Simple Things (PG-13)

[sydsvaughn]

Title: Simple Things
Author: SaraC
Rating: PG-13
Spoilers: Future fic, AU
Summary: Lex asks Chloe to help him enjoy the 'simple things' in life and gets more than he bargained for.

Disclaimer: Not mine. Don't own 'em, never will. A damn shame that is.

Notes: Probably a bit OOC, but this is fluffy fun with a little angst for fun. Suspend disbelief and enjoy Chlex fluff!

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Ch. 1-My Best Friends Wedding


Chloe Sullivan sighed as she pulled the bag of popcorn from the microwave and dumped it into a bowl. After adding the requisite amount of salt, she grabbed a soda and headed into the living room, settling down on the couch and flipping on the TV.

She looked around, noting how quiet her home seemed. Lana and Clark were closing the Talon and then catching a late dinner and her father was out of town on a business trip. The Torch was put to bed and for once, there were no outstanding stories to follow up on or finish. As she flipped aimlessly through the channels she found herself wishing Pete was around to make fun of any one of the numerous reality shows she abhorred. Well, except for "Joe Millionaire" although she'd deny it to her dying day. But Pete was out on a date as well, a usual occurrence for a Friday night. So it looked like another Friday night with nothing but re-runs of "The Pretender" and her stash of Ewan McGregor movies.

Not that she was complaining mind you. At least the image of Jarod flirting with Miss Parker, or Christian singing heart-stoppingly of his love for Satine might help keep her mind off the one person she really, really wished was sitting next to her. She sighed as her thoughts wandered down that all too familiar path.

She could picture him now, his dark eyes trying to hide amusement as she rambled on about her latest meteor theory. That extremely kissable mouth tilting up at the corners as he finally caved and smiled at her. The feel of his soft, sensitive skin as her fingertips brushed against the back of his neck as she danced with him at the blow-out Halloween party he'd thrown for the town a few months ago. She could still feel his strong arms wrapped around her waist, cocooning her against his body.

Those same strong arms that were most likely right now holding the doctor he was engaged to. She felt the depression wash over her as she realized that he would never look at her the way he looked at Helen. As a desirable woman. As a woman he could love as much as she loved him. She felt her heart ache as she realized that once again, she'd fallen for someone who wanted someone else. First Clark, now Lex. Although what she thought she'd felt for Clark paled in comparison to the feelings she'd developed for Lex over the past year. Feelings that had probably been there since they'd first met almost four years ago but had only emerged as she'd finally gotten over Clark and opened her eyes to the man who had slowly replaced him in her heart.

She'd been upset that Clark and Lana had finally gotten together and had been drowning her sorrows in cup after cup of coffee at The Talon one night. Lex had spotted her, noted her sadness and made her tell him what was wrong. From then on, he'd made it his mission to cheer her up and to her surprise, it had worked. She'd begun spending more time with him and less moping over Clark. Lex hadn't minded, he actually seemed to enjoy their verbal judo matches and made efforts to conduct them often. As she'd gotten more comfortable with him, she'd opened up to him about her feelings for Clark, only to find it didn't hurt as much to talk about it and through his advice she'd begun to realize that what she felt for Clark was not love, at least not the deep, abiding, lasting kind she'd always dreamed of finding.

The kind of love she'd come to realize she felt for Lex. She'd learned more about him in the past few years than she suspected most people would ever know. And along the way, she'd managed to fall in love with him. She knew no one would believe she could feel something for Lex, since everyone had him pigeonholed as the "evil stepson" of Lionel. Well, everyone except for Clark and Lana, but even they didn’t know him the way she did. And yes, Lex Luthor had some major darkness inside of him, but he wasn't evil. It was the darkness, that knowledge that he could be ruthless when it came to protecting the people he cared about, that made her love him even more. She really didn't want to analyze why however.

All she knew was that she'd stupidly fallen for him, which made it more unbearable to watch his relationship with Helen progress. It killed her to see the older woman with the man she loved, laughing, talking, and most painfully, kissing. Her heart had shattered the day he'd announced their engagement. He'd been so happy and she'd had to smile and offer her congratulations. Her heart had stopped as he pulled her into a spontaneous hug, wanting her to share his joy. All it had done was give her a taste of what she would never have. But she'd managed to hide her pain and congratulate him, seeing he honestly appeared happy with his choice.

She'd been shocked when Lex and Helen had asked her to cover the wedding for the Torch and handle the media coverage of the entire event. She wasn't sure why they wanted a high school senior to handle such an event, but when she'd realized they were serious, she'd jumped at the chance. At first she'd been enthused at what this would do to her hopes of a good internship over the summer before she entered Met U. But a second later the gut-wrenching reality had hit. She'd have to watch Lex and Helen fawning over each other, planning for the life she longed for, but would never have. A life with Lex.

She'd also been suspicious of Helen's offer, because she had never gone out of her way to talk to the woman, other than polite greetings when she would appear with Lex. But they both apparently wanted her expert writing and organizational skills, and contacts throughout Smallville to help cover the wedding at the manor. In one of the stupidest moves she'd made, she'd actually agreed. At the time, she’d foolishly thought it would get her even closer to Lex, make him see that he could love her. Well, it had brought them closer, but not in the way she’d hoped.

It sounded odd, especially when said about a Luthor, but she knew Lex considered her one of his few trusted friends. Not that he had many, her, Clark and Lana among the few. He’d only recently admitted to her how much her friendship meant to him, surprising the hell out of her. Lex Luthor did not admit to having emotions, and while the declaration had been spontaneous and cloaked in their usual verbal judo, she knew he'd meant it. And while it had given her a spark of hope at the same time it crushed her spirits. Sure he might think of her as a friend, but it was still Helen he professed to love. She’d given up hope of that changing. They might have plenty of fun together, not that anyone would believe it of Lex, and the undercurrents were as obvious as night and day, but Lex obviously wasn’t ready to see them. Or he simply didn't want to. She was beginning to doubt he ever would.

But if she couldn’t have his love, at least she could have his friendship. It would have to do. It might kill her inside but she’d rather die slowly, having him as a friend rather than not having him in her life at all. So how did one adapt to being only a ‘friend’ to the man one loved? She should have had an answer, having a Clark obsession for years, but that had been different. She didn't feel for Clark half of what she felt for Lex. She knew that now. She brushed away a tear as the melancholy thoughts invaded her mind, forcing herself to try and get her mind off Lex.

As she tried to focus, she suddenly became aware of the movie playing on her screen. She smiled at the strange sense of humor fate had for her tonight. Wouldn’t it figure she’d land on “My Best Friend’s Wedding” tonight of all nights. It was one of her favorite movies, now it took on an even deeper meaning. She sighed as she settled in to watch the movie, figuring she might as well. No one was home to see her cry as she knew she would by the end. That was one benefit to being home alone on a Friday night.

She was laughing and rooting right along with Julia as she tried to tell her best friend how she felt, when she heard a knock on the door. Frowning, she checked the clock which read 11PM. She shuffled to the door and pulled it open, only to find herself staring into the eyes she’d been trying to forget all night.

“Lex?” She was surprised her voice sounded normal when her heart had suddenly started beating triple time in her chest.

“Hello Chloe, I hope you don’t mind me stopping by so late.”

Lex smiled as he offered the greeting, taking immediate notice of her outfit. He was surprised to find the sight of her wearing a fluffy, full-length bathrobe, sent a not so strange spark of awareness through him. He forced the feeling down, reminding himself she was his friend and he shouldn’t be thinking of her like that. Especially since he was an engaged man.

“No, not at all, is something wrong?” Chloe wondered what he was thinking as he simply stared at her in silence for a few moments. She looked down and realized what she was wearing. She could feel the blush creeping into her cheeks, but forced it down. She had every right to be wearing her bathrobe. It was nearly midnight and most people would be ready for bed by now anyhow. She told herself the quick spark she saw shoot through his eyes was only her overactive imagination.

“No, I just wondered if maybe you might feel like doing something, if you're not busy that is.”

Lex sighed at his words, knowing they sounded far too eager for a man of his age. He still was not sure why he was here, only knowing that something inside him had called to him, telling him he needed to spend some time with Chloe. Helen was out of town on hospital business and he was bored out of his mind anyhow. Somehow, he knew he’d find something fun to do with Chloe. Surprisingly, she provided a bright spot in his increasingly complicated life. Which should have scared him when he realized he actually looked forward to spending time with a thoroughly too distracting 18 year old.

“Let me guess. Helen's away and you’re bored and stressed with Luthor business, so you’re hoping I’ll invite you in and take your mind off things, right?” Chloe marveled she could read him so well as she noted his sheepish smile. Just another little thing he didn’t seem to notice. She sighed, opening the door and motioning him inside.

“I know it’s late, and you look like you’re ready for bed, I can always come back tomorrow,” Lex began, stopping as she smiled at him.

“Come on in. I’m not tired, I was just watching a movie and taking advantage of the fact that no one’s around tonight.” Without stopping to look back, she moved into the living room, knowing he was close behind. She gave herself a mental pep talk all the way, telling her heart to stop pounding and her breathing to even out.

“Ah, a movie night. You know, I've always heard of them, but never had the occasion to experience one. Do you care if I join you?” Lex was surprised at how nervous he felt about asking. After all, she had sounded like she wanted to be alone. Who knew if she’d want company? But he had to ask. Something inside him knew she’d say yes. He’d seen something in her eyes as she looked at him that had only reinforced his determination. He refused to think about the fact that he could read her so well. Better than he could read his own fiancée. He had to stop thinking like this!

Chloe looked at him like he was from another planet.

"You've never experienced a movie night? Come on Lex, as jaded as you are, even I know you have to have taken a night to watch a movie. You do like them, don't you?"

Lex shrugged his shoulders and gave her an enigmatic smile.

"Usually I'm too tired, or if I do watch a movie, it's always while doing work. I've never done the typical scene of sitting down with friends, eating popcorn and simply relaxing while watching a movie."

Chloe couldn't believe how sad that made her feel. Lex really didn't know how to relax. And coming from someone as stressed and obsessed with her reporting as she, that was saying something. Still, she figured it was only her duty to educate him.

"I hope your arteries are in good shape." She laughed at his confused look as she motioned to the huge bowl of popcorn on the table. "I probably put a lethal amount of butter and salt on it. Most health conscious, well built men would probably have a heart attack at the thought, not to mention a few women I know as well."

His low laughter stopped her musings as he settled onto the couch.

"You think I'm well built Chloe? Interesting. And I guess I'll have to prove to you that I'm definitely not like other men you know." He couldn't help but feel a slight satisfaction at the look in her eyes. It was nice to know his verbal judo could still unsettle her as much as hers could unsettle him. Seeing as she didn't look capable of replying, he continued as if nothing unusual had happened. “So, what are we watching?"

Chloe sighed, trying to push away thoughts of what exactly he COULD do to prove to her he wasn't like other men, although she hardly needed proof knowing him as well as she did. She suddenly remembered what she was watching and wondered if he’d seen it. Probably not if his earlier revelation was anything to go by. Still, she wondered if he’d read anything into it. Oh hell, she didn’t care. It was one of her favorite movies and she’d be damned if he didn’t like it. After all, he’d invaded her movie night.

“It’s “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” have you even heard of it?”

“I said I'd never participated in a "movie night" Chloe, not that I hadn't seen any movies. This is that Julia Roberts one right? It came out a few years ago,” he said, seeing her nod. “While I can't say I was first in line to see it, it looked rather amusing from the previews I saw one of the few times Helen allowed me inside a theater," he mused, missing the shock that appeared in Chloe’s eyes.

“Helen doesn’t allow you to go to movies?" She was surprised to hear Lex sound so passive about such a revealing statement. She was even more surprised to hear him sigh.

“Its just Helen. She’d rather wait until things come to DVD and watch it in the privacy of her own home without a crowd. Besides, she never liked movies all that much. She prefers theater and live performances. I guess that’s what she grew up with, so I can’t blame her,” he mused.

Chloe was now sure she'd entered Fantasyland. “So you’re telling me you let Helen dictate what you do for fun in your life, assuming you even know how to have fun? Gee, I never knew Lex Luthor was so willing to allow someone else to control him."

He looked at her with a raised eyebrow as he noted to acid in her remark, surprised that he took no offense at her tone. After all, she spoke the truth, much as it galled him to admit it. “I suppose I could find other ways to put it, but that pretty much sums it up.” He frowned as he noted the bite in his voice. He'd never realized how much Helen's attitude annoyed him.

“I feel sorry for you both then,” Chloe said with a sigh, seeing she had his full attention.

“Why?” He was truly curious to hear her answer.

“Well, because seeing a movie is one of the greatest pleasures in life. You can get lost in another world for a few hours. A world that’s filled with problems and trials, but usually always ends up okay in the end. Even if it doesn’t, you at least leave the theater feeling as if you’re glad that person’s life isn’t yours.”

She smiled as she saw him nod.

“I suppose you have a point. Not that anyone would believe it of me, but I remember when I was young, my mother and I would always go to a matinee at the Metropolis Cineplex each week. My father hated the fact we were "mixing" with the commoners as he called them, but he couldn’t stop us. It was the highlight of my week." He was so involved in the memory he missed the strange look that crossed the blonde's face.

Chloe's heart skipped a beat as he brought up something she'd always wondered about, but never had the courage to broach. Well, now obviously looked like a good time. “You remember those Wednesday matinees do you?” she asked with a grin, noting the surprise in his look.

“What did I miss?” He was even more confused when she burst into laughter.

“Obviously not much." She sobered as she noted his confused look. "When we lived in Metropolis, my mom would sometimes take me to those matinees as well. I was really young, probably about four or five, but that didn't stop her from taking me to the movies. Usually it was an old movie or an animated one, but it was our time, just mom and me. One day, we were standing in line at the candy counter after a movie and I saw a shiny quarter on the floor a little ways off. I wasn't looking where I was going and ran over to try and pick it up. Instead, I ran into you." She waited for a moment, to see if any comprehension dawned, telling herself not to feel upset when his eyes remained confused. Well, that answered that question as she'd suspected, he had no memory of their encounter at all. Even though it had always stuck in her head. One did not forget a run in with Lex Luthor, even at age four or five. And especially not with that shock of red hair.

Lex tried to hide his surprise, wracking his brain for even a vague memory of Chloe. He never forgot those movies with his mother, but how could he have forgotten Chloe? Granted she was young at the time, but still, someone as remarkable as her must have left some kind of a mark, even in his subconscious, even at age nine. Suddenly, a wisp of a memory hit and as it became clearer, he felt a smile spread across his face.

“I was with my mom on one of our weekly outings. We were standing in line for ice cream after a movie and I was looking at the poster above the counter. If I'm remembering right, this little girl barreled into me with the force of a hurricane. That was you?" He couldn't help but be amused at the look of disbelief and then joy that spread over her face. She really was remarkably easy to read.

"I don't think I was that strong, but I admit, I did pack a punch, even at that age." Chloe couldn't help the wonderful feeling sweeping her body as she realized that Lex did remember an experience that she had never forgotten.

Lex rubbed a finger against his chin as the memory became even clearer as he thought about it.

"I think you took my breath away, literally. Then you proceeded to ask me if all my hair was really mine or a wig. Blunt even at that age, but that comment stuck with me for years, especially after the meteor showers. I don't know why I didn't remember it was you." He smiled as he watched her eyes brighten, obviously happy that he remembered. He suddenly wished he'd never forgotten.

“I'm not surprised you didn't know it was me. I mean, come on Lex, I was a four or five year old child, probably the last thing on your mind was finding out my name, especially after I'd made that remark about your hair. Besides, at that age, I wouldn't have known who you were either. Although, since getting to know you over the past few years, and hearing about the red hair you used to have, I put two and two together and hoped for four. I've never forgotten that red-headed boy. He left as much of an impression as the older one has." Oops, she hadn't meant to say that. And she saw the question he wanted to ask in his eyes before he spoke. She had to change the subject, quickly. "Well, those outings not withstanding, I still feel sorry for you. You’ve missed a lot of great movies over the years.”

Lex sighed, deciding not to push the subject, but filed it away for later reference. Still, her final words hit home as he realized the truth in them. He’d missed a lot of things growing up a Luthor. He was surprised to find himself almost longing for those days they’d just been talking about. When the highlight of his week had been seeing a movie with his mother. When he’d taken time to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Before the damn meteor showers had taken his hair and his hope of a carefree childhood. The simple things in life. Things that he’d forgotten about in the busy, demanding life as the Luthor heir. Things that he was finding he wanted to remember more and more in the time he spent with Chloe. If someone had told him a year ago that he'd consider Chloe Sullivan one of his closest friends, he would have asked if they'd been exposed to a meteor rock for too long. Lex Luthor did not have many friends. Clark Kent had really been his only true friend in Smallville, until Chloe Sullivan had irresistibly worked her way into his life.

He hadn't been surprised to find Chloe crying over Clark that day in The Talon. He'd known, as he knew she had, that Lana was the only woman Clark was interested in. In fact, he'd done what he could to get his seemingly clueless friend to act on those feelings. Which was why he'd felt a slight sense of guilt as he watched Chloe suffer, even though he knew she'd have to resign herself to the reality of the situation sooner or later. Still, she'd looked so forlorn that he'd had to stop and at least try to make her feel better. He knew what it was like to desperately want the love of someone who didn't have a clue you existed. She'd been reluctant to talk about it at first, but when he'd gotten her to open up, it had all come pouring out. To his surprise, he hadn't felt embarrassed, only a little humbled that she actually would tell her problems to Lex Luthor, the man most people avoided. And it had felt good to feel needed, even for that one moment.

Since that meeting, he'd begun spending more time with her and as the years passed, had found she was the only person who could take what he dished out and give it back full force. Their verbal judo had slowly become the highlight of his long, tiring days at the office. Not to mention the way she would not let him feel sorry for himself, and he did the same for her. As their friendship had grown, he'd come to realize he could tell her anything and she wouldn't be intimidated. Even things that he didn't feel comfortable telling Clark, she seemed to understand. Maybe that was what intrigued him. She knew about some of the darker parts of his life, whether he'd told her or she'd found out through her innumerable story chasing escapades. But she didn't judge him for his shortcomings, although she would take him to task. Strangely, it felt good to have his little conscious looking over his shoulder and though he would never admit it to anyone, even her, it had stopped him from doing some things she had made him realize he would regret. And while she still tried to pry into LexCorp and LuthorCorp business, she had made him a deal not to print anything without his approval.

But while he and Chloe had grown close, they had been careful to not allow too many people to realize it. They both told each other it was because of the people who would disapprove if they knew the intrepid "young" reporter and the "multi-billionaire playboy" had become friends. But unspoken between them was the knowledge that neither wanted share their special friendship with anyone else.

Which was why he'd been shocked when Helen had asked him if he thought Chloe would consider taking on the media coverage for their wedding. She'd told him they were both so busy with work that they needed someone they could trust to deal with the publicity that would obviously surround the wedding, and take care of the little details they'd most assuredly forget. And since Chloe knew Smallville, knew Lex, and had made quite a name for herself with the Torch and several articles she'd published in the Planet over the past year, Helen thought she would be perfect. Besides, she'd also just finished her senior year and had the summer months free before heading off to college.

His immediate reaction had been suspicion. Helen didn't do things without reason, and he knew she hardly ever talked to Chloe. A polite hello if they ran into her when they were out was the normal reaction, although his fiancée knew that she and Lex were friends. And Helen was a rather jealous person, although she was very skilled at being subtle about it. So why would she actually want the pretty young woman in a situation where she'd see more of Lex? Still, after some careful probing, he'd realized Helen truly believed Chloe was no threat to her, seeing her as simply a "child" whom she felt she was doing her "duty" for in helping her achieve her reporting dreams. He'd decided not to tell Helen that he most definitely did not think of Chloe as a child. He'd also decided not to think about that knowledge himself because it brought up a host of issues he wasn't ready to address. Besides, he knew Chloe didn't like Helen, and he'd figured she'd refuse. But to his utter surprise, Chloe had agreed. Deep inside, he refused to acknowledge whatever it was that sent a spurt of delight thorough him at spending more time with Chloe. He'd pushed it down however, but it had an annoying tendency to crop up at inopportune times.

Like tonight.

He'd been extremely bored sitting at the mansion. For once, there was no outstanding work and he'd quit early. Helen was at a conference so she was gone for the week and he was alone. Usually, this would be cause for rejoicing, having things to himself for a while, but instead, he found himself aching for someone to spend the evening with. It hadn't been long until he'd realized the one person he really wanted to spend time with was already in Smallville, and hopefully, not busy. He'd been ridiculously relieved to see her answer the door, charmed by the fluffy robe she had on, her hair slightly tousled and flying around her face. And now, here he was, sitting with her on the couch, watching a movie like a normal human might do on a Friday night. He smiled as he suddenly realized he did indeed have a lot of catching up to do. And here was the perfect person to do it with.

“Chloe, I have a proposition for you,” he said, seeing her turn to eye him curiously.

Chloe had to force her heart to slow again, knowing he couldn’t mean the kind of proposition she was hoping for.

“A proposition? Sounds intriguing Lex, but I don't think Helen would approve of you propositioning me.”

Lex immediately squashed the sensual images that came to mind at her words. Feeling flustered, he quickly continued with his thought. “Talking about all this has made me realize how much I’ve missed growing up as the Luthor heir. I don’t want to miss things anymore. So, if you’re interested, I’m wondering if you’ll help me rediscover all I’ve missed about the real world, while trying to exist in the Luthor one,” he said, seeing her staring at him strangely.

“What exactly are you asking me Lex?” She was truly puzzled by what he wanted.

Lex smiled as he reached for a handful of popcorn. “I’m saying, I’ve spent way too much time devoting my life to my business enterprises and work. I know I’m going to have to live, eat, sleep and breathe it when I marry Helen, but until then, I figure I’d better store up all I can of the real world, before I have to leave it,” he trailed off, a note of sadness in his voice.

Chloe silently watched him, seeing the struggle going on in his head. She wondered how he could be so sensitive, yet so blockheaded at times. It drove her nuts! “Lex, why do you have to leave what you call the ‘real’ world when you marry Helen?” She was amazed she could say the words ‘marry’ and ‘Helen’ in his presence without choking.

Lex sighed as he munched through the handful of popcorn.

“It’s just that Helen isn’t one to sit down and watch a movie, much less go to one. She always wants to go out and do something, like a party, or opera, or play. And while I enjoy those things, every now and then I feel like going out and getting a beer, watching the game, or seeing a movie. You know, normal things that couples everywhere do.”

Chloe sighed again, trying to picture the Luthor heir sitting in a bar, drinking a beer and acting normal. While it wasn't exactly an easy image to picture, she found that with a little adjusting, she could see it clearly. Which should have surprised her, but didn't. “Lex, you don’t have to stop doing those things. If Helen won’t go, then go by yourself. Just because your fiancée won’t go, don’t make yourself give it up,” she said frankly, seeing him smile.

“Easier said than done Chloe,” he muttered as he settled back against the sofa cushions.

Chloe, despite her desire to push, knew when to back off. “Okay, enough of the "when you’re married" stuff. Tell me what you meant when you said I could help you experience the real world.” She smiled as she saw his face brighten.

“Well, since the wedding is still months away, and since we'll probably have to spend time together anyhow to plan the media coverage of this wedding, I thought that maybe, during those months, you and I could explore having "fun" in the normal world, you know, the simple things in life." He had to hide his smile at the amused expression on her face.

"Um, Lex, its no surprise you don’t know how to have fun, or that you have no idea what the "simple" things in life are, but what's shocking is that you're actually admitting it, and that you need my help? When did we enter the Twilight Zone?" Chloe wasn't sure she heard right, and the images clouding her head about how she could have "fun" with Lex weren't helping.

"It's not that strange Chloe. And to correct your assumption, I admit I don’t have time for "fun" not that I don't know how to have it. And being a Luthor, "simple" is not the word of any day. "Complicated" is much more appropriate. But back to my proposition, I see this as a deal that works both ways." He smiled again at her confused expression. "You know Helen’s out of town almost every weekend and Clark and Lana are so wrapped up in each other they'd be hopeless. So who better to catch me up on the latest movies and things people do for fun, and I could help you turn these Friday night’s alone in front of the TV to more fun and exciting things.” He had to force himself to not think about how cute she looked when she frowned at him.

“Oh, so you’re saying I’m pathetic for spending a Friday night alone, curled up with a good looking guy on my TV?” she teased, throwing a pillow at him.

Lex smiled, feeling his heart lighten as he realized she was going to agree. He caught the pillow she tossed at him in mid-air. “I’m saying I think you could spend your Friday nights with a real, live, good looking man, instead of one on TV,” he shot back, smiling as she burst into laughter.

Chloe couldn’t believe how much she was enjoying this conversation. “So where would I find this ‘good looking’ real life man?” she asked, pretending confusion. She laughed harder as the pillow came flying back towards her, bouncing off her chest and landing on the floor.

“You’re pushing it Sullivan,” he growled, reaching for another pillow and taking aim.

“Watch it Luthor, you’re on my territory now,” she shot back, reaching for the pillow on the floor and bringing it up just in time to deflect the one he’d thrown at her.

“You’d better defend your territory now then, because I’m taking it over,” he shot back, grabbing another pillow and sliding towards her end of the sofa.

Chloe shrieked as she hit him over the head with her pillow, trying not to laugh as she felt him reach for her legs, holding her in place and tickling the backs of her legs.

“Who’s taking over whose territory now,” he managed through her whacks, laughing as he felt the tremors racing through her body as she tried to hold back her laughter. He couldn’t believe he was having a pillow fight with Chloe Sullivan. It was so un-Luthor like. He could only imagine how horrified his father would be if he could see his son now. The thought brightened his mood considerably. Besides, he couldn’t remember the last time he’d had so much fun.

“Watch it Luthor, I’ve got moves you’ve never even dreamed about,” she tossed back, suddenly twisting her legs out of his reach and slipping off the couch onto the floor. She cracked up at the startled look on his face as he found himself now clutching a pillow instead of her. She backed up as she saw the gleam of retribution in his eyes.

“Oh now that wasn’t fair Miss Sullivan, not fair at all. I think I’m going to have to teach you a lesson.” There was a dangerous look in his eyes as he sat up and reached for a stray pillow.

Chloe scrambled to her feet darting around behind the couch as she saw him stand. There was something in his eyes that set her heart racing. She wasn't afraid of the emotion, but the dangerous look in those eyes was turning her on, and that was something she could not afford at the moment.

“Lex, now stop and think here. You don’t want to hit me with that pillow. Otherwise, who will you have to help with this crazy scheme?” she rambled, backing away from him as he slowly advanced on her, a predatory look in his eyes.

“Oh I don’t know about that. I’m sure I can find another pretty girl to keep me company as I rediscover the simple things in life,” he teased, smiling as her eyes fired at his words. He still knew how to push her buttons.

The thought of any other female showing Lex Luthor the simple pleasures of life just didn’t sit well with her. That was her job and her job alone. Despite the fact he might never love her, he was her friend. And by God, if she could show him how to have fun, she was going to do it. At least it would be spending time together, making plenty of warm memories for the long cold nights ahead when he was out of her life and married to Helen. Mind made up, she inched further away from him, wondering how to tell him she accepted his proposition while keeping in the spirit of their lighthearted game.

“If you put that pillow down, maybe we can talk terms,” she coaxed, slipping back to the far side of the sofa, trying not to laugh at the quick spark of relief that shot through his eyes.

Lex told himself to keep it under control. No use in letting her see how relieved he was that she was going to agree. He couldn’t begin to explain why it was suddenly so important that Chloe be the one to show him what he’d been missing. All he knew was that it was. And she’d agreed. He smiled as he lowered the pillow, holding out a hand. “Okay, truce.” He watched as she warily reached out to grasp his outstretched hand.

Chloe refused to acknowledge the spark that shot up her arm at the contact.

Lex shook himself as he felt a jolt of electricity shoot up his arm as their hands touched.

Both quickly pulled away, their laughter slightly strained.

Chloe knew she had to cover quickly, no use letting him see how affected she’d been by a simple touch. “Okay, you’ve got a deal. So what do you want to do first?” she managed, sinking back down onto the sofa, smiling in relief as he dropped the pillow and sat down on the other end.

Lex smiled, mind already running rampant with possibilities. However, he had to push down the naughty ideas that were screaming to take center stage in his head. Something definitely more innocent was what she expected. He refused to acknowledge the slight spark of the devil that felt disappointed at the thought. “Well, for starters, are there any good movies out there that you want to see?” He smiled, seeing her eyes light up.

“Plenty. Of course, you have to want to see them too. Or then again, I could just make you suffer through some of the great classics you’ve missed so far in your long, boring life,” she mused, laughing as he gave her a mock frown.

“You know, I’m not that out of touch. I do have a few favorite movies, several of which I bet you’ve never seen.” He wondered if he should be worried at the sparkle that suddenly appeared in Chloe's eyes.

“I wouldn't be so sure Lex. Then again, you're always full of surprises. I'm suddenly breathless with antici…pation to see them.”

She couldn't help but laugh at the look he gave her as she paused over the word. Well, obviously that movie was one he'd missed. Not that she'd expect Lex Luthor to be a Rocky Horror Picture Show fan. The image of the handsome man sitting next to her suddenly shimmered until she saw him wearing fishnets, high heels and a leather corset. She almost choked on the popcorn she'd just swallowed.

"Chloe, you okay?"

He frowned as she nodded, even as he reached over to pound her on the back. Something about the look in her eyes made him uncomfortable, but not in a bad way. Sighing, assured she would live, he settled back on his end of the couch, turning his attention to the TV and away from the way the soft light in the room played over the shadows and planes of Chloe's face. It was doing things to his system he wasn’t sure he wanted to acknowledge. But whatever it was, it was getting harder to resist. He wondered for a moment if entering into this agreement was something he would end up regretting. One look at her as she laughed at something on the screen had him determined to take the risk. He'd do just about anything to keep that happy, carefree look on Chloe Sullivan's face. He only hoped he wouldn't be the one to erase it for good.

Chloe smiled, telling her heart to stop pounding as she tried to get into the movie again. She was going to help Lex put some fun back into his life. A daunting task when she allowed herself to fully comprehend it, but a fun one nonetheless. Still, that fun could backfire big time on her, getting her heart in deeper. But she was willing to take the risk, knowing she'd at least get to spend time with him. And right now, she’d take anything she could get.

“So, what is this movie about… and why is an entire restaurant singing a Burt Bacharach song with lobster oven mitts waving in the background?” she suddenly heard Lex ask. She laughed and began to explain.

~*~*~*~*~*~

[sydsvaughn]

Disclaimers: Don't own the SV characters, or Ewan McGregor. Damn, what I could do with MR and EM. Oh the mind boggles!


Ch. 2- Truth, Beauty, Freedom, Love


~*~*~*~*~

Lex smiled as he slipped on his jacket and headed out the front door. He was glad he hadn’t run into any of his staff, not really wanting to explain where he was going or why he was taking off at a normal hour for the second Friday night in a row. He'd gotten enough strange looks from his butler over the past week when he'd suddenly break into a stupid grin for no reason at all.

He was also thankful that Helen had to remain in Metropolis for another week on business. He'd realized early on it would not be the best idea to tell her that he was getting an education in the "simple things" in life. She’d probably take offense and think he was mocking her likes and dislikes. Besides, he didn’t want to share "fun night" with Chloe with anyone else. It was his time to be himself. Not Lex Luthor, multi-billionaire and heir to an empire in its own right. Just Lex. A normal person, having normal fun with a friend. His smile widened as he jumped into his car and headed for the Sullivan house, realizing he’d been looking forward to this moment all week. Ever since Chloe had agreed to help him he seemed to be living in anticipation.

He’d spent the week immersed in plant business, putting in long, hard hours and doing his best to avert what seemed to be daily near disasters. But the one thing that had gotten him through it was the knowledge that on Friday night, he was going to have fun. He was also glad Clark and Lana were so occupied with each other they wouldn't interfere. They'd taken to inviting him to come out with them on Friday's, he knew because they felt sorry for him cooped up the mansion with Helen away so much. Sometimes, he'd actually go and enjoy himself, but he'd always get annoyed at the way Clark and Lana were oblivious to everyone but each other. But this Friday he didn't have to worry about finding an excuse. He had plans with Chloe.

He smiled as he pictured Chloe throwing pillows at him, laughing with delight as he actually fought back. She had such a pretty smile too. It seemed to light her up from within, and each time she gave it to him, he found himself warming from the inside out as well. He often found himself wondering how Clark could not have seen the beautiful woman staring him right in the face. Not that he necessarily wanted Clark to see the Chloe he'd gotten to know over the past year. Lex liked the feeling that what he shared with the blonde reporter was something unique only to them. He knew for a fact she trusted him more than Clark, Pete or any of her other high school friends. Part of him should have realized it was not exactly normal to have an 18 year old as his confidant and friend, but as with most things, he decided he didn't care, especially since he liked the person he was when he was with her.

He frowned a moment, realizing that once again he was slipping into dangerous territory with these thoughts of Chloe. He’d been doing it more and more frequently, and it was getting to him. But when the moments hit, he’d reassure himself that she was simply his friend and since they spent so much time together, it was only natural he think about her like that now and then.

Not that he was going to do anything about it. After all, he was an engaged man. He shoved the feelings down, focusing instead on tonight’s entertainment. Chloe had decided it was only fair they start their "mission" out by watching one of her all time favorite movies. She hadn’t told him what it was, but she was sure he’d never seen it, saying it probably wasn’t something a Luthor would enjoy. He had to admit, his curiosity was peaked and he couldn’t wait to find out what she had in store. He had a feeling she was going to surprise him.

He pulled into the Sullivan driveway with a smile on his face. The smile grew as he locked the sleek sports car and headed eagerly for the front door. Realizing he must look like a fool, he slowed his pace, forcing himself to wipe the stupid grin off his face. He was amazed he was so excited about spending time with Chloe. He couldn’t seem to stop smiling. He knocked on the door, the stupid smile coming back as Chloe appeared on the other side. He swallowed hard as he took in her outfit. It might have been casual to any other observer, but for some reason, his gut tightened and his breath stalled as his eyes made a quick sweep of her body.

“Right on time Lex, not that I'm surprised.” Chloe laughed as she opened the door and motioned him in. She smiled as she noticed his eyes take a quick sweep of her body, feeling a feminine delight slide through her at the action. She’d dressed comfortably for their movie night, but her comfort clothing was a pair of stretch leggings and an oversize sweater the dipped off one shoulder. She knew she looked comfortable yet sexy, something she was happy to realize Lex had noticed too, even if he’d never admit it.

Lex shook himself out of his stupor, forcing his brain to get back on track. He followed Chloe into the living room, relaxing as he noticed the bowl of popcorn on the table and the TV on and ready to go. A thought suddenly occurred to him then.

"So, Lana's working tonight?"

Chloe laughed as she settled onto one end of the sofa, happy to see him looking comfortable and relaxed as he settled on the other. She was surprised to see he had on comfortable khaki pants and a deep purple shirt. Both served to look spectacular on him, not that she was surprised. Even casual, Lex Luthor could take a woman's breath away. "Yep. Lana had to finish updating the books and then she and Clark are taking in a movie. And with dad off at yet another convention, I guess it's just you and me. If I didn't know you better Lex Luthor, I'd say you planned this."

He smiled at the teasing tone of her voice, refusing to feel the slight tinge of guilt at the knowledge that he had sent Gabe to the latest conference, even though it had been arranged well before their little "deal." As for Lana, well, he couldn't help it if he suddenly needed to know the exact financial standing of their investment. He was sure Clark wouldn't mind helping her figure it out either. “So, are you finally going to tell me what we’re watching?” He was amused to see she had noted his avoidance, but was not going to call him on it.

“You’re just dying to know, aren’t you?” she teased as he reached for a handful of popcorn.

“I have to admit, as well as we know each other, I don’t know some of the basic things about you, including what your favorite movie of all time is, especially a movie you don’t think I would enjoy."

Chloe sighed at his words. There was so much they didn’t know about each other, and more that they probably never would. But she wasn’t going to think about that now. Instead, she was going to indoctrinate Lex to on of her favorite films. She wondered if he would laugh or run screaming. “Okay, now before I put it on, you have to promise me you won’t laugh,” she stated, seeing his eyes light up.

“Okay, that sounds ominous, but I promise, I won’t laugh, at least not too hard,” he replied, holding up his hands so she could see he didn’t have his fingers crossed.

Chloe laughed and threw a pillow at him as she hit "play" on the DVD. “I’m going to hold you to that Luthor,” she tossed back as she reached up and flipped off the light, sending the room into darkness, the only light now coming from the TV screen in front of them.

Lex smiled as he watched the rapt way she turned towards the screen as the opening credits began to roll. The familiar, yet out of place music that suddenly filled his ears had him looking at her in confusion. “This doesn't look like the "Sound of Music”, unless the Swiss Alps are now behind a red curtain."

Chloe had to bite back a laugh, amused that Lex obviously had seen the older musical. The things she was learning about this enigmatic man. “Never would have pegged you for a Julie Andrews fan. Must have been the nun-habit, right? For some reason, men seem to like that outfit on a woman. Don't ask me why, Clark or Pete certainly couldn't tell me."

Lex choked back a laugh at her words. "I think it has something to do with the idea of uncovering everything that outfit covers up." He made the words sensual, delighting in the wry look she sent his way. When she didn't respond, he simply shrugged his shoulders. "Okay, while that's always an appealing image, I'll have you know the "Sound of Music" was one of my mother's favorite movies. We'd always watch it together every Easter. It was a bonding ritual since my father never could be bothered to join us for Easter dinner."

Chloe sobered at the slight bitterness she heard in his voice. Obviously, his father's callousness had hurt Lex more than he would admit. Deciding to change the subject, she simply smiled. "Well trust me, this is about as far from the "Sound of Music" as you can get. But give it a try okay, it's my favorite. Although I guess it's okay if you laugh, I won't be too offended."

“I’m not going to laugh. At least, not at you. The movie however is fair game. But I would like to satisfy my curiosity as to why there's a very young looking Ewan McGregor walking through the surreal world of the shadier side of early 20th century Paris."

Chloe raised an eyebrow at him, surprised he knew the location, and the identity of her favorite actor. "Wow, he knows his history and his Hollywood. It's called "Moulin Rouge" and in my personal opinion, has revived the movie musical single-handedly. Not to mention cementing the career of Ewan McGregor."

Lex raised his eyebrow at her this time. "Do I detect a bit of an infatuation with Ewan McGregor? Chloe Sullivan, hard hitting, hard-nosed reporter has a thing for the errant Scotsman? I never would have suspected."

Chloe raised her eyebrow at his words. "Should I wonder that you know Ewan McGregor and the fact that he's Scottish? Lex, is there something you need to tell me?" She struggled to hide her laughter at his affronted expression.

"No Chloe. To answer your question, I've done some business with his production company in London. Nice people they have working there, although I never really caught on to what people thought was so special about Jude Law." He hid his smile as her job dropped.

Chloe wondered if he was teasing her. He had to be. But the look in his eyes told her differently. With a shriek, she threw herself across the sofa, grasping onto the lapels of his shirt, noting he didn't pull away. "You KNOW Ewan McGregor? The man I have more explicit dreams about than yo- anyone else? How could you not tell me Luthor!" She stopped quickly at his raised eyebrow and forced down a blush at her slip. She was still struggling to comprehend that Lex knew one of what Lana liked to call her obsessions.

Lex didn't bother to hide his grin. He was still adjusting to the fact that Chloe was nearly plastered against his body. His nostrils were filled with the unique scent that she wore and he found himself hard pressed not to lean down and see if she tasted as good as she looked. The thought startled him back to the present, amid the realization that she was not thinking of him anyhow. He frownd to himself as he realized he didn't like the thought of her lusting over anyone, even a television idol. Not that he had any right to tell her who to obsess over. He was an engaged man after all. Maybe it would do him good to remember. If only he could muster up the energy to remove her hands from where they lay against his chest.

"I've never personally met the man Chloe, but I have talked to him on the phone. And the next time I do, I promise to put in a good word for you. Although I get the impression he's pretty happy with his wife." He laughed at her star struck expression. But he suddenly felt the desire to bring her back to awareness of whom she was with at this moment. And despite his engaged state, he still had a lot more to offer her than Ewan McGregor. "So, now that we've gotten that out of the way, tell me what Chloe Sullivan finds so appealing about this movie?"

Chloe sighed, suddenly realizing she still had ahold of his shirt. She was rather enjoying being so close to him, feeling the warmth of his skin even through his shirt. Still, it wouldn't do to remain like this, after all, he was an engaged man. And he was still waiting for an answer to his question. With a shrug, she reluctantly pulled back and gave him a small, wistful smile. “I just love the whole story line. She tries for her fairy tale ending when she stands up to the evil, the hatred and the prejudice, only to lose it. There's something so heartbreakingly romantic and tragic about it. Not to mention the fact that Christian loves her so much. I've always wondered what it must feel like to be loved that much by a man."

Chloe whispered the last words under her breath, but Lex heard them. He shot a glance over at her, noting the wistful look on her face. His body was still rebelling at the loss of her hands against his chest and his heart now felt a painful tug as he realized she truly meant the words. This beautiful, intelligent, attractive woman truly thought no man could ever love her. Not that she'd had the greatest example in Clark. And he wasn't free to show her how it felt to be loved either. Even though he suddenly realized he wanted to. The thought startled him enough to realize he was getting into deeper waters than he could afford. He breathed a sigh of relief as his eye was suddenly caught by a snoring, heavyset man that had just fallen through a ceiling on the screen in front of him. Turning his attention back to the movie, he found himself immediately sucked into a whole new world.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Okay, you're telling me after all this, she's going to cave into the pressure of her, for lack of a better word, pimp? She has true love staring her right in the face, and she's giving it up because she's afraid of what people will say or do to her lover? Hell, just hire someone to dig up some dirt on the Duke and the problem is solved. Blackmail works wonders."

Chloe had to hide her amusement at Lex's rationale, although she chose not to think about how he knew so much about blackmail. There were aspects of Lex Luthor's life she really, really didn't want to know about, at least not at the moment. Pushing the thought aside, she allowed herself to smile at his reaction. Despite her initial worries he might think this was a stupid movie, she’d soon learned that Lex was just as passionate about love and soulmates as she was. She just wasn't sure he was aware of it, much less willing to admit it. Still, it was a side of him he obviously didn’t let people see and she had to admit, she was thoroughly enjoying it.

“Well Lex, selling herself is all she’s ever known, it’s what she’s done her entire life. And Zidler, well, much as he might love her, he's focused on money. The Duke, well, he's a pretty hard, cold man. Although I bet he's got an interesting past. Still, living like this, it would be hard for anyone to believe in true love. Sadly, it all boils down to a ruthless business deal in a hard, cold world."

Lex suddenly felt a little melancholy. “Don’t I know it, people probably accuse me of being that hard and cold.” He suddenly realized he wasn't that different from the Duke.

Chloe sighed, not meaning to have him get melancholy on her. Time again to lighten the mood. She smiled as she threw a pillow at him. “Hey, you might have more money than everyone in this movie, but you’re nothing like Zidler or the Duke for that matter. In fact, I think you'd look pretty good in a suit, singing your heart out to the woman you love."

Lex couldn't help but laugh. Chloe always knew how to make him feel better. "Like any woman would believe that of me. But you know, whenever it rains, I've always had a desire to do a Gene Kelly from "Singing In The Rain." Although if you ever tell anyone about that, I'll deny it to my dying day."

Chloe laughed, refusing to note how her heart had skipped a beat at the fact he hadn't mentioned Helen in connection with her "woman you love" line. Still, she now was picturing Lex dancing around a light pole with an umbrella, in the rain. The thought made her giggle and earned a frown from Lex.

"It's not that funny Chloe. I happen to know a lot of women who would love to have Gene Kelly sing and dance for them. Although I will admit, no one would ever think it of ruthless, uncaring Lex Luthor."

She sighed, realizing he was getting morose and serious again. It was time for a little reassurance. "Lex, you might be a bit stuffy at times, and I know you can be just as ruthless, if not worse than the Duke when it comes to business, but trust me, you’re definitely nothing like him. I know you Lex, trust me on that one. Although I will give you the part about not being able to see you dancing around in the rain."

Lex smiled at her words, feeling touched by her staunch defense of his character as well. No one, not even Clark, had ever shown such faith in him. And while he knew he was guilty of some shady, not very nice business deals, truthfully, he never deliberately set out to hurt people. But knowing that Chloe understood, that she saw through him, made him feel something he wasn’t ready to acknowledge. But he did know he was extremely glad Chloe didn’t see him the way nearly everyone else in his life did. Of course, she obviously didn't see him as a fan of Gene Kelly's dancing either. Someday, he might have to surprise her.

“Well, I appreciate your vote of confidence in my character, although I happen to disagree with the "stuffy" part of your analysis of me,’” he said wryly as she burst into laughter before motioning for him to be quiet and continue watching.

A half an hour later Chloe felt the first tear escape her tight control as Satine lay dying in Christian's arms. She knew very well how things ended, but for some reason, every time she watched, she hoped it would end differently. The pain and tragedy of losing such a deep love always got to her. A feeling made more potent by the fact that her very own, slightly warped and definitely less innocent version of Christian sat quietly next to her. But his Satine was a beautiful, intelligent doctor who was most certainly in no danger of dying anytime soon. It really was a depressing thought and she couldn't help but sniffle as she reached to wipe away the tears.

“Hey, here,” Lex whispered as he handed her a napkin, watching as she turned tear filled eyes to his and murmured a thanks.

"Sorry, it just really hits home."

He nodded, realizing his own emotions were affected as well. There was just something so unfair about the boy going through all that only to be thwarted by death. It was actually probably a fitting ending, the most realistic, but it did put a damper on the whole film. Not to mention he could tell that the woman sniffling next to him felt the emotion on a deeper level that was probably normal for a movie. Which meant something about the storyline must have hit a nerve with her. He suddenly found himself determined to figure out what made her equate her romantic fate with Christian's. He only hoped this whole thing still wasn't over some hidden feelings for Clark. He refused to analyze why that thought upset him so much. He couldn't help but feel a tug at his heart as Chloe wiped her eyes and blew her nose in a very unladylike manner. On her however, it was still utterly charming. But, it was obviously time to lighten the mood.

“I never would have pictured Chloe Sullivan crying over a doomed love story. The things I'm learning about you each day.” He felt his heart lighten as she suddenly broke into a smile.

“I can’t help it. It’s so romantic yet tragic. I firmly believe that all good things don't come without a little pain along the way. Sometimes, a lot of pain,” she said softly, unaware she'd added the final phrase.

"Well, I can't argue with that. Although I have to admit, and if you tell anyone this I'll deny it to my dying day, but I haven't enjoyed a movie, much less a musical like that in years."

Chloe felt her heart fly at his words and the earnest expression in his eyes. He really had liked it! Would wonders never cease? "So am I to infer from your words that Lex Luthor likes musicals? They seem a little bit too mundane for your taste," she teased, laughing at his affronted frown.

"I'll have you know I have quite an appreciation for the classic musicals, our previous conversation tonight obvious proof. Besides, you can't tell me there's a better musical moment than Gene Kelly dancing in the rain. Although I suspect you'd say it was Ewan McGregor dancing around on top of an elephant."

This time she couldn't help but laugh, now picturing Lex as Christian. It was an amusing thought, although she had to admit, he would look wonderful doing it. There was something appealing about the thought of him singing and dancing for her. Probably because it was something so un-Luthorish, she knew it would never happen. "Well, I'll admit, while it's not exactly an easy thing to picture you dancing in the rain or on an elephant, I can do it. But more importantly, do you sing?"

Lex frowned, suddenly realizing he could have gotten himself into a bit of a situation. "No actually, even though my mother was very musically inclined. I just couldn't bring myself to burst into song like she could." He frowned as Chloe scoffed.

"Oh come on Lex. You can't tell me you haven't launched into a little something in the shower? Not even a power ballad from the 80's?" She giggled at the shocked look Lex gave her.

"A power ballad from the 80's? I think not. I wouldn't bring myself to sink that low. Although a little Blue Oyster Cult wouldn't be too bad." He wasn't aware he uttered the last phrase but Chloe's peal of laughter had him turning a light shade of red. He hadn't meant to let that slip.

"Blue Oyster Cult? Oh Lex, please don't tell me you're one of those people who sing "Burning For You" in the shower? Oh, I can hear it now!"

He was feeling a little put off by her laughter and by the obvious thought that she didn't think he could sing. For a moment, he forgot that that was the entire point of the track he'd steered this conversation onto. "Actually, "Don’t Fear The Reaper" was always my favorite. You know a good DJ is one who doesn't fall for the fake ending."

Chloe was almost convulsing she was laughing so hard. She suddenly had a mental picture of Lex belting out the chorus in the shower. When her thoughts quickly began to picture him naked, singing in the shower, she brought herself back to the present with a jerk. “Oh Lord Lex, I can only imagine. Oh the horror!"

Lex's amused gaze should have clued her in that he had something up his sleeve, but she was laughing too hard to notice. "I never said I sang in the shower Chloe, you only inferred that from the fact that I admitted to you that I like Blue Oyster Cult. But I'm flattered you're thinking of me in the shower." He was rather proud of his answer, not to mention the fact that he now knew she was picturing him, naked, in said shower.

Chloe felt the blush rising in her cheeks and knew she needed to turn the tables before Lex realized it wasn't the first time she'd pictured him naked, in the shower and just about everywhere else. "Oh come on Lex! Not even in private? I sing plenty of strange songs in the bathtub or shower. Besides, the point is that no one is supposed to hear you sing them, so who cares what they are, or how well you carry a tune,” she added matter of factly.

“Oh really,” he mused, looking at her with a strange light in his eyes.

She shivered at the look, not sure if she wanted to know what was going through his mind. “Lex, why are you looking at me like that?” She shivered, in a good way, as he smiled at her.

“I’m just picturing you singing in the shower or elsewhere for that matter. Somehow, it doesn’t have quite the same ring as Debbie Reynolds or Nicole Kidman,” he mused, laughing at the affronted look on her face. He was glad to realize she hadn't seemed to pick up on his shower reference. He really didn't need the images that were now appearing in his mind.

“So what are you saying? You don’t think I can sing?” she asked, watching as he cracked up next to her. She chose for the moment not to read anything into the fact that he'd just admitted he was picturing her in a shower.

“No. I don't think there's anything you're not capable of doing. I just don't picture you as a singer. It doesn't go with the hard hitting journalistic image you try so hard to project." He couldn't help but laugh as he read the annoyance growing in her eyes. She was so cute when she was annoyed with him. He liked seeing how far he could push her.

Choe seethed as she watched Lex laugh, realizing he truly knew nothing about her musical preferences or skills. But then again why should he? Not even Clark or Pete knew she liked to sing to herself quite often when the house was empty. She smiled as she suddenly realized that Lex was about to get a surprise. Never let it be said Chloe Sullivan didn’t rise to a challenge. And he’d obviously issued one, whether he knew it or not.

“You don’t think that I can sing do you?" She smiled as he nodded while still laughing. Her smile turned evil as she rose and went to the stereo, carefully looking for the right CD from the collection sitting next to it.

Lex observed her closely wondering what she was up to. He settled back into the cushions, content to watch her move, realizing he hadn’t felt this relaxed in a long time. The smile disappeared from his face as he heard the familiar opening strains begin.

Chloe took a deep breath and whirled around, raising her voice to be heard over the one coming from the speaker.

***********
The French are glad to die for love
They delight in fighting duels
But I prefer a man, who gives expensive, gifts
A kiss on the hand may be quite continental
But diamonds are a girl's best friend.

***********

Lex's mouth dropped as he watched Chloe burst into "Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend" with gusto, swiveling her hips in an erotic motion as she moved towards him with a smile on her face. Her voice was incredible! He watched as she threw herself into the song she obviously knew well. She also looked damn cute doing her own little sexy dance for him. He couldn’t stop the smile that appeared on his face as she threw her all into the final chorus, advancing on him with a predatory smile. He felt his breath catch as she ended up stretched out in front of him, in a rather provocative pose. He told his racing heart to slow as she finished, forcing himself to remember to applaud.

Chloe smiled, out of breath from her impromptu performance. She’d seen the spark of awareness in his eyes as she’d done her little routine and it had egged her on. He might not realize what he felt for her, but there was definitely something there. Maybe he just needed a little push to see it. Or maybe she was imagining things, again. Either way, she wasn’t going to put to much stock in one look. She’d had fun performing for him however. She’d never done it for anyone else. She’d never felt comfortable enough.

“I admit, you've managed to stun me Chloe. You have a beautiful voice and some very good moves there." He meant every word, although he found it hard to get most of them out since he'd barely been able to breathe throughout her impromptu performance. He didn’t want to analyze why being so close to her suddenly made him so breathless.

“I told you, there’s a lot you don’t know about me, and vice versa, but I’m looking forward to showing you, and finding out,” she said with a smile.

Lex couldn't help the grin that spread across his face. He too was looking forward to finding out all the hidden facets to this intriguing woman. “So, I think this first "fun night" was a huge success, and I learned two new things about you.” Lex hid his smile as Chloe eyed him curiously.

“What, that I have a weakness for tortured fairy tales and can sing like a courtesan?” She stopped at his laughter.

“Among other things, but what I was thinking of was that you’re a hopeless romantic, who has the most beautiful voice I’ve ever heard. You do a pretty mean courtesan dance as well.” He smiled at her blush.

“You flatter me Lex. Although I'm sure you say that to all the girls.” She knew her words were probably true, but she still couldn't help but bask in his praise.

Lex watched her cheeks redden at his compliments, feeling glad he could at least tell her the truth on that one. “You'd be surprised, Although, I’m hoping you’ll say something similar about me next Friday when I make you watch one of my favorite movies.” He watched as her face lit up with a smile.

“Aren't you even going to give me a hint?”

Lex simply smiled at the curiosity in her voice. “That’s for me to know and you to wonder about all week.” He ducked as she threw another pillow at him.

“You’re no fun,” she pouted as he threw the pillow back.

“Hey, turn about is fair play,” he shot back, loving the frustrated look on her face.

Chloe smiled to herself, knowing she was amusing him with her impatience. Truth was, she couldn’t wait until next week to see what he had in store for her. There was something appealing about learning the hidden sides to Lex Luthor. Sides she knew he would only feel comfortable showing to her. It gave her a special thrill knowing there were at least some things she’d share with him that Helen never would.

Lex watched the varying emotions filter across her face, realizing he wanted to know everything she was thinking. There was something enticing about knowing things about this girl that no one else did. It was a bond they’d share that would be like no other. Something inside him rejoiced at the thought. Another part warned him to be cautious where those feelings could lead. But those thoughts were for another night. Right now, he simply wanted to enjoy being with Chloe. He wondered if, since the movie was done, she wanted him to leave. He hoped not, he was actually enjoying simply sitting and talking with her, like a normal human being.

Chloe noted how comfortable he looked stretched out on her couch, the strain and stress from the week totally gone from his body. She liked seeing him relax, and she was determined to make this Friday night as stress free as possible. “So, there's another important question I need answered about you,” she began, seeing him perk up at her words.

“What?” he asked, settling back and preparing for her worst.

Chloe smiled. “Are you a Leno or Letterman person?” She couldn't help but feel a delicious tingle go down her spine as Lex burst into a hearty laughter like she'd never heard from him before.

Lex couldn’t stop laughing at the serious expression on her face. Of all the questions he’d expected, that had been the last. “Personally, I prefer Leno. Although I like Letterman’s Top 10,” he added, seeing her eyes light up.

“My kind of guy. I usually watch Leno, then turn to Letterman for the Top 10.” She smiled with satisfaction, flipping through the channels until she landed on the right one.

“See, yet another thing we have in common." Lex watched as Chloe smiled into his eyes.

“One of many I think we’ll find out on our little adventure,” she murmured in reply. They smiled at each other before settling back to watch TV in a comfortable silence.

~*~*~*~*~

More to come, you like so far?

[Not An Addict]

Ok, so I know that -technically- I've already reviewed this on TBT, but I just wanted to say MORE NOW!! Pretty please? *batts eyes*

[sabby]

Same goes for me and ff.net *g*

More NOW! I want more of this and could you get them to cuddle?

hugs,
Sabby

[Tandy]

I love it :biggrin:

I love how you write Lex in this! More soon please!
Tandy

[AlwaysPretending]

I'm really enjoying this so far (hopefully, Lex will give Helen the flick soon - she is soooo not good for him!)

So please post more soon.

Kerry

(Oh, I loved the little Miss P/Jarod shipping in part 1)

[Sway]

like so far?? i love so far!! i can't wait til Lex realises he's engaged to the wrong girl!!

:blinkkiss: Sway

[Юü§îLLå]

This is good! Lex in a pillow fight...It's actually not that hard to believe...I like how you've brought out the human-ness in Lex.

[dce]

Definitely like :blinkkiss:. I just can't wait until Lex decides to see reason and dumps Helen.

[sydsvaughn]

Ch. 3-Here's Looking At You Kid

Disclaimers and such in Part 1

Notes: As per request, "cuddling" appears in this one, a least just enough to hopefully make things interesting! Enjoy!

~*~*~*~*~*~

Chloe smiled as she made her way towards the mansion, thankful Lex had alerted the guards to her presence so she could drive right up to the front door. She’d been looking forward to Friday night for the past week. She was having so much fun showing Lex the "simple things" in life.

Last week had been her choice, and she’d made him watch “Moulin Rouge.” Surprisingly, he’d enjoyed it. Along with her impersonation of Nicole Kidman for his amusement. She knew she’d surprised him and looked forward to doing it again. Although she wondered if he could take "Velvet Goldmine." Ziggy Stardust and gay sex just didn't strike her as something Lex would enjoy. Then again, neither had Blue Oyster Cult.

Tonight though, she was looking forward to how he would surprise her. All week she’d been fantasizing what movie Lex considered his favorite. She loved learning new things about him; after all, you could tell a lot about a man from his movie preferences. She only hoped he didn't have a thing for porno flicks. She shuddered at the image, but wouldn't put anything past the reclusive billionaire. Still, she’d found herself speculating endlessly over what movies Lex might enjoy, even going so far as to carefully feel out Clark, to see if he had any idea what his friend liked to watch. Not to her surprise, Clark had no clue.

She was smiling as she slipped through the side door she was accustomed to using. She'd made enough visits here in the past few years that no one looked on her arrival as suspicious. Besides, on a good day, that meant she could sneak up on Lex.

Making her way towards the living room, she found herself thankful that Lex was the only one home. Lionel had moved back to Metropolis last year, but there was always the chance of a surprise visit. Definitely not what she wanted on their "fun night." The same went for Helen. Lex's fiancée had pulled yet another overnight shift at the hospital. Chloe had to wonder how a woman who professed to love Lex so much could spend so little time with him. Not that she was complaining. Helen's oh-so-convenient absence meant once again it would be just her and Lex, alone in his castle. She forced down the thrill that thought sent through her body as she heard sounds coming from the huge TV room to her right.

She walked into the room, noting the big screen TV was on and waiting, along with a bowl of popcorn and two mugs on the table. She smiled curiously as she moved forward, realizing as she got closer, that they held hot chocolate. She felt her eyes tear up as she realized he’d remembered when she’d told him last week that she liked the rather strange combination of hot chocolate with popcorn. Coffee just didn't seem to go with it, although most people would be shocked to hear her say that.

“Well, if I’d have known it would make you cry, I wouldn’t have gone to the trouble of making it.”

Lex stopped a moment as he entered the room, simply absorbing the picture she made. His teasing words had brought a slight blush to her cheeks as she turned to aim her mega-watt smile at him, leaving him breathless. It was getting to be a habit of his anymore, going breathless at the first sight of Chloe after a long week. He wondered why he even questioned it. Tonight she was wearing jeans and a halter top that showed off her curves to perfection. Again, a perfectly casual and comfortable outfit, but stunning enough to steal his breath as he looked at her.

Chlole smiled to herself, realizing she was getting used to these once-overs each time he saw her. She had to admit it made her feel feminine in a way nothing else ever had. She wasn’t going to deny she dressed for that reaction, but she knew too, that she wanted to be comfortable. What a benefit that what she was comfortable in was also appealing to Lex. Not to mention the fact that staring at him was enough to steal any reply she might have made. He too had dressed for comfort, this time in jeans and a purple sweater that strangely brought out the blue in his eyes. She only hoped she wasn’t drooling. Maybe she’d better say something before she made a total fool of herself.

“I just can’t believe you remembered. And even more amazing, are you actually wearing jeans? Casual Lex who makes me hot chocolate because he remembers I said I liked it with popcorn? I think I just went into cardiac arrest!”

Lex smiled, forcing down his wayward thoughts about giving her mouth-to-mouth resuscitation as he pushed a button on his state of the art DVD player. “Well, you are the one who says always dress for comfort, I figured I'd take your advice. I also figured that if you didn’t like my movie choice, you’d at least appreciate the fact I remembered you liked hot chocolate.” His heart felt lighter as Chloe burst into laughter and settled onto the center of the sofa. Without realizing it, Lex sat down next to her so their shoulders were almost brushing. Neither was ready to acknowledge how right it felt.

“Don’t worry, if I don’t like your taste in movies, I’ll tell you, but I don’t think that’s gonna happen,” she said as she took a sip of the steaming brew. “This isn’t bad, your chef makes great hot chocolate." She laughed harder as Lex pretended to look offended.

“You don’t think I’m capable of making gourmet hot chocolate?”

Chloe laughed at his wounded tone and took another sip as he settled onto the sofa next to her.

“No, I believe you’re perfectly capable of dumping two packets of hot chocolate into two mugs, pouring water over them and putting them in the microwave for two minutes,” she said as he sighed in defeat.

“I try to impress the lady and all she does is make fun of me,” he muttered with a smile to show he didn’t mean the words.

Chloe reached over and patted him gently on the arm. “Awww, I’m flattered you took the time to do that, and it’s really very good,” she managed through her laughter, glad when he joined in.

“Okay, now that that’s out of the way, can we start the movie?” He smiled to himself as her eyes lit up in anticipation.

“Of course. I’ve been dying of curiosity all week.”

Satisfaction was evident in his words even as he pressed the "play" button on the DVD. “Same rules as last week. You have to promise not to laugh,” he told her seriously as she nodded and held out her hands.

“I promise, at least not to laugh at you.”

She gasped at his look of mock outrage, smiling like crazy when he threw a pillow her way. She sighed as he flipped off the lights and the opening credits began to roll. Her eyes widened as she recognized the music.

“Casablanca?”

Lex shrugged, wondering what she was thinking as she looked over at him. “What can I say? Mom made me watch it years ago, and something about it has always appealed to me. It’s stuck in my mind. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched it,” he mused, missing the soft smile that appeared on her face.

Chloe felt another part of her heart lost as she realized there was a sentimental side to Lex Luthor. Not many men she knew would admit to liking Casablanca and those who knew the ruthless businessman Lex made himself out to be would have a field day if they ever found out. Which was exactly why she knew she'd never tell. Not to mention "Casablanca" was one of her all time favorites as well.

“Probably not as many as I have," Chloe said with a laugh. "It's one of dad's favorite movies as well and he’s instilled a love of it into me. I can't get Lana to enjoy it however.” She only shrugged at the look he gave her.

“That I can believe. It doesn't strike me as a Lana type movie, or a Clark one for that matter. But you really like it?"

Chloe winked and pretended to tip an invisible hat towards him. “Here’s looking at you kid,” she rumbled in her best Bogey imitation.

Lex burst into laughter, delighted to realize they had something else in common. “I’m glad, I was worried about what you’d think of Lex Luthor liking “Casablanca” it doesn’t quite fit with the image,” he added sheepishly.

Chloe smiled and reached over to pat his arm. “I think it’s perfectly fitting that you like this film. It’s a perfect example of film making at its best and it’s a wonderful tale of intrigue and romance, something for everyone."

“I don’t know, I guess I always wanted to be Bogey,” he mused with another sheepish smile. “Stupid for a Luthor, right?”

Chloe only sighed. “There’s nothing wrong with enjoying this film Lex, it’s a classic; and a wonderful classic at that. Besides, you can’t go wrong with Bogey. Although I still think I might prefer you as Gene Kelly,” she stated firmly as he smiled.

"Remind me to impress you next time it rains.” He smiled as they settled back to watch the events unfold on screen, their shoulders brushing lightly.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

By the time Rick walked off into the cloudy mist, Chloe was crying quietly against his chest. Somewhere during the movie, his arm had slipped around her shoulders in a friendly gesture and she'd curled up against his side. Neither had acknowledged the spark, but neither wanted to give up the warmth of the other either.

Lex looked down at her, realizing she was crying and passed her the Kleenex he’d brought down with him, anticipating this exact reaction. He watched as she smiled and accepted his offering, wiping away her tears as the credits rolled.

Chloe smiled through her tears as she thanked him. “I’m guessing you didn’t just happen to have that box of Kleenex with you for emergencies?”

Lex laughed, handing her another one. “I wasn’t taking any chances. I figured if you’d seen and liked it, you’d cry. I figured if you hadn’t seen it, you’d like it and end up crying as well,” he teased as she threw the balled up Kleenex at him.

“You think you’ve got me figured out pretty good, don’t you?” she asked him.

Lex simply shrugged. “What can I say, I told you last week I discovered you were a hopeless romantic, I figured I’d be prepared,” he replied.

Chloe sighed, realizing he did have her pegged to some degree. “I can’t help it. I mean, Rick gave it all up, the woman he loved, a future with her, a life with her, simply because he loved her too much. It’s so sad when you think about it. All the mistakes and misunderstandings, how can you not cry?” Just talking about the unjustness of it all made her tear up again.

“I admit, it does make one think twice, and I’ll admit, the ending chokes me up," Lex said. "But I have to admire the guy for sacrificing his happiness for hers. I don't know if I could do it."

Chloe picked up on his thoughts, asking a question she’d often though about. “That’s always what gets me. That he walks away. I find myself wondering if he’s doing it because he wants to spare her pain, or because he knows he has a duty to let her get on with her life without him. It makes for some interesting conversation,” she said, seeing him turn to her with interest.

“I see what you’re saying, and you have a point. I think he did it because he knew she could be more help to more people, with her husband. If she’d stayed with him, he would have only made her unhappy in the long run.”

Chloe jumped in, immediately on the defense. “How do you know that? How do you know she wouldn’t have been happy being with him? She loved him. She loved him enough to give up everything for him. I believe she would have stayed with him through thick and thin, trouble and paradise. She loved him that much. To take the good with the bad, the sorrow with the joy.”

She suddenly realized how passionate she sounded. Because she, in some way, had transferred the situation in the movie onto her and Lex. She knew she’d stay with him, through thick or thin, good or bad. She loved him. But she had a feeling he might be more of a Rick, leaving her for her own good, and bowing to the wishes of his family. It was a depressing thought. Especially because she knew it would never come to that. He loved Helen. He was marrying Helen. He’d never have to make the choices Rick had in the movie.

Lex sighed as he pondered her words, having the same argument with himself every time he watched the movie. But he couldn’t seem to end up seeing it any other way. “Maybe you’re right, but I still believe he did the right thing. He loved her, but he knew they couldn’t be together, so he let her go. I think that only proves how much he does love her.” He looked over at Chloe and noted she had a strange, far away expression on her face.

“Imagine being loved that way. It must be a wonderful thing,” she whispered, almost to herself, but Lex again caught the words. And they again gave a sharp tug at his heart. It was obvious his friend wanted that kind of love. He hoped she found it because she deserved it. Though he didn't want to analyze why the thought of her in another man’s arms was making him seethe. “Who knows what the future brings. I always wondered what Rick did after sending her away,” he mused, knowing he had to make her smile again.

Chloe came back to the present at his words and forced herself to concentrate. “He probably opened another café someplace else, and pined away for her the rest of his life,” she said matter of factly, laughing at Lex's sigh.

“Miss optimism there aren’t we? I thought you of all people would believe that they’d find each other again, someday.” He felt a spurt of pride as her spirit returned and her eyes sparked.

“Well, much as I’d like to believe it, not everyone ends up with the happily ever after. This movie proves it. I have to be realistic at one time or another,” she said with a shrug.

Lex only smiled. “So, do you still respect me now that you know I have a weakness for old movies?” He was glad to hear her burst into laughter as he lightened the mood by steering the topic of discussion back to more neutral ground.

“Of course I respect you. I think it’s perfectly fine that you like this film. It shows the sensitive side to Lex Luthor, and I like it.”

“Good, I can sleep easier now, knowing you approve. Just don't mention it to Clark okay? I don't want to ruin the image he has of me as the suave and debonair Lex Luthor.”

Chloe pretended to look affronted, even though her eyes sparkled. “Don’t push it Luthor, or I’ll bring up your hot chocolate making skills again,” she warned as he burst into laughter.

“Okay, consider it dropped,” he added as he ducked the pillow she threw his way. Once again he was feeling more relaxed than he had all week. And once again, he didn’t want the night to end.

“So, you up for Leno?” He prayed she’d say yes.

Chloe smiled, heart filling as she looked at him. Who was she to say no when it was exactly what she wanted too? “But we’re switching over to Letterman at midnight, he’s got one of my favorite actors on and I don’t want to miss that interview,” she said as they settled back against the sofa. Chloe's heart leapt with happiness as Lex immediately returned his arm to its position around her shoulders, pulling her head to rest against his chest.

Lex looked at her in surprise, trying to block out how good she felt against him when she remained silent. “Not more Ewan McGregor? I don't think I can handle watching you drool over the man again."

Chloe simply sent him an enigmatic smile. “There are more wonderful, handsome actors in this world, although not many come close to Ewan. Still, you’ll just have to wait and see. The anticipation makes it more fun,” she teased, loving the look of playful frustration on his face.

“Ve have ways of making you talk,” he lisped as he leaned over her, a leer on his handsome features.

Chloe couldn’t help herself. She burst into laughter as his leer turned into a frown.

“What’s so funny? I thought it was a great impression of a vampire." He was slightly miffed at her laughter.

“Oh Lex, you don’t understand. No one can measure up to the one man I set the standard by when it comes to vampires,” she managed, seeing the puzzled look on his face.

“The man you set the standard by when it comes to vampires?”

Chloe nodded as she reached for the remote and flipped stations. “See, there he is, in all his glory.” She sighed as she turned her attention to the gorgeous man gracing the screen. However, she also used the move to settle herself a little deeper into his embrace. They weren't outrightly embracing, but she was, for lack of a better word, plastered against his side. It was a comfortable feeling being so close to him, heightened with a tingle of sensual awareness. But she pushed down those thoughts trying not to think how someone might interpret their position if anyone walked in.

Lex forced his body to relax as her scent surrounded him as she made herself comfortable against his side. He desperately wanted to wrap his other arm around her and hold her closer, but he knew if he did that, he'd probably do something else that they'd both regret. Like giving into the urge to kiss her senseless.

{{Bad thoughts Lex. Bad. Remember Helen. Remember that Chloe's your friend.}}

Trying to rid his mind of Chloe's lips beneath his, he turned to look at the object of her fascination. He looked again, wondering what in the world she saw in the man talking to David Letterman. He was good looking if you went for the buff look he supposed, but he wasn’t anything special. He didn’t recognize him either. But Chloe was almost drooling against his shoulder. He watched, fascinated as she remained glued to the TV, her eyes locked on the man’s face. He was starting to get annoyed.

“Chloe,” he began, only be stopped by a wave of her hand.

“I’m watching David, talk when he’s done.” The clipped sentence was delivered in his direction although her head never moved.

“David? Who the hell is this David? I’ve never even seen him before,” he muttered as Chloe shushed him again with a wave of her hand. He watched in growing frustration as Chloe drooled over the actor, feeling slightly put out that she’d forgotten he was in the room. He didn’t like her obsession with this other man. Even if he was an actor. He realized his thoughts were fast bordering on the dangerous and he forced them down, biding his time and praying for the commercial. He watched as Chloe sighed, her eyes dreamy as Letterman took a break.

“Isn’t he wonderful? I’m so in love with him, and his show,” she rambled, oblivious to the annoyed look Lex shot her way.

“I don’t see what’s so special about him,” he muttered, waving a hand in front of her face to bring her attention back to him. “Hello, attractive male sitting here? Did you forget about me?”

Chloe smiled as she read the annoyance in his eyes. It was rather sweet when she thought about it. “You’ve obviously never watched "Angel" have you?” She wasn't surprised when he shook his head in reply.

“This actor, David Boreanez, plays a vampire with a soul who’s forced to help those less fortunate in LA--”

“A vampire with a soul?" Lex interrupted her thought as he tried to process her words. "That guy plays a vampire? I thought they were sickly tall creatures?” He wasn't sure whether to be amused or offended at the laughter he read in her eyes.

“Well, he’s breaking the typical vampire stereotype. And I for one can say I prefer it. He can bite my neck any time.”

Lex watched her, not liking the image her words put in his head. He could see that actor, pressing his lips to Chloe’s neck. He was surprised at the bolt of jealousy that slammed through his system at the picture. Along with the thought that if anyone were to get anywhere near her neck, it would be him.

Chloe noticed the conflicting expressions on his face and wondered what he was thinking. Obviously her talk of vampires stirred something in him. “You look troubled, vampires not your thing?” She watched as he suddenly seemed to come back to himself.

Lex forced himself to pull it together, realizing Chloe was staring at him strangely. Thank goodness she couldn’t know what he’d been picturing in his mind. “It’s not that, actually, I’m fascinated by the supernatural. Another hidden facet you wouldn’t think of to look at Lex Luthor.” He wasn't surprised to see her eyes brighten.

“Really? What type of supernatural? As in Wall of Weird supernatural of X-Files supernatural?”

Lex smiled at her enthusiasm. He should have known she'd understand. “Not satanic or anything, but you know, films like the “Exorcist” really make me think. Then again, there’s good old-fashioned scariness, like an Alfred Hitchcock film, you can’t beat that for mind games. And every now and then, I need to see a good horror flick, and that’s something no one knows about Lex Luthor. No one would believe it."

Chloe laughed. “That makes two of us. Despite my romantic outlook on life, I love a good scary movie every now and then, I’ve also seen every Hitchcock movie out there, compliments of my dad, and the entire "Friday the 13th" and "Nightmare on Elm Street" series, thanks to Pete.” She felt her heart leap as Lex looked at her in amusement.

“Really? I wouldn’t have thought you’d like that kind of stuff. Then again, considering you founded the Wall of Weird, I don't know why I'm surprised."

Chloe shrugged. “It’s actually fun to watch, as long as I have someone with me. I can’t watch them alone, I need someone to grab onto,” she admitted as Lex laughed again.

“Ah ha, I’ve found your weakness," Lex said in a deeper voice than he realized. "You know, can count on me to lend you my body to grab if you ever feel the need to watch a horror movie.” Okay, that hadn't quite come out sounding like he wanted, but the quick flash of something in her eyes made his body temperature rise anyhow.

Chloe tried not to picture "grabbing" Lex for something definitely not fear related. She had to force down her blush, sure he hadn't meant it the way he sounded. But the look on his face sent a tingle through her body. Still, it was probably safer to skip the innuendo and move on.

“One of very few weaknesses I have. Consider yourself luck I'm letting you in on it,” she shot back as he smiled at her and nooded.

“So tell me more about this vampire show you seem to love," Lex said, letting her get away with changing the subject. He wasn't sure he was ready to deal with any innuendos she might shoot back. Not when his body was already far too aware of the woman next to him than was proper for their situation. "I can’t see what you see in this David guy though, he’s rather average to me.”

Chloe sighed, planning out a response when she heard Letterman come back on and turned back to catch the last half of the interview. “I’ll answer all your questions after this interview. I promise, everything you want to know about my fascination with vampires and the dark side,” she teased, focusing back on the TV and missing the heated look Lex sent her way.

He sighed as he settled back, content to watch her instead of the TV. He didn’t want to admit how anxious he was to hear more about this ‘vampire’ fascination. It was an intriguing side to the Chloe Sullivan he saw every day. It also turned him on in some strange way. He closed his eyes as he realized he was getting into very, very dangerous territory. But, he could handle it. He just had to keep telling himself she was his friend. His friend who had a thing for vampires…and neck biting. He forced those thoughts down, determined to forget about them and enjoy the rest of the night with Chloe. Although he knew he'd be haunted the whole next week by the image of his lips sucking gently at Chloe's neck.

~~~~~~~~~//~~~~~~~~~

[Sway]

oooooooooooh. david... lex... could life get better?? *looks at avi* maybe. :drool:

great chapter loved the not-quite-Chlex... awesome, i can totally see Lex as a Casablanca fan... well done. can't wait for the next one!!

:blinkkiss: Sway

[Queen Of Tact]

mmmmm Angel....... I'm with Chloe he can bite me any time he wants......

Lex likes chloe, lex likes chloe.....
I can't wait for the next ch.... post again soon...

CC

[drina]

mmmmm Angel....... I'm with Chloe he can bite me any time he wants......

i totally agree ;)

great to see the deepening relationship between lex and chloe. as for helen's frequent late nights, i bet there's something more to it... ;)

[bluemoongirl23]

So good. More now. Seriously, I love the way that you are writing the two of them. Especially their internal monologues where they have to keep reminding themselves that he's engaged. Can't wait for the next time when Chloe will be grabbing onto him.

Blue

[Sunflow]

Great chapter :) (although when Chloe said that "No one can measure up to the one man I set the standard by when it comes to vampires" I was more than sure that she was going to say that it was Coppolla's Dracula :devil: )

It'd be great if Lex didn't like Chloe's next movie choice (or the other way round), so there would be a lot of discussing, arguing, hugging, kissing... umm... *walks away to read some NC-17 stuff now*

Update soon! :)

Sunflow

[sabby]

MHMM you just gotta Love Casablanca and Chlex *sighs* wow thos fic is getting better with every chappy and I CAN'T WAIT to read the next!

please update soon, k?

hugs,
Sabby

[sydsvaughn]

Ch. 4- Meet Me At The Fair

Notes, disclaimers, etc. in Part 1

~*~*~*~*~*~

Lex smiled as he pulled up in front of the Sullivan house. It was 8 o’clock on a Friday night and he was earlier than usual for their “Friday Fun” night. Chloe had asked him to come over around 8 and dress comfortably for walking. He had to admit, he was intrigued by her message. Usually they’d watch movies and then end the night with Leno or Letterman. He couldn’t begin to describe how much more he knew about Chloe Sullivan after the past few weeks, or how much she knew about him. Normally, the thought of anyone knowing so much about him would have made him wary, but with Chloe, he thought nothing of it. It was a feeling he'd decided, like plenty others he was having, not to analyze too closely for the moment. Besides, tonight he had a feeling he was going to learn even more about Chloe’s tastes and he couldn’t wait.

He had a brief moment of guilt as he realized he never had been so excited about doing anything with Helen. Then again, Helen didn't seem to be too interested in doing anything other than work with him lately. She had more and more weekend business trips or pulled longer hospital shifts. Sadly, he couldn't find himself feeling too bad, because her absence allowed him his time with Chloe.

Refusing to feel guilty a moment longer, he took a deep breath as he reached the front door and knocked, waiting patiently until it was opened by a smiling Chloe.

“Lex, come in, I’ll just be a minute,” she said holding open the door and ushering him inside.

Chloe smiled as her breath caught at the picture he made. He was again wearing jeans and a purple button down shirt that framed his broad shoulders perfectly while it brought out the stunning color of his eyes. Topped off with a soft brown leather jacket that made him look even more handsome than usual. She was surprised her heart was still beating.

Lex was doing his own once over, feeling his heart rate speed up at the tight jeans she wore that hugged her figure, topped off by a thick, oversize green sweater that brought out the color of her eyes. She wore her now shoulder length hair lose and free, framing her face exactly the way he liked it. He smiled as she grabbed a coat from the hall closet, then reached to help her slip it on, running his fingers through her hair as he freed it from the collar of her jacket. He forced his breathing to remain normal at the silky feel of her skin as it brushed against his fingertips.

Chloe closed her eyes a moment as she felt his warm fingers move against her scalp as he helped her with her jacket. His touch was so gentle, yet so arousing. She’d never told anyone how sensitive the nape of her neck was. She shivered as she stepped away, knowing it would do no good to start thinking along these lines.

“So, are you ready to experience yet another of life’s "simple pleasures" tonight?” She suddenly needed to break the intimacy of the moment they’d just shared.

Lex came back to himself at her words, forcing his mind to stay away from thoughts of "pleasures" involving Chloe. Which was definitely easier said than done. “I think I can handle whatever you’ve got planned Chloe. And by the way, what exactly is that?” He had to catch his breath as she gave him a heart-stopping smile.

“You’ll see, you ready to go?” He nodded, holding open the screen door for her. Chloe took a deep breath of the crisp night air glad to see the weather was cooperating perfectly with her plans.

“So at some point in time you are going to tell me where we’re going aren't you? Or should I just drive blindly until you tell me to stop?” He wasn't sure whether to be wary or delighted at the Cheshire cat smile she gave him as she slipped into his car.

“To Smallville Park,” was all she said as he started the car and they headed out into the night. She sighed as she sank back against the seat, looking over and noting how relaxed Lex seemed with the night air flowing in through the open windows. The stress lines around his eyes were still there, but she knew they’d be gone by the time she was through with him tonight. She hoped he was ready.

“So what’s going on at the park?” He was intrigued by the smile she sent his way.

“The Smallville Town Fair, and I’m going to win you a gigantic stuffed animal,” she said with satisfaction, seeing him turn to her with a quizzical expression.

“A fair? Chloe, please explain to me why it's so important we go to a fair and while you're at it, why I would want a gigantic stuffed animal?”

Chloe sighed as she realized he’d probably never attended one of these fairs in his life. Never thrown a dart at a balloon to win a prize or spun around crazily in a 'Tilt-A-Whirl." He really had been deprived, but she was going to change that. “Trust me, you’ll see."

Lex shrugged and smiled, simply content to be away from work and spending time with Chloe. More and more the only thing that got him through his stressful week was the anticipation of these Friday nights.

“Okay, I trust you know what you're doing Chloe, but a word of caution first,” he stated as he opened the car door and helped her out, smiling at her curious look. "Isn't this a little public? I mean, what is everyone going to say seeing us together?" He didn't like the wounded look that suddenly appeared on her face although he could understand what she might be thinking from the way he phrased the question. "I mean, not that I don't want to be seen with you, I have no problems with that, but are you okay with explaining why we're together?"

Chloe pushed down the instinctive hurt that lanced through her at his words although she knew he meant them a different way than they sounded. And he brought up a good point, one she'd worried about before planning this night. However, she'd come up with the perfect alibi and only hoped he'd go along with it.

"Simple. People know I'm working the media coverage for the wedding, so it's logical I'd be seen with you, planning things, especially with Helen away." She smiled at the admiring look he gave her.

"Um … Chloe… it's a good thought, but why would we be planning my wedding's media coverage at a town fair?" He knew it was a legitimate question and he wasn't surprised to see by her crafty smile that she had an answer.

"Lex, you know your wedding will bring in a lot of people." She pressed on as she saw the confusion still clouding his features. "People who will need places to stay and eat in Smallville since I don't think you plan on housing or catering more than 200 guests for an entire weekend." She stopped again and gestured around her at the small booths of various types manned by the people of Smallville. "Now imagine how much business some of the townspeople could do if their wares were showcased at the appropriate places. Tonight, we're sampling the wares."

Lex was impressed with her rationale for being seen in public with him, although he had to admit, she had a point about observing the local wares. Despite the fact he could be the bastard so many here thought him to be, the few that actually saw beneath the surface were worth it. If he could help them out by sending business their way, he'd be glad to do it.

"You amaze me Chloe." He felt his heart stop at the brilliant smile she gave him, obviously relieved he wasn't going to shoot her idea down. "Not only have you found a way for us to be in public together, but you've found a way to allow the people of Smallville and my wedding guests to benefit. Is there anything you can't do?"

Chloe had to force down the instinctive 'get you to love me' response that wanted to fall from her lips. But since she knew that wouldn't happen, she opted for her standard verbal judo.

"Well… maybe score an interview for the final edition of the "Torch" with Smallville's most misunderstood bald billionaire." She felt her heart lighten as Lex erupted into genuine laughter. The strange looks coming from the people around them only heightened her own amusement of the situation.

"Oh Chloe, don't you know it's as simple as asking?" Lex watched her mouth drop open in surprise. She looked rather cute, stammering for words as she realized the truth of his statement.

Chloe fought down the blush as she realized he spoke the truth. She hadn't asked him for an interview yet. She perked up as she realized the bright side was that he seemed willing to give her an interview. There would be no looking this gift horse in the mouth.

"Well discuss this issue later." She laughed herself as Lex pretended to look shocked. "My first mission tonight is to make you see what you've been missing all your life." With that, she grabbed his hand and began tugging him along with her.

'That would be you' he thought to himself as he decided to forget about anything depressing for the next few hours. Neither realized that they were still holding hands as they began to wander among the small booths that lined the park.

When a few strange looks alerted Lex to the fact that they were still holding hands he felt a pang of loss at the thought of letting go. So he improvised, linking her arm through his in a friendly gesture. His heart warmed when she smiled and sent him a grateful look.

Lex was amazed at how young he felt as he allowed Chloe to pull him from merchant to merchant, nodding whenever someone recognized either of them. Much to his surprise, people smiled and actually greeted him. He had to believe it was simply because he was with Chloe, although she simply scoffed when he mentioned it to her.

"Lex, you insist on believing these people see you like they do your father. You've proven to them over the years you are nothing like them. Well, at least most of them believe that, and those who don't, well it's their loss."

He refused to acknowledge how much her words meant to him. Not to mention the fact she didn't seem intimidated to be walking amongst people she knew with her arm linked through his. He knew he should probably let go of her arm where it rested in the crook of his, but something selfish inside him did not want to give up the sensation.

"Lex, hello, where'd I lose you?"

He came back to the present at her words, noticing she was watching him with an amused smile.

"Sorry, I was just wondering what that appealing smell was coming from that booth over there." It was a quick reply, but a truthful one as a delicious scent suddenly filled his nostrils.

Chloe noticed his fascination and smiled as she dragged him over to the vending booths. "I think you need a funnel cake, complete with powdered sugar,” she said with determination as she stepped up and ordered one from the smiling vendor.

“A funnel cake? What’s that?”

Chloe shook her head sadly at his obviously confused words. “I can’t believe you’ve never had one of these." Seeing his curious look, she sighed and pulled him up next to her so he could see over the counter to the smiling man working behind it. "They’re the perfect things for your stomach when you’re at a fair. You’re going to love it." With a huge smile, she took the pastry the man handed her and she paid him with a few dollars.

Lex looked at the confection she held, hearing his stomach growl as the delicious scent wafted to his nose. It actually looked quite good. Messy but good.

Chloe led him over to a free table near the vending booths, smiling as she noted there weren't that many people around them. Perfect for showing Lex the correct way to eat a funnel cake.

"Now Lex, there's an art to eating a funnel cake, so watch carefully and learn from the master." Seeing his amused grin, she broke off a small piece of the pastry, inhaling the wonderful fragrance before carefully extending her tongue to lick the powdered sugar from the surface and then pop the morsel in her mouth.

"Mmmmm… now this is pure and total heaven." She sighed ecstatically, closing her eyes as the flavors burst over her tongue, licking her lips as she swallowed. When the sensation had passed, she opened her eyes to find Lex watching her with a hooded expression that she couldn't read. It was still intense enough however to send a bolt of arousal through her body.

Lex knew it had to be illegal to do what Chloe had just done with her lips and tongue to that piece of pastry. His eyes had grown wide as he'd watched her pink little tongue come out to carefully lick the powdered sugar off the baked dough, feeling a bead of sweat roll down his forehead as she carefully removed every speck of sugar. He'd had to swallow hard to hold back a moan as he'd watched her pop the morsel into her mouth, her sigh as she swallowed making arousal course through him. Watching her lick her lips had nearly given him a heart attack and he knew only that he couldn't watch her eat again without doing something drastic.

"What? Never seen anyone enjoy their food before?" Chloe couldn't help but feel a tingle at the way his eyes looked into hers, a hint of something desperate in them making her tremble. If she weren't so inexperienced, she'd say Lex Luthor was looking at her as if he'd like to taste her instead of the funnel cake. It was an appealing, if definitely inappropriate thought. But it gave her the courage to do what she did next.

"Okay, your turn." That said, she broke off a piece of the cake and held it to his lips. She refused to think of how intimate the gesture was as his tongue darted out to follow her example, licking the dough clean of sugar before his lips closed around the confection, gently brushing her fingers as she quickly pulled them back.

The jolt of that contact, mixed with the sweetness of the cake was enough to make Lex draw in a deep breath. He swallowed, forcing his mind to ignore the feel of her soft skin against his lips.

“That’s actually pretty good,” he managed, knowing he shouldn't but ignoring his conscious as he reached to break off another piece of the cake. He held it to her lips this time as her eyes locked with his. He held his breath as her soft lips brushed against his fingers and he could swear he felt the tip of her tongue against his skin. He had to hold back a groan as she pulled away with a nervous smile.

Chloe only hoped her heart wasn't in her eyes as she tried to get things back on an even keel.
“See, I told you you’d like it, everyone has to have a funnel cake when they’re at a fair,” she said with satisfaction, glad to change the subject as he laughed and pulled back.

“If this is one of those "simple things" I’ve missed, I’m glad you’ve shown me it." He felt a sensual smile break over his face as he realized he'd never been more glad to learn something new. And the cake hadn't been that bad either!

"I think I’m going to have to take some of these home with me,” he mused even as he tore off another piece and popped it in his mouth, munching thoughtfully while Chloe watched with a huge smile. He really wanted to feed her again but knew it would be pushing the boundaries of his control.

Chloe suddenly realized she felt strangely free. She was seeing yet another side to Lex that she was sure he didn’t show too often. He looked so carefree and young, savoring the taste of something as simple as a funnel cake, in the crisp night air. She gasped as she felt something brush against her leg, turning to see a small group of children, dressed up in various costumes.

“Sorry Miss, it’s kind of tough to see in this mask,” one of them replied as the group took off.

“It’s Halloween weekend, isn’t it?” Lex suddenly noted as he watched the figures disappear in the crowd.

“Yes it is, did you forget?” she teased him as he pretended to look affronted.

“Well, the Luthors never did much for Halloween. I mean, when I was a kid, it wasn’t too much fun because I was always off at boarding school, and they were pretty strict.” He decided it was best no to mention how he'd spent Halloween in some of his wilder teenage years. He shuddered at the memories.

“Well, we’re going to change that too. I can’t believe you didn’t get dressed up and go trick or treating or to Halloween parties, or even see-”

The words she had been about to speak suddenly triggered something in her mind. She couldn’t. He’d literally die and probably kill her in the process. But then again, how much fun would it be?

And who was it that said you only live once? Probably someone who didn't know Lex Luthor.

Still, the image was too intriguing to push away. She pushed her excitement down for the moment however, determined to see how the night played out. She’d wait and see what kind of mood Lex was in by midnight.

“What are you smiling about?” Lex felt a strange sense of foreboding at the look she was giving him.

“Oh nothing, just thinking about past Halloweens and such.” She was glad he seemed to let the matter drop as she rose from the table and linked their arms again as she pulled him back towards the fair.

“So, I take it you dressed up every Halloween, mind if I ask what your favorite costume was?” Lex knew she was keeping something from him, but like the true businessman he was, knew she'd eventually tell him, if he subtly worked her into it. But until he could figure out a plan, he found himself truly wanting to know what Chloe had been for past Halloweens. He was picturing her dressed as Woodward or Bernstein, or hell, even one of Smallville notorious meteors. He wouldn't put it past her with her fascination for the subject.

“Truth?” She hid her evil smile as he nodded. This was going to be fun. “I think the year I went as an exotic dancer. I must admit, I surprised a lot of people that year,” she mused, missing the shocked expression on Lex’s face.

“An exotic dancer?” Lex found his mind suddenly bombarded with images of Chloe dressed in a skimpy outfit. It was enough to start a flame deep inside him that he didn’t want to acknowledge. He couldn’t afford to. But it burned nonetheless. Not to mention the irrational spark of jealousy he now felt at realizing one of his best friends, whom she'd formerly had a crush on, had probably seen her so scantily clad.

Chloe smiled as she watched him struggle to figure out what he was feeling. His face was really easy to read, when you knew him as well as she did. Although she had to admit, she hoped it wasn't her own foolish hopes that he was indeed picturing her with significantly less clothing on. But, she knew now was not the time to go down that road. So, like the good friend she was, she'd take the path more often traveled.

“What, you don’t think I could pull it off?” She pretended to be upset, secretly amused at the panicked expression that crossed Lex's features.

Lex grimaced, his mind still picturing Chloe in a bevy of exotic silks and lace, dancing for him, even as he wondered how to answer her question without getting them both into trouble. “It’s not so much that, it’s just, it doesn’t quite go with your image,” he muttered, hearing her laugh.

“That’s exactly why I did it. Lana almost had a heart attack when I showed up. Let’s just say thank God my dad wasn’t there. He’d have had me out of there and back home in my flannel pajamas faster than I could say “Halloween,”” she mused with a smile.

Lex was still trying to picture Chloe appearing in front of people dressed as an exotic dancer. “So, I take it the costume was a hit?” He wondered at her strange smile.

“You could say that. The person I wanted to notice wasn’t there, but the males there almost made up for him,” she finished softly, knowing the one person she’d wanted to impress was standing next to her. Even though she’d known he wouldn’t be there, she’d still hoped. Oh well, the past was the past.

“Well, I’m sure he’ll regret it forever.” Lex realized he was already regretting not being there to see her. He felt no pity for the other man.

“Anyhow, that was probably my favorite, I do love Halloween, there’s so much tradition in it,” she stated as they continued to meander through the booths.

“I’m seeing that." Of course, Lex was watching and enjoying her delight instead of the surroundings. Now that he took a moment to think about things, he was actually having a wonderful time, the night a perfect antidote to a rough week.

“Oh look, there’s a game booth, come on.”

He let Chloe pull him over to the smiling vendor, noticing the back wall was filled with balloons and the booth itself was surrounded by huge, fluffy animals.

“I told you I was going to win you one, now watch the master,” she told him confidently, laying down a dollar and accepting the three darts from the man.

Lex bit back his laughter as she threw her first dart, missing the entire board by a mile. “You sure you don’t want me to try?” He chuckled as he saw her turn and frown at him.

“I’m just getting warmed up,” she muttered, taking careful aim and letting the second dart fly. She heard Lex snicker behind her as the dart landed squarely between two balloons. “If you don’t contain yourself, I might just aim this third one at you,” she told him silkily, hearing him choke back his laughter.

She’d never tell him, but she knew she wouldn’t win anything, she was horrible at these types of games. But she’d gotten him to laugh. It was worth all the humiliation. Still, she tried to psyche herself up as she took careful aim with her final dart. She hollered with joy when it hit its target, breaking one balloon with a loud ‘pop!’

“Nicely done young lady, but with only one, you get a hat, not an animal,” the vendor said with a wry smile. Chloe wasn’t going to complain as she felt Lex come up next to her.

“Allow me to choose your hat.” His amused words made her suspicious as she turned and saw him reaching for the huge straw and flowery confection dominating the display. It was horrendous. She winced as every cell in her body rebelled. But when she saw the evil smile on Lex's face, she knew she would wear the damn hat, if only to prove his expression wrong. She hid her grimace as he set the hat on her head, biding her time until she could make him pay.

“Well, is it just perfect with the outfit?” She knew her voice held a wry tone, but did a quick twirl anyhow, seeing him fighting back the laughter in his eyes. “Go ahead and laugh. But remember, you chose it, not me,” she said as he finally gave into his mirth.

The vendor was now smiling at them with amusement. “So, would the young man like to try and win the prize for his lady?”

Lex felt a strange satisfaction at the vendor's thinking they were a couple. He felt no need to correct him at the moment. “He’d love to,” he replied, stepping forward and pulling out a dollar. It looked like fun. And he couldn’t wait to tease her if he actually won her an animal.

Chloe simply smiled, her heart still reeling from the fact that Lex hadn’t discouraged the vendor when he’d called her his "lady." She cheered wildly as his first dart hit home. “Not bad, you’ve got some hidden talent there Luthor,” she teased, seeing him smile through his concentration.

“It’s all in the wrist, you just have to know where to aim,” he muttered as he launched the second dart.

Chloe jumped and clapped when it again hit home. “You sure you haven’t done this before?” she said, a bit miffed that he was two for two.

Lex simply smiled, hearing the irritation in her voice. “Nope, it’s a first for me.” He took aim again and let the final dart fly.

Chloe laughed as it hit its mark, bursting two balloons with the impact. “I think you're holding out on me Lex." She felt tingly at the look he shot her before the vendor caught his attention.

"Nicely done sir, that’s four hits, so you get your pick of the largest animal here,” the vendor said with a smile as he pointed to the huge stuffed teddy bears sitting above him.

Lex smiled as he watched the sparkle in Chloe’s eyes as she looked at the huge bears. “Whatever you want Chloe, it’s yours,” he said with a smile, seeing her eyes light up as she pointed to a huge white bear with a dark blue bow.

“That one, he’s perfect,” she whispered, avoiding his eyes so he couldn’t see the tears filling hers. The way he’d said “whatever you want” had really gotten to her. If only she could tell him what she really wanted. But, that wasn’t to be. Still, Lex had just won her a stuffed bear, and from the looks of things, had had fun doing it. Another first. She couldn’t stop the smile that spread over her face as she turned and saw Lex smiling back.

“So, I think we’ve proven who’s more ‘manly’ tonight,” he teased, seeing her eyes sparkle at his challenge.

“So, I can’t play darts, but I have plenty of other hidden talents, just you wait and see Lex Luthor,” she shot back with a sassy smile as she turned and headed into the crowd.

Lex told his pulse to calm and his mind to stop imagining what exactly those "hidden" talents were.

Chloe smiled as she felt him catch up to her, automatically reaching for her hand. She expected him to once again slip it into the crook of his arm, but to her surprise, he remained holding it tightly in his. She forced her heartbeat to slow, knowing it was a friendly gesture, not to mention a risky one. But she could not deny the thrill at walking hand in hand with him.

Lex hadn’t even realized what he was doing until they started walking. He fought the urge to again move her hand to the safer territory of his arm, realizing he didn't want to let it go. There was something about holding hands with Chloe that was entirely different about holding hands with Helen. The thought of his fiancée brought a small bit of guilt, but not enough to want to let Chloe's hand go. He knew he needed to stop touching her altogether because if anyone saw them things could get complicated. But he couldn’t seem to bring himself to let go. He was having too much fun and the feeling of her soft hand in his was too good to give up.

For the first time in his life, Lex Luthor felt like a normal person. Here he was, the future head of one of the world's largest, most powerful corporations, walking hand in hand with Chloe Sullivan through a street fair. He’d won her a stuffed animal, let him feed her food that he knew would clog his arteries, and through it all, he’d thoroughly enjoyed himself. Because he was with Chloe. He knew the knowledge should have scared him, but he really, really didn't want to think about the right or wrong of things at the moment. He simply wanted to live in this moment with Chloe and forget everything and everyone else.

Chloe felt her heart soar as she realized she’d never felt happier in her life. Despite how wrong so many people would see this situation, she was on top of the world simply from holding hands with Lex Luthor in the moonlight. Thoughts of Helen, of their age difference, of everything that should be standing in their way faded in this perfect moment. She clutched her bear tightly in one arm and held onto Lex’s hand with the other.

The two walked in a contented silence, exchanging comments about a certain artist’s work or craft as they made their way back towards the parking lot. By the time they reached the car, Chloe was the proud owner of a vivid watercolor painting, two glow-in-the-dark alien earrings and a matching necklace. Lex, much to his amazement, was sporting a baseball cap that said “The Truth Is Out There” along with his own glow-in-the-dark watch that played the theme from "Alias" at the top of every hour.

Yet another thing they’d discovered they had in common. Both were huge “Alias” fans. Though Lex did not get to watch nearly as much as he’d have liked to, Chloe, not to his surprise, was a devoted viewer and had filled him in on the basics of what he'd missed in about 10 minutes. They’d had an interesting and enlightening conversation as they walked, about secret government agencies, mother issues and forbidden relationships between agents.

“It’s frustrating is what it is,” Chloe huffed as the reached the car and Lex opened the door for her. “I mean, there’s so much damn unresolved sexual tension between them, it’s almost a crime not to resolve it,” she ranted as Lex settled in next to her.

“I agree, but you know how writers think. Don’t get the couple together because all the spark and sizzle will leave the relationship. It’s frustrating, but a common thought process,” he said as he headed out of the parking lot.

“Fine, but if it was written correctly, it could work. It’s just frustrating, especially because I know I could write it so it would work,” she muttered as Lex laughed.

“Miss Hard Hitting journalist wants to write romance for TV? You continue to surprise me Miss Sullivan.” He chuckled as she shot him a typical "Chloe" look as he stressed her last name.

“Is that a good thing Mr. Luthor?” she teased, hoping he couldn’t hear the seriousness in her voice.

Lex smiled as he reached over to brush a strand of hair out of her face.

“It’s a wonderful thing,” he said softly as he turned back to the wheel, refusing to acknowledge the spark he’d felt fly between them at the light touch.

Talk about "unresolved sexual tension," Chloe thought to herself with a shiver of arousal.

[sydsvaughn]

“So, its 11:30 at night, are we done or do you want to catch Leno?” Lex hoped he didn't sound desperate, but once again he didn’t want their Friday night to end. “He might have some Halloween theme tonight and there’s nothing better than watching people dressed up as the craziest, zaniest things you’ve ever seen,” he added, missing the strange smile that appeared on Chloe's face.

“Well,” she began, seeing his attention focus on her. “You like seeing people dressed up in outrageous costumes and doing strange things?” she asked, seeing him nod enthusiastically.

“Yes. Not that people would think it of Lex Luthor." It was true, Luthors were supposed to be refined and elegant not outrageous of fanciful. "But there’s something fun about getting into a character or role. I never had time to act in school, not to mention it was not something a Luthor would do, but I always thought it might be fun. To totally be someone else for a change, it was really appealing when I was younger,” he muttered, realizing he meant the words.

Chloe heard the wistfulness in his tone and felt her excitement building. “So how do you feel about being surrounded by people who are playing at characters that are so totally opposite from themselves that they’re almost, shocking,” she said carefully, seeing him look at her strangely.

“Why do you ask?” He wondered if he should be afraid of the strange look in her eyes.

“I’m just thinking, there’s a classic movie playing at midnight at a theater a little ways outside of town, but it’s not quite the usual fare. It’s a perfect Halloween thing, but I don’t know if you’d be up to it, it’s really not a Luthor thing,” she mused, hiding her smile as he bristled at her challenge.

Lex knew he’d just been challenged and by God, he wasn’t going to ignore it. “I think I can handle anything you’ve got. Besides, I told you I don’t mind seeing people dressed up or looking out of character, it can actually be liberating.” He wondered what he'd said when she burst into laughter.

Chloe continued to laugh as she directed him to the movie theater she had in mind. This was going to be fun.

Twenty minutes later they pulled up to the theater and Lex’s eyes widened as he took in the crowd of people standing in front of the ticket booth. The crowd of very, very strange looking people standing in front of the ticket booth.

“What the hell?” Chloe was nearly doubled over with laughter at his horrified look.

“I forgot to ask, how do you feel about men in fishnet stockings and high heels?” She keeled over again with laughter at Lex’s shocked stare.

“Um… Chloe, where the hell have you brought me? Is there something you're not telling me about your sexual preferences?” Lex knew he sounded confused but tried to make light of the situation as Chloe laughed and came around to pull him out of the car.

"Chloe, you're scaring me." Not exactly the truth, since he suddenly found himself fascinated by the strange people now surrounding them. Was that man actually wearing fishnet stockings and high heels?

“Well, if I had any questions before, I don’t now." Chloe really tried to control her laughter but wasn't doing a very good job. There was something so amusing yet appealing about his stunned expression. "You’ve never seen the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” have you?” She pulled him into line even as he shook his head, smiling at the short man dressed in a black bustier and fishnet stockings standing in front of them.

“No, and I'm not sure I want to now.” Lex suddenly remembered the things he’d heard about this movie from some of his more unsavory friends in boarding school. From their stories, he hadn’t been sure he wanted to see it. It sounded totally like something a Luthor would abhor, and he wouldn't be caught dead there if his other rich friends found out. But deep inside, he had admitted to a spark of curiosity. Now, as he watched the bald guy with a hunched back in front of them give Chloe a leer, he wasn't sure if he wanted to explore that deep hidden curiosity.

“Lex, if this is too much, I understand, we can go." She meant the words, sympathizing with how out of place he must feel. There were just some things that Luthor's might not be able to stomach."Some people just can’t take the Rocky Horror experience,” she said with sympathy, letting him know that it truly was okay if he wanted to leave.

He debated for a moment in his mind, wondering if he could actually survive a night surrounded by these strange people, seeing a movie he’d heard was stranger than any other one ever made. Then again, maybe he was missing out on something. Chloe seemed to think he was. Then again, if anyone saw him here, he'd probably never live it down. Lionel would probably have a heart attack. The thought made him suddenly smile.

“Okay, let’s do it." He smiled as her face lit up as she spontaneously reached up and hugged him, quickly pulling away as the familiar spark shot between them.

“You’re sure?” she asked, choosing to ignore the way her heart was pounding from the abbreviated hug.

“I’m sure, just promise me you’ll protect me,” he teased as she swatted him on the arm.

“I won’t let anything happen to you. Besides, you’re going to love it once you get into it, I promise,” she said as they reached the ticket booth.

“I’m going to take your word on it,” he muttered as he watched the teller hand Chloe two small paper bags along with the tickets.

“You sure you don’t want me to get this?” he asked as the blonde shook her head.

“This is my Friday night for you, I’ve got it covered,” she answered, smiling and handing him a paper bag.

“What’s this for?” he asked, opening it and staring at the contents.

“Props. Trust me, you’ll see. Basically it’s a crowd thing, what they do, you do. It’s kinda fun, very liberating,” she teased as they moved towards the doors.

Lex sighed as he followed her, still feeling slightly apprehensive as they were surrounded by people of every size and shape and in the strangest outfits he could imagine. Boy, would his family be shocked to see him now. The thought again made him smile as he took a closer look at what the people were wearing. It was rather amusing to see all these different people dressed up like the same seven or eight characters.

“Lex? Is that you?”

The familiar voice had both of them turning around to meet the surprised expressions on Clark and Lana's faces.

“Clark? Lana? What are you two doing here?” Chloe asked as her friends came over to them.

“I believe we could ask the same question of you,” Lana replied, taking in her friend and her companion with a raised eyebrow.

“Don’t ask, I’ll explain it to you later,” Chloe whispered back, seeing the concern in her friend’s eyes.

“I hope you know what you’re doing." Chloe couldn't help but feel a hint of worry as she noted her friend's concern with a nod.

“So do I,” she replied with a sigh, turning to smile as Clark greeted Lex.

“I don't know if I should be shocked or amused. I can't believe you let Chloe drag you to this.” Lex could only shrug as he shook hands with his friend.

“I take it from that that you’ve seen this before?” Lex laughed himself as Clark suddenly looked hesitant.

"Not exactly. I promised Lana we'd do whatever she wanted and she brought me here. I don't know whether to be afraid or amused."

Lex knew exactly how his friend was feeling. He was also glad Clark hadn't said anything about Chloe being with him. Of course, Clark's gaze had yet to leave Lana, so he probably wasn't processing the fact that two of his closest friends were seeing a movie together.

“I’m leaning towards afraid. Be very afraid." Lex and Clark both frowned at Chloe's words as she and Lana began to laugh hysterically.

“I'm still trying to get over the fact that Lex actually let you drag him here. I'd think he wouldn't be caught dead being seen by anyone here. Especially Helen, what would she think?” Lex knew Lana spoke the truth, but he couldn't help but feel a little put out at his friend's words. Not to mention a bit uncomfortable that Lana had brought up the topic he'd expected Clark to.

Chloe smiled even as her stomach clenched as she read his expression clearly and moved over to casually link her arm through his, smiling at him for reassurance. "Lex tonight is allowing me to show him some of the "simpler things" in life that he's missed out on." She smiled at his relieved expression. "For that, he's suspending disbelief and risking his reputation, I'm flattered." She smiled as the others laughed and Lex squeezed her arm in silent thanks.

“Well, on that note," Lana said with an evil smile, "we’re going to have to educate these ‘virgins’ aren’t we Chloe.” Both women cracked up at the stunned looks that passed over both of the males standing next to them.

“I think we are, you think they can handle it?” Chloe winked at Lana as she watched Lex struggle for words.

“Hey, excuse me, we are here you know." Lex was struggling to find words now that the image of being "educated" by Chloe had entered his head. He could tell by Clark's stunned expression that his friend was probably having the same thoughts about Lana. This was definitely not good, although he had to admit, the images in his head were extremely appealing.

"Um Lex, do you get the feeling we're really missing something here?"

{{Oh Clark, you only know the half of it}}

He shook himself out of his thoughts at the women's laughter, shooting his friend a sympathetic look. "Clark, one thing you have to learn about women is that if you ask them, they'll always feel we men are missing something." He chose to ignore the annoyed look Chloe shot him.

“Well, let’s go do the time warp again,” Lana suddenly interjected, slipping an arm around Clark’s waist as she motioned for Lex and Chloe to follow.

“You’re sure about this?” Chloe had to be sure before she dragged him inside. And truthfully, she wouldn't be surprised if he wanted to pack it up and go before setting foot inside the theater. Still, she couldn't help but give him a pleading look that she knew most males of her acquaintance couldn't resist.

Lex looked at her, seeing the eagerness and the challenge in her eyes. It was hopeless. How could he ever expect to resist a Chloe Sullivan pleading look?

“All right, let’s do it. Although if you say one word to anyone about this I will kill you and make it look like an accident.” He knew he'd made the right choice when he saw the smile break over her face. Sighing, he let her drag him into the theater, wincing as a tall man in fishnets shot him an admiring look.

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

An hour later, Chloe was laughing hysterically as the four of them attempted to do the "time warp."

After his initial hesitation about getting up and joining the crowd, with a little coaxing from Lana, an amused look from Clark, and assurances from Chloe that no one would recognize him among the other bald heads in the room, Lex had thrown himself into the experience. He was surprised to find himself thoroughly enjoying it.

He easily picked up on the jokes and expressions, getting a kick out of throwing rice and toast at a movie screen. He was also enjoying the way Chloe was throwing herself into the experience. He had to admit, watching her do the "time warp" certain turned up the heat in his lower body a notch. But knowing where those thoughts would lead he tried to distract himself by getting more into the movie. It really was a stupid plot and the acting was horrid. He couldn’t believe that was Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon up there. But he had to admit, he hadn’t laughed this hard in his life. He looked over and noticed Clark was enjoying himself as well, screaming with the crowd and doing the moves as a smiling Lana looked on. At least he wouldn't be alone tomorrow in his private humiliation.

“See, I told you you’d get into it,” Chloe yelled against his ear as she swiveled her hips in time with the music.

Lex simply laughed and jumped to the left, colliding with Clark who was still trying to get his balance. “Come on Clark, its "jump to the left." You're moving to your right."

Clark shot him an evil look. “Careful Luthor, if only your family could see you now,” he shot back, seeing his friend burst into laughter.

“My father would have a heart attack, maybe we should call him." He lost interest in Clark then as Chloe bumped against him as she thrust her hips in time with the music. The brush of her thighs against his was enough to make him draw in a deep breath as he imagined placing his hands on her waist and bringing her hips against his.

“It’s fun isn’t it?” Chloe yelled in his ear, even as Lana smiled over at her and threw a piece of toast for good measure.

“More so than you know." He was glad Chloe couldn't read his thoughts as she swayed next to him. He had a feeling she'd be shocked if she knew how much "fun" he was having watching her.

“Told you you’d like it, fishnet stockings and all.” Chloe felt perfectly happy as he laughed and threw a handful of rice at her. She refused to acknowledge the sudden image that hit her mind of rice being thrown at Lex and Helen's wedding. The thought was depressing and she didn’t want to be depressed at the moment. She pushed it down instead and turned her attention to screaming out the lyrics of "Touch Me."

By the final chorus, the four of them were hoarse from screaming as they did the "time warp" up the aisle and out of theater with the rest of the crowd. As they finally made it back to the parking lot, they were still laughing at the night’s events.

“I’m never going to forget your version of “I’m Just a Sweet Transvestite,” I didn’t know you had it in you Lex." Clark, Lana and Chloe shook with laughter as Lex struck a pose.

“It actually was a very catchy song, how could you not join in with the crowd. And don't think I won't mention your version of "Dammit Janet" Clark.” This time it was Clark who blushed and the others who laughed hysterically.

“I swear this has been the most enlightening night of my life. I don't think I'll ever be able to look at either of you the same way again." Chloe winked at Lana as the two women smiled at each other.

“I can’t believe I enjoyed that so much. I feel like I shouldn’t have.” Chloe laughed at Lana's words even as she smiled evilly at her friend.

“Oh come on Lana, now you know why I sing what I sing when I go into one of my moods.” She was happy to note Lex's eyebrows rise at her mysterious words even as Lana's eyes widened in comprehension, a blush staining her cheeks as she doubled over with laughter.

Lex and Clark looked between the two women with amused and curious expressions.

"And what mood would this be Chloe?” Lex was intrigued by Lana's blush and Chloe's amused look.

Chloe smiled through her laughter, praying she could keep it together. “Don’t you wish you knew?” she taunted as Lana doubled over again.

“Oh God, Chloe did you have to tell me that? I’m never going to be able to get that picture out of my mind now.” Lana gasped for breath as the tears streamed down her face.

Clark and Lex again exchanged glances.

“Is anyone going to enlighten us poor males?” Clark asked, seeing both girls try to calm down.

“Sorry, that’s just something that’s between us housemates.” Chloe sobered, realizing that no matter how much she enjoyed teasing them, there was no way she was going to tell Lex about her little ‘moods’ when she often sang the chorus from “Touch Me” at the top of her lungs.

Especially because she was usually thinking of Lex at the time.

“Fine, be that way, see if we care.” Clark pretended to pout as they moved towards their cars. Lex simply remained silent, his mind already working on ways to make Chloe talk. He was proud that at least one of them did not involve feathers or blindfolds.

“I promise you, someday, maybe, I’ll tell you. If you're very good." Chloe almost choked as she heard Lana's whispered words to Clark as they all gathered around the cars to say good-bye. Lex's amused expression told her he'd heard their friends as well. Muttering quick good-byes, noting Lana and Clark were already getting absorbed in each others eyes, the two headed to Lex's car, the latter trying to persuade the former to clue him in to her big secret.

“You know, you’ve got me intrigued now. And when I want to know something, I don’t give up until I find out." Lex used his infamous "dire tone" even knowing it would get him nowhere with the blonde spitfire at his side. Still, he loved how her eyes sparkled as she laughed.

“Oh Lex, you don’t want to know, trust me."

“Oh yes I do Chloe. More than you can imagine.” He whispered the words to the night air as he closed the door and moved to the other side of the car. “You don’t know how much I want to know about you,” he muttered to himself as he opened the door and settled into the car.

“So, really Lex, did you enjoy it?” Chloe watched his face anxiously, hoping he'd tell her the truth. She sighed in relief as a genuine smile appeared on his face.

"It was definitely one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Not to mention it has now provided me with a lot of blackmail material on all three of you for life." He laughed at her annoyed expression. "Seriously though Chloe, I had a great time, and you have indeed shown me another "first," and it’s one I won’t soon forget.” He smiled at the pure joy that appeared on her face. He liked knowing he had the power to inspire such a look.

“Well, I’m glad. I know it doesn’t make up for the Halloween’s you missed, but I hope it at least leaves you with a nice memory of this one.” Chloe knew she was getting a bit reflective, but the soft look in his eyes as he turned to her told her she had taken the right track.

“It’s the best Halloween I’ve ever had, thank you Chloe for showing me how much fun life can be, when you loosen up a bit,” he answered softly, surprised the words brought a blush to her cheeks.

“Well, what are friend’s for?” She tried to lighten the mood, knowing her emotions were too close to the surface to be hidden much longer.

“Exactly. I don’t know what I’d do without you.” Lex was surprised to find he truly meant the words. He couldn’t imagine a life without Chloe in it. It was yet another surprising and unsettling revelation. But he wasn’t going to think about it tonight. He was going to remember the fun he’d had, being totally ‘unLuthorish’ with his friend.

“So, I suppose I have to find something to top this for next Friday.” He laughed as she turned and smiled at him, both trying to ignore the awareness sparking between them.

“I don’t have any worries you will, besides, I like surprises.”

They smiled at each other and drove off into the night.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~//~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[petriebird18]

Oh, did someone see them at the fair and are now going to tell Helen?!?! That would be soooo great! Or you could just go to next Friday, that would be great too. I can't wait for the next part! :biggrin:
~Deidre~
:chlexsign3:

[hfce]

I loved this chapter fair and the movie. :lol: More please......




Hope :biggrin:

[sabby]

*sighs* gotta love those chlex fridays, but you aren'T going to make us wait till next friday to update, right? cause that'd be meeeeaaaaan and you are a nice girl, right?

I loved the RHPS thing, I fell off the chair imagining Lex doin the time warp *snickers*

Please post more soon

hugs,
Sabby

[bluemoongirl23]

This was SO good, I can't even take it. The touching, the dialogue, the Rocky Horror Picture Show, X-Files, Alias, the sweetness between the two of them. sigh.

Blue

[Tandy]

Great, great chapter...so funny and cute at the same time! I know I've told you this before, but I'll say it again:I loved how you write Lex.

Tandy :biggrin:

[sydsvaughn]

Ch. 5-Rainy Days and Fridays

Disclaimers, notes and such in Part 1

Author tidbit: A few shoutouts to fellow writers in this one ... and Chloe takes on the personality traits of the author. Hopefully, it works. If not, suspend your disbelief and tell me how you like the next chapter!!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chloe looked out the window, watching as the rain fell in steady sheets, turning the ground a muddy brown. It had been raining on and off for the past two days, leaving everything in a gray and dismal state. It was a perfect fit for her mood this Friday night.

Normally, she would have been with Lex, doing something more fun than sitting watching the rain. But that was not to be tonight as she remembered Lex's unenthusiastic call several hours ago, saying that for once, Helen had a Friday night off and they were going to Metropolis for dinner and a show. She'd tried to smile as she'd heard Lex's apology, feeling slightly better that he was upset at having to miss their Friday night ritual. Although she knew it was wrong to feel good about the fact that he was apologizing for spending time with his fiancée.

She hoped she had hidden her disappointment well, telling him that she understood, especially seeing as he and Helen did not get to spend much time together anymore. Her heart had twisted as she'd said the words, surprised she didn't sound as bitter as she felt. Even Lex's assurances that they would be back on their Friday schedule by next week were not enough to brighten her gloom.

Figuring she'd better get used to life without Lex, she'd called Clark to see if he wanted to do something. A poor substitute for Lex, but at least it would be better than sitting at home. He had invited her to tag along with him and Lana, Pete and his latest obsession for a movie, but somehow, being the fifth wheel only made her feel worse. She'd casually declined, saying she'd use the night instead to get caught up on some reading and writing.

Of course, now that she was alone, her father out with friends for bowling night, she couldn't bring herself to do more than stare out the window and think longingly of Lex. Of how it had felt to hold his hand while walking through the fair last week. Of how much fun he'd seemed to have while dancing and singing along to the "Rocky Horror Picture Show." That was her Lex, the one that only she got to see.

But the fact of the matter was that he was not her Lex. He was Helen's Lex, by his own choice. She knew she had to accept it, and realize that these Friday nights were all she could expect from him. With a sad sigh, she came out of those thoughts, turning her gaze from the window and back to the TV.

Finding nothing good on, she flipped the set off, determined to do something, anything, except sit around and mope about Lex. Rising from the couch, she began to wander the house, noting how quiet it seemed without Lana or her father around. She was truly alone. Which wasn't necessarily a bad thing, come to think of it. Why shouldn't she take advantage of being home alone, and pamper herself for a night? No one else was going to do it for her.

She smiled, feeling a bit better as she checked to make sure the doors were locked and the downstairs lights were out. Secure that they were, she walked into her room and over to her computer.

First things first, she had to get the appropriate reading materials for the night. She smiled as she opened up the computer her father had gotten her for her last birthday. It was her favorite present yet. She clicked onto her favorite website and began to search the archives for the latest "Alias" and "Angel" fanfiction. She smiled in delight as she realized Blue and Fiona had updated two of her favorite stories. She'd been waiting for those chapters! With a happy sigh, she clicked on print and a short time later, had a small stack of reading material ready to go.

Clicking on her email, she was pleased to note that scifichick and Blaire had responded to the latest chapter of her story. Speaking of which, she probably should update and send out the next chapter. She smiled as she quickly pulled it up from the hard drive and after looking it over carefully, sent it out to her list. As the mail icon flashed, she smiled to herself, wondering what her friends would say if they knew she wrote a lot more than just journalistic exposes.

That was a little secret no one knew about her, not even Lex. She had a feeling they wouldn't believe Chloe Sullivan capable of writing erotic fanfiction. (Smut as it was called in basic terms, but she liked the sound of "erotic fanfiction" better.) But hell, if she couldn't have a love life, she might as well live vicariously by giving her favorite characters spectacular ones!

Her work done, she sent off a few emails to friends then signed off, gathering the stack of papers on her printer. Feeling better about the night, she headed into the bathroom and drew herself a bath, sprinkling her favorite bath oils into the water, knowing they were geared to relax her body after a long week. As the tub filled, she lit the candles in the bathroom and dimmed the lights so only candlelight filled the room. She smiled as she rummaged through her drawers, pulling out the green silk teddy Lana had given her for her last birthday. Not that she'd ever worn it for anyone but herself.

But tonight, she was determined to pamper herself, to make herself feel like the most beautiful woman in the world. She could almost imagine she was primping for Lex. The thought brought on a quick wave of depression, but she pushed it aside, forcing herself to remember she wasn't going to think of Lex tonight. This was her night for herself and damned if bald billionaires, annoying doctors or her own insecurities were going to spoil it!

With a sigh, she slipped one of her favorite CD's into the stereo, grabbed the teddy and its matching silk robe along with the stack of fanfiction and headed into the bathroom.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Several hours later an extremely relaxed Chloe was curled up under a light blanket on the sofa, finishing the last chapter of her favorite story. She smiled as she read the final words glad her couple had gotten their happily ever after ending. At least someone had. She knew her story would end up that way too, when she finally got around to finishing it. Even though her life would never end like the stories she wrote.

But despite those sad thoughts, she wasn't feeling too bad. She was relaxed and comfortable, the night air, smelling of rain, blowing softly across her body from the slightly open living room window. The candles gave off a relaxing scent and she was perfectly content to let sleep slowly over take her. She was also in a pleasant state of arousal after having read some rather steamy stories. Not that she had any clue what it really felt like to have a man make love to her, but she could imagine. Needless to say, her imagination was quite vivid. Closing her eyes, she her mind finally wander back to Lex. She wondered if he was enjoying his night with Helen. Ignoring the twinge of pain at that thought, she let her mind fill instead with pictures of her and Lex, acting out some of the scenes she'd just read. She fell asleep with a smile on her face and arousal in her veins.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Lex hoped his smile didn't show the relief he felt as he finally pulled into Helen's driveway. It wasn't that he hadn't enjoyed the play, or spending time with Helen, but still, he suddenly realized he couldn't wait to say good night to her.

It was a disturbing thought that he tried not to think about. Which had been hard since Helen had been talking non-stop the whole ride home. She talked about the play, about work, about the 'obligations' she would have as the newest Luthor. Lex found himself unable to get a word in edgewise, not that he really wanted to.

The one good thing was that with Helen so wrapped up in hearing herself talk, she probably hadn't noticed his mind had not been with her most of the night. It kept wandering to what Chloe was doing on what should have been their Friday "fun" night. A night he was realizing he really, really regretted missing.

Part of him knew those were bad thoughts, especially since he and Helen hadn't spent much time together lately. He should be happy her patient had canceled and they'd gotten to spend an evening out. But the whole time, he couldn't stop thinking that he could have been relaxing with Chloe, having pillow fights, eating popcorn and watching late night TV. He could be more relaxed than he was sitting here with Helen, trying not to let her see how distracted he was.

"Lex, do you want to come in? I mean, we could kick back, relax, you could let me take away some of those stress lines I see haven't gone away all night." Helen's voice startled him back to the present.

"Sorry, just thinking about work, you know how it is." He forced himself to smile at her even as he lied through his teeth.

"I know, you always do." He could not help but notice the resignation in Helen's voice. He wondered why he did not feel more guilty. "Still, you're probably right. You've had a busy week, and I bet I'll have to work a double tomorrow anyhow since I think Jeanie is going to call out sick. So, much as I would like to spend tonight with you, I'd better get to sleep. Although though I know we'd both sleep better together," she whispered as she leaned over to kiss him.

Lex forced himself to return the kiss, closing his eyes and trying to make himself feel the emotions he usually felt when he kissed her. But all he could see were Chloe's eyes, laughing at him as he'd won her a stuffed bear at the fair; all he could feel was the softness of her skin as her fingers had brushed against his lips as she'd fed him funnel cake; all he could dream about was what she would taste like if he captured her lips with his own and kissed her like he had imagined.

He pulled away, stunned to realize he was imagining kissing Chloe while kissing his fiancée. He was getting in way too deep, but terrifyingly enough, he suddenly felt like he wanted to drown.

"Good night Lex, I'll call you tomorrow." He barely heard Helen's words as she slipped out of the car, turning to wave at him before heading inside.

Lex watched her go, his emotions a tangled and confused mess. How could he be thinking about Chloe when he was with Helen? It was not fair to either of them. Cursing himself for his wayward thoughts, he turned the car around and headed home, trying to rationalize as he went.

He felt extremely close to Chloe, closer to her than he was to anyone, including Helen and Clark. She knew him better than he knew himself and he realized that through their Friday nights he was getting to see a side of her she didn't show that often. That closeness was bound to affect him somehow. With Helen gone so much, it was only natural. Besides, Chloe was his friend, and he did care about her. The question was, how much? By the time he had arrived at the castle, he had convinced himself that he was simply tired and stressed and disappointed at missing a Friday night with Chloe. That had to be the reason for his wayward thoughts.

Still, he wondered what she'd found to do tonight. He'd hated canceling on her, knowing she was disappointed, he'd heard it in her voice. But she'd covered it, and he knew she truly understood why he'd done it. He wondered why he was suddenly feeling guilty about it.

He did not question the sudden urge that overtook him but simply turned the car around and headed back the way he'd come. Several minutes later he pulled up in front of the Sullivan house. He noted the place was dark and looked like no one was home. Wondering if she were out with her friends, he forced down a pang of disappointment. Walking quietly to the porch, he stopped short of ringing the doorbell. What if she wasn't home and Gabe answered? How would he explain dropping by to see Chloe well after midnight?

Still unsure what to do, he moved quietly around the porch, hoping to get a glimpse into the living room to see if anyone was there before risking the doorbell. It was probably not the best thing to do, sneaking around her house like a thief. But he had to know if she were here or out, maybe with someone else. He pushed down the bolt of jealousy that thought sent shooting through his system as he approached the living room window.

He felt the breath leave his body as his eyes registered the sight before him.

The room was filled with candlelight, giving it a mysterious and surreal glow, casting strange shadows on the surfaces. The soft light also illuminated Chloe perfectly stretched out on the sofa, sound asleep. She'd obviously had a blanket over her, but it was now kicked to the floor, revealing she wore only a little piece of green silk that barely covered strategic parts. He swallowed hard as his body kicked into overdrive, his mind absorbing the erotic picture she presented. He closed his eyes a moment, realizing he should go.

But he couldn't seem to make himself move. He opened his eyes again, catching his breath as she shifted against the cushions, the motion causing the hem of the teddy to rise almost to the tops of her thighs. He leaned against the window for support, praying for the strength to turn and walk away. But not to his surprise, he was having a hard time finding it.

Damning himself, he let his eyes wander across her body, noting how relaxed she seemed, even in sleep. His gaze followed the rise and fall of her breasts beneath the green silk feeling his body harden. He swallowed as he noted the way the silk dipped slightly between her thighs, his mind conjuring up what the fabric hid. Holding back a moan at the images, he forced his gaze to wander from her body to the papers lying on the floor beneath her like a fan. Papers that were dangerously close to the candles glowing on the floor and table in front of her.

Knowing it was a weak excuse, but clinging to it for posterity's sake, he gently lifted the window, not sure whether to thank or curse her for leaving it open. Being careful to remain quiet, he slid the window open glad it moved easily. Slipping his legs over the sill, he slid into the room, landing with a quiet thud against the soft carpet.

He prayed she would not wake up and scream bloody murder. He prayed even harder that Lana and Gabe were nowhere around. He felt guilty at sneaking into her home, but he rationalized it again as he was preventing the house from burning down. He was simply going to gather those papers up, move them away from the open flame and then blow out the candles before they caught fire. It was purely for safety reasons. He only wished his mind would believe the words.

Holding his breath, he moved to the sofa, his eyes still absorbing the sight of her. As he leaned over to gather up the papers, he caught her scent, drifting up and wrapping itself around him. He closed his eyes, inhaling deeply as he forced his body to relax, realizing how mortified she'd be if she awoke and found him staring at her in this state.

Using iron willpower, he blew out the candles and gathered the papers quickly, making every effort to do it quietly, glad she didn't stir. As he reached for the last paper, lying against her hand on her stomach, he felt her shift, turning her body so her side was now resting against his hand. His mind went into sensory overload as he felt the cool silk of her teddy against his palm, along with the heat from her body underneath. He closed his eyes, forcing back a groan, knowing this was wrong, knowing she'd probably kill him if she awoke.

But he couldn't stop himself from brushing his palm against her side as he closed his fingers around the last piece of paper. He stopped, holding his breath as she sighed softly and shifted again. He quickly drew his hand back, wondering what had come over him. He didn't trust himself to be this close to her any longer. Moving across the room, he stacked the papers on a table, skimming the top sheet as he straightened the pile.

His eyes were caught when the word "ravished" jumped out at him. Intrigued he took a closer look at the printed page, his breath stopping as he realized what he was reading. Taking another look to make sure she was still asleep, he sat down and began to read, surprised to find himself totally immersed in the story. A rather erotic story of Mulder and Scully to be precise. He felt his body temperature rise as he read, wondering at the fact that Chloe had been reading this before she fell asleep. Who would have guessed his little journalist liked a little risqué reading on the side?

As he finished the story, something about its style registered. It was very, very familiar. Flipping quickly back through the pages he found the first one, which had the title of the story and the author's name "Alexsgirl." It also had a familiar email address after it. Chloe's. His brain wasn't quite sure he could process the knowledge he'd just acquired. Chloe had written this story herself. In vivid, erotic detail. He swallowed hard as he wondered if she were writing from experience.

The thought of Chloe making love to another man sent a raging jealousy through his system. Imagining her being touched by someone else, kissed by someone else, brought to ecstasy by someone else. For a horrible moment, he wondered if she and Clark-"

He stopped that thought immediately, holding back a groan and forcing his mind to clear as he unclenched hands he wasn't even aware he had balled into fists. It was no secret Chloe had a life apart from him. What she did with it was her business and hers alone. So why did he suddenly want to make it his? Forcing his body to calm, he carefully stacked the papers again, the heat they had generated still coursing through his body. If she hadn't experienced what she had written she had the most vivid imagination he had ever known.

He suddenly realized he wanted to read more. Making a quick note of her email address he vowed to do some computer surfing of his own. He felt a slight twinge of guilt, knowing she probably would be mortified if she realized he'd read her stories, but she would never know.
The more he thought about it, the more he liked the thought of knowing something it was extremely obvious no one else did about her. And when he thought about it, it seemed only natural that the hard hitting journalist had a sensual side she kept hidden to protect her harsher image.

It was also erotic as hell to know what she fantasized about as well. He forced the arousal down as he turned to look over at Chloe, realizing he had discovered a window into another hidden part of her soul. An erotic part straight out of his X-rated dreams. The thought sent a bolt of arousal through his body.

He paused as he heard her sigh and shift on the sofa. Realizing he needed to go before she woke up and found him invading her privacy, he moved back towards the window. But before he could leave, he had to take one last look at her. Silently he moved to the sofa, once more absorbing her beauty. Without conscious thought, he reached out and brushed a strand of hair from her forehead, smiling as she sighed and shifted. Her skin was so soft to his touch as it seemed to shimmer in the soft moonlight the open window allowed into the room.

Without really thinking about it, he leaned down and brushed a kiss across her cheek, letting his lips linger against her silken skin, feeling his heart nearly beating out of his chest as he registered her scent and the feel of her skin against his. Lost in the feeling he slid his lips gently across her cheek, moving lower and lower until they were grazing the corner of her mouth and he could feel her soft breath against his.

He suddenly realized what he was doing and pulled back like he'd been shot. What had he been about to do? He moved quickly towards the window, slipping over the ledge, wincing as a sensitive and aroused part of his anatomy objected to the quick move. When he was safely outside, he slid the window down, cursing himself and his body for what he'd almost done.

He'd almost kissed Chloe. Worse off, he still wanted to. He literally ached with the need coursing through his body. God, what was happening to him? She would probably never speak to him again if she knew what he'd almost done.

He couldn't even understand it himself. But as he took one last look at her, peacefully sleeping with a smile on her face, he knew his feelings for her were changing. More frightening, he knew he was helpless to do anything to stop them. He needed to be with her, learning things about her, learning what she was teaching him about normal, everyday life. A life that didn't have anything to do with being a Luthor.

He wasn't willing to give that up yet. Especially if he would have to live and breathe that life when he married Helen. He shuddered as he realized that was something he wasn't looking forward to.

With a strangled moan, he slipped into his car and pulled out of the driveway. Chloe could never know he had been there or that he had almost kissed her. She was his best friend and he wasn't about to lose her. He couldn't survive if he didn't have her in his life.

The thoughts pounded through his head as he drove, wondering if these Friday nights would only make things harder in the long run. He'd deal with it if they did. Because he wasn't giving them up. He wasn't giving Chloe up. Refusing to think about what that might mean, he drove off like a bat out of hell.

~~~~~~~~~~///~~~~~~~~~~

[sydsvaughn]

Ch. 6- Singing In The Rain

Notes, disclaimers and such in Part 1

Author shout-out: You wanted it. You got it. May Gene Kelly forgive and understand me. MR as well :)


~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chloe smiled as she heard Lex's car in the driveway. It was almost pathetic how happy the sound made her. She couldn't stop smiling as she opened the front door and watched him climb out of the car and head towards the porch, his face registering surprise and more than a little appreciation of her outfit.

Tonight she was dressed in a short black skirt and a shimmery top that was cut extremely low in the front. Lex felt his mouth go dry as he watched her open the door, unable to take his eyes off the way the material clung to her body, outlining every one of her generous curves. He forced his eyes back into his head as he stepped around her and into the hallway, realizing he'd better get control of himself before trying to speak.

"So I take it my outfit meets with your approval?" Chloe gave him an impish smile as did her own once over, liking what she saw. Lex had on a pair of black pants and his traditional purple shirt, giving him a casual yet sexy look. Perfect for the evening they had planned. Perfect for her in general.

"You could say that." He had to force his heart rate back under control along with the desire to sweep her off her feet and see if that body felt as good pressed against him as he had imagined.

"Well, you told me you were taking me Metropolis to check out the band you want to play at your wedding, so I had to dress for clubbing," she said with a grin brushing against him as she moved to grab her coat.

She was proud she had managed to get the word "wedding" out without stuttering. She knew it was evil, but she could not help but be glad that Helen's father had taken her with him on a trip to Los Angeles. That meant Lex was all hers for the night and she couldn't wait. They had a lot to make up for since they'd missed last Friday night.

Although she had ended up having the most real dream of Lex, ravishing her on the sofa. She could have sworn she'd awoken and smelled his unique scent in the room. Ah, the joys of an overactive imagination!

Lex was still struggling to breathe as the scent of her perfume and the soft touch of her body imprinted themselves on his mind. "Clubbing? I don't know Chloe, you're going to attract a lot of attention in that outfit, most of it male-"

He stopped as she burst into laughter.

"That's the point Lex, to be seen, and hey, if my Prince Charming happens to spot me, well, you can't say I'm not ready for it." She avoided his eyes as she spoke, not wanting him to see that her Prince Charming was right in front of her.

Lex felt jealousy grip him at her words. It surprised him how swiftly it had come over him, simply from hearing Chloe talk about other men. He sighed as he realized where those thoughts were leading, forcing the emotions down as he helped her with her coat. He didn't think he could reply at the moment.

Chloe smiled to herself, noting his reaction. He might never be hers, but she was glad to see he still felt something at thinking of her with other men. Even if it was only as a concerned friend.

"Chloe." She turned in surprise as she felt Lex grab her arm before she slipped into the car.

"What I should have said from the start is that you look lovely." Her heart skipped at the intensity of his gaze and the softness of his voice. It stopped altogether as he finished his thought. "But tonight, the only Prince Charming you'll be dancing with is me."

Lex smiled to himself as he registered the shock that fluttered through Chloe's eyes at his bold statement. The grin only grew as he moved around to the drivers side. He meant what he'd said, and no matter what she thought about attracting other men, it wasn't going to happen. She was with him tonight. He forced himself to ignore the fierce satisfaction the thought sent rushing through his body.

~*~*~*~*~

Thanks to Lex's driving, they pulled up to "Angels Lair" a little more than two hours later. The ride had been wonderful, filled with their usual verbal judo and to her surprise, an impromptu sing along when a classic rock station had played "Don't Fear The Reaper." The image of Lex singing to her was one she would not soon forget.

"I didn't realize this place did so well." Chloe made the comment as she looked at the line of people that stretched halfway down the block. Lex simply smiled as he stopped the car and handed the keys to the waiting valet parking attendant.

"It appeals to everyone. Not to mention the owner is a personal friend and I happen to know he runs a clean business." She raised an eyebrow at Lex's casual comment, trying not to smile as he reached her side and slipped an arm around her waist to lead her to the front of the line.

"Um, Lex, the line ends back there." She knew it was a stupid comment, figuring the fact that he was Lex Luthor would eliminate any line waiting. Not that she was complaining of course.

"We've got connections." Lex smiled as she gave him an amused look as he reached the bouncer at the door.

"Lex, long time no see!" Chloe was not surprised to see Lex shake hands with the burly looking man. It did not surprise her that Lex had obviously been here before.

"Franko, good to see you're still doing honest work." Lex noted the shrewd look the man gave him and more was said without words. With a small nod, the man smiled and opened the door.

"Take care and enjoy your night. Although if Luthor here gets tired of you, I'm off at 2." Chloe blushed even as Lex shot the man a warning look.

"The lady is with me. All night." With that, Lex steered her into the club, the sound of a bluesy beat coming from the front of the room. Chloe shivered at the possession in his voice, but quickly found herself delightedly looking around, absorbing the laid back atmosphere. The entire club was done in dark reds and blacks, giving it a gothic mansion. The only difference was the group playing on a stage at the front. Their music was a bluesy form of techno and the well-dressed crowd seemed to be enjoying it if the packed dance floor was anything to go by.

"Lex, this place isn't bad." She had to lean closer to him to make her voice heard above the music. She couldn't help but notice how he shivered at the feel of her breath against his ear. "I can't see you frequenting it in your wilder days however. It's a little too laid back for the Lex Luthor the tabloids portrayed."

Lex was trying to concentrate on her words, not the feel of her breath against his ear. "I started coming here after my wild days. The owner and I have a deal of sorts and I'm a VIP."

Chloe knew better than to ask what kind of deal Lex meant, sure she probably did not want to know. Besides, she was having more fun doing what she could to make Lex shiver like that again. It wasn't hard, since he had her pulled tightly against him as he steered her through the crowd of bodies packing the room. A blush heated her cheeks as she heard several wolf whistles from men who passed her by.

Lex heard the whistles too and without thinking about it, pulled her closer to him, wrapping his arm tightly around her waist. He wasn't going to analyze his reaction at the moment. He was simply going to protect her from the eyes he could feel staring at the beautiful woman against his side.

Chloe bit her tongue and tried not to smile as she noted Lex's possessive gesture and the way he was glaring at the unsuspecting men who happened to smile her way. This night could be more interesting than she'd thought.

~*~*~*~*~

Ten minutes later they were seated in a little alcove off the main dance floor, watching the crowd move to the sensual beat the group was playing. Chloe was sipping on a Diet Coke, enjoying the chance to people watch and commentate with Lex.

"I really like this band Lex, I think they'd be great at the reception." She was again pleased to note how calm she sounded when talking about the wedding. She noted Lex suddenly looked pained and filed it away for future reference.

"I agree." He wasn't sure what else to say only knowing the last thing he wanted to be doing right now was talking about his wedding. "Dance with me." He knew it was more of a command than a request, but he didn't care. She was driving him crazy sitting there in that sexy outfit. He had to hold her in his arms, no matter how wrong he knew it would be.

Chloe heard the command in his voice and something inside her thrilled to it. Without saying a word, she held out her hand and let him pull her to her feet. Eyes locked with each other, they moved onto the dance floor just as the band launched into a seductive rhythmic melody.

Lex gave into the urge he'd been feeling all night and pulled her into his arms, allowing their bodies to lightly brush as she rested her head on his shoulder. Her scent enveloped him as he closed his eyes and rested his cheek against the crown of her head. She felt perfect in his arms as if she'd always belonged there. He never wanted to let her go.

Chloe sighed as she relaxed against him, knowing only that she felt at home in his arms. His scent wrapped around her, sensitizing every one of her nerves. She could feel his heart beating against his chest where her cheek rested against his shirt. She smiled as she unconsciously snuggled closer, enjoying the way his arms tightened around his waist.

Lex knew he was fast reaching the point of no return. He was also aware of the interested gazes they were getting from those around them. People did know him, and there was a good chance they would realize it wasn't his fiancée he was dancing with.

But tonight, he suddenly found he didn't care. Maybe it was the smoky, seductive atmosphere of the club, maybe it was the seductive rhythm of the song pumping through the speakers, or maybe it was simply the feel of the beautiful woman in his arms. Whatever it was, he wasn't going to fight it any longer.

Chloe gasped as he suddenly pulled her tightly against his body and began to sway seductively against her to the sensual rhythm of the guitar and drums. She lifted her head to meet his gaze, eyes heated as they locked on hers, moving her with him in their small space, every inch of their bodies pressed together.

Lex didn't question what he was doing. All he knew was that she felt wonderful against him and that he had wanted her here all night. Throwing caution to the winds, he let his body and heart take over, seeing the awareness and arousal reflected in her beautiful eyes. He didn't want to think. He just wanted to feel.

Chloe closed her eyes, getting lost in the music and the feel of his arms holding her tightly against him. Their bodies were so close, she couldn't tell where she ended and he began. The feeling was incredible. She sighed as the band segued into a softer song, feeling Lex pull her even tighter against him, pressing her head against his chest. With a contented sigh, she breathed him in and prayed the night would never end.

Lex laid his head against hers and let himself get swept away by the music and the feel of her in his arms. Both felt an acute sense of regret when the song finished and the club burst into applause.

Lex sighed as he eased his hold on her, something inside him rejoicing that she didn't immediately let go, but simply turned so her arm was resting around his waist and his were still around her shoulders. He wasn't going to complain.

Chloe smiled, though her heart felt as if it were beating out of her chest. She was completely and utterly aware of the fact that Lex hadn't released her, and she found herself hoping he never would.

"Lex? Lex Luthor?" Lex stiffened against her at the high voice that was suddenly heard behind them. Chloe felt him pull her a little tighter to his side as he turned to face a short brunette woman.

"Gabriella, what brings you here tonight?" Lex felt his radar go on high alert as the columnist for the "Intruder" looked eagerly between him and Chloe. Damn. He'd gotten so carried away he'd forgotten that the press liked this club too.

"You know me, always looking for a story, so how about giving me one?"

Chloe took an immediate dislike to the woman and not just because she was eyeing Lex like a piece of candy. Unconsciously stepping closer to his side, she forced a smile. "Lex, aren't you going to introduce me to your friend?"

"Chloe Sullivan, this is Gabriella Foster. She works for the "Intruder" as their gossip columnist." Lex's brain was working fast, trying to figure out what to say and how to get out of this situation without either of them becoming front page news. He should have known that Chloe would be faster.

"Gabriella, how nice to meet you. Not a bit fan of your employer though." Chloe knew it was going to take some fast-talking to get out of this situation with Lex's reputation and engagement still intact. She pushed down the little devil on her shoulder that told her to damn the consequences and go for broke.

"Well, the "Intruder" appeals to certain tastes, you just have to cater to them." Chloe did not like the assessing look the woman was giving her and felt her hackles rise. "This could be a good story though, Lex Luthor, engaged billionaire playboy going back to his old ways? A last fling before settling down?"

The only thing that stopped Lex from wringing the woman's throat was the grip Chloe suddenly had on his arm.

"Actually Gabriella, I happen to be in charge of the media coverage for the Luthor wedding." She felt a moment of triumph as she read the shock in the other woman's eyes. Time to go in for the kill. "Now Lex has given me free reign over which media would be allowed inside and I have to admit, the "Intruder" probably would not make it on the list if it was spreading vicious lies about the groom. It's just not good business policy."

Lex had to hand it to Chloe, the woman had learned something about blackmail. He wondered if he should be feeling proud at the thought it had hopefully been learned from him. Then again, the look on Gabriella's face would stick in his memory for years to come. He'd rarely seen her look so conflicted.

"I see your point, but you have to admit, you two were dancing pretty close out there, people are going to wonder." Chloe hid her annoyance, realizing the woman had a point. She'd been stupid to get so wrapped up in Lex that she'd forgotten they were in public. Still, there was hope she could salvage the situation.

"Lex and I are friends. We've always been close." She was taking a gamble with her next words, but hoped she could deliver them without giving away how much it hurt to say them. "But he's in love with his fiancée. Who by the way is perfectly fine with her media coordinator checking out bands with Lex, and to check out bands, one needs to dance to them as anyone will tell you."

She knew it sounded stupid, but something told her the woman listening avidly would not care as long as she got a story. "That's all that you need to know or print. I suggest you think about your options carefully. I can't say that I would miss you at the wedding."

Lex felt extremely proud of the way Chloe did not hesitate to answer, her voice clear as she told off the "Intruder's" most obnoxious reporter. Something inside him twisted however as he heard her say he loved Helen. He was seriously beginning to wonder if the love he felt for Helen was the forever kind. What scared him was that he did not know.

"Well then, I guess my column will just reflect Lex Luthor and his "friend" out shopping around for bands." Chloe breathed a sigh of relief, but braced herself for what she knew was coming. "I expect a front row seat for the wedding however."

Chloe again squeezed Lex's arm to keep him silent. "All the media will be in the same section for security purposes. But if you get there early enough I promise you a front row seat." With that, she grabbed Lex's arm and nearly dragged him from the club. She figured it was best not to mention that the "Daily Planet" would have a better seat, since one of its reporters was a cousin of the media coordinator.

Lex allowed himself to be pulled out of the club by an irate Chloe, trying to hide his amusement at the way she'd dealt with the situation. "You need a job as my publicity agent? The way you worked Gabriella was classic."

Chloe was still steaming over the woman's allegations, her adrenaline running high. "I can't believe the nerve of her!" She wasn't sure what she was feeling other than anger and a sense of helplessness. They'd gotten carried away tonight and it had almost ended in disaster. Enjoying these "fun Fridays" was one thing, but when it put his future marriage in jeopardy, it was something else.

Lex sighed, knowing her well enough to read where her thoughts were. "Chloe." He pulled her to face him, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Yes, we should have been a little more discrete but I don't regret dancing with you. Not for a moment."

Chloe swallowed hard as she read the sincerity in his eyes. She fought back the tears as she realized she felt the same. "Neither do I." The words were barely whispered as their gazes locked. For what could have been moments or hours they stood like that, aware of nothing but the other.

"Mr. Luthor? Your car is here."

The droll voice of the valet attendant brought them back to the present and Lex moved to help Chloe into the passenger seat. Their gazes met one more time before he shut the door and walked around to the other side of the car.

Neither said much as they headed back towards Smallville, the silence strange but not uncomfortable. Chloe was simply trying to sort out the many emotions flooding through her while Lex was contemplating why, even now, he was happier to be with Chloe than he'd ever been with Helen.

Both were startled from their reveries by a loud clap of thunder. Several minutes later, raindrops began falling and a moment later they were caught in the middle of a downpour. Chloe tensed as she felt the car skid a little on the wet road, glad Lex had slowed his breakneck pace and was now carefully making his way through the storm.

"Don't worry Chloe, we'll be fine. I've driven through worse." Lex hoped he sounded confident although he was a little worried. The Porsche was not exactly known to be a bad weather car. Hands clenched tightly on the wheel, he squinted to make out the road, nearly indistinguishable through the rain.

"Lex, maybe we should pull over until it lets up." Chloe hid her amusement as he bristled at her slight knock on his driving. "I don't want you to wreck this beautiful piece of machinery after all."

Lex couldn't help but chuckle at her words, realizing she was giving him an out without making him feel uncomfortable. With a small sigh, he pulled over onto the shoulder, hoping he was far enough off the roadway to avoid being hit by another car. Not that too many people were headed to Smallville at 3am.

Chloe sighed as Lex turned off the engine and the sound of the rain filled the silence around them. The atmosphere inside the car was relaxed, but both were aware of the underlying tension creeping up on them both.

Chloe tried not to imagine how he would react if she simply slid across the seat, leaned over and kissed the lips she'd been dreaming about for months. Wondered if he would push her away, or pull her over the stick shift and ravage her mouth as if he were starving for her taste. She shivered at the imagined sensation of being kissed senseless by Lex.

Lex was watching her face, noting the dreamy look in her eyes as she stared at his lips. He felt his body harden as he imagined what she would do if he reached over and dragged her into his lap, kissing her with all the passion he'd been trying to hold back for far too long. He had a feeling she wouldn't object, if the way she kept stealing glances at his body were anything to go by.

Almost as if drawn by an invisible force, Lex found himself leaning towards Chloe, reading the desire in her eyes as his lips neared. He could see the pulse in her neck speed up and feel her breath wash over his lips as he hovered over them.

Chloe felt her heart stop as Lex's mouth came within inches of hers. Her heart was pounding out of her chest, her body aching to feel his lips on hers. She started to reach for him, needing to pull his lips that last inch to hers, when the jarring sound of a truck horn broke them apart.

Lex pulled back quickly, shocked that he'd almost kissed her. The desire to do so was still with him, now stronger than ever, especially seeing as she had started to reach for him. He needed some air, the tension between them was nearly unbearable and if he didn't find a little space, he would most certainly do something they would both regret.

Chloe felt her heart ache as she realized that the opportunity had passed and Lex must certainly now be regretting what had almost happened. She however could only curse the damn truck driver for ruining what might have been her only chance to show Lex how she felt without words.

"Chloe, I think I need some air." Lex knew he sounded abrupt, but he could not help it. Throwing open his door he stepped out into the rain, feeling it immediately soak through his shirt, plastering the material to his body. He could only hope the cold water would soothe his over-stimulated body.

Chloe forced back the tears that wanted to fall as she watched him. What was strange was that she found herself sympathizing with what he must be going through. He was engaged to another woman and here he was nearly kissing someone else. Dear Lord, what must he think of her?

Needing air herself, she opened her door and stepped out into the rain, her body becoming chilled within minutes as the water hit the skin bared by her halter top. Turning her face up to the rain, she allowed a few tears to escape, knowing the rain would mask them from Lex's sharp eyes.

Lex however was not fooled. He knew Chloe, better than anyone and his heart ached for her as she used the rain to hide her tears. Tears he knew he had caused. He hated himself for it, but was unable to figure out where things went from here. But one thing he did know was that they had to get their relationship back on track. He wasn't sure where it would go now, but he needed his Chloe back.

Suddenly, he knew what to do to lighten the situation. He only hoped no stray cars would be able to see him from the side of the road. Reaching into the backseat, he found the umbrella he'd been searching for and quietly moved around the car until he was standing nearly in front of her. Taking a deep breath, he tapped her on the shoulder.

Chloe felt something inside her twist as she opened her eyes to see Lex standing in front of her, in the pouring rain, with an umbrella.

"I believe I promised to surprise you a few weeks ago, now it seems the perfect time." Lex took a deep breath and opened the umbrella.

Chloe's mouth dropped open. He wasn't going to do what she thought he was. Was he? She sank back against the car as he did.

~~~~~
I'm singing in the rain.
Just singing in the rain.
What a glorious feeling I'm happy again.
~~~~~

Lex felt his worries lift as he saw the expression on Chloe's face as he began to dance around with the umbrella, hoping he looked somewhat Gene Kellyish. Her amazed smile warmed his heart and spurred him on. Completing the first chorus, he twirled to her side and before she could speak, swept her into his arms and began dancing her around the car, the umbrella swinging from his arm.

Chloe couldn't help but laugh as she felt him twist and turn her in a very good impression of Gene Kelly. She shouldn't have been surprised to see this side of Lex, after all, he had warned her. But it still warmed her heart. Lex Luthor was dancing around in the rain for her, to make her smile. She knew it, he knew it, and she'd never been more grateful.

After a few moments of dancing, Lex returned her to the passenger side of the car and did one more flip with his umbrella before taking a bow. Chloe's delighted laughter and impromptu applause did more for his pride than he realized.

"Wow. I didn't know you had it in you. I'm impressed." She smiled as he looked pleased with her compliment. He also looked extremely sexy standing there in the rain, his shirt plastered to his chest, an endearing expression in those beautiful eyes.

"I've impressed you, I can go on living now." Lex felt his heart lighten as he watched her laugh, noting again how beautiful she was with the rain falling around her. Even though her hair was plastered to her head she still looked radiant. Not to mention the way her nipples had hardened in the cool rain and were now standing out against the flimsy top she wore.

Realizing where his eyes were, he suddenly turned his attention to the sky, hoping Chloe hadn't noticed. "I think it's clearing up and as much as I'm enjoying singing and dancing in the rain with you, we probably should be heading back. Your father will kill me if I don't have you in before 5am."

Chloe was trying to catch her breath, having felt the heat of his gaze on her chest. She was very well aware of the image she portrayed with her clothing soaked through to her skin. It gave her a boost of satisfaction to know that Lex had noticed, even if he was determined to ignore it.

"I guess you're right." She sighed as he helped her back into the car. "I wouldn't want my dad to kill you, otherwise who would I have to amuse me on Friday nights?"

"Oh, I can see how much I'm good for. Thanks Chloe, I think you have actually wounded my pride." Lex smiled as they returned to their verbal judo, knowing for the moment, it was safer that way. He just had to push the image of a rain drenched Chloe from his mind.

The rest of the ride home was in a comfortable silence as both forced themselves to keep things light. But each went to bed that night imagining what might have happened if that truck hadn't passed by.

~~~~~~~~~//~~~~~~~~~

[NightGlow]

"He was getting in way too deep, but terrifyingly enough, he suddenly felt like he wanted to drown."
(My quote button isn't working so... yeah...)

So profound! Seriously, I adore this fic. It borders between angsty to utterly (hilariously) ridiculous. Good entertainment all around.

Oh yes, and I want to damn all tabloid reporters and noisy trucks to hell. That is all I have to say... err... write.


Signature removed

[Not An Addict]

Ok, I know I already reviewed this on TBT, but I'd just like to say . . .

*whacks Lex with sledgehammer of DUMP HELEN ALREADY YOU MORON!*

[Sway]

who was it that said Lex was intelligant?? they obviously lied if he can't see that he should have ditched Helen long ago. i'm talking loooooooooooooooong ago.

great chapter, LOVED it.

:blinkkiss: Sway

[sabby]

I told in more detail but i gotta say it again I LOVE THIS FIC!!!

And Lex is a moron for not getting the MOST OBVIOUS WRITERS PSEUDONYM EVER!!!! Alexgirl helloooo!!! that hint came with a sledgehammer!

Gotta hand it to a genious to be an utter DumbF§$% sometimes.

post more, soon

hugs,
Sabby

[Catheryne]

Ooooh I am hooked :) Helen is so dead now ;)

Hope that Lex and Chloe will give in soon. It's totally in character to be all passionate and instinctual..

[Carina]

At first I wondered why Lex didn't think anything of Chloe's author name, but then I realised his mind was probably about to burst with the knowledge that Chloe can write erotica! lol.
Lex singing in the rain was so adorable and hilarious. :biggrin: I love this story, can't wait for the update.
:chlexsign3:

[mina murray]

Word to all the posts above. Why haven´t you updated yet? Why makes us suffer like this? oh, the horror... :ohmy: Seriously, do I have to get on my knees? ´cause I'm totally willing to do it. ANYTHING for an update. Please!! Pleaseeee!!

[bluemoongirl23]

Not one but TWO chapters! This is so damn good! And thank you for the shoutout, it was very sweet. :love: And I love that Chloe writes fic. But, is anyone else disappointed that this story is only rated PG-13? Cause, um, yeah, I think that we really are gonna need some smut. So, even though you're not even done, you do know that you're going to have to write a sequel, right?

I love the way that you are writing their thoughts and that they're both trying to fight it. But, they can't!

Is Helen dead yet?

Blue

[Gemini]

This is great! I love the way you're writing chlex, PLEASE update? I'm voting for a little smut too ;)

[creativegirl]

Awesome fic! Totally love it!

Update? Soon? And Smoochies?

Smoochies are good ;)

Bexter

:chlexsign1:


SIGNATURE REMOVED

[sydsvaughn]

Title: Simple Things (next part, sorry, can't rember which #)

Notes: Okay, I"m posting this from the road as I travel across country. Hopefully it makes sense. Typing while in a car isn't my forte. Anyhow, the good news, I finished the story and yes, I'm caving to demand (oh, the pressure :) and the final chapter will descend into smut. I need to write it after the hell this trip has been. The less good news ... well, you have to suffer through one more chapter of teasing, but with hopefully a good turn at the end. Enjoy! (oh, and hey, in my world, Lex is a romantic at heart, hence his 'pastime' that he shows Chloe!)

~~~~~

"Star Light, Star Bright"


Chloe smiled as she looked around the table at her friends and family gathered for the holiday. Martha and Jonathan Kent were hosting the Thanksgiving meal. She and her father, Lana, Pete and his family were all settled around the long table, happily devouring Clark's mother's home cooked meal.

Jonathan, Gabe, and Pete's father were discussing who should win their football pool, while Clark and Pete argued over which player had the best chance of being named MVP. Martha Kent, Pete's mother and Lana were discussing putting a few new items on the Talon's menu and exchanging cooking secrets. Family. This is what it was all about and she couldn't be happier with hers.

She frowned as she suddenly wondered how Lex's Thanksgiving was going. She knew the holidays hadn't been good for him in the past and he'd told her he would be spending this one at the castle with his father, half-brother, Helen and her father. A feel good, have fun crowd if she ever heard one.

"Chloe, you okay?" She turned at Clark's concerned voice, seeing her friend was now staring at her knowingly.

"I'm fine Clark. Just thinking how happy I am to be here and wishing everyone could have the family and friends we do." She knew he understood by the sympathetic look he sent her way. If anyone understood what she felt for Lex, strangely enough, she knew it was Clark. He'd never said anything about it, but she just knew he knew. And she was grateful he never mentioned it.

Sighing, she turned to answer the question Lana had asked her, trying to get her mind off Lex.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Lex sighed as he listened to his father bicker with Lucas over the latest scandal his younger brother had gotten involved in. Rather rudely to Lex's thought, Helen's father was also involved in the conversation, taking Lionel's side. Helen had been on the phone with a patient for the last ten minutes and from the sound of things, wouldn't be hanging up for a while.

Overall a typical Thanksgiving for the Luthors. He wished more than ever that he were with Chloe, enjoying Martha Kent's no doubt delicious home cooked Thanksgiving meal. Clark had actually invited him but he'd declined, knowing he had to make some semblance of attending his own twisted "family meal."

Still, he could only imagine how much fun Chloe would be having with her friends. He knew she would be in her element, surrounded by family and friends, laughing over good jokes and conversation, far removed from anger, bitterness and hate.

He came back to the present as he heard Helen finally end her conversation. Trying to smile, he turned to her, hoping at least now she'd be able to talk to him, getting his mind off his squabbling family and Chloe.

"Helen, is everything okay? You've barely touched your food." He sighed as she pushed back her chair and gave him a tentative smile.

"No it's not. I have to meet with this patient today in Metropolis," she began, not letting him get in the protest he was trying. "It can't be helped, he needs me right now. Today. Ten minutes ago. It's a holiday, he's depressed and he shouldn't be alone. I know it's the worst timing, but I have to go. You understand, don't you Lex?" She gave him a small, distracted smile as she leaned over and brushed a quick kiss across his cheek.

"But Helen," he tried again, hating how desperate he sounded, "its Thanksgiving! I thought we could finally spend some time together, I've hardly seen you in months." He refused to admit how little he thought of her when he was with Chloe. Still, he felt they owed it to each other to spend some time together. After all, they were supposed to be in love, weren't they?

"I know but this can't be helped. I'll try to make it back by Sunday night and we can do something then, I promise. I'll call you later." She kissed him again quickly before hugging her father and breezing from the room with a quick explanation.

Lex watched her go wondering at the sense of relief that suddenly replaced the frustration in his body. Despite his anger at her abrupt departure, he realized he wasn't sorry to see her go. It cleared the way for tomorrow night. He knew he should have felt more guilt about wanting Helen away so he could do things with Chloe, but he just couldn't summon any up.

"You're looking extremely happy for a man who's fiancée just told him she had to leave town on a holiday to do business." His father's voice brought his attention back to the present. He sighed as he saw the suspicious look Lionel sent his way. Nothing like suspicion to add to the anger and pettiness already at the table.

"I'm just thinking about what we can do when she gets back," he covered quickly, sighing in relief as his explanation seemed to be accepted although Lionel shot him a shrewd look he chose to ignore. Needing to escape he pushed his chair away from the table and made his excuses. He knew his father was watching him carefully as he left but he didn't care.

Helen was gone and he had the perfect excuse to call Chloe. Simply to wish her a Happy Thanksgiving, and pump her for information about what she had planned for them tomorrow night. If he couldn't spend the day with her, or be a part of her obviously much warmer, merrier family celebration, at least he could listen to her talk about it. Maybe that would kill the emptiness he felt inside. Reaching his office, he settled into his chair and dialed the familiar number.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Chloe heard her cell phone ringing through the laughter and jeers over the Trivial Pursuit game they'd started in the living room. Excusing herself she jumped up and grabbed the phone.

"Hello?" A huge smile broke across her face as she heard the voice she'd been hoping to hear all day.

"Chloe? Happy Thanksgiving!"

Lex felt the emptiness suddenly filled.

"Happy Thanksgiving to you too, what are you doing calling me?" She knew her voice sounded curious as she moved into the quiet of the kitchen. "Not that I'm not happy about it, I just figured you'd be with your family and Helen tonight." She winced at the sharp pain that shot through her body as she mentioned his fiancée.

"Trust me, our Thanksgiving was anything but something to give thanks for." He knew his tone was wry, but he figured she would understand. "Besides, Helen had to go to Metropolis to meet a patient that just couldn't wait. My father is still degrading Lucas since he's finished with me. So I figured I'd call you for a little happier news."

Chloe felt her heart ache for him as she heard the disappointment and discouragement in his voice. She had figured it would be a rough holiday for Lex she just hadn't realized how much that would disturb him. She knew he wished his family were more like hers at least in the "warmth" department.

"I'm sorry it was so rough, I almost feel horrible telling you how wonderful mine was," she said with a sigh as he laughed.

"Tell me. I'm desperate for something funny and happy this holiday season," he said, the note of despair in his voice tugging again at her heart.

"I'll do better than that," she said, suddenly realizing that she wanted to do something to make him smile.

"Really? What do you have in mind?" His heart sped up in anticipation.

"How would you feel about seeing a movie tonight? We can catch one on the big screen for a change. It'll get you out of the house and give us another "simple" memory to add to our collection." She held her breath, hoping he'd take her up on her offer.

Lex felt the grin spread across his face as his heart lightened. "It sounds wonderful. Do you want me to pick you up?" He heard her wry laughter over the phone.

"Probably not a good idea. Everyone's here and there would be too many questions." She winced at the thought of Pete seeing Lex pick her up. "How about you meet me at my house in about a half hour? I'll make an excuse and leave."

"You're sure?" He didn't want to drag her away from her family, although he was feeling much better at the thought of seeing her

"I'm sure, just be there in a half hour and don't be late!" He laughed as he promised her he would be on time and then hung up. Jumping off the bed, a spring to his step, he headed for his closet. This Thanksgiving might just turn out better than he'd expected.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Chloe smiled as she breezed back through the living room, walking over to her dad who was involved in the football game with the rest of the men.

"Dad, I'm going to run by the Torch and do a little last minute work, I'll be home later, okay?" She kissed the top of his head as he grunted, more involved in what was going on with the game. Thanking Mrs. Kent with a hug, she waved good-bye to everyone deliberately ignoring the knowing look Clark sent her way.

"Don't work to hard on the paper." She turned at his comment, seeing the smile on his face. "After all it's Thanksgiving and everyone deserves to have some fun." Chloe sent him a wink with her smile, reading the hidden message in his words. He knew, and he was okay with it.

"I will Clark, I promise!" With that she headed out the door and ten minutes later was home, frantically searching for something to wear. She smiled as she heard his car pull up with 30 seconds to spare. Running down the stairs she grabbed her keys and literally flew through the door, barely remembering to lock it behind her.

"That was fast. I love a prompt man." His laughter warmed her heart as she settled herself into the passenger's seat and buckled her seat belt.

Lex smiled at her flushed face and the happy expression in her eyes. "Did you think I'd spend time loitering around the mansion when I could be exploring the "simple things" in life with you?" He laughed at the delighted smile she sent his way.

"I like your thinking, I just wish you could have had dinner with us." She frowned as he choked back laughter.

"Yes, I can see Clark being okay, but Pete, his family and Jonathan Kent would have made it miserable. You know that." He smiled at her rueful sigh.

"Point taken. So enough of this. We've got a movie to see. What's your pleasure?" She missed the heated look he sent her way.

Lex forced himself to concentrate on remembering the movie he wanted to see instead of picturing exactly what "pleasures" Chloe could give him.

"I don't know, what's playing?"

Chloe smiled. "Plenty of stuff. We've got action, science fiction, fantasy, and good old Christmas fare," she said, looking at him curiously as his eyes lit up.

Lex knew it was stupid, but he had a feeling she'd understand. She was probably also the only one who would see it with him. "How do you feel about "Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers?"" He was amused as she cracked up.

"Lex Luthor wants to see "The Two Towers?" Will wonders never cease?" She chortled at Lex's hurt look. "Relax, I'm only kidding and of course I'll see it. I loved the first one and any excuse to see men running around in period costume, with swords and long hair is fine by me!"

They continued to discuss whether the books or movies were better for the series and she even got him to agree to read one of her other favorite series the "Harry Potter" books, although not without a lot of persuading and bribing. Both were smiling as they parked the car and walked arm in arm to the ticket booth of the semi-crowded theater.

Lex reached out to stop Chloe before she could draw out money for the tickets. "No way. I'm getting this one," he said, ignoring her pout.

"But it was my idea, I should pay-" She stopped as he placed a finger across her lips.

"I've got it. Let me, please Chloe?" He whispered the words, trying to ignore how soft her lips felt against his skin.

Chloe could only nod, her heart was pounding too hard at the look in his eyes.

He quietly paid for the tickets, taking her arm again as they headed inside. "So, are you stuffed or do you want snacks?" He laughed at her expression as they passed the candy counter.

Chloe's eyes lit up as she saw the Sour Patch Kids staring back at her from a long canister. "We have to get Sour Patch Kids, you can't see a movie without them," she stated forcefully, dragging him over to the counter.

Lex smiled at her exuberance, amazed that something as little as a type of candy could make her happy. How different she was from Helen. With a sigh, he made a deal with himself. Tonight, he wouldn't think about Helen. He'd let himself enjoy spending time with Chloe and ignore the guilt.

Not that he was really feeling much. After all, Helen thought her work was more important than him, on Thanksgiving. Why shouldn't he have fun without her? Knowing there was a fault in his reasoning somewhere, he pushed it away, smiling as Chloe turned away from the counter with her candy.

"Come on, let's go get good seats before they're taken. I hear this showing is sold out," she said, grabbing his arm and liking it with hers as she pulled him down the hallway.

He smiled and let her lead, realizing that this was exactly where he had wanted to be all day.

~~~~~~~~~~

Several hours later they emerged from the theater laughing and comparing notes on the movie. Lex liked the battle scenes while Chloe preferred any scene with a man with long hair. Lex pretended to take offense because of his lack of hair but she'd only laughed.

"Trust me, I love long hair on men, but bald is attractive too." She grinned as he gave her a slightly wounded look.

"But you prefer long hair." He was teasing her, but he enjoyed seeing her get fired up and fire back at him. She was beautiful when she was angry or simply defending a point. He really didn't want this night to end.

Chloe noted his stare and looked over at him, clearly able to read his thoughts from the expression on his face. Her heart melted at realizing he didn't want the night to end either.

"So where to now?" She gave him a smile, seeing the happiness fill his eyes.

"Anywhere the lady wants," he said as he pulled out of the parking lot.

Chloe's grin broadened. "I don't know, I'm really too stuffed to eat anything more, there's really nothing open, and there's nothing on TV," she mused, wondering where they could go. She didn't care where; she just wanted to be with him.

Lex smiled as something occurred to him. "I know," was all he said, remaining silent as she looked at him for an explanation.

Chloe finally gave up, settling back against the seat, content to trust him. Several minutes later she found herself smiling as they pulled up to a familiar hill that overlooked most of Smallville.

"You trying to tell me something Lex?" She saw his confused look and she had to remember he hadn't grown up here. "This is typically where most of Smallville comes to make out." She laughed at his amused expression.

"I always wondered where this place was." He smiled to himself as Chloe burst into laughter. He knew perfectly well where they were, but she did not need to know that. He was glad she was making light of it. He could not afford to let himself get too serious.

{{But you brought her here. Nice going Luthor}}

He pushed his inner voice down as he jumped from the car and reached into the backseat. "I've got a blanket back here, I figure we can watch the stars, it's a crystal clear night, perfect for it," he said as he grabbed the blanket and her hand, leading her to a secluded spot on the moonlit hill.

Chloe forced her heart to slow as she realized they were utterly alone, in a very romantic place. But they were just friends. He was Helen's. She had to keep reminding herself of that.

Lex smiled as he spread out the blanket, motioning for Chloe to take a seat as he settled down next to her. He wasn't sure what had drawn him here, but he wasn't going to fight it. Stargazing with Chloe seemed to be a wonderful idea.

"It's beautiful," Chloe whispered as she looked up into the brilliantly lit skies.

"November is always a great time to see the stars, everything's so crisp and clear, I spend a lot of nights looking up at them," he said, his eyes searching for the familiar constellations.

Chloe smiled as she noted the earnest expression on his face. She never knew he had a fascination with astronomy. "Lex Luthor stargazing? Who would have known, its so not you Lex," she teased as he shot her an amused look.

"I'm full of surprises Chloe, the trick is finding the right person to uncover them." He hid his smile at the intrigued look on her face. He had never told anyone of his fascination with the stars, although he suspected Clark knew. Then again, the skies were where the meteors had fallen from so it stood to reason their origin would fascinate him too.

Chloe was mulling over the information he'd just given her, storing it away for future possibilities. Until then however, she was going to enjoy the moment. "So what are we looking at Mr. Expert? Explain." She felt her heart flutter at his sensual smile as he motioned for her to look up.

"Well, over there is Orion, you can see his belt," he pointed, watching as she squinted easily making out the familiar cluster of stars.

"That's an easy one Lex, everyone knows Orion. Give me something harder!" She caught her breath as he leaned over and tugged on her arm, bringing her against his side as he pointed to another cluster of stars.

{{Oh Chloe, if you only knew how "hard" it was}}

Cursing his wayward thoughts, he turned his attention back to the skies. "Okay Miss Knowledge, how about that "W" shaped cluster, know what it stands for?" He smiled as she laughed.

"Hello, can you say "Clash of the Titans" Lex?" She grinned at his small smile. "It's Queen Cassiopia, the mother of Andromeda. Not much of a mom to sacrifice her daughter to a sea creature however."

Lex was delighted with her answer. "Harry Hamlin has had better days, although Medusa still has the power to make me cringe."

Chloe smiled as she unconsciously leaned against him as his voice trailed off. The two were silent for a few moments, simply absorbing the still beauty of the night.

"There Chloe! Did you see it?" She turned at Lex's voice, the wonder in it amazing her. "See what Lex?"

Lex smiled and looked at her, wonder in his eyes. "A shooting star." Seeing her disappointment at missing it, he pulled her closer and pointed again to the skies. "Here, keep looking and I bet you'll see another one."

"Okay, but its no fair if you see the next one first," she managed, surprised she had any voice left at all from being so close to him. She could hardly breathe. She felt the last of her breath stolen as his arms wrapped around her, drawing her so her back was resting against his chest, her body settled between his legs.

"I promise, you'll see one," he whispered against her ear, hoping she couldn't feel his heart nearly pounding out of his chest as he felt her so close to him. He didn't know what had prompted him to wrap her in his arms, but he wasn't going to fight it. It felt too good.

Chloe sighed, relaxing back against his chest, feeling his arms tighten around her waist. Suddenly she saw a streak of light move across the sky. "Lex, I see it!"

He smiled at her excitement. "Then make a wish Chloe." He knew what he had wished for and found himself wondering what she would as she closed her eyes tightly.

Wrapped in the warmth of his arms, Chloe wished with all her might for a miracle. When she opened her eyes, the stars above seemed to wink at her. For some reason, she felt better than she had in months.

They continued to sit in silence for a few moments, each simply absorbing the other's nearness and the peacefulness of the night. In that moment, Lex realized that this was the most content he'd felt in years, maybe his entire lifetime. On a moonlit hill, star gazing with Chloe.

"Chloe, thank you," he whispered, feeling her start as she turned her head to meet his gaze.

"For what?" She saw something she couldn't read in his eyes.

"For giving me the best Thanksgiving I've ever had. I finally have something to be truly thankful for," he whispered, looking deeply into her eyes.

She swallowed hard, feeling her breathing stop as she looked at him. "What's that?" She was amazed that he couldn't feel her heart pounding its way out of her chest.

Lex looked at her, seeing so many things reflected in her eyes, emotions and feelings he knew were reflected in his. They scared the hell out of him. But he wouldn't change them for the world.

"You," he whispered, watching as her eyes softened, making her look even more beautiful and mysterious in the moonlight.

He could read the desire in her eyes, the awareness sparking a fire between them. It had always been there; it seemed to intensify daily. He couldn't resist it anymore. With a soft sigh, he leaned down to her lips.

~~~~~~~~~~

Chloe held her breath as she read the desire in Lex's eyes as he looked down at her. Her heart was pounding in her chest and she knew he was going to kiss her. Everything inside her screamed for it to happen.

She needed to feel his lips pressed against hers almost more than she needed to breathe. She needed to feel the heat and passion she could see reflected in his eyes as he looked down at her. Needed to feel his body pressed against hers, holding her like he'd never let go as he showed her what true desire really was.

She knew it would be an experience unlike any she'd ever known. More importantly, it would be the same for Lex. She could read it in his eyes and hear it in his voice as he thanked her for giving him something to be thankful for.

Her heart rejoiced at the words, knowing he truly meant them, knowing he meant a lot more than he was saying. Knowing that he did feel the overwhelming desire and passion that simmered between them. Knew he wanted to give in to it as much as she did in this moment, alone, together, under the moonlight on the soft sand of the beach.

But she knew she couldn't let him or herself give in. No matter how much they might want this kiss, it wasn't right. He was engaged to Helen. And until he told her otherwise, there could be nothing between them. No matter how much she might want it. No matter how much Lex might want it.

She watched as his head lowered, feeling a mix of desire and despair sweep over her as she battled her emotions, wanting nothing more than to ignore caution and give in to the emotions swamping her body. But she couldn't.

"Lex, it was sweet of you to say that, thank you."

Her words dragged him out of his vision of kissing Chloe his heart aching as he realized it had only been his imagination, even though their faces were extremely close together. If she hadn't spoken, he'd have been kissing her right now.

But it had seemed so real!

He could swear he'd felt the warmth of her lips, the passion in her kiss as she'd responded to him. It had him aching and hard, faster than he'd ever been in his life. He almost howled when he realized it hadn't happened, it was all in his mind.

But God how he wanted it! How he wanted to pull her to him and kiss her desperately, pouring all his confused, mixed up emotions into the kiss, showing her exactly what true passion was! How he wanted to show her that all those erotic stories that "alexsgirl" wrote for her TV characters were nothing compared to the reality of Alexander Luthor.

His mind stuttered to a complete halt as it suddenly truly registered her alias. "Alex's Girl." To his knowledge, there was only one "Alex" of any kind in her life. That knowledge suddenly made all the difference. He stared into her huge eyes, clearly able to read the desire and want in them, feeling a slight satisfaction to know she felt the same. She wanted him to kiss her. As much he wanted to kiss her. And he would have if she hadn't reminded him with her gentle words of where and who they were. He was engaged to Helen.

Despite the fact that he had fallen in love with his best friend.

He was in love with Chloe.

Part of his heart wanted to shout the news to the world, sealing his newfound knowledge with a kiss, taking their simmering passion to heights he'd never dreamed of before and he knew she'd never known.

A larger part of him realized it wouldn't be fair to do that to her, or to him, or to Helen. He was still engaged to her and he loved her in his own way. Just not with the intensity and passion he felt for the woman in his arms, staring at him with an aching pain and tortured desire in her eyes as she thanked him for thanking her.

He loved Helen. But he was in love with Chloe. So what the hell did he do now?

He pulled back, noting the dismay and relief mixed in Chloe's eyes as she turned in his arms, leaning back against his chest, forcing his arms to return to their position around her waist.

"You're welcome," he finally whispered into her hair, feeling her snuggle back against him, smiling at the fact that despite the desire arcing between them, she obviously felt comfortable being so close to him.

Chloe sighed, forcing her heart to stop aching as she closed her eyes, leaning her head against Lex's chest. She'd had to do it. She couldn't have let him kiss her. The knowledge that he wanted it, wanted her, was enough to send her pulse racing and her hopes skyward, but she knew, deep inside, that it would take a lot more than a moonlit "almost kiss" for Lex to truly realize he wanted her instead of Helen.

She knew he did. He just wasn't aware of it yet. She didn't know if he would ever be. The thought saddened her as she felt his arms tighten around her waist, glad that despite the sexual tension arcing between them, he still felt comfortable holding her.

Still, her mind was now working overtime, tonight's events starting a different train of thought in her brain. Lex obviously had feelings for her, the trick was to get him to recognize them and get rid of Helen, thus freeing them both to act on their feelings. She'd waited long enough for him to wise up, and since it looked like it might take longer, it was time for drastic measures.

She knew it was sudden, knew it was probably ill thought out as well. But now that the idea was in her head, she couldn't stop thinking about it. Maybe it was the night, maybe it was simply the weariness of fighting the inevitable. But one thing was for sure, things had to change and she was beginning to get an idea about how to make them.

Lex was quite, watching the myriad of emotions filter across Chloe's face. She looked to be intently thinking of something and he could only hope it was about him. But if it wasn't, it would be soon. This had gone on long enough. It was time to take control of his life and for the first time, do exactly what Lex Luthor wanted, not everyone else.

Determination flowing through his veins, he smiled as he spoke. "It's getting late and I suppose I'd better get you home before Gabe comes after me with a shotgun." He found himself reluctant to let her go, especially after realizing his feelings, but knew it was for the best. For the moment.

Chloe sighed, knowing he was right, but loath to leave his arms. She forced herself to smile as she felt him rise, taking the outstretched hand he offered to help her to her feet. Neither commented on the bolt of electricity that shot through their systems at the contact. Neither let go of the other's hand as they walked slowly towards the car.

Lex settled Chloe into the passenger's seat with a smile and a soft brush of his fingers across her face. Chloe forced herself to remember to breathe as she tried to calm her racing heart. Despite the want shooting through her body, despite the overpowering love she felt for him, despite the despair she felt at knowing that love would probably come to nothing, she couldn't regret this night. She'd remember it always.

"Lex, thank you for a wonderful night, and a Thanksgiving I'll never forget," she whispered, seeing his eyes soften as he looked over at her.

"The feeling's mutual Chloe," he said with a strange intensity that sent a thrill through her body. She wondered at the determined look in his eyes, but shoved her apprehension down, concentrating instead on finding the easy rapport they always seemed to share.

"So, I know it's Thursday night, but are we still on for Friday?" She got a warm smile in return.

"You better believe it, and since it was your idea to see a movie, it's my turn to pick the Friday night entertainment, okay?" He smiled at her laughter.

"No way. You got to pick last Friday, tomorrow night is mine buster!" she teased with a fake pout, hearing his laughter fill the car.

"You're sure? 'Cause I don't want you to say I'm not being fair and all, you might come after me with a pillow or something," he teased right back as she pretended to look annoyed.

"I'll have you know that I've already got plans for you tomorrow. I only hope you're ready to see a different side of me than you have before," she said mysteriously, smiling to herself as she read the quick flash of desire in his eyes at her words.

Lex felt his body harden at her intriguing words. A shudder went through his body as he wondered if part of that side might include acting out what she'd written the other night. Not to mention the stories he'd been reading in his spare time over the past week. He had to fight back a groan as he pictured the two of them doing some of the things she'd written. Because he had to hope "alexsgirl" was picturing acting those fantasies out with her real life Alexander. It was enough to bring his already tortured body to an unbelievable level of arousal.

He forced his thoughts back into safer territory, amazed that they were able to tease and joke with each other, despite the sparks jumping between them. He figured he would be grateful for small miracles. Besides, he had a lot of things to do before tomorrow night.

Chloe smiled as she watched him contemplate her words, knowing that it was a rare thing to be able to tease him so freely and carelessly after nearly kissing him only a half an hour earlier. She wasn't going to take that aspect of this relationship for granted.

Besides, she had a Friday night to plan. A Friday night geared towards a new goal. Hopefully, Lex would be ready. Hopefully she would be too. With a sensual smile at Lex, she settled back into her seat and set about planning a night that if all went right, neither of them would ever forget.

~~~~~~~//////~~~~~~~~~~

There, don't kill me over the sexual tension, but I promise, the next chapter (and hopefully final one if it fits) will be up within the next two days and yes, the tension will get a spectacular release, changing this story to a definate higher rating!!


Sara (who's struggling to make it across country in her car from hell :)

[Sway]

wow. that was worth the wait!! :biggrin: AWESOME!! i am in love with this story... :wub:

oh, and good luck with the road trip!!

:blinkkiss: Sway

[hfce]

I already gave you a review from on another list. I want more please.....


Hope :biggrin:

[Sunflow]

I love your story! :love: It's a shame that the end is so near... but on the other hand I'm so happy that they're finally getting together ^_^

A sequel being planned, perhaps?


Sunflow

[bluemoongirl23]

Originally posted by sydsvaughn@Apr 17 2003, 07:42 AM

He loved Helen. But he was in love with Chloe. So what the hell did he do now?



This Lex, do this to Helen:


:hammer:


That chapter was AWESOME! And, I've ever so glad you caved and that we gets us some smut. hee.

Blue

[mina murray]

OMG! That was great! Lex finally realized what we all knew, and I like how you made Chloe so confident that Lex feels something for her. She´s totally worthy of him.

ps: did you see that emoticon from the previous post? It´s awesome.

[sydsvaughn]

Title: Simple Things (The End!)
Rating: Up to **R**

Notes, Disclaimers and such in Part 1

The smut arrives ... enjoy!


At Last

~*~*~*~*~*~*

Lex sighed as he slipped into his room and rubbed his temples as he sank down onto his bed, trying to comprehend everything he'd done in the last 24 hours. He'd essentially uprooted his entire life on an unconfirmed belief that he could have a better one. He sighed again as he flashed back to the events of the past day.

Flashback - (Earlier That Morning)

After dropping Chloe at home, he returned to the mansion, hoping to sleep. Instead, he found himself staring out his bedroom window wondering what he was going to do now that he had admitted he was in love with Chloe. After hours of thought and plenty of soul searching, he finally came to a decision in the early hours of the morning. Not willing to wait, he slipped out of the house and to the airport, putting the Luthor jet on stand-by to fly to Metropolis.

Within an hour, he was stepping out of a taxi in front of Helen's Metropolis apartment. The apartment wasn't exactly the penthouse but it served her purposes. She and Lex had argued over her getting her own place when she'd realized she was spending more time in Metropolis than Smallville. She'd overruled his insistence that she move into the penthouse and now he found himself extremely glad of that decision. It would make this a lot easier.

Noting the early hour, he figured Helen would still be asleep and not wanting to wake her just yet, he pulled out his spare key and entered. He immediately felt some inner sense telling him something was different. Looking carefully around he noticed the subtle changes to the décor. Two new paintings, not Helen's usual style, graced the wall over the sofa. Taking a closer look, he realized the few pictures of the two of them that had been sitting in her living room were nowhere to be found. An explanation suddenly occurred to him and with a slightly hopeful expression, he slipped over to her bedroom door, taking a deep breath, almost positive of what he would find when he opened it.

He was not disappointed. He felt a quick jolt of surprise at seeing the two bodies twisted together in Helen's bed, but that was all. He wondered if he should be feeling rage or jealousy. But those were the last emotions he found hitting him. In fact, the sense of relief that swept over his system made him want to laugh. Maybe it wasn't going to be as hard as he had thought to do this. Taking a deep breath, he walked quietly over to the bed, reaching down to shake Helen's shoulder gently.

"Helen," he whispered quietly, hearing her sigh and roll over, her eyes still closed. "Helen, wake up," he tried again, finally seeing her eyes flutter open, registering the panic that suddenly appeared in them as she realized who he was and where she was.

"Lex!" She looked frantically between the man snuggled next to her and at him. "Lex please, I didn't mean for you to find out this way, this isn't what it looks like-"

He cut her off by placing his fingers over her lips. Looking over at the other man who had come awake at the noise, seeing the puzzlement mixed with resignation in the unfamiliar eyes, he had also read the love the man had for Helen. He smiled at the man, seeing his shoulders slightly relax as he reached for the jeans lying on the floor next to the bed.

"Helen, I'm just going to make myself scarce for a few moments, I think you two need to finally talk," the man said as he slipped from the bed and into the bathroom. Lex could not miss the loving looks the two exchanged.

"Lex, I know you must be furious-"

Lex cut her off again, this time with a wry smile. "Helen, you can't know what I'm feeling. It's not anger, it's not betrayal, it's relief," he stated honestly, seeing the confusion in her eyes.

"What are you saying?" Something in her eyes however told him she knew what was coming.

"Helen, I came here to tell you I can't marry you," he finished, seeing the panic re-surface in her eyes.

"But Lex, the merger, our families-" She trailed off as he placed a finger over her lips again.

"Helen, do you love him?" He nodded to the bathroom. She remained silent for a moment, before raising her eyes to his and nodding.

"Very much. More than I ever thought it was possible to love someone. Not that I don't love you, but it's-"

"Different," he finished quietly, seeing the understanding in her eyes. "I love you Helen, but I'm not in love with you, I think I've been realizing that for a while now," he said softly as she nodded.

"I didn't know how to tell you that these business trips were becoming so much more. It just sort of happened. Chris and I didn't see it coming, and it killed me to lie to you, but I just couldn't stop it, I love him so much, I'm sorry," she whispered, a tear slipping down her cheek.

Lex sighed. "Don't be sorry, be happy. That's really all I want is for us both." As he spoke the words, he knew he meant them. "If Chris makes you happy, that's wonderful. I know you're going to have a wonderful life, and don't worry about our families." He laughed at her snort. "If they really want that merger, they can do it the traditional way, through business channels," he finished as she smiled wryly at him.

"So, does Chloe make you as happy as Chris does me?" Helen's soft question startled him into silence.

"You know?" He watched as she smiled.

"It was pretty obvious that you had more fun with Chloe than you did with me." She shrugged wryly as he looked apologetic. "Don't apologize, we can't help what we feel. Hopefully now though, we'll feel it with the right people."

He sighed, wishing it were as simple as that, and telling her so. "You'll be fine. Me, well, it's not going to be easy, a lot of people will be against us."

He stopped as Helen laughed. "The great Lex Luthor is worried about what people will think? Much less what they'd do? That's not the Lex I know speaking."

He was amused and heartened by her words. She had a point. "I do love her Helen and sooner or later, people will have to accept it." He wished he felt as determined as he sounded.

"I know they will. Just be happy, okay?" She hugged him then, one last time.

"You too Helen. Invite me to the wedding," he whispered, feeling a bittersweet sense of sadness and acceptance as he let go of his past. He smiled as Chris emerged from the bathroom.

"Everything all right out here?" he asked, locking eyes with Lex.

"Take care of her. She's a special woman." Lex knew he'd said all that needed to be said in that look. With a wry smile, he turned and left, feeling freer than he had in years. The first obstacle was over. Now if he could just overcome the second.

End Flashback

Lex sighed, coming back to the present as he blocked out the memory of the yelling ringing in his ears as his father had blasted the end of the engagement. Wait until he found out who had replaced Helen in his affections. Something told him that Lionel Luthor just might be rendered speechless. But he wasn't going to think about his father or his reaction right now. He felt a sense of anticipation filling his system as he looked at the clock and noted it was past 10pm.

He smiled as he jumped up from the bed and headed for the shower, his body humming at the thought of seeing Chloe, knowing he was now a free man. He was now able to kiss her if he wanted to. He could feel no guilt about holding her in his arms and showing her the passion he felt for her, and unlock the passion he knew she felt for him.

It was going to have to be a very cold shower.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Chloe was humming to herself as she finished setting up the living room. She could not believe how perfectly things had worked out. Her father was taking a long planned vacation, courtesy of the extra hours he'd put in for Lex at the plant. Lana was spending the night with Clark under sworn oath not to return home until well into tomorrow morning.

She and Lex would be totally alone. And after their "almost kiss" last night, she was going to put that knowledge to good use. He might be engaged to Helen but she was positive he had feelings for her. The trick was finding a subtle way to get them out of him. Which was why she'd carefully crafted her plan for tonight. Making sure the living room was perfect, she slipped into her bedroom and into the shower determined to be ready and waiting when he arrived.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Lex took a deep breath as he knocked on Chloe's front door, wondering if the bouquet of flowers he'd brought was a bit too obvious. But he'd wanted to do this right, and if he was going to start something with Chloe he wanted to make sure he got it right. He smiled as he heard the lock turning. The smile was immediately replaced with a stunned look at the vision that greeted him.

Her hair was loose and free, brushing her shoulders in the exact style he liked. She wore no makeup, but her skin was glowing, the soft light from the darkened living room making her look like a moonlit angel. He swallowed hard as his gaze slid down her body, noting the silky robe she wore ended mid thigh revealing a long expanse of bare leg. The robe was tied loosely in the front, providing him with a tantalizing glimpse of skin as she reached for the flowers with a delighted look on her face.

"Lex! For me? They're beautiful!" She smiled into his eyes, her heart racing as she read the raw desire in his gaze as he looked her up and down.

He couldn't speak. The blood was pounding through his system, nearly threatening to incinerate him as he looked at her. He'd never been so aroused in his life. For the first time in his life, he wondered if spontaneous human combustion was a scientific fact. If not, he might just be proving that theory tonight. He knew he must seem a fool as he stood staring at her, but she didn't seem to mind. In fact, if he was any judge of character, she seemed to glow even more.

"Well, come in!" She pushed her emotions down, forcing herself to stick to the plan. The look in his eyes nearly made her lose all reason and throw herself into his arms, but she couldn't do that.

Not yet.

"Chloe, I'm early, I can come back-" He knew he sounded like a stuttering fool, but he couldn't manage anything else as he watched her eyes twinkle at him.

"No, it's okay Lex. I was running behind and just had time to dry my hair but not dress. Come on in and make yourself at home." She was proud her voice sounded so calm and friendly when her insides were ready to melt at the look in his eyes.

Lex swallowed hard trying not to notice how the robe clung to her figure. "Don't change on my account." He was surprised to hear the words spoken out loud instead of in his mind. Still, he didn't regret them as he saw the heated look she sent his way.

"Don't tempt me Lex." Chloe was delighted at his response and the way his eyes sparked at her reply. This was off to a wonderful start. "Here, put these in water, then sit down and make yourself comfortable, I'll be back in a moment," she called as she slipped by him, making sure to brush against his side as she moved, thrilling to the indrawn breath she heard him take.

Lex swallowed hard, trying to make his voice sound normal. "So what movie are we watching tonight?" He wondered if he could concentrate on a movie now that he had the vision of Chloe in nothing more than a robe.

Chloe smiled as she slipped into her room. "It's a surprise," she said as she quickly slipped over to the mirror to make sure she looked presentable.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lex sat down on the sofa, willing his heartbeat under control. He meant to take this slow, to make sure she felt the same about him as he did her. It was a good plan, one he'd been certain of until he'd walked in the door and seen her wearing almost nothing, looking at him with a heat in her eyes that nearly incinerated him.

Things were definitely heating up and he wasn't going to complain. As he settled back onto the couch and began flipping channels, he suddenly took note of the atmosphere. Instead of the overhead lights, candles cast a soft glow around the room. He noted there was no popcorn bowl on the table, nor any food in sight. Something was definitely up.

"Okay, I'm back. Didn't feel like changing once I started looking at things, so since we're such good friends, I figured you wouldn't mind if I didn't dress for the occasion." He was almost afraid to look at her as she entered the room. But he was glad he did when he noted she was still wearing the silky robe, a seductive smile on her face as she looked at him stretched out on the sofa.

He smiled to himself as he began to put the pieces together. "Doesn't bother me one bit. I told you not to change on my account," he said with a smile as she slipped over to the VCR and pushed the movie into the machine.

"So now are you going to tell me what we're watching?" He felt his heartbeat accelerate as she settled herself down next to him, pressing against his side.

"Well, it's a little different from our normal fare, but it's one of my favorite movies." She smiled and winked at him. "Just don't tell my dad or Clark," she whispered with a laugh as the movie began.

Lex hoped he could contain himself. "So does this mean I'm going to get to see the side of Chloe Sullivan that you teased me with last night?" His breathing stopped as she smiled slyly.

"Probably. Though if you EVER tell anyone I watch, let alone own this movie I'll have to kill you, okay?" She looked straight into his eyes, thrilling at the growing desire in them.

"I'm intrigued now, what is it?" He forced his eyes away from her smile and onto the screen. He frowned as he registered there was a funeral going on. "What is this?"

She shushed him with a wave of her hand. "Just watch, it'll explain itself in a moment," she said, turning her attention to the film, preparing for what she knew was coming.

"Red Shoe Diaries?" Lex knew his voice reflected shock as she turned to smile at him a few moments later.

"You're familiar with them?" she asked eagerly.

Lex swallowed hard as he dragged up from the depths of his memory what one of his friends had once told him about the show. How it was basically soft-core porn, narrated by David Duchovny.

"You bought this for Mulder didn't you?" He watched as her eyes lit up.

"Of course, and I have to admit, I love it. It's just so romantic, so sexy and sensual," she said turning back to the TV, refusing to smile at the stunned expression on Lex's face.

Lex dragged his gaze back to the TV wondering what he was in for. Wondering if he could make it through this movie without acting on the desire he could feel building to a conflagration between them.

With a strained smile, he settled back to watch the movie unfold.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

There was dead silence between them as they watched Jake and Alex make desperate love against a tree, in a public park.

Chloe's heart was nearly pounding out of her chest, her body on fire as she pictured herself and Lex in the same situation. She tried not to sigh in relief as she felt his arm slip around her shoulders, providing her with some much needed contact as she snuggled against his side and told her body to relax.

Lex was wondering only that he hadn't lost it yet. The sensual love scene playing out on screen sent his body temperature soaring and not just because of the soft, warm body pressed against his side. Without even realizing it, he slipped his arm around her shoulders, instinctively drawing her closer to him, telling his heart to calm as he felt her burrow against his side, her head coming to rest lightly on his shoulder.

This was torture. Pure, sensual torture.

He could feel the silk of her robe against his hand as he unconsciously stroked her shoulder and arm, his eyes glued to the scene on the TV in front of him, his mind registering the wonderful feeling of her body next to him.

He felt his heart literally begin pounding three times its normal speed as her arm settled lightly across his waist, the move pressing her even closer to him. He closed his eyes and leaned his head down to rest against the top of her hers, breathing in the scent of her shampoo as he continued to stroke her shoulders, forcing his body to stay in control.

Chloe sighed quietly as she felt his head come to rest on top of hers, wrapping her arm around his waist, noting he wasn't protesting. She supposed part of her should feel guilty for acting like this with him, especially since he was an engaged man, but another part rationalized that if he really planned on being with Helen, he wouldn't be letting things go this far.

She wondered if she could stop herself before they did. She could feel Lex's heart pounding against her chest and the desire flowing off of him as he struggled with his feelings. At least she now truly knew there were feelings there.

It was a start. But it would take a little more.

She felt her breathing go shallow as the next sensual scene began, watching as Alex and her new man had rather violent sex in his seedy apartment. She could feel Lex's breathing grow shallow as his strokes on her arm became longer and more sensual. His breath ruffled her hair as his free arm covered the one she'd thrown across his waist, stroking the skin softly, sensually.

She only wondered that she was still breathing.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Lex was watching the scene in front of him, but not really seeing it. He was picturing himself and Chloe as the actors. His body was hard and aching as he felt Chloe's breath catch and her arm tighten across his waist as she watched, realizing that if her hand slipped a little lower, she'd know exactly how he was feeling.

Part of him wanted her to. He knew she'd written much more daring scenes in her stories, he'd read them. Now he wondered if she would have the guts to act them out. Because he was more than sure that the theme of this entire night was seduction. And he was a very willing player.

"Lex?"

Her voice startled him as she lifted her head to look at him, her desire filled gaze sending a bolt of electricity through his system. He was amazed it had taken him this long to realize the effect his so-called friend had on his system.

"What Chloe?" he whispered, unaware that his free arm had now wrapped around her waist, pulling her tightly against him as they talked.

"Well, this might be a rather embarrassing question," she began, truly wondering about the answer, but a bit nervous at asking anyhow. "But, um, do guys really like wild, animalistic sex like that?"

Lex simply stared at her in shock, unsure of how to answer that question. He could tell by her expression that she was truly curious, and it hit him in that moment, once again, how innocent she truly was. She might write stories that were filled with passion and passionate acts, but he knew now that she'd never experienced them. He grew even harder at the thought that he would be the first to teach her.

"Well, I guess it depends-" he stopped as he tried to figure out the right words to say.

"It's okay Lex, you can tell me. After all, we're friends right? And aren't we supposed to tell each other everything? I won't be offended, or shocked, I promise," she cajoled, loving the look of frustrated desire she could read in his eyes.

This was going better than she'd thought and maybe she'd get a real answer to a question she'd been wondering about for a while.

"Well, if you really want to know, I guess, yes, it's a turn on in some ways." He damned the torpedoes as he allowed his eyes to lose focus while he explained. "There's something about being wild, totally losing control, wanting someone so much you can't control it or having them want you the same way. There's power in that feeling and passion. It's a liberating feeling, craving someone so much you almost become an animal," he finished, lost in the picture his mind suddenly created of the two of them engaged in wild, animalistic acts.

"So what would it take to make you lose control Lex Luthor?"

He was jolted back to the present as her soft words registered, a look of pure shock on his face.

"Chloe? What are you asking?" He swallowed hard at the desire in her eyes as she answered.

"I mean, what would it take to make you lose control? To make you want someone so desperately that you couldn't control yourself? To go wild with someone, to want someone that badly? What would it take?" She ended on a whisper as her hand unconsciously began stroking his chest.

Lex swallowed hard as her words registered. How was he supposed to answer that? He knew how he wanted to, but he wondered if she could handle the answer. He wondered if he could. "Are you sure you can handle my answer?" He kept his voice serious wanting her to know exactly what she was in for if they continued this.

The warning was inherent in his eyes, and Chloe couldn't mistake it. He was telling her that if this discussion continued, he had a pretty good idea where it would end. So did she. A delicious shiver of anticipation ran down her spine at the thought.

After all, he wasn't protesting. Not to mention something told her he wouldn't be warning her if he were truly planning on marrying Helen. Something had changed and it was allowing him to talk to her like this. She trusted him enough to know that if they were truly about to do something that would break his commitment to Helen, there must be no commitment to break.

It was a liberating, powerful feeling. She couldn't wait to see what happened next. "What would make you lose control," she whispered again, locking her eyes on his.

Lex sighed, realizing he was going down for the count. He couldn't resist her, or his feelings for her, any longer. He smiled devilishly as he pulled her closer so his breath brushed against her ear. "You want to know what would make me loose control?"

Lex's deep voice sent a shiver down Chloe's spine as she snuggled closer to him. The heated desire in his eyes already had her heart pounding and she only hoped she could handle the heat his words were generating between them.

Lex smiled as he looked into her glowing eyes, knowing that she knew exactly where she wanted this conversation to go and more than willing to oblige. He told his overheated body to relax, knowing he needed some form of control to get through what he was about to say.

"It's the little things really," he began, looking deep into her eyes as he concentrated on putting his feelings into words. "The way she brushes her hair back from her face, her fingers gliding across her skin the exact way mine want to. A look from her eyes, heated with desire, showing me she's just as desperate for me as I am for her. Or the way her smile can send my body temperature soaring and my mind down paths it probably shouldn't be going down. But she turns me on like no one ever has," he finished in a low voice, feeling her shiver against him, delighting in the way her eyes softened with desire as they gazed into his.

"So what would she have to do to make you act on these emotions, to make you lose control?" Chloe could see the desire rising in his eyes as his arm tightened around her waist.

"All she really has to do is touch me," he whispered, stroking his hand down her arm as she shivered. He fought back a moan as he felt her small hands slide up his chest and slowly begin stroking his shoulders.

"Like this?" She moved her hands lightly across his shoulders and down his arms. She couldn't believe how good he felt against her hands. The hard muscles in his shoulders and arms felt deliciously warm against her eager palms, and the look in his eyes took her breath away.

"Exactly like that," he whispered, reaching to stroke a finger down her cheek as he continued.

"After that first touch, I know I'm lost. Nothing has ever felt so right in my life, no one has ever stirred such emotion in me. No one has ever done to me what she does with a simple touch."

He stopped, closing his eyes as her hands slid over his chest and brushed across his stomach. The feeling of her soft hands, even through the material of his shirt, set every sense in his body on red alert.

"What does she do after she touches you?" Chloe's mouth was dry as she took things a step further, sliding her hands underneath his shirt, drawing in a sharp breath as her fingers met warm, smooth skin. His hiss of pleasure was a sure indication he was enjoying this as much as she was.

Lex was trying to stop himself from pushing her back into the couch and showing her exactly what he wanted her to do to him. And what he wanted to do to her. He fought the desire rising inside him, knowing the longer he stretched this seduction out, the sweeter the payoff would be.

He only hoped his body could hold out. He wasn't too sure at the moment, considering Chloe's soft hands were kneading and stroking his chest, a Cheshire cat smile on her face as she encouraged him with her eyes to go on. Well, if he'd had any doubts about where she wanted this night to go, they were gone now. She'd made her desires crystal clear. He took a deep breath, realizing she was still waiting for an answer to her question.

"What does she do to me?" He growled the words as he suddenly pulled her onto his lap and wrapped his arms around her waist, smiling at the soft moan she couldn't hide as she made contact with a very aroused part of his body.

This was going to be fun.

"She lets me touch her," he whispered, running his hands up and down her arms, watching as her eyes fell shut and her body leaned against him. "She whispers to me how much she likes the feel of my hands on her body, how much she adores the feel of my skin against hers," he trailed off, slipping his hands inside her robe, moaning softly as he encountered nothing but her heated, bare skin.

"I like it very much Lex," Chloe whispered, her mind lost in a haze of desire as his warm palms began to stroke her stomach and sides, the feel of his hands on her soft skin nearly driving her crazy with need and a want she couldn't begin to describe.

Lex groaned at her words, lost in the feelings swamping him, simply from touching her bare skin. He'd never been so aroused in his life. And he hadn't even gotten to the good part yet. "Tell me how much you like it," he said in a husky voice, seeing her eyes fly open as he met her gaze head on as she registered his challenge.

Chloe knew they were fast approaching the point of no return, but she didn't care. Lex was obviously ready to go there, his challenge cemented it. Helen was not an issue of that she was completely sure. It was now just Lex and Chloe. Two friends who were about to become a whole lot more. She smiled as she leaned over him, letting her breath brush across his ear as she took him up on his challenge.

"I can't even begin to describe how wonderful your touch feels. Can't you feel what it's doing to my heart?" She reached for his hand, placing it just under her breast, hearing his low moan.

She had to control her own breathing as she continued. "I've never been so aroused in my entire life. I've never felt what I'm feeling, simply from your touch. It burns against me, it stirs emotions in me I've never felt, but can't wait to experience. It makes me hot," she whispered impishly but truthfully, moaning as his hand slowly moved to cup her breast.

She lost her train of thought and the ability to think clearly as she felt his warm palm begin to knead her soft flesh, the sensations shooting through her body making her cry out in pleasure. She needed to feel him. She needed to kiss him. Really and truly kiss him, for the first time, like she'd dreamed about for months. "Lex," she whimpered, searching blindly for his lips, sighing as he turned and met her avid mouth.

Lex knew he'd found perfect happiness the moment her lips touched his. He meant to keep the kiss short and sweet, a simple taste, meant to have her begging for more. But he lost control at the heat he felt radiating from her as she slid her tongue against his lips, coaxing his mouth to open to her.

With a muttered oath, he crushed his lips to hers kissing her like he'd been dreaming about for longer than he could remember. Her mouth was soft and supple under his, her lips and tongue eagerly reaching out to duel with his as she poured all the passion he knew she kept bottled up inside into their kiss. His hands swept over her body, loving the moans and mewling sounds she made each time he found a new sensitive spot on her body. He was not silent either as he felt her small hands racing over his chest, her nails digging into his shoulders as she pulled him closer, arching her body against his.

He'd never felt such intense desire before in his life. His body was ready to explode the need was so great. But he had to be sure. "Chloe," he breathed, pulling back and looking deep into her eyes, seeing the desire and love radiating from them. "Are you sure?" He held his breath as he waited for her response.

Chloe looked deeply into his eyes, every cell in her body screaming for his touch, her mouth aching to be on his again. She read the desire and love shining in those blue orbs, for her. But there was one question that remained.

"Helen?" She hated the fact she had to bring the woman up, but needed to know for sure he wouldn't be breaking any vows if they went through with this.

Lex smiled as he looked into her eyes and replied. "We're through. She's in love with someone else. And she knew from the start, probably before I did, that I'd fallen in love with you Chloe Sullivan," he whispered, stroking a strand of hair back from her face.

Chloe felt her entire world halt at his words. Lex Luthor had just told her he had fallen in love with her. One look into his eyes told her he spoke the truth. Maybe miracles did happen. She felt the tears fill her eyes as she leaned her forehead against his, knowing she could finally speak the words that she'd been longing to tell him for months maybe her entire life.

"I love you Lex," she whispered, pulling back to look into his eyes as she made the confession, feeling her heart soar at the joy that appeared in his.

"I love you too Chloe. I'm only sorry I didn't realize it before," He felt his heart full to overflowing as he leaned down to brush his lips across hers, marveling that this beautiful woman, his best friend, truly loved him.

"I'm not," she said, seeing the surprise in his eyes as he pulled back to look at her.

"What do you mean?" he asked in a puzzled voice.

Chloe smiled as she stroked his forehead, trailing a finger lightly down his cheek and across his lips, gasping as he took the digit between his lips and bathed her finger with his tongue. She forced herself to remember his question.

"I mean if you had realized how you felt sooner, I wouldn't have gotten the chance to find out so many things about you." She saw the understanding dawn in the beautiful eyes that looked down into hers. "I found out the simple things that you love just as much as I do. I wouldn't have gotten to know the real Lex Luthor, the one you hide behind with your family and the Luthor businesses."

She choked up as she saw the pure emotion flood his eyes. "I don't regret a moment of our Friday nights, I learned more about you than I ever would have if we hadn't done them. I fell even more in love with you each Friday night," she whispered, removing her finger from his mouth and placing her lips on his.

Lex sighed at the gentle kiss, reveling in the love and desire mixed together in it. Chloe loved him. He didn't think he'd ever been happier in his life.

"I don't regret our Friday nights either," he whispered as they parted for breath. "I think I fell for you the moment you smiled at me and challenged me to explore the "simple things" in life. I knew there was no one I'd rather discover them with than you." He brushed away the tear of happiness that fell down her cheek as he finished. "And each week, I learned so much more about you, so much more about true love. I was blind to it until I met you." His heart came home as she leaned down to kiss him again. This time the kiss quickly went from gentle to passionate, tongues tangling in an intimate dance neither wanted to give up.

Several minutes later the two pulled away, in desperate need of breath. Lex was ready to explode, her simple kiss and the strategic placement of her hands on his thighs during it had him teetering on the edge.

"Chloe," he moaned, stopping as she began planting kisses along his collarbone.

"Yes Lex?" she whispered between kisses, loving the taste of him.

Lex tried to focus as his hands began exploring her heated body. "What do you say about me discovering what really makes you scream?" His sexy grin stole her breath and stopped her heart. She licked her lips in anticipation.

"I say, give it your best shot," she challenged with a devilish smile, laughing as he groaned and captured her lips with his pushing her body down into the sofa. The feel of his body against hers had her arching against him, desperate to feel more of him. Her hands began struggling with the buttons on his shirt, whimpering as she finally managed to push the offending material from his shoulders. His low moan echoed through the living room as she raked her nails down his back, loving the way Lex arched harder against her as his lips began a heated trail of kisses against her neck.

Lex moaned against her neck as he felt her body press closer to his. His hands were busy untying the sash at her waist, his blood heating as the material fell away to reveal that Chloe wore nothing underneath. The heat that slammed into his body at the knowledge nearly burned him alive.

"Chloe, so beautiful." He knew there were better words to describe her beauty, but at the moment, he was more interested in using his sense of touch. Moving his lips down her neck, one hand began stroking her nipples into even harder peaks, delighting in the whimpers and moans torn from her throat. Without giving her time to breathe, he captured one breast in his mouth, hearing her moan his name as she pushed herself harder against him.

"Lex, more, please!" She was whimpering now and arching against him like there was no tomorrow. The feel of his mouth on her was sending jolts of need directly to her center. She frantically pushed up against him, shuddering as her naked skin brushed against the rough material of his pants. Struggling to move, she slid her hands to the zipper and with a few quick tugs, had his hardness cupped in her hands.

"Jesus! Chloe!"

Lex shuddered at the feel of her small hand stroking him with short, quick moves that had him arching into her hands. He gasped as he felt her pull him between her legs, positioning him directly against her center.

"Chloe, slower, have to-"

"No!" Chloe was in no mood for slow. She'd wanted him, wanted this moment, for far too long. "Now, I need you Lex!" With that she pushed against him, crying out as the tip of his desire pressed inside her soft folds.

"Easy, don't want to hurt you," Lex managed to gasp, struggling to hold onto enough control to make this as painless as possible.

"Just do it Lex, please!"

Lex took a deep breath, tightening his grip on her hands before thrusting hard into her. He felt the tearing and heard her strangled cry as she absorbed him fully into her. He stilled, leaning down to brush a gentle kiss against her neck, murmuring soothing words as he forced his body to remain immobile.

Chloe took a deep breath as the sharp pain quickly receded to be replaced by a sense of fullness that she'd never known. Tentatively, she thrust her hips forward, hearing Lex moan at the sensation. Liking the sound, and the feeling it gave her, she pushed a little harder, feeling his hands tighten around hers.

"Chloe!" Lex moaned as he felt her walls squeeze him tightly, the heat surrounding him like a living flame. He wanted to take things slowly, ease her past the pain, but she obviously had other ideas.

"Lex, please!"

Who was he to not fulfill her request? With a deep breath, he began a steady rhythm, allowing her to adjust to the feel of him inside her. He sped up as he felt her begin to move faster, her pants and moans making him harder than he'd ever been.

"Chloe!" He cried out her name as he felt her muscles clamp down on him as she moaned his name brokenly. He flew over the edge with her then, thrusting hard and fast as he released himself into her.

Chloe had never felt such pleasure as the kind that washed over her as Lex shuddered above and in her. Unable to do more than tighten her arms around him, she rode out the sensations, loving the way he whispered her name against her ear as he collapsed on top of her.

It could have been moments, or hours later, when they both had enough strength to move. Chloe sighed as Lex slid to his side, pulling her tightly against him. Settling comfortably against his body, Chloe wrapped her arms around him and snuggled her head against his shoulder.

"I love you."

Lex smiled at her whisper as he pulled a blanket over them. He'd never felt more content in his life.

"I love you too." He smiled as she murmured something inaudible against his neck as she drifted off into sleep. He thanked God he'd decided to find out the "simpler things" in life. This was definitely one of the things he had a feeling they were both going to enjoy for the rest of their lives. With a smile on his face, he allowed himself to drift off to sleep as well, safe in the comfort of her arms.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The End

(Well, thoughts?)

[mina murray]

Thank god N-S.Net is back so I can tell you how GREAT that was. And not only the smut scene (of course, that was fantastic, as only Chlex smut can be :badboy: ) but the whole story was awesome. Kudos to you for a great story.
I´ll be looking foward to your next fic! :wave:

[hfce]

I love this story. I am sad to see it end. Great job :applause:



Hope :blinkkiss:

[drina]

Very, very well-developed story on the growing relationship between lex and chloe and culmulating in :smut: . I :applause: you.

[mina murray]

I remembered what I wanted to say: I can´t believe someone else watched the Red Shoe Diaries! I used to have such a crush in David Duchovny...oh well, those were the days...

[mina murray]

Ups, double post, sorry. Stupid dial-up connection

[bluemoongirl23]

Seductive Chloe. Emotional Lex. Red Shoe Diaries. Smut. Damn good story!!! Sad to see it end, but, what an end it was.

Blue

[Sway]

that was very, very good!! great end to a great story...

:blinkkiss: Sway

[DawnieAngel]

That was so so so so so so so good through and through, from begining to end. I don't know whether to grin or cry....but maybe that's just me being over emotional! ANYWAY!
I really loved this..sooo much! :biggrin:

Dawnie

[Gemini]

Hell yeah- now THAT'S how you write a chlex fic! :biggrin:

[kidkarmina]

I started reading this @ work today but as much as I wanted to finish reading it then, I could not. Damn work :blinkkiss: !

Anyway, finally finished reading and all I've gotta say: :wub: :wub: and lots of :worship2: !!!! It was very romantic (especially since Chlex were friends, good friends first). I luv it when it started out that way :cool: !!!! Very :cool: !!!

[Kit Merlot]

I love this story so much :biggrin:

It is so completely romantic--WELL DONE!

[Sab_Luthor]

that was an awsome fic
good job

[Shay]

~~DEEP SIGH~~

Shay

[Val]

*Deep Sigh* surely summons it up!
I LOVED this fic, so romantic.... :wub:

[Clannadlvr]

*sighs* This was wonderful!!! I think it's amazing how you were able to show the growing connectioni between Chloe and Lex. Absolutely wonderful!

Ah, and Moulin Rouge, Casablanca, and the red shoe diaries? Priceless


Great job!

[starmoon]

loved everything about this cool and wonderful story.

[arkakitty]

Amazing is the word, describing this the best ^^ I love it.

[ggdoll18]

really enjoyed it! nice work!

[Thaís]

Well, it took Lex long enough to realize Helen's trips weren't about work!!!!
Well, at least it gave Chloe time to know more of him before they got together.
Such a cute story, the way they can't help but realize that they are attracted to each other, and the way Chloe just couldn't kiss him before she knew he wasn't engaged to Helen anymore. Just a wonderful ending, with them finally getting together...

[micah_luther]

nnn

[micah_luther]

Amazing job. I've never wanted a chlex ship to happen so bad in my life. Amazing work

[happybum]

I just absolutly adore this fic! I'm glad they opened their eyes and saw the what they were missing in their life, each other. You make me wanna see a Rocky Horror show too, it sounded so fun. I also liked that each Friday, something new and different came out of it. I can't wait to read a new fanfic you cooking up. Great Job!

[Reese]

Good stuff all around. I'm glad that we got to see a not-quite-so-evil Helen in this one and he-seems-to-be-supportive Clark.

Also enjoyed the gradual progression of Lex and Chloe's relationship :)

Reese

[Ann]

Well this was so good the first time around that I decided I have to read it again. Just finished chapter one and of course, it was just as good as before. I really love the friendship that Chloe and Lex have and how they both long to spend time with each other. Must go now to read chapter two. :)

[Donutte]

OMG I was hooked on this story last night!!! Too drunk to leave any good feedback though, lol. I LOOOOVED how you had Chloe take Lex to see "Rocky Horror Picture Show"; I used to see that every week!!! That was just my totally favorite part of the story. And the girls laughing at the guys being "virgins" (can only imagine how Lex felt being called a "virgin", *snicker*). And the first time Chloe went over to Lex's place, and he said he made the "gourmet hot chocolate", and she tells him that she's sure he can dump two packets into a couple of mugs and add hot water very well. OMFG, I laughed soooo hard at that part (can't go back to get the exact quote, as I'm in the middle of the feedback, lol). Those two particular moments stuck out in my mind. And, the smut at the end was just awesome!! Kudos!!

Do'

[~*~Tasha~*~]

Excellent story. I loved the romantic build up and the culmination or realizations to the wonderful ending. Excellent story that I will enjoy rereading again at other times.

[angie284]

Wonderful story. I really enjoyed the slow build-up from friendship to something more.

[Alizaleven]

This was such a wonderful story, I really enjoyed reading about their weekly friday night thing. Good Job! :D

[Kit Merlot]

This story was so beautifully romantic that I just had to reread it.

I wish that we could see this type of a Chlex relationship in SV--WELL DONE:grin3:

[Tanschana]

Awww really like the story! Especially the end!
Great story!

[Zannie]

I've been rereading this story. It was one of the first Chlex stories I read, and it's such a sweet, refreshing look at their relationship. I love reading the stories written during the first couple of seasons. So much potential for sweetness without being twisted and conflicted like the later seasons necessitated for the pairing. I just love the sweet, natural romance here. Thanks for writing it.

[elementia]

still....gasping....for....breath...
*collapsed on floor*
:drool2:

[donhisiewen]

Such a romantic story. And it's also good that they were good friends first then lovers later. They're just like Mulder and Scully.

[Ami Rose]

That was an amazing story. One of my favorites now. Thank you!