their entwined hands, they both let go mutually as she turned around to take her coat off and place it on the mini closet near the door.

As she walked closer back to them, she observed the little mess on the floor “Gosh…I knew I was missing something good…what happened here?”

“I...was trying to show Clark my necklace but I didn’t know he was allergic to the green fragments left of the meteor shower”

“Oh my God, are you all right?” she asked already knowing the devastating effects those glowing rocks had on him.

“Yeah, I’m great” in spite of his statement, Lana stood on her feet and helped him to do likewise, by sharing half of his own weight with her shoulder. Either way, feeling perfectly fine or at the verge of death, it was nothing else than a mere lame excuse she assured herself to believe just to feel the sparkling and even imaginative chemistry between his soft flesh and her own.

Oh God...what did I tangle myself into? I underestimated the effect this splendid lighthearted man might cause on me....I cannot afford such luxury...I just...cannot.