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100promptsChapter 8: Public Secrets
Storyline: Man of Steel A New Hope [AO3]
Characters: Clark Kent (Kal-El) & Lois Lane, Bruce Wayne, Talia Head (Al Ghul), Lex Luthor
Prompt: #030 Writer's Choice (secrets)100prompts
Rating: PG
Word Count: 3650
Fandom: Superman/DC/DCEU
Summary:Clark’s eyes narrowed. He studied the look on Luthor’s face. There was a joke here, but he didn’t know the punchline. Clark closed his eyes again. A wave of nausea suddenly gripped his stomach. His knees grew weak as another wave passed over him. Nausea? Was he getting a bug? Impossible. He didn’t get sick. Ever.
A/N: One of the biggest issues I had with Batman v. Superman was the dynamic between Superman/Clark and Batman/Bruce Wayne. Although the two are highly competitive, I never sensed any hate or animosity between them in the comics or in the animated universe. In fact, in Rebirth, it is explicitly stated that Bruce Wayne is Superman's best friend. While I understand that it took years of partnership to establish this friendship, I feel like Batman v. Superman made their mashup in Justice League implausible. I wanted to establish a mutual respect between Clark and Bruce in this chapter. Although Clark has his reservations, there is no hostility between them.
A few additional notes about Batman: This is not the Batman from BvS or Justice League. I'm not a fan of Batfleck. This Batman would be closer to Bale's Batman in the Nolan Trilogy but with much better detective skills. This would put him as only a few years older than Clark. Because he is not that older battle scared Batman, he does not have the same story arch as the Batman in BvS or JL. This change in characterization also changes his dynamic with Clark and Lex Luthor.
Talia Al Guhl- As previously mentioned, Talia is at a point in her life where she has become disenchanted with her father and goes by the name Talia Head. Bruce is aware of her real name and the two are in a relationship. Damien Wayne has not been born yet.
Metropolis- As established in many of the comics, Metropolis and Gotham are separated by a harbor. New Tory is like Manhattan. Glenmorgan Square is the Metropolis equivalent of Time Square. Suicide Slum is the bad part of New Troy.
Disclaimer: Not my characters. Story is mine.
Lex Luthor’s charity event was a who’s who of celebrities and the ultra-rich. The business tycoon hosted his “Night at the Met” event every year at the Metropolis Museum of Art. Celebrities from around the world flew in to showcase the latest fashions. And pretended to care about whatever charity was the current flavor of the month. This year all proceeds went toward the Lex Corp Clean Water Fund. It wasn’t lost on her that Lex went public with his clandestine charity only after she had questioned him about it. He thinks he’s so funny, the reporter thought to herself as she and Clark rode in the back of their rented town car. They were the only other people who knew the charity was a cover-up for his secret excavations in the Gaza Sea. The rest of the public still thought Lex Luthor was the city of Metropolis guardian angel. She wished she could tell everyone at the party that he was nothing more but a devil in sheep’s clothing.
“Is something bothering you, Lo?” Clark asked noticing the frown lines on her face.
Lois sighed and looked out the window. “These people have no idea,” she said.
Clark’s lips pressed into a thin line. He knew exactly who she was talking about without mentioning the name Lex Luthor. The couple shared similar concerns over the man. Exposing him was their number one priority. The possibility of Luthor knowing he was Superman put everyone he cared about at risk. Who knew to what extent Luthor would go to out him? He already planted a bomb on a train placing thousands of innocent lives at risk. They were close to uncovering the truth. Clark felt it in his gut.
“No, they don’t. Let them have their night of bland food and overpriced drinks. What happens in the dark always comes to the light.”
He had a point. Nothing stayed private in Metropolis very long. It barely took two days for word to leak to the press when Mayor Sakett moved his wife out of Lacie Mansion and his new mistress in. They were going to expose Lex Luther to the world. But tonight, she and Clark would dance, eat his bland food and drink his overpriced drinks for a good cause. They’d even get a chance to rub elbows with all the people from lifestyles of the rich and famous.
“So, I’ve counted about 5 Lamborghini’s ahead of us,” she said. It was her attempt to lightening up the solemn mood in the car. “That should place us at about an hour late by the time we get through security.”
“Fashionably, late, Lo. Besides, everyone knows the party doesn’t get started until after midnight anyway.”
Lois squinted her eyes at Clark. “What do you know about parties, Smallville?” She teased.
“Hey, I’m known to attend a few hootenannies in my day. A couple of shindigs here and there,” he joked making Lois laugh.
“Somehow, I cannot imagine you hooting or nannying near any shindigs.”
Clark’s chest rumbled with laughter. “Smallville is a little town, but we have our moments.”
Lois eyed him suspiciously in the dim car. “Sure, you do. Somehow Clark Kent partying at an all-night kegger seems as fake as superman fanfiction.”
Clark's head swayed in disbelief. “I still can’t believe people actually write fictional stories about Superman.”
Lois nodded. “Oh yeah, and some of it is so deliciously bad, it’s good. I especially like the ones where you’re like this bodice ripping, Fabio. It’s so retro.”
The couple laughed together with ease. Lois loved hearing Clark laugh. Things at work and in life were so tense lately. She rarely got to see him crack a smile. He was doing that brooding thing he used to do when they initially met. The sooner they figured out Lex’s plan, the sooner they could get their lives back to normal. Or as normal as their lives were ever going to be. Until then, what was one night of decadence? It was a shame their long overdue night out was associated with Lex Luthor.
Clark exited the town car first and helped Lois onto the red carpet. Blinding lights flashed from multiple directions. Clark placed his hand on her lower back and steered them toward the entrance. Once the paparazzi noticed their press badges, they lost interest in the two journalist. Lois bit back a smile and looked up at Clark.
“It looks like we haven’t made it yet,” she joked.
Clark gave her hand a gentle squeeze and laughed. “They’ll regret not getting a picture of Lois Lane Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist.”
“This must be how Rob Kardashian feels.”
Clark shook his head and snorted out a laugh. I love her. The thought formed in his mind without any preamble. Clark looked down at Lois and his heart swelled with emotion. She was frowning at their invitations while trying to figure out which entrance belonged to the press pool. He wondered if she had any idea how beautiful she looked when she was concentrating. He started to tell her, but the security guard motioned him to step forward for the security checks. The stone-faced security guard patted him down and let him pass. Lois joined him a few seconds later and they walked into the museum arm in arm.
The scene was something out of a movie. Members of the glitterati huddled together in their thousand-dollar designer clothes. Bits of gossip mixed with laughter. A live band played jazz covers of popular songs as the other guests mingled in the crowded hall. Clark pulled his glasses down the bridge of his nose and did a quick scan of the room. Everyone was safe and unarmed.
“So, I wonder where our gracious host is.” his tone dripped with sarcasm.
“Probably around here ruining lives. I’m sure we’ll have the misfortune of bumping into him sooner or later,” Lois replied.
“Let’s hope not.” Clark let out an audible sigh. He meant every word.
Lois was one of the few people who shared his dislike for Lex Luthor. Everyone treated the businessman like he was the second coming. No one ever challenged his questionable actions or dug deeper into his business deals. In their eyes, he was the man who had single handily restored Metropolis. The man could literally stand at the center of Glenmorgan Square and shoot someone and people would still vote for him as president. Lex Luthor was a very twisted man and so were his most avid supporters.
The couple moved through the crowd of guests until they were on the dance floor. He rested his hands on the dip of Lois’ back and moved in time to the music. He took a moment to admire her again. She looked incredible that night. The last few weeks had been non-stop insanity. Between their jobs at The Planet and his duties as Superman, neither had a moment to breathe.
“He’s here,” Lois said nudging Clark.
Clark swiveled his head around in different directions. “Who?”
“Bruce Wayne. He just walked in.”
The Gothamite was standing at the edge of the crowd with a woman he didn’t recognize. As soon as Wayne entered the room the atmosphere shifted, and all eyes were on him while he greeted other guests. Bruce Wayne was a presence, and the Wayne Foundation was a tour de force. If Lex was Metropolis’ man about town, Wayne would be his Gotham counter-part. Although his reputation suffered a bit after he burned down Wayne Manner.
“Let’s go introduce ourselves before he gets mobbed,” Clark said.
He’d only seen the Gotham native on television and magazines. Clark realized seeing Bruce Wayne in person was a different experience. It made him aware of his own physicality compared to the billionaire. Since becoming Superman, Clark had to be careful about protecting his identity. As part of his disguise, he changed the way he styled his hair, his gait, speech pattern, and even his posture. He often stood with his shoulders hunched over, so he could appear shorter than his alter-ego. Perhaps it was an ego thing, but standing in front of Bruce made him conscious of his own appearance. Clark straightened his black tie and squared his shoulders.
“Mr. Wayne,” he greeted the slightly older gentleman. “I’m Clark Kent.”
“And I’m Lois Lane,” Lois interjected before shaking his hand.
Clark waited for the light of recognition to brighten Wayne’s eyes. Nothing. He didn’t expect Bruce to recognize him. He was the new kid on the block. It surprised him when people didn’t recognize Lois. She was one of the most prolific journalists in the field. Bruce gave them each a courteous smile as he shook their hands.
“Lois Lane,” Bruce said, finally. His eyes narrowed as he tried to recall where he heard the name before. “Daily Planet… right?”
Lois smiled. “Yes. I did that write up on you a few years back on the donation to the Gotham Orphanage.”
Bruce snapped his fingers and flashed her a charming grin. “I remember. Good article.”
“You’re only saying that because I had only good things to say about you.”
Bruce continued to grin as he looked down at Lois. “Flattery gets you a long way.”
Clark watched the exchange between his girlfriend and Bruce. He wasn’t the jealous type, but this was Bruce Wayne. His eyes flickered toward the woman standing next to the businessman. She was extremely attractive. And extremely bored. Her eyes wandered around the room as she ignored them.
“Pardon my rudeness. Ms. Lane, Mr…?
“Kent,” Clark offered.
“Kent. Right. You did the story on the Meteors, Nationals Game a few weeks back?”
Clark nodded. It impressed him that Bruce Wayne recalled his story from weeks ago. Metropolis' star quarterback, Victor Stone winning the championship was a big deal. But he didn’t expect for Bruce Wayne to remember a story buried deep on page six of The Daily Planet.
“Good game. Anyway, where are my manners? Lois, Clark, this is my friend, Talia Head.”
The woman’s eyes flickered over Lois and Clark with distant interest. Her lips lifted into a quiet knowing smile. “I was starting to feel like chopped liver,” she said looking up at her companion. “Ms. Lane, I read your last article on Metropolis’ venture into clean energy. It was very informative. But secret,” She leaned forward as if to divulge a great mystery, Dr. Dabney is a bit of an…eccentric.”
Lois snorted back laughter. “That’s putting it politely.”
“Talia is the lead scientist for Lex Corp,” Bruce said. He placed his arms around Talia’s waist. There was a hint of pride and frustration in his voice.
Clark’s gaze flickered between the couple. “Lex Corp is Wayne enterprises direct competitor in several business sectors. How does that affect your relationship?” Clark asked putting on his reporter's cap.
Bruce leaned back on his heels and smirked. “Are you trying to get a story out of me, Mr. Kent? I haven’t had nearly enough alcohol yet.”
“Why don’t we let the men hash it out,” Talia said, linking her arm with Lois. “We can go over the finer points of Donny’s research,” she said while leading Lois away.
“Oh, and here I thought you were just going to go gossip like school girls,” Bruce called out to her.
“The world doesn’t revolve around you, Bruce.” Talia’s rich laughter trailed behind her.
Bruce shook his head and watched both women walk away. Bruce sighed and directed his attention back to Clark. “So, you’re here for a story?”
Clark cleared his throat. “Well, not exactly. But I am writing a story on the Wayne Medical plaza coming to Suicide Slum. And it wouldn’t hurt to talk to the man himself about it.”
Bruce grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing waiter. “How about this? You make an appointment with my office and we can have a real sit-down conversation about the plaza. This is a historic venture for Wayne Enterprises. It’s not only part of my father’s vision, but it’s also his legacy. I'd like to be prepared when I talk about it with you.”
That was fair. He had done his research on Thomas Wayne. Before his tragic murder, he had been working on setting up hospitals in major cities. Each would offer free healthcare to lower-income families and individuals. Clark admired the late Thomas Wayne. He’d been a little skeptical of Bruce Wayne. Unlike his father, the businessman was more of a playboy, socialite. He threw money around to various charities, donated to various social organizations. On paper, he was a model citizen, if not detached from reality. Clark wanted a chance to get to know the man behind the mask.
“I’ll get on that.”
“Good. I like your style, Clark. You seem to care about what you do. I’ll make sure to keep my schedule open.” Bruce looked out onto the crowd. “Do you drink? He gave Clark a quick once over. “No, you don’t drink,” he said with a chuckle. “But I could use a drink,” he said leading the way towards the nearest bar.
Clark didn’t drink. Well, he didn’t drink hard alcohol. He didn’t like doing anything that impaired his judgment. Even though it would take a lot of alcohol to get him tipsy, he still didn’t risk it. His parents weren’t drinkers and he never saw the appeal of it. He did have a occasional glass of wine with Lois or a beer while watching a game. That was the extent of his drinking.
“Clark Kent.”
Clark closed his eyes briefly and took a calming breath. He recognized the voice right away. He had hoped to make it through the night without laying eyes on him. Clark pushed off the bar and turned around to face the man of the hour. “Mr. Luthor,” he deadpanned.
“And Bruce Wayne.” Lex’s gaze flickered between both men with amusement in his eyes. “Clark Kent meets Bruce Wayne.”
Clark’s eyes narrowed. He studied the look on Luthor’s face. There was a joke here, but he didn’t know the punchline. Clark closed his eyes again. A wave of nausea suddenly gripped his stomach. His knees grew weak as another wave passed over him. Nausea? Was he getting a bug? Impossible. He didn’t get sick. Ever.
“Lex,” Bruce said. He leaned against the bar casually. The look on his face matched his body language. He was supremely unimpressed with their host. “Nice party.”
“It’s more than a party, Bruce. As you know all proceeds go to the Clean Water Fund. If everyone is as generous with their checkbooks as you are, we’ll have enough clean water for generations.”
“Of course,” Bruce grabbed a champagne glass from the bar. “In fact, someone needs to say something about that.” Clark watched as Bruce walked to the center of the crowd and tapped his hand against his glass. “Can I get everyone’s attention?!” He called out. “Your attention, please.”
The crowd paused and turned their gazes toward Bruce. While everyone' attention was on Bruce Wayne, Clark leaned against the bar and took a few breaths. The feeling of nausea grew stronger with every moment. His head was pounding and beads of sweat cropped up along his hairline. He tried concentrating on what Bruce was saying, but all he could think about was finding a place to sit and rest.
“As you all know Wayne Enterprises and Lex Corp are fierce competitors. But tonight, I join you all as a fellow global citizen dedicated to bettering our planet for everyone. Tonight, we’re here for the children of the world. But, let’s give it up for the man who made this all possible, Lex Luthor,” Bruce said with a smirk. “The man, the visionary, the philanthropist. Here’s to you.” Bruce gestured toward Lex with his champagne glass. The crowd broke out into strong applause. Bruce nodded his head and continued to clap before returning to the bar.
“That was quite a show,” Lex said.
Bruce took a sip of his champagne. “What can I say, you deserve it.” His voice dripped with sarcasm.
“I guess we’re letting bygones be bygones tonight, eh?”
“You could say that. I’m willing to extend an olive branch for a good cause. Although Wayne Enterprises has been working on its own clean water fund for years.”
“There can never be too many charities,” Lex said. “It’s not like you haven’t borrowed ideas from me in the past. And I’m willing to give you a pass on trying to poach one of my best scientists.”
Bruce chuckled and took a casual sip of his drink. “Talia does what she wants, Lex. And she wants to work for you. Though I can’t for the life of me understand why.”
Lex barked out a short laugh before glancing over at Clark. “Are you alright, Mr. Kent. You’re looking a little green around the gills.”
Clark nodded his head. He wasn’t alright. He wanted to lay down somewhere. “I’m fine, he squeezed out.”
Bruce frowned with concern. “You don’t look fine.” He glanced around the room until he spotted Talia and gestured her over.
As soon as Lois saw Clark, she knew something was wrong. “Clark are you alright?” He nodded his head and sagged against her. Lois looked up with confusion in her eyes. “Lex, is there any place I can take him?”
Lex studied Clark with shrewd curiosity. “Yes, there’s a lounge area where he can sit.” He gestured with his right hand, flashing a green gemstone.
Lois nodded and wrapped her arm around Clark’s waist. “Thanks.”
“Here, let me help,” Bruce said, placing his hand on Clark’s back.
He let them lead him away from the party to a secluded spot in another wing of the museum. There were white lounge chairs and sofas set up for party goers to relax. By the time Clark sat down, he was feeling much better. Lois sat beside him and stroked his back, comforting him.
“I’ll get him some water,” Talia volunteered before disappearing back into the crowd.
“Is he alright?” Bruce asked Lois concerned. One minute the reporter had been fine. The next he was ready to pass out.
Lois bobbed her head. “He’ll be fine. Must be a bug. It’s been going around.”
Talia returned with a bottle of cold water and handed it to Clark. He mumbled out a quiet thanks and chugged it down. His brain still was foggy, but he was exceptionally better now that he was away from Lex. Lex. He was fine up until Lex Luthor came along. Could the businessman somehow be responsible for his temporary moment of weakness? But how? He never experienced anything like that before. Even as a child he never got sick. Never caught a cold. Could it be a reaction to stress? he thought to himself. Maybe. But he’d never had reactions to stress either. Still, there was a first time for everything.
“I’m fine,” Clark said, finally. He stood up and straightened his tie. “Just had a temporary moment of dizziness. Must have been the champagne.”
Bruce raised a brow. “Make sure he doesn’t get any more to drink, Ms. Lane. It seems our friend is a lightweight.”
Lois gave Bruce a wan smile. “It might be time to head home anyway. I’m feeling a little tired.”
“Make sure you get with my office,” Bruce reminded Clark as he and Lois walked away.
“I will.”
Lois guided them to a quiet corner away from the party. She waited for a couple to pass out of earshot before speaking again. “Clark are you okay?”
He nodded his head. “I’m fine. I just had a...moment back there.”
Lois’ brow creased with concern as she studied his face. “Are you sure? Maybe we should go to the doctor?”
Clark shook his head and chuckled. “No. A doctor can’t help me. I don’t get sick, remember? This was something…else.” Clark pressed his lips into a thin line. He hated that feeling. It had only lasted a few minutes, but it was enough to make him question everything. He’d only felt like that way once before and it was on Zod’s spaceship. Why did it happen again? And here? He was nowhere near the Kryptonian atmosphere. Clark rubbed the pad of his thumb against Lois’ cheek. “I’ll be alright, Lo. Let’s head back to the party.”
“Are you sure?”
He nodded his head. “I’m sure. Whatever it was it’s gone now. Besides, we wanted to keep an eye on Lex. Can’t do that if we’re sitting at home.”
“Okay… but if it happens again…” her voice trailed.
++++
Lex watched as Bruce Wayne and Lois navigated Clark through the crowd. If I didn’t know better…he thought to himself. He studied the alien for months. As far as he knew, Superman couldn’t get sick. But could Clark Kent get sick? Did his physiology somehow change when he took off the blue tights? Interesting. Unlike Gotham’s cape crusader, Metropolis’ brand of superhero was also superhuman. He wished he could get a sample of the alien’s DNA. He’d have Talia run some test.
Lex twirled the meteorite he had fashioned into a ring around his finger. One project at a time, he reminded himself. Talia was still working on testing the green rock. If his hypothesis was correct, they could use the meteor as a weapon against the alien. He looked down at the ring on his finger. It had only a fraction of the space rock and seemed to influence Clark. If this was true, he could only imagine what a larger piece would do to the alien. Lex motioned for his assistant.
“Ms. Graves,” he said, once she was beside him. “I have a job for you.”
“Yes, Mr. Luthor.”
“Come with me. Let’s discuss the details in private,” he said steering her away from the party.
Storyline: Man of Steel A New Hope [AO3]
Characters: Clark Kent (Kal-El) & Lois Lane, Bruce Wayne, Talia Head (Al Ghul), Lex Luthor
Prompt: #030 Writer's Choice (secrets)
100promptsRating: PG
Word Count: 3650
Fandom: Superman/DC/DCEU
Summary:Clark’s eyes narrowed. He studied the look on Luthor’s face. There was a joke here, but he didn’t know the punchline. Clark closed his eyes again. A wave of nausea suddenly gripped his stomach. His knees grew weak as another wave passed over him. Nausea? Was he getting a bug? Impossible. He didn’t get sick. Ever.
A/N: One of the biggest issues I had with Batman v. Superman was the dynamic between Superman/Clark and Batman/Bruce Wayne. Although the two are highly competitive, I never sensed any hate or animosity between them in the comics or in the animated universe. In fact, in Rebirth, it is explicitly stated that Bruce Wayne is Superman's best friend. While I understand that it took years of partnership to establish this friendship, I feel like Batman v. Superman made their mashup in Justice League implausible. I wanted to establish a mutual respect between Clark and Bruce in this chapter. Although Clark has his reservations, there is no hostility between them.
A few additional notes about Batman: This is not the Batman from BvS or Justice League. I'm not a fan of Batfleck. This Batman would be closer to Bale's Batman in the Nolan Trilogy but with much better detective skills. This would put him as only a few years older than Clark. Because he is not that older battle scared Batman, he does not have the same story arch as the Batman in BvS or JL. This change in characterization also changes his dynamic with Clark and Lex Luthor.
Talia Al Guhl- As previously mentioned, Talia is at a point in her life where she has become disenchanted with her father and goes by the name Talia Head. Bruce is aware of her real name and the two are in a relationship. Damien Wayne has not been born yet.
Metropolis- As established in many of the comics, Metropolis and Gotham are separated by a harbor. New Tory is like Manhattan. Glenmorgan Square is the Metropolis equivalent of Time Square. Suicide Slum is the bad part of New Troy.
Disclaimer: Not my characters. Story is mine.
Lex Luthor’s charity event was a who’s who of celebrities and the ultra-rich. The business tycoon hosted his “Night at the Met” event every year at the Metropolis Museum of Art. Celebrities from around the world flew in to showcase the latest fashions. And pretended to care about whatever charity was the current flavor of the month. This year all proceeds went toward the Lex Corp Clean Water Fund. It wasn’t lost on her that Lex went public with his clandestine charity only after she had questioned him about it. He thinks he’s so funny, the reporter thought to herself as she and Clark rode in the back of their rented town car. They were the only other people who knew the charity was a cover-up for his secret excavations in the Gaza Sea. The rest of the public still thought Lex Luthor was the city of Metropolis guardian angel. She wished she could tell everyone at the party that he was nothing more but a devil in sheep’s clothing.
“Is something bothering you, Lo?” Clark asked noticing the frown lines on her face.
Lois sighed and looked out the window. “These people have no idea,” she said.
Clark’s lips pressed into a thin line. He knew exactly who she was talking about without mentioning the name Lex Luthor. The couple shared similar concerns over the man. Exposing him was their number one priority. The possibility of Luthor knowing he was Superman put everyone he cared about at risk. Who knew to what extent Luthor would go to out him? He already planted a bomb on a train placing thousands of innocent lives at risk. They were close to uncovering the truth. Clark felt it in his gut.
“No, they don’t. Let them have their night of bland food and overpriced drinks. What happens in the dark always comes to the light.”
He had a point. Nothing stayed private in Metropolis very long. It barely took two days for word to leak to the press when Mayor Sakett moved his wife out of Lacie Mansion and his new mistress in. They were going to expose Lex Luther to the world. But tonight, she and Clark would dance, eat his bland food and drink his overpriced drinks for a good cause. They’d even get a chance to rub elbows with all the people from lifestyles of the rich and famous.
“So, I’ve counted about 5 Lamborghini’s ahead of us,” she said. It was her attempt to lightening up the solemn mood in the car. “That should place us at about an hour late by the time we get through security.”
“Fashionably, late, Lo. Besides, everyone knows the party doesn’t get started until after midnight anyway.”
Lois squinted her eyes at Clark. “What do you know about parties, Smallville?” She teased.
“Hey, I’m known to attend a few hootenannies in my day. A couple of shindigs here and there,” he joked making Lois laugh.
“Somehow, I cannot imagine you hooting or nannying near any shindigs.”
Clark’s chest rumbled with laughter. “Smallville is a little town, but we have our moments.”
Lois eyed him suspiciously in the dim car. “Sure, you do. Somehow Clark Kent partying at an all-night kegger seems as fake as superman fanfiction.”
Clark's head swayed in disbelief. “I still can’t believe people actually write fictional stories about Superman.”
Lois nodded. “Oh yeah, and some of it is so deliciously bad, it’s good. I especially like the ones where you’re like this bodice ripping, Fabio. It’s so retro.”
The couple laughed together with ease. Lois loved hearing Clark laugh. Things at work and in life were so tense lately. She rarely got to see him crack a smile. He was doing that brooding thing he used to do when they initially met. The sooner they figured out Lex’s plan, the sooner they could get their lives back to normal. Or as normal as their lives were ever going to be. Until then, what was one night of decadence? It was a shame their long overdue night out was associated with Lex Luthor.
Clark exited the town car first and helped Lois onto the red carpet. Blinding lights flashed from multiple directions. Clark placed his hand on her lower back and steered them toward the entrance. Once the paparazzi noticed their press badges, they lost interest in the two journalist. Lois bit back a smile and looked up at Clark.
“It looks like we haven’t made it yet,” she joked.
Clark gave her hand a gentle squeeze and laughed. “They’ll regret not getting a picture of Lois Lane Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist.”
“This must be how Rob Kardashian feels.”
Clark shook his head and snorted out a laugh. I love her. The thought formed in his mind without any preamble. Clark looked down at Lois and his heart swelled with emotion. She was frowning at their invitations while trying to figure out which entrance belonged to the press pool. He wondered if she had any idea how beautiful she looked when she was concentrating. He started to tell her, but the security guard motioned him to step forward for the security checks. The stone-faced security guard patted him down and let him pass. Lois joined him a few seconds later and they walked into the museum arm in arm.
The scene was something out of a movie. Members of the glitterati huddled together in their thousand-dollar designer clothes. Bits of gossip mixed with laughter. A live band played jazz covers of popular songs as the other guests mingled in the crowded hall. Clark pulled his glasses down the bridge of his nose and did a quick scan of the room. Everyone was safe and unarmed.
“So, I wonder where our gracious host is.” his tone dripped with sarcasm.
“Probably around here ruining lives. I’m sure we’ll have the misfortune of bumping into him sooner or later,” Lois replied.
“Let’s hope not.” Clark let out an audible sigh. He meant every word.
Lois was one of the few people who shared his dislike for Lex Luthor. Everyone treated the businessman like he was the second coming. No one ever challenged his questionable actions or dug deeper into his business deals. In their eyes, he was the man who had single handily restored Metropolis. The man could literally stand at the center of Glenmorgan Square and shoot someone and people would still vote for him as president. Lex Luthor was a very twisted man and so were his most avid supporters.
The couple moved through the crowd of guests until they were on the dance floor. He rested his hands on the dip of Lois’ back and moved in time to the music. He took a moment to admire her again. She looked incredible that night. The last few weeks had been non-stop insanity. Between their jobs at The Planet and his duties as Superman, neither had a moment to breathe.
“He’s here,” Lois said nudging Clark.
Clark swiveled his head around in different directions. “Who?”
“Bruce Wayne. He just walked in.”
The Gothamite was standing at the edge of the crowd with a woman he didn’t recognize. As soon as Wayne entered the room the atmosphere shifted, and all eyes were on him while he greeted other guests. Bruce Wayne was a presence, and the Wayne Foundation was a tour de force. If Lex was Metropolis’ man about town, Wayne would be his Gotham counter-part. Although his reputation suffered a bit after he burned down Wayne Manner.
“Let’s go introduce ourselves before he gets mobbed,” Clark said.
He’d only seen the Gotham native on television and magazines. Clark realized seeing Bruce Wayne in person was a different experience. It made him aware of his own physicality compared to the billionaire. Since becoming Superman, Clark had to be careful about protecting his identity. As part of his disguise, he changed the way he styled his hair, his gait, speech pattern, and even his posture. He often stood with his shoulders hunched over, so he could appear shorter than his alter-ego. Perhaps it was an ego thing, but standing in front of Bruce made him conscious of his own appearance. Clark straightened his black tie and squared his shoulders.
“Mr. Wayne,” he greeted the slightly older gentleman. “I’m Clark Kent.”
“And I’m Lois Lane,” Lois interjected before shaking his hand.
Clark waited for the light of recognition to brighten Wayne’s eyes. Nothing. He didn’t expect Bruce to recognize him. He was the new kid on the block. It surprised him when people didn’t recognize Lois. She was one of the most prolific journalists in the field. Bruce gave them each a courteous smile as he shook their hands.
“Lois Lane,” Bruce said, finally. His eyes narrowed as he tried to recall where he heard the name before. “Daily Planet… right?”
Lois smiled. “Yes. I did that write up on you a few years back on the donation to the Gotham Orphanage.”
Bruce snapped his fingers and flashed her a charming grin. “I remember. Good article.”
“You’re only saying that because I had only good things to say about you.”
Bruce continued to grin as he looked down at Lois. “Flattery gets you a long way.”
Clark watched the exchange between his girlfriend and Bruce. He wasn’t the jealous type, but this was Bruce Wayne. His eyes flickered toward the woman standing next to the businessman. She was extremely attractive. And extremely bored. Her eyes wandered around the room as she ignored them.
“Pardon my rudeness. Ms. Lane, Mr…?
“Kent,” Clark offered.
“Kent. Right. You did the story on the Meteors, Nationals Game a few weeks back?”
Clark nodded. It impressed him that Bruce Wayne recalled his story from weeks ago. Metropolis' star quarterback, Victor Stone winning the championship was a big deal. But he didn’t expect for Bruce Wayne to remember a story buried deep on page six of The Daily Planet.
“Good game. Anyway, where are my manners? Lois, Clark, this is my friend, Talia Head.”
The woman’s eyes flickered over Lois and Clark with distant interest. Her lips lifted into a quiet knowing smile. “I was starting to feel like chopped liver,” she said looking up at her companion. “Ms. Lane, I read your last article on Metropolis’ venture into clean energy. It was very informative. But secret,” She leaned forward as if to divulge a great mystery, Dr. Dabney is a bit of an…eccentric.”
Lois snorted back laughter. “That’s putting it politely.”
“Talia is the lead scientist for Lex Corp,” Bruce said. He placed his arms around Talia’s waist. There was a hint of pride and frustration in his voice.
Clark’s gaze flickered between the couple. “Lex Corp is Wayne enterprises direct competitor in several business sectors. How does that affect your relationship?” Clark asked putting on his reporter's cap.
Bruce leaned back on his heels and smirked. “Are you trying to get a story out of me, Mr. Kent? I haven’t had nearly enough alcohol yet.”
“Why don’t we let the men hash it out,” Talia said, linking her arm with Lois. “We can go over the finer points of Donny’s research,” she said while leading Lois away.
“Oh, and here I thought you were just going to go gossip like school girls,” Bruce called out to her.
“The world doesn’t revolve around you, Bruce.” Talia’s rich laughter trailed behind her.
Bruce shook his head and watched both women walk away. Bruce sighed and directed his attention back to Clark. “So, you’re here for a story?”
Clark cleared his throat. “Well, not exactly. But I am writing a story on the Wayne Medical plaza coming to Suicide Slum. And it wouldn’t hurt to talk to the man himself about it.”
Bruce grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing waiter. “How about this? You make an appointment with my office and we can have a real sit-down conversation about the plaza. This is a historic venture for Wayne Enterprises. It’s not only part of my father’s vision, but it’s also his legacy. I'd like to be prepared when I talk about it with you.”
That was fair. He had done his research on Thomas Wayne. Before his tragic murder, he had been working on setting up hospitals in major cities. Each would offer free healthcare to lower-income families and individuals. Clark admired the late Thomas Wayne. He’d been a little skeptical of Bruce Wayne. Unlike his father, the businessman was more of a playboy, socialite. He threw money around to various charities, donated to various social organizations. On paper, he was a model citizen, if not detached from reality. Clark wanted a chance to get to know the man behind the mask.
“I’ll get on that.”
“Good. I like your style, Clark. You seem to care about what you do. I’ll make sure to keep my schedule open.” Bruce looked out onto the crowd. “Do you drink? He gave Clark a quick once over. “No, you don’t drink,” he said with a chuckle. “But I could use a drink,” he said leading the way towards the nearest bar.
Clark didn’t drink. Well, he didn’t drink hard alcohol. He didn’t like doing anything that impaired his judgment. Even though it would take a lot of alcohol to get him tipsy, he still didn’t risk it. His parents weren’t drinkers and he never saw the appeal of it. He did have a occasional glass of wine with Lois or a beer while watching a game. That was the extent of his drinking.
“Clark Kent.”
Clark closed his eyes briefly and took a calming breath. He recognized the voice right away. He had hoped to make it through the night without laying eyes on him. Clark pushed off the bar and turned around to face the man of the hour. “Mr. Luthor,” he deadpanned.
“And Bruce Wayne.” Lex’s gaze flickered between both men with amusement in his eyes. “Clark Kent meets Bruce Wayne.”
Clark’s eyes narrowed. He studied the look on Luthor’s face. There was a joke here, but he didn’t know the punchline. Clark closed his eyes again. A wave of nausea suddenly gripped his stomach. His knees grew weak as another wave passed over him. Nausea? Was he getting a bug? Impossible. He didn’t get sick. Ever.
“Lex,” Bruce said. He leaned against the bar casually. The look on his face matched his body language. He was supremely unimpressed with their host. “Nice party.”
“It’s more than a party, Bruce. As you know all proceeds go to the Clean Water Fund. If everyone is as generous with their checkbooks as you are, we’ll have enough clean water for generations.”
“Of course,” Bruce grabbed a champagne glass from the bar. “In fact, someone needs to say something about that.” Clark watched as Bruce walked to the center of the crowd and tapped his hand against his glass. “Can I get everyone’s attention?!” He called out. “Your attention, please.”
The crowd paused and turned their gazes toward Bruce. While everyone' attention was on Bruce Wayne, Clark leaned against the bar and took a few breaths. The feeling of nausea grew stronger with every moment. His head was pounding and beads of sweat cropped up along his hairline. He tried concentrating on what Bruce was saying, but all he could think about was finding a place to sit and rest.
“As you all know Wayne Enterprises and Lex Corp are fierce competitors. But tonight, I join you all as a fellow global citizen dedicated to bettering our planet for everyone. Tonight, we’re here for the children of the world. But, let’s give it up for the man who made this all possible, Lex Luthor,” Bruce said with a smirk. “The man, the visionary, the philanthropist. Here’s to you.” Bruce gestured toward Lex with his champagne glass. The crowd broke out into strong applause. Bruce nodded his head and continued to clap before returning to the bar.
“That was quite a show,” Lex said.
Bruce took a sip of his champagne. “What can I say, you deserve it.” His voice dripped with sarcasm.
“I guess we’re letting bygones be bygones tonight, eh?”
“You could say that. I’m willing to extend an olive branch for a good cause. Although Wayne Enterprises has been working on its own clean water fund for years.”
“There can never be too many charities,” Lex said. “It’s not like you haven’t borrowed ideas from me in the past. And I’m willing to give you a pass on trying to poach one of my best scientists.”
Bruce chuckled and took a casual sip of his drink. “Talia does what she wants, Lex. And she wants to work for you. Though I can’t for the life of me understand why.”
Lex barked out a short laugh before glancing over at Clark. “Are you alright, Mr. Kent. You’re looking a little green around the gills.”
Clark nodded his head. He wasn’t alright. He wanted to lay down somewhere. “I’m fine, he squeezed out.”
Bruce frowned with concern. “You don’t look fine.” He glanced around the room until he spotted Talia and gestured her over.
As soon as Lois saw Clark, she knew something was wrong. “Clark are you alright?” He nodded his head and sagged against her. Lois looked up with confusion in her eyes. “Lex, is there any place I can take him?”
Lex studied Clark with shrewd curiosity. “Yes, there’s a lounge area where he can sit.” He gestured with his right hand, flashing a green gemstone.
Lois nodded and wrapped her arm around Clark’s waist. “Thanks.”
“Here, let me help,” Bruce said, placing his hand on Clark’s back.
He let them lead him away from the party to a secluded spot in another wing of the museum. There were white lounge chairs and sofas set up for party goers to relax. By the time Clark sat down, he was feeling much better. Lois sat beside him and stroked his back, comforting him.
“I’ll get him some water,” Talia volunteered before disappearing back into the crowd.
“Is he alright?” Bruce asked Lois concerned. One minute the reporter had been fine. The next he was ready to pass out.
Lois bobbed her head. “He’ll be fine. Must be a bug. It’s been going around.”
Talia returned with a bottle of cold water and handed it to Clark. He mumbled out a quiet thanks and chugged it down. His brain still was foggy, but he was exceptionally better now that he was away from Lex. Lex. He was fine up until Lex Luthor came along. Could the businessman somehow be responsible for his temporary moment of weakness? But how? He never experienced anything like that before. Even as a child he never got sick. Never caught a cold. Could it be a reaction to stress? he thought to himself. Maybe. But he’d never had reactions to stress either. Still, there was a first time for everything.
“I’m fine,” Clark said, finally. He stood up and straightened his tie. “Just had a temporary moment of dizziness. Must have been the champagne.”
Bruce raised a brow. “Make sure he doesn’t get any more to drink, Ms. Lane. It seems our friend is a lightweight.”
Lois gave Bruce a wan smile. “It might be time to head home anyway. I’m feeling a little tired.”
“Make sure you get with my office,” Bruce reminded Clark as he and Lois walked away.
“I will.”
Lois guided them to a quiet corner away from the party. She waited for a couple to pass out of earshot before speaking again. “Clark are you okay?”
He nodded his head. “I’m fine. I just had a...moment back there.”
Lois’ brow creased with concern as she studied his face. “Are you sure? Maybe we should go to the doctor?”
Clark shook his head and chuckled. “No. A doctor can’t help me. I don’t get sick, remember? This was something…else.” Clark pressed his lips into a thin line. He hated that feeling. It had only lasted a few minutes, but it was enough to make him question everything. He’d only felt like that way once before and it was on Zod’s spaceship. Why did it happen again? And here? He was nowhere near the Kryptonian atmosphere. Clark rubbed the pad of his thumb against Lois’ cheek. “I’ll be alright, Lo. Let’s head back to the party.”
“Are you sure?”
He nodded his head. “I’m sure. Whatever it was it’s gone now. Besides, we wanted to keep an eye on Lex. Can’t do that if we’re sitting at home.”
“Okay… but if it happens again…” her voice trailed.
++++
Lex watched as Bruce Wayne and Lois navigated Clark through the crowd. If I didn’t know better…he thought to himself. He studied the alien for months. As far as he knew, Superman couldn’t get sick. But could Clark Kent get sick? Did his physiology somehow change when he took off the blue tights? Interesting. Unlike Gotham’s cape crusader, Metropolis’ brand of superhero was also superhuman. He wished he could get a sample of the alien’s DNA. He’d have Talia run some test.
Lex twirled the meteorite he had fashioned into a ring around his finger. One project at a time, he reminded himself. Talia was still working on testing the green rock. If his hypothesis was correct, they could use the meteor as a weapon against the alien. He looked down at the ring on his finger. It had only a fraction of the space rock and seemed to influence Clark. If this was true, he could only imagine what a larger piece would do to the alien. Lex motioned for his assistant.
“Ms. Graves,” he said, once she was beside him. “I have a job for you.”
“Yes, Mr. Luthor.”
“Come with me. Let’s discuss the details in private,” he said steering her away from the party.
