Choose Your Own Chlexventure (PG-13 to R)

[BlueSabby]

Author: BlueSabby
Rating: PG-13 to R, each chapter may be different
Summary: You help Chlex decide where to go and what to do.
Disclaimer: Neither of us have anything good that we want taken from us by the WB. We don't own them, don't sue us.


Don’t ask how, but we got it in our heads to let our readers be in charge for once. The idea of this story comes from the Choose Your Own Adventure series of books. If you’re not familiar with them, it goes like this. You read the a few pages and then there is a cliffhanger. You have two options about what you want to do. You flip to the page with your choice and read your fate. Here, we will give you a choice at the end of the chapter. After everyone has voted, we will then write out a scene based on your choice. Now, you must be aware that in the books, choices often lead to death or some sort of badness befalling the main characters. This story is no exception, consider yourself warned. Enjoy.

A/N: Sabby: So yeah here's the new thing in town. Another of our collabs and I hope you'll have fun with it. We sure as hell do, already now *g*

A/N: Blue: Another crazy idea from us. Hope you enjoy it, now read on and rock the vote!


Profane curses spilled from Chloe’s mouth as she stomped through a thicket of bushes. She wasn’t Ms. Outdoors 2004, but she didn’t hate nature, either. At least, when it wasn’t trying to draw blood from her. The bushes had those damn prickers on them that always seemed to find the one inch of your skin that wasn’t covered by clothing.

As one of the barbs scratched her skin, what she was looking for came into view. She ignored the small pain and trickle of blood as the bushes fell away and a path made itself clear. Chloe walked towards the decrepit building and tried to ignore the nibble of trepidation that had started in her stomach. Taking a deep breath, Chloe squared her shoulders and walked towards the building that loomed in the moonlight.

It was times like these that she understood why her father worried about her curiosity getting her killed. She had been preparing to go home and watch some movies while eating copious amounts of chocolate. But, when she had read the slip of paper that had been pushed under the door of the Torch, her plans had quickly changed.

The drive hadn’t been too long and the map that was drawn on the note had been excellent. But now that she was here in the darkness and could hear the small sounds of various animals in the brush, it didn’t seem like the best idea. At the very least, she should have waited until morning.

‘Really, what kind of idiot would come out to an abandoned funhouse during the dead of night?’ Chloe didn’t really want to focus on the answer. The note had stated that if she went to this place, she would see some “Wall of Weird material.” In the safety and comfort of her office, she had even managed to convince herself that it was mostly likely one of Pete’s jokes.

Now that she was out here, she realized her error. But, it was too late to turn back. She was quickly approaching the doors of the funhouse. Or, more accurately, where the door should have been. They had long ago either been stolen or blown off the hinges. The front of the funhouse was made to look like the face of the clown. The clown’s mouth was open and when entering the building, you would walk into the mouth. ‘What kind of sick fuck designed this place?’

Chloe stopped directly in front of the entrance. She slipped her hand into one of her jacket pockets and wrapped her fingers around her cell phone. If anything freaky went down, she’d be able to reach the outside world. As she stepped through the doorway, a hand clamped down on her shoulder and she couldn’t stop a scream from escaping her lips.

Lex had been agitated for the better part of the last half hour. After finding a strange note on simple white paper on top of a stack of quarterly reports that had a very shady warning on it, he'd immediately grabbed his gun and took the silver Porsche, determined to follow the directions given and find out what the hell was going on.

When he'd come upon the fun house, Lex had carefully checked the surroundings, then opted to wait inside the shadows of the entrance for whatever was bound to happen. When he recognized the familiar face of Chloe Sullivan coming out of the shrubbery as the blonde made her way straight to the entrance without even sparing her surrounding a glance, the only thought that sprang to mind was 'figures'. He waited until she'd almost walked past him to grab her shoulder, his intention to shock her about as strong as to get her attention. When she whirled around screaming, he clamped a hand over her mouth. You never knew who else might be there and listening.

“What the hell are you doing here,” he hissed

Angrily, Chloe batted Lex’s hand from her mouth. She couldn’t believe that she had made such an ass out of herself in front of him. She was mad at herself and at him for making her freak out. Whispering, she said, “I might ask you the same thing, Lex.” When he merely slipped his hands in his pockets and stared at her, Chloe rolled her eyes. She should have known that Lex would get his answer first before progressing on with the conversation. “I received a note telling me to come to the funhouse. A note that I’m assuming you got as well.” Her heart rate had begun to return to normal and she could now think a little more clearly.

While she wanted to investigate what in the hell was going on, she had to admit to herself that she was glad to have another body with her. ‘Especially that one,’ a voice inside of her popped up. One that had been more and more vocal as of late where Lex was concerned.

Lex nodded curtly. “I'm assuming you have no idea as to who sent that note?” He removed his left hand from his pocket to touch her elbow then started to lead her slowly away from the entrance and a little further into the fun house.

Chloe looked around, taking in their surroundings. This was definitely not a place that they should be creeping around at night. She could see it was in poor condition and that there were numerous ways that one of them could get hurt. Many pieces of jagged wood sprung up from various places in the main room. She turned her attention back to Lex and said, “No, not at all. You?” She knew the answer already but figured she’d keep up the polite conversation as she came up with a plan of attack. She slipped her hand in the pocket that didn’t have her cell phone in it and took out a mini flashlight.

Lex shook his head, looking down as Chloe pulled out a small purple mac-light and switched it on. As far as funhouses went, this one looked even more rundown in the orb of the flashlight than it had before. “It wasn't handwritten and all it said was. 'You will find what you are looking for here.' Then the directions and that was it.” They kept walking down something like a hallway and Lex got that weird feeling in the pit of his stomach that he'd learned slowly but surely was not a good idea to ignore, ever since he came to Smallville.

Thinking of all the times in a horror movie some monster attacked from the ceiling, Chloe ran the beam of light up over their heads. She didn’t see any kind of mutant, werewolf, boogeyman, vampire or Frankenstein ready to spring down at them. However, she did see one huge whole above them. The house was much bigger on the inside that it had appeared from the path. No doubt about it, Chloe did not get warm fuzzies from this place.

Looking over at Lex, she said, “That’s what mine said, too. Very strange. So, Lex, what is it that you are looking for?” It was a loaded question, but one that she could pass off in the interest of finding out why they were both summoned here.

Lex smirked as he pulled her a little closer to him, away from a huge puddle on the ground that she would've stepped into while looking back and forth between him and the ceiling. “There's a lot of things I am interested in, but I don't think any of them can be found in a ramshackle funhouse. What about you?”

Sticking close to Lex, Chloe peeked through various doors as they passed them, Chloe said, “Truth, justice and the American Way. You know, the usual.” She gave Lex a small smile. “That, and a way to dominate the world by the time I’m thirty. Which I doubt I’ll find in here.” When she walked into a spider’s web, Chloe quickly wiped it off her face. “This sucks.”

Lex chuckled under his breath and pulled a stray web from the back of her head, snapping it off his fingers to let it float to the ground. “Interesting, I never knew you were going for world domination. I never strived for that sort of thing myself.” He peeked over Chloe's shoulder as she opened yet another door into a dusty room.

Seeing nothing of interest in the room, Chloe shut the door and turned her attention back to Lex. “Sure you haven’t,” she said, clearly not believing him. She could just imagine Lex having numerous rooms in the Manor devoted to just that pursuit. When she opened the next door, a figure flew out at her and she screamed yet again as she crashed back into Lex.

He had barely enough time to catch her around the waist and pull her to the side before that 'thing' swooped back the way it had come and disappeared back into the dark room. “What the fuck was that?” His eyes narrowed as he peered through the still open door into the darkness. Unconsciously, his hands were still securely around Chloe's waist.

Chloe moved back towards the door and felt Lex’s hands tighten around her waist as he tried to pull her back towards him. She had a better look at what had come towards them and she had figured out what it was. “I think it was a mummy,” she said. She peeked inside the dark room and trained her flashlight on the figure. Sure enough, it was a dummy wrapped up in gauze. Now, it looked cheesy. However, a moment ago, Chloe was ready to run out of the building.

Shaking his head, Lex pulled Chloe aside and slammed the door shut, maybe a bit too aggressively. “This is ridiculous. Whoever sent us these notes obviously just wanted to pull a prank and they've already succeeded in getting us out here in the middle of the night and looking for god only knows what.” Never the less he kept moving deeper into the bowels of the funhouse, a hand still at the small of Chloe's back as they kept walking.

Chloe thought about what Lex had said. “Ok, so let’s work from there. Is there anyone that we both know that would want us out in the middle of nowhere for some reason?” Chloe went through the various people that she knew. There were plenty acquaintances that she could see doing this. However, none of them would pull Lex into this. Plus, she didn’t know how they would have found out about this place. As they entered yet another dusty, dingy, creepy room, Chloe looked at Lex. “Any suspects?”

Lex shook his head. “Nobody that I know would pull such childish pranks. The only person I would have thought capable of it is currently residing in Wichita and I don't think he'd pull you into this with me.” The room was almost empty aside from a few sheet covered lumps of what Lex assumed to be props.

A chill ran down Chloe’s spine. She didn’t like this room and couldn’t put her finger on why. She ran the flashlight over the lumps in the room. As the light illuminated one of the sheets, it started to rock back and forth. “Lex,” she whispered his name and gestured to the now moving sheet clad lump.

Lex stepped closer to Chloe and followed the flashlight that was now illuminating one of the sheets. The fabric was moving back and forth and Lex knew that there was no draft in the room, he would have felt it. “I'm sure it's nothing,” he said, not sure who he was trying to convince with his statement as he slowly approached the moving lump of fabric.

The “nothing” kept moving and Chloe found herself rooted to the spot. It began to move at a quicker pace and the sheet fell off of the lump. A little girl stared at them as she rocked back and forth in an old rocking chair. She was pale and had dark hair and even darker eyes. She smiled over at them and simply said, “Hello.”



Choice A: Chloe and Lex stay to talk to the girl

Choice B: Chloe and Lex run off

[Czech Angel]

choice A

[autumngold]

Ok, since you mentioned character deaths, I'm afraid to answer, but I guess I'll vote for A!! Lex and Chloe need to understand what's going on!! Thanks for this neat story idea!! :chlexsign3:

[michelle_19781997]

I'm gonna have to go with A.

[buddyfozzy]

Wow :huh:

choice A

[LaLa]

A is my choice too---no no no wait!---B---NO NO NO! i'm changing my mind! A...there A, i think....Errrrrrh!

A? No chloe or lex's death right? cuz, if it's the case, Choice B!

( i'm the kind of girl who knows what she wants in life, yep)

xoxo LaLa

[moultipass1]

Originally posted by autumngold@Jul 4 2004, 02:09 AM
Ok, since you mentioned character deaths, I'm afraid to answer, but I guess I'll vote for A!!
Yeah, that!

Moultipass :chlexsign4:

[hfce]

I am choosing A. There is no way Chlex would not want to know who she is.


Hope :)

[newbatgirl]

First off, great idea. Part of me desparately wants to know how you guys come up with these ideas and write such great stuff but I think knowing would just spoil the mystery and my enjoyment of the final product so don't tell me. Sort of like the old adage about how laws and sausages get made. You just don't need to know all the details.

Oh, and Choice A. :biggrin:

[asharnanae]

:dry: I so know I sould pick B, but that little damn voice, you know the one, that little voice which ALWAYS gets you into every kind of trouble. So like a fool I listened and went with A.

Please don't die, I really hate it when that happens.

[sylvia]

Oh, I hate little children. Especially long-dead ones. Still, I agree with Hope -- there's no way Chlex would leave without at least trying to get some answers.

[lexchloe]

I'm a big scaredy cat girl so I'm gonna go with B. RUN YOU FOOLS!!!!

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: Here's the next part, no one dead yet *g*

A/N: Blue: I can't believe you people think we would kill them off......so soon. Choice A won so here's what we did with it.


Again, Chloe ran through the list of horror movies that included creepy children. Her first instinct was to run but she knew that she’d never live it down with Lex so she stayed where she was. Besides, it would be stupid to give up such a golden opportunity for a story. The girl was still looking at them expectantly and Chloe supposed it would be rude not to answer. She wasn’t about to go and piss off some demon and/or ghost child.

“Hi.” That was all Chloe had. But, she figured she should give the whatever it was a little more to work with. “I like your rocking chair.” There, that was good. Be friendly, open up a conversation.

Lex kept one eye on the girl as he turned his head towards Chloe. He would have shot her an 'Have you lost it?' look, but since she'd made the decision for both of them he resigned himself to fate, and to deal with this ...whatever the hell it was in the shape of a girl, of course. The thing in question was still silently rocking back and forth. “Do you belong here?” He stepped in front of Chloe, inevitably drawing closer to the apparition, if anything happened, Chloe could make a break for it.

At the same moment, Lex cursed his upbringing, it would be much easier to be a coward, but no....he had to be all heroic. What the hell had gotten into him? 'Maybe you wouldn't like to be responsible if anything happened to the girl? And you get a kick out of being all manly.' Lex shrugged to himself; he couldn't argue with that.

Speaking of manly. He chose to remember at this moment that he had brought his gun. It would at least be worth a shot - pun intended - when it came down to it.

The little girl tilted her head and looked at them quizzically. "Of course I belong here, silly." She rocked back and forth with more force and started to laugh. "You do, too." She stopped rocking, her hair a little out of place by now. "And so does she." She pointed at Chloe.

Even though Lex was standing between her and the girl, Chloe still felt vulnerable and exposed when the girl pointed at her. Her laughter was high pitched and there was something off about it. Chloe was now kicking herself for the decision to talk to the girl.

The girl jumped off the rocking chair and walked over to one of the other lumps. She yanked off the sheet and Chloe could see that there was a toy box under it. The girl opened it and pulled out two dolls. Or, more accurately, one doll that looked like Lex and another that looked like her. This had just gone from bad to worse.

Chloe had started to move away from the girl. There was another door to their left and Chloe intended to use it before the girl got all voodoo on their asses.

Lex took a slow step backwards and gave the girl a wide berth, then shot a look in Chloe's direction, behind her was a door, if they were lucky it wasn't locked. The girl seemed to be distracted with her dolls for the moment, making them face each other and then away walking them around the edge of the box she'd pulled them from. “Ok, what do you mean, we belong here?” Behind his back he motioned for Chloe to move as he tried to focus the girls attention on him.

Chloe’s eyes widened as she watched the Lex doll make the same hand motion that Lex just had. She put her hand to her mouth to keep from making some damsel in distress girly noise and realized her error when her doll did the same.

The girl looked back at Lex. “You belong here like they did.” Chloe now noticed that there were other dolls that were leaning against the toy box. “I used to play with them, but then they went away.” A small pout appeared on her face. “I hate it when they go away. But, I always get new toys.” She turned the two dolls towards one another and Chloe watched as Lex spun around to face her.

Lex hadn't intended to spin on his heel, yet there he was, facing Chloe, trying hard to remain composed. His heart was trip hammering in his throat and he slowly spun back around to face the girl, watching with narrowed eyes as the puppet turned in her hand. “I'm sorry to hear that. And I must apologize, but my companion and I really have to get underway now, so have fun playing.” While he spoke in a calm voice, he slowly stepped backwards, closer to Chloe and the door behind her. “Goodbye,” he said steadily as his hand closed around Chloe's elbow. The puppets were still imitating their every move. This was fucking creepy.

“No,” the girl stood up and stomped her foot. Chloe felt herself pulled away from Lex as the girl ripped the two dolls apart. “We haven’t played my favorite game yet.” Chloe watched as the girl pulled a doll sized wedding dress out of the toy box. Then, she watched and felt as the buttons of her shirt were undone. She tried to pull her shirt shut but the little girl was stronger than the doll that was held in her hand.

Lex's eyes shot from the puppet in the girl's hands over to Chloe. She was positively horrified and trying to clutch her blouse together. “Wait.” His tone was cold and threatening. The girl's hands stilled on the Chloe puppet. “What do you think you're doing?” Internally, he willed Chloe to at least move closer to the door.

“We’re playing wedding,” the girl explained as if Lex were an idiot.

Chloe started to move a little closer to the door behind her as the girl continued to talk. “See, I have her dress and,” she brought out a powder blue tuxedo, “your big boy clothes.”

Lex was following her lead and they were almost to the door. The girl chattered on.

“Then, you kiss, like this.”

Lex felt himself being yanked around and literally thrown at Chloe. “Fuck!” He was able to turn his head to the side at the last moment before colliding straight on with her face. The force that pulled them together could have easily broken both their noses. He brought his arms up to Chloe's shoulders, pulling back and straightening himself as much as her. Chloe's eyes were wide as saucers as she looked up at him. “Let's get the fuck out of here,” he whispered harshly.

Chloe heard the girl making kissing noises behind Lex and kept feeling her head being whipped from side to side. If they didn’t get out of here soon, she may very well suffer from whiplash. “No argument here.” Chloe pulled away from Lex, grabbed his hand and lunged for the door. She heard the girl screaming and felt her body being pulled back but fought against it. She felt a weight leave her body and looked behind her. They had made it through the door and it has slammed shut behind them.

She dropped Lex’s hand and ran one of hers through her hair as she took a few deep breaths.

Lex leaned against the wall and let go of a long breath. “That was...” He shook his head. Taking in his surroundings as his eyes adjusted to the light, something seemed definitely off. He couldn't put his finger on it though. “Ok, now let's find a way out of here. One thing is for sure, there's no way either of us will go back through this door.” He stepped further into the room and turned back around to look at Chloe. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. Now.” She looked back at the closed door. “Remind me never to have children. Or, if I do, to never give them possessed dolls.” She walked towards Lex and focused her attention on the floor, making sure that she wouldn’t stumble on the floorboards that were splintered.

When she'd turned back towards the door, Chloe's shirt had gaped open a little and Lex's eyes immediately had riveted to the stark difference between her pale skin and the dark color of her bra. Ignoring her jibe, he cleared his throat. “Chloe, you might wanna rebutton your shirt.”

“Oh, god.” Chloe had forgotten that she was giving Lex a free show. Even though it was dark she was certain that he could still see her blushing furiously. Making sure that they were all properly done up she mumbled a thanks and then squinted at something that was at the end of the hall. Then, she looked to her right and noticed another door.

“Lex, there’s something down there.” She motioned to the end of the hall and he turned around to look. “So, we can either go and see what’s down there or take Door Number Two right there.” She pointed at the door. “What do you think?”


A: Continue down the hall

B: Take Door Number Two

[autumngold]

I hope I'm not the first one to pick, but I guess I'll vote for A again?!! I just don't want to be responsible for Lex getting hurt!! :crygreen: Thanks for the update!! :chlexsign4:

[moultipass1]

Damn, that's a hard one... I'd say... choice A, down the hall? Doors are strange. I don't trust doors. Something can hide behind doors. What? You mean something can hide down a hall as well? Well... They'll just have to live with it, won't they? Definitely A.

Great job girls. :blinkkiss:

Oh, and btw, I thought the kid/ghost/thing/doll playing girl had good ideas! Play wedding? With Lex? Why not? lol

Thanks for the quick update! :biggrin:

Moultipass :chlexsign4:

[buddyfozzy]

No more doors, only bad things can be found behind that door. Take the hallway. :ohmy:

Great update :yay:

[sylvia]

Hey, I actually kinda liked the freaky little girl. She wanted them to get married, after all.

Anyway. Typically I'd choose A, because hallways offer more options of escape, whereas doors could be the only way into and out of a room. Yes, I am a coward. However, since Lex's gut feeling tells him there's something not quite right about the hallway, I'll go with B this time.

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: Very very cool!!!!! I love this so much, and the freaky voodoo was fantastic!


I say...


DOOR NO. 2!

so B for me please.

[hfce]

I choose A. I dont like doors.


Hope :)

[LaLa]

ok, so i'll take the same decision as moultipass, seing as how we're well coordinated lol A, first door...
for the doll thing: can i do that with my own lexy doll?...with me, not chloe (hide for objects thrown her way)

xoxo LaLa

[michelle_19781997]

I'm going to go with A.

[moultipass1]

Originally posted by LaLa@Jul 5 2004, 04:53 PM
ok, so i'll take the same decision as moultipass, seing as how we're well coordinated lol A, first door...
Damn, now, I'm gonna have to let you choose first next time! :blinkkiss:

Moultipass :chlexsign4:

[LaLa]

well, life ain't esay hun'!

[BlueSabby]

A/N:Sabby: So you thought the hallway was safe? MUAHAHAHAHAH

A/N: Blue: Oh, lovies. Shouldn't you guys know that no way is safe with us? Enjoy.

Chloe watched as Lex looked first at the door and then peered down the hallway. It was pitch black where they were standing, but it seemed lighter down the hall. Almost as if there was some sort of light down there.

Without so much as a word to Chloe, Lex walked down the hall. She gritted her teeth, keeping a biting comment from escaping her mouth. Fighting wouldn’t get them anywhere. She silently followed him down the hall and finally saw what was illumining the darkness.

It was, of all things, a crystal ball. It was in the center of a small, circular table. The orb was glowing and Chloe thought she could also hear a low humming sound coming from it. She moved around Lex and saw that the surface of the ball was cloudy and appeared to be moving.

Lex kept peering down the hall, trying to find if this could potentially be a way leading out of this damn fun house. What had he been thinking following a damn anonymous note out into the middle of nowhere.

He was taking care not to touch anything so all his alarm bells started ringing when Chloe brushed past him on her way to a small crystal ball on a nearby table. 'What is it with women and sparkling objects?' Lex immediately turned and followed her. His eyes widened as she reached out to the ball. “Chloe, don't!” His hand closed over hers at the same moment that she touched the crystal, his fingertips barely grazing the smooth surface of the ball. Searing pain shot behind his eyes as his vision whited out.

She really hadn’t meant to touch the crystal ball. But, she almost couldn’t help herself. She vaguely heard Lex calling her name and felt his warm hand cover her own. Then, she grabbed at her head as bolts of white hot pain shot through it.

When she took her hands away, she looked up just in time to see a woman staring down at her. Rage was clear in her eyes and Chloe didn’t have a chance to defend herself as the woman’s fists began to pummel her about the head and shoulders.

More pain flared through her body. As she tried to move her hands in order to fight back, Chloe found that she couldn’t. She crawled away from the woman and noticed that she was no longer in the fun house. She was in a huge, opulently decorated room. When she caught sight of herself in a full length mirror, she gasped.

Staring back at her was the face of a young, petrified Lex Luthor. He was bleeding from his upper lip and his eye had already started to turn purple.

She heard a high pitched scream from behind her and felt Lex’s emotions. He was terrified and confused. Chloe could feel the tears starting to form behind his eyes. But, he felt like he deserved it, too. She couldn’t get a handle on what was happening. She didn’t have time to before Lex whipped around in time to watch the woman, his mother, she knew that now, pick up a small table and throw it in his direction.

‘My fault, my fault.’ Chloe could actually hear Lex’s thought. ‘I’m sorry, Mom.’ She felt the tears starting to slide down his cheeks. He didn’t wipe them away.

“You ungrateful bastard, I did it for you, I did it all for you.” Lex’s mother looked like a madwoman but all Lex wanted to do was hold her and tell her it would be alright.

Lex didn’t try to fend his mother off as she grabbed him by his shirt and Chloe felt her nails dig into Lex’s skin. She was screaming right in his face now. Chloe could feel her spit hit his lips. Again, Lex didn’t react. “I *killed* him for you!” His mother pulled back and slapped him.

Chloe felt Lex’s head snap back and he fell to the floor as his mother let him go. She leaned over and hissed, “You’re just like *him*. You’ll bring nothing but pain to the world.” She got right next to his ear. “It should have been *you*.”

She kicked Lex in the ribs and Chloe felt the wind being knocked out of him. His mother walked out of the room and Lex curled up into a little ball. Chloe couldn’t take it anymore. Not the physical pain, Lex was dealing with that. But, the force of what he was feeling was coursing through her body unchecked.

The shame, the guilt and, despite what had just occurred, the overwhelming love for his mother. It was too much. She had to get the hell out of here. Putting aside the fact that she was about to break down from what she, or Lex, was feeling, this was wrong. It was too intimate to be able to feel the racking sobs that were starting to take over his body.


Lex's eyes snapped open as a massive body pressed into him from behind, huge hands mauling him roughly, pulling him back against a hardness that pressed between his asscheeks. Panic was rising in him, sweat breaking out over his face and all over his body. 'Oh god, no, please no, so stupid, please no, fuck.' But the rambling thoughts weren't his own. Looking down the length of his body, Lex's sight was immediately obscured by blond wisps covering falling over his face. Through them he could see creamy white skin, an ample cleavage, short skirt….

A scream ripped from his throat as his head was yanked back violently by the hair with one of the rough hands while the other grabbed the left breast almost viciously and squeezed hard. Lex felt a stinging, burning pain in both places and couldn't even decipher which hurt worse. “Clark, no!” Not his voice. Oh god, Chloe. Lex was still thrown between panic fear and rambling thoughts running through his, or rather Chloe's, mind at the speed of light as the voice belonging to the massive bulk of a man behind him seeped into his ear. “I told you that's not my name.” Chloe's hair got another quick jerk and a huge sloppy tongue ran squarely over his ear. Lex shuddered in disgust along with Chloe. “Let me go!” She demanded, but her voice was trembling.

Lex's senses seemed to overload as he felt the rough manhandling and got lost in the mantra of 'No, no please, no stop, so stupid, I'm so stupid' that ran loud in Chloe's ears. His own emotions seemed subdued even though he was dimly aware of the seething hatred that bubbled up inside him as Clark kept mauling Chloe with his hands, lips and teeth. “Why, Chloe, I thought that's what you wanted. In fact weren't you just gagging for it last spring?” This time one of the huge paws roughly went down and under the waistband of Chloe's skirt as a scream of pain and panic was drowned out by pounding techno beat. “No, please.”

It was a whimper and even though Lex desperately willed himself to stand up straight, to make his arms move, push, scratch, pound into the huge male behind him, Chloe's arms came up weakly, trying to cover herself as she squirmed against Clark behind her. “Let me go!” He could feel the tears streaming down her face and the air clogging up in his throat as fear rose to a fever pitch. “Please, stop,” exhaled on a sob. Inside Lex was shaking, this was too much. God and she'd never told anyone, he knew that as sure as he knew that this was the summer that Clark had never told him about, the summer before everything went to hell in a hand basket. It was too much, just too much and everything seemed to go black around the edges as a large hand had come around to envelope his throat and. 'I'm sorry daddy, I'm sorry, Clark, I'm sorry...'

And suddenly he felt the weight of Clark lifting from behind his back and being pulled away and this was it. This was his chance, god he had to get away and he had to get out of here somehow, Chloe's heart was jack hammering inside her chest and her shirt was torn and only haphazardly covering her and Lex was getting lost and couldn't tell the difference anymore between his own emotions and hers and 'God, gotta get out of here gotta get out of here,' even their voices mixed inside his mind.

There had to be a way out, there just had to 'Got to get away, please just...' Everything seemed to blur around him, the sound of the beat and music around him suddenly seeming to come through cotton balls in his ears and Chloe's legs were stumbling under him, not looking up, gaze steadily on the floor and moving fast, running, jamming into other people, trying to get away and out and 'Just home, please I just want to go home' Chloe's thoughts 'God, I have to get out of this, it hurts, no idea how much it could hurt' Lex's own as he stumbled through a door and into the night and suddenly he saw headlights coming from his left and he looked into them, eyes wide and unblinking and everything froze and disappeared into stark white surrounding, swallowing.

Lex jerked out of it, vision hazy and breath coming in hard pants, his hand still covering Chloe's and body pressed against her back, he immediately jerked back and gave her room without conscious thought.

When Chloe opened her eyes again, she wasn’t at Luthor Manor anymore. She could see the walls of the fun house in front of her. Lex was pressed against her for a moment and then she felt him take a step back. Chloe tried to get herself under control before turning around. She wiped away the tears that had slipped out from under her lids and took a deep breath before turning around.

She could still feel Lex’s emotions, but they were beginning to ebb away. She was certain that he had never told anyone about what had happened that day with his mother. Chloe didn’t want to analyze the psychology of how that had influenced his choice of women that only seemed to want to hurt him. It also explained where he had gotten that scar from and why when the press asked about it, he changed the subject.

Chloe turned around and a small noise left her throat when she saw Lex. He was pale and drawing ragged breaths. When Chloe took a step towards him, she could see that he was trembling slightly. ‘Oh, god. He had to go through that again.’

It was the only explanation for why he looked that way. And, it was all her fault, if she hadn’t touched that damn crystal ball, this wouldn’t have happened. “Lex, I’m sorry.” Chloe didn’t know what else to say. “Are you ok?” She kept her voice low and soothing.

Lex's gaze flew to her face and saw the smudged makeup and the wide open eyes. “Me,” he croaked. He cleared his throat. “God, Chloe. Why didn't you ever tell anyone? How could he...” he shook his head and realized that his hands were still trembling. As soon as they got out of here he'd have words with Clark. Words being a very flowery euphemism for beating the living daylights out of this self righteous, abusive, rotten...His thoughts stopped short when he saw Chloe's eyes fill with confusion.

Chloe had no clue as to what was going on. Lex had mentioned a ‘he’ and that didn’t make sense with what she had just seen. She shook her head as she slowly approached him. She started to reach out to him, but thought better of it and lowered her hand. “Lex, what are you talking about?”

Lex shook his head and narrowed his eyes, if he'd just relived one of Chloe's memories, most likely she'd been...”Chloe, what did you see when you were...” He motioned towards the crystal at a loss for words.

“I saw your mother.” She paused, she didn’t know how to put it delicately. Lex was looking at her intently and he would know if she lied. “I saw her hitting you.” Her voice was barely above a whisper. “I’m so sorry, Lex. Whatever it was that you thought was your fault, you didn’t deserve that.” Her voice was strong with conviction. There was nothing that a child could have done that would warrant such violence.

Lex nodded mutely. Pushing her comment from his thoughts he looked straight back at her, finally regaining his composure. He didn't know how to sugar coat his words and he didn't think it necessary. “I saw Clark, trying to rape you. It was somewhere in Metropolis so I'm assuming it was the summer I spent rotting on the island.” He didn't even notice the cold, hateful tone his voice had taken as he once again envisioned himself tearing apart the bastard that he'd once called his friend.

‘It wasn’t him.’ Even after what had happened, Chloe had made excuses for Clark’s action. But, she knew that even though Clark hadn’t truly been himself, it was still a *part* of him that had tried to do that to her. She dropped her gaze and stared at the floor. She had noticed the way that Lex had deflected any conversation about what he had been through. Instead, he had put the focus back on her.
“Yes, that’s when it happened,” she said simply. She didn’t feel the need to explain it anymore. If Lex’s experience was anything like her own, he wouldn’t need her to go into any more detail.

Lex nodded and reached out his hand. “Let's go,” he said, his voice calmer now. “And I'm sure we can agree on not touching anything from now on, right?”

Chloe took his hand and nodded. God only knew what would happen the next time that she decided to play with whatever the fun house threw their way. As they walked back down the hallway, Chloe linked her fingers through Lex’s. She knew that she’d never be able to look at him the same way now that she had seen what his mother had done to him.

Lex's grip briefly returned the pressure, then kept her hand loosely in his as they continued down the corridor. “I don't even want to know what would have waited for us behind that other door.” As soon as the words were out of his mouth, he could see the end of the hallway. Straight ahead was a window that had been haphazardly nailed shut with a few planks and on the adjourning walls a door on each side. “Fuck,” he voiced heartfelt.

Chloe sighed. They’d have to pick a way to go. Unless, of course, they wanted to try and get the boards off of the window. Which, would be a fool’s errand. “I know I’m going to regret saying this, but it certainly can’t be as bad as….” Chloe trailed off.

Something had caught her on the floor, she bent down and picked up a crowbar. It hadn’t been there when they had walked down the hall before, she was sure of it. They would have tripped over it. But, it was here now. She dropped Lex’s hand and walked over to the window. “It’s worth a shot,” she said, shrugging.

Lex stepped back as Chloe swung out with the crowbar. “Do you want me to...” The crowbar sank between two of the planks with a sickening crunch and Lex watched as Chloe used her full strength to pull it down and pry the upper one away from the window. “Okay,” he smirked.

Chloe took her frustration out on the window and it felt damn good. Stupid house thought that it could just have its way with her and Lex. When she peeked out the window, she shook her head and then looked again. It was impossible.

The window was at ground level. They had climbed up a hill to get to the funhouse and there was no way that they had gone down at any point. Nevertheless, Chloe saw what she saw. She stepped back and said to Lex, “Take a gander.” Maybe he’d be able to make more sense of it.

Lex had averted his eyes from Chloe's display of violence, conscious to not risk any flying splinters ending up in his eyes and was currently staring at something else, or rather, the lack of something else. “Uhm, same goes for you.” He motioned at the blank wall were only minutes before there'd been a door to his right.

Frustrated, Chloe threw the crowbar on the floor. “Well, fuck a duck. What the hell is that about?” She gestured to the wall. She ran her hands through her hair. “You know what, I don’t care. That,” she pointed to the window, “doesn’t make any sense either.”

Stepping around her, Lex took a look out of the window. His eyebrows would have connected with his hairline, if he'd had one. “Huh,” he deadpanned. “Am I the only one strangely reminded of Twilight Zone?” He asked without looking back at Chloe.

“Right there with ya, Lex,” Chloe murmured. “Though, it’s nice to have company while going crazy.” She looked back at the other door. ‘Why do we always have to decide whether to go through some sketchy door or something else. Why are there no fluffy bunnies leading us out of this place?’
“Not to sound like a broken record, but, what now?”

Lex shrugged. “Well I don't particularly wanna go all the way back from where we came.” He turned around to the hallway that now all of a sudden ended a few feet down in a solid wall. “Which obviously isn't even an option anymore.” Jerking his chin up, he turned his head back to Chloe. “Ok, if this is anything like Twilight one this wall is probably gonna start to move any second, so door or window?”


A: Door

B: Window

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: YAY!!!!! this is so brilliant, but can I just say DAMN!!! that was one hell of a rollacoster ride! :ohmy:


DOOR!!!!! I just have vissions of dawn of the dead Zombies with the whole window thing.

[LaLa]

mmmh, i'd say window, to change the whole 'doors are evil'

so B!

xoxo LaLa

[moultipass1]

Okay... everybody witnessed that I said I'd let LaLa choose first, which means that now I have to agree with her, which means if anything bad happens to them (and it will!) it's all her fault! :biggrin:

Choice B, window.

This chapter was... well beyond words!

Moultipass :chlexsign4:

[autumngold]

I don't think I should choose again!! I've seen what's happened to poor Lex and Chloe because of my last two choices!! Oh well, I guess I'll choose B this time, maybe it's just A that's cursed?!! :chlexsign4:

[newbatgirl]

B. Window I wanna see what's out there.

P.S. Excellent dialogue, BTW, as usual.

[hfce]

I am bowing out. I refuse to choose. ;)


Hope :)

[star del mar]

window, window, window!! :biggrin:

[HisGirlFriday]

Man, this hard having to choose.

But I'm going to go with window, I want to see what's out there.

Great dialogue! :biggrin: Funhouses are creepy. :unsure: and I'm scared for them.

[sylvia]

That was an awesome chapter. And I think I'll pick B as well, to find out what exactly is behind that window.

[michelle_19781997]

door

[Queen Of Tact]

OMG this is great... I don't know how you two come up with this stuff but I love it....

Being the queen of horror movies that I am, I say what the hell go with the window after all knowing you 2 either way their going to be in trouble...


CC

[pop55]

I pick the door!! I always think taht behind door we find new beginnings! :chlexsign3:

[scifichick774]

Finally catching up with this and I'll have to say window. I'm sure I'll regret my choice later, but if this is anything like the real choose your own adventure books, then it won't matter which option you pick, because really, everything has a twist.

[marrycherry]

this is a great idea guys!!!!!!!! :yay: when i was a kid i read almost all the choose your own adventure series i loved it!!!!!!!!!!


ok, ok, my pick: DOOR!!!!!!!!!


:chlexsign4:

[buddyfozzy]

Great chapter :biggrin:

window

[S.Ann Smith]

Door

:) nice fic gals

[ColumbiaBlue]

Just catching up with this and WOW! Excellent! Um... I choose... window? Door? I dunno...

Window, I guess. :)

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: This one is going to be fun! You chose wisely lovelies *G*

A/N: Blue: If you don't know what story we're talking about, you had no childhood and I pity you.

Chloe didn’t like either of her options. She wasn’t jazzed about the idea of walking through one of the doors and going deeper into the house that was really no fun what so ever, never mind the sign that proclaimed otherwise outside. The window wasn’t any more enticing to her, either.

“How about neither?” She knew that she sounded like a wimp but she could really care less. “I mean, if we stay in one place, we can’t have anymore creepy stuff happen to us, right?” Chloe knew that there was no logic in her statement, but she was hoping that Lex wouldn’t focus on that.

As soon as the words were out of her mouth, the wall began moving towards them. She glared at Lex, his earlier words had obviously given the building the idea to do so. “Fine,” she muttered, keeping her eyes on the wall as it came closer, “Window it is.”

Lex shook his head as he watched Chloe scramble out of the window and onto the grass below, only to stop right in front of it as soon as she'd hit the ground, “Chloe move!”

When Chloe had taken in her surroundings, she found that she couldn’t move. It was too surprising. It was broad daylight and there was beautiful, perfect green grass as far as the eye could see. Not at all what she had expected. Lex’s clipped order had permeated her brain and she quickly stepped to the side, allowing him to climb out of the window.

Lex landed on the ground, whipping around to ask Chloe what the hell was wrong with her when he had to squint his eyes. “What the fuck?” he mumbled as he kept his eyes low to adjust to the sudden sunlight. “Ok, we're definitely not in Kansas anymore,” he spoke out loud.

Ignoring the glib comment, Chloe shielded her eyes and continued to look around. The grass was the only thing in her field of vision. She didn’t see any other buildings and turned back to the funhouse. The window was now, unsurprisingly, a wall. They couldn’t go back even if they wanted to. Sighing, she looked up at the sun, wondering why it seemed so much brighter. Her eyes widened. “Lex.” She was whispering for some reason. When he looked over to her, she jabbed her chin in the direction of the sun, praying that he would see what she did.

Lex shielded his eyes with a hand as he followed Chloe's gaze up to the sun and had a hard time keeping his jaw from dropping. “Huh,” he deadpanned. “Smiling face chubby cheeks and blue eyes?” He asked as if to verify what he was seeing was real.

Nodding mutely, Chloe found that she couldn’t stop staring at the sun. It was smiling down at them and then it winked at them. “Ok,” she said as she turned back to Lex, “I’m done here, let’s get the hell out of here.” She had no clue how they were supposed to do that being that there were no doors, windows or any other creepy places to go through, but that was beside the point.

Lex swept their surroundings with another glance, looking for some sort of 'exit' from their current place. “Well as much as I agree, do you see any way out of here?” he started walking farther away from the funhouse and into the open field.

“Nope,” Chloe said. She scanned the area more closely, hoping to see something that she had missed before. There wasn’t anything new…except….she squinted her eyes and saw something off in the distance. It was moving towards them but she couldn’t tell what it was. However, she guessed that whenever it made its way to them, she wouldn’t be happy. “Lex, something is coming.” She pointed her finger at the growing shape. “If it’s that freak ass girl again, I say that we beat her into submission. You up for that?”

Chuckling slightly, Lex arched his eyebrow at Chloe. “I wouldn't have figured you for the overly violent type. Then again, after seeing what you did with that window…” he trailed off, trying to distinguish the rapidly approaching shape against the sunlight. Taking a step forward he squinted his eyes. “If I didn't know better I'd say it looks like a giant...”

“Bunny!” Chloe practically shouted the word. Of all of the things that she had been preparing herself for, a big, fluffy, white bunny was not one of them. With their luck, it probably had rabies. She couldn’t make out the features of the animal, but it was definitely a rabbit. “This just keeps getting weirder and weirder,” she said to Lex.

Lex nodded and stepped in front of Chloe as the bunny came closer. When he finally got a good look at the bunny's features, his face cracked into a smile. “I don't believe this,” shaking his head in pure disbelief and mirth, he slowly stepped aside to let Chloe have a look. The bunny way now running straight towards them and Lex could hear him muttering something under his breath.

For a moment, Chloe was worried about Lex. There wasn’t anything particularly funny about their situation. However, when she got a good look at the bunny, she could understand the humor of the situation. “Oh my god,” she murmured.

The bunny finally reached them and Chloe clapped her hand over her mouth the keep from laughing as the bunny spoke. The words were to be expected. “"Oh dear! Oh dear! I shall be too late!" But, seeing Lionel Luthor in full bunnymode saying the words in a high-pitched voice was another matter.

Lex couldn't help it, he was cracking up. This was the best laugh he'd had in ages. His father, looking like a bunny, muttering about being late. A frantic expression on his face and he didn't even seem to see them as he ran past. Lex motioned for Chloe to do something, unable himself to get a word out between his laughter.

Lex’s laughter was infectious and Chloe had to get herself together before doing anything. First, she took one last look at Lex. While he was laughing, he finally looked his age. Unlike every other time when the mask that he wore made him seem older. She tried to commit the way he looked to memory and had to turn away when Lex caught her staring at him.

“Excuse me,” Chloe called after the Lionelbunny, “Could you help us?”

The bunny's eyes widened. “I can't, no time, I'm running late. She'll have my head! Gotta go, gotta go!”

Chloe didn’t need to remember the exact specifics of the story to know that she didn’t want to come into contact with the Queen. She doubted that a meeting with her would end well for them. “Yeah, yeah, I know. But, do you think you could focus for a second and point us in the direction of a way out of here?” She looked hopefully at whatever the hell Lionel now was. She couldn’t help but enjoy the squirming he was doing, too. When the rabbit still looked at her dubiously, she jerked her thumb in Lex’s direction, “He has a carrot for you.”

“Out? Poor child. There's no way out. Because we are out? Don't you see that? There's only a way in!
Now I gotta go! Carrot?” He looked demandingly at the man a little ways off from the girl.

Bunny frowned. Why didn't this guy surrender the carrot already, he didn't have time for this. “There's my way in and then there's your way in of course. Everyone's got their own way in. Now let me go MY way then you go yours. Carrot!” He held his paw out, this time, one of his hind legs tapping rapidly on the ground.

It took Chloe a moment to decipher the bunny’s words. So, everyone had a way in. They would just have to use the bunny’s, though. She saw no other technique that would work. “Our way will be your way. Then, you will get the carrot.” Hopefully, if they followed the crazy bunny through something, he would disappear and they wouldn’t have to deal with him after that. If they did, he just may attack. She saw the crazy look in his eyes. Bunny needed a fix.

Bunny was getting irritated now. “That's nonsense. You can't use my way because my way is My way not Your way or Our way, so give the carrot already. I'm...” He looked at his pocket watch, his eyes widening comically. “Oh god, she'll kill me, I'm late!” One last look at the boy who supposedly had a carrot, but he couldn't stay any longer. Sighing heavily, the bunny turned around and started to run as fast as his hind legs could carry him.

“Oh, for fuck’s sake,” Chloe growled before taking off after the bunny. He was their one chance of getting out of this place. She knew that he’d eventually disappear down a rabbit hole. The thought of crawling through a darkened hole in the ground disturbed Chloe, but she’d do what she had to do. She saw that the bunny was gaining ground and she pushed herself harder. Lex appeared on her right side and then ran past her, following their reluctant leader.

Lex realized that he'd passed Chloe and without thinking slowed his pace holding his hand out behind him to grab it. The last thing he wanted was to lose Chloe on this wild goose chase and dammit, he'd never thought his father could run that fast.

Latching on to Lex's outstretched hand, Chloe ran as fast as she could. The rabbit hole had to be close, mostly because she couldn't run at this pace for much longer. After another minute, Chloe saw another shape in the distance. It was a tree. She watched as the bunny disappeared. She and Lex slowed to a jog as they approached the three. At the base of it was a hole. "So, Lex, shall we go down the proverbial rabbit hole?" Chloe smirked at him as she awaited his answer.

Lex looked at the rabbit hole then up at Chloe. He really wasn't sure if it would be a good idea to jump down there. “Did you ever *read* that story?” Thinking about the possibility of being decapitated by a fat ugly queen was not exactly appealing.

"Yes, Lex," she said, testily, "I have read that story." She took her hand out of his, noticing for the first time that neither of them had let go, and crossed her arms over her chest. She was trying to get her breathing back under control and she was still out of breath. "But, I don't see that we have many options. Our only other choice is to wander around and hope to find some other place that we can crawl or walk through." She shrugged, "But, whatever you want to do is fine by me." She looked at him, waiting for his response.

A. Chloe and Lex wander around, looking for another way in/out
B. Chloe and Lex go down the rabbit hole

[buddyfozzy]

Look for another way out :ohmy:

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: Rabbit hole!!!!

[carebear72884]

If this is like the true adventure stories then you can always start over and make the other choise right?? anyway i vote for the rabbit hole. great story girls.

[Blackberry]

rabbit hole all the way!!!! Oooh i love this sooo much!!! hahahaha

BB

[HisGirlFriday]

Rabbit Hole!!

Lionel as a rabbit is just too funny. :biggrin:

[autumngold]

I guess I'll pick the rabbit hole, but only because Lionel as a bunny is so funny!! Great update!! :chlexsign1:

[LaLa]

RABBIT HOLE!!!--and no, i don't sound at ALL like a lunatic saying that lol :tease:

pret, je t battue! maintenant tu dois dire la m chose ke moi ma kiche! lol mouhahahahahah! ye chouis crouelle!!

:devil: xoxo LaLa

[michelle_19781997]

Rabbit hole.

[hfce]

It might as well be the damn rabbit hole.



Hope ;)

[marrycherry]

RABBIT HOLE!!!!!!

[sylvia]

A! A, damnit!! Didn't you guys ever read Alice in Wonderland? Everything down that hole's freaky and evil!

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: And down the rabbit hole we go. I hope you're happy with your choice *G* Oh and this is skirting the edges between R and NC-17 I think. Have fun. And a little more review than just A or B would be most welcome *g*

A/N: Blue: Down the hatch it is. Another chapter and another tough choice. Have fun with the next choice.....hee....hee...hee....



Lex slid his hands into his pocket, his palm still itching where Chloe's had just touched it. He furrowed his brow at the rabbit hole, then looked around, endless miles of grass and no other opportunity in sight. “We talk to nobody, we don't get anywhere near the castle and if the Cheshire cat shows up we ignore it, deal?” He fixed Chloe in a stern gaze.

One of Chloe’s pet peeves, and she had many, was being talked to as if she were a child. Before flying off the handle, however, she made note of the fact that Lex had used the word ‘we’ not ‘you.’ “Deal,” she said. “Besides all of those teeth scare me.” They sort of reminded her of Clark.

She approached the rabbit hole and scrunched up her face when she realized that it would be a tight squeeze for her to get through. She wondered how Lex was going to manage it. Chloe was also worried that they may lose each other. God knew what awaited them at the bottom of the hole.

When she touched the outside of the hole, it got slightly bigger. Chloe shrugged off the creepy feeling she got and turned around and said, “Lex, come here, I’ve got an idea.”

Lex closed the distance between them in two strides and crouched down next to her, looking down the seemingly bottomless black hole. That didn't look pleasant at all. “Ok, what is it?” He shifted his gaze to Chloe.

Placing her hand on one edge of the hole, she showed Lex that it opened up slightly. “Put your hand on the other side,” she instructed. She could only hope that the hole would open up enough to accommodate them both.

Lex gripped the edge of the hole with both hands and felt it give and expand under his grip until it was about the size of a truck tire. “Now what?”

Chloe kept her eye on the size of the hole when she took one of her hands off of it. It didn’t shrink, thankfully. She said, “Now you give me one of your hands and we jump, slide, whatever through and see what sort of badness is waiting for us down there.” She gave him a small smile as she held out her left hand.

Lex nodded and slowly removed his right hand, taking Chloe's left in a firm grip. “If we hit the ground dead, you're in trouble.” He tried for a small grin and it seemed to work as Chloe's lips twitched in a responding smile.

“Agreed. You can tell me that every day of our afterlife, ok?” She gave him a small wink before turning back to the now gaping hole in the ground. Now, all she had to do was go down there. She found herself frozen for a moment. Then, she closed her eyes and jumped into the darkness. She felt Lex grip her hand tightly. They fell for an extended period of time, again not a surprise, before hitting the ground.

With a grunt of pain, Lex got up from the floor, rubbing his sore hip and straightening his suit back into order. “That wasn't like I remembered from the book.” He helped Chloe to her feet and looked around to find a small door on one side of the stone wall surrounding them. “Well, that is.” Looking back to Chloe, he gave her a quick but thorough once over. “Are you alright?” He started dusting off her skirt/pants whatever without thinking; it just wasn't proper to be all ruffled and dirty like that.

‘I’ll be fine once you stop touching me.’ Thankfully, she hadn’t said the words out loud. Having Lex’s hands on her was too distracting in a pleasant, I shouldn’t be wishing that I wore a skirt so he’d be touching my skin sort of way. Snapping back to attention, she moved slightly away from him. “Yeah, I’m ok. I just landed a little hard.” Her ankle felt a little sore, but it wasn’t terribly painful.

Lex nodded and stepped back from Chloe, giving the collar of her shirt one last brush. “Ok then, let's see what's behind that door.” Pulling it open with a flourish he stepped through. He'd half expected to find himself in some forest on a sandy path, instead the door had led to another room that seemed completely empty, except for a large floor to ceiling mirror on the other end of the wall to his right. He stepped aside to let Chloe enter as well, carefully scanning his surroundings, looking for another door or window, something to get them out of this room.

While Lex was busy searching the room for, Chloe assumed, another way out, she took the liberty of using the mirror. She approached it slowly, waiting for some sort of monster to come out of it. She briefly considered throwing something at it, but thought that they didn’t need any more bad luck. She stepped in front of it and was shocked when she didn’t see her reflection. She saw the room reflected in the glass surface, but not her.

“Maybe here I’m a vampire or something,” she muttered under her breath. So much for trying to make herself more presentable. Chloe was just about to turn away when the surface of the mirror started to shift. It rippled for a few moments, and then she appeared. Sort of. Chloe gasped at what she saw.

The person staring back at Chloe had an obvious smirk on her face at Chloe’s reaction. Chloe continued to gape at the reflection and the grin widened. Her reflection was wearing a deep red colored lipstick that almost matched the shirt, and Chloe used the term lightly, that she was wearing. The scrap of material covered her breasts and not much else and was fastened by thin straps. The leather pants that her reflection wore were so low slung that Chloe was amazed they actually stayed on her body. However, they were tailored to perfection to her curves, her hipbones anchoring them to her body. Chloe could tell that she wasn’t wearing any sort of underwear. “Nice outfit, sugar,” her reflection said back to her, not bothering to veil the sarcasm in her voice.

Lex's head whipped around at Chloe's sarcastic comment towards his outfit. He'd been on the other end of the room, running a hand along the walls to see if there was a hidden mechanism when she'd spoken up from behind his back. His mouth already opening for an indignant retort, his jaw dropped an inch further when he came face to face with Chloe's double inside the mirror. “Whoa,” 'Eloquent, Luthor, very eloquent,' he scolded himself. “Interesting outfit, wouldn't have figured you for the leather type, though.” He smirked at the real Chloe as he stepped closer.

At that time, Chloe would have given anything to have a witty retort. Instead, she kept staring back at her reflection. The other Chloe saw the opening and took it. “Oh, trust me, she,” her reflection pointed at Chloe, “loves leather.” Her reflection ran her hands down her torso and over her hipbones and then they came to rest on her lower belly. “The way it feels, the way it makes her look. Her favorite is leather cuffs.” She winked at Chloe. Chloe felt herself turning beet red but couldn’t stop it. Not able to face Lex, she said, “We’ve got to get out of here.”

Lex's smirk turned into a wolfish grin as he stepped yet closer to the mirror. “Why? It's just getting interesting and since this version of you seems to know a lot, maybe she'd be inclined to give us some useful information.” He turned his smile from the real, very flustered Chloe to the admittedly sexy predator version of the girl in the mirror. “So tell me, do you know anything that could be of use to us in here?” Sliding his hands into his pants pockets once more he gave the 'reflection' an appreciative once over.

Behind his back, Chloe glared at Lex and her reflection laughed throatily at the look. “Actually I do.” She looked around and then leaned forward towards Lex and lowered her voice. “But, what do I get if I tell you?” As she leaned forward even more, one of the straps of her shirt had fallen off of her shoulder. That was enough for Chloe. She wouldn’t allow Lex to get a free show. She spun him around, back to her, trying to ignore the dark look in his eyes and said, “This is obviously a trick. Come on, let’s go.” She turned around and took a few steps. Sighing, she looked back at the mirror and saw that Lex hadn’t moved.

Lex cocked an eyebrow at the girl in the mirror, wondering what the hell she could want. “That depends, what would you want in return?” His gaze locked sharply on the subdued hazel eyes of the mirror Chloe. He wouldn't strike a bargain if it got either himself or the real Chloe in trouble.

“Lex, this is insane. You can’t trust her. I mean, *look* at her.” Chloe had joined Lex at the mirror and gestured to her hoe self.

“Oh, baby, he can trust me,” the reflection said. “I *am* you.” Chloe started to protest but her reflection kept talking. “Somewhere in there, and not too deep down mind you, is where I am. Admit it,” she walked closer to Chloe. “You’d love to be able to wear this and not care what people thought about you. To have men look at you like he is. To have him,” she pointed at Lex, “look at you the way he’s looking at me.”

Chloe couldn’t tear her eyes away. It couldn’t be true, it just couldn’t. Her voice came out strong. “You have no idea what you’re talking about.” She hoped that Lex bought it.

Her reflection rolled her eyes and addressed Lex this time. “I have a simple request. I know that you and Clark are *close*,” Chloe saw Lex’s jaw tighten at her tone of voice, “and you are nice to his friends because of that. However, I think you give some of them too much leeway. The next time that Lana does something mind numbingly stupid at the Talon, I want you to ream her out. In public. Loudly.” She paused and dropped her voice an octave. “I know you want to. It’ll feel so good to do it, Lex.”

Lex chuckled under his breath as his gaze shifted from the mirror to the real Chloe. “Is that really what you think,” he asked her silently. “Jealous, Chloe?”

Chloe could feel that she was about to go Pompeii on Lex’s ass. Of course she thought that he did that. There were numerous times when Lana had fucked up things at the Talon royally and Lex had done nothing about it. She was just about to lay into him when she saw another figure appear in the mirror. ‘Oh, hello there, tiger.’ She thought that the reflection had said the words and then realized that she had just thought them. But, it fit. In addition to a reflection of Chloe, there was now a reflection of Lex.

He wasn’t dressed for a low grade fetish club like her’s was, but the effect was still the same. He had on a pair of well fitting jeans and a button down shirt. The first few buttons were undone, revealing the column of his throat and the top of his smooth chest.

Lex took a step back from the mirror as his own image appeared, walking up behind the leather clad Chloe and casually slipping the strap of her shirt back into place. “She's right though, and you know it.” His double drawled. “And that little remark of yours is going to do nothing but get her mad at you...” He paused as he gave both the real Chloe and the one standing beside him a once over. “But then, that is not something you particularly dislike now, is it?” Lex for the first time in his life got to be on the receiving end of one of his sharp smirks and understood why they worked so well. This was not good.

He affected a casual pose himself and tried to subdue his own emotions as he leveled a sharp gaze on his double. “I think this has gone on long enough. I agree to your terms.” His gaze shifted to the mirror Chloe for a second who was now giving his own double a very suggestive look then back to keep an eye on...himself for lack of a better description.

This had gotten very fascinating. While Chloe had been staring at Lex’s reflection, she had also paid close attention to his words. It had always annoyed her when Lex had purposely pushed her buttons. Now, it seemed, there was an intriguing reason for it.

Her reflection looked at Lex and said, “Oh, you’re making him all mad and clenchy.” She ran her hands up the chest of the Lex in the mirror and then linked them around the back of his neck, shifting her gaze from one Lex to another. “Do it again.” Chloe watched, mesmerized, as her reflection started to press herself flush against mirror Lex.

“Hey,” Chloe stepped towards the mirror. “None of that.” Mostly because it was giving her all sorts of bad thoughts. “He agreed now help us, dammit!”

Lex watched in horrified fascination as his double's hand wandered down the mirror Chloe's back to squeeze and cup her ass, keeping it firmly in hand as he shot a victorious look towards him. This was really not good at all. True the blonde was sexy and true he may have had one or two (dozen) thoughts in that direction, but this was simply too lewd. Not that it wasn't interesting that mirror Chloe didn't seem to object in the least to this manhandling. Lex opened his mouth to speak when he was once again cut off by his double, but the words weren't directed at him. “Mmm you're so sexy when you're mad, did you know that you get that straight line between your eyebrows and that your nose crinkles when you start yelling.” His double pulled the leather clad version of Chloe closer to himself and gave her a leering smile.

“Makes me want to throw you to the next available surface and take you so hard you'll forget your own name.”

Lex closed his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose in mortification. “Fuck,” he hissed. Turning his face to the real Chloe he instantly launched into an apology for the less than respectful behavior of his double. “Chloe I'm sorry you had to hear that, believe me he's obviously just trying to embarrass both of us and doing a tremendous job of it. I really...” Once again he found himself being cut of, this time by the Chloe in the mirror who was reaching freely into his double's open shirt.

“You don’t have to apologize, you fool,” Chloe’s reflection panted out. Chloe watched as she unbuttoned Lex’s shirt and then ran her fingernails over the flesh. Her reflection locked eyes with her. “You wouldn’t complain, would you Chloe? To have him pounding into you from every and all angles until you scream his name.”

Chloe hoped that Lex was too focused on the mirror to notice her heavy breathing. Things got worse when her mirror image started to kiss her way down her Lex’s chest. “You dream about it and wake up unsatisfied. Wondering how you can get it to happen.” Chloe fisted her hands to keep from making any noise when she saw Lex’s mirror image pull her reflection to her feet and kiss her.

Lex gaze rushed back and forth between the real Chloe and the mirror image, unable to decide on which to stay. This was incredible. He'd never have thought the blonde might have a thing for him. Sure they'd worked pretty close together during that time when he'd worked to bring down his father but there'd never been any...well ok there'd been chemistry and the odd lingering look and maybe a little tension but sure that hadn't been anything more than the situation they'd been in and now, what the mirror image of Chloe was saying put things in a completely new perspective and damn if the images in front of him and created in his mind didn't make him hard. His double removed his mouth from the other Chloe's neck and smirked at him.

”Getting a little tight around the seams, isn't it. I don't understand what you're waiting for, it's not like she doesn't want you. Look at her!” He jerked his chin in Chloe's direction and Lex's eyes unwittingly followed the motion. “Chloe?” His voice seemed much lower than normal and Lex cursed himself for his body's reactions as he took in the flustered and mortified look on Chloe's face.

She had to close her eyes, it was the only way to get herself under control. She was so close to just grabbing Lex by his lapels and pulling him to her. If she was honest with herself, she had wanted him for so long that it would be a relief to just give in to what she wanted. She looked over at him and saw that she wasn’t the only one being affected by the scene before them. Her eyes flickered down to Lex’s obvious erection. ‘Natural reaction,’ she rationalized.

Chloe licked her suddenly dry lips and tried to come up with some sort of response to Lex when her double spoke up. Or, cried out, more accurately.

“Lex.” It was something between a moan and a shriek and had she ever made a sound even approaching that? Chloe turned her attention back to the mirror and saw that Lex’s double had slipped his hand under his Chloe’s shirt and was kneading the flesh. He kept his gaze on Chloe, though.

She felt her own nipples tighten in response and Lex’s double chuckled when he saw the reaction. He took his hand off of her body and her double moaned in disappointment. Quickly, he turned her around so that her reflection’s back was pressed against his chest. His hands covered her breasts and her reflection moaned Lex’s name. She opened her eyes and looked at Chloe, “It feels so good. Just give in.” She closed her eyes and started to push back into her Lex. “Oh, god,” Chloe moaned. Right, wrong or depraved, this was turning her on and she couldn’t stop herself from imaging the real Lex touching her like that.

Lex clenched his jaw tight as he couldn't tear his eyes away from their doubles clawing and groping at each other. This was too much, he had to restrain himself physically from reaching out and taking the real Chloe, feeling all the skin that was displayed in front of him for himself. His hands had come out of his pockets to clench into tight fists at his side. His breath coming in short bursts, his nostril flaring. “Come on, Lex. You've always gotten what you wanted, just take it. Take her. She's yours.” His double goaded him, the voice low and silky as the lips moved in a soft caress over the naked shoulder of Chloe's image. Lex's fists clenched tighter at his sides, his nails digging into the flesh of his palm.

In synch with each other, Chloe and Lex locked gazes. They were both breathing heavily. All either of them needed to do was take even one step in the other’s direction. The moaning in the mirror was starting to reach a fever pitch, yet their gazes never wavered.

A. Lex breaks the mirror

B. They give in and get it on.

[asharnanae]

:drool: GAH........ GOD!! that was so HOT!!!!!



And as much as I want it to contiue, my masocistic side says BREAK THE MIRROR!

[hfce]

Oh my I want B!! I want this to continue please... :worship2:


Hope :wub:

[HisGirlFriday]

As much as I want B, I think those doubles are something evil and they should break the mirror.

So A.

[autumngold]

As much as I want Chloe and Lex to mimic what there doubles are doing, I really think they should get out of there. So I guess I'll pick A!! Of course, after they break the mirror they could still give into their desires. . . . :biggrin:

[ColumbiaBlue]

Okay, first, Lionel as the Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland? Fan-fucking-tastic!! I about had a massive cornary from laughing so hard at the mental image of Lionel sticking his hand out and saying"carrot," and then pouting. You guys are awesome.

But, this "Wonderland" Chloe and Lex are in seems to be wonderful for whoooole different reasons than Alice's Wonderland. A dirty, kinky, inner urges, Wonderland.

So. Now for choosing A or B. Decisions, decisions... See, if I pick A and have Lex smash the mirror, there could be some yummy Chlex UST because of it. But then we run the risk of never being presented with the B option again.

If I pick B... Um... What the hell am I saying? B it is. I pick B.

~Manda

[buddyfozzy]

Giving sounds really good right now, but I think Lex should break the mirror, I have a bad feeling about this whole thing.

Great update :wub:

[Queen Of Tact]

WOW that was great!!!!! Love the Lionel Bunny!!!!!!!


Ok , you know you could have made this easier to pick, but oh no not u 2 u have to make this a hard choice, and it's not like I can pick both A & B...

Grrr u are just evil u know that ( but i still love u 2 anyways)

i say A, cause they need to get out of there but I want some B later on...


CC

[sydsvaughn]

Damn it! I hoped to sleep after this and I am denied, now you must make me make a choice.

Did I mention how much I love you two?

And going with the seeming majority, well, despite my intense need for them to 'give in and get it on' ... I think I must choose A, the mirror needs to be broken--and Chlex needs to realize and resolve their UST after a few more 'erotic' encounters in Chlexland. I'm really all for more erotic encounters in this world. Really, I am. Please??

A it must be, despite the smut demon raring to chose B.

SaraC (who is going to have major nightmares about Lionelbunny!)

[sylvia]

See, if it was the two of you perfectly evil ladies in charge of which option it would be, judging from your track record *cough*playinghouse*cough* I'm guessing you would pick A and kill us all with the amazing UST. So, I shall be masochistic and pick A.

Btw, in case you didn't already know, I think this kinky Chlex wonderland idea is beyond brilliant. The mirror was gah.hot!, but I also like how it brought out the wild side of our stubborn protagonists. Of course, nobody's really thinking about the symbolism and all that because it gets a little hard to think when you're reading things like that, but you know what I mean. The annoyed/friendly banter between them is a good humorous touch to all the tension, too.

Update soon!

[vardaquareien]

B, B, B, B!!! Ummm.... did I mention B?

Only just found this guys and it just reinforces the whole "You two are geniuses (or is it genii?)" belief that I have. The entire idea is brilliant! Funhouse and creepy girl was brilliant! The crystal ball scene was so sad and emotional! I love that they each got to share such a personal memory of the other. Really well written. Lionel Bunny was inspired and raunchy mirror is just a dream come true!!! Now that I'm thinking about it...imagine if raunchy mirror Chloe and Lex got their hands on the possessed dolls!!! :satanwink:

Can't wait for more chicas!!! Even though I'm gagging for some of your wonderful smut, so far it looks like the votes going A so I can't wait for some of your wonderful UST aswell!!!

[LaLa]

look if u promise me to write a incredible hot smut scene in the future, i'll take A, but if u don't make my vote a B

xox LaLa

[S.Ann Smith]

:yay2: :yay2: :yay: :yay: B! B! B! B! B!! :yay: :yay: :yay2: :yay2:





And not only because B is for Bunny... love the LionelBunny :blinkkiss:

[Béatrice]

B :blush:

[lexchloe]

Um I vote B.


Can we please refrain from a long contiguous post with the 'B' or any other character. It messes up the tables and makes it difficult to read. Thx. ~Aimee

[marrycherry]

i would looooovee to be b...but i don't trust the doubles..so A

[scifichick774]

*hangs head in shame*

I'm a sucker for plot and as much as I love smut, I'm thinking they need to get the hell away from the obviously evil distractions. So - A.

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: Here's the next one, people. Have fun. Oh and you chose Wisely *g*.

A/N: Blue: It seems as if you all feel that we are trying to do bad things to Chloe and Lex....good call! Here's your next choice....

Chloe couldn’t tear her eyes away from Lex. She had strong feelings for him but that wasn’t what she was thinking about right now. All she could think about was how it would feel to have him inside of her, pounding away until she couldn’t even make a coherent sentence. It didn’t matter that it would ruin any chance of any actual relationship. She wanted him, and she wanted him hard and fast.

She heard her double’s voice. She was panting and her words came out in harsh moans. “Did you know that you gave me my first orgasm, baby? And, you weren’t even there.” Chloe heard Lex’s double groan. “I had to use my own fingers, but it was your face that set me off.” Her double somehow managed a chuckle.

“I’d been thinking of Clark for ages and, even in my fantasies, he just couldn’t get me there.” Her double gasped and Chloe’s breathing increased. What she was saying was true. The tramp in the mirror really was her.

'Holy Shit.' Lex's thoughts didn't go far beyond that as he imagined Chloe pleasuring herself thinking about him. His eyes never strayed from her face as their doubles kept making unmistakable noises. “Show me how you did it, I wanna watch how you touch yourself.” His own voice coming from the direction of the mirror. He took in Chloe's expression, noting that she'd started to bite down hard on her bottom lip.

Chloe heard her double say, “Anything you want, Lex,” and Chloe closed her eyes. She couldn’t look at Lex while this was going on. It was too humiliating. But, she couldn’t look at the mirror either. Especially when she heard the pop of buttons and her double practically shriek Lex’s name. There was no doubt as to what she was doing now. Chloe’s pride took another hit when she realized that she was having a more intimate physical reaction to what her double was doing.

Lex watched as Chloe's eyes slid closed and a tear slipped out from under her lowered lids. This was it. Reflexively his closed fist lashed out as he swung around in a half circle, colliding with the cold surface of the mirror and crashing it. Thin lines zigged out from the contact point and he could hear the crackling sound of the glass splitting before the mirror literally exploded, millions of pieces flying out and shooting towards them like shrapnel. His eyes snapped closed as he raised his arms to cover his face from the impact of an almost tangible wave of pressure that threw them backwards and on the ground.

When Chloe opened her eyes, she saw that the mirror was toast. Lex had decimated the offensive object and show that was taking place in it. She looked at her body, checking for signs of injury. She was avoiding looking at Lex at all costs. Rationally, she knew that she should be bleeding profusely, but she didn’t see any wounds. Biting the bullet, she looked over at Lex. He was slightly rumpled but appeared to be unharmed. Physically, that was.

“You ok?” Her voice came out a little shaky and she cursed herself internally for it. At least she wasn’t thinking of taking him on the hard surface of the floor anymore, though.

Lex brushed a few shards from his clothes as he got up. “Yeah, I'm alright.” Looking at his fist, his face pulled into a frown. There wasn't even a scratch on his skin. “This is weird.” He held his hand out for Chloe to look at it. “There's nothing. And I know for a fact that smashing a mirror usually ends up with raw knuckles and at least three stitches.” He was keeping his mind purposely on the oddness of his uninjured hand, trying to suppress the memory of what he'd seen before the mirror had been a pile of broken glass.

“Definitely odd,” Chloe murmured as she pulled herself quickly to her feet. She knew if she waited any longer, Lex would have helped her up after getting to his feet. She didn’t want any physical contact between them right about now when she could still feel the effects of what their doubles had done coursing through her body. She turned her back to him, glad that he was apparently in no rush to discuss what had just happened and kicked at a few of the shards of glass. They appeared to be real. “Curiouser and curiouser.” Chloe heard music and looked around. After a moment, she realized it was coming from the empty frame of the mirror. Without looking at Lex she said, “Do you hear that?”

Lex nodded, even though Chloe still had her back to him. “Yeah it's..” He trailed off as he turned around towards the empty frame of the mirror. In front of his eyes, lines started to run down from the frame, carving into the wood inside it, one running straight down the middle others seeming to create some sort of paneling, even more lines appeared spreading from the middle line. Liquid metal seeped out of two solid lines that led horizontally from the middle line, congealing and forming into intricate handles. Lex blinked. Where there had been a simple wooden surface in an empty mirror frame, was now a huge closed double door. “Tell me I'm not the only one who just saw that.”

“You’re not the only one,” Chloe said. She had taken a step back when the mirror had begun to change. This was not fun anymore. Chloe liked intrigue and weirdness as much as the next intrepid reporter, but she also didn’t like to be royally fucked with. Even though she knew that they would have to go through the door, it was the only way out of the room, she didn’t want to do it. What if their doubles were waiting for them on the other side? She knew that if Lex hadn’t broken the mirror that they would not be talking now. Yes, they may have been using their vocal chords but she was certain only for groans, moans and grunts. It could just be another trap to get them sidetracked from finding a way out of this place.

He stepped closer to the door, looking over his shoulder back at Chloe. “Come on, let's see what else this damn place has in store for us.” As he saw her hesitating, looking at the door as if it was going to jump and bite them, he sighed. “Chloe, we don't have anywhere else to go, we'll get through this damn...maze...and then if you don't want to, we'll never have to talk about anything that happened in here again, ok?” He reached out his hand towards her once more, willing to ignore everything that had happened in this room, starting that moment.

Chloe hated that she was being the stereotypical girl on numerous levels. Firstly, she was scared to do something and needed Lex to make her be strong. Then, there was the fact that she really didn’t want to talk about what had happened, but some sick part of her needed to talk about what they had just seen and been through. She’d deal with her slight schizophrenia later. For now, she took his hand. Lex opened the door and the music got louder. Chloe stepped through the threshold and looked around. They were now in some type of club, that much was obvious.

Techo music was blaring and the strobe lights were going nuts. Chloe could see various bodies moving against each other and a bar directly in front of them. She scanned the crowd, looking for herself or Lex. She saw no sign of them and let out a breath she hadn’t realized that she had been holding.

The whole scenery was nothing new for Lex, it could have been any of the clubs he'd been to during his 'wild days', or none of them. Tightening his grip on Chloe's hand, he set a steady pace towards the bar, pushing through the seemingly endless crowd of people. Usually the bar was the best place from the ground level to get a look on anything and perhaps he'd be able to spot the exit from there. Pulling Chloe closer he practically shouted into her ear to be heard over the music. “We're going to the bar, see if we can find the exit from there, ok?”

Deciding that trying to talk to him would be futile, Chloe just nodded her head as she continued to look around. Even after what she and Lex had just been through, she couldn’t help but notice the amount of hot men that were surrounding them. She passed a particularly beautiful black man that first smiled and then winked at her. “Love your outfit, sexy.” His voice was low and sensual. Chloe was able to focus on his words after he passed them and she gasped when she looked at what she was wearing. Somehow, her double’s clothes were now pasted onto her body. She looked over at Lex and noticed that the same was true for him.

Lex felt Chloe pause behind him, even though they were almost at the bar. Turning around fully he looked at her already shouting “What is it?!” as his eyes fell on her outfit. His mouth formed a silent oh, before he shook his head. Tugging at her hand he mouthed “Come on”, then turned back around and took the last few steps up to the bar area.

Chloe decided that once she got to the bar, she needed a drink. Maybe it would dull the reality of the situation. Then, she could deal with what was going on. The bar was very busy and Lex let go of her hand, pushing his way to the bar and trying to make room for them there. Chloe felt a hand on her back as another impossibly hot guy made his way past her body. “Sorry,” he said, giving her a smile, “tight quarters.” He had a clipped British accent and Chloe nodded in understanding.

Lex leaned back against the bar as he scanned over the crowd for an exit sign. Most of the frequents seemed to be male and in their early twenties. His eyes came to a dead hold as they snagged on a raven haired head a little way down in the middle of a group of dancing people. The guy turned around and for a moment Lex could clearly see his face. The moment was enough. Clark Kent. A low growl emanated from his throat as his eyes narrowed. The next second he was already three strides away from the bar and on his way to the boy. It didn't matter that he knew for a fact that Clark was virtually indestructible, Lex *would* find a way to hurt him... a lot.

Lex brushed against her as he strode away from the bar. Chloe was confused as to where he was going….until she looked further into the crowd. She saw Clark and realized Lex’s intention. She hurried after him, not caring that she was rudely bumping into numerous bodies in her attempt to keep up with him. Clark was in full club gear, signaling to Chloe that Clark was up to his old, not so nice way. This was not good. This other side of Clark would have no remorse about beating Lex into a bloody pulp. Chloe called after Lex but he ignored her.

He'd finally reached Clark through the crowd, grabbing his shoulder with the right and already pulling back his left arm, fist curled. Lex never got to through the punch. Before he could do anything, Clark had his arm around his waist and pulled him into a crushing hug, an enthusiastic “Lex, babe, I was wondering where you'd been,” shouted against his ear. It knocked the wind out of him and left Lex seriously confused. He started squirming in Clark's grasp, trying to get away from the obviously crazy teen and pull back enough to follow through with his original plan. “Let the fuck go of me,” he seethed through gritted teeth.

Chloe had watched the exchange in confusion. At least Clark’s odd behavior had kept Lex from trying to beat the crap out of Clark…and getting himself hurt in the process. She saw a look of hurt flash over Clark’s face and stepped between the two men. “Hey, Chlo.” Clark ran his eyes over her body. “Looking good.” He leaned down and whispered in her ear, “You have any clue what’s up with him?” He jerked his head in Lex’s direction.

Lex's eyes flashed as he watched Clark getting so close to Chloe and whispering God only knew what into her ear. He jerked roughly on Clark's shoulder and pulled him back around, shooting a patented Luthor glare at the younger boy. “And stay the fuck away from her or I swear I'll find a way to kill you,” he roared loud enough to be heard without having to lean close to be heard over the pounding music.

A small grin came over Clark’s face. “Ah, I get it.” He looked down at Chloe. “I think someone’s feeling a little possessive tonight.” He raked his eyes over Lex and lowered his voice, “Not that I mind.”

With an almost audible click, Chloe finally understood what was going on. The abundance of beautiful men, the way that Clark was acting and looking at Lex. “Oh my god, you’re gay.” She practically shouted the realization at Clark. Then, realizing the familiarity that Clark had shown Lex, she looked back at him and said. “And you’re with Lex.”

Lex's eyes snapped wide open at that as he looked between Clark and Chloe. “What?!” He took another step back from Clark, shoving his anger aside for the time being to put the pieces together. Clark's behavior, his statements, his exuberant greeting. “Oh fuck no!” He snarled low in his throat. This could not be happening. He had no problem with homosexuality, hell his door swung both ways, anyway. But this was *Clark*, the thought alone was just plain wrong and...disturbing to say the least. “Chloe, we're getting out of here, now.” He turned on Clark “You, stay away from us!”

Chloe wasn’t surprised at Lex’s reaction, but she was surprised at Clark’s. He just laughed. “You’re the one who came up to me. Besides,” he fixed Lex with a look, “I thought we were both past the denial part of our relationship.” He looked at Chloe and said, exasperated, “Men!”

Looking back at Lex, she could see a vein pulsing on his forehead. If they didn’t get out of here soon, she was sure his head would explode. But, she had to admit that she found this interesting. Did this mean that a part of Lex really was in love with Clark? It would make some sense, that was for sure.

Lex actually gaped at Clark's words. He'd never even thought about the younger boy in this way. Or had he? Ok there may have been a time *very* early in their friendship when he may have had a crush on Clark, but that had been mostly hero worship and the boy had been way to young, so Lex had cast the idea off and moved on. Since then, so many things had happened, that now the idea seemed completely ridiculous and wrong. “This is a joke, and not even a good one.” He turned away, taking Chloe's hand again. “And *we* are going. Now.”

Clark quickly walked around the two of them so that he was facing Lex again. “Well, that’s not fair.” Looking over at Chloe he lowered his voice as he whispered to Lex. However, Chloe still could make out the words. “You know we agreed that Chloe was off limits.” He paused. “Unless we’re both involved. Hell, it was *your* rule.”

And the hits just kept on coming. Clark’s voice rose again. “Besides, you aren’t attracted to girls, remember? Just a phase, putting a show for the world. Is any of this jogging your memory?” Clark was looking at Lex expectantly.

Again, that fit in with what had happened. Lex being gay would certainly explain away his propensity to marry women that were all wrong for him.

“What the fuck?!” Now this was a heaping pile of steaming bullshit. The worst of it was though, that Chloe looked as if she believed it. “You're not believing this are you? Come on! Yes, I am bi but do you think *me* of all people would put up a show, just for the benefit of a world I couldn't care less about?”

Chloe didn’t want to piss Lex off even more, but she wasn’t about to lie to him. “It would make sense,” she said, slowly, “you do give Clark a lot of leeway. Plus, the women you choose….” She trailed off, knowing that Lex could see where she was going.

Clark patted Lex’s arm patronizingly. “It’s ok. We’ve had this conversation.” He looked over at Chloe. “We both know she’s hot, but you’d just do it, or her,” he winked at Chloe, “for me. And, I appreciate it.”

Lex shook his head, not believing his ears. “What?!” This was unbelievable. “Clark, you are delusional. I am Not in a relationship with you, I am Not interested in you that way and if I decided to take Chloe and fuck her three times into next Sunday it sure as hell wouldn't have ANYTHING to do with you, did that get through your thick skull?!” He swirled around on Chloe. “And you and I will definitely have a talk once I don't have to yell my lungs out to make myself heard.” With another snarl he grabbed her hand and started pulling her away from the small crowd that was watching them now.

Chloe felt herself being dragged by Lex and allowed it to happen. She feared that any response she gave would drive him straight into the deep end. However, Clark didn’t seem to share this belief. She felt her other hand being grasped and Clark easily grabbed her away from Lex.
When Lex whipped back around, Clark said, “I don’t understand what is wrong with you tonight.” Chloe could hear the anger starting to seep into his voice. “I thought that we were past this.” His brow furrowed as he was clearly trying to work through Lex’s actions.

“Unless you’re trying to make me angry at you so *I* leave with Chloe.” He ran his hands down her arms and she shivered at the contact. “Just so you can make me pay for it later.”

Clark lowered his head and whispered in her ear, “I know how much you like to watch.” He looked back at Lex, “You were only with her that one time cause you were drunk…that doesn’t make you bi.”

Chloe’s mind was reeling with the information that Clark was giving her. The her that he was talking about seemed to be more like her double. However, the mirror chick had made no mention of any of this. Chloe didn’t doubt that she would have to make her uncomfortable so it could only mean that this was another side to her. A side that was in some sort of weird triangle with the two men that she was now standing between.

Lex's eyes narrowed until only a thin slit of icy blue showed between his lids. “Let her go. Now.” His voice was even as he enunciated the words clearly over the music that conveniently fell into a pause at that moment. Clark was really pushing it and Lex's anger made a return appearance as his irritation skyrocketed. He thought of the one thing that had always seemed to hurt Clark. Lana's necklace, the glowing green rocks surrounding him as he was crawling on the floor in pain, the tank filled with liquid kryptonite solution, Clark almost unconscious with pain inside. Lex concentrated, thinking of a nice big chunk of it in his pocket as he slid his hand into the pocket of his slacks.

Chloe thought she knew where this was going. She didn’t like the look in Lex’s eyes and saw his hand disappear into one of his pockets. She shrugged off Clark and closed the space between her and Lex. She tried to block Clark from his view, figuring that it would help. “Hey, calm down.” She looked back at Clark who was clearly trying to figure out what was going on. “He wasn’t hurting me and you shouldn’t care about what he’s saying or what I think about it. Getting yourself killed isn’t the way to get us out of here.” She reached out and put a hand on his arm. “We’ll go and just ignore anything he says, ok?”

His jaw was still clenching and Lex had a hard time tearing his gaze away from that insipid boy in front of him, he could feel something starting to take shape inside the loose fist in his pocket. His gaze slowly drifted down and locked on Chloe's. “You have to be incredibly blind or have a very short memory to believe what he is saying.” He gritted out through his teeth. How could Chloe *ever* believe that Clark was saying the truth after she'd just seen for herself what he wanted in the other room.

Ok, this was something that Chloe could work with. She had to curtail her own anger at Lex’s words and tone, but at least he was focusing on her now instead of Clark. “Then, your problem is with me and not him. I’ll be glad to get one of your tongue lashings as soon as we get out of here.” She have some comebacks of her own to his words. Mostly that people had lots of different sides to them and just that he wanted her didn’t exclude him from wanting Clark, too.

Lex gave her a curt nod. Then his gaze went back up to Clark. “I am NOT who you think I am and frankly, I am tired of this conversation, so do me a favor and leave us alone.” With that he turned around and started walking deeper into the crowd, his gaze traveling over the bobbing heads and soon enough finding a bright flashing neon sign blinking the word Exit at them.

Chloe started to follow Lex without another glance at Clark. As they made their way through the crowd Clark called after them. She felt her heart sink when she heard his words.

“Prove it.”

A. They continue to the exit
B. Lex “proves it”

[hfce]

I want A. They need to go. Clark is an ass :tease: Great update by the way. :D


Hope ;)

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: great chappy, but I agree, leave clarks delusional ass behind!!!! GO GO GO!!!

[sydsvaughn]

Um... A, A, A, A, A. Lex doesn't need to prove anything to anyone but Chloe. Trust me, I can live without Clark for the moment. So go for A and get the hell out of there!

SaraC

[buddyfozzy]

Get rid of Clark, head for the exit. Great update!

[LaLa]

well...am i a stupid girl if I want lex to 'prove' it? hmmm...so what? i want chlexy action, sue me! :cool:

:goof: B!

xoxLaLa

[marrycherry]

great update.... sooo option A

[scifichick774]

A

AAAAAAAA

They need to get the hell out of slash world and...well, into the next crazy hell you put them in. Still, anything's got to be better than a pouty and confused Clark hitting on both of them at the same time.

[sylvia]

A. Times a million. They can get it on in the next room, where there preferably will not be deluded teenage aliens trying to hit on them.

[Pufkinz]

I can't beleive that i've never checked into the interactive stories forum before and all due to the ill-conceived notion of what I thought it was... Clearly I was wrong.

Any way, Great fic guys :blinkkiss: :blinkkiss:

I have laught, cringed, held my breathe... but guys the lionel bunny... now that was a hoot....

now as to chlex's current dilema... what should they do, what should they do ... oh oh I know :idea: Make hot mokey love right in front of Clark!!!! Yeah yeah I know damnit that in this twist place that it won't work out like that, but a gal can dream can't she :tease:

A or B, A or B

B

:chlexsign2:

[HisGirlFriday]

A They don't need to prove anything to stupid confused Clark.

[vardaquareien]

Ok so as much as I really want them to 'prove it' just coz I want some hot and heavy Chlexy action, the fact that there seems to be some kind of triangle thing between them here means that whateva they did, it wont prove anything to Clunky anyway so I say A hightail it outta there guys!

BTW loved Lex's reaction to the thought of him and Clunk together and his almost panic when he realised that Chloe believed it!!! :hehe:

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: People, you should know how it works. You can run but you can not hide *g* have fun.

A/N: Blue: See, what's fun about this is sometimes you guys go for the choice that we're almost positive you're *not* going to make. Let's see what you do with this one.

Lex ignored the boy completely, only shooting a fast glance backwards to make sure Chloe was still following him. He didn't have to prove anything, least of all to That boy. Who the hell did Clark think he was anyway?

Lex steadily made his way through the crowd, the metal door under the exit sign coming ever closer until he could finally put his hand on the handlebar. Pressing it down he pushed hard against the door, then shoved it with his shoulder. No use, the damn thing would not budge. Glaring at the offending door, he gave it a swift kick with his foot and whirled around to face Chloe, coming up to him. “It's fucking locked!” He roared over the music that had once again picked up and drowned out most other sound.

Chloe groaned and her shoulders slumped. She turned around, looking for another exit, and saw that Clark had followed them over. Jeez, even in this reality/dimension/whatever the boy couldn’t take a hint. It wasn’t really all that surprising, just annoying. As was the little grin on his face. Chloe’s eyes narrowed and she walked over to the door. She ran her hand over it and noticed that the metal was warped in one spot right by the handle. She turned back around, “What did you do?”

The grin widened and Clark said, “Chlo, it’s not my fault if the doors in this place aren’t up to fire code. Besides, you two got there before I did, so I couldn’t have anything to do with it. Maybe it’s just meant to be that Lex can’t run away from this one.”

That was it. Lex closed his eyes, let go of a deep breath and jerked his head to the right, cracking his neck. When he opened his eyes again, he knew there must have been a deadly calm in them. “You know what? Maybe you're right.” He kept his voice on a normal level, knowing quite well that Clark could still hear him. How blind or ignorant did the boy think he was, anyway? “I think it's time we had this talk. In fact I think it's way past time. I have had enough of your righteous bullshit, and I've had enough of all the times you call me your best friend and then lie directly to my face, giving me sorry ass excuses that a five year old can see through. I am not stupid, Clark. I am not ignorant either. I know who you are and I know *what* you are. And you know what? I didn't care. I still don't. What I care about is that you treated my like shit and insulted me with the same mouth that called me your best friend.”

His glare stayed steady on the green gaze of his former friend as he kept talking, his voice deadpan and void of emotion. “What I care about is that you never even gave me the chance to be the friend I wanted to be and that you deceived me from moment one. I understand being afraid of telling a truth like this, I even understand that you'd have an issue with trusting me, since I am, when it comes down to it, still a Luthor, but what I don't understand, what I will *never* understand, is your goddamn bigoted double standard. Either I am your friend or I am not. Either you trust me, or you don't. But don't fucking string me along, telling me one moment that you trust me and turn around the next to lie in my face, push me away and act as if I was the worst damn villain under the sun when I haven't done anything to threaten you or your family, or your friends.” Clark opened his mouth as if to speak, but Lex wasn't finished.

“I've been your friend and helped you, ever since I came to this godforsaken hicktown. And all I got in return was lies, suspicions, insults and threats as soon as I stepped one foot in the wrong direction or made the smallest mistake, and I'm fed up with it, Clark. I've had it. So do me a favor, take your righteous anger, your double standard morality, your plagiarized platitudes, trademark Jonathan Kent and SHOVE THEM UP YOUR ALIEN ASS!” With that said, he turned around and gave the door another vicious kick, hearing metal creak and break under the impact.

As Lex had spoken to Clark he had moved closer to the boy. Chloe couldn’t make out every word that he said, but she didn’t need to. His body language told her all she needed to know. As did the various looks on Clark’s face. He looked scared and, towards the end, sick by what Lex was saying. She did, however, hear the words ‘shove them up your alien ass’ loud and clear.

She moved away from the door and watched as Lex kicked it open. ‘Must be channeling his rage. He’s lucky he didn’t pop his kneecap.’ That thing had been welded shut not a minute ago. Lex walked through the door and Chloe started to follow him. However, her reporter’s instincts made her pause at the door frame. She looked over the doorknob and noticed that there wasn’t anything wrong with it. Another fact to file away.

Chloe felt someone grab her upper arm and let out an exasperated sigh as she turned back to Clark. Before he could speak, she said, “I think he just broke up with you. Accept it.” She yanked her arm away and walked through the door. Quickly, she turned around and slammed it shut.

Lex’s back was to her and she decided to give him a minute. She looked around and, for once, where they were actually made some sense. They were in an alley and the club was actually behind them. Maybe they were making some progress…or maybe it was another trap.

The night air was cool and Chloe wished she had more than a handkerchief covering her upper body. She could hear various city noises, traffic, the bustle of people walking the streets and music, around them. She peered down the alley and saw yet another club at the end of it.

Lex was still turned away from her. Tentatively, she asked, “You ok?” Because she hadn’t heard what Lex had said, she had no idea what was going on in his head. Caution seemed the best course of action.
Lex hardly gave his surroundings notice as he kept prowling down the sidewalk at a fast pace. It had felt good to finally let it out, but there was still a part of him that knew that This Clark wasn't the real one and therefore the real Clark Kent was still unaware of Lex's knowledge and emotions concerning their friendship and the rather shaky terms it was standing on. He heard Chloe's voice from close behind him and answered without turning around, “I'll be ok, I just hope we're gonna get out of here sooner rather than later. This place is starting to grate on my nerves.” He shortened his strides a little, imagining it would be easier for Chloe to keep up, since she was considerably shorter and had to walk on heels. The seductress outfit was sexy, but definitely not on the practical side. If he'd had a jacket he would have offered it to her already.

Getting the ‘I don’t want to talk about it message’ loud and clear, Chloe let the conversation drop. She started to walk next to Lex and just hoped that whatever situation they found themselves in next would allow her to take off the damn shoes she was wearing. She hadn’t noticed them in the mirror. While the black stilettos looked killer on her, they were also killing her feet.

She heard the door open again and craned her neck, making sure that Clark hadn’t followed them. It was a bunch of drunken men, none of which were Clark. She relaxed and said, “Amen to that. Do you think we’re any closer to getting out of here or do you think we’re just getting in deeper?”

Lex shrugged one shoulder and kept walking, “I have no idea. For all I know we could be walking in circles. I just hope we'll find a clue somewhere. Remember what the girl said. People have been here before and they 'all left her', so that means there has to be a way out of here, but what it is...no idea.” They came onto a larger street and Lex noticed they had to be in some kind of entertainment and tourist district. There were more bars, clubs and even the odd hotel lining up on both sides of the street. Oddly enough, hardly any cars were driving by and only a few yellow cabs were passing. “Are you tired?” He turned his head to look at Chloe.

Chloe nodded at Lex’s statement about their predicament. It would be very helpful if they even had clue one as to how any of the others had gotten out of this funhouse that was anything but fun and not even a house most of the time. But, maybe some rest would help with that one. She hadn’t even considered taking a break to recharge their batteries.

“Yeah,” she answered. “But, the way I’m dressed,” she looked down at her clothes, “if we went into a motel, you’d probably get arrested for solicitation.” She smiled up at him.

Lex shot her an incredulous look. “Who said anything about a motel?” Now not to sound arrogant, he *could* rough it if he absolutely had to, but Lex was still a fan of creature comforts and there was no way he'd rough it if he didn't absolutely have to.

Reaching into his back pocket, he found his wallet, still holding everything that had been in it when he'd entered the fun house in completely different attire. “Let's just hope they really do accept visa everywhere,” he muttered, half to himself, half to Chloe.

Chloe gazed at the little piece of plastic that was now their savior. “Membership does have its privileges.” She was fairly certain that that was the adline for another card but she didn’t care. “So where to, my sugar daddy?” The continued to walk on the street and Chloe rolled her eyes at a group of young men that walked past them, obviously checking her out. She almost said something and then thought better of it. No reason to actually start trouble. Not when it just seemed to find them no matter what they did.

Lex raised an eyebrow at the 'sugar daddy' line, but let it slide. When he caught the group of man staring at Chloe and saw one of them making a lewd gesture out of the corner of his eyes, he stepped closer to her and wrapped and arm around her waist. At her slightly bemused look he shrugged and explained, “What? I'm your sugar daddy, doesn't that mean I get certain privileges in return?”

“Yes,” she said, leaning against his body, “but only after you buy me some pretty, shiny trinket.” Chloe knew that Lex was reacting to the group of young men, clearly trying to send the message that she was off limits. But, that didn’t mean that she couldn’t take advantage of it. She liked being close to him. He smelled good.

“Nice shiny trinket, got it.” They came up to the entrance of a rather large hotel that looked to be somewhat higher standard. Good enough. Gold embroidered letters over the marquise proclaimed it to be 'Le Chateu'. “Come on, let's see if I can get us a room.” One thing was for sure. Separate rooms where out of question. The last thing he wanted was to go looking for Chloe the next morning to find her gone.

They walked into the hotel and Lex went over to the desk clerk as Chloe took in the lobby. She was pleased to see that it was clean and the people wandering around looked like mostly business men. There were quite a few overstuffed chairs for people to sit in around a table filled with newspapers and there was a bar at the other end of the hall. She was getting quite a few strange looks and she willed Lex to hurry up so she could get out of the clothes. ‘Not that you have anything else to change into.’ Yet another thing she’d have to ask her sugar daddy about.

She chuckled at the thought and a man in his forties started to approach her. He was dressed smartly, in an immaculate, obviously expensive suit. Before he got too close, Chloe said, “You couldn’t even afford a conversation with me, keep walking.” The man veered off course and Chloe smiled.

Lex had cleared everything with the clerk and got them a standard double. He'd felt majorly odd when he'd had to ask for the first time if his Visa would be accepted. Luckily, everything had gone over without a hitch and he walked back towards Chloe with the keycard to their room in hand. He caught the last part of her comment as a very chagrined businessman hastily trotted off in the opposite direction and for the first time he thought about what 'message' her clothing could convey in an ambience like this. Shaking his head he turned on his heel and jogged back towards the reception desk.

”Excuse me, but there wouldn't by any chance be a clothes store anywhere near here?” he addressed the friendly smiling clerk once more.

"Yes, sir," Harold responded. He had been caught slightly off guard when Mr. Luthor had approached the desk. Everyone knew who the man was. His surprise had deepened when he saw the woman that he had come in with. Firstly, there were rumors swirling about the company that Mr. Luthor kept. Secondly, Harold thought it odd that Mr. Luthor would be seen anywhere with a woman dressed like that.

If one looked beyond the surface, it was clear that the woman was not a professional. However, she certainly could be misconstrued as one and that certainly did not bode well for the young business magnate.

“We have a boutique just around the corner to your right. Ask for Annette, she’ll be able to help you, sir.”

Lex nodded curtly at the man. “Thanks, I will.” He turned away and hurriedly strode back to Chloe who in the meantime seemed to have had to fight off yet another advance. “Darling, I am profusely sorry. I have no idea how these imbeciles managed to lose all our luggage but be assured, they'll lose their jobs just as fast as soon as I have a word with their executive.” He sugarcoated his tone as he stepped up, laying an arm around Chloe and glaring at another approaching 'suitor'.

She didn’t bother checking the laughter that bubbled up in her throat as the other man turned and ran, tail between his legs. “I think it was the darling that scared him off. Kinda creepy.” She let Lex lead her down the hall but was confused when they passed the elevators. “I’m all for physical activity but if you want to take the stairs, you’ll be carrying me. My feet are about to disown me.”

Lex chuckled. “It was the only endearment I could think of at the moment. Sorry, but you looked two seconds from punching the man in the nose.” He lead her past the staircase and around the corner. “And no, I'm not planning on taking the stairs. I just thought we could both use some clothes that better suit the situation. What good would I do as your sugar daddy if I didn't wrap you in the finest garments...and I can get you that shiny trinket while we're at it.” He smirked as they arrived in front of the polished glass doors. “Here we are.”

Figuring that it was ok to walk through the door because she could actually see the shop on the other side, Chloe winked at Lex as she walked in. “Actually, I’m more of a knee him in the groin type of girl than a puncher. The finest garments part sounds damn fine. The trinket,” she tilted her head, pretending to ponder the decision; “I’m sure can wait for another time.” The clothes were one thing. They needed them, there was no way that Chloe could possibly continue on in them. But, him buying her something that was not necessary was another story.

~~~~

Lex sunk into the recliner with a heavy sigh, closing his eyes for a moment as he listened to the sound of the shower being switched on and water running behind the closed bathroom door. He'd no clue what time it actually was, since his own wrist watch was standing still and there hadn't been a clock anywhere. Letting his gaze drift around the room, he noted that there wasn't even an alarm clock on either of the night stands.

He slowly got up and pulled open the nightstand drawer beside the bed closer to the window. A surprised 'oh' escaped him at what he found inside, followed by a sarcastic smirk. On the standard issue bible lay his holster, the gun safely tucked inside. Now *this* was a surprise. He closed the nightstand again and ambled over to the tv set, picking up the remote control lying next to it.

Flopping onto the bed, Lex turned the tv on, flicking through the channels, not really looking for anything specific.

‘What a difference a shower makes.’ Chloe felt like an actual human being again. All of the copious makeup that had appeared along with the clothes was now washed off of her face. And, it was heaven to not have the stilettos on. She wrapped a fluffy towel around her body and ran her hands through her hair before exiting the bathroom.

She spared a glance at Lex, he was sprawled out on his bed. She sat down on her own bed and said, “Shower’s free.” It was obvious but she felt the need to say something instead of focusing on the fact that she was almost naked in front of Lex.

“Thanks,” he answered as he got up. “Here, entertain yourself while I'm gone.” He threw the remote towards her so it landed neatly beside her on the bed.

Walking back over to the door he grabbed one of the bags perched in front of the closet and looked inside to make sure it held his clothes.

They'd purchased the bare necessities of underwear, socks, pants and shirts and a pair of more comfortable shoes for Chloe.

Taking his bag he made his way into the bathroom, closing the door behind him with a soft snick.

As Lex took a shower, Chloe quickly slipped into the pajamas that they had picked up. Just a pair of shorts and a tank top that had seemed fine at the time. Now, they looked a little too revealing for Chloe’s liking.

Being that they weren’t running for their lives she now had some time to reflect on what had been happening for the past few hours. She didn’t want to dwell on what had *almost* happened between them or what their doubles had to say to them, but it was hard not to.

She tried to distract herself with the tv, but nothing was on. Instead, she flipped the tv off and opened the drawer of the bedside table near her. Not surprisingly, there was a Bible. But, her long forgotten cell phone was also laying there.

Maybe this was all some sort of shared hallucination and she and Lex were laying in the funhouse in a coma together, just waiting for someone to stumble upon them. She tried calling all of the numbers in the phone, but she got no dial tone. She threw the phone on the bed in disgust.

She flopped back down on the bed and closed her eyes. Chloe heard a ringing sound and looked back at the phone, it was lit up and she grabbed it.

“Hello,” she practically yelled.

“Hello?” The voice sounded familiar but she couldn’t place it.

Chloe didn’t know how long the phone would work so she hurried on. “This is Chloe Sullivan. Lex Luthor and I are trapped in the abandoned funhouse on the outskirts of town. We can’t get out and it’s trying to kill us, please send help.”

There was silence and she thought the call had been lost when she heard the voice tell her. “I can’t help you.” The voice paused and Chloe *knew* that she knew the woman, she just couldn’t place the voice. It was annoying her.

“You and Lex are the only ones that can get you out of there.” Chloe heard another muffled voice and the woman then said, “You both have to admit the truth.”

“The truth? What the fuck are you talking about?” Chloe was getting sick of the cryptospeak.

The voice got upset and clipped with her. “Listen, that’s about all I can tell you, I don’t want to fuck something up, ok? This is weird for me, too. You know.” There was yet another pause as the woman spoke with someone else. It was a male, that much Chloe could tell. “I know, I know,” the woman said, talking to whomever she was with. “Fine, I’ll be more specific.”

“The truth about how you *feel* about Lex.”

Chloe pulled the phone away from her ear and gaped at it. “Stop staring at the phone,” the voice said over the line.

Lex felt much better and a lot less disgruntled after a hot shower. He'd changed into plain grey boxer shorts and a white t-shirt before he stepped out of the bathroom. Looking over at Chloe, he saw she was sitting on her bed, frowning at her cell phone as if it had just done something absolutely incredulous.

He stopped short. Her cell phone. Of course! “Did you reach anyone? Can someone get us out of here?” He asked as he walked over to her, settling down next to her on the mattress.

Ignoring Lex for the moment, Chloe put the phone back to her ear. “He’s got to help out, too. I know that he’s impossible, annoying, smug, arrogant…” another pause as she heard the male voice. Chloe took that opportunity to look over at Lex. Yes, he was all of those things. But, it annoyed her that someone else was saying that about him.

“Ok, ok, I’ll get to the point. You have to push him to tell you how he feels, too. It’s the only way out for both of you.” By now, Lex had leaned his ear towards the phone, trying to hear what was going on.

Lex frowned as he heard himself being described by that unknown female. “Whoever this is, they aren’t exactly getting into my good books right now,” he muttered. “And what the hell is she talking about?” he hissed.

Chloe just shook her head at Lex, willing the woman not to mention *her* feelings about Lex while he could hear what she was saying. Chloe heard a growl from the other end of the line and the woman said, “Jeez, we really are infuriating, aren’t we?”

She didn’t know if it was the tone of voice or the annoyance, but Chloe finally placed who it was. ‘It’s me…I’m talking to me.’

Lex's head jerked back as he finally recognized the voice on the other end of the line. “Fuck that's you.” Looking at Chloe who still seemed a little shell shocked, he slipped the cell out of her hand and put it against his own ear. “Chloe? What the hell is going on?”

“Lex,” the other her said, “what is going on is I’m trying to help you two. I’m talking about the fact that you’re both in love with each other.” Chloe heard the male voice hiss something at her, “Well, I don’t care anymore. It’s too hard being all shady. So, you guys should put down the phone and talk about this. Then have some really good sex. Right now. But, I know you won’t, so just watch out for the gremlin.”

The connection was broken and she knew that the other her had hung up on them.

Lex pulled the phone away from his face and stared at it for a second before he pressed the disconnect button. “Gremlin?” His mind had somehow caught on that last very confusing and definitely nonsensical part of the other Chloe's statement. “What the...” He shook his head and put the phone down, getting up to pace the room.

Looking back at Chloe he realized she was chewing on her bottom lip again, staring fixedly at a spot on the floor. “You realize that that makes no sense, whatsoever, right?”

‘Don’t ask, don’t ask, please for the love of god, don’t ask.’ But, she couldn’t help herself. Still unable to meet his gaze, she asked, “Which part?” She didn’t feel like she needed to elaborate on her question. Lex was smart, he’d understand what she meant. She knew that his response would either be a non-answer or a denial that he felt anything past friendship for her. But, some part of her needed to hear that before they moved on.

Lex shook his head incredulously. “Which part? All of it! You talking to yourself, me talking to you on the phone while you sit right next to me.” He shook his head again. “And what for the love of god is 'watch out for the gremlin supposed to mean'?”

Chloe’s shoulders slumped when he said all of it. So, it was another double that just wanted to fuck with her. She was physically and emotionally drained and didn’t know how much more of this conversation she could take without either yelling at Lex or losing her composure completely.

“I have no idea,” she said, tiredly. She pulled her knees to her chest and hugged them as she placed her chin on them. “I don’t care, either.” She was sick of these fucking hoops that they had to jump through. She wished that they would either find their way out or have something finally eat them.

Watching Chloe curl up into a tiny ball on top of her covers, Lex felt a twinge of something uncomfortable in his gut. Blowing ranting at each other sure wouldn't get them out of here and he didn't want to make Chloe feel miserable. “I'm sorry. I'm just... getting really annoyed when I'm stuck in a situation and have no clue how to control it.” He could admit this much, it shouldn't even be news to Chloe after they'd dealt with each other while bringing down his father.

He walked back over to her bed and sat down beside her, placing an arm tentatively over her shoulder. “We'll get out of here, somehow. Ok?”

Chloe shrugged his arm off of her and then stood up, trying to put some distance between the two of them. She needed it to think clearly. Hearing herself tell her that she needed to inform Lex of her feelings made her want to do just that. His reaction, however, had made it clear that it wasn’t a smart thing to do.

She leaned against the wall and closed her eyes, “I wish I could believe that right about now.”

Lex got watched her pace around the room and wasn't sure how to react now. He hoped they could figure something out to get out of here soon. What the other Chloe had said on the phone sounded too clichéd to actually be true, or could it? A knock on the door halted his thoughts and Lex went to answer it without thinking, opening it wide enough to get a good look into the hallway. The empty hallway. Shaking his head he slammed the door back closed, just as he heard Chloe shrieking from behind him. “What?” He spun on a dime to see if she was alright.

From his vantage point, Lex probably couldn’t see the little creature scurry into the room. But, no doubt about it….a gremlin had just run through Lex’s legs. Chloe had jumped onto one of the beds and couldn’t help from screaming. The creature had run under the other bed and Chloe tried to remember the damn three rules.

“It’s under the bed.” When Lex shut the door and walked towards the bed she said, “No, just stay away from it.” He looked up at her as if she had lost her mind and she said, “It’s a fucking gremlin. A Grem-lin.” She stressed each syllable.

Lex frowned. “That's....” He was about to say impossible, but then he remembered that in this place, everything seemed to be possible. “What the hell am I supposed to do, I'm not gonna sleep in a fucking recliner because there's a gremlin under my bed.” He pointed at the bed Chloe wasn't sitting on. “What where the three rules again anyway?” He asked as he walked closer to his bed, determined to shoo the gremlin away.

“Ok, Ok, I can remember this.” Taking a deep breath, she said. “Alright, no feeing after midnight. We don’t have any food in here so that shouldn’t be a problem.” She felt herself getting calmer. They could handle this, they were smarter than a fuzzbucket. “Then, um, no getting them wet. Then, um, then, oh…” She looked over at Lex for a little help.

Lex wracked his brain, the feeding and the water he remembered, but what the hell was the damn third rule again. He always forgot what it was. Something about shades....Oh. “Don't let them get into the sunlight!” Lex flicked his gaze to the window. “No chance of that for the moment.”

“Right,” Chloe said as she pointed at Lex. “So, we’re fine. We just don’t let the little bugger get into the bathroom. We leave him alone and he leaves us alone.” She heard little laughing noises coming from under the bed. And, she couldn’t help it, she smiled. They were damn cute before they went all evil and stuff. Slowly, she sat back down on the bed. “I think we should leave him there. He can’t get all nutso if he just stays put.” Lex glared at her. “Well, do you want to sleep or do you want to get killed by a psychotic gremlin?”

Lex gave her a short glare, then yanked the covers on his bed back with a vengeance. “If this thing jumps me in my sleep, I'll hold you personally responsible.”

As he sat down on the bed he felt the covers getting rumpled behind him and turned around to watch a small brown ball of fur dash out from under the bed and towards the bathroom. “Fuck!” he jumped up and tried to close the door, but by then it was too late, the cute little creature was already sliding on the tiles in a big puddle of water that their earlier showers had left behind.

Chloe ran over next to Lex and watched as the gremlin played in the water. It started to twitch around and made the most horrible noises as its fur started to change colors. She didn’t remember that happening in the movies. But, after a moment, she realized that she wasn’t imagining it. The gremlin had turned pink. He looked at them with its huge brown eyes and seemed to flutter its lashes at them.

A. Fight the Gremlin
B. Run off in their underwear

[sydsvaughn]

Oh dear Lord. You expect me to choose? Hello, I'd love to see them take on the Gremlin (who, if he/she truly turns out to resemble a certain Pink Princess) and kick it's little butt to kingdom come-- yet with the way you two think, that could be worse than running off.

Well, as the great Mother Superior (and later Maria) said in the "Sound of Music" -- you have to face your problems-- so I'm going with A, take on the little bugger and hope he doesn't turn into "Spike" -- (at least, not the Gremiln Spike. The vampire, now that's a different story. :)

SaraC

PS. I suppose it's no coincidence that the MB (or JG) appeared in Gremlins 2, is it?

[vardaquareien]

The gremlin had turned pink. He looked at them with its huge brown eyes and seemed to flutter its lashes at them Ahhhhhh!!!!! It's a nightmare!!! Kick the little bugger's arse!!! *shudders* A BlahnaGremlin *shudders* now THAT is some scary shit!!! When faced with anything remotely Blahnaesk one must always fight!!!

In case you didn't get that, that was an A!

Yet another wonderful chappy! I'm so luvin this guys! I loved the whole SugerDaddy protective!Lex. When they were checkin' in the hotel though I was sure you were gonna go all "Pretty Woman" on us!!! Now if only they could've listened to the Chloe on the phone - my guess is that is was future Chloe who's already been through everything. Right? Then again we can't have them fessin' too soon coz that'd mean they'd get out and the ficcy'd be over so...if that's the case I'm hopin' they don't 'fess for ages!...and if you can understand my ramblings well done! It's after 4am so I'm not the most coherant. Sorry.

[marrycherry]

gremlins...What the hell??

A

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: This is so freaky its cool!!! And A!! Kick the buggers ass and then shoot it!! But just for clarification, didnt gremlins die from sunlight? I know mogwhys hated bright light, but I am pritty sure it killed gremlins. :huh:

anyways, Fantastic!

[buddyfozzy]

A!!!!!!!!! Kick that gremlin's ass!!!

Really great chappie you two :yay: :yay2: :yay:

[ColumbiaBlue]

A pink gremlin that flutters its eyelashes... sounds dangerously like Lana... I pick A! Squash that pink fuzzy motherf-er!!!

[autumngold]

I wish I could pick Chloe and Lex telling each other their true feelings, but since that wasn't a choice I guess I'll pick B. Run away fast, those buggers are mean!! :biggrin: :chlexsign1: :biggrin:

[LaLa]

mmmh....that's a tough one...A! kill that bastard! I always hated gremlins! remind me of my cousins brrr!

now, another motivation if they end up like pinkzilla: FRY THEM!

xoxo LaLa

[sylvia]

Loved the Chlex interaction in the hotel lobby. :biggrin: Lex giving Clark a piece of his mind was great too. And as for the interactive part, I'm assuming the pink thing is Lana, so A.

[hfce]

B they need to run. :lol:


Hope :)

[HisGirlFriday]

A. kick Gremlin Lana's Pink whiny ass!

I got the Pretty Woman feeling in the hotel scene too. loved the suger daddy bit.

I love this wacky, creepy fun house story. :chlexsign1:

[BlueSabby]

Lex cocked his head to the side and looked at the furry creature with a disgusted sneer on his face. “What the...” He didn't get further than that as the gremlin launched itself out of the puddle and at his feet, clinging to his ankles and making cooing noises. It batted its dark lashes over its saucer size brown eyes, looking up at him like he was prince charming or something of the sort.

Lex tried to step back and shake it off, but the gremlin was clinging to him, digging sharp pink nails into his skin, still cooing.

“Fuck, get it off me,” Lex hissed shaking his leg and trying to kick the thing off him.

This was serious. There was a gremlin trying to attack and/or mate with Lex. However, Chloe found herself starting to laugh. The sight of a pink gremlin in heat attached to the all powerful Lex Luthor wasn’t something you saw every day.

Lex, apparently knowing Chloe well enough to know how she would react, glared at her and Chloe was able to keep her laughter under wraps. As Lex kicked his leg again, Chloe heard the thing make a high pitched sound. It reminded of the sounds that little kids made when you pushed them on the swings. Pinky was clearly enjoying her ride.

“I don’t think she wants to hurt you, Lex.” She earned another glare from Lex. When Chloe approached Lex, the thing whipped around and hissed at her, baring its teeth. ‘Ok, no longer funny.’

She took a few steps back and then picked up the brush that Lex had bought her downstairs. She was sure that Pinky wouldn’t appreciate this but the thing needed to learn that you just couldn’t go around humping people’s legs. She threw the brush at the fuzzbucket and struck it square on the back. It yelped and scurried off of Lex.

Lex jumped back as soon as he was free of the creature and lunged for the closest bed, grabbing for the comforter to throw it over the gremlin so they could trap it somehow. He was whipping the sheet around in a wide arch when he heard a pained scream from Chloe, finding her trying to fight off the pink thing that had jumped up and onto her head, tearing on her hair. It was hissing obscenities in a high pitched voice, while Chloe tried valiantly to get it off her. “Shit, Chloe!” Lex grabbed for the gremlin, trying to get a grip on the tiny flailing feet and clawing hands. It wasn't easy with Chloe still batting around wildly with her arms trying to fend off the creature herself.

Chloe could feel the little bitch drawing blood on her scalp. She saw Lex coming towards her and logically knew that she should try to keep still so he could help her. However, logic went out the window when she heard the creature hiss, “Whore,” at her in a high pitched squeal.

One of the pink monster’s hands became tangled in her hair and it stilled for a moment. Chloe, sensing the opportunity, wrapped her hands around its body. She braced herself for the pain and ripped the gremlin off of her head. She hurled it against the wall of the bathroom and it slid down, coming to rest in the bathtub.

She could feel blood dripping down her skull, but she ignored it for now. Lex was still staring at the cute, fuzzy minion from hell as it tried to climb out of the bathtub. Chloe pushed him out of the bathroom and then closed the door behind them.

The thing started to wail. “Everyone always leaves me!” The sobbing reached a fever pitch. “It’s not fair. I’m an orphan again.” Chloe could hear the creature starting to hiccup. She could also hear its nails skating across the bathtub as it tried to get out again.

Lex stared at the closed door, then shook his head. The creatures whining sounded oddly familiar for some reason. He turned his attention on Chloe.

She had small scratches on the side of her face and blood was dripping down her forehead from where the gremlin had ripped out some of her hair and scratched her scalp.

”Damn, it got you good, are you ok?” He gently pushed her backwards to sit down on the mattress. “Let me see if we got something here to fix it.” He turned around, scanning the room to see if there was anything he could use to clean the scratches on her face.

Chloe only vaguely heard what Lex was saying to her. She was focused on the creature in the bathroom that had now begun to throw itself against the door. Even though it was tiny, it packed a wallop and the door moved every time she hit it.

“Lex!” Thunk. “You should love me.” Thunk. “I’m so pretty.” Bang.

Chloe couldn’t believe that it was still trying to get at Lex. I mean, didn’t she understand that he didn’t want her. How could any man stand that much pink? Something tickled at the back of her brain, but Chloe ignored it.

When Chloe saw the door begin to crack she got up off of the bed and went back to one of the nightstands. She pawed through the drawer and found what she was looking for.

Lex tried to ignore the creature as he kept searching for something to treat Chloe with. He finally snatched one of the plain white shirts he'd gotten and turned around to find Chloe rummaging in a nightstand at the same time he heard a wooden crack coming from the bathroom door. “What are you doing?” Another, louder crack came from the bathroom door as the creature behind it kept wailing loudly.

“Looking for,” she continued searching the drawer. She found her wallet, a pack of gum and…there it was. “This,” she said, holding her flashlight up in triumph. “I think that she’s not going to take no as answer. Desperate times,” she said, shrugging one shoulder.

Lex frowned as he tried to understand what she was planning to do with the flashlight. “Don't you think beating that thing to death is a little...primitive?” He kept glancing back and forth between the closed, but already seriously damaged bathroom door and Chloe as she walked up to him. Not that he hadn't thought of that option himself, but still it sounded a little barbaric.

While a little bit of the ultraviolence appealed to Chloe right about now, that wasn’t what she had planned. “I’m not going to beat her to death. We’re going to hold her down and shove the bright light down her throat. Hopefully, it’ll burn her to death from the inside out.”

The rules seemed to be a little warped here. The water hadn’t caused her to multiply, just to go bad. So, maybe sunlight wasn’t the only kind of light that would kill her. It was worth a shot.

“Ah.” Lex nodded. It was worth a shot. Talking about shot. “Wait, I have a better idea.” He hurried to his nightstand an pulled the gun out, checking the clip and unlocking the safety before he turned back to Chloe, gun in hand. “Bullets will work, right?” He cocked the hammer and aimed low at the door.

Deciding not to ask Lex why he had a gun, Chloe said. “I don’t think that will work.” Guns made her a little uncomfortable but she knew that Lex needed to do something so she added, “You can try, though.”

They approached the door and Chloe flung it open. By now, Pinky had given up on the door and was instead crying. She was sitting on top of the toilet seat and using the toilet paper as tissues. Her head snapped up and joy filled her eyes when she saw Lex, they narrowed again when she saw Chloe standing next to him.

Lex shoved aside the twinge in his gut as he saw the little creature bawling its eyes out and snorting loudly into a wad of toilet paper. Narrowing his eyes, he trained the gun on the annoying thing and pulled the trigger. His eyes widened as he could actually see the bullet, slowing down into slow motion and coming to a complete halt less than a foot away from the creature and dropping uselessly to the floor as the gremlin had it's big shocked eyes trained on Lex, lower lip trembling. “You wanted to kill me,” it whispered pathetically. Lex flinched.

Chloe saw Lex’s reaction to the creature’s words. She couldn’t believe it. Lex was actually falling for the bullshit that the thing was spouting forth. Just like he did with… Again, something in Chloe’s brain clicked. She now knew why this thing before them seemed so familiar. Yes, it was a monster gremlin. But, it was also obviously Lana.

She was finally starting to understand what was going on. This place was evidently somehow keyed in to their thoughts and feelings and was playing on it. Chloe didn’t think that killing the Gremlin Lana was what this place had in mind for them. That wasn’t the way out of this situation.

Stepping in front of Lex, Chloe said, “You tried to claw my eyes out, why wouldn’t you expect some type of retaliation?” The thing continued to glare at her, but didn’t move. “You can’t just expect people to fall under your spell and obey your every whim just because you have some idea in your head that you’re entitled to it.”

Lex lowered his gun and looked from the creature back to Chloe. She was glaring at the gremlin now and her tone was harsh as she lectured it. He took a step back, seeing that the pink thing had focused its attention solely on Chloe now. Lex decided to keep a close eye on it and let her handle the situation for now. The blood had crusted on her face and Lex could actually watch the scratch wounds closing.

Taking another step forward, Chloe soon forgot about Lex being in the room. “You just go around expecting everyone to defer to you because you had something horrible happen in your life. Take a fucking number. Life is pain. Most of us deal with it and move on. But, not you. You bring it up every chance you get milking the pity for all it’s worth.” This felt good. Chloe didn’t hate Lana, she just couldn’t stand the way that the girl worked.

“You treat everyone like they were put on this earth to serve you.” Chloe could remember every time that Lana had just expected her to dump something that she was doing in order to help her.

“You don’t care if they are having problems, that don’t concern you.” She remembered every time that she listened to one of Lana’s stupid problems while trying not to scream at the girl that Chloe’s own life was complicated.

Chloe walked towards the pink gremlin. She kneeled down and looked it square in the eyes. “You are *not* the center of the universe. Not every man wants you. Not everyone likes you. Get. Over. Yourself.”

She expected the thing to hurl itself at her but it just sat there, blinking.

“But, but, I’m cute and fuzzy…He should want me. He should want to die and kill for me.” The Lana gremlin sounded very confused and Chloe sighed. It was never going to understand. But, Chloe didn’t think that was the point in this exercise.

Her suspicions were confirmed when the pink thing started to disappear. She looked back up at Chloe and said, “But, I always win. My parents are dead.”

After that, the gremlin disappeared and Chloe let out a deep breath. She put the flashlight on the counter and ran a hand through her hair. She blinked a few times when she realized it should have hurt. Looking in the mirror, she saw that her injuries had healed themselves. “Weird,” she murmured.

Lex took his eyes from the now empty spot where the gremlin had been and stepped up behind Chloe, inspecting the dried smears of blood on her flawless skin. “Definitely,” he murmured. “I'm gonna go let you wash up.” He turned around to leave, noting that the door was smooth and unmarked, as well. Shaking it off, he kept walking. “I'm gonna call room service, anything special you want to eat?” He looked back over his shoulder.

“No,” Chloe said, distantly. She was still searching herself for signs of her tussle with the furball. “Unless they have a trough full of sedatives, just order me whatever you’re having.”

Lex nodded and closed the bathroom door behind him. He walked over to the nightstand and picked up the phone, dialing the extension for room service printed on a list above the keys. “Room 742, yeah I'd like to order some sandwiches, pepperoni and cheese. Tomatoes, with mayo, yes. ... Yes, two bottles of water and two cans of coke.....Yeah thanks. Listen, you wouldn't have some aspirin or something?... Tylenol is great, thank you. ... Fifteen minutes, ok.”

Chloe’s stomach had rumbled at the mention of food, but she doubted that she’d be awake when it got there. She was totally drained. After the day that they had had, she was amazed that she hadn’t passed out yet. The adrenaline was draining from her body, leaving her listless.

She climbed into her bed, her back to Lex and let out a moan as she stretched. She closed her eyes and sighed. They needed to talk about a plan of attack. Instead, she said, “I guess the other me was right about the gremlin?”

Lex shut off the tv that didn't show anything worth watching and lay down on his side, turned towards Chloe. He propped his head up on one hand as he contemplated the weird phone call that he'd all but forgotten. “Yeah, she was.”

The conversation had barely made any sense to him though. A future version of Chloe, telling them to 'admit their feelings' to get out of this place.

Lex wasn't even sure exactly *what* his feelings towards Chloe were. That he was attracted to her wasn't the question. He'd known that before and wouldn't have needed those dubious doubles in the mirror to bring the point home. One thing spoke for that little incident, though. At least now he knew that Chloe felt that physical attraction as well. On top of that he'd gotten to see a side of Chloe Sullivan that he hadn't even suspected existed. Compared to the way the mirror image had behaved, her walk on the wild side a few years earlier had seemed rather tame. A smirk crawled across Lex's face as he remembered the way she'd looked at him in the Kent barn, having the cheek to suggest he get a toupee. “Did the other things she said make any sense to you?”

Chloe could feel Lex staring at her and she turned around to face him, her body mirroring his position. Knowing what he was asking, Chloe decided to stall for a bit. “The part about you being impossible and arrogant rang some bells with me.” She gave him a small smile to let him know that she wasn’t terribly serious about the whole thing.

She knew that she had feelings for Lex. Chloe just wasn’t sure if she was ready to admit that she was in love with him. She didn’t know if she could deal with the complications of wanting someone that didn’t want her back. Again. However, if she really did believe that it was herself that she had talked to before, and she did, she would have to admit her feelings. Not just to herself. But, to Lex, too. It was the way to get them out of here.

Lex actually snorted. “Well, I'm sure my double would have had to say a couple of things about your lesser qualities, too.” He arched an eyebrow as Chloe 'hmpfed' to his comment. “But seriously. Does it make sense to you? The part about admitting our feelings?” Lex wasn't too keen on having this discussion. Still, he knew they'd have to have it at some point and now was as good a time as it could get. While they were not being attacked and waiting for the room service. He found that sometimes conversation helped him to work through his thoughts.

Chloe was shocked that Lex had thrown in the word ‘our’ instead of making it just about her. It would be a good tactical maneuver that would keep his own feelings out of the discussion. Chloe sat up and crossed her legs Indian style (please forgive the author’s politically incorrect use of the word Indian) and looked directly at Lex. “Well, I don’t see why she would lie about that. Whether or not I believe that talking about our feelings will actually get us out of here….” Chloe trailed off. She didn’t know why her other self would make them do that if it didn’t actually help. But, she was still a little gunshy about having the actual discussion. Especially if it entailed her pouring out her heart to Lex and being rebuffed by him.

“Hmm,” Lex nodded. “Yeah, I'm not so sure about that either. But you gotta give this place one thing. It sure as hell is an inventive method of therapy.” Because if it was all about their feelings that obviously was what it was. Therapy. So why the hell not. Maybe it wasn't even so much just about their feelings towards each other, but about their emotions in general. “This kind of reminds me of anger management. But it sure as hell isn't anywhere near as boring.” He smirked. At that moment, a knock sounded at the door.

Lex got up and walked over to the door, this time opening it no more than a small crack until he had assured himself that it was only the room service. He opened the door wider to let the boy in. He was rolling a small cloth covered cart, carrying a silver tray with sandwiches, two cans of soda and two large bottles of water on it. On a smaller plate beside it lay a package of Tylenol.

“Thanks.” Lex handed the man a twenty from his wallet and showed him out.

Lex walked back over to the beds with the plates and handed one to Chloe. Her stomach rumbled and she picked up the sandwich and started munching on it. She considered what Lex said and nodded. “Though, I think a therapist would get disbarred or whatever if they tried to kill you time and time again.” She held out her hand and Lex handed her a bottle of water. “Then again, it might get you to be more honest with them.”

Lex shrugged a shoulder, chewing on his own bite of sandwich. He flushed it down with a swig of water before he answered. “Technically, none of those things have tried to kill us yet. And it doesn't seem like any injuries we get here are permanent either. I mean, take your face, for instance. Or what about my knuckles?” He leaned back against the headboard and took another bite. The sandwich was actually quite good. Lex hadn't realized how hungry he was until he'd actually smelled the food in front of him.

Chloe nodded as she finished half of the sandwich. It was true, they didn’t have any physical signs of trauma but Chloe didn’t doubt that they *could* get seriously hurt in this place. They’d just have to avoid situations like this. And try to get the hell out as soon as possible.

After finishing her water, Chloe got up and put her plate back on the tray. “That’s true. However, if one of us is decapitated, I doubt our head will grow back.” She padded over to the bathroom and started to brush her teeth. The discussion of their feelings could wait, now she needed some sleep.

Lex put his empty plate aside and moved the cart into the corner of the room. He waited until Chloe had finished in the bathroom, then went to brush his teeth.

When he came back into the room, Chloe had already settled back into bed and turned off the lamp beside her. Lex got comfortable and turned out the light. "Good night, Chloe." He folded his hands behind his head and stared through the dark at the ceiling above him. Night had always been the time for him to mull over everything that happened to him during the day before he finally fell asleep. That's why he was used to working a full day with only a few hours of sleep.

“Night, Lex,” she murmured. While she was about five minutes away from passing out, she doubted that the same could be said of Lex. He would most likely go through all of the events of the day and have some strategy for them to follow in the morning. That was fine. She didn’t have the heart to tell him that whatever plan they came up with wouldn’t work. This place made its own rules and they had to abide by them.

~~~~~~
When Lex woke up it was still early in the morning. At least if the grey/blue light filtering in from the window was anything to judge by. He got out of the bed and looked over at Chloe.

She was still sleeping, burrowed so far under the comforter that only a small shock of blonde hair peaked out from under the covers.

He walked over to the bags as silently as possible and pulled out a change of clothes. He'd stick with the blue jeans, since they were actually quite comfortable, but decided on a simple blue cotton shirt, instead of the silk number he'd had to wear the night before.

Checking to see if Chloe was still asleep, he smirked when he heard her snuffling into the pillow as she buried her face deeper under the covers. He silently went into the bathroom and closed the door behind him.
Facing his reflection in the mirror, he had to admit that he looked like shit. He hadn't gotten much sleep the last night, mulling over everything that had happened, trying to make sense of the purpose of this world and on top of that wrecking his brain, trying to develop a plan to get them out of here.

Lex still wasn't any closer to figuring out exactly what his feelings towards Chloe were. Oh he could name a quite a few different emotions when it came to the blonde spitfire currently sleeping in the next room, but what they all added up to, Lex wasn't sure.

He splashed water on his face and tried to clear his thoughts. At least he'd come up with somewhat of a plan before he'd finally fallen asleep. If this place really was like some kind of twisted therapy, then maybe they could get to the bottom of things, and hopefully the hell out of dodge, if they started talking to each other about their emotions.

Much as the idea irked him, he didn't see any alternative at the moment. Resigning himself to that fact, Lex turned on the shower and undressed, resigning himself to a day full of conversation about all the things he usually kept inside.

The sound of the shower brought Chloe fully awake. She didn’t know what time it was, specifically, but it felt rather early. Looking over at the window, she could see that the sun still wasn’t fully out. She surmised that it was probably late for Lex to be getting up but not for her. Being that they had to fend off numerous freaks yesterday, she thought she deserved a little more sleep. Then again, the sooner they got up, the sooner they could get out of this place.

Chloe stretched as she got out of the bed. She walked over to the window and was happy to see that everything looked as it had yesterday. She ordered them some breakfast and then sat back down on her bed, waiting for her turn in the bathroom.

While she had often wondered what Lex was thinking in the past, she had never been so curious as she was now. If she looked at what her other doubles had implied, Lex not only wanted her, but he had feelings for her. She could believe the former much more than the latter.

Knowing that going over every conversation or meeting that they had had to look for hidden meanings in Lex’s actions would only drive her around the bend, Chloe looked around the room for the remote. She found it on Lex’s nightstand and flipped on the tv as she flopped down on his bed. The door to the bathroom opened and she kept her attention on the morning news as she said, “Morning, Lex.”

“Morning.”

Chloe was lying on her stomach, keeping her eyes rooted to the tv as she flipped channels at lightning speed. Lex sat down next to her, rubbing his fingers over his closed eyelids, trying to stop the itching that he always got after a night of too little sleep. “Did you order coffee yet?”

Craning her neck to look up at him, she said, “Yes, it should be here soon.” She took in his appearance. He didn’t look as put together as he usually did. At least she knew that this place was getting to him, as well. However, the casual gear was working well on him. “I like your ensemble.” She grinned up at him.

He smirked, leaning back on his elbows. “Thanks, you wanna get ready before the room service is here?” He nudged her hip to make her move a little so he could get comfortable on the bed. “I don't plan on spending any more time here than necessary and I think I have a plan.”

Chloe eyed him warily. “Plan?” He nodded and continued smirking at her. “Ok, you can tell me all about it after I shower and have officially woken up.” She rolled away from Lex and off of the bed, landing on her feet. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.” She took a pair of jeans and a black t-shirt out of the bag, along with her unmentionables, and went into the bathroom.

She quickly disrobed and jumped into the shower, just first to make sure there wasn’t a pink furball anywhere waiting to spring on her. She hurried through her usual routine, eager to see what sort of ‘plan’ Lex had come up with.

Lex had just gotten comfortable on the bed, when room service knocked on the door. He let the man in and ignored the food in favor of coffee. He wasn't a big breakfast person anyway.

He'd barely taken the first sip when Chloe came out of the bathroom, rubbing her wet hair furiously with a towel as she walked blindly towards him. “Coffee's here.”

Nodding, Chloe picked up a mug and filled it. After taking a few hits, she looked over at Lex. “Ok, regale me with this plan that you speak of. I’m hoping it’s brilliant and will lead us home in record time. I don’t know if I can live through anymore psychotic furry pseudoanimals that we know.”

She leaned against the headboard of her bed and looked over at Lex, waiting for whatever he had figured out. She really did hope that he had come up with something good.

Lex moved over to the recliner and sunk into the ugly blue thing, nursing his coffee. “I don't know if it will get us out of here in record time, but at least it's worth a try.” Chloe nodded and motioned for him to go on while she got herself another cup of coffee from the tray. “See, if this place is really a warped kind of therapy and it's all about our feelings, maybe it will help if we talk about them. Try to work them out.” Since his plan still sounded logical spoken out loud, he went on. “Remember in that other room, when you touched that crystal ball? We both got sucked into a memory, and not the most pleasant one at that. So what if we try to talk about things like that, get to know each other, maybe that's what your future self meant with admitting our feelings.” He shrugged and took another sip of his coffee, waiting for Chloe's response.

Of course he wouldn't just go and lay *all* his feelings bare in front of her, but maybe that wasn't even required to get them out, maybe some simple divulging of their imminent emotional problems would be enough.

It seemed like a perfectly logical and reasonable plan. Plus, it was a good starting place. First talking out what they had both seen and then moving on to their feelings for each other. Even though the other her had informed them that they would have to discuss that, maybe just letting each other in to one of their darkest time would suffice.

Chloe nodded, “Sounds like a good plan.”

~~~~
They'd been walking down this very same, very straight street for the last half hour. The first few minutes of their walk, they'd spent trying to find a good way to start the conversation, getting the other to spill first. In the end they'd just somehow fallen into the talk, and Lex wasn't even sure which of them had started first after all. “So the thing you were most afraid of before you came to Smallville was the crossing guard?” He chuckled. “It's hard to believe that after the things I've seen you deal with, including my father.”

Chloe shrugged. “Well, she was always yelling and pushing and pulling on us. Now, I understand that she was making sure that we didn’t end up roadkill. But, back then, all I saw was some shrieking adult.” She shook her head, remembering how freaked out she’d get once she could actually see the woman in the distance as she walked to school. Her stomach would turn in knots and her mouth would dry up.

She appreciated that Lex had started out slowly. Not just barreling ahead and asking what had happened with Clark. Or, more accurately, how it had affected her. “Once I moved to Smallville, I quickly realized that there were greater things to fear. I’m a quick learner.”

Lex smirked, letting his eyes drift back ahead, still scanning for anything that looked like a way out. “I never doubted that. Have I ever told you how impressed I was during our first interview?” He glanced back at her. “Before you managed to get thrown out of my window for snooping, that is.”

Chloe almost stopped in her tracks. Lex didn’t often give compliments. Besides, she would have assumed that he was more annoyed, than impressed, with her after their first meeting. “No,” she answered honestly. “I didn’t really think that you gave me much thought. Other than the fact that I forced you to get a window replaced.” Unable to stop herself she said, “And I prefer the term ‘investigating.’”

Lex tried to fight the smile on his face as Chloe actually faltered in her stride at his compliment. “Of course.” It made him frown though when she told him she didn't give him enough credit to care about someone who'd gotten hurt in his own home. “Why would you think I didn't care? You were in my house when it happened. And if that wasn't enough, at the time you were the best friend of someone I considered my friend. I felt bad for letting something happen in my own home. Didn't you get the flowers I let my secretary send you?” As soon as the sentence was out, he felt like an idiot. 'Yeah, great way to show you care, have your secretary send flowers. His inner voice scoffed. 'Well I did go after those people and make sure they were punished for what they did.'

Looking over at his slightly confused face, Chloe clarified her statement. “I didn’t think that you didn’t give a damn at all.” She shrugged as she smiled at a woman that passed them on the street. Then, she remembered that it was best that they didn’t make any kind of contact with other people. “Obviously you cared that someone had been hurt in your house. I just didn’t think that the flowers were anything more than a perfunctory gesture to show your regret and well wishes to a speedy recovery. Of course I got them, and they were hard to miss in my room. She must have gotten the biggest arrangement they had.”

Chloe decided that this was the opening she needed to bring in the elephant that they were both dancing around. “Though, I did think that your concern had more to do with setting things right with Clark than with me.” She spared a glance over at him, knowing that he wouldn’t be pleased. She thought it was true. If another reporter had sustained the same injuries, one that hadn’t been best friends with Lex’s friend, she didn’t think he would have given such personal attention to the men that had perpetrated the crime.

Lex thought about her statement before he answered. He never hadn't given much thought to why he was feeling bad about what had happened at the time. “I don't know. It would depend on the reporter, I guess. Like I said you impressed me. With your questions and of course I'd never expected you to actually be able to recognize my quote and be able to tell me who it was from. I think my reaction wouldn't have been much different if Clark hadn't been in the picture. Of course, I may have tried to seduce you if you had been a little older.” He grinned lasciviously in her direction.

Chloe tried to digest this new tidbit of information. She knew that Lex was joking with her, but she could also see that he was testing the water for her reaction to that. She chuckled, imaging Lex trying to seduce her as she filmed it. “Maybe that would have been better, that way, I could have showed Clark the tape and he could have had a guide to use instead of…” she stopped talking, realizing that she had just opened the proverbial can of worms.

Lex turned fully towards her, slowing his steps. “I'm sorry for what he did to you. We don't have to talk about it if you don't want to. I...” he paused, not sure how to say it. “When that thing with the crystal happened, I got pretty much I first hand experience on what happened.”

“No,” Chloe said. She stopped at looked at Lex. “We agreed to talk about it. I think that it’s important for getting out of here.”

A gruff voice said, “It’s really not. It won’t do anything. You two will be trapped here forever.” Chloe whipped her head around and groaned. A moment ago, the street had stretched on before them. Now, there was a brick wall directly in front of them. Even though it was disconcerting, she didn’t give it a second thought that the voice that had spoken to them belonged to a door.

“He’s a liar, don’t listen to him.” Chloe saw that there was another door that was now talking to him. She pinched the bridge of her nose and looked over at Lex. “Great, just what we need now.”

“Let me guess,” she said, sighing, “one of you always tells the truth and one of you always lies.” The doors grumbled in agreement of her statement and then started spouting out how it was the one that told the truth and its mate was the liar.

Just when she and Lex had started to make some headway….this stank. She knew that they’d have to take one of the doors, but she wanted to delay it. Even though it was upsetting, she wanted to tell Lex about what had happened with Clark. She hadn’t been able to tell *anyone* and it would feel good to finally get it out in the open. But, no, this damn place was throwing up yet another gauntlet.

Lex glared at the doors, trying to figure out what now. He had the feeling Chloe had wanted to talk more about her incident with Clark. He could understand that it would be somewhat relieving for her to have someone she could talk to about it and on top of that someone who'd literally been through the same. “Shut up!” He yelled at the doors who wouldn't stop talking to each other and to them. He turned back to Chloe who was obviously beyond frustrated. “Listen, I don't know what's on the other side of those doors, but whatever it is, just because we're being interrupted doesn't mean we'll just drop this conversation, ok?” He laid a comforting hand on her shoulder, lightly rubbing her arm. “You want me to deal with these doors? Or just pick one and see what happens?”

“Just pick a damn door,” Chloe said, glaring at the doors. “They will only spout nonsense at us and make us more confused.”

“Pick me, I’m the way out,” one of them said.

The other, not to be outdone, said, “He’s lying. Neither of us lead out, but what’s behind me is more pleasant than what’s behind him.”

Chloe said to Lex. “So, Door Number One,” she pointed at the door that promised the way out, “Or Door Number Two?”

A. Door Number One
B. Door Number Two

[BlueSabby]

Chloe watched as Lex slipped his hands into his pockets and regarded the doors. A small smile appeared on his lips. Even though he was out of regulation Lex gear, his old habits translated to the new clothes. It was comforting to know. He shrugged one shoulder and then jerked his chin in the direction of the second door.

“Oh, you’ll die back there,” Door Number One muttered. “Very bad choice, pain, anguish, humiliation, degradation. I’ll got hearts, flowers and daisies back here.”

Chloe looked at Door Number One, shaking her head. “You’re very bad at this. No one is ever going to pick you.”

There was a silence and then Door Number One said, “It’s my first day.”

Not focusing on the fact that she was having a conversation with a *door*, Chloe said, “It shows.”

Lex opened the other door for her and Chloe stepped through….and immediately began to fall through the air.

Lex shook his head as he gave the other door one last look before he stepped through the threshold himself, immediately being hauled upwards into the air, surrounded by complete darkness.

He landed on his backside with a heavy thud, groaning as his head made contact with what felt like a solid wall behind him. As his vision cleared again, he found himself on the top of a long, apparently free standing flight of stairs, going down. But more importantly, he was alone. 'Fuck!' “CHLOE!!”

When she heard her name being called, Chloe raised her head. She had landed in a heap, cracking her elbow against what felt like stone. She looked to her left and then her right. When she saw that Lex wasn’t next to her, she sighed. But, she wasn’t that astonished by the turn of events.

She pulled herself to her feet and brushed off her clothing….that had changed again. Looking around, her surroundings appeared familiar to her. She heard her name being called and yelled, “I’m alright Lex,” as loud as she could, hoping that he could hear her.

There were numerous staircases surrounding her. Many of which were defying the laws of gravity and physics. It was like the old Escher lithograph that was so popular. “Lex, keep talking to me,” she screamed as she went up one of the staircases.

He breathed a sigh of relief as he heard Chloe's voice echoing towards him from somewhere below. Looking around he found more flights of stairs, some going up, some down. Everywhere he looked stairways, left right and center, some upside down, others right side up. He raised his gaze to the ceiling. More stairs. Great, they'd landed in an Escher painting. Lex groaned. “I'm gonna try to come down there, hold on,” he yelled downwards as he descended the first flight of stairs that led him to another one going halfway up and to the right. “Are you ok?” He kept walking at a brisk pace, trying to figure out which stairs he had to take to get closer to Chloe.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Chloe yelled. She was trying to follow the sound of Lex’s voice, but it was difficult. She was certain that this place was trying to play tricks on her. When she tried to double back, one of the staircases she had just used had disappeared. She caught sight of something moving to her right and turned in that direction. “Oh. My. God.”

Another reason why this looked so familiar hit her and Chloe looked down at her outfit. Her suspicions were confirmed when she noticed that she had long, dark hair. Looking back at Lex, she knew that she should call out to him, but she just took in the sight of him one last time. She didn’t think he’d like her staring at him as they tried to get out of this place.
Firstly, Lex was wearing a pair of black tights. He wore them well, as he seemed to every type of clothing, but it was still strange to see him in them. Instead of his trademark silk purple shirt, he wore a deep maroon one. It stood out in contrast to the black vest, boots and gloves that he also wore.

Then, there was the hair. It was about as long as hers and a pale color. Being that she knew he used to have bright red hair, it seemed not to fit on him. However, Chloe doubted that he had noticed that yet. He was most likely preoccupied with finding her.

Then, there was the fact that he was wearing eye makeup. She wouldn’t be shocked if it wasn’t his first time with that, but she could only imagine the horror that he would feel if he caught a glimpse of himself in a mirror. She hoped that there weren’t very many reflective surfaces around here.

Before he could disappear from her view, Chloe yelled, “Over here, Lex.”

Lex made his way down another set of stairs, blowing a strand of hair out of his face that kept falling into his eyes.

He stopped dead.

Hair?

Touching his head, he found a full mane of hair falling down to past his shoulders. Pulling a long strand of it forwards, he noted that it was a very pale blonde. Shaking his head ignoring the phenomena for now, he kept walking.

He was halfway up another flight of stairs when he heard Chloe calling for him from....somewhere above him? Looking up he looked straight at her, standing, seemingly upside down on another flight of stairs.

She still wore her blue jeans, but her shirt had changed into a flowy blouse and vest ensemble. Chancing a quick look back down at himself, he noted his own outfit and groaned.

”Where the hell are we?” He turned his gaze back to Chloe.

Looking down at Lex while standing up was very odd. But, she got over it quickly. “I’m assuming that you don’t watch many fantasy movies.”

Lex shook his head once and Chloe said, “Remind me to buy you Labyrinth when we get home.” Chloe looked around, trying to see if there was a staircase that would take her directly to Lex. Of course, she saw nothing of the like.

She contemplated jumping down to Lex but she wasn’t too keen on the idea. However, she didn’t see that she had all that many options. Besides, she sort of remembered something like that in the movie. It was really too bad that she hadn’t seen it recently.

“Stay there, I’m going to jump to you.”

Lex's eyes widened as Chloe got ready to jump. “No, wait!” This couldn't work, Chloe was standing upside down, so if she jumped, she'd fall in the other direction, which meant away from him instead of towards him. The same would happen if he tried to jump from where he was standing, at least if gravity still followed some rules in this weird place. “You wouldn't land here if you jumped! This can't work.”

Trying to work out what Lex was seeing, Chloe decided instead to just trust what he was saying. “Ok, I’m open to any other suggestions.” She looked around. “We could just try taking the different staircases to see what happens. But, there would be no guarantee that we’d get closer to one another.”

She ran a hand through her hair and it got stuck in the long tresses. She wasn’t used to long hair and it wasn’t very convenient right now. There was dirt in it and it was really tangled.

Lex kept looking around, trying to see if he could find a way out of this situation. It was starting to annoy him greatly. If they both kept moving, they might very well never end up on the same staircase at the same time. “Ok, I think it'd be best if only one of us moved. Stay right where you are and I'll find a way over there.”

“Gotcha.” Chloe sat down on the stairs. She knew that Lex needed to do something. He was used to puzzling out things so having no clue as to where they were or what was going on had to be bothering him. Besides, it made sense. She just hoped that he made a few good, lucky choices.

Chloe watched as he disappeared, and then reappeared about four staircases *below* where he had just been. She heard him curse and smiled a little. The situation was not funny at all, but she found it cute, for lack of a better word, when Lex’s feathers got ruffled.

He disappeared again and then showed up in a staircase above her. She waved and he quickly turned around. This time, when he disappeared, he didn’t reappear. Chloe waited…and waited…and waited. She stood up. This was taking too long, something had happened to him. She walked over to the edge of the stairs and peered down.

A fluid string of curses flowed from his lips as he looked around and found nothing but empty staircases above and beyond. Shaking his head he walked to the edge of the landing and looked down and right at Chloe standing on the other side.

Lex blinked slowly, then took a deep breath, controlling the urge to exclaim something as undignified as 'Woah, shit!'. Instead he pasted a shaky smirk on his lips and said, “The laws of physics really don't mean anything in this place.”

Chloe stumbled back when she saw Lex staring at her from the other side of the stairs. She tripped on one of them and thankfully only fell down, or up, she couldn’t keep track, one or two of them.

His eyes widened as he watched Chloe stumbling on the steps and falling back on her ass, even though she should have been falling head first into nothing. Hell she shouldn't have been able to stand on solid ground in the first place what with her being upside down.

Lex took a deep breath and released it slowly, his mind working on overdrive. So scratch the laws of physics, forget everything you ever knew about gravity and go right into the realm of mental illness. 'Oh fuck it.' If what he was about to try wouldn't work, he could still hope that he was fast enough to grab the edge of the stairs and hang on to it. “Chloe, stay back, let me try something.”

He tentatively set his foot over the edge of the stair case and found himself whipped forward and around, straight like a board until his other foot connected with the staircase again, this time on Chloe's side. Now they were both right side up as he took a few steps towards her and away from the edge. “I've seen a lot, but this place really tops it all.” He looked back at the end of the stairs then back to Chloe. “You alright?”

After accepting what she had just seen happening as reality, Chloe mumbled, “Yeah, I’m alright.” She started to get up and Lex walked over to help her up, she averted her eyes when he got close. The tights weren’t very good for modesty’s sake. When she came face to face with him, she could see that the makeup was on pretty thick and bit down on her lower lip to keep from smiling or making some smart-ass remark.

“I’d be better if we could get out of this place though,” she said, looking around. “If you could just do what you did, what’s to keep gravity from stop working all together.” She looked below them at all of the staircases that they could bounce off of if they fell.

Lex followed her gaze and couldn't see anything that would lead them out of this place. The deceptive archways at the end of some of the stairs only lead to other archways and onto another staircases. “You said something about a movie?”

Chloe nodded. “We’re trapped in a movie, somehow. And in it, the girl got out of here by jumping.” Then, something came back to Chloe. “But, wait.” She closed her eyes, trying to remember. “I’m pretty sure that we *both* have to jump to get out of here.” She looked up at Lex, waiting for his reaction. Pretty sure was not, exactly, a ringing endorsement of certainty. And, they would pay dearly if she wasn’t remembering correctly.

Looking down from the side of the staircase once more, he pinched the bridge of his nose. Granted, it wasn't a good idea to just jump, but then, sometimes you simply didn't have a better option. As was the case for them at the moment. “Alright then,” he mumbled and reached his hand out to Chloe. “At least it's not a rabbit hole this time.”

Taking Lex’s hand, Chloe looked down below them. “I don’t know, I think I’d rather go through that thing again then be wrong about this.” She paused and looked over at him. “If I get us both killed, I apologize.” She smiled weakly at him. “So, the count of three sound good to you?” She pushed her hair out of her face again with her other hand and looked down.

Lex gave her fingers a small squeeze. “Sure,” For the first time he took a closer look at Chloe's hair and had to fight a twinge. Brunette wasn't really her color and the long strands absolutely not her style. “I really hope we're gonna get our usual looks back. This style does absolutely nothing for you.”

A wide grin broke out on Chloe’s face. At least Lex could keep his spirits up in this situation, even if it was only for her sake. “Yeah, well, your style,” she looked him up and down, “while very interesting, doesn’t suit you that well either.” She tilted her head and pretended to study his face. “Though, I do like the eyeliner.” Before Lex could question her about it, she said, “Alright. One.” She looked back at him and he faced forward. “Two.” She looked at the stairs below them. “Three.” Chloe felt Lex hold fast to her hand as they jumped. She just hoped that she hadn’t gotten this one wrong.

He kept a firm grip on Chloe's hand as he felt both of them slowing down. Looking around, he could see the stairs breaking apart and falling away around them, leaving nothing but blackness behind. When the finally both landed softly on the ground, it was only a short platform in the middle of nothing, circled by a few odd ruins of the staircases and an empty archway. He let go of Chloe's hand and spun in a circle. There was no way to go from here. Looking down at himself he realized that his clothing had yet again changed. Knee high boots, grey - oh god - skintight leggings that left *nothing* to the imagination, a billowing grey shirt, button less and open at the chest and to top it off a fucking mohair cape! In one line, he looked like a ponce. Lex groaned again. “We have to get out of here. Now.”

Chloe wanted to ask if that had to do with the situation or his new outfit, but didn’t. It just seemed that wherever they were, they always had to get the hell out of there quickly. She wondered why there weren’t any enjoyable lands. ‘You’d think that we’d get something good once from the luck of the draw.’ Then again, if the funhouse was all about screwing with them, Chloe could see how that would never be true.

She thought about this part of the movie and brightened a little. “Oh, I think I may be able to help us on this one!” Lex waited for her to continue and she said, “There was this whole speech that she gave at the end that set her free. But,” she grumbled, “like some twit she couldn’t remember part of it.”

Lex's hands were itching at his sides. He usually would have shoved them into his pants pockets at this time, a habit he had acquired to rid himself of fidgeting in his early teens. For lack of a better option he folded them across his chest. “So, you think that if you just ramble off this little speech we'll get out of here?” he surmised.

Nodding, Chloe said, “Yeah, it was the way that she saved her brother and got back to her own world.” She furrowed her brows, hoping that her logic would hold up. Things here were a little different. There was no kid for her to save and she hadn’t even seen one Muppet.

Lex nodded along. He'd never seen the movie Chloe was talking about, but he trusted that she at least had a clue of what she was doing, even though she didn't look too confident. “You don't even realize when you're chewing your bottom lip to grind, do you?” He'd watched her do that several times in this world already and even before they'd gotten here. It was a sure sign that Chloe was nervous or doubting herself in a situation.

Chloe stopped chewing on her lip instantly and said, “Not helping, Lex.” She walked a few feet away from him, getting herself in order.

“Alright,” she muttered to herself. Thankfully, Chloe was certain that she could get through the speech…once she remembered the first line that was. “Something about travels unknown….there was something about a goblin, too.” Chloe started to pace and she could see that Lex was watching her every move.

“Danger was in there…..oh, I know!” She whipped around and stared at Lex. For dramatic effect, she walked towards him and lowered her voice. “Through dangers untold and hardships unknown.” Chloe paused and said, “See, you’re the bad guy here so I have to say it to you.”

Lex stifled the impulse to roll his eyes. “Of course.” Even in this twisted universe he was automatically sorted in the category of bad guy. What the hell had he ever done to deserve this? He kept his petulant ramblings inside though. “Go on.”

She could see the internal hissy fit that Lex was throwing but ignored it. They didn’t have time for her to explain to him that *she* didn’t think he was a bad guy. “I have fought my way here to the…” ‘Oh, crap.’ Chloe could actually feel herself forgetting the speech. She blamed this twisted universe. She started to rush through it before it was all gone.

“Fought my way here to the castle beyond the goblin city.” There was something more about strength in there. That line came back fairly easily and Chloe felt herself getting into the swing of the character.

Staring evenly at Lex, she said, “My will is as strong as yours.” She wondered what he thought about that little tidbit but continued on, “My kingdom as great.” This was good, she was wrapping it up.
When she opened her mouth for the last line, nothing came out. It was gone. She shook her head and tried to concentrate. She could see the scene in her head, she just couldn’t hear the damn line. She started to whisper the whole speech to herself.

Lex looked at her expectantly. When she faltered and recited the verses so far again, he let out a sigh of resignation. “You don't remember do you?” he murmured, his arms dropping to his side. So far it had gone well, even though only one of the lines had made sense to Lex. Well some of the others could apply to them as well... if you stretched far enough.

Huffily, Chloe said, “It’s not that I can’t remember the words, it’s just that I’ve forgotten them, ok?” She practically growled. “Besides, that’s what happens in the movie. She couldn’t remember. Plus, he was yammering at her, too.” Again, she went over the little speech in her head. Lex was staring at her while she paced around. Without looking at him she said, “Could you please tone down the glare a little?”

Lex did a double take. He hadn't even been aware that he was glaring. “Sorry. Reflex,” he said. “Well do you remember his lines? Maybe it'll help if we actually try to play it out?”

As Chloe went through the scene, another thought came to her. What if she made another choice than Sarah had? In the movie, it wouldn’t make any sense, but this wasn’t Sarah and Jareth. This was her and Lex.

“Ok, new game plan.” She walked over to him. “You say, ‘just fear me, love me, do as I say and I will be your slave.’” Chloe got the reaction she expected from Lex, he just stared at her. She was sure that he was going through the lines and not liking them one bit.

He had a hard time keeping his facial expressions in check. Fear in the same breath as love? And the part about Chloe obeying him and him being her slave didn't exactly sound much better. “Just what kind of movie is this?”

Chloe crossed her arms and looked at Lex. “It’s not the type of movie you watch when you’re all alone in the Manor late at night, ok? He’s trying to convince her to stay with him, that she doesn’t need to go back to her world.” When Lex continued to look at her levelly, she felt herself getting annoyed with him. True, she doubted that she would have just rolled over and said that to him. But, did Lex really think that she was doing this to be cute?

“Listen, you either trust me or you don’t. Which is it?”

He took a step towards her and straightened up. Anything to get him out of this ridiculous costume. Getting into character, he looked at her imploringly and spoke softly. “Just fear me,” He paused then spoke a little stronger, “Love me, do as I say and I will be...” Whoever had written those lines was definitely no new Shakespeare. “Your Slave.”

Trying not to let Lex’s delivery of the lines affect her, Chloe nodded. Being that this hadn’t happened in the movie, Chloe didn’t know exactly what to do. Lex merely saying the words hadn’t done anything.

‘That’s because he needs some type of answer from you.’

Closing the gap between them, Chloe licked her lips and cleared her throat. Knowing that it would come out sounding odd, she locked eyes with Lex and said, “I agree.” For a moment, nothing happened.

Chloe continued to stare at Lex and, thinking maybe more was needed, started to lean towards him.

His eyes narrowed as Chloe started to shift closer to him. She wouldn't use this situation for her own purposes, would she? 'Of course not. This is Chloe, not Victoria you idiot.' Then why the hell was she leaning in as if she was planning to kiss him? 'Maybe it's part of how the movie's supposed to turn out.' That sounded logical enough. At that moment Lex felt heat against his back and he watched Chloe's arm fly up in front of her face as she stumbled a step back.

A blinding light appeared behind Lex and Chloe put her arm up, shielding her eyes. It was a door.

“Guess that was the right thing,” she smiled briefly at him and then walked through the door.

Lex followed her into the bright light. As he emerged on the other side, all he could see was Chloe, back to her normal self, down to the spikey blonde strands and simple t-shirt over her jeans. They were now standing in an empty room and a few feet in front of them a simple blue couch.

The room was light, even though there were no windows and no visible lamps anywhere. When he glanced back the way they'd come there was only a white wall where the door had been before. The other four walls were bare of any doors as well. They were well and truly trapped with no way out. Again. “Great.”

Chloe was filled with a sense of defeat. At least in the Labyrinth world, she had a clue as to how to get them out. There was no sign of a door anywhere. Even though there was a possibility that it would eat her, she flopped down on the couch and put her head in her hands. “Ok, this is beginning to piss me off.” Her words came out a little muffled but she knew Lex would be able to make them out.

Lex walked over and sat down beside her, letting himself sprawl back into the cushions of the couch. “Just starting to?” he quipped. “Hell if there was any way to contact whoever is responsible for this, I'd be willing to offer them an arm and a leg to get out of here.” He closed his eyes and concentrated on his breathing. He'd heard somewhere that it was supposed to relieve stress. It wasn't working. “Just how many fucking places do we have to go through until we get out of here? I'm pretty sure we aren't even in this damn fun house anymore. Considering how far we've walked in that area with the club and the hotel alone we could be anywhere.” He brought his hands up to his face to rub his sore eyes, before he drew it back over his head. Thankfully the awful platinum mane on his head was gone as well and as he looked down he realized with satisfaction that he was dressed in his comfortable jeans and the *buttoned* cotton shirt. “And just when I think I've figured out a way to get us out that might actually have something to do with the purpose of this whole mess we get interrupted and thrown into a damn fantasy movie of all things.”

“Well, we certainly have time for your plan now.” Chloe stood up and walked over to one of the walls, looking for a seam designating any kind of opening. Finding none, she raised her voice and yelled, “Being that there’s no fucking way to get out of here.” She kicked the wall a few times for good measure. Then, limping slightly, she sat back down on the couch and faced Lex. “So, where were we before we got sucked into an 80s movie?”

Lex turned his head sideways so he could look at Chloe. He remembered almost exactly where they'd left off. She'd barely gotten to finish her first sentence when one of the doors had interrupted them. “You were going to tell me about Clark,” he ventured.

“Oh.” Chloe nodded. She remembered wanting to tell Lex in order to get it off her chest. But, that was when they were on a busy street with other people around them. She still wanted to talk about it, but it seemed more real and intimate now that it was just the two of them in a room with nothing to distract them.

Lex remained silent, and Chloe took her time, trying to find a good place to start. “I got a lead on him from one of my sources in Metropolis.” She leaned back on the couch. “At first, I was sure that it wasn’t him, from the description that I got. However, when they gave me a picture of him, it was clearly Clark.” She thought back to the joy she had felt when she realized that she had finally found him. God, how stupid she had been.

“There was this club that he went to frequently, so I started going there myself. I’d tell my father that I was staying with a friend and then hang out there all night.” Chloe remembered having to fend off numerous men as she waited in the dark club. It had taken a week before Clark had shown up.

Lex had planned to listen without interjecting, but something was still nagging at him. “Did you ever find out *why* he disappeared to Metropolis in the first place?”

“We never really got to discuss that particular question,” she answered. Once she had spotted Clark, it had taken her awhile to pull herself together. She remembered her jaw had actually hung open when he walked in. His hair was sexily mussed and he had some brunette with him. He had said something to the bartender and then led his date out onto the dance floor. She had watched, almost hypnotized, as Clark began to grind against the girl.

“I did have a list of things I was planning on bringing up with him, but they went out the window once we actually started talking.” Clark’s tramp had run off to the bathroom and Chloe took that opportunity to corner him. He wasn’t happy to see her and demanded that she leave. When she had refused, things had gone from bad to worse.

Lex nodded silently, turning halfway on the couch to face Chloe and propping his chin in his fist, his elbow on the back rest of the couch. “Why did he attack you like that?”

“He kept telling me to stop calling him Clark, that it wasn’t his name anymore.” Chloe remembered being annoyed with him, not understanding that she was sinking deeper and deeper into trouble. She had caught the way that he was looking at her, but it was *Clark*, there was no reason to fear him.

“He kept stonewalling me and said there were better things to do than talk.” Taking a deep breath, Chloe started to tell Lex the beginning of the worst part of her story. “I thought he had lost his mind, or was drunk, or was high. Before I could tell him that he was nuts, he pushed me against the wall and kissed me.”

Lex couldn't help the sneer that flashed over his features at that. “Well, the boy was never really good at subtlety, or knowing his limits for that matter,” his tone was cold and matter of fact.

She nodded and wasn’t able to suppress the shudder that ran down her body at the memory of what came next. It had been rough and he had grabbed at her breasts as his tongue delved into her mouth. Her voice got a little softer, “I pushed him away and told him that I didn’t know what the hell he thought he was doing. That the Clark that I knew would never do something like that. I spun around and walked away.” She looked back up at Lex. “I think that that is what set him off. First I rejected him and then I called him Clark.”

Lex nodded silently once more. He wanted to reach out to Chloe, but he wasn't sure if she'd appreciate being touched at the moment. “That was where I entered the memory I think. It picked up with somebody holding me from behind and pressing into me.” He suppressed a shiver at the memory. “I had no idea how being crushed like that can feel from the woman's side,” he added silently.

“Yeah, I got a few feet and then felt him behind me.” Chloe closed her eyes and brought her knees to her chest, holding them close to her body. “I just couldn’t believe that it was happening.” She opened her eyes and looked back at Lex. “It was *Clark*, you know?” She shook her head. “I felt so stupid and helpless…I had never felt like that before. I just froze up.” Knowing that she didn’t need to go over the actual event, Chloe moved on.

“Someone grabbed him off of me. I don’t know who, or how they were able to do it. But, after that, I just ran out of the place.” She paused again. “After all of that, I was so out of it that I almost got hit by a car in the alley. I went back to the hotel that I was staying at and then back to Smallville the next day. Afterwards, I figured out that Clark wasn’t himself that there was something different and wrong with him.”

When he got back from Metropolis, he tried to talk to her about it, but Chloe refused. She wanted to put it in the past. Wanted to put the memory in a box and bury it as far down as she could. But, this damn place wouldn’t let her do it.

“He tried to talk to me about it, but I wouldn’t. I told him never to mention it again.” For once, Clark had listened to her. But, she didn’t know if that was a good thing or a bad thing. “He never did.”

Lex's eyebrows rose and fell as he shrugged his shoulder. “Can't say that's a surprise. He's the master of bad lies and denial when it comes to his faults.” Watching Chloe pull herself into an ever smaller ball on the couch while she told her story had gnawed on Lex for some reason. In his eyes, she'd always been a strong person who fought every weakness with a vengeance and tried her best to keep her chin up. Seeing her like this made something nauseating and uncomfortable coil in his gut. “I'm sorry for what happened, Chloe. I can only admire you for coping with it the way you did.” He hoped that his compliment would be able to at least restore some of her confidence. Finally getting over his doubts, he reached out and lightly touched her arm, still curled tightly around her knees.

Glad for the comfort, Chloe laid her hand over his. “Thanks, Lex.” The silence between them stretched on as they looked at each other. They didn’t need to talk and she felt comfortable sitting in silence with him. ‘See, this is why I love him.’ Thankfully, Chloe didn’t have to cut off her line of thinking forcibly because a noise came from one of the walls.

The shape of a door had appeared. Looking back at Lex, she said, “Looks like your plan worked.”

Lex turned to where Chloe had looked before and could see the almost translucent shape of a door on the wall behind the couch. “Seems so. Ok let's get out of here.”

However, as soon as he'd gotten up from the couch and started to approach the door, it started to fade again, until only three lines on the wall were left. “What the hell?” He stepped closer and touched the lines, then kicked at the solid wall and went back to the couch, sinking in an ungraceful heap back into the cushions. “Or not,” he muttered.

Thinking for a moment, Chloe said softly, “I think we need to talk about what I saw.” She watched Lex tense up in front of her and then visibly shut down. After the first crazy thing or so, he hadn’t really bothered to hide his emotions from her. Now, at the mention of her experience in the crystal ball, Lex had put on his impassive face.

When he didn’t say anything, Chloe moved a little closer to him. “Lex, I think you have to.”

Lex remembered the last time he'd been forced to tell a truth to Chloe Sullivan that he'd rather kept hidden. Now it seemed he was in the same situation, this time forced by the indiscernible workings of a weird funhouse instead of a truth serum of his father's creation. Lex *hated* being out of control. He forced himself to relax his jaw that had started working as he mulled over his unfortunate situation.

”It was after Julian died,” he faltered. After all those years of keeping it inside, he didn't even know *how* to talk about this anymore.

Dealing with Lex was different than dealing with anyone else. You always had to weigh how he would react to something that you would do with anyone else on instinct. Right now was a prime example.

Chloe had felt much better when Lex had touched her, but she didn’t know if he would flinch away from her or if it would do more harm than good. She didn’t want to make this harder for him or stop him from talking. She moved a little closer. When he didn’t move away or seem to mind it, she gently placed a hand on his knee.

“I figured as much.” Chloe vividly remembered what his mother had said. “That must have been really hard for you.” She recalled how much it had hurt when her mother had *left* and couldn’t imagine having to deal with losing a little brother.

Lex nodded mutely, staring at a spot on the wall just behind Chloe's shoulder. “I never forgave myself for what happened.” He dropped his hand on top of Chloe's to acknowledge the contact as he kept speaking. “What you saw happened shortly before she started to get ill. Part of me feels responsible for that, too. Psychosomatic sickness and all that.” He took a breath and closed his eyes. He wasn't sure how much he'd have to bring up and put out there before the door returned.

He let his eyelids drift open and shifted his gaze to the spot on the wall behind the couch. The outline of the door was slowly coming back.

Chloe knew that he was uncomfortable with this. Not from his face or his voice. He had no expression and his voice never wavered, but he was absently running his fingers over hers. It was as if he needed a distraction of any kind from what he was saying. That way, he could just focus on something else and report what happened, matter-of-factly.

“*None* of that was your fault, Lex.” Even though Lex wasn’t looking at her, Chloe kept her gaze on his face. She doubted that anyone had ever told him that. God knows that Lionel never would have.

Lex exhaled sharply through his nose. “Doesn't make me feel less guilty about it. That's why I didn't defend myself when what you saw happened. I felt I deserved it. Felt it was my fault that she...that Julian died. Dealing with my father didn't make anything easier. He was lashing out at everybody and I was a convenient target when I gave him the option.” He hoped that being vague wouldn't affect the door in some way. Lex shot another furtive glance at the wall and saw the lines flicker. 'Damn, I can't...'

“That was wrong of him.” Chloe didn’t want to go too deeply into anything, she just wanted Lex to know that she was there for him. Telling him that his father was an absolute monster for doing that wouldn’t get them anywhere. And, it wasn’t the point. She looked over to the door, it was still not solid enough for them to use.

Chloe linked her fingers with Lex’s, stilling their movements. “Even at twelve, you were stronger than he was. He was in pain, but that’s no excuse for what he did.” The next sentence was harder for her to say. She knew that Lex loved his mother. “Or for what she did, either.”

Lex's eyes snapped back to Chloe's face at that. He felt an irrational anger rising inside him at her last statement, conditioned to deny any negative insinuation about his mother with a vehemence that had turned stronger men to cowering idiots. “What are you trying to say,” his tone was sharp and he couldn't help the bile rising in the back of his throat at the pitying expression on Chloe's face.

She didn’t flinch at the tone of his voice. Chloe had expected it. She increased her grip on Lex’s hand. “I’m saying that whatever pain she was feeling, your mother had no right to do that to you.” Lex stared at her and Chloe remembered how much pain he had gone through at her hands. “No right at all.” She kept her voice soft and there was no malice in it. She would never understand what had made Lex’s mother do that to him, but he still loved her. She wouldn’t make this harder on him than it already was.

Lex ground his molars together so hard his jaw was starting to ache. He fought the urge to lash out against the one person that knew how he'd felt that day. His rational mind was trying to convince him that it wasn't pity, but simply empathy Chloe was showing, but his baser instincts were urging him to do something anything to get out of the defense and into the offence. “I forgave her for what she did a long time ago and it doesn't matter if she was in the right or not. It happened, I dealt with it and it's all been resolved in the end.” Now that was a lie if he'd ever told one. They'd simply swept this incident under the rug in true Luthor fashion and never spoken about it again. Like so many other things. But Lex was all right with that. He had no idea what good it was supposed to do to dredge it all up now.

When Lex had said that he had dealt with what had happened, Chloe’s eyebrows had shot up. It was a total and utter lie. She really couldn’t believe that Lex had tried to pull that kind of bullshit on her. Remembering how hard this must be on him, Chloe got herself a little under control before saying. “You’re lying. You haven’t deal with *any* of this. I’d be surprised if you’d even *thought* about this in more than a decade.”

Back to the teeth clenching. Why was she pushing his buttons? She had to know how hard this was for him and yet she ignored it completely and kept on prodding. He could feel himself losing his calm. Emitting a rather indescribable sound between a growl and a snarl. He threw off Chloe's hand and flew out of his seat starting to pace angrily. “So what if I didn't? So what IF I chose to forget what happened?” He swirled around to stare her dead in the face. “Not everybody deals with shit the same way, Chloe. Can't you imagine I'd rather like to forget something like that *ever* happened and move on, instead of plaguing myself with thoughts that would get me nowhere but suicidal?” He kicked violently against the arm of the couch before he continued pacing. “Dammit, why do we have to bring up this shit, anyway?”

Chloe didn’t even react when Lex angrily broke their contact of when he kicked the couch. She just let him rant on. He didn’t really want answers to his questions, he just wanted to yell. She’d let him do that. The only reason that he had reacted this way was because he knew that she was right.

“I've had enough of it. I don't *want* to talk about this, or anything that concerns my childhood for that matter because talking about it won't change anything! So I had a miserable childhood, a rotten asshole for a father and a mother that killed my own brother to keep me 'safe' from said father. There! That was the cliff notes of Lex Luthor's life.” He turned his face towards the ceiling. “Happy now? Will you let us the fuck out of here then?” When nothing happened he let his head drop to his chest.

He had a giant headache coming on and felt like curling up into a seat and nursing a bottle of brandy, or two.

The only sound in the room was Lex’s ragged breathing. Chloe was wrestling with what Lex had just said. It was huge and there was no way in hell that he had ever told anyone else about it. Or dealt with it in any constructive way. It was amazing that he had turned out as normal as he had. Chloe had always known that he was strong, but she couldn’t even begin to fathom how he lived everyday with all of that pent up inside of him.

Lex was turned away from her and she let him be for a moment. Looking at the other side of the room, she saw that there was a solid outline of a door. Next to it, there was a fainter outline of another door. The solid door looked a little rickety, as if it led to an outhouse or some ramshackle building. The faint outline was of a much more ornate and bigger door. They could easily leave through the solid door.

Looking back at Lex, Chloe knew what their options were. They could leave right now and not discuss what Lex had been through. Or, they could keep talking and the other door would, most likely, become solid.

The real question was if Chloe wanted to put Lex through any more of this. It wasn’t fair that he would have to deal with all of this if he didn’t want to. Especially since they could, in theory, leave right now.

Lex was still trying to get his breathing back under control, staring fixedly at a point on the floor in front of him. Chloe's silence was beginning to penetrate his brain as his breathing was the only sound in the room. “Speechless, Chloe?” Of course, who wouldn't be? It was not something you heard every day that someone you considered a business partner and maybe even friend dropped a bombshell like this in your lap.

“Yes,” Chloe said, honestly. She looked back at the two doors. She knew that she should tell Lex about them. But, she also knew that if he didn’t deal with this now, he never would. To tell him or not to tell him?



A. Tell Lex about the door
B. Don't tell Lex about the door

[BlueSabby]

She spared another glance at Lex’s back, he was turned fully away from the two doors. She knew that she should tell him, that if they were going to get anywhere with each other honesty would play a part in it. However, she thought that Lex was finally getting somewhere. That he was finally dealing with something that he should have faced a long time ago.

‘That’s not your decision to make for him,’ part of her said. But, for now, it *could* be her decision. She turned away from the doors, her decision made. She would tell him about their way out. She would just do it later.

“I’m speechless because I can’t believe that you’ve had to deal with this and not gone crazy.” Chloe winced when she realized her mistake. Running her hand through her hair, she said, “I’m sorry. I think you know what I mean.”

‘Slick move, Sullivan.’ But there was nothing she could do about it now.

A mirthless chuckle escaped from his dry lips as Lex shook his head, still examining the floor with his eyes. “Sometimes I can't believe it myself. I shouldn't have needed my father's help to snap, I know.” He shrugged. “But the human mind is capable of amazing things when it comes to repressing uncomfortable or downright terrifying things.” He stuffed his hands into his jeans pockets. “So, did it help?”

Lex's face turned slowly in Chloe's direction, but his eyes were still unfocused. At the moment he was trying to digest their situation, keep his mental state somewhat in check and most of all, not break down in front of company more than he already had.

“Just because someone is strong enough to suppress something doesn’t mean that they should do it.” She didn’t want to sound like she was judging him, or like she was his mother, but Lex needed to understand that there were some things that needed to be dealt with.

Quietly, she said, “It can do more harm than good.” She kept her gaze focused on Lex. She didn’t want his attention to waver from her. Not just because he might notice the way out. She really thought that if she could keep some sort of connection with him, he would keep talking. Chloe didn’t expect him to break down or have an epiphany, but some progress was better than none.

Lex snorted. “You honestly think that talking about all this would have helped me? And who should I have talked to?” He shook his head, rubbing his hands over his sore neck and shoulders. “A psychiatrist? Back then, if I'd talked to anyone, believe me the harm it would have done would have been tremendous.” He started pacing slowly. “I couldn't let anyone know what had happened for fear of it getting back to my father and I had no delusions as to the consequences it would have.” Even back than, he'd been too smart and by far too imaginative for his age. He'd had vivid Technicolor nightmares of what would happen if Lionel ever found out what had really happened to his second heir. “And after she died,” he shrugged.
“It was habit to dissect my thoughts in private and push the things I couldn't deal with into the back of my mind and just keep them there.” Now almost in front of the bare wall, he stopped, looking up at the ceiling with unfocused eyes. “So that is my way of dealing and for the most part it worked.” He shook his head again and turned back to Chloe fully. “But in any case, I think I should have opened enough to...” Lex trailed off as he saw the two doors straight ahead of him and only a few steps behind the couch and Chloe. “Let's get out of here.”

Before answering Lex or even moving, Chloe thought about what he had said. Lex did have a point, who was he supposed to go to with something like this? It was just painful to think of Lex as being so hurt and helpless with no one around who truly loved him. When they got back, Chloe would throttle Lionel with her own two hands.

She turned around and looked at the doors. The first one was unchanged. The other more intricate one had become clearer. Apparently Lex was right, he’d done enough to get them out of this room. Chloe took a deep breath before getting off of the couch. Lex wouldn’t meet her eyes and she walked towards the doors, feeling him follow after her.

Chloe reached for the knob of the nicer door. Sure, it could be a trap, but she didn’t think so. Then again, what the hell did she know? Lex didn’t object, so she opened the door. As usual, she couldn’t see what was on the other side, just a void of blackness. It was only once they stepped through that things came into focus.

Blinking a few times in confusion, Chloe took in their new surroundings. It was true that they weren’t safe anywhere in this place, but the room that they were in didn’t even strike a little terror into her heart.

True, libraries could be creepy if you were in them alone at night, but this one was well lit and quite beautiful. It had high ceilings and windows that allowed a great deal of light to stream in. Not to mention the fact that the stacks were made out of what looked to be a high grade mahogany that matched the various desks that were placed sporadically through the room.

All in all, this was the best place that they had been to thus far. She looked over at Lex and said, “Not what I expected.” She walked over to one of the shelves and her brows knit together. Instead of the usual numbers that adorned the spines of book, there was a name and date.

Lex walked up to the book case in front of them, a little to the left of Chloe, examining the spines of the books, intrigued by the names and numbers on them. None of those names rang any bells with him but the general gist was, they all started with M. He moved on, alongside the row, further away from Chloe. “Do any of those names sound familiar to you?”

He walked on, reading random spines. “Mihan, Charles. 1975.” A few books down. “Miller, Miles. 2001.” Another few books. “Milltown, Anne. 1983.”

Chloe shook her head as she examined the books. She had never heard of any of these people. She walked a little further down the bookcase then peered around it. There were bookcases as far as the eye could see. After thinking for a moment, she walked along the bookcase, searching for a particular name. “Patrick Murphy.” Then, she found the book that corresponded to last year. She opened the book and murmured, “Wow.” Raising her voice she said, “Lex, you gotta check this out.”

Lex walked around to where Chloe was, taking the book out of her hand. “Patrick Murphy, that sounds familiar,” he mumbled while searching his memory.

She wasn’t surprised that Lex had heard of him. He was in all of the local papers last year. Patrick was Smallville’s valedictorian. However, there had been some controversy about that. His GPA had fallen off and it looked as if he wasn’t going to be ranked first in the class. Then, he had killed on a Physics final, knocking out his competition. There were accusations that he had cheated, all of which he vehemently denied. He was made valedictorian and got the scholarship that went along with it.

“Smallville’s tarnished valedictorian from last year,” Chloe said as she gestured to the open page of the book. Lex would freak when he saw what she did.

Lex leaned over her shoulder to look at the book. Now he remembered. He'd read about the guy in a 'Torch' article last year. That's why the name had sounded so familiar. And of course the fact that the mentioned scholarship was from Luthorcorp. “What the fuck?” His eyes fell on the page and the picture inside it. It was moving, like a tiny television screen, showing him the boy in question. What the boy did made his eyes narrow and his eyebrow arch high. “That son of a bitch,” he murmured.

Offhandedly, she said, “Actually, his mother is quite nice.” Chloe watched as Patrick peered around the classroom and then took out a small piece of paper. She shook her head, “What an ass.” She looked up at Lex, “I don’t suppose me telling the administration that I saw him cheating in some freaky book in a funhouse will do anything about making things right.”

Lex shook his head. “Sadly not, but that doesn't mean he can't lose his scholarship for other reasons, if he gets caught redhanded,” he smirked.

He stepped back from Chloe and walked along down the bookcase to glance at other books. He didn't know many people in this section. Making a mental list of people he'd love to check up on, he crossed the aisle to the next section.

Chloe watched Lex closely as he inspected the books on the shelf across from her. She knew what he was up to but held her tongue as she flipped through Patrick’s book. She noticed something odd. Yes, he had obviously cheated but she did know that he wasn’t all bad. However, none of that seemed to be in the book. It only seemed to show Patrick doing morally questionable things.

She looked over at Lex, prepared to tell him so and her eyes widened. Chloe remained silent as she watched Lex get further and further away. It looked as if the floor was expanding every second. Throwing the book on the floor, Chloe started to run in Lex’s direction. Getting separated in this place was a bad thing. “Lex!”

Lex turned around at Chloe's anxious cry of his name, finding her more than twenty feet away. The fucking floor was expanding between them! He started running but didn't get further than three steps before a giant bookcase literally grew out of the floor and shot up towards the ceiling. “Chloe!”

Chloe stopped in her tracks when she saw a bookcase fly up out of the floor in front of Lex. It turned out to be a good move when the same thing happened to her. She was certain that, had she been running, she would have careened directly into the damn thing. She could hear Lex cursing and yelling her name, but his voice was getting more and more distant. “Fuck!” She kicked the bookshelf and a few volumes dropped on her head. She picked up the books and threw them for good measure.

Stepping out from the bookshelf she looked down the room. Unsurprisingly, Lex was nowhere to be seen. “Dammit, what in the hell am I supposed to do now?”

Lex tried to walk around the bookcase, like he'd done before, but the damn thing seemed endless all of a sudden, expanding miles in both directions. “Well, fuck!” He kicked the bookcase, sending books flying. Turning around with a snarl he started walking down to the left. “Chloe?!” He yelled upwards. “Can you hear me?!”

God dammit, he never should have walked away from her. Now the one thing they'd been avoiding from the fucking start had happened. They'd been separated and Lex had no clue how far away Chloe was from him at the moment. “If you can hear me, DON'T step through ANY doors.” He shouted, still walking hastily along the bookcase.

Lex was pretty sure that if they ended up in separate worlds it'd be the straw that broke the camel’s back and he'd completely lose it. “Chloe?!”

“Lex!” Chloe shouted his name for a few minutes but got no response. She was certain he was doing the same thing, but it was no use. This world played its tricks on them and they could only sit back and take it. If she ever found out who had sent her that note, she’d kill them.

Reconsidering her thoughts, she had to admit that it hadn’t been all bad. If you didn’t look at the humiliation and pain that they’d both been put through, that was. But, if she was going to be stuck in some sort of hell, at least it was with Lex. God forbid she and *Lana* had run into here together.

Reaching the end of yet another bookshelf, Chloe caught sight of a row of doors on the wall. “Nice try,” she muttered, “but I’m not that dumb.” Instantly, the doors disappeared. “Ok, we’re going to pretend that I didn’t just see that.”

As she walked down through the shelves, she noticed that the Ms appeared to be ending and she was now in the latter part of the Ls. She tried to ignore the fact that Lex’s books would have to be around here somewhere. She caught sight of LU and kept on walking.

Turn after turn she made, never paying attention to the books. She was looking for Lex, not information on his dirty past. After a few minutes and numerous bookshelves, she looked at the books. Then growled. She was still in the same place. “Are you trying to tell me something,” she yelled as she looked up.

Lex hadn't even glanced at the books until he'd ran out of steam stalking down the aisle at a furious pace. When he finally stopped and threw his hands up, he turned to look at the books. One series in particular caught his attention. Four books with dark velvet spines and on them in bold print. “Sullivan, Chloe.” Arching an eyebrow in interest, Lex picked up one of the books and flipped it open on a random page. His attention immediately caught by the happenings on the small moving picture inside.
~~~
After a few more aborted attempts at escaping the shelf with Lex’s books on them, she gave up. She grabbed one of the leather bound books, “Black, of course,” she muttered, and flipped it open. In addition to seeing what was going on, she could hear the beat of the techno music coming out of the book as well. She didn’t need anyone to tell her that she was now looking at the infamous Club Zero.
~~~
Lex's eyes narrowed slightly in interest as he watched Chloe walking into a room that was mainly ruled by the color pink. She looked over her shoulder and straight for a pink backpack, lying perched against a school desk. “That'll teach the bitch to break dibs.” He heard Chloe muttering under her breath as she pulled out a stack of paper from the backpack.
~~~~
Chloe saw that Lex was sitting at a table with a few other people. She hadn’t noticed what year this book was, but he was clearly in his late teens. He took a drag off of the cigarette in his right hand and Chloe thought, ‘He used to smoke?’ She shook her head at her own idiocy. She had seen the small tray that sat on the table, it was obviously cocaine, and noted that Lex’s left hand was far up the inner thigh of the redhead he was sitting next to yet she was focusing on the fact that young Lex was a smoker.

He passed his cigarette to the redhead, who was barely sixteen, if even that, and picked up a rolled up bill. Lex bent over the tray and Chloe could hear him snort up a line of coke. He leaned back on the couch and closed his eyes.
~~~~~~
Lex shook his head as he watched Chloe shuffle through the papers and got a close-up view of what they were. Obviously some term paper of Lana's. Chloe took them with her after closing the backpack's zipper and the 'camera' followed her out of the room and into what was obviously her own. She tore the papers apart until nothing was left of them, one by one. When her metal trashcan was filled with the snippets of the paper, Chloe took out a small match booklet, lit one of the matches and let it hover over the bin with a delighted glint in her eye before she dropped it.
~~~~~~
Chloe watched as Lex danced with the redhead. He pulled her against his body and dropped his head to her neck. She held tightly onto his back. After she gasped his name, he pulled away and led her to a corner of the club. Chloe watched as he pushed the girl against the wall. Lex started kissing her and his hands went under her skirt. Lex pulled her panties down and then took a condom out of his back pocket. The girl took the condom out of his hand and, Chloe couldn’t see from her exact angle, but she was certain that the girl had helped Lex to put it on. The girl kissed Lex again and pulled him close. She watched as Lex pulled the girl’s skirt up and then pushed into her. The girl wrapped her legs around Lex and threw her head back.

The girl let out a yelp of what was clearly pain but Lex didn’t slow down. “Lex, baby,” her voice was strained, “that’s good. But, oh, a little more gentle.” Lex ignored her. She heard her moan an “ow” but Lex kept his rhythm. After a few minutes, Chloe saw Lex’s body shudder. He pulled away from the girl and fixed himself back into place.

He smirked at her and said, “I’ll call you,” before walking back into the crowd.
~~~~~
Lex flipped the book shut and shook his head. If that was the worst about Chloe, it was literally child’s play compared to most of the things he'd done. Burning a term-paper because she was jealous of her room mate. Putting the book back into place he picked up the one next to it, again opening it to a random page. His eyes widened at what he saw. Chloe and his ex-wife. In the same room, having tea and chatting it up.
~~~~
Chloe put the book back on the shelf. Though she didn’t want to, she found herself picking up another book and flipping it open. This time, Lex was lying on a bed. He was clearly in some sort of dorm and was reading The Art of War. The door to his room exploded open and a furious looking young man lunged at Lex. The two tussled for a moment before Lex was able to throw him off of his body.

“I knew you liked it rough, Paul, but even that is a bit much, don’t you think?” Lex leered at the young man and licked his lips. Chloe gasped at his insinuation and the way that he was looking at the other person in his room.

“You told my father, you son of a bitch,” he pushed Lex against the wall and started screaming at him. “He’s pulling me out of here and sending me someplace for them to ‘fix’ me! Why would you do that?” The younger man’s face turned bright red as he screamed at Lex.

Unfazed, Lex pushed the boy by his shoulders and said, “Your father made me an offer I couldn’t refuse.” He smiled at the boy. The boy gaped at Lex, and then decked him.
~~~~~
Helen poured Chloe another cup of tea, then looked up at her with a calculating gaze that made Lex's blood run cold. “So, do you have what I want?” Her voice didn't have a trace of the softness to it that she used when talking to Lex the times that she wasn't angry with him.

Chloe pulled a thick folder out of her purse and made to hand it over the table. As Helen reached for it, she snatched it back. “Show me yours and I'll show you mine,” Chloe smirked.

Helen's lips curled in a subtle sneer before she reached behind her and pulled out a small vial and a folder.

”This is what I got from him when he was having that weird virus. His mother was in the hospital because of it and his father was acting more than suspicious when I first tried to take the blood.”

The women exchanged folders and Chloe turned the vial in her hand, looking at the deep red fluid inside. “It looks normal to me,” she murmured.

Lex stared in disbelief at the exchange between them. He'd immediately recognized the vial. It was the vial of Clark's blood. “Normal my ass,” he muttered, focusing harder to not miss anything going on inside the small screen that the book provided.
~~~~
Chloe quickly put the book back on the shelf, as if burned. She didn’t get it. If Lex was gay what in the hell was her double talking about? Either of them. She rubbed her temple and tried not to think about it. Especially in the context of what she had seen in the *other* book. Basically, Lex had been a manwhore who freely used drugs in his youth.

She already knew that from the rumors she had heard so there was no reason to be surprised by what she had just seen. However, hearing about something and seeing it were two different things. Lex had shown no regard for either the girl or the boy. He had fucked them and then he had screwed them. Chloe walked away from the shelf, hoping that she wouldn’t be led back there again.
~~~
Lex was glaring holes into the tiny images of Chloe and Helen alternately.

”So what you're saying is, that he's what? A mutant?” Chloe asked.

”What I'm saying is that his DNA matches nothing I've ever seen before and I've seen a lot during my 8 years in the fold,” Helen replied icily.

”Hmmm, it would certainly explain a few things,” Chloe mused to herself.

”Yeah and it will be something my supervisor will be very pleased to find out,” Helen allowed with a greedy glint in her eyes.

Lex watched Chloe's eyes sharpen as she regarded Helen carefully. “I have another question,” she iterated.

Helen motioned with a slim hand for Chloe to continue.

”What about Lex? I mean, where does he fit into all of this?”

Helen's whole countenance went cold. “That, Miss Sullivan is none of your business and I hope I don't have to impress on you that it would be a most unwise decision if you were to pursue that case.”

Chloe nodded slowly and got up. “I believe our business is done, Dr. Bryce.” She didn't even extend a hand as she started for the door. “But in your case, I would be very careful, too.”

Chloe was saying more, but Lex couldn't hear it, he could barely catch his name on Chloe's lips before she strode out of one of the mansion's salons, leaving Helen glaring after her.

Lex snapped the book shut, feeling the blood run cold inside him. Chloe had known. Or at least, she had suspected. She could have *warned* him. She hadn't. She'd made a deal with his treacherous, homicidal ex-wife and not even batted a lash when it was clear that Helen's motives were more than shady.

The fact that Lex was most shocked by, was something completely different, however. It was the fact that. It hurt, badly. He felt betrayed, sold. True, him and Chloe hadn't been more than acquaintances at that point in time, but his rational mind couldn't come up with anything that diminished the one base fact that it hurt.

‘Finally,’ Chloe thought as she realized that she was no longer going in circles. She could tell that the room had shrunk to its original size and she started looking for Lex. She had no idea what she would say to him when she saw him, but that was a separate problem.

What she saw shouldn’t have bothered her, it was his past. But, another part of her knew that one’s past made them who they were in the present. She thought about the fact that in one of these dimensions, Clark was with Lex. Things began to make sense. Maybe the emotions they were supposed to deal with was Lex’s rejection of his true sexuality and Chloe’s stupidity for falling for him.

Lex was still in a daze as he finally rounded the corner of the bookcase. Looking straight at Chloe coming towards him, he took a deep breath and tried to shove his emotions down. He'd deal with it later, when they were out of here and he was back in his home, alone.

Immediately, Chloe knew that something was wrong. Lex didn’t look in the least bit relieved at finding her. Instead, he had a weird look on his face that Chloe couldn’t define. She walked up to him and felt instantly awkward. It would stand to reason that if she saw something in his past, the same had happened with him. Which was probably what was causing his face to look like that.

Lex relaxed his facial features as he saw a questioning look on Chloe's face. “I've had enough of this library, let's get out of here before we get separated again,” he said flatly.

He had no intention to get into a discussion right now. Not after everything that had happened in the last hour or so.

When Lex brushed past her, Chloe *knew* something was wrong. He didn’t take her hand, he didn’t make sure she was following him. He was mad, or something, it was very hard to place.

She wanted to ask him what he had seen, but then wasn’t so sure that she wanted to know the answer to that. She tried to think of some of the lowest moments in her life…which was not a pleasant task.

Walking behind Lex, Chloe continued to stare at his back. It was killing her. The silence, the weirdness, not knowing what horrible thing Lex had seen her do. ‘He doesn’t want to talk about it.’ That was her rational side. The side that she usually didn’t listen to. Which led her to getting into all sorts of trouble.

“Lex, what did you see?” The question hung in the air and Lex stopped walking. Chloe realized the severity of her mistake when he turned around and looked at her. She wished she could tell him to forget it but knew it wouldn’t work.

He couldn't believe she actually had the gall to talk to him. Not after *this*. The rational part of his brain tried to remind him that she didn't know what he'd just witnessed, but it was to no avail. He was hurt and he was furious. She'd betrayed him, without batting a lash.

”Something I would never have expected to see. Now let's just look for a door and get out of here.”

By now, Lex was *willing* a door to appear out of thin air anywhere.

Chloe gulped when she heard the tone of his voice. There was no way that she’d even *suggest* talking about it now. Lex was still glaring at her, practically *through* her so she nodded and said, “Ok, Lex.” Not even acknowledging her response, Lex turned back around. Chloe followed him, being sure to keep some distance between them.

Lex stormed along the walls, trying to find any door out of there, he just wanted to get away. He needed time to think. Maybe they'd end up somewhere like the club world - hopefully minus Clark. Then he could lock himself away in the bathroom for a while or something, maybe there'd be a bar. His thoughts were racing each other across his brain, leaving his body working on automatic, one hand running across the wall.

All he needed was a fucking door, a window. Hell at this point he wouldn't mind a damn ventilation shaft. Thankfully Chloe wasn't trying to talk to him anymore. He was on edge enough to explode, but he wouldn't, not in front of her, so if she kept pushing it would only get worse and the eventual outburst would be murderous at worst.

How could she have done this? How could she just....He jerked his head to the side clamping down furiously on that train of thought, trying to distract his mind with inane things.

'The bayonet tongue in this undefended prayerpiece,
The present mouth, and the sweetly blown trumpet of lies,
Shaped in old armour and...' Ok definitely not Dylan Thomas.

Since poetry obviously was doing nothing to get his mind off the thought, he narrowed his eyes and switched to the physics.

Running over arithmetic formulas while his hand was still running along the wall. Eyes not even looking for a door anymore, but somewhere still hoping to find a way out.

His steps faltered as he felt the texture against his hand change. Wood. Not wall. His gaze flew to the spot and he was tempted to voice his elation.

Instead he jerked the handle roughly, finding the door opening easily and soundlessly.

”Come on,” he said without turning around.

He knew Chloe was still behind him, had felt her eyes on his back the entire time. It was a sixth sense you seemed to develop when you grew up with cameras and reporters interested in your every move.

Dutifully following after Lex, Chloe tried to think of a way to broach any subject with him that wouldn’t cause him to snap at her. She looked back up and then whipped her head around. Lex was gone. She had followed directly after him but he wasn’t in the room. She was in the middle of a very nice, homey looking kitchen.

For some reason, she whispered his name, “Lex. Lex!” She could feel herself beginning to get frantic. She heard footsteps and turned around to see….herself. “Oh, god, not again!”

The other her approached the sink and started to wash the dishes that were in it. “Ok,” Chloe said as she leaned against the island in the middle of the room, “What words of wisdom do *you* have to pass on to me?” The other Chloe ignored her.
~~~
Lex had stepped through the door, right into a very large dining room. It looked like the one in his mansion, or any other dining room he'd ever seen in the houses of his father's business associates when he was still a child.

He stepped closer to the long table looking down its length at a woman who was methodically cutting her food. His eyes wandered back up along the table until they fell on a small girl, sitting just to the right of the head of the table and when Lex turned around to see who was occupying that seat, his eyebrows flew up.

In front of him sat a perfect replica of himself, only slightly older. Oh this was priceless.

He turned around to throw a snide remark over his shoulder at Chloe. She wasn't there. Fuck!

Turning back around he addressed his double, who had up until now ignored his presence completely.

”Excuse me,” he began politely. He was still ignored.
~~~~
“You know,” Chloe addressed herself, “you’re being very rude.” Her double still ignored her. ‘Fine, she wants to play it like that.’

She walked over to her double, who had turned around and was now leaving the kitchen. Chloe waved her hands around saying, “Hello, exact twin of you asking for assistance.” The other Chloe kept walking and Chloe moved out of her way.

“She can’t see me.” Chloe shook her head. This made no sense. Every other person in every other dimension had been able to, so why not here?

She sighed and then took in the room again. Her eyes fixated on the door. Not the door to the kitchen, but the door that she had come through. It was still there, and it was still open.
Lex got more or less into his doubles face, leaning over the dinner table and supporting his weight with a hand on the shiny surface of the top.

”I want to know what this is, who are these people, and what are you playing at?” His voice was low and threatening as he looked directly in his doubles eyes.

Which were looking right through him, then away as his double's head turned towards the little girl.

”Sweetheart, your mother told me you set your doll-house on fire. What were you trying to do?” His doubles voice was warm and friendly, devoid of any hint of menace.

The girl looked up at his double, batting her lashes innocently, “It was an accident, daddy. Really,” the little girl weebled.

Lex's eyes widened and he turned away, running a hand over his head. His gaze fell on the door. The same one he'd entered through. It was still there, still open, beckoning him.

A. Go back through the door
B. Stay where they are

[BlueSabby]

The door remaining open seemed like a trick to Chloe. It had never happened before and it was, therefore, suspect. She walked away from the door and after two steps, it disappeared. She could hear her double humming to herself and followed the sound.

As she walked down the hall, she looked around the house. It was tastefully decorated. She wasn’t rich but she obviously wasn’t hurting for case, either. The wall that she was walking parallel to was covered with pictures. ‘Oh good, this should be helpful for getting some information.’

Chloe recognized some of the pictures. They were the ones that were currently on the mantle in her living room. As she traveled down the hall, she saw pictures of her high school and college graduations. She looked happy and Pete, Lana and Clark were in the pictures. There was also one of Lex and she after what she gathered was her college graduation from the colors of the cap and gown she was wearing. It was a candid shot. She was leaning against a tree and they appeared to be engaged in a heated conversation.

All of the pictures had small captions below them. Some were just names and years while others had more information. Most of them were in her own hand but the one of Lex and she was in Clark’s handwriting. ‘Lex and Chloe at it again.’

There were other random pictures. People from her first job. She and her friends in her first apartment. Towards the end of the hall another young man that she didn’t recognize seemed to be in a great deal of the pictures. He had a slight build, dirty blond hair and green eyes. In each picture he got progressively closer to Chloe.

By now, the humming had become actual singing, though Chloe couldn’t place the song. She was a bit distracted by her wedding picture. She was beaming at the camera and Blondie was in a tux standing next to her. There were quite a few pictures after that of the two of them on vacations and various anniversaries. She surmised that she had been married for about five years.

Turning around, she went to go and confront herself…not that it would do any good. The other Chloe was straightening up a solarium. It was winter and the view was breathtaking. Chloe’s house overlooked the Rockie Mountains and her mouth continued to gape open at the natural beauty of the landscape. In the backyard, there were a variety of ice sculptures. And, they were all of her. This was just getting weirder and weirder.
~~~~
Staring at the door, Lex evaluated his choices. He could either stay here and see what all this was about, or go back through the still open door. Now if he went back through the door, two things could happen. Either he landed back in the library, or somewhere completely else.

No matter what he did, there was no guarantee he'd find Chloe again. Squaring his shoulders, Lex made his decision. He stepped further away from the door and it immediately disappeared into thin air.

Lex turned back towards the table, once more observing the scene in front of him. His older double was still busy scolding his daughter while the woman on the other end of the table kept silently continuing her meal.

“Daddy, I swear it won't happen again, I was playing Superman and he had to save the people from the burning house...” the little girl tried to explain while her father listened silently, rolling his eyes at the superman part.

”Honey, you know you are not allowed to play with fire, unless either your mother or I am there with you. Where did you get the matches?”

It was weird listening to himself playing at being a father. And by what it looked like, he wasn't doing too bad. The girl looked with wet blue eyes up at his double, fiddling with her napkin.

”Dunno?” she wagered silently.

His double released an exasperated sigh and launched into what looked like it was going to be a longer lecture.

Lex turned away and left the room behind, planning to investigate and find out more about this weird dimension.

Outside the dining room, he found a long hallway, several closed doors on both sides of it. The walls between them were mostly bare, except for a few busts on ornate pillars set carefully in fitting places.

Shaking his head at the horribly stuffy decor, Lex ventured to take a look into the rooms.

Behind the first one, he found a typical guest-room. Another few doors down, what had to be the master bedroom.

He let his gaze wander around the room, taking in the king size bed, the wooden furniture, the large fire place. It looked like a page from 'Lifestyle' come to be. Impersonal and perfunctory. Lex didn't like it.

The next door he opened brought a smile to his face. It was obviously the little girl's room. Almost the same size as the master bedroom, but filled to the brim with toys, a large white bed with a bright canopy and overflowing with pillows. Stuffed animals littering along with other toys on the floor. At the right side of the room was a small door, that led into the adjourning room.

Lex walked over to it and stepped through. Directly into a study. By the way the desk was sorted and everything meticulously in its place, Lex didn't have to guess whose study this was.

Aside from the working area, there was a small leather couch on the opposite wall, and in the back of the room a pool table, some book cases and. Lex's eyebrow arched. A queen-sized bed against the far wall, covered with two pillows and a comforter that was still ruffled. It had recently been used. “Interesting.”
~~~~
Chloe watched as the other her picked up a picture of a little girl and carefully wiped the dust off of the glass. A smile graced her lips as she put the picture back down. Chloe narrowed her eyes, she hadn’t seen any signs that she had a child so who’s kid was that?

Not being able to ask any questions was incredibly frustrating. Chloe heard a door open somewhere in the house and her double sighed and then sat down in one of the overstuffed chairs that was in the room. She toyed with her wedding ring. A nice sized rock on a platinum band. Maybe her husband was loaded?

“Chloe,” she heard a male voice call out.

“In here,” her double called, trying to add some fake cheer to her voice.

Blondie appeared in the doorway and gave the other Chloe a smile. He walked over and kissed the top of her head before flopping down in a chair next to her. Her double looked over at him, clearly waiting for him to speak, but he didn’t.

He sighed and Chloe caught her double roll her eyes. “Tough day at work?”

The husband nodded. “It’s just so maddening. We’re supposed to be a team, work together, and I just know that no one wants me there. Whenever we’re given assignments, I always have to do the grunt work. The shit that’s not important enough for anyone else.” Her husband’s voice had taken on a distinctly whiney tone. ‘He sounds like a four year old.’ He sighed again and said, “No one appreciates me.”

‘Oh, good god! How could I have married this clown?’ Chloe wasn’t really into psychobabble or anything but this guy clearly had some self-esteem issues. She watched to see what her double’s reaction would be. She was fairly certain that the other Chloe was thinking the same thing.

Her double took a deep breath before she spoke. “Robert, I’m sure that that isn’t true.” He made some dismissing sound and Chloe saw that her double’s hands gripped the arms of the chair tightly. “If you weren’t important, you wouldn’t be going out on *any* assignments.” There was a long silence. “We’ve talked about this before.” Her voice had become low and soothing.

“Don’t coddle him,” Chloe yelled. But, of course, no one heard her.

“They never let me drive the plane,” Robert muttered.

“You don’t know *how* to *pilot* the plane, dear. I’m sure that Professor Xavier just doesn’t want to have to buy another one.” It was clear that her double was trying to maintain her temper.

But, what was all of this about a plane? What kind of business or team needed a plane at their disposal? This was all very odd indeed. She took in her husband’s appearance, he didn’t look buff enough to be some sort of covert international spy. Chloe was beginning to get a headache.
~~~~~
Lex sauntered further through the room, running a hand over the spines of familiar books that he knew from his own study in the mansion. He idly flicked the cue ball across the pool table and moved on when he heard voices coming from the other room.

He recognized his own voice, speaking in a low murmur, then a high tinkling giggle echoed through the kid's room. Lex stepped closer, leaning in the doorway to watch the scene in front of him.

“So we're agreed, no more setting things on fire?” He heard his alter ego murmur as he tucked his daughter into the huge fluffy comforter.

“Promise, daddy,” the little girl answered.

“Ok, now sleep so you can rip me out of bed with the sunrise tomorrow,” his double joked while he crawled his fingers spiderwalking over his daughters side, making the little girl explode in more giggles.

“Ok, night daddy, love you.”

“Night Lena, I love you too.”

Lex watched his double run a hand over Lena's brown curls and press a kiss to her forehead before he stepped away from the bed and crossed the room towards the door.

Lex stepped out of the way as his double stopped in the doorway himself, looking back at the small girl in the huge bed as he flicked out the light, then closed the door behind him, leaving it slightly ajar.

He followed at his double's shoulder, walking over to the desk where he watched himself going to work, efficiently and as silently as possible.
~~~~~~
Robert’s head whipped around to look at her double. “So, you’re on their side,” he snapped at her.

Her double stood up and looked at Robert, “Bobby, we’ve been through this more times than I’d care to admit. I’m not on anyone’s side.” She walked over to him and hunkered down and took his hands. “I’m just trying to get you to see their side.”

Robert sighed and ran a hand through his hair. “You’re right, I know its hard. It’s just difficult to feel like the black sheep.” He smiled down at her, “What would I do without you, Chloe?” He leaned down and kissed her gently on the lips. He pulled back a little and then wrapped his arms around her body and pulled her to him. He kissed her deeply this time and Chloe found that she couldn’t watch what was going on.

When she heard Robert’s voice again, Chloe figured it was safe to turn around. Both of them were on their feet and his arm was around her double. “I promise I’ll make it up to you somehow.” He studied her double’s face and then it looked as if inspiration struck him.

“I know! I’ll make you an ice sculpture.” He turned around and gestured to the backyard. He paused, “I guess I’ve been messing up a lot lately.” Her double looked at him pointedly.

Her double pulled away from him and walked towards one of the glass panes that separated them from the outside. “Yes, you have.” Robert waited for her to continue. “There’s no more room out there for your apologies.” As she spoke, she pointed to each sculpture. “That’s the time that you created a scene at Professor Xavier’s birthday, that was the time you forgot to pick my father up at the airport because you challenged Cyclops to a marathon chess match, and that one,” her double pointed to a very intricate and beautiful sculpture of her in a fairy dress, “it’s my favorite. It’s when you were drunk and accused me of sleeping with Logan.” She crossed her arms and looked back at Robert.

“But, that’s not what bothers me so much about it.” She spared another glance at the sculpture. “It’s that you made me that way. You huffed and puffed and made me into an image of a perfect, fairy princess. After all of these years, you really think that *that* is what I want to be? That using your powers to make me look like that would smooth over another one of our arguments?” Chloe could see that her double was at the end of her rope.

Her double laughed mirthlessly as she shook her head. “You don’t even know me.” She walked towards the door and stopped in the threshold. “Besides, it’s fucking November, there’s already enough ice out there.” She paused. “Don’t forget that we’re going to Lex’s tomorrow. Good night, Robert.”

Chloe was stunned by what had happened. Things were rotten in the state of Denmark, that much she was sure of. Obviously, her husband was some sort of emotionally challenged fuckup. And speaking of emotionally challenged……there was a Lex in this dimension. And they still knew one another. The day ought to be interesting. However, there was one thing that Chloe was confused about. Her double’s huffing and puffing comment made little to no sense. Maybe the next day would bring some clarity about that.
~~~~
Lex was still watching over his doubles shoulder, trying to discern what the progress reports he was reading said, but frustratingly unable to really read any of the words and numbers on it.

A knock at the door made both their heads snap up at the same moment and Lex was about to say 'come in' when he remembered that he apparently wasn't really part of this world.

His double stayed silent, but the door opened anyway. The woman from before stepped inside, her heels clicking obnoxiously on the floor. She stopped a few steps away from his desk, arms crossed and looking expectantly at his double.

”Erika,” she was acknowledged, his doubles voice low.

”I came to ask you about the gala tomorrow. Any special considerations?” The woman didn't even bother to lower her voice.

“No, as it is, all you will have to do is smooth up to a few of our business associates and play nice with the other wives, think you'll be able to do that?” His double still spoke in a low tone.

”Of course, it's not the first time and it sure won't be the last,” Erika huffed indignantly, inspecting her nails.

Her voice was already grating on Lex's nerves. Apparently, his double felt the same way.

”That'll be all, Erika.”

All of a sudden, the woman seemed to lose her cool veneer. “Don't you dare talk to me like I was some damn servant.” Her voice raised with every word. “I'm not some insipid trophy. Don't you ever forget that it was ME who...”

His double flew out of his chair and interrupted her mid tirade in a low hiss. “Lower your voice. Lena is sleeping in the next room and I will not have her woken up by your childish tantrums.”

Lex watched his double silently stalking to the connecting door, closing it soundlessly. All the while he threw a glare at the woman, who stood with an indignant sneer on her face.

Lex recognized the look as one he'd so far only used on business enemies many of them had almost peed in their pants when confronted with it.

Erika rolled her eyes at the look, her sneer becoming more prominent for a second before she shot back. “I don't give a fuck. If you insist on keeping your room next to her's you'll have to deal with any problem that might cause,” she stated coldly.

Lex watched his double narrow his eyes and draw closer to the woman, invading her personal space. “Careful, Erika. If you make such comments in public, people might start to doubt your facade as the loving mother. Now get out of here.”

Erika rolled her eyes once more before turning around to stalk out of the room.

”And do me a favor, leave Chloe alone this time. I don't care what you think, but she's a friend and I will not have my wife make an idiot of herself displaying needless jealousy. You know if I had an affair, it wouldn't be with her.”

Lex's eyebrows rose as he watched Erika stalk out of the room with a disbelieving snort. So obviously there was a Chloe in this world too, and they were friends. Hard to believe after what he'd just found out in the other room.

He watched his double cross the room back to the small side door and silently crack it open, peering through it before he closed it again as soundlessly as before.

Trying to take in all the new information was a welcome distraction from Lex's thoughts concerning Chloe. Apparently, all was not well in his future.

His wife was a cold hearted bitch, his house a pretty much lifeless print out of 'Lifestyle', his daughter ... it was hard to see himself as a father. But he seemed to pull it off. And his daughter obviously loved him for his devotion.

Lex busied himself walking through the room and inspecting things closer. There were three pictures on his desk, all of them from the little girl in the next room. The first was a picture of a little crying bundle in a mountain of blankets, the second of a toddler, spread out on the skin of a Persian tiger, biting the animal's stuffed ear. The third couldn't be too old. The girl had still looked like that when he'd seen her at dinner. In the picture she was sitting on a pony, grinning proudly as she held the western reigns.

Smirking, Lex moved on, noticing several pictures on the wall. Again, most of them were from his daughter. He came across a few pictures that showed Chloe and even Clark and Pete. Obviously graduation pictures. There was also a picture of Chloe with his daughter, sitting on a white porch swing, laughing about something or other. It was the centerpiece on that wall. Lex ran a finger over the frame.

So this was obviously a reality that showed him how life could turn out. Him and Chloe friends, but leading separate lives. It made sense his life would turn out like this. He wondered how Chloe's life had turned out in this scenario.
~~~~
Things had gone from bad to worse with Chloe. Things between Roberts and Chloedeux, as Chloe now thought of her, had been rather tense the next morning. They moved around one another and didn’t speak much. Chloe couldn’t take the tension and didn’t know how Deux could stand it. She guessed that Deux was used to living like this.

It was very annoying not to be able to talk to either of them. Chloe thought she could talk some sense into Deux, but that wasn’t possible. However, there was one point when she was glad that they couldn’t hear her. It was when some of Robert’s ‘coworkers’ showed up. Sure, they were all weird looking. That hadn’t bothered her. When lasers came out of Cyclops’s eyes….that was a different story.

Chloe screamed, plain and simple. He had been cold and set fire to the logs in the fireplace. Not to be outdone, Robert had then ‘chilled’ some of the drinks that he had given out. Deux left the room once that Storm chick started to make it snow. She grumbled something about a superpower pissing contest as she left.

So, she had married some sort of freak. Really, she wasn’t astonished by that turn of events. It just took some getting used to. The rest of the day was uneventful with Deux and Robert trying to be careful with one another. Chloe was disappointed that Deux didn’t discuss what had happened the night before. It seemed so unlike her. Maybe this is what her life had come to. Fighting with her husband and then never dealing with the fallout.

The two of them went through a silent dance as they readied themselves for what Chloe assumed was a ball Lex was throwing. They were both dressed to the nines and Chloe had to admit that Robert did look very fine in his tuxedo. She was wearing a deep green floor length dress with a slit up the side. It was sleeveless, but tasteful.

Chloe followed after them and tried to ignore the fact that they took some sort of stealth plane thing to Kansas. Professor Xavier kept up the conversation, being that neither Chloe nor Robert seemed particularly chatty.

They ‘parked’ close to Luthor Manor and a limo was waiting for them. Chloe could see Deux became more nervous as they got closer. Chloe started to wonder what, exactly, the relationship was between her and Lex in this world.
~~~~~
Lex worked cracked his neck for the hundredth time as he watched his alter ego fuss over his daughter, making sure her dress sat right, her hair was combed and her shoes tied.

He couldn't suppress the chuckle as Daddy went over the rules for the evening the hundredth time.

“No running, no cursing, and *don't* pester the local superheros ok? And don't forget, *we* know who they are, but the others don't. It's a very important...”

”Secret, I know Daddy,” the little girl interrupted with an eyeroll. “I just want to see Aunt Chloe and I promise I'll be good and after dinner I'll go to bed. You'll come to tuck me in, won't you Daddy?”

”Of course, sweetheart.” His alter ego straightened up and took Lena by the hand, heading for the hallway.

Lex followed silently, rubbing his neck. He'd spent the night sleeping in the desk chair after his double had settled into the bed on the far wall, making sure to leave the door between the study and his daughters room opened after he'd turned out the lights.

He hadn't gotten much sleep and was ripped out of his slumber with a jolt when the girl had bounded into the room and proceeded to jump up and down on his doubles bedside, cheerfully shouting.

”Good morning! Wake up daddy! We're going to have a party! Wake up! Aunt Chloe's coming! Wake up!”

Lex had pitied his double for a moment before he'd seen something that was absolutely out of character for him and more incredible than watching men fly. He'd watched himself crack his eyes open with a smile on his face.

The rest of the day had been rather uneventful. His double had stuck close to his daughter’s side and made sure to avoid his wife like the plague. Throughout the day Lex had learned that they'd have an annual gala, celebrating some thing or another and that Chloe was to attend, with her husband. That tidbit had come as a surprise to Lex.

He'd stashed the information away and waited patiently for evening to roll around. The time had finally come and now they were on their way down to the ballroom, waiting for the guests to arrive.

Lex stayed in the background, observing the arrival of people from a secluded spot on the sidelines.

His double made the rounds with his daughter, while his wife busied herself terrorizing the staff. How surprising.

As he saw the next couple enter, Lex had to keep his jaw in check. 'Damn she looks beautiful.'
~~~~~
When they entered the main hall of the castle, Chloe’s brow furrowed. It looked different. More cold, if that was possible. It was the new Mrs. Luthor’s taste, she guessed. ‘Another fine choice Lex has made.’ She couldn’t wait to see the woman. Though, she doubted she needed to. She could guess that she’d be a tall brunette, beautiful, yet devoid of any real feelings for anyone past herself. ‘Little harsh, aren’t we Chloe? Not like your husband is a prize.’

Deux linked arms with Robert, keeping up the appearance of a happy couple. A small child, the one from the photograph, was sneaking up and the couple and Chloe laughed at the exaggerated way the young girl tiptoed up to them. Once she got close, she hurled her body at the other Chloe.

“Lena!” The joy was evident in Deux’s voice as she hoisted the girl up in her arms. The motion did some pretty interesting things to her dress, but she was oblivious to it. Robert, and a few of the males in the vicinity, took notice, however.

Chloe could hear the girl chattering on and went closer in order to hear her better. “And then Daddy said that I couldn’t have any more matches.” Her double nodded at the girl, a wide grin on her face. “I think that that was wise.”

She placed the girl on the floor and said, “What a pretty dress that is!” Lena quickly spun around, making the skirt billow up. “Thank you, look what it can do.”

The other Chloe nodded and quickly tried to stop the motion of the girl. She was drawing a lot of attention from the onlookers. “That’s very cool, Lena. But, I don’t think you should twirl so much right now. You don’t want to wear the dress out.” She smiled down at her and then seemed to remember her husband standing at her side. “You remember Robert, right?”

Lena’s smile dimmed a little. “Yes, he makes ice.” Her eyes widened. “Daddy’ll be mad.”

Robert hunkered down and said, “We won’t tell him. Just be careful with what you say, little one.”

“What will you not tell me?”

Chloe turned towards the familiar voice. When she saw him, something clicked into place and she kicked herself for not putting two and two together. Lena was Lex’s daughter. He looked elegant in some overly expensive suit that was cut perfectly to fit his body.

Lex had followed his double as he'd approached the couple, lazily strolling after his daughter and coming to a halt in front of them just at the end of the conversation.

Chloe looked slightly older, but it was hardly noticeable. Lex watched closely how she and his double interacted, catching a weird look passing between them before both fell into a polite but otherwise aloof position, their faces neutral. “Hello Chloe, I'm glad you could make it. Robert.” He watched his alter ego nod to what had to be Chloe's husband, before turning back to his daughter.

Chloe watched for any tell as to what Deux’s relationship was to this Lex. But, both she and Lex kept up a professional, socially acceptable conversation. Robert joined in every now and again. It was apparent, though, that he and Lex did not know each other well. Lena piped up every now and again and that was when both the other Lex and Chloe’s faces broke from their frozen states. Chloe peered around the other Lex, hoping that her Lex was around. But, she didn’t see him. ‘Perfect, just great.’

If she couldn’t find her Lex, she didn’t know what to do. If a door appeared, did she take it? She put that thought out of her mind and watched the quartet interact with one another. There were all sorts of undercurrents passing between the adults, but nothing that Chloe could put her finger on.

The conversation stayed on acceptable topics, but Lex recognized the almost imperceptible tension in his doubles shoulders. The older Chloe was fiddling with a fold of her dress every once in a while, but it seemed she'd given up the habit of biting her lower lip when she was nervous.

Lex smirked, a weird sense of pride making itself felt inside before he squashed the emotion and continued observing the people in front of him. So far there had been no sign of the real Chloe anywhere.

Part of him had hoped she would appear with the doubles, but obviously, that had not been the case. After a while, Lex got bored with the conversation and left the quartet alone, wandering around the room.

After the eventless dinner, Lex followed his alter ego up the stairs as he carried the half sleeping Lena into her room. Lex busied himself looking around the room while his double got the girl ready for bed.

He was surprised to hear the door open with a soft snick and turned around immediately to find the older Chloe entering the room silently. His double didn't even turn around as he tucked Lena into her fluffy comforter.

Lex's eyebrow raised as he waited, curious as to what would happen.

Chloe had followed her double, not sure as to where they were going. She noted that the woman turned all of the corners confidently, and never paused. Her double opened one of the doors, not bothering to knock, and Chloe saw that it was Lena’s room.

The other Lex was tucking the small girl in. She was almost asleep but smiled when she saw Chloe. Lex moved back a little and Chloe sat on the edge of the girl’s bed. “You looked very beautiful tonight, Lena.” The girl’s heavy lids closed and the other Chloe placed a kiss on her forehead. She was looking at the little girl with such a strong sense of longing that Chloe felt something in her stomach twist.

“She’s gotten so much bigger.” Chloe knew that her double was addressing Lex, but the woman didn’t turn around to face him. Instead, she smoothed over Lena’s hair.

Lex watched a strange look come over his doubles face as he watched the other Chloe with his daughter. He stepped closer to hear the conversation between the two adults.

”She's growing up so fast. Sometimes I'm scared I'll miss too much of her life when I'm not right there with her.”

Lex watched as his other self step even closer to the bed, looking at his daughter with unveiled adoration and love.

“How about a drink in my study?”

The other Chloe nodded, but made no move to leave the girl’s side. She saw the other Lex gingerly place a hand on her shoulder and, though the other Lex couldn’t see it, her double briefly closed her eyes at the contact.

“Hope I’m not interrupting anything,” a seething voice came from the doorway.

Lex's gaze jerked from the couple to the woman in the door way. What had ever made him marry a woman like that?

“Erika,” his older self acknowledged her presence coldly, stepping away from Chloe and towards the door. “What do you want?”

”I was just going to let you know that I will be spending the night out,” she smirked, giving her words just a hint too much of suggestive tone.

”Whatever you feel is appropriate,” Lex answered back. “If that is all?” he trailed off.

”Of course, have fun with your *friend*.” Erika shot a cold glare in the other Chloe's direction before turning on her high heels and stalked away with a flourish.

Both Lex's breathed a sigh of relief as the older one closed the door and went straight for his study without another comment.

Lex followed his double, looking over his shoulder to see the double of Chloe give the girl under the blankets another pat before she followed his double, leaving the small door slightly ajar behind her.

His alter ego poured two glasses of scotch from a small wet bar in the corner behind his desk, handing one to Chloe before he walked over to the leather couch and settled down, motioning her to do the same.

Lex leaned back against the desk, watching the duo in front of him. Of course Chloe was the first to speak up.

Chloe was leaning against the desk so she could watch them interact with one another. The scientific, detached part of herself was curious to see what they would talk about. The personal side wanted to scream at both of them, asking how they had managed to get to a point where they were both in marriages to people who were so ill suited for them.

Her double ran her pointer finger along the rim of her glass before she spoke. “I’m sorry it’s been so long since I’ve come to visit. Robert,” the other Chloe flinched slightly, “he’s…we’ve..” she paused, “it’s complicated. But, isn’t it always.” Her double downed the liquid quickly. If Chloe had done that, she would have been coughing and making all sorts of faces, but her double showed no outward reaction.

Lex's eyebrow rose as he saw Chloe's double downing her drink as if it was something she did every day. It seemed that all was not well in her marriage either. 'Interesting'

He wondered what the problems were and if they'd get into it. He kept a close eye on his double as he took a sip of his drink, then handed the glass to Chloe.

”I take it he hasn't changed much since the last time I saw him?”

So obviously he knew Chloe's husband better than it had first seemed. By his tone he could tell that his alter ego was not too impressed with the man.

The other Chloe took the drink from Lex’s hand and drank it quickly. The other Lex watched her carefully and Chloe watched him. She didn’t have much of a tolerance and became totally honest when she had too much to drink. Her Lex had seen as much at the last party that Pete had thrown. Luckily, she had only told off one of her classmates that kept making lewd passes at her. She suspected that the Lex on the couch had this information. And, whether or not he was aware of it, he was entering dangerous territory.

“No,” Chloe said, she got up and poured herself another drink and then flipped off her shoes. “He’s still unsatisfied at work and blames everyone but himself. Then, he comes home, spouts his mouth off and pisses me off.” She paused, and then downed the drink. “He accused me of fucking Logan the other day.” The other Chloe ambled back to the couch and stood in front of Lex. “I told him that I would never cheat on him. But,” she sat back down on the couch and locked gazes with the other Lex. ‘No, don’t do it. Please…’ Her double didn’t listen.

“That’s not exactly true.” Her double waited for her Lex’s reaction.

Lex's eyebrows shot up as he looked incredulously at the other Chloe. His alter ego merely smirked and raised an eyebrow. “And are you going to tell me who you have in mind for the part of secret lover?”

The other Chloe chuckled, a slow, rolling sort of sound and Chloe wondered if she could really make that noise. She rolled the glass in her hands and then turned around, placing it on the table beside the couch. When she turned back to Lex, she scooted a little closer to him and then crossed her legs. Chloe couldn’t tear her eyes away.

The other Chloe leaned towards Lex and it was only because of the sheer silence of the room that she could make out what her double said. “I think we both know that yours is the only name that I’ve *ever* wanted to scream.”

Lex jerked back as he heard the Chloe double's words whispered into his double's ear. “The fuck?” It slipped out before he even thought about it as he pushed off from the desk, intent on leaving the room.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw his double catch the other Chloe's wrist to keep her from touching him, holding her hand captive. “Chloe, stop. You know that too much has happened between us.” Lex could still see the disappointed expression on his own, if slightly older face.
It had always been like that with him. Even if he could forgive a person who'd betrayed him, there was no way back and he'd never trust them again. Lex also saw the crestfallen expression on the older Chloe's face as her hand went slack in his doubles grasp.

Chloe saw the tears start to well up in her double’s eyes. She closed them, getting herself under control and then looked back at Lex. When she spoke, her voice sounded old and tired. “I’ve told you this over and over. It wasn’t about you, Lex. I never would have gone to,” she spat out the next word, “Helen to betray you. I didn’t even really *know* you then.”

‘Oh, god.’ Chloe now knew what Lex had seen. His reaction made sense now. Of all of the things for the fucking book to show him….

She saw the other Lex shaking his head and the other Chloe kept talking. “Can’t you trust me again?” She was begging now. When the other Lex kept his gaze even and level, her double snatched her hand out of his grasp. “How many times do I have to tell you I love you for you to believe it?” Her double was on a roll now. “I’ve loved you for over a decade and I’ve been your best friend. Haven’t I earned it back yet, Lex?”

Lex stopped on his way to the door, turning around to scrutinize the other Chloe. He was interested in what she had to say and more than surprised by her outburst.

When Lex turned away from her double, Chloe saw pain, no, pain was too slight a word for the look on her face, anguish overcome her features and she got mad. “She’s begging you and she’s obviously apologized a million times! It wasn’t about you! What more do you want from her?”

Lex's head snapped in the direction of the desk as he heard Chloe's voice shouting at him from there. He ignored the silent conversation that continued behind him in favor of Chloe's outburst in front of him.

”You really think that makes it better? You could have *told* me. You could have dropped a hint, wrote me a fucking anonymous letter! Instead you just walked out of there, with a parting shot and a smile leaving me to marry a fucking homicidal bitch!” He doubled back from his own outburst. He hadn't planned that. Since when did his mouth run away before his mind checked it?

For a moment, Chloe was left speechless. It was a combination of factors. Firstly, she could now see her Lex again. She hadn’t been expected it. Secondly, the actual emotion in his voice threw her off. Thirdly, his words gave her pause to think.

Ignoring the doubles on the couch, Chloe advanced on him. “I didn’t *know* that she was going to try and kill you, you ass! Do you really think that if I even *suspected* her of that, that I would have idly sat by and watched it happen? NO!” She shoved him in the chest. She was pissed that he thought that low of her. Lex grabbed her wrists stopping her motion. But, her mouth just kept on going.

“After seeing that you could have *asked* me what in the hell happened, but that’s too crazy, isn’t it? Actually communicating with someone else. Instead, you give me the silent treatment, all the while judging me for something that I didn’t do.” Chloe’s face was hot and she knew that she had turned red. But, she didn’t care. If Lex was going to hate her forever because of what he saw, there was little she could do about it. But, she’d have her say before the day was through, dammit.

“Excuse me? You are the most stupid intelligent person I've EVER met!” Lex seethed. “Don't tell me you didn't even take into *consideration* that she was planning something regarding me, after you just made a deal with her like THAT?” He stepped into her personal space, their noses inches apart. “Or do you think *I* am that stupid? Stupid enough to believe you had no idea that something was wrong, even though *you* asked her about me.”

Lex now had her wrists pinned to her sides and that was a good thing, too. If not, Chloe was certain that she would have slapped him. He was being impossible. “How was I supposed to know that she was going behind your back? With the information I had, it wasn’t out of the realm of possibility that the two of you were working together to figure out what in the hell Clark is!” Chloe didn’t bother to check the volume of her voice as she screamed directly into his face. “Her wanting to keep you out of what we were doing didn’t make that any less possible. Don’t insult my intelligence just because you’re the one that’s stupid to keep on marrying these whores that couldn’t care less about you!” She fought to get free from him but he held her tighter.

She stilled against him when another thought occurred to her. “I take it back, it’s not stupidity, its plain fear.” She saw Lex’s eyes narrow on her and she went on. “You can’t admit that you’re gay so you keep marrying these women as a front. Pretty sad and pathetic if you ask me. I hope your closet is nice and comfy.”

He was seriously tempted to laugh in her face, he would have, if the urge to wrap his hands around her neck and throttle her wasn't stronger.

”Wha...” He took a deep breath, trying to decide between strangulation and hysterical laughter. “Where..” Shaking his head he stared at her. “What the *fuck* are you talking about?” His grip around her wrists tightened again as he watched a superior smirk bloom on her face.

“I’m talking about the fact that that other Clark was obviously your boyfriend. I’m talking about the fact that you slept with some kid, some *guy*, in boarding school and then sold him out to his father. I’m talking about how *close* you and our Clark are.” Chloe ignored the dull pain that was in her wrists as she lowered her voice and said, “I’m talking about the fact that You. Are. Gay. And too little of a man to admit it, even to yourself.”

Lex released her wrists and gave into his first urge. Hysterical laughter. It was just unfathomable how Chloe, Chloe Sullivan and proud self proclaimed city girl could be so naive. “Smallville,” he chuckled, “Must've gotten to you bad,” he tried to suppress his hysteric laughter so he could talk reasonable. “I never would have thought *you* of all people would fall victim to the simple minded black and white perspective of the world.” He was still shaking his head, fighting the occasional outburst of laughter. This was just too ridiculous. “And in the closet, that's rich,” he added.

Chloe stumbled back as Lex spoke. She rubbed at her wrists, hoping that Lex didn’t notice that it had hurt her. That wasn’t the only thing that hurt. Chloe hated to be laughed at and thought of as a fool. Now, the one person whose opinion she was loathe to admit she valued above everyone else’s was not only laughing at her, but laughing hysterically.

The fight died out of her but she kept her face locked in anger. It was one thing for Lex to see her mad, it was another to let him see the pain that he caused her. It gave him too much power. And, he already had most of it. Part of the problem was that he was right. She knew that just because he had been with men, that didn’t mean he was gay. Lex would have tried anything in his younger years if it brought him pleasure. If only to get away for a moment from the pain that was locked in his own head and life.

When she had seen him with that boy, though, it had preyed upon her insecurity. Falling for yet another person who she couldn’t possibly dream of attaining. She kept her voice level as she said, “Enough. I get it. I’m wrong. I can’t be trusted. I’m small town. I’m stupid.” She looked over at their doubles who were having their own heated conversation. “That seems to remain constant wherever we go,” she murmured to herself.

Lex cast a look over at their doubles, seeing that they were having a heated, if much more silent discussion over at the couch. He shook his head and turned his attention back to their own fight.

”Summed up nicely, because yes. At the moment, you are.” Lex stated flatly. “Assuming that I am gay, just because you saw me with another man, giving me a lame ass excuses when you pride yourself on being smart enough to see through shady dealings and be able to play the ballgame in the same league as the Luthors. Betraying me *and* someone you called and still call a friend. Be honest Chloe, what do you expect me to say?” He asked, relaxing his stance and shoving his hands into his pants pockets.
He was done yelling. It didn't get him anywhere and Chloe needed to know these things. It had to be made clear where they stood.

“Nothing, Lex.” It was true. She hadn’t wanted Lex to back off and coddle her. Part of why she loved him was because he was brutally honest. She had just never seen the brutality focused on her. She wasn’t about to get into why she was researching Clark, either. Lex wouldn’t try to see her side of it, that much was obvious from what he had said before.

At least she could admit that he had made some valid points. Lex was too wrapped up in the way that everyone else had betrayed him in his life to even *consider* the fact that she hadn’t. He hadn’t given a second thought to damning her along with the rest of them. He didn’t see her any differently than anyone else who had, in his mind, fucked him over.

She crossed her arms over her chest and hoped that he didn’t pick up on the slight wince that she gave when the material of her shirt rubbed against her raw skin. “It’s clear what you think of me. You don’t need to elaborate anymore. I may be, as you’ve pointed out, simple minded, but what you said is clear enough even to me.”

Lex smirked as he watched Chloe getting defensive. It wasn't in the least threatening. He'd obviously found the right words to get to her, but it disappointed him that she was so fast to jump to her own, wrong conclusions. And somewhat irritating that she thought she *knew* what he thought of her when he himself didn't even know what to fucking think of her.

”Care to enlighten me? Because I merely stated facts, I never passed overall judgment,” he answered calmly.

Chloe felt some of her anger returning at his smirk. She doubted that Lex was having fun right now, but this clearly wasn’t bothering him anywhere near as much as it was bothering her. She had no intention of giving him more ammunition against her than he already had.

“No, I think that we’ve already said enough, don’t you?” Having Lex reiterate his low opinion of her…she couldn’t take that right now. She needed some space from him. She needed a place to crawl up into a ball and scream and cry or do whatever would help her right now.

Lex pulled his hands out of his pockets and lifted them in acknowledgement. “Whatever you say.” He turned back to the couple on the couch, shaking his head as he watched them resume their argument in low voices.

”It doesn't matter how I feel at this point anyway, Chloe. I have a family, a responsibility and you have your husband. Go home and let's forget this ever happened.” His double got up from the couch and walked towards his desk, passing between himself and Chloe. Which gave them both a clear view of his face.

He looked a lot older than he had only an hour before and regret was written all over his features as he slowly reordered papers and shifted them on his desk. Lex wanted to kick himself...well his other self for showing emotion so openly, forgetting that the only person his double assumed was in the room with him was behind his back and therefore couldn't actually see the expression on his face.

Chloe wistfully looked at the other Lex. Sure, he was rejecting the other her, but at least he gave a damn about her. Not that her double knew that. She looked over to the couch and saw the older woman start to cry. She wiped away a few tears before standing up.
“You’re right. You have your wife, I have my husband, we’re both happy. Why ruin our perfect lives?” She walked over and retrieved her shoes. She didn’t bother putting them on, just carried them over to where the other Lex was standing, his back to her.

“But, I’m not going to make another agreement to forget a night between us. I already did that once and look where it got us.” The other Chloe walked to the door as Chloe digested the new tidbit of information. “Tell Erika the party was lovely and let Lena know that I’ll be visiting her soon.” She fiddled with one of the straps of her shoes before saying, “I’ll check to make sure you’re out of town when I come.”

Her double didn’t even bother with a goodbye before leaving the room.

Lex closed his eyes along with his double as the other Chloe left the room. He knew what would happen and he knew he was helpless to stop it. Sure enough, it didn't take longer than a few moments before he heard the telling rustle of paper as his older double made a clean sweep over the desk sending the contents flying to the floor, hissing a silent fuck under his breath.

“I never dealt well with loss,” he remarked with a shrug as he opened his eyes and looked at Chloe's astonished face as her gaze went back and forth between him and his double.

“You didn’t lose anything, Lex, you gave it up.” She would let him twist her words and interpretation of everything else that was going on between them, but she wouldn’t have him mistake what just happened with their doubles.

A. Lex
B. Chloe

[BlueSabby]

Lex kept silent, not wanting to get into another argument. His eyebrows went up as Chloe threw her arms up in frustration and brushed past him glaring at nothing and everything.

Lex watched Chloe stomping...nay...striding out of the room with purpose. Shaking his head he stalked...nay...fluidly followed her, calling through the open door. “Where the fuck do you think you're going?”

Chloe whirled around, fully intending to tell Lex where he could shove it. She wasn’t his property and she could go wherever the hell she pleased. She was finished with the conversation and wanted to get as far away from him as possible right about now. She couldn’t be held accountable for trying to choke him otherwise.

Her plan was thwarted by the fact that Lex was nowhere to be seen. However, Chloe wasn’t alone. Looking around, she saw an audience full of people staring at her. When she noticed that there was a chair directly behind her, she sank down in it. Hearing her name being called, she turned her head and found herself looking at a smiling woman.

“I thought we lost you there for a moment.” The audience giggled and the woman, she was in her forties and was impeccably dressed said, “Now, let’s talk some more about your relationship with Lex.”

When Lex entered the room that was supposed to be Lena's he found himself standing in front of another couch and the door slamming shut behind him with a resounding bang. Chloe was nowhere to be seen.

In front of the couch sat a rather large tv set and as soon as Lex had flopped down on the couch, it turned on, the screen showing a studio setting not unlike the typical daily talk show. What surprised him about that setting was, that in the armchair next to the immaculately dressed female host sat Chloe.

Lex's eyebrow arched in interest as he leaned back into the chair and listened to what could become an interesting talk show.

Now, let’s talk some more about your relationship with Lex

Chloe slowly looked from the woman, to the audience and then back again. “I don’t have a relationship with Lex.” The talk show host tilted her head and gave Chloe a ‘now tell me something that isn’t a load of bullshit’ look. She amended her statement, “I’m not in a relationship with Lex. Is that better?”

The woman smiled kindly at Chloe. “So how is it that he affects you so much? When did this attraction to him that you mentioned earlier start?”

Chloe’s mouth dropped open and the audience laughed at her. “I never said that I was attracted to Lex.” When the audience started to murmur things Chloe realized that whatever her was here before had clearly made that statement. Deciding that she wasn’t going to get out of this one she sighed and said, “Fine, so I’m attracted to Lex, that doesn’t mean anything.”

“So what you're saying is that your feelings for him are simply physical? Well that sounded different just a minute ago.” The woman smiled mischievously. “If you need a reminder, here's a clip of what Ms Sullivan confessed to us, for everyone who just tuned in.”

A tv screen came up between the two chairs and the woman pressed a small button on the screen, bringing the clip to life.

Chloe watched another version of herself start to laugh and then say, “Of course, he’s got a great body…” She heard the women in the audience laugh, clap and some of them whistle. “But,” the other version of herself paused and seemed to be thinking. She looked back up at the host. “Linda, if he was only a pretty face, I don’t think my feelings would be even a quarter as strong as they are.”

Chloe buried her head in her hands as the small screen disappeared from her view. She could feel the Linda woman looking at her and wished that she could just disappear into the floor.

Lex's mouth had opened in a small oh as he'd watched the clip. He'd never thought that talk shows could actually be useful in any way shape or form, but this one was providing some information he'd never gotten otherwise.

More telling than the clip though, was his Chloe's reaction to it. She'd slapped her hands over her face instantly but he could see the blush creeping up her neck.

Linda leaned back in her chair smiling benignly. “So Chloe, why are you making it so hard on the both of you? What is it that makes you start a fight or run away whenever it seems that you two could get closer?”

Her head snapped up and she said, defensively, “I didn’t start that fight.” She paused and then added, “It just sort of happened. Neither one of us can admit that we’re wrong about anything most of the time. It makes it difficult to get anywhere.”

Now that wasn't true. He definitely could admit when he'd been wrong it just didn't happen that often that he actually was wrong.

Chloe had to admit that whenever anyone got even close to getting a real emotion out of her she would make some smartass comment or find an excuse to leave the room. Unless, of course, she started yelling at them. That was always an option. “He doesn’t make it easy all the time, you know?” She realized that she had said the words out loud when she saw Linda nodding at her.

Lex actually snorted at that, shaking his head. 'Course I don't make it easy, what does she expect 'prince charming'?' “Naive,” he murmured out loud. 'But that's what makes her so interesting, she's not a jaded bitch.'

Now that she was talking, it didn’t make much sense to stop. Besides, no one back in their dimension would ever see it, she was certain that this particular show didn’t exist. “I know I made some huge assumptions, but he made me feel like an imbecile because of it. I never wanted to feel that stupid again..not after Clark.” She had no idea if Linda knew who Clark was, but it didn’t matter.

“Plus, I knew that he was right, so that just made it worse.” Chloe leaned back in her chair. “This whole damn thing happened because of those fucking books. It was easier for me to just make Lex gay than face the possibility that he will screw over anyone he’s involved with in any way. Especially anyone who tries to get close to him.” Chloe looked down at her hands. “I can’t let that happen to me again.” She shook her head. “I can’t let *him* do that to me.”

Lex frowned. How could she compare him to that stupid boy? Now true, he wouldn't necessarily let her in on everything he did and maybe he'd fuck up once in a while, but again, what did she expect? He wasn't perfect.

And why was he thinking about all this anyway? He didn't even want a relationship with her, or did he? It would only complicate matters. 'What matters?' Well, it would... Lex honestly couldn't think of anything. Times had changed and Chloe wasn't a teenager anymore. His father was dead, his company was running smoothly, so what stopped him?

'I just don't know.'

Linda nodded along with Chloe's explanation. “That is a very valid point, dear. So I'm assuming that Lex and Clark are very much alike then?”

“God, no,” Chloe answered instantaneously. “Lex is more aware of other people in the universe existing besides himself, he’s more intelligent and doesn’t give preachy lectures on everything that’s wrong with you.” Thinking about her statement about Clark, she realized how it must have sounded.

“I didn’t mean to compare them in that way. I meant that Clark treating me so badly, and allowing him to do it, hurt pretty badly.” Chloe blocked out the humiliation and pain that she had felt every time he ran off to help Lana, leaving her in the lurch. “And I didn’t….” Chloe stopped abruptly, realizing what she had just almost said.

A look of glee was present in Linda’s eyes but Chloe ignored it and just went on. “I didn’t care about Clark in the same way that I do about Lex. Let’s just put it that way.”

Lex recognized the pitbull with a bone look in the talk show hosts eyes. And for once, he wasn't repulsed. He very much wanted to know the same thing that had grabbed her attention. 'Come on, ask her!'

“So what exactly are your feelings towards Lex then? You obviously were very strongly interested in Clark, so what is it with the, as you put it, more aware and less prejudiced Lex Luthor?”

Chloe knew that the woman was only interested in her ratings skyrocketing and cared very little about what she was about to admit. But, it didn’t really matter to her that much. She’d been having these damn feelings for Lex for longer than she cared to admit. Chloe couldn’t even remember when they changed. She just knew that one day, she had looked over at Lex and was astonished to find that she didn’t just admire him, she loved him. He had raised an eyebrow at her and she had quickly packed up her books and left the Talon. The next few days she had avoided him like the plague. It had taken a full month for her to accept that she really felt that way and it wasn’t just going to disappear.

“I can’t tell you exactly what it is about him. It’s all sorts of little, stupid things. The infernal way he’ll smile at you when he’s made a point, the way he can put up with what people think about him and almost convince you that he doesn’t care about it.” Chloe was unaware of the smile that had appeared on her face. “The way that he can put everyone in their place so effectively. He’s impressive to watch.” She shrugged.

“I admire the way he deals with everyone he comes in contact with. I think that’s how it started.” Chloe looked up at Linda, making sure her voice didn’t waiver. “I have a myriad of feelings for Lex, but I don’t think that you’re interested in all of them. So, I’ll answer your first question in the best, most direct way that I know how. Even though I know it can only hurt me and come back to bite me in the ass, I’m in love with Lex.” Chloe paused and the studio was so silent she thought she might actually be able to hear a pin drop if she was so inclined to test it out. She enjoyed rocking everyone back on their heels.

“Any more questions, Linda?” Her voice was far more playful than it had ever been with the woman. But, she had told the dark truth that she had been hiding for so long so the woman had already done her worst. Chloe didn’t have anything else to fear from her.
Lex was baffled. That Chloe had a crush on him was nothing new. He remembered the day in the Talon as clearly as she did. Seeing her storming off with a half ass excuse, all flustered and shaken over a small innuendo. Lex had had to hide the shit eating grin on his face in his cappuccino cup and remind himself that he was still in public.

But that her feelings really ran that deep... he would never have expected that. 'She's in love with me' ran like a senseless mantra through his mind as he watched Chloe smile victoriously and the satisfied expression on the hosts face.

”Thank you, very much Chloe,” she nodded congenially at her guest then turned abruptly to the camera. “Our next guest! The mysterious Mr. Luthor himself!”

After Linda had thanked Chloe, she had felt her body being pulled. When she opened her eyes, she found herself sitting on a couch in an empty room. The only other thing in the room was a television set. On it, she saw a close up of Linda. She said, “Welcome, Mr. Luthor. Now, I’d like to discuss the nature of your relationship to Ms. Sullivan.”

Lex smirked as he settled deeper into his armchair. He wasn't surprised to find himself here, however, this woman would have a harder time getting information out of him than she had with Chloe. This wasn't his first interview.

“Well, Chloe and I have known each other for quite a few years. When I first met her, she was editor of the high school newspaper in Smallville. She's a very smart girl, striving for a carrier in journalism, which tends to get her into trouble every once in a while. But generally, she knows how to deal with the consequences of her actions. I would say we have become friends through a mutual acquaintance.”

Chloe recognized the language and tone that Lex was using as the way that he handled the press. He wasn’t going to break down crying and reveal some secret to this woman. She thought that Linda was going to be very disappointed with this interview.

Linda flipped through some note cards. “I see. You two are friends. Other of your friends have questioned your sexuality in the past. Never with such an explosive display as we saw only a few moments ago, however.” She pushed a button and the small tv appeared again. It was frozen on a shot of Lex and Chloe both in mid yell. “Can you explain why Ms. Sullivan’s words provoked such a strong response?”

Lex smiled gallantly, inwardly grumbling about the rather unflattering still capture of him and Chloe. “I believe that Chloe was shocked to find out about some less known details of my past. It's one thing to hear about it, but a completely different thing to be faced with it, as they say,” he answered smoothly.

“That answers why she reacted so emotionally, but it still does not explain your actions, Mr. Luthor,” Linda shot back. “I think that we all know that the Luthors pride themselves on remaining in control in every situation, so, again, what was it about Chloe’s accusation that made you fly off the handle in such spectacular fashion?”

Lex chuckled. “Contrary to popular belief, or how the press likes to describe us in any case, some Luthors actually do have a temper and I have to admit I am one of those.”

Sometimes, interviews were a lot like chess games. You had to surrender a pawn to guard the queen and judging by the slightly sour expression that flitted over Linda's face, it had worked.

Even though Chloe knew it wasn’t likely, she was hoping that Linda would put Lex in a place a little. God knows that the woman had cornered her. Though, she was more interested in finding out the truth about how Lex felt towards her. If it took a freaked out funhouse talk show hostess to do it, well, beggars couldn’t be choosers.

Linda took out another note card, this one was bright red. The television screen went blank and she said, “So it was your propensity towards rage that caused you to go and visit your father in jail after the safe house that Ms. Sullivan was in exploded?”

Lex turned his face towards the tv, watching as they showed a wide angle of the prison slowly zooming in on himself nearing the bars of his fathers cell.

His father got up from the bench and neared the bars from the other side, stopping a few feet away from them with hands on his hips.

”Lex, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?”

His eyes narrowed slightly as he regarded his father with a cold gaze.

”This isn't a family matter, it's business. I just came to inform you that the board members have effectively replaced you as CEO.”

Lionel pursed his lips, nodding curtly. “I expected that much. But I'm sure everything will return to order once I am back out of this rather humble abode.” He swept one arm around the room in a grand gesture. “Now that they don't have their pretty little bird to sing for them anymore.” He added with a vicious smirk. “A shame that,” Lionel shook his head.

Lex watched as the camera pulled back, to show him with his hands in his coat pockets. It wasn't visible, but Lex knew he'd had them clenched into fists to keep him from trying to assault Lionel at that moment.

When he spoke, his voice was smooth as ice, and equally as cold.

”You honestly thought I wouldn't expect that move?” He shook his head.

”What are you talking about?” Lionel tried to look nonchalant, but Lex had watched his father long enough to know the small signs of nervousness.

”Well, let's just say, your surprise firework didn't quite go off as you would have planned it.” Lex intoned lowly, a small smirk tugging at one corner of his mouth.

”Lex I....” Lionel had taken another step towards the bars, but Lex raised his hand and gave him a cold glare.

”See you in court, *Dad*” He sneered at the man that had sunk so low it wasn't fathomable and turned around, leaving the hall with his coat tails billowing out behind him.

The screen faded to black as Lex leaned back in his chair, smirking to himself, his mind running a million miles a minute.

Chloe had watched the exchange avidly. She knew Lex well enough to know that he had been very close to beating his father within an inch of his life. His whole body had been tense even though his words had been carefully chosen and executed. Though, Chloe wasn’t sure if the visit had to do with Lex’s need to show his father that he was just as smart as he was or if it was out of some sort of feeling for her. Or both.

“Now, Lex,” Linda said as she crossed her legs, “I don’t mean pry, but it seems to me that it was the comment about Chloe that made you lose your temper.”

Lex's smirk didn't falter, even though his mind was still racing. “It was the complete disregard that my father showed for trying to kill someone I consider a friend. The way he referred to her was more than derogatory.” He zeroed his gaze in on Linda's eyes. “I don't have many friends, Linda. I am willing to do anything to protect them and don't react favorably if they are threatened or disparaged.”
Chloe didn’t doubt the legitimacy of Lex’s words but…..there was something else going on. She could see that he was quickly tiring of this line of inquiry. She knew that Lex could hold his own during any interview, and they usually lasted more than the few minutes this one was running. The only explanation was that the line of questioning was bothering him.

“Right,” Linda said, disbelief clearly evident in her voice. “So, I suppose that you would have gone and said the very same things to your father if the lovely Ms. Lang had been put in such danger. Being that you and she are friends in the same way that you and Chloe are. Tell me, Mr. Luthor, have you had erotic thoughts about Ms. Lang as well?” She pressed a button and a freeze frame of the doubles in the mirror appeared on the screen. With another click of the button, Chloe’s image was replaced with Lana’s. “So, something like this?”

Lex regarded the image on screen for a moment with an expressionless face. 'Lana?' and the next thought was 'Not enough scotch in this world....' He averted his gaze from the picture and the disturbing mental image back to the woman in the chair next to him. “If you are asking me if I am attracted to Chloe, as a matter of fact I am. She's a very attractive person with many admirable traits, however I fail to see what concern of yours this is.”

When the image of Lex and Lana had appeared on screen, Chloe had come very close to gagging. There was something wrong and profane about it. She was glad to see that Lex agreed with her. And he found her very attractive. She supposed she already knew it from their doubles, but hearing Lex actually admit it out loud…..it made it more real.

“My concern, Mr. Luthor, is for the truth.” She looked over her audience and then turned back to him. “That is all I am after. For myself, my viewers and for you. We all know the history of your family and the pain that you’ve had to endure.” She paused for dramatic effect. “I just want to know why you would deny yourself something, *someone*, that could make you happy. Especially after your numerous failed marriages. Is that what it is? Are you frightened about not being able to make it work with Chloe?”

Lex exhaled a chuckle, tilting his head to the side. “Since you are so well informed, you should also be aware that I have not been the cause for the failure of those marriages. So I can assure you that I am not afraid of any possible relationship that might come.” He spread his hands slowly before bringing them back together, linking them over his lap.

“I’m assuming that you’re referring to your wives’,” Linda paused, looking for the right words, “homicidal tendencies when it comes to you?”

Lex nodded curtly. “You assume correctly.” He had an inkling where this was going, but Linda would be surprised what happened if she kept poking in that particular nest of hornets.

“Dr. Bryce particularly seemed to get under your skin. Is that because you cared the most for her or because you were the most fooled by her?” Linda leaned back in her chair, awaiting his response.

Chloe winced at the mention of Helen’s name. Linda didn’t know that she was tempting fate…but she would soon find out.

Lex's eyes narrowed. “Have you ever been blinded by love, Linda? It has the amazing ability to change the person you are completely. It's only when you take a step back, remove the cloak of emotions, that you are able to see a person’s faults and shortcomings. Even the most cautious can be blinded by love, I don't think anyone is safe from that.”

"Are you speaking about Helen or Chloe right now, Lex?" She leaned forward and narrowed her eyes. She would get her answer.

“I am talking about love in general, Linda. The principle remains the same, no matter who the person.” Lex had to stifle a grin as he watched the woman getting increasingly irritated with his avoiding answers.

Lex settled back and watched the meeting between Helen and Chloe with a bored eye. He knew what had been said and the materials that had been exchanged. He remembered Chloe's dismissal of Helen's evasive answer and her nonchalant ignorance of his treacherous wife's comments. “I would have judged a betrayal of that kind the same coming from every other person,” he stated flatly, half way through the clip.

Linda raised her eyebrows. “After all that we’ve discussed and what I know about you, I believe that you are lying, Mr. Luthor. However, you are used to being evasive and defensive so it’s no surprise.” She turned back to the screen. “What you may find surprising is the ending of the meeting. While our library is impressive, some of the books are not complete. Specifically, the ones that you and Chloe were leafing through.”

Chloe’s brow furrowed. It hadn’t occurred to her that Lex hadn’t seen the full meeting between herself and Helen. She thought more about what Linda had just said. She was right, the books had only shown them bad things. Thinking back to the meeting, she tried to think of what Lex may not have seen. When she remembered, her stomach sank. It wasn’t something bad, it just wasn’t something she wanted Lex to hear or see.

Lex's expression showed mild curiosity, but he wasn't really buying too much into what Linda said. She obviously belonged to the Powers that Be in this place, so of course she knew about the library and everything else. However, why should he believe there was more to the meeting, when he'd seen Chloe and end it and walk out of the room. “And what else would there be?”

“This,” Linda said, gesturing to the screen. The audio of the tape filled the stage.

Chloe got up from her seat and said, “I believe our business is done, Dr. Bryce.” She started for the door and said, “But in your case, I would be very careful, too.”

She stopped before exiting the room. “If you try, or succeed, in harming Lex, it isn’t his family that you should fear. You will have me to deal with. I may not look like much, but I promise that you will feel a great deal of pain before I’m done with you.”

Chloe then left the room.

*******
The television went blank and Linda turned back to her interviewee. “Both you and Ms. Sullivan are incredibly intelligent people. However, you both have untold depths of stupidity. Especially when it comes to trusting one another?” She gestured to the television. “I promise you that that tape was not edited, that it shows was truly happened. I suppose that you will tell me that it changes nothing, that you still can’t put your faith in her?”

Lex stayed silent, processing the new information. Instead of coming to him about it, Chloe had threatened Helen. Interesting. Why hadn't she brought that up when they'd fought, though? Unless Chloe thought that he had seen that part of the tape and just didn't care about it.

Did this change his opinion? Lex tried to reverse the situation in his head. What if it had been him in her shoes? For the first time it also occurred to him that he might not have believed Chloe if she'd told him about Helen's dubious intentions. He'd been so besotted with the idea of 'love' that he'd ignored more solid evidence before in favor of Helen's word. What if Chloe had come to him and told him what happened? It was likely he would have sent her away and even more likely he would have turned against her, since back then, he'd still considered Clark his best friend.

He would never admit all this out loud of course. Important was the fact that Chloe had in fact done something about Helen's vague threat. She had turned around and warned her. Of course Helen had ignored that warning, since Chloe wasn't really in a position to do anything and Helen knew that. But Chloe had cared. She hadn't dismissed the threat as Lex had thought. She cared about him enough to put herself in a dangerous place. Helen could have turned around and gotten rid of Chloe at any given moment. Knowing about her relations with Morgan Edge, Lex knew that had been a likely possibility.

So could he still consider what Chloe had done a betrayal? Looking at it from the new perspective, the only person that Chloe had in fact betrayed was Clark. And Lex didn't give a rat's ass about that. So where did that leave them? Could he trust her? There was still the very clear possibility that one day, Chloe would turn around to betray him, like she had Clark.

Then again, it had taken a lot to get her to that point and Lex didn't think he could ever be stupid or ignorant enough to fuck up on the grand scale that Clark had. So in the end it depended on him for the most part if he had Chloe's loyalty or not.

He had unconsciously steepled his fingers under his chin, staring of into the distance while he thought, his face impassive to everyone else around him.

She had tried to give Mr. Luthor a moment to mull over what he had seen and her question, however, after a full minute went by without him speaking, Linda became impatient. She hadn’t expected him to fold and confess his feelings for the young girl, but some reaction would be nice.

“Should I rephrase my question, Mr. Luthor?” She folded her hands in her lap to keep herself from reaching over and shaking the man.

Chloe watched the exchange on the screen with great interest. By now, she was on the edge of the couch, if she moved any further forward, she would end up on the floor. Her eyes bored into the pixilated image of Lex on the screen. Not for the first time, she wished she could read minds. Then again, her little foray into getting the truth out of people hadn’t gone over so well.

It also wasn’t anyone’s mind she wanted to get into. It was Lex’s. She knew that they both played games with one another, trying to one up their opponent. It had been fun, at first, but now she just wished that they could have a conversation where they both weren’t hiding behind their words, masking what they actually felt for one another. Even if the worst case scenario was true, if he just found her attractive but nothing more, she’d be able to deal with it and move on. Stuck in this limbo wasn’t good for either of them. Something had to give.

When Linda's voice penetrated his ears again, Lex looked up and fixed his gaze back on her. "I don't believe you are doing yourself a favor insulting Chloe's or my intelligence, Linda.” He paused as he leaned back in his seat. “And as for your question, this new footage does change things.” He wasn't sure yet how far that change went, but again no one else needed to know that much. “Now, if you don't have any more questions, I have other things to attend to and I would appreciate it if we could end this interview shortly.” He folded his hands in his lap, waiting.

Linda gave him a measuring look. “I don’t believe that you are doing yourself, or Chloe, a favor by being so stubborn, either. I was only stating the truth, as I see it. I would have thought you would appreciate such candor, Mr. Luthor. It was Chloe’s lack thereof that made her so unappealing to you. But, I do believe that you are correct in one thing, it is best that we end this interview soon.” She turned back to her audience. “However, I believe that we’re missing something, aren’t we?” The audience clapped and a grin surfaced on Linda’s face.

The look on Linda’s face was very unsettling to Chloe, as was the audience’s reaction. She knew what the woman had planned and immediately got up off of the couch and quickly ran her eyes over every wall, looking for anything that may be a door, hole, crevice or trapdoor that she could crawl through. She didn’t see anything. “Dammit,” she muttered.

She started to get dizzy and looked back towards the screen. “Ladies and Gentleman, I think that it’s time we bring our first guest back. Perhaps we can get these two lost souls to come to some sort of peace.” The audience broke out in raucous applause and Chloe’s sense of vertigo increased. She looked down at her hands and watched as they started to become less solid. After a few seconds, she could see the floor through her hands. She closed her eyes and felt a strong tug on her whole body. When Chloe opened her eyes again, she winced at the bright lights of the studio. Linda was sitting on her right and Lex was on her left.

Lex watched Chloe appear, first like a specter, opaque, slowly becoming more solid until she was sitting next to him, a sour expression on her face, glaring at the talk show host. “I'm assuming you got to watch the show?” he murmured in her direction.

Before Chloe answered Lex, a thought occurred to her. If she had gotten to watch his interview, he had most likely been able to watch hers. She felt sick. Lex had seen her admit that she was in love with him. But, she’d deal with that later. For now, she would focus on keeping her shit together so she didn’t lose it in front of an audience. “Yes, I did.” She thought that keeping things simple was the best way to go. Especially with that harpy Linda looking for any opening in which to attack.

Linda looked between the two decidedly uncomfortable guests. But, that wasn’t her fault, these two had come on her show for a specific reason. She was just trying to help them to the best of her ability. “So, Lex, now that Chloe is here, is there anything you wish to share with her?” She wanted to leave the question open to his interpretation. She was certain that he would say no, but she had to try.

Lex looked sharply at Linda, arching an eyebrow. “With her, yes. With her, you, the audience and whoever else might be watching this? No,” he answered coldly.

Again, the look on Linda’s face caused Chloe to cringe. She looked slightly deranged, yet terribly happy. “Well, I’m sure that can be arranged, can’t that?” She turned to the audience. “Ok, where should we send them?”

It was mass chaos. Chloe couldn’t even pick out what some people were saying. The people were going buck wild. She picked up one man’s booming voice call out, “Mars” and another woman screech, “Paris” and, she thought, a small child peep up, “Fairy land.” This was giving her a headache. She tried to tune out the voices as she rubbed at her temple.

Lex looked over the audience with a skeptical eye. None of the directions that he picked out of the crowd's yelling pleased him. “If I may make a suggestion myself. I would like for us to go to my mansion,” he projected his voice over the roaring of the audience.

Linda gave Lex a patronizing smile. “I’m sure you would, Mr. Luthor. However, I’m sorry to report that none of these fine people suggested that destination.” She looked over her captive audience and said, “I heard some very good suggestions. One struck me as a very good idea. So, I believe that our guests should go to,” she paused and a faux drum roll sounded, “Tara.” She shouted the last word.

Even though Chloe’s head hurt, it snapped up when she heard where she and Lex would be forced to go next. She groaned and then felt the dizzy feeling again. Closing her eyes, she just hoped that they wouldn’t be under siege when they poofed into the old South.

Lex frowned as Linda shouted 'Tara'. Wasn't that the plantation from that old romance novel. He felt a tug pulling at his entire body and everything seemed to go black for a moment.

When he opened his eyes again, he found himself at the bottom of a large staircase, facing Chloe. Her outfit had once again been fitted for the occasion. A long flowing gown with a corset that made breathing normally probably a tad uncomfortable, but gave her a cleavage that captivated Lex's attention for a long moment.

”Are you ok?” He asked, since he didn't really want to comment on her clothes.

When she pulled in a deep breath, Chloe felt a sharp pain. ‘Ok, so no doing that again.’ She looked up at Lex, he was decked to the nines in old school Southern gentleman garb. He even had a cravat on and his coat had tails. “I’m fine,” she answered, “I just hope that I don’t have to run too far or fast in this getup.” She avoided his eyes, instead looking -up the stairs and as far down the hall as she could. This place, at least, had tons of doors so she didn’t think that they’d be stuck here for long.

Lex winced in sympathy as he watched Chloe's flinch. Still, they had been brought here for a purpose and Lex didn't want to risk being pulled back into this insipid talk show.

”I meant it, you know,” he started.

The sound of Lex’s voice brought her attention back to him. “What?” She was a little confused. Did he mean that the new information changed things, that he actually wanted to discuss this with her? He’d have to be a little more specific. She cleared her throat, “Which part?” She looked around the room, hoping to find somewhere for them to sit.

Lex followed her gaze and didn't find anything other than the stairs in their near vicinity. “Both.” He motioned to the stairs, holding his other hand out to Chloe. She would need any help she could get to sit down in a dress like that. “I didn't know before that you had called Helen on her evasive statement.” He helped her sit down on the bottom stair, arranging the skirt to make room for himself. “It wasn't very wise to threaten her like that though, she could have had you killed.”

Chloe shrugged one shoulder. She knew that he was right, and that very thought had occurred to her later. But...”I wasn’t really thinking about myself at the time.” She found that the best way to feel like her torso wasn’t in a vice was to sit up as straight as possible. She added, “You know me and my temper.” She gave him a small smile, trying to defuse some of the obvious tension between them.

“You can say that,” Lex smirked.

”I saw your interview.” It was seemingly a non sequitur , but Lex's mind was as always five steps ahead of the actual conversation. “What you said in it, surprised me,” he admitted.

Suddenly, the stairs that they were sitting on became too small for Chloe’s liking. And, she was certain that it had to do with the turn that the conversation had taken. Briefly, Chloe closed her eyes, trying to steel herself for what she’d be forced to discuss. She considered trying to put it off until later, blather something about how they should try to get out of there, but she thought that that would do more harm than good. “I figured as much.”

“And you think that if you had a chance with me, not that you believe you do, but IF you had a chance with me you'd end up being hurt?” Lex summarized as he leaned back, bracing his hand on one of the stairs behind him.

Putting a hypothetical spin on the situation seemed to help a little bit. Chloe found herself relaxing and nodding along with what Lex said. “I don’t think that it really has much to do with *you*, either. It’s just that every time that I’ve put myself out there I’ve either been attacked by a meteor freak or have my heart stomped on by a meteor freak that we are both acquainted with.” She looked over at Lex’s relaxed pose and wondered if he really felt that at ease or was faking it. “I don’t really have the best track record where the opposite sex is concerned.”

He chuckled under his breath. “And mine is that much better?” Lex shot Chloe a sideways look.

He still wasn't sure what exactly his feelings towards Chloe were, only that there were a lot of them. That didn't mean he had to commit himself to anything yet. However there was one thing she should know.

“In any case, what I wanted you to know is that I understand what you did and why you did it. And it's ok.”

Her head snapped up at his words. It must have taken a lot for him to have said that. He wasn’t admitting that he was wrong, he was doing more than that. She noticed that he hadn’t broached the subjects of her feelings for him, but that didn’t matter to Chloe. Knowing that he knew that she didn’t go against his back was enough for now. “Thank you, Lex. That means a lot to me.” She looked down at her hands, surprised to find the nails manicured and shaped. “More than you know,” she murmured.

She looked back up at him and flicked a curl out of her face. “So, I guess we should try and get out of here.” Her voice lifted at the end so it came out more as a question instead of a statement. If Lex wanted to talk about anything else, he was free to. She just wasn’t sure what he preferred.

Lex nodded and got up from the stairs, taking a look around. Aside from the uncountable doors downstairs, a new one had appeared at the top of the staircase where it divided in half, one side leading left, the other right.

“So, which door to take milady?” He asked as he offered Chloe a hand up.

A. Go up the stairs
B. Go to the doors down the hall

[BlueSabby]

Using Lex’s hand for leverage, Chloe was able to hoist herself up off of the stairs. She wondered how much extra weight the contraption that was passing as her dress added on to her frame. “Well,” she murmured, “I’m sure that whatever door we take will be the wrong choice.” She heard Lex chuckle and she looked down the hall. The whole set up of door after door after door did not appeal to her. Besides, being that the door on top of the stairs had magically appeared, it was pretty obvious which way they were supposed to go.

Chloe tilted her chin in the direction of the door at the top of the stairs. “I say we go that way. It may lead to certain death but that would be a relief compared to having to wear this getup.” An idea striking her, she looked up at Lex and gave him her biggest smile. “Wanna trade?”

Lex looked up and down her dress arching one eyebrow. “Not a chance,” he stated flatly. He'd never been into drag, but if he ever had to wear a woman's outfit for whatever out there reason, it sure wouldn't be something like that contraption. “Come on, let's get moving.”

He started up the steps, keeping a hold on Chloe's hand as he jogged up them. Sure the collar of his suit was a little tight around his throat, but it was nothing he wasn't used to from his evening tuxedos. He felt Chloe lagging behind and turned around to find her breathing hard, well as hard as she could in the corset. “Do you need help?”

It took more than a few moments for Chloe to catch her breath before she was able to answer Lex. The dress had been uncomfortable when she wasn’t moving in it, now it felt as if it were squeezing the life out of her. ‘Then ask him to help you.’ Chloe knew that she was being stubborn and stupid, but couldn’t help the words from coming out of her mouth. “No, I should be ok. Just slow down a little.”

Asking for help was something that she did not excel in. Also, she didn’t want to live up to the stereotype that she was now an actual image of. The helpless woman who needed a big strong man to swoop in and rescue her. It reeked of Lana.

Lex gave her a calculating look, knowing full well that her stubborn streak had just prevented her from asking for help. He looked at her, then up the stairs. They weren't even halfway there. That was weird, he could have sworn the staircase wasn't that long before. He turned his head back to Chloe. “Alright, if you're sure.”

Slowing his steps, he continued up the stairs, looking down at his feet as he kept walking. When he heard Chloe again start to wheeze behind him and turned his gaze up to look at the top of the stairs, they still didn't seem much closer to it. He paused to let Chloe regain her breath, glaring at the offending stairs.

Narrowing his eyes, he took another step, watching the last stair on top closely. Nothing happened. He took another step, and another, and sure enough. It seemed like the stairs seemed to grow, two new steps added to the one he had focused on. He turned back to Chloe who was still trying to regain her breath. “This is ridiculous.”

She had heard Lex grumbling to himself but had instead been focusing on not ripping the dress off of her body. She saw it as her only choice. When Chloe sensed Lex looking back at her, she finally looked up…and saw that they were no closer to the top of the stairs.

“But, but,” she panted out, “that’s cheating!” Her voice had taken on an indignant tone. This wasn’t fair. They were doing what the damn place wanted them to. At least, they were trying to but the stupid funhouse/ninth ring of hell wouldn’t allow them to get to it.

Taking a deep breath and ignoring the pain, she determinedly jogged up a few of the steps, passing Lex, and watched as more were added on to the top. “That is so rude.” Chloe was really upset by this development. She was trying to play by the rules but this place just kept changing the rules on them. With a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach Chloe realized that Lex may have to help her if this kept up. She climbed another step….and noticed that a new one didn’t appear.

Chloe murmured, “You have *got* to be kidding me.” As she took another step, she thought, ‘I should just let Lex help me.’ Again, no new step appeared. She was fuming. So, this place wanted her to eat crow, that was it? It wasn’t as if she had been humiliated enough already?

Slowly but surely, he was losing his patience. Counting to ten didn't help in this place. Taking a deep breath, he tried to think. What was the problem with the stairs? Well the next steps hadn't appeared on the first new step he'd taken and for every 3 steps he took, 2 were added, which means they 'could' reach the end of the stairs, but with Chloe being as slow as she was at the moment, it would take hours. Of course she wouldn't ask him for help, because she was too stubborn to do so. He narrowed his eyes. “How much do you weigh?”

She knew where he was going with the question and ignored it for the moment. She took another step, this time thinking that there was no way in hell she’d allow Lex to help her up the stairs. When her foot landed on the step, at least ten new stairs appeared.

Lex looked up the stairs, his eyes widening as he watched almost a dozen stairs appear on top. He turned back to Chloe, looking at her, still pointing at the stairs on top. “Did you just do that?”

“I’m afraid so,” Chloe answered, honestly. Looking back down at Lex she explained, “This part of the trip is a lesson about my almost pathological inability to ask for help.” Biting the bullet she said, “Lex, this dress is killing me. I can barely breathe and it’s very painful for me to walk up the stairs.” She looked him dead in the eyes. She knew that if she messed this up they could be here forever. “Will you please help me up the stairs?”
Lex suppressed the smirk, knowing that he'd probably have to face the same challenge sooner or later. He nodded shortly and walked the couple of stairs up to Chloe. “Alright, hold your arms up.”

As Lex approached her, Chloe did as requested. She looked down the stairs and saw that they were pretty high up, which didn’t help her mental state. What if Lex dropped her? She attempted to put those thoughts out of her mind and gave Lex a tight smile.

Lex smiled back and stepped closer. In one swoop he'd hoisted her up and over his shoulder, holding her skirt tight around her legs, her upper body dangling down from his back.

As Lex made his way up the stairs, Chloe was proud of herself for keeping quiet. She watched as the bottom of the staircase got further and further away. The only problem with the situation was that she couldn’t see the top of the stairs and didn’t know if they were actually making any progress. After another few moments of silence, Chloe spoke. “Did it work?”

Lex tried to regulate his breathing before he spoke. This dress must weigh a ton. At least the top of the stairs was coming closer, finally. “Yeah.” It wasn't more than a dozen steps now, then they'd be on the top of the stairs and he could drop Chloe back on her feet. He wasn't out of shape or anything, but it wasn't every day that he had to carry 160 pounds uphill. “Almost there.”

Chloe nodded. She didn’t want to distract Lex anymore. She was positive that carrying her up the stairs wasn’t a picnic for him. She could hear that his breathing was becoming more labored as they went on. Finally, she saw that Lex’s feet were now planted on a landing instead of the staircase. She waited for him to get his bearings instead of just trying to hop off of him.

Taking another deep breath, he bent down until Chloe could put her feet on the ground. After she'd shifted her weight back on her own legs, Lex almost felt like he would lift from the ground for a second before he regained his normal equilibrium. He still didn't trust his lungs enough to say anything. Instead he leaned back against the banister shooting an evil glare at Chloe's dress.

Chloe felt like she should apologize or something. It wasn’t as if she wanted to ask for help or risk Lex throwing his back out. But, she just let him stare her dress down as he got himself together once more. “Thanks. I’ll repay the favor if the opportunity presents itself.” It seemed that Lex was still struggling with getting his breath back, and she was sure that the constricting cravat had to do with that.

Lex was always well put together and Chloe had never seen him fiddle with any part of his clothing either when he was in the Manor or in public. So, it probably didn’t occur to him that he could loosen the neckwear and get some more oxygen into his lungs. Chloe stepped forward and gently took hold of the material. “Hold still.” She focused on figuring out how the damn oldschool necktie worked and after a few curses, loosened the material. “Might be easier to breathe now.” She quickly stepped away from Lex, knowing that he liked his space.

Finally being able to take a full breath, Lex lifted his death glare from the dress and forced a quick “Thanks,” through his throat. Damn, he really needed to get himself back under control. Since the tie was already loose, he opened the top two buttons of the high collar shirt to go along with it and managed to get his breathing back to normal. “Try the door, let's get out of here.” As Chloe turned his back to him to open the door it occurred to him that he hadn't even flinched when Chloe had invaded his personal space and put her hands to his throat. Weird. He couldn't remember the last time he hadn't had to force himself to allow physical contact of that sort.

Chloe opened the door, gasped, and closed the door again. Her mind had to be playing tricks on her, that was the only explanation. Then again, what she had seen would go along with the theme that they were playing out right now.

She opened the door and the view had not changed. Clear as day, there was a yellow brick road stretching out in front of her. In the distance, she could hear the distinct singing of the Lollipop Guild. She stuck one of her feet through the threshold and watched as a ruby red slipper appeared on her foot. Chloe started laughing and then stepped through the door. This one might be fun. Plus, she couldn’t wait to see who Lex would turn out to be in this one.

Lex frowned as he stepped up behind Chloe and straight onto a yellow brick road. The door behind his back vanished and was replaced with the very same road. Chloe was laughing hysterically and Lex got the distinct feeling that something was not right in the state of Denmark. “Chloe, where the hell are we?”

Instantaneously, Chloe stopped laughing. Lex did paint a pretty amusing picture, but she couldn’t believe that fact that he didn't know where they were. “Please tell me that you’re kidding.” When Lex just kept looking at her she said. “The land of Oz. You know as in the books, movies and cultural phenomenon?”

After she spoke, she concentrated on who the funhouse had decided Lex was. She scowled at its choice. He was the Tin Man. She supposed that it fit, sort of. However, she wouldn’t go far as to say that Lex had no heart whatsoever.

Lex cracked his brain, trying to make a connection. Land of Oz... “As in the wizard of Oz, that kids movie from the late 1930's?” Well if he remembered correctly.. “So we're definitely not in Kansas anymore, huh?” He smirked, or tried to, there was something wrong with his mouth, reaching up he heard a suspicious creak. When he looked down at himself, he saw that his hand was now solid steel. Jerking his head back up he saw that Chloe's dress had changed into a blue checkered knee length dress with poofed white sleeves. “Ok, this is not funny.”

Chloe begged to differ with Lex. The look on his tin face was priceless and she was trying very hard to hold it together. She reminded herself that he just carried her ass up a huge flight of stairs and that seemed to do the trick. “Then I suggest that we find a way out of here.” She turned around and started to follow the yellow brick road, humming the ditty as she walked.

Lex followed her, getting tired of the squeaking and creaking of his hinges very fast. “What's the sense in putting us into this,” he made a wide arm gesture, regretting it immediately when his arm got stuck in the outstretched position. Using his other hand to force the arm back down to his body, he tried to avoid any and all hand gestures whatsoever. He tried again. “What use would it have to send us here, other than annoying the hell out of us?”


Chloe had to bite down hard on her lips to make sure she didn’t laugh at Lex. She could hear him creaking and groaning as he walked. She heard some type of struggle with the tin behind her and theorized that one of his appendages had gotten stuck. When he didn’t ask for help and she heard him continuing on his way, she didn’t bother to turn around. She said, “The whole thing has been annoying so I don’t see why this place would stop with the precedent that its been setting.”

At least there weren’t any scantily clad doubles or anything that seemed to want to psychologically scar them. Yet. She slowed down and waited until Lex pulled even with her. She looked up at him and marveled at the way the sun glinted off some of the angles. ‘Too bad Dorothy didn’t bring sunglasses.’

Lex caught looked down at Chloe, getting transfixed by the patterns that the sun was reflecting onto her dress from his body. It looked nice. When he realized he was blinding her from where he was standing, he hastily took a step back, trying to walk in an angle that didn't reflect the sun from his surfaces right into her eyes. “Why did I end up being this robot anyway?” he didn't think he was that cold, yet this place seemed to insist to show him as some kind of an emotionless, sex-driven, cruel creature.

Deciding to not make a joke out of the situation, Chloe instead answered him honestly. “I think that this place thought that it fit you best. It was either the Tin Man, Cowardly Lion or Scarecrow.” She looked up at him and was thankful for the clouds that were passing overhead. They allowed her to look at his eyes. “I think that we can both agree that you don’t lack courage or brains.” Chloe paused and continued to walk down the road.

The next part of what she wanted to say was tricky and she wanted to phrase it right. “I think that this place points out our faults to the ninth degree and forces us to face them.” She stopped walking and turned to face him. “I think that it’s trying to tell you that you need to, um…” How was she supposed to say this without it sounding totally stupid?

Maybe she wasn’t. “I think that it’s a sign that you should allow your heart to lead you as much as your brain or courage. Lex, you’re not lacking in that department. I know that. Maybe it’s time to show it.”

Lifting his eyebrow produced another small squeak that Lex though most undignified. “I'm supposed to put myself out there? Chloe we both know where it got me every time I remotely took it into consideration. And it's not only me, I mean, look at what happened when you let your guard down.” 'Letting your heart lead you' Lex scoffed inwardly, 'Right, and get a kick in the ribs for your trouble. No, thank you.' “I don't live in a world where I can just be the way I want to be and to hell with the consequences. It'd be like jumping in a shark tank with bleeding wounds.”

Chloe’s jaw clenched when Lex brought her into his own shit. It was a valid point, but it was also a way to deflect things away from himself. “None of us live in that world, Lex. I understand that you hold yourself to a higher standard than the rest of us mortals, but you are human. Even though you don’t want to admit it, you’re just as desperate to be accepted as the rest of us.” Lex opened his mouth to protest but Chloe plowed ahead. “If it weren’t true, you wouldn’t have married Helen.” Lex’s mouth closed and his jaw tightened, a high pitched creak resonating through the air.

She took a step closer to him. “Lex, you do use your heart. You just waste it on people who aren’t worth it. Then, they trample all over it and you close everyone else out. Until the next wrong person comes along.”

Lex unclenched his jaw with another loud creaking and turned his head sideways to look at Chloe. “And how do you propose I stop from opening up to the wrong people other than not opening up at all?” It was true that both times he had opened up to someone, they'd betrayed him and tried to kill him. Then there was Clark who'd played the best friend, still lying to him at every damn turn and refusing to open up to Lex about his damn secrets. Was it his fault that he always chose the wrong people? After Helen, he'd simply resigned himself not to trust anyone ever again.

He thought back to the other world with their older doubles. That line of thinking was probably what would have him end up with Erica, the woman he'd been married to in the alternate universe. The thought wasn't particularly pleasing, but it didn't repulse him either.

“I propose that you know someone for more than three months before you propose.” Did Lex really not see his pattern? “I also suggest that you don’t just open up to the first tall brunette that crosses your path.”

She crossed her arms over her chest. Even if Lex hated her for what she was saying, it was a relief to say it. She had watched Lex make these stupid mistakes more times than she cared to count. All she wanted to do was to shake some sense into him.

“You have such good judgment when it comes to business dealings. You look at the players and hang back until you know the best way to interact with them. Based on their past histories you then decide whether or not to, and excuse the expression, get into bed with them.” Chloe could tell that she was getting to Lex. He hadn’t tried to interrupt her and appeared to actually be listening. “I would suggest that you take that and apply it to other parts of your life.”

What Lex had said about her came to mind. “I’m not saying that you won’t get your heart puréed every now and again,” she shrugged, “but that’s life. It’s fucked up and it hurts but you either decided to live it or just give in and be a robot.”

“It was four months,” he shot back. True he should have been more careful back then, “And I can't be held responsible for Desiree. I'd never have married her if she hadn't put me under the influence of her damn meteor enhanced pheromones. I've got better taste than that.” He thought more about her analogy. “The difference between business and love affairs is that you can't exactly choose who you fall for, Chloe. It's not like I can meet someone, get a complete file on them and then decide to fall in love with them. That would be a business merger, not a relationship.” He had to give her the last point though. “But I admit, you have a point about getting emotionally numb if you don't decide to risk it once in a while. Still, that doesn't mean I want to risk it any time soon.”

Chloe nodded. She doubted that having one conversation with him would change the way he looked at something like love, but at least he was thinking about it now. “I agree that you can’t decide who you fall in love with. And I would never suggest that someone know everything about a person before getting involved, I just think that if you’d allow yourself to use your instincts in that realm, things might work out better for you.”

She knew that Lex had had Helen investigated. He wouldn’t have done that on a whim. Also, if he didn’t think it was necessary, he had trusted her, he also would not have wasted time and money on the exercise. “There are people that you don’t trust, but you want to. You give them every opportunity to explain away things that have no explanation instead of accepting that they’re not worth your time, effort and trust.”

Chloe knew that he’d see that she wasn’t just talking about Helen. They were both stupid when it came to certain people in their lives. She decided to take her own advice when they got back to Smallville.

Lex kept walking silently. Of course he had let things slide that he would have hounded after otherwise. But it wasn't as simple as Chloe was trying to put it. He had enough to worry about and was walking the fence in every other part of his life, so he'd just wanted to be able to have something straight forward and simple. Something that grounded him and made sense in itself without any complicated 'if clauses' attached. At the same time he was berating himself for his naivety to believe that someone like him could actually find unconditional love. And in truth, Helen's love had been anything but. He'd just opted to agree to all the 'if clauses' instead of arguing them as he'd have done in any other part of his life.

All this mulling over of old faults and abstract concepts of something that should be simple gave him a headache. Without thinking, he lifted his arm to run a hand over his head. And promptly got it stuck in that position. Fuck!

He growled low in his throat as he tried to move the arm back into its former position. “God damnit, what the everloving FUCK have I done to anyone to deserve this shit?! At this point I'd accept being fucking bludgeoned by a fucking meteor freak if that means Mr. Truth, Justice and the American Fucking Way would appear to save the damn day and I could be fucking DONE with this!” He was still yanking at the arm while he spoke, but it wasn't budging a single inch.

Chloe watched as Lex basically had a tantrum. She could tell that he was highly frustrated by their conversation and his present physical state and that they were feeding off of one another. She slowly approached him and slid her hand into the pocket of the dress. She hoped that what she was looking for would be there.

“Don’t say things like that, Lex,” she said as her fingers found what they were looking for. She scanned the horizon, looking for a figure zooming towards them. “In this place, you never know when you’ll get what you wish for.” She took the oil can out of her pocket and rose up on her toes to get at Lex’s arm. She could see that he was deciding whether or not to let her help him so she said, “Listen, do you want to be stuck like that the whole time we’re here?”

Clenching his jaw, he bent slightly to let her get to the joints. “As long as you're careful with that. I don't particularly fancy being drenched in motor oil.” He could feel the slippery liquid running in between the seams and after a few moments was able to move his arm back down beside his body. “Thanks,” he gritted through his teeth when they were walking again. “I still don't understand what they expect from me,” he stated irritably. “I won't just turn around and open up to every damn person I meet on the street or change my conviction at the drop of a hat just because there might be a slim chance that I don't get kicked where it hurts for doing it.”

Slipping the oil can back in her pocket, Chloe thought that Lex might be stuck like that for quite awhile if he didn’t open up to the possibility that he might be wrong about the way he ran his romantic life. “Do you really think that that is what this whole thing is about?” She gestured to their surroundings. “I don’t think it’s to totally change who we are as people or the way we conduct ourselves. Just maybe the way we look at certain parts of our lives.”

She was thankful that Oz appeared to be getting closer. If they were forced to walk along the road until Lex admitted that he was wrong she doubted that they would ever reach their destination. “You’re looking at this as an either or situation. I don’t think you’re supposed to become some flower bringing, poetry spewing lovey-dovey type guy.” A little grin came on her face as she imagined Lex as just that. “You just have to admit that closing yourself off isn’t the cure that you pretend that it is.”

Chloe looked at him levelly. “Yes, not trusting people and refusing to let them in is an effective way to make sure you don’t get hurt. But, it’s also an effective way to trust that you will be miserable, too.” She knew that it was simple and naïve, but she was just trying to get Lex to understand how basic the idea was.

Lex's eyebrow came up with a creak. “Do I look miserable to you?” He tried to shove his newly oiled hands into his pockets, only to realize he didn't have any. He opted to fold them behind his back instead. “And I never said I was never going to open up again, just that I wasn't gonna do it any time soon. A man can only stand so many attempts on his life in a certain amount of time,” he explained drily.

Chloe threw her hands up, totally frustrated. “You really don’t get it, do you? If you would only use *this*,” she poked him in the chest, right about where his heart should be, “more wisely, you wouldn’t have to worry about attempts on your life.”

“And as for not doing it any time soon, I thought you said you couldn’t *decide* who to fall in love with. Therefore, you won’t know if it will be soon or not.” She turned back around and did her best to not stomp off.

Lex looked at the dent in his chest plate, then back at Chloe. “I understand that I have to rely on my 'heart' to open up to someone, yet I'm supposed to use my 'head' to back it up, which is a paradox, because both can't lead at the same time. Either you do something with your head, or your heart. When I follow my 'heart',” he sneered the word, “My head obviously doesn't go along for the ride.” He kept wringing his fingers behind his back, causing the joints to creak wildly in rhythm. “Yet, when I follow my head, my 'heart' doesn't even get a chance to say it's piece because I have yet to find One person that isn't in it for their own agenda or ulterior motives, or whatever you wanna call it.” He shook his head, trying to get his point through to Chloe.

“What you don't get is that I can be a good judge of character, but only from a distance, when I get close to people I try to find them worthy, but they turn out to be liars, traitors and nutcases. Every. Single. Time.”

Deciding to go with Lex’s set up, Chloe asked, “Which one am I, Lex?” She advanced on him. She knew that this was dangerous territory after the Helen fiasco, but she honestly wanted to know which category she was grouped into according to him. “Do I lie to your face every time that we have a conversation? Am I just your friend because I’m waiting for the perfect time to stab you in the back? Or, am I just crazy to actually believe in you?” She placed her hands on her hips.

Lex clenched his jaw again, getting used to the squeaking and groaning that now accompanied that act. At this point evading answers or getting into meaningless banter seemed stupid, so she'd have to deal with the truth. “Sadly, I never find that out until the end, so I can't tell you what it is now. At the beginning, you were business. Which means I knew more about you than probably even your father did. After that, we didn't talk for a while and after that you were an acquaintance. Now I don't know where we stand.” He shrugged, the hinges in his shoulders creaking a little with the motion. “You haven't betrayed me yet and as things are at the moment, I don't think you will, but who's to say you won't turn around somewhere down the line and turn against me? Justifying it in some way or another?”

She tried not to be hurt by what he said. Chloe knew that his answer would be something like that and had prepared herself for it. Lex was just being realistic. But, she didn’t know how he could honestly think that after seeing her admit that she was in love with him. Then again, the people that were supposed to love Lex seemed to be the ones that turned around and betrayed him. She nodded at him and then turned back to Oz.

As she walked, she kept her voice level. “I would tell you that I have no intention of turning against you now or ever. But, I know that I’d just be wasting my breath.” Taking a deep breath, she went on. “I guess I foolishly thought that knowing how I feel about you would change things.” She shook her head.

Chloe knew that bringing up her feelings wasn’t a smart move. But, she had gone and done it anyway.

Lex shook his head. “Try to put yourself in my position. Desiree, Helen, even Victoria swore up and down they loved me and they are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Helen even had the guts to use that line while she held me at gunpoint.” He could see that his words were hitting Chloe at a sore spot.

Lex didn't mean to hurt her with them, he just tried to get her to understand where he was coming from. Why he was going through that trouble, he couldn't say. Usually he would have ended the discussion basically at the point where it turned to him. “It's not that I don't want to trust you. It's just that I don't know how I can when I've been proven wrong about my instincts so many times.”

“Point taken,” Chloe said, brusquely. If Lex actually lumped her in with the rest of the women in his life, Chloe knew that she didn’t stand a chance. Making the distinction that she wasn’t anything like the previously mentioned vipers was something that she couldn’t force on him. And, she didn’t want to. She would rather Lex realize that on his own.

But, she really didn’t see the point in this place making her admit her feelings to Lex if it didn’t do any good at all. It was just cruel and out of order that he would have this information and she would get nothing in return.

Things would be so much easier if they really were in The Wizard of Oz. She knew how to get them home in that world. As she walked along the road, Chloe stared at the ruby slippers that she was wearing. Stopping, she focused on the shoes. Why shouldn’t it work?

She remembered what her double had told her on the phone about the only way that they’d ever get out of this place. But, maybe that was because she hadn’t tried this route. Why should Chloe subject herself to this any longer when she could maybe get them out of here now? ‘Because then you may miss the only opportunity that you and Lex have?’

That may be true but they had already been here for so long and it didn’t look as if Lex was any closer to admitting whatever his feelings were towards Chloe. She took another glance down at her slippers. It was a tempting proposition. She knew that Lex would want her to try it.

A. Don't Click Chloe's heels together.
B. Click Chloe's heels together

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: So here you go, new chapter for you! More talking, and Munchkins! and stuff... *g*
A/N: Blue: More from the Land of Oz...but not exactly what you'd expect...which is *exactly* what you should expect from us.

Just as she was about to try clicking her heels together, another thought struck her. It was the easy way out and she was being a chicken. She would be damned if Lex[\i], of all things, would turn her into that. She had faced much worse in the past: mutant spiders, meteor freaks dressed as clowns, Clark’s truck barreling down on her with him behind the wheel. No, she had made it through all of those things so she wasn’t going to run from this situation.

With renewed determination, she strode towards Oz. She could hear Lex following her and allowed a grin to overtake her face as she heard him cursing at the unwieldy material he was now made up of.

Lex was not happy. In fact he was as far from happy as he could get and if they had to stay in this damn place for too much longer he'd definitely do something everybody would regret. Since Chloe had taken to stomping in front of him, he thought it was safe to assume their discussion was over. Good. She just didn't seem to understand that trust wasn't something he gave lightly anymore and just because she thought she could be trusted that didn't mean 'he' had to be careless about the possibility that she'd turn out to betray him if she thought he'd given her ample reason to do it. People worked like that. They use excuses to hurt other people and feel good about making someone else miserable.

Lex wondered how people like Chloe, or Clark and his parents for that matter, could still go through the world putting their trust in people, just because. Really it was stupid to do so, wasn't it? Just assume the best of a person until they turn out to be liars, traitors or homicidal psychos? No thank you. He'd rather keep assuming the worst and not be disappointed when it turned out to be true. And there would be no more falling in love. Nope. That ship had left the harbor never to return.

'Yeah, right. That's why you're keeping such a [I]great nonchalant facade in front of Chloe and don't go telling her things that will inevitably give her material against you.'

Ok, so maybe he had slipped there once or twice, yeah alright maybe a little more often, but it was nothing that couldn't be salvaged, right? Right. Or?

Shaking his head with a light squeaking sound he clamped down on that train of thought and turned his focus back to the problem at hand. So they were in Oz and looking for what? The wisest wizard there was? The wicked witch? No, that one should be dead already, because Chloe was wearing those hideous red slippers. So what?

At least the city seemed to be coming closer. That was a start. They'd have to see what clues they'd get once they arrived there. Lex realized that the silence between Chloe and him had gone on for a while now and that she was still walking a good ways ahead of him. He knew that she didn't deal well with 'uncomfortable silences' but what was he supposed to say? There was no good way to pick up the conversation from where they'd left and not much to talk about other than that. Of course there was also that nagging feeling that he owed her an apology, but for the life of him, Lex couldn't figure out for what.

He'd done nothing wrong, only stated his opinion in a discussion. Ok well maybe he'd been a bit harsh, but Chloe hadn't pulled any punches either so why should he go saying 'sorry'? No. He'd just have to think of something else.

“Do you think this world is really about my issues?” Ok that was not it. He really hadn't meant to say that, but now it was out so he might as well go with it.

Lex speaking to her had been a surprise. Chloe had assumed that they would both continue to ignore each other until it was absolutely necessary for them to speak. It was working for her so it never crossed her mind that Lex would break the silence. Especially with a question like that.

It would be easy to just answer in the affirmative and to tell Lex that this was all about him and his issues. But, Chloe didn’t really believe that. Every world that they had been in dealt with both[\i] of their issues. Lex’s issues were just more easily brought up in this place because of who the powers that be had chosen him to be in this place. There was a very clear line of thinking from his physical appearance to what was going on behind it.

Chloe slowed her pace but kept on walking towards the land of Oz. “I think that you are the Tin Man because of your issues, yes. I think it’s a not so subtle way to clue you in to the way that you lead your life. However, because you are the way you are, you can’t believe that. Or, you don’t want to. Either way,” she shook her head, “it doesn’t matter. You’re not into discussing it so it doesn’t get you anywhere.”
As she walked, she looked down at the yellow brick road. It struck her that, technically, they shouldn’t be on the road yet. Dorothy got on it *after* the singing munchkins and the shoe thievery. But, she could hear the Lollipop Guild as they approached the town. Shrugging off the inconsistency, she addressed Lex again.

“But, I’m fairly sure that this land won’t lay off me, either. Sometime before we’re able to leave here, I’ll get clobbered, too.” She paused, thinking about what she had just said. She had told Lex without really wondering what this place would throw at her. Now, she was concerned about that. But, she’d deal with it when this place got to fucking with her.

“The other me told us how to get out of here.” She glanced back at Lex and fixed him with a look. “Whether you or I choose to believe it or not, we haven’t tried that way out. But, after our previous conversation, I don’t see that happening soon.” Chloe turned back to Oz. “Or ever, really.” She said the last part to herself.

Chloe could feel a good, old mope coming on but she shook it off. Self-pity and defeatist thinking wouldn’t get them anywhere. She refused to fall into a ‘poor me’ mindset, she had to keep her wits about herself. They were now entering the town and she was certain that, as was everything in this place, things wouldn’t be exactly what they seemed.

Lex thought back on what the other Chloe had said. “Why? I mean, what do you think we've been doing for the last god knows how many hours since we got here?” He shook his head and caught up with her, falling into step and trying to ignore the squeaking and groaning of his joints and hinges. “She said that we have to admit our feelings to each other. And that's what we're doing. Just because [I]my feelings aren't all fluffy bunnies and pretty roses, doesn't mean they're not my feelings.”

Chloe stopped and stared straight ahead. She could feel Lex’s eyes on her, studying her reaction to his words. He was right. He had shared his feelings with her and she would wager that she knew more about him than anyone else on the planet. Then, why weren’t they out of here?

That was the real question. If they had both admitted their feelings to each other, it should be done, they should be home. Chloe knew that she had fully disclosed her feelings to Lex, the only other explanation was…..

She looked up at Lex and said, “You’re not being honest.” It wasn’t an accusation, more like a revelation. “I don’t know if it’s on purpose or not, but that’s not the point.” She knew that Lex would not like what she was saying. He would probably think that it was a tactic on her part to get him to say what she wanted him to.

That wasn’t the case, though. If they had done what was required of them they would be back home, free to ignore what they knew about one another. Instead, they were stuck in this place. Chloe couldn’t be any more honest with Lex. Therefore, it had to do with him. At least for now.

Lex stopped dead in his tracks, shooting her an incredulous look. “What?” She had seen, heard and gotten to know sides of him that nobody ever had and she had the gall to accuse him of lying to her? Where the fuck did she get off? “I don't believe...” Taking a deep breath, he resumed walking, his strides longer and faster than before. “What the hell would I be lying to you about? I've told you more than anyone else in my whole fucking life! Just because I choose to keep at least some of myself private?” His voice dropped a notch in level and tone. “And who's to say it's not you being dishonest?” he hypothesized. “Oh let me guess, because I'm the Luthor in this world so therefore of course it would be me being dishonest. Right, how could I forget,” he drawled.

‘Two steps forward and eight back,’ Chloe thought as she practically ran after him. She grasped his arm but he shook her off squeaking as he did so. She rushed past him and faced him, forcing him to stop. “No, it has nothing to do with your last name you jackass.” She gave him a push and he took a step back. Chloe wanted to stop his forward motion. He could think what he wanted of her, but she wasn’t going to let him misinterpret what she said as fodder for his delusions.

Lex glared at her and she saw his tin nostrils flare. She knew that he was royally pissed but she didn’t care anymore. “The reason that it has to be you is because I went through denial months ago. Do you think that I want to…” she stopped short and took a breath. She had said it once and Lex had been watching but it was different admitting it to his face. ‘Ok, so maybe that’s one thing that you have to do before you can get out of here.’

She felt her palms getting sweaty and her heart started to hammer in her chest. She felt more than a little sick to her stomach, too. But, she’d just say it and get it over with. Starting over, she said, “Do you think that I wanted to fall in love with you?” There. Done. A Lex jaw clench was the only indication that he had heard and processed her words. ‘Well, what did you expect?’ Chloe soldiered forward, she knew that she’d have to explain what she meant before Lex got even more angry.

Lex forced himself to unclench his jaw, it was a much more obvious habit when your jaw actually creaked every time you did it. He didn't know what to say, put on the spot as he was. In all honesty, for the most part, he'd been ignoring Chloe's feelings towards him, because dealing with them would mean he had to deal more in depth with his own and they had more important things to deal with at the moment than feelings that might not even really exist. 'If they didn't exist you wouldn't have to think about it.' True but still, not right now, please. Before he could get a word in to stop this conversation from going any further, Chloe barreled on.

“I could see it and feel it happening so I was determined to stay away from you. Out of sight, out of mind.” She paused, seeing if Lex had anything to say. But, he just stared at her and Chloe could hear birds twittering in the nearby trees.

“It didn’t work.” Chloe spat out the words. She had been very disappointed in herself when she realized that staying away from him had done nothing to put the kibosh on her feelings. “Nothing did. So, I just accepted it. I accepted that I had chosen someone even worse than Clark to fall for.”

Lex stopped actually reeled back from that. “Now, wait a minute? In no way am I worse than Clark! I never strung you along, I never gave you any reason to believe there was something there wasn't and I was sure as hell not pining for the girl next door while playing the best friend card on you. And that's just off the top of my head. How could I any way be worse than Clark?” If she wanted to start insulting him, she could have it. 'You know damn well what she meant. Well doesn't matter, I'm clarifying for the sake of the discussion! Yeah, right.' He forced himself to not cross his arms over his chest, it wouldn't do to get stuck like that, plus it was a very immature pose of defense. Instead he kept himself as relaxed as he could for a rusty tin man.

Chloe was surprised that after his little speech Lex didn’t search for some pockets to shove his hands into. Trying to maintain herself, she said, “That’s not what I meant and you know it. Of course you didn’t do any of those things that Clark did, you didn’t have the chance to. I meant that you were the ultimate unattainable man. You’re older, in a different social strata, my friend’s friend, my father’s boss, the son of the man who wanted me dead, all of these things are big neon signs telling me not to fall for you. But, we both know how well I listen to reason. I couldn’t look at obvious signs telling me that this,” she motioned between the two of them, “wouldn’t work. Instead, I had to focus on how damn smart you were and every other thing that made me want to touch you every time we were in a room together.”

Lex tried to purse his lips but found it impossible thanks to the wide, unyielding steel jaw. He'd expected no less. From Chloe's answer that was. Still, what did she expect from him now? There was nothing majorly important he kept from her and the fact that there might be some weird feelings that he didn't want to examine closer, what did it matter in the grander scheme if this whole experience was about actual feelings, not possible ones. So what was left to say?

“Listen, I'm sure it can't be easy for you, but there's nothing I can do about it. I won't apologize for this though, because it wasn't and isn't my fault that you're in love with me. But I don't know what you want me to do about that.” He shook his head and slowly started walking again. “You know everything important there is to know, and I am not hiding any of my known feelings here, believe me that. All I said was true. Maybe the future you got something wrong?”

Chloe watched Lex’s retreating back that glimmered in the sunlight. It would be so easy to pick up the rocks at the base of one of the trees and pelt him with them. She was sure that they would make a very satisfying sound and Lex wouldn’t see it coming. Instead, she fisted her hands and started walking after him. Now she was certain that Lex was the one holding back. She had been as honest with him as she could, more honest than she had been with herself when the feelings had started to rear their ugly head.

“Not his fault[\i],” she muttered to herself. As if her feelings were something that needed to be blamed on someone. But, she hadn’t expected anything more from Lex. It was clear that he wasn’t aware of his feelings or couldn’t admit them yet.

When she pulled even with him, he glanced at her and Chloe remembered that Lex had asked her a question. True, it was more of a rhetorical one but at least it would get them out of this conversation. “Yeah, I’m sure that’s it.” She couldn’t help the sarcasm that crept into her voice.

Lex looked at her askance for her snide tone. “I'm serious, Chloe. I mean maybe it wasn't about feelings after all but we couldn't figure it out and just stumbled onto the real reason without being clued in and kept thinking it was about emotions. It's just a theory, there's no reason you have to get that snide about it.” He kept walking. If he'd get the peace of mind to do it, maybe he'd deal with those potential feelings anyway, on the chance that the future Chloe had been right, but how could the powers that ruled this place think he'd be able to get anything straightened out when they kept throwing him into one chaos after the next? “And let's not get into an argument now because I said your tone was snide, because we both know it was and I can understand that you're irritated with the situation and that you think I'm hiding something, but please, let's just try to get through this and get me out of this tin suit.”

Pinching the bridge of his nose amid groans and squeaks he added. “You have no idea how uncomfortable this is.”

Chloe kept her tongue in check. Instead she thought the ‘poor you’ which she wanted to say aloud. Lex’s discomfort would most likely not last long. But, she couldn’t say that. That would be snide. Chloe shook her head. ‘Now you sound like a child.’ She decided that keeping her mouth shut was the best course of action.

Looking over at her from the corner of his eyes, Lex could see her opening and closing her mouth several times before she decided to snap it shut and kept it that way. 'Good, that'll give me at least some time to work things through.' His gaze traveled ahead, falling onto the end of the yellow brick road that led straight to a high wall. 'Or not.' They'd obviously arrived at the city.

The city was pretty much as Chloe remembered it. What with the garish colors and the singing and dancing that was going on. She just hoped that neither she nor Lex would be forced to break into song. She didn’t think that it would be pretty.

Looking around the square, Chloe noticed that a major part of the scene was missing. There was no house that had killed the Wicked Witch. ‘So, what are they celebrating?’

Before she could stop one of the Munchkins to ask them that question, Chloe heard a familiar voice that made her whole body turn cold call out from her left. “I was wondering when you two would arrive. And, look, no present either. I should have known better than to expect punctuality or anything else from you, though.”

Lex turned towards the female voice, watching Chloe go pale as a sheet beside him and her mouth slightly open and eyes wide as saucers. “We apologize, but we didn't know if we'd be able to make it, you should have gotten our present already, the delivery must have been held up for some reason.” The lie slipped smoothly from his mouth before he even thought about it as he faced the strange woman. One of his hands automatically reached out to press into the small of Chloe's back, trying to lend her some form of silent support. “Who is she?” He whispered in her ear when he was directly beside her.

Chloe felt like she was having an out of body experience. She could vaguely hear Lex’s words and feel his hand on her body, but it was like it was happening to someone else. It had to be some other girl that was faced with a green version of her mother. She hadn’t seen the woman in years but there was no doubt that under the black dress and pointy hat was the woman who had left both her and her father when she was young. “It’s my mother.” The words came out of her mouth without a hint of emotion and Chloe tried to focus enough to get them the hell out of here.

She had already dealt with her feelings towards Lex. Making her face this was downright mean and she wasn’t about to deal with this woman any longer than she had to.

“Oh.” It wasn't very eloquent but faced with a green woman who'd insulted them before she even said hello and Chloe's reaction to the whole situation, eloquent really didn't matter at this point.

Of course he knew about Chloe's family situation. He'd had a full file on every single one of his employees at the plant and of course he'd paid special attention to the people who would be working in close relation with him. So he knew the basics of what had happened with Chloe's mother, but he hadn't paid any attention to it after it was clear that Gabe had gotten a divorce and that the woman wouldn't return. “Are you going to be ok?”

“I’ll be fine,” Chloe said mechanically. There was no need for Lex to see her fall apart because of her mother. She’d already made enough of a fool of herself. She took a steadying breath and then a step towards her mother. This was about them now.

“I apologize for our tardiness and I hope that your,” Chloe had seen one of the banners that was strewn over the square, “birthday has been pleasant so far.” She wasn’t sure if the witch’s temper would be as short as she remembered her mother’s so she chose her words carefully.

The witch looked disdainfully at Chloe. “For your information, it has not been pleasant at all. I thought you were supposed to plan this. When I got here, nothing had been done. This is entirely your fault.” She swept her hand around the square and Chloe saw that the Munchkins were scurrying around and hanging up balloons all the while trying to sing cheerfully.

“If you had only done what you said you would,” the witch walked up to Chloe and it seemed as if she were at least eight feet tall, “I wouldn’t have to leave.”

Even though she could see right through what this world was doing to her, Chloe couldn’t help the next few words out of her mouth. “I’m sorry, I’m here now.” She started in the direction of the Munchkins. “I can take care of it.”

Lex reached out and held her wrist without even thinking about it. “What the hell do you think you're doing?” His tone was sharp and the sentence directed at both women at the same time. The witch for her audacity and Chloe for jumping to accommodate the order without a second thought. He kept his gaze mainly on the witch but kept glancing at Chloe out of the corner of his eyes.

He couldn't believe that she'd submit herself to something like that for a woman that she owed nothing to. Then again, it was nothing he hadn't done where his father was concerned. But Lex had faced that problem years ago, literally. It seemed now was Chloe's time and if he could help her do it, he would. After all it was only with Chloe's help that he'd lastly been able to beat his father without becoming like him. He finally shifted his gaze completely on Chloe. “You don't owe this woman anything.”

Chloe was about to answer Lex when she heard her mother laugh harshly. “No,” she said in a patronizing tone of voice, “you don’t owe me anything. I only gave you life.” Her mother shrugged. “So, you and your little shiny friend don’t need to stay.”

Looking back at Lex, Chloe tried to clear her mind of the emotions that had overtaken logical thought. It helped and she was able to remember that this wasn’t really her mother and jumping just because she said so wasn’t the way to get through this world.

The witch watched the exchange and burst out laughing. Chloe glared at her and said, “What’s so funny?” The woman’s laughter wasn’t joyous or cheerful, it sounded malevolent and ugly to Chloe’s ears.

“You. You simple girl.” The witch stepped between Chloe and Lex and she couldn’t see Lex anymore. “You’re making the same mistake again. [i]He[\i] doesn’t love you. He told you so. But, you continue to foolishly trust in him. You did it with Clark.” She lowered her voice. “And let’s not forget how long you clung to the thought that I would actually come back.”

Lex narrowed his eyes and glared at the witches back. He'd seen Chloe flinch as the woman had stepped between them and he knew she wouldn't be taking her words easily either. It was time he did something. At least take the attention off Chloe for a moment.

Raising one hand he brought it down on the witches shoulder maybe a bit too heavily and turned her around. “Excuse me, but I said no such thing. Further, I suggest you stop threatening my friend or I [I]will forget my good upbringing and make sure you get the end that the character you're stuck in is supposed to get.”

The witch turned around and peered at the Tin Man that dared to first lay a hand on her and then threaten her. She smiled at him and pulled a wand out of one of her numerous pockets. “You said something about me meeting my end.” She pointed the wand at Lex and began to mutter words.

The witch’s incantation broke Chloe’s paralysis and she lunged at the woman. Or, more accurately, the wand. As a stream of what looked like electricity spilled out of the end of it, Chloe wretched the witch’s wrist upwards. The woman screamed in pain and then threw Chloe off of her body. When she was on the floor, Chloe looked in Lex’s direction and was glad to see that he was still in one piece.

Lex jolted into action when he saw Chloe hitting the floor. He threw himself at the witch and managed to tackle her to the ground, arms flailing wildly. It took him a lot of effort, but finally he managed to get her arms behind her and the wand out of her hand. He looked around wildly for a moment before he found Chloe, getting to her feet a few steps away. “Here!” He threw the wand at her.

Instinctively, Chloe caught the wand. However, she didn’t know what Lex expected her to do with it. It wasn’t like she knew any helpful spells or anything and she doubted that yelling ‘stop being a raging, homicidal bitch’ while pointing the wand at her mother would do any good.

Instead, she snapped it in half and heard the witch scream in pain. Well, that was a start, at least. But, she didn’t think she was supposed to kill her mother/the witch. That would be far too simple for this damn place. No, it would want her to sort out her feelings about the woman. As if that was even remotely possible.

Lex watched as indecision flitted over Chloe's face while she watched the witch writhing in pain on the floor. He tried to keep a steady grip on the squirming woman under him while his attention was mostly on Chloe.

She seemed to be totally oblivious to everything going on as her mind worked. Her bottom lip was caught between her teeth and Lex watched as she mauled it ruthlessly, her fingers clenching and releasing, the wand lying broken and useless at her feet. “Chloe?”

“Let her go.” She didn’t look at Lex, instead she was focused on her mother. She continued to fight against Lex and glared at Chloe. The woman was clearly livid, but Chloe wasn’t scared. A sort of calm had come over her. Chloe knew what she needed to do. She could sense that Lex wasn’t sure if he should listen to her or not. “It’s my fight, Lex. Let her go.”

Still doubtful, Lex slowly leaned down over the woman until his mouth was only a hairsbreadth from her ear. “Hurt her and I will kill you,” he growled in a voice low enough for only the witch to hear. Then, he shifted his weight off the woman, but didn't let go of her arms until he was standing on his own to feet and could back off quickly if she decided to throw a tantrum.

He stepped back slowly as the witch got to her feet, keeping a close scrutiny on her.

Chloe didn’t need to hear what Lex told her mother. She could guess as to what threats he had thrown her way before allowing her to stand up. The witch glared at her but before she could speak Chloe took a few steps towards her until they were almost nose to nose.

“You are not my mother.” The witch opened her mouth but Chloe quickly snapped. “Shut. Up.” When she saw the witch close her mouth, she went on. But, if you were, there are a few things that I would say to her….you…whatever.”

She looked the woman in the eyes. “It is not my fault that you left. It had nothing to do with me and all to do with the fact that you didn’t want to marry Dad in the first place. You didn’t want to be in your parent’s house anymore and he was the easy way out. I didn’t ruin your life you did that all on your own.” That was the easy part. Those were the cold, hard facts. Her father had tried to phrase them in the best way possible, but she had ferreted the truth out of him in the past few years. Now came the hard part.

Like it or not, whenever someone that she cared about burned her, she always thought about her mother. She knew that it was illogical and stupid, but that didn’t stop her from doing it. It was one of her most deep seeded insecurities that if the one person was supposed to love her could just up and leave, what would keep anyone else from doing the same thing? Accepting her feelings about Lex had been the second hardest thing she had done. Dealing with her feelings towards her mother had been the first.

“I don’t like you.” Her voice started to crack but she had expected that. “I hope that I’m nothing like you and that I get everything I am from Dad. But,” and here came the damn tears. Her vision blurred and she angrily swiped at her eyes. “I still love you. I may never be strong enough to forgive you but that doesn’t change how I feel about you.”

Obviously, Chloe had a lot to work out of her system, so Lex had decided to keep silent and let her have the stage. He watched the myriad of expressions that crossed her face while she talked. Her anger, frustration and old hurt were clearly visible.

Watching her going through her cathartic speech, he had to admire her once more for the strength she showed. She was obviously fighting hard not to break into tears, but kept it together as much as she could. For some strange reason, it also brought out other feelings than admiration and sympathy. If he had to place it he'd have to say he felt...proud.

Chloe looked up at the sky and yelled, “You hear that! What’ve you got left!”

“Nothing for now, Chloe.” Her head whipped back and she saw that her mother now looked normal. She was older than she remembered, of course, but she wasn’t green or wearing black. Chloe looked down at her clothes and they were the ones that she had worn into the funhouse. Looking over at Lex, she saw that he was flesh and blood again.

Her mother nodded at her and then turned around. Chloe’s brows furrowed in confusion when she started walking towards Lex.

Lex looked down at himself then back at Chloe, then over at the woman who'd formerly been the wicked witch and now looked like an ordinary woman in her early forties. Didn't matter what she looked like, though. If he could get answers out of that person maybe they'd finally get a better idea just what exactly they were supposed to do to get out of here, or maybe he could even talk this person...being...whatever into letting them out. “Who are you?”

The woman looked at him almost sympathetically. “You know by now that I’m not a real person. That this,” she gestured to the land of Oz, “isn’t real either.” She waved her hand again and the scenery disappeared. Now, they were all in a plain white room.

Lex looked around himself at the empty white room. “Then what exactly is this?” while his mind popped up with 'Matrix much?' Ignoring his inner valley girl, he kept right on going. “And why did you get us in here in the first place? More importantly, why won't you let us out?”

The woman put her hands on her hips and said, “You’re smarter than these questions. You two,” she looked at Chloe as she moved to stand next to Lex, “are still in the funhouse.” She snapped her fingers and a TV appeared with a picture of Lex and Chloe in the funhouse. They were sitting with their legs crossed facing one another, they looked like they were in a trance. She snapped her fingers again and the TV disappeared.

“I’m not the one who got you here, either. I just work for, um, him, her, it.” She paused, trying to sort it out herself. “It’s irrelevant, anyway. I’m also not keeping you two here.” She fixed them both with a stern look. “If you would stop getting in your own way, you’d be out of here in no time.”

Lex got a little irritated at the woman's evasive answer and watching a replica of himself sitting on the dirty floor of the first funhouse room they'd stepped into was not reassuring either, to put it mildly. “What do you mean get in our own way?” He was slowly but surely losing his patience once more.

Chloe watched the other woman glare at Lex a little and wondered if that was what she looked like when she was irate with someone. “You already have that answer. You know the way out of here and if you refuse to take it, you only have yourself to blame.”

Letting out a sigh, Chloe crossed her arms. This was not what her fake mother should be doing. She had already been through this with Lex and Chloe doubted that the other woman would make any headway with him.

“No thank you, I know where to put the blame for getting kidnapped and trapped in an alternate dimension against my will and I don't believe for one second that you couldn't get us out of here with a snap of your fingers. So why don't you do it? Where the hell do you get off meddling in our affairs to begin with!” He got right up in the woman's face, intruding on her personal space. He'd had enough of this endless mindfucking games. “If I wanted therapy, I would go out and get one and I'm sure the same goes for Chloe.” He lowered his voice, narrowing his eyes. “So why don't you just drop whatever magicks you're pulling here and get us the hell out, right now!”
“Lex, don’t.” Chloe laid a hand on his arm. She wasn’t sure that the woman wouldn’t fight back with Lex if he pissed her off and she was certain that the woman could do much more damage to Lex than vice versa. She understood Lex’s frustration, but didn’t really see why he was losing it so much *now*. They had been here for only god knew how long and he had managed to keep it together.

“I already explained to you that I don’t have the power to get you out of here,” the woman said levelly. But, Chloe could hear the tension in her voice. She didn’t like being yelled at. “I get off, as you put it, meddling in your affairs because you two obviously can’t handle your own affairs properly.” She paused. “It’s why you’re here.”

Lex couldn't believe the audacity of this woman. How dare she talk down to them like that? Did they look like children, like they couldn't make their own damn choices or where incapable of making things right on their own. “And this little fantasy is of course doing oh so much for us out there in the real world, right? Because it's not like this was all just a fucking illusion with the sole purpose to confront us with all the things that we chose to leave behind for a damn good reason,” he sneered.

He could barely feel Chloe's hand on his arm, too wrapped up in his own fury over the futility of the situation and glad he was finally able to confront at least one of the people responsible for it.

Lex was about three seconds from going nuclear. She didn’t think that woman had anything to worry about, she could just go poof. But, if Lex pushed her, she was sure that this world would push back and Chloe didn’t want to see that happen. Then there was the little tidbit of Lex’s choice of words. What, exactly, was he choosing to leave behind? But, she couldn’t focus on that right now.

She gripped his arm tighter and said his name again. But, she could see that he was ignoring her. His eyes were still focused on the woman. Chloe was torn, she didn’t know whether to forcibly drag Lex away from the woman or let him try to get more information from her.

A) Chloe drags Lex away
B) They keep talking to the woman

[S.Ann Smith]

BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB!


uh.. I think that was my answer.. .haha

[Blackberry]

B as well! keep talkin!! woot! :D

[asharnanae]

:ohmy: NNNOOOOOO!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAA A!

Did ya get that, chloe will drag lex away, or not. whatever may come, please make it SOON!! :yay: :worship2:

[Czech Angel]

I pick A.

[ghostwriter]

i think A, lex is just going to make an idiot of himself otherwise... and as funny as that would be....

CAn't wait for the next chappie :biggrin:

[hfce]

I pick A


Hope :)

[lexchloe]

A. :biggrin:

[sydsvaughn]

I'm gonna have to go with..

A!!

SaraC

[autumngold]

I picked B before, so I guess I'll stick with it!!

[buffiy18]

Excellent chapter ladies. And THANK YOU for putting the old chapters back up so soon :biggrin:

Choices Choices... I really don't know. If he keeps talking to the woman, then Lex may finally come to a point where he admits his true feelings for Chloe or that he even has feelign at all. But I don't want anything bad to happen to Lex. If Chloe drags him away, then Lex is safe from being disformed by the lady, but would possibly transfer his rage onto Chloe and they would get into a fight about her pulling him away. Not really in the mood for a fight between the two of them. So... which to pick, which to pick....

I'll go with A... hopefully he and Chloe can get into some useful dialog that will lead him to admitting atleast to himself that he has feelings for her. I can hope right?! :chlexsign2:

[chril1]

i'm conflicted, ABABABABABABABABABABABA

ok A, i think.

i'm sticking with it but i may come back and change my answer,

so confused.

loved it

love lea
xxx

[sylvia]

I picked A before, I think. But now I think B might be a better answer, I'm hoping the woman'll get pissed and force Lex to finally get his damn feelings straight and admit them to Chloe.

Update soon!

[marrycherry]

BBBBBBBBBBBBB

[BlueSabby]

‘Whatever you do it will probably be wrong,’ Chloe thought. It was like she was never presented with a choice that was any good. That whatever powers that governed the laws of this world only enjoyed fucking with them. ‘Like having to choose between being burned alive or freezing to death.’

It was the look on Lex’s face that made the decision for Chloe. He was getting to that level where Chloe really wouldn’t be surprised if he started to threaten the woman’s life. Lex certainly didn’t like being messed about with…and then told that it was his fault.

“Lex.” She hissed his name and then increased her grip on his arm but he continued to ignore her. She yanked harder on his arm, hoping that he’d turn around to, at the very least, tell her to let up or question what she thought she was doing.

He tried to ignore the increasing pressure on his arm in favor of glaring at the bitch that was still looking down her nose at him. Lex had just about had it with the arrogant, all-knowing, oh so aloof, holier than thou attitude. He was just opening his mouth to release another biting remark when something else bit him first.

Chloe's nails were digging sharply into his arm now and yanking down. The burning sting of that was too much to ignore. He jerked his head back towards Chloe, shooting daggers at her. “What? Chloe, I'm not making nice just because this 'lady' “ he sneered the last word, “Is supposedly all so powerful and threatening.”

Ignoring his tone of voice and the glare that he was throwing her way, Chloe kept her voice low. The woman could most likely hear her being that she was magical and stuff like that, but it was out of habit. “I think we should get out of here.” Sticking with the basics seemed to be the best strategy. Telling Lex that the woman could probably turn him into a lemur if she wanted to most likely wouldn’t get her anywhere. He’d be stubborn and then she’d be stuck with a flying monkey…of course, that would fit in with this world.

Lex blinked. She wanted to give up just like that? “Why? This may very well be our only chance to get some answers. Why should we walk away from that just because this thing has a major god complex?” He couldn't understand what in the world had Chloe so frightened. If the powers that be in this place really where doing 'all for their own good' they wouldn't be able to justify hurting them. Therefore, they were relatively safe, so what was Chloe's problem?

Not for the first time, Chloe wanted to wrap her hands around Lex’s throat. He was getting alls sorts of crazy and irate with the woman. Yes, they were at the woman’s mercy but that wasn’t the point. The fact was that she wanted to leave before that vein in Lex’s head burst. “You’re not going to get the answer you want, Lex. She’s already told you why we’re not out of here yet and she’s not going to change her mind.”

The pounding in his temples wasn't getting any better and Chloe obviously was not inclined to budge on this matter. Well fine, that didn't mean he'd have to discuss it. He'd just take her opinion into consideration and then do what he wanted to do anyway. At least this time. “Fine, then I'll ask her a different question.”

With that he turned back around intending to get at least something useful out of the woman. As his eyes fixed on the spot where the woman was supposed to be, he only found an empty patch of cobble stone and tiny people milling about the grounds as if nothing had ever happened.

His head was going to split any second now and release his brain in a flood of goo all over the place. He didn't even have a comment for this, so he simply lifted one arm slowly and pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to control himself and calm down.

When Chloe saw that they were now back in Oz and Lex’s reaction to it, she took a step away from him. She could tell that he was close to the edge and had no intention of being the one that he took it out on.

Deciding that perhaps space would be a good idea, she looked over her shoulder and saw that there was a small bench below a crooked tree. She walked over to it and sat down, leaning her back against the trunk. Lex would come over when he was ready and Chloe was quite content to just sit there quietly.

After a while, he was able to get himself back under control and the headache was receding a little. Releasing a cleansing breath, Lex dropped his hand and looked up at the sky, cracking his neck with two ominously loud cracks from the joints there. Some things never changed, apparently.

Looking around, he found Chloe sitting on a bench nearby, eyes closed and head titled back, her legs crossed indian style. He walked over and settled down next to her, waiting for her to acknowledge his presence. They were back to square one and it didn't sit well with him, but it wasn't Chloe's fault.

Maybe she'd come up with something while he had been trying hard not to go mental. This place was really trying his patience and control from every angle and he was getting tired of it.

She felt Lex’s presence next to her but Chloe continued to keep her eyes closed. Right now, she felt pretty peaceful. Well, considering where they were, what they had been through and what she had been forced to admit that was. She could still hear the sounds of the birthday party in the distance.

Finally opening her eyes, she looked at Lex briefly and then took in their surroundings again. “I don’t think we should go back the way we came.” She tilted her chin in the direction of the celebration and then turned around to look at what was beyond the tree.

It looked like miles and miles of green grass. ‘Too bad there are no poppy plants.’ Being mentally out of it looked very appealing right about now. Something caught her eyes and she squinted. When she saw the shape of what was standing by itself out in the field, she sighed.

“I see another damn door.”

Lex slowly turned his head and looked in the same direction as Chloe. Sure enough, there was a simple wooden door in the middle of the damn field. “I think that's our exit.” If he was honest, at the moment he couldn't care less.

So he got up from the bench and held his hand out for Chloe to help her up. “Let's hope we get to go somewhere normal for a change.”

Chloe took his hand and then quickly released it. The vibe between them was still off somehow. They continued towards the door in silence. Instead of yammering on and on as they had a tendency to do when they came to a door, Chloe grabbed the knob and threw it open. Without another thought or glance towards Lex, she walked through the door.

Looking around, Chloe was struck by the fact that they were now somewhere familiar. It struck her then. “We’re back in the funhouse.” She actually couldn’t believe it.

Lex stepped up behind her, casting a wary glance at his surroundings. Sure enough, it looked like one of the fun house rooms. Old, rotten tapestry, white sheets covering most objects and a few oddities in old glass cases.

”Don't touch anything,” It slipped out of his mouth before he thought of anything else. This was too good to be true, so therefore it had to be a hoax and the damn place was fucking with them again. Most curiously, there were no other doors.

Looking behind himself, even the door they had come through had vanished. 'Figures'.

Shoving her hands in her pockets, Chloe started to walk around the room. It was huge and had many shuttered windows. She walked over to a window and tried to peer out of it, but she couldn’t see past the rotten wood. ‘Yeah, this is much better.’

As she walked towards the center of the room, she saw that a metal track ran through the center of the room. ‘Weird.’ She hunched down to get a better look at the tracks and heard a low rumbling sound. The tracks started to vibrate and she stood up. “I think something’s coming.” She looked over at Lex and then started to glance around the room, trying to see where there was an opening for whatever it was to come into the room.

Lex looked down along the tracks on both ends from the other side seeing that both ended in front of a solid wall. There was no way anything could be coming through in a logical world. This was the funhouse however, so it would definitely not be too surprising if something was in fact coming down the tracks and would just go through a solid wall as if through thin air.

Knowing that telling Chloe to come over would only result in a drawn out discussion why 'she' had to be the one moving, Lex thought better of it and stepped over the tracks, coming to stand beside Chloe. The vibrating and the rumbling sound started to get louder as he took another step away from the tracks.

”Come on, whatever it is is not gonna be small, so we better get out of the way.” He took hold of her arm and pulled her back with him, eyes flicking from one end of the room to the other, trying to discern from which side the thing would appear.

The sound just got louder and louder and while Chloe knew that she should be afraid, she was more curious as to what the hell was about to burst into the room. A bright light filled the room and Chloe shielded her eyes with her arm.

When she put her arm down, she saw that there was now a car on the tracks. It had faded paint that at once time would have been bright shades of green and red. There was a huge light on the front of it. The car itself was empty and came to a stop right in front of where she and Lex were standing.

The walls of the room were still in tact so Chloe surmised that the car had come through the wall, somehow. Which made perfect sense in this place.

Lex looked at the car, then back at Chloe. “I guess we got a free ride,” he shrugged a shoulder as he stepped closer to the car, looking inside. It looked like an ordinary funhouse car. The black interior of the benchseat was worn out and ripped in places and there was no metal bar to secure them.

”Wanna take it?” He put one foot into the car and shifted his weight on it to see if the thing was even solid enough to take it.

“I don’t see that we have much choice in the matter.” No door had appeared and there was no other way out of the place. Plus, Chloe had accepted the fact that they were totally at the whim of whatever was in charge of this place.

They could still make their own decisions when they were given a choice. But, there was no choice right now. It was get in the car or stay in the room, staring at one another or trying to rip the plywood off of the windows.

Lex nodded and sat down then scooted over to make room for Chloe. She gingerly sat down next to him. Before she was really settled, the car lurched forward at a rate that Chloe didn’t think the old contraption was capable of going.

Lex forced himself to keep his eyes open as they zoomed towards the wall and....right through it. He'd been so absorbed by the whole experience that he hadn't realized Chloe's nails had been digging into his skin again, this time, she'd clutched his thigh. He'd remind her to cut her nails sometime soon if this became a habit. As the car kept speeding along too fast to really get a good look at their surroundings, he put his hand on top of hers and turned his face to her. “Do me a favor?”

When she felt Lex touch her, Chloe realized that she was gripping him very tightly. She let up on him and then said, “Depends what it is.” She wasn’t trying to be difficult, but if he asked her to jump out of the car to make it more roomy, she’d have no intention of helping him out.

“Thanks, that was all. I was just going to ask you to pull your claws back a little,” he smirked.

He felt the car slowing down a little and looked around to figure out where they were going. Not that it would do any good, but it always helped to be aware of your surroundings. “Does any of this seem familiar to you?” He didn't recognize the place at all but they were driving through some kind of field that could have been anywhere in rural America.

Chloe threw her arm over the back of the car and turned around as much as was possible. It took her a second, but then she realized where they were. “We’re right near the Kent farm.” She was confused by this new turn of events. “I think that we’re coming up from behind it.”

Even though she tried to prepare herself for it, Chloe still flinched as the car they were in went through the Kent Barn. The car stopped and her eyebrows flew to her hairline as she saw the scene before her. She was in Clark’s arms, her hair dyed black at the ends and she had tons of eye makeup on. “Must be another dimension,” she said to Lex.

Lex chuckled low in his throat. “Actually, it's not. Well it is, but,” Something occurred to him. “You don't remember,” he stated.

“Remember what?” Chloe did not have a good feeling about this. Especially since she, Clark and Lex were not moving at this point in time. It was as if they were paused in their actions. She wracked her brain but there was nothing and she was certain she would remember being carried by Clark like that.

He shook his head, giving the scene a quick once over before turning back to Chloe. He remembered this incident quite well. “Do you remember 4 years ago, when you were investigating the Kawatche caves? You got bitten by a parasite.” He tried to see how much Chloe remembered of that incident. It had been swept under the rug in true Smallville fashion and probably been long forgotten by everyone not personally involved.

Lex watched Chloe's face closely for her reaction and didn't have to wait long until her face scrunched up in thought as she sifted through her mind for things that should be there but weren't.

Yes, she remembered feeling a sharp pain in her neck. But, after that, all she remembered was waking up in the hospital. After that, no one was very forthcoming in telling her what had occurred during the time that she couldn’t remember.

“I remember being in the cave with you, Clark and Dr. Walden . After that,” she shook her head. “the next thing is Lana in the hospital with me.” The other three people were still frozen in their places. “You’re telling me that *this* actually happened.”

Lex nodded. “It did. This must've been a few days after you got bitten and the parasite had its full effect on your body. You were high on adrenalin and absolutely free of any constraints.” He shook his head, “You even had the gall to insult me to my face,” he smirked as he remembered Chloe's exact words. Toupee, right. The only thing worse than a weakness was unsuccessfully covering it up.

She was about to ask how she insulted him when the three of them started moving. She watched as Clark fluidly put her on the ground and she glared at Lex. Her mouth dropped open when she saw the look she gave him and then at the words that came out of her mouth. She actually gasped and her head whipped over to look at the Lex that was next to her.

Lex watched the familiar scene play out and waited for the inevitable to happen. Up until now, the actors where true to script. He shot a sideways glace at Chloe, who was watching him instead of the scene playing out. Weird. If it had been him, he'd have wanted to know what happened more than anything else.

Reverting his eyes back to the scene in front of them he smirked as Chloe's double started walking up to his own running her hand up his chest and throwing him a flirtatious look. She was just about to open her mouth, when his double cut it. Wait a minute. He hadn't said anything, he was sure, but still he heard his double clearly.

“Be careful, Miss Sullivan, you're playing with fire.”

He watched his double grabbing her hand and holding onto it. “That never happened,” he muttered under his breath.

Chloe heard Lex’s words but, by now, her eyes were rooted to the sight of the other Chloe linking her free arm around the back of Lex’s neck and pressing her body against Lex’s. The other Chloe’s eyes never left Lex’s face. Chloe’s mouth dropped open as her double ground her hips against Lex’s as she said, “I’m already burning, can’t you feel it?” ‘God, it sounds like a bad porno.’

Lex's eyes widened as he watched Chloe's double squirming all over his alter ego. “I think we're watching the return of the porn doubles. You never did that the first time around.” His eyes were traveling up and down the other Chloe's body as he spoke, captivated by the scene. God if she'd done that back then, he'd have been seriously tempted.

Shaking his head he pushed that thought away. “I can't believe they won't leave us alone with this shit.” His eyes wandered across the rest of the scene, falling on Clark, standing a few steps back and looking seriously turned on, a shit eating grin spreading over his face. “And I can't believe they have the farmboy watching.”

Some of the embarrassment that she was feeling faded when she realized that this part hadn’t happened. In another second, the other Lex was going to pry her off of his body and this would all be over.

Her eyes moved over to Clark and he was, indeed, watching the two of them with fascination. She looked at where his eyes were rooted to and said, “He’s totally staring at my ass!” She felt indignant and couldn’t believe that he was ogling her so obviously.

Lex flicked his eyes back to Clark a second, narrowing them in a glare as he followed the boys line of sight back to Chloe's rear. He was just about to make a remark when he watched his double's hand close over that same piece of flesh running slowly up and down.

”Maybe you should find a way to cool down a little, then,” his alter ego suggested in the tone he usually kept reserved for potential prey.

”This never happened,” Lex stated again, before he turned to Chloe. “You have to believe me that nothing like that ever happened. You just snarked at me and I let you swish out so I could deal with Clark.”

This was bad, this was in fact horrible. He had no clue why this world insisted on showing them things like that. It didn't help the situation at all and by Chloe's look he could clearly tell that she was mortified by the entire situation. “Chloe, you didn't do anything, believe me.”

But another part of him was insisting on something different. 'It could have happened'. Lex tried to deny it, but the truth was something like this could have happened if he had let it. If he'd said something instead of keeping his lips tightly pressed shut while Chloe was coming on to him, the whole scene might have worked out a lot more like what they were seeing now. But she'd been a teenager and obviously under the influence of something, so he'd kept it shut and moved on. “And I'm glad that I didn't either.”

She nodded, wanting and needing to believe what Lex was telling her. And, she did believe him. If this had happened, she was certain that the funhouse would have used it against him at some point in time. It didn’t make it any less uncomfortable, however.

Her double closed her eyes and a deep, throaty moan escaped her slightly parted lips as she continued to move her hips. The double’s hands gripped Lex’s shoulders for better leverage and her thrusts became stronger. “Clark, you mind leaving us alone so Lex can help me out with that?” The double let go of Lex and took off her jacket and Chloe could see her hardened nipples under the material of her tank top.

Chloe really wished she could speak right about now. She also wished she had a magic wand, those damn slippers or anything that would get them out of here right about now. What was the point of showing her something that didn’t even happen? It was something in the past that could not be changed so there seemed to be little that she or Lex would gain from witnessing this.

She could hear her double panting and watched as she ran her hands up and down Lex’s chest. When her double noticed that Clark hadn’t moved, she looked over her shoulder. Clark looked like a petulant child. “Clark, leave.” The tone of voice she used brooked no argument and Clark shuffled out of the barn, muttering something about not getting to have any fun.

Lex wanted nothing more than this damn charade to stop. This was pointless, showing them something that could have happened but never did and never would. “Why are they showing us this? There's nothing to gain from it.” He spoke more to himself than Chloe, trying to make sense of the whole thing and trying even harder to ignore the rather steamy make out session that was now taking place between their doubles.

“I don’t know,” Chloe said weakly. Lex had read her mind. Things between the doubles were getting past the point of no return. The other Chloe was running her hands over Lex’s head, primal noises were being ripped from his lips. Meanwhile, his hands found their way under her shirt. The other Chloe threw her head back and moaned his name. “I want you inside of me.”

Chloe put her face in her hands, totally mortified. The other Chloes were ones from different universes or whatever. This one was her. Her body was jarred as the car began to move again. She said a silent thank you to whomever was running the show and tried to will away the blush that she knew covered her face.

Lex shifted a little uncomfortably in his chair, trying to adjust himself without being too obvious. The whole scene hadn't left him unaffected and the noises the other Chloe had been making when his double had touched her breast and kissed her neck had definitely send his blood pooling in southern regions.

He held on to the front of the car as it backed out of the barn and got back on the rails outside picking up speed again as it rushed away from Kent Farms.

As the roads of Smallville rushed by, Chloe tried to think of anything to say to Lex that wouldn’t sound odd or forced. When she couldn’t come up with a damn thing, she decided it would be best to remain silent. Lex most likely wouldn’t want to talk about what they just saw. Chloe knew that she didn’t want to.

When she looked back up from studying her hands, which she had just found to be very interesting, she could see that they were approaching Luthor Manor. Her mind went through everything that she had ever said and done in the building. She couldn’t focus on something that would lead to a massive makeout session of the likes that they had just witnessed. She relaxed only slightly as they whizzed through the walls of the Manor.

The car made it up the stairs and Chloe was fairly certain that she knew what room they would end up in. Sure enough, it made its way to the study. She looked over at Lex and he seemed perfectly composed. ‘Great, can’t he freak out a little more.’ It would have made her feel much better if he had.

Lex merely arched an eyebrow as they entered the study, stopping a few feet away from his desk. They could watch the entire room from that angle, including the upper level with the library. He was curious to see what the powers that be would come up with now and at the same time just didn't want to know.

Chloe and him had had quite a few conversations in his study while they had worked together on Lionel's case. It would be interesting to see which one they took to twist it into something that did and would never happen. Whoever the powers that be where, they had a truly warped mind and a favor towards the physical aspect of their relationship it seemed.

As expected, Chloe saw that she and Lex were in the middle of a conversation. She was behind him and his back was turned to her. Instantly, Chloe knew what conversation this was. It was hard to forget. They had never discussed what happened and she knew that Lex would be less than pleased at having to watch this.

“I want him to love me.”

Briefly, Chloe closed her eyes. She remembered how amazed she had been at the simple admission. She looked over at herself and saw that she didn’t even bother to hide that fact. The silence in the room stretched on and she remembered feeling so many conflicting emotions at the time. There were several things that she had wanted to do. However, she had merely told Lex that she had to go and had quickly exited the room.

Lex's jaw clenched tight. The moment he'd caught side of himself standing with his back to Chloe, he'd known just which conversation this was. Watching himself again, being this weak, unable to resist a damn poison his own father had developed, didn't sit well with him. What the hell were they trying to get out of this?

She knew that something different was going to happen but she wasn’t sure of what it was. She watched as her double seemed to make a decision. The other her clearly didn’t know what to say or do to make Lex feel any better.

Tentatively, she closed the gap between them and laid her hand on Lex’s arm. Lex’s double didn’t move and his face remained impassive. However, he didn’t move away from Chloe, either. The other her seemed to take this as an encouraging sign.

“I really don’t know what to say to that, Lex.” Her voice was soft and laced with compassion. Chloe grimaced. She doubted that Lex would appreciate the concern, he would most likely view it as pity and throw her ass out of his house.

‘Oh, please don’t do it, just don’t do it.’ Chloe tried to will her other self to hear her. She had seen that her double had taken yet another step towards Lex. He was watching her avidly yet still not saying a word. Chloe thought about what she had really wanted to do when he had told her that and could see her double was flirting with the very same idea.

Lex watched his alter ego standing motionlessly while the other Chloe approached him. 'At least she's not trying to jump my...his bones'. This was still surreal, watching the what if's and could have happend's in front of his face, knowing that it was a good thing those things had never happened. Back then, if something had happened between them, it would have had no leg to stand on. Chloe had still been in high school and they'd both had enough shit going on at the time without engaging in romantic entanglements of any sort.

Watching the scene unfold he had to wonder though. What had been going on in Chloe's brain at the time. When they'd been in the barn, Lex had to admit he had thought about playing with Chloe, but in a situation like this? He'd been at an all time low, talking about love and acceptance like a needy puppy or something equally pathetic.

He looked closely at the other Chloe's face, trying to figure out what she was thinking at the time. She must've pitied him and he hated that. Didn't want pity of any sort. Yet weirdly enough it didn't look as much like pity as understanding. So she'd cared for him back then already. Or not?

”Were you in love with me back then?” Curiosity killed the cat they said, but since he wasn't a feline, what could it hurt to know?

Her stomach dropped out from under her as she heard the question. It wasn’t enough that he knew that she was in love with him, this damn place wanted him to know how long it had been going on? She considered ignoring the question. It would have been easy with the actions of their doubles. However, after he asked the question, their doubles paused in their actions.

Apparently, the fates wanted this question answered and now Chloe didn’t have an out. She couldn’t pretend to be engrossed in what was happening in front of her. Then there was the fact that she didn’t even know how to answer the question. By this time, she was already impressed with so many facets of Lex that it was hard to determine when that had crossed the line into love.

Chloe considered the question before answering. Why had she even gone to the Manor when he summoned her there? She knew that Lex wasn’t an idiot and must have figured out what was going on with her. That he would question her. So, why had she gone? What had she hoped to accomplish? What truth was she seeking from him?

Lex watched her closely as she fell completely silent, drawing back into herself to think. Usually, he didn't mind giving her the time to figure things out, but sometimes it could be really annoying to wait for an answer that he wanted. Why did it matter so much anyway? Maybe because it would give him a chance to figure out what he'd done to make her feelings change, because honestly, he couldn't think of anything he'd ever done to encourage that kind of feelings in her.

Honestly, she was hoping to get some gauge of how he felt towards her. ‘And why would that be?’ She closed her eyes for a moment, getting her thoughts in order and under control.

“Yes.” And, in some way, her feelings had been cemented for the battered man when he had admitted the truth to her. He was viewed as a dark, conniving person. There were parts of him that were just exactly that. But, at the core, it seemed he strove for what every other person on the face of the planet wanted. He was a complicatedly simple man in what was actually important to him.

Lex nodded silently. “What about before? Before I came back from Belle Reve?” It interested him to know since when Chloe had what was definitely more than a simple teenage crush. If it had just been a crush, she'd have let go of it a long time ago, but obviously her feelings had stayed the same for at least 4 years. That fact amazed Lex to no end. He'd had other relationships since then. True, nothing exactly serious, just a fling here or there, but it boggled his mind to think that Chloe had never given up hope despite everything.

It definitely undermined the theory that real love didn't exist where he was concerned. But he didn't want to dwell too much on that, because that way lay danger.

She knew that if he could, Lex would like an exact time and day that her feelings made themselves known, but it wasn’t that simple. It had come on so gradually that it was hard to pinpoint what she felt about him at any given time. Especially since it was years ago. ‘This place seems to demand honesty,’ she reminded herself.

“I’m not sure.” She glanced over at him and saw that he was studying her as if she were a specimen under a miscroscope. “My feelings for you started before Belle Reve, but I can’t define exactly what they were at that time.”

Lex nodded silently, he could accept that. It seemed that falling in love with someone wasn't always like it had been for him with Desiree and Helen. Seemed with Chloe it had happened gradually over time. He still couldn't wrap his mind around the fact that her feelings had lasted that long with him never being the wiser. If it hadn't been for the factory, he would've been out of Smallville already and probably never given the people there a second thought.

'Not quite true, there' It would have been hard to forget Chloe in any case. She'd played a major role in bringing down his father and since then, they had been seeing each other more often, chatting in the Talon or when they met on the street.

When he realized that the doubles where moving again, he lifted his eyes towards them to see what was going on.

The answer seemed to satisfy the funhouse because the doubles started to move again. Unable to stop it from happening, Chloe watched as her other self moved her arms till they were encircled around Lex. The embrace was brief, her double was probably terrified as to what Lex’s reaction would be. But, as she held him, Chloe heard herself mutter, “I’m sorry.”

Lex could clearly hear the other Chloe's mumbled words and watched as his own double accepted the hug and slowly, albeit uncomfortably brought his hands up to return it for a moment, before trying to step back. He had to admit, it would have been nice. Some part of him would've enjoyed the physical comfort, but it was hard to accept in a world where nothing came without a price.

She didn’t know if she was apologizing for using her new found skill to violate Lex or for what Lex had told her. Most likely both. Her double moved away, but Chloe noticed that she didn’t go too far and held tight to Lex, making it impossible for him to pull away. Her face was very close to Lex’s and she could see and almost feel how nervous she was. Made perfect sense being that it was her.

Still moving very slowly, probably giving Lex ample opportunity to stop her from what she was about to do, her double gently brushed her lips over Lex’s. When she pulled away both Chloe’s studied Lex’s face closely for any sign as to what he was thinking.

Lex tried to keep an impassive face, the same as his double, when the other Chloe repeated her actions and leaned back in, tightening her arms around his double and mumbling something into his shirt that sounded like 'Forgive me?' His gaze slowly slid over to the real Chloe, watching her nervously bite her lower lip, yet unable to look away from their doubles. Some part of him wanted to reach over and take her hand, tell her that it was ok and reassure her, though why? Lex didn't know.

The other part of him was simply fascinated by what was happening between their doubles. He watched himself bring his arms up and around Chloe returning the embrace fully and letting things happen.

Damn he must have really been out of it to let his control slip like that. Remembering back, Lex had to admit, he definitely had been that[/] out of it and if Chloe had approached him like that, again he wouldn't have been able to turn her down. It was a good thing she hadn't. Or was it?

‘Would that really have happened?’ Chloe often wondered how much of her life would have been different if she had even given in [i]once when it came to her natural reactions towards Lex. The way that they were holding each other….true, Chloe was totally and utterly biased, but she thought they looked pretty damn right together.

Her double pulled back again and Lex’s double smirked down at her. His arms were still around her and this must have given the other Chloe some courage. This time, the kiss was more firm and Chloe had to remember to not let her jaw hit the ground when Lex actually started to reciprocate. Rather enthusiastically at that, too.

Lex barely kept his expression in check when he watched himself assault Chloe like that. This was definitely taking a turn for the physical again. Maybe because his own feelings and attraction were mostly physical when it came to her? He wasn't sure, but it could be a possibility, which of course meant that nothing could ever happen between them, because it would give Chloe the wrong idea. This was just getting too much and Lex couldn't take one more minute of watching himself doing something he'd never get to do for real. “I think we should get out of this damn car and find our own way out, don't you?” He turned around in his seat to face Chloe, surprised to find her blushing and staring at her own hands. After all that they'd already seen she could still blush at something like a kiss? Glancing back at their doubles, he had to admit that it looked damn hot but still.

For some reason, this was more embarrassing than anything else. Chloe thought it was because it was just too intimate to watch herself and Lex kiss like they flat out needed each other. She wondered if Lex just wanted to get out of the car because of what it was showing them or if he really thought it would be better for them to find another part of the funhouse.

A. Get out of the car
B. Stay in the car

[lexchloe]

:applause: Loving the update guys. This story has me completely hooked and I look forward to updates with bated breath. I'm going to choose B. this time. hopefully seeing his double give in to the power of Chloe will make Lex do the same. :chlexsign2:

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: damn this just keeps getting better!!! BBBBBBBBB!!

[sydsvaughn]

Did I mention I LOVE how you portrayed what every darned Chlexer would have liked to see those two scenes turn into? If only. Sigh.

I loved this... and well, hey, I'm going with "B" ... who knows, I feel the letter of choice.

SaraC

[hfce]

I love these doubles. I like that they are showing lex what Chloe can be for him.

I will choose B.... :blinkkiss:


hope :chlexsign2:

[sylvia]

B. STAY IN THE DAMN CAR! And hopefully somewhere along the way Lex will recognise his need for Chloe and won't be able to hold out. Stubborn man.

Awesome chapter, by the way. I really enjoyed their reactions to their doubles. More soon please!

[Béatrice]

A big B!!!

[autumngold]

I have to pick B also!! Please let Lex realize what Chloe could mean to him!! Great update!! :chlexsign4:

[buddyfozzy]

Wow! This was a really great chapter....you guys write chlex so well! :wub:

I'll go with B :biggrin:

[buffiy18]

I am so glad you decided to use my all time favorite scene of all Smallville... the Turth scene in the Study. I just die at the honesty Lex has in that scene... and here too. I really have enjoyed this chapter. I wish Lex would have given in to his impulse and grabed Chloe's hand while watching this scene. But I think he's getting closer to realizing his feelings.

I say B... stay in the car.

[BlueSabby]

Chloe didn’t have a chance to make a decision. It seemed as if the funhouse had heard Lex’s question and decided for them. The car sprung to life and was going far too fast for them to jump out of it. Chloe hung on to the side of the car and closed her eyes as they sped down and out of Luthor Manor.

Lex tried to keep an eye on his surroundings, but the car was going too fast for that. He knew he should have gotten out of that damn thing right away. Now they were on their way to god knows where.

When the car slowed down again, they were in front of the school parking lot, heading for the main entrance. Inside, the halls were empty as the car made it's way up the stairs. They were heading for the torch office it seemed.

”Seems we're gonna wander down memory lane some more.”

As the car approached her office, she tried to think of a specific moment that the funhouse would show them. She couldn’t remember any one, particular time that she had stopped herself from doing something incredible stupid.

Then, she started to try and think if there was a time that she was taken over by another force. Cause, that was the first thing that the fun house had shown her. She still hadn’t come up with anything when the car stopped in her office.

Lex watched himself standing beside Chloe's double who was sitting at her desk. They were glancing squarely at each other. Frozen in the middle of their conversation. Watching himself in very casual gear, Lex remembered which conversation that was. It wasn't any day he traded his suit for zip-ups and sweaters.

Before he could say anything else to Chloe, the scene came to life.

”Oh really, a story that involves obscure childhood medical records?”

Hah, he'd nailed her on that one. She really should have been more careful with using her name while digging for information.

”Just trying to be thorough,”

He watched Chloe's cheeky grin and his own reaction to it. Lex was pleased that he'd kept his facial expression neutral even through their cat and mouse game.

”The mark of a good reporter.”

He wondered how the powers would try to turn that conversation around, since at the time, the only thing he'd had on his mind was finding out how much Chloe knew and how he could get the information out of her.

Now Chloe remembered this conversation. When Lex had revealed why he was there, she had felt trapped. But, only for a moment. She had worse things to deal with at that time than Lex. Plus, if he had anything that damning on her, she doubted that he’d give her the courtesy of a warning.

However, this conversation had come before the last one that they had been shown so she didn’t get why they were seeing this one now.

“And you are a good reporter, Chloe.”

She had thought that if Lex was under the impression that she would just tell all after a small compliment from him, he had another thing coming. But, she more had gotten the feeling that he was playing with her. Feeling out the situation. Hence the face that she had made at the comment.

“So good apparently that my father pulled strings to make you the youngest columnist in the history of the Daily Planet.”

Chloe was sick of Lex dancing around the subject. She was nervous and on edge and that was why she had responded with a curt, “What do you want, Lex?” At least that way they would get this over with as soon as was humanly possible.

“I'm just curious, wondering why a high school reporter is digging so deeply in my father's past.”

Now that had been a half truth. After he'd looked through all the records she'd been pulling up, Lex had already had a pretty good idea what Chloe was after. She was digging way into the past, so he could only assume that it had something to do with the things that gave Lionel the means to build his empire in the first place. Lex had been digging into the very same subject for a while before that already.

He'd pushed a little further when Chloe hadn't been forthcoming with an answer.

”Maybe I'll just ask him about it at dinner tonight.”

It had been a risky comment, but it was well worth it if he could get anything out of her.

Chloe had been surprised when Lex had made such a simple mistake. Did he really think that she would believe him when he said that. It was preposterous that she would discuss any of their conversation with Lionel.

Off-handedly she said, “Go ahead, since the only way you could have found out about those records is if you looked into them yourself.” She knew she had scored a direct hit when Lex had stopped in his tracks.

Maybe he was too used to dealing with people that just kowtowed to him and didn’t talk back. Or talking to Clark or Lana who didn’t think when he would hit them with something like that. Either way, Lex appeared to be surprised to be caught in a trap with his own words. If the situation had been different, Chloe would have been very pleased with herself. As it was, she was just trying to survive the conversation.

Lex hadn't been too surprised back then that she'd turned around and used his comment against him. But he had definitely been impressed at her guts. That was the moment he'd realized there was much more to Chloe Sullivan than one would expect.

Oh he got it now. So the crux of this whole funride was to see all the situations where something could have happened, to make them think about their 'feelings'. Be that as it may, it wasn't a new thing to him that he was impressed by Chloe, or that he was attracted to her on a physical level. This whole ride was pretty pointless.

He leaned over towards Chloe. “I figured out why we're going through this.”

Abruptly, all motion in the scene in front of them stopped.

Chloe looked away from their now paused former selves and looked back at Lex. She was curious to his interpretation. Mostly because she honestly didn’t see how thisconversation would have led to a hot and heavy make out session.

Then again, if Lex had just grabbed her and kissed her, even at that point in time, she would have given in before pushing him away and asking what the hell he thought he was doing.

“Do tell,” she said.

“Well this whole arrangement is a line of 'what could have happened if's. It's basically supposed to show us what might have happened if we'd done something different or said something different. Interesting enough, this place seems to have a penchant for physical relationships it seems. Because all we've seen so far looks like a spur of the moment fling to me, or don't you agree?”

As a matter of fact, Chloe didn’t agree. The first one, yes, that was all about primal lust. She had seen the way that they had clawed at one another. But, the second scene was very different. Lex had opened up to her and the emotions in the room had been almost palpable. ‘To you,’ she reminded herself.

Lex was the only one who knew what he was feeling when he admitted the truth to her. Maybe the whole interchange between them afterwards had been a means to an end. Maybe after the embrace, he would have just slept with her as a way to exact his revenge. ‘Lex would never do that,’ she reminded herself.

She was just grasping at straws because she didn’t want to admit to Lex that she thought the interplay between them in the office was something powerful. She didn’t want to listen to him shoot it down. But, if she had learned one thing, it was that this place wanted her to be honest with him.

“I think that that’s true for the first thing we saw between us, but not the second.” There, now she’d see what he’d do with that.

Lex shook his head. Chloe really couldn't know him very well, or she had a very distorted image of him if she thought what she'd seen there had been anything other than a fling. But how could he explain it to her without hurting her feelings? “Chloe, it looked to me like an emotional moment that got out of control. I normally don't let my emotions come to the surface for that exact reason. I can't tell what would have happened after this scene, but it would have gone one of two ways. Either, we would have had sex and I would have regretted it the very next day, or I would have stopped it before it went too far, considering that I do care about you as a friend.”

For the bigger part of his life, sex had been a means to an end, and there was no way he could guarantee he wouldn't have fallen back into old habits if given the opportunity while being that out of it.

“None of those scenes are portraying us in a relationship together. They only show us getting it on, for one damn reason or another. Hell, supposedly we are meant to end up together, yet they didn't even show us on a goddamn date.”

It was hard to explain this logically, since the whole subject was highly irrational. It just irked him to think that they were supposed to be good for each other, yet he'd seen no tangible proof of that so far.

The powers that be were definitely doing a pisspoor job at convincing him about his feelings for Chloe. Whatever they might be beyond what he was already sure of.

Even though Chloe could see that Lex was choosing his words carefully, doing his best not to hurt her, it still stung to hear them. What’s more, it was humiliating, too. She had told him twice already that she was in love with him and hadn’t gotten anywhere. What was the point of this whole trial? If Lex didn’t feel anything for her why did she have to continue to put up with it.

Though she wasn’t aware of her actions, she pulled her knees up and hugged them close to her body. She thought about what Lex was saying and just nodded. She didn’t really trust her voice at this point in time. She hated feeling like this and being so damn weak in front of Lex. But, really, how much more of this was she supposed to take?

Chloe had just taken the word of the other Chloe over the phone because she wanted to believe so badly that Lex felt something for her. What if she had been wrong or what if she had just been lying to her? It looked more likely that this was about admitting and accepting that Lex didn’t have any feelings for her.

That thought hit her like a ton of bricks. And seemed more likely looking at what they had gone through. Yes, Lex was attracted to her and considered her to be a friend. But, anything more than that? He was right, it had all just been physical between them. She cleared her throat. “I see your point.”

She looked miserable and Lex wanted to kick himself for it. He hadn't meant to hurt her feelings and he'd thought he'd chosen his words in a way that showed her that he did care and that would spare her the pain. “Chloe,” She was still curled up into a ball beside him and looking straight ahead.

He reached out to put a hand on her arm when the car reared backwards, careening him right into Chloe. They were flung back, this time Chloe on top of him, when the car reared again, this time taking a turn backwards to the right before it shot off, straight ahead and out of the scene at breakneck speed.

”Fuck, are you ok?”

Chloe pushed off of Lex’s chest, determined to get back into her own seat. Once she had succeed she said, “Yeah, I’m fine.” She was more concerned now with where in the hell they were being taken. She couldn’t help but feel like the powers of the fun house where having a little hissy fit.

The car was making sharp turns and they were going faster than they ever had before. When the car finally slowed down, Chloe could see that it looked like they were out in the middle of nowhere. A farm was coming up directly in front of them and Chloe tried to place it. It didn’t look familiar. She looked over at Lex, “This place ringing any bells for you?”

Lex looked around him and at the spacious ranch, just a few yards away. “Yeah, but it breaks with the theme the house had going.” What in the hell were they doing here? Were the powers changing gears again and making him face another childhood trauma? “This is my mother's ranch in Montana. My father sold it after she died.” He explained off-handedly while still trying to figure out what this new development could be all about.

They were coming closer to the house from the front and he could just make out the stables behind it on the right.

A young child came running out of the stables, making a mad dash for the front porch.

”Mommy, mommy, come fast!”

Lex tried to get a closer look at the kid. It was obviously a boy and the flaming red hair left no guess open as to who this was.

“And that would be me,” he pointed at the small boy who was banging up the stairs to the front door now

Chloe couldn’t help but smile at the urgency and seriousness in the boy’s tone of voice. He was on the front porch and jumping up and down now. When he turned around, Chloe got a good look at his face. ‘Weird.’ Chloe knew that people’s faces underwent changes from childhood to adulthood but the boy only bore a resemblance to Lex.

“Do you remember what was so important,” Chloe asked as Lex continued to yell inside the house.

Lex searched his mind to remember, but came up empty. “Not off the top of my head, no. But it must've been something about the horses.” He pointed at the building behind the main house. “Those are the stables over there.”

He turned his gaze back to the front porch when a loud squeaking of hinges signaled the front door opening. It didn't matter how many times they had oiled those, they'd always made one hell of a noise.

”Mommy, mommy, you gotta come. Swifty is having her baby!”

Lex's brows furrowed. He didn't remember a horse named Swifty. And he still remembered all the horses' names clearly.

His eyes widened as he watched an elegant woman with long blonde hair step out of the doorway and take the boy's hand.

”That's not my mother.” Brilliant, Lex. Stating the obvious definitely helped to figure out what's going on.

Chloe turned her attention back to the porch and tried to get a good look at the woman’s face. The boy was now directly blocking the woman’s face. Chloe sat up in the car and was jarred back to her seat when it started to move closer to the two people that were now on the porch.

This was definitely odd, even for this place. There was no way that Lex wouldn’t recognize his own mother so what was going on? Why substitute his mother for some other chick? If the funhouse was going to play at how different they both would have been with different mothers….well, that was just dumb.

When they got closer Chloe heard herself distantly say, “oh, god.” She had caught sight of the woman’s face. She realized that she shouldn’t have been all that surprised being that she had seen other forms of herself but then realized the implications of the small child that looked like Lex calling her Mommy.

She shook her head, refusing to accept what she saw. It wasn’t possible. That couldn’t be…….She leaned further back in her chair when Lex came out of the house, too.

Lex's jaw wasn't far from dropping when he watched an older version of himself joining the woman on the front porch. By now, there was no denying it that that woman was Chloe. And the little boy that looked a lot like himself was Chloe's son. Didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that equation.

“I guess I was asking for it,” he muttered as he kept watching the scene.

”Mom, Dad, Dr. Marsden says to come, quick. Swifty's having her baby, she's having it now, come on. I wanna watch. Hurry up.”

Lex watched as the older version of Chloe was pulled along by the boy. Definitely had the rambling from her side of the family. But all this still didn't explain why the hell they were on a ranch that had been sold to god only knew who over a decade ago.

Chloe had had it. She didn’t want to see anymore. It was one thing to accept the fact that she would never get Lex. It was quite another to be shown a family that she would never have. Lex had had a good idea before and she would put it into play.

Quickly, Chloe climbed out of the car and backed away as the threesome strode past her. Her future self was smiling down at her son and said, “Ok, but you have to remember what Daddy told you about not getting in the way.”

The boy looked up at her and nodded. “I won’t. Now come on. We’re gonna miss it.” She saw the future Lex and Chloe smile at each other. The boy pulled on Chloe’s arm and picked up speed. The other Lex bent down and picked up his son, throwing him over his shoulder.

“I think that this is the quickest way to get you there.” The boy laughed, a high pitched sound that was full of joy and mirth. “Faster, Daddy,” he instructed.

Chloe heard her other self laugh and saw that she was shaking her head at the two Luthor men.

Finally able to tear her eyes away from them, Chloe looked at Lex. He was still sitting in the car watching the family. “Lex.” He didn’t look over at her. “Lex!” His head whipped around. “Let’s get out of here.”

It took Lex a moment to tear his eyes away from the scene, but when Chloe's second call came much more insistent, he swerved around to look at her. She'd already stepped a few feet away from the scene and looked even worse than she had before.

Lex had no idea why this was hitting her so much. After all, it was much less intense than the other scenes. They weren't even holding hands or anything. But the implications were very different from the other scenes they'd seen.

Maybe that was it. It was ok watching them make out and go at it, having a raunchy affair. But when she was confronted with something so serious, something that implied a longstanding relationship she panicked and wanted to get out. Figures. What had he expected? Of course Chloe didn't think in terms of marriage and family when she said she was in love with him. He should have known better.

Resolved, he stepped out of the car and walked up to her.

“And where exactly do you want to go from here?” He shoved his hands in his pockets as he watched her expectantly. “Why so keen on getting away all of a sudden anyway? You were alright with the other two scenes it seemed.”

Chloe could hear that Lex’s voice was laced with a bit of anger. Why would he be so angry about this? She didn’t have time to dwell on that right now. She had to get away from this torture and it had to be now. But, she could see that Lex was not about to go anywhere without getting his questions answered.

“That was different,” she explained. “Those things, they were in the past there was nothing that either of us could do to change them. This,” she waved her hand in the direction of the stables, “is another thing all together. You were right before. Way before.” She started to rub her temples and saw concern flicker over Lex’s face.

And why not, she could hear that she sounded like a crazy person. “This wasn’t about us. It was about me.” She looked back up at him. “You don’t love me. I get that now. And, I can live with that.” Her gaze once again was drawn to the stables. “But, to show me something that I will never have? I can’t take that, Lex. To see our child.” She shook her head. “It’s not fair to do to me, it’s cruel in so many ways. Now, whenever I look at you, I will see everything that I lost. This place hasn’t played fair at all, but this is over the line and I won’t stand idly by and just take it.”

He had to get it now. If he didn’t, Chloe would just leave him standing out here, she didn’t give a damn anymore. Anything to be away from the family.

His mouth formed a silent 'oh' as the puzzle pieces fell apart and together again to make up a completely different picture. He hadn't even thought about that possibility. This had to wreak havoc on her. Lex cursed himself for making his earlier comment and goading the powers in this place to pull a stunt like that.

Looking up to the blue skies above, he muttered fiercely under his breath. “Make it stop, you're only hurting her.” He was sure that whoever ruled this place could hear them at all times.

He jogged to catch up with Chloe, trying to grab her arm to make her slow down. “Hey, hey wait a moment.” She ignored him completely, stomping on without looking where she went. “Chloe, please.”

Chloe turned around but continued walking. “No,” she said, forcefully. “I don’t care what it gives me now. I don’t care how many times I have to replay feeling helpless with Clark behind me or my mother screaming that she doesn’t love me and never did. I’m getting the fuck out of here and I’m doing it now.” She turned back around and started jogging away from the house and stable.

She heard Lex behind her calling her name but ignored him. It didn’t matter if he followed her or not, she’d leave him behind if she had to. Maybe that would actually get them out of here. She had mentally accepted that he would never love her. Maybe there had to be some sort of physical sever as well to get them back to their lives.

“Damn, stubborn woman,” Lex cursed under his breath as he broke into a run to catch up with her. “Will you fucking WAIT!” She was behaving like a child now and that wouldn't get them anywhere.

On top of that, she didn't have a clue where she was running. Knowing this place, it was most likely head long into trouble. “Would you STOP running away from me?”

She'd started running as well, but Lex had the longer legs, so he gave himself a push and had reached her in a few seconds, throwing his arms around her waist and sending them crashing down onto the grass. "Will you listen to me now?" He forced out while he tried to get a hold of her flailing arms and pin down her kicking legs.

Just because Chloe knew that she was acting like a lunatic didn’t help her to stop from doing so. She never thought that Lex would actually tackle her in order to stop her from getting away. She got the wind knocked out of her but continued to struggle under him.

Briefly, she considered kneeing him. Maybe if she rendered him unable to have children, this whole world would just fade away. When she accepted that Lex was stronger and that this wasn’t a fight that she was going to win, Chloe went limp under him.

Trying to get herself under control, she looked up at him and said, “Fine, I’m listening. So, speak.”

She knew that Lex would be very rational about the situation since his emotions weren’t involved at all with what he had just seen. If anything, he’d want to get away from it, too. Just to avoid an uncomfortable situation between the two of them. She took a deep breath and concentrated on slowing down her heart beat.

Looking down at Chloe, he tried to gather his thoughts. This wasn't going to be an easy conversation and it surely wasn't helping that Chloe looked as miserable as ever. He wasn't sure if she'd even realized that her eyes were teary and that the look on her face spelled devastation.

He didn't think there was a way to fix that. “This wasn't fair, you're right Chloe. What they showed us there was absolutely uncalled for and of course it's wreaking havoc on you and I understand that. But why are you running away from me because of it?”

It really bothered him that she'd reacted the way she had, as if it was his fault that they'd ended up here. Well maybe it was, at least where this particular scenario was concerned. “Listen, this is only one particular way that the future could work out. And even if it doesn't, I mean, do you really think you can't be happy anyway?”

Chloe had her lips pressed tightly together. Her expression had turned into a defiant scowl. “Don't let them convince you of that, Chloe. Your happiness isn't all depending on my feelings for you. That's not love.” He tried to gauge her reaction, but for the first time it proved really hard to read her face.

She wanted to respond to what he was saying, but she didn’t want to do it with him sprawled all over her. Careful to keep her voice devoid of any type of emotion that Lex could misconstrue, she asked, “Could you please get off of me before I answer your question?”

Lex nodded silently and started to shift his weight on his legs on either side of Chloe. “Promise not to run.” He pointed a finger at her as he shifted his weight further back.

Rolling her eyes, Chloe said, “I promise.” She could see where Lex was coming from, but he was wrong about why she had turned tail and made like the wind.

Seeming to take her word, Lex climbed off of her. Chloe scooted away from him and stood up, brushing some leaves and grass off of her. She looked around and noticed that, in this dimension, it was fall. “I wasn’t running from you.” She wanted him to know that, first of all.

“I was running from them. I know that you’re trying to understand and you’re being very patient with me and I appreciate it.” She meant that, too. If nothing else, Lex had proven that he truly was her friend. Nevertheless, she had made a decision about when they got back. She wouldn’t be seeing much of Lex. It was better for both of them. Her reasons were obvious, but it wasn’t fair to put Lex in a position where he had to worry about her whenever they were together.

Lex stood up as well and kept a little space between them, giving Chloe the room she obviously needed. He nodded silently, but didn't interrupt her.

“But,” she paused. “The truth is that you can’t really understand. Even though you want to and it’s not your fault, it is what it is.” Here’s where things got sticky. “As for my future happiness,” she shrugged, “maybe you’re right, I don’t know. But, people don’t forget the first person they ever love. It’s been years, Lex, my feelings aren’t just going to up and disappear one day. Even when I do get over you,” she’d throw him that bone, at least, “do you really think that I’ll forget seeing a child that we had together? I’m sorry that I freaked out and I’ll try to keep it together, but I don’t know how realistic that is. I don’t want to go back there. And, if you try and make me..” Chloe trailed off.

Lex held his hands up in a placating gesture. “If you don't want to go back there, I sure won't make you. I'm sorry, Chloe,” 'There I go again, apologizing when I don't even have to. What's wrong with me?'

Part of him wanted to go back to the farm, though. He'd definitely liked what he'd seen. It had been a shock of course, but knowing what he did, now... If this place was showing them the truth, and so far that seemed to be the case, Chloe's feelings were honest and would hold true.

He'd been astounded at the change he'd seen in his other self. Even though the other Lex was years older, he didn't look worn down or burned out in the least. He'd obviously bought back the ranch at some point. Lex wondered if it was just a vacation place for the family, or if they really lived there.

Lex was beyond curious, yes, but he also wasn't sure what good it would do to see something that would likely never really happen. He wasn't as riled up about it as Chloe was, but it was weird if you thought about it logically. Why would he want to see this. 'I want to know what it's like.'

Still, Chloe didn't want to see this and he wouldn't put her through hell just to satisfy his own morbid curiosity. “Let's see if we can find a way out of here, ok?”

He motioned for Chloe to go on and cast one last glance back at the spacious ranch and the stables in the distance, before turning around and following Chloe.

Chloe felt her body relax. “Thank you, Lex.” She felt bad that he obviously thought all this was his fault. “But, you don’t need to keep apologizing; it’s not your fault.”

Lex shrugged as he followed her. He wouldn't go put the blame on himself in front of her. If she thought it wasn't his fault, that was well and good. “So, over there is the woods and to the other side is miles of fields, which shall it be?”

A. Woods
B. Field

[autumngold]

I can't stop crying, :crygreen: poor Chloe!! It must be so hard to see a perfect future that you will never have!! Thanks for the update!! I think I'll pick B!! :chlexsign3:

[sydsvaughn]

You know, you both have the power to make me cry and then scream within seconds of each other. I could literally feel Chloe's pain--and that says something.

I am going with "A" however-- it might be for the worse, but I've always preferred woods to fields!!

SaraC

[S.Ann Smith]

A! Woods are so much more romantic ;) then they can bring out some more emotions if you catch my drift ;)

[Queen Of Tact]

OMG I so loved the update!!!!! Poor Chloe :crygreen: seeing that must have been so hard on her...... Lex you know you love her why can't u just tell her!!!!

hmmm I say go with A... I mean not all woods can be bad right?.........Right?




CC

[kezz]

That last chapter was absolute torture, poor Chloe I felt like crying for her.

Being in love with someone who doesn't love you back is bad enough, but having them know that you love them and to keep having it shoved in your face that you will never be with them or having to watch what you will never be must be just awful.

You know the worst part of all of this is that even if Lex does come to his senses, there is a possibility that Chloe won't believe that he really loves her and is only saying he does so that they can get out or out of some sort of misguided pity.

Mind you, maybe it wouldn't be such a bad idea to make Lex beg. At least then he would have some idea of how Chloe is feeling right about now.

Anyway, enough rambling. I pick A. Maybe some naughty little wood nymphs can cart Chloe off, leaving Lex on his own so that he realises how much he misses her! :devil:

Whatever the result just update soon 'k?!

Kezz...x.x.x.

[sylvia]

Damn the house, for making things so difficult for Chloe. When is Lex going to get one up his ass, huh? Not that I'm sadistic or have no sympathy for Woobie!Lex (quite the opposite, actually), but gender equality! Why does Chloe keep getting all the shit?

And as for the options, I pick whichever one makes Lex admit his hidden feelings for her. Oh, all right, B I guess.

[lexchloe]

Does anyone else feel like grabbing Lex and :hammer: ? Loving the update even though Chloe's going through so much pain. The Lex in this story is really beginning to try my patience though :rage: but I'm hoping that Chloe's wrong and that Lex has to realise that he actually does love her before they can leave. I'm torn here cos B sounds waaaayyyyyy safer than A (the woods could be :evil: ) In this world they're probably screwed either way so I'm gona pick...... A. Can't wait for more.

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: WOODS!!!! and damn fantastic chappy people!

[chril1]

although i would say fields, they dont provide cover, but woods have bugs

so

A

love lea
xxx

[hfce]

Lex :nobad: and chloe :cryblue:

I pick A . :puppyeyes:


Hope :sad:

[Béatrice]

B... the fields

[marrycherry]

AAAAA ....

[kezz]

Aaaaaahhhh! it's 8-3 for the woods so just update already! PLEASE!

Honestly you get me all addicted and then you take away my source. You are are naughty, naughty people.

Kezz......x.x.x.

[BlueSabby]

A/N:Sabby: So here we finally go with the next installment. Into the Woods, and well, heh we'll see how far they get with running away *G* Enjoy.

A/N: Blue: Chloe in pain is no fun, I agree. So, um, you may want to turn back now, kiddies.



She turned around and started walking in the direction of the woods that she had been running. “This way.”

There was no reason for her choice other than the fact that the woods were closer than the fields. She wanted to put as much space between them and their doubles as was possible. Chloe also wished that she could stop thinking about how happy the two, scratch that, three of them had looked together.

They entered the woods through a break in the trees. After a few feet, Chloe was rethinking her choice. Even though it was a sunny, beautiful day the trees were thickly packed and not a lot of light made its way through. Chloe clamped down on the creepy feelings that were creeping up on her.

Lex followed Chloe, wondering how she could set such a brisk pace when she didn't even know the territory, if she stumbled over a root like that, she'd be lucky if her ankle only got twisted.

Finally she started to slow down a bit as they got deeper into the forest and the light died down to a dim stream through the thick canopies of the trees.

”There's not many animals left in these woods. Well nowadays there isn't. Only a few deer and the likes,” he commented as Chloe jerked around when a strange sound came from the undergrowth.

As she continued on her way, Chloe made a noncommittal noise. She wasn’t in the mood for small talk. Not until they were at least three other dimensions from where they were now. She knew that Lex was just trying to calm her down, but that wasn’t about to happen any time soon.

It didn’t take long before Chloe found what she was looking for. A huge set of oak, double doors appeared before them. They were standing between two massive trees that reached towards the sky. She sighed in relief and opened one of the doors with a flourish and gestured for Lex to go in first.

Lex stepped past her and through the door, hardly getting out a 'damn' before Chloe followed after him and the door they'd come through slammed shut and disappeared.

”You might wanna keep your eyes closed,” he said as he turned back towards Chloe, but it was already too late.

Her eyes widened. They were back in the ranch house. And, as if that wasn’t bad enough, they were in the bedroom. And as if that wasn’t bad enough, her other self and Lex were in the bed. They were lying next to each other, Lex’s arms around Chloe. She was dressed in a deep red, silk pajama top and Chloe could see that Lex was wearing the bottoms.

Whirling around, Chloe grasped the handle and yanked as hard as she could. It was no use, the bedroom door wouldn’t move. “Why? Why? Why?” she chanted before giving it a smack for good measure. She only succeeded in causing her hand to sting and the bedroom door still remained closed, mocking her as much as an inanimate object could.

Lex watched Chloe's fruitless fight with the door handle for a moment, before he slowly walked over and covered her hand with his.

”I don't think they want to let us out yet.” His attention was caught as their doubles started talking.

“Hmmm, moving here was a very good idea,” He heard the older Chloe say.

As he turned around, he watched her snuggling against him, her fingers running idly up and down his double's chest.

”Yeah, it was definitely one of my smarter plans,” he heard himself say.

Chloe turned around and watched her double pull herself up a little before starting to kiss the other Lex’s neck a few times. “Mmmmm,” she murmured, “after begging me to marry you,” she smiled at her Lex, “it may be your smartest plan ever.”

The other Lex chuckled and Chloe said, “It was fun to watch Lucas freak out over actually being in charge of something.” The other Chloe laughed, obviously remembering something that Lex’s brother had done in this world.

“Firstly,” the other Lex said, “if memory serves, I had you begging just a few minutes ago so I wouldn’t be too terribly smug.” His voice had taken on a low, seductive timbre that Chloe had never heard directed at anyone. “Secondly,” his voice went back to normal, “I asked you, there was no begging. And, thirdly, if I had known how amusing Lucas could be under pressure I would have run for the Senate years ago. I think Montana agrees with us more than Kansas ever did.”

‘You’ve got to be kidding me,’ Chloe thought. Not only were she and Lex married, they looked blissfully happy with each other and had moved not to Metropolis but to Montana! Her mind actually boggled at the thought of Lex working on a farm. As a child was one thing, but as an adult was something else.

She knew that they had to have help, but she also knew that Lex would want to handle some things on his own.

Lex had leaned back against the nearest wall to keep from falling. This sounded too good to be true. The powers had to be fucking with them. Senator, married, happy beyond belief? There had to be a catch, something. It just wasn't possible that just because he was together with Chloe his life was all hearts and roses. That was just too far out there to be true.

'Well, Lucas is running your business' True, that couldn't be a good thing. His brother was a gambler, a filou, not a business man. Ok, this future had to be a hoax, he'd never give his brother control of the plant. No way.

Lex cleared his throat and looked over at Chloe. “I think we've heard enough, try the door again?” he cursed his voice for almost faltering at the beginning of the sentence.

Even though she didn’t think it would work, she did as requested. The door still wouldn’t budge. She just prayed that the two of them wouldn’t start to go at it in front of them. “It doesn’t move, you’re welcome to try it.” But, Lex stayed where he was. Chloe walked away from the door and sat down in the chair that went along with her vanity mirror.

Seriously, this was not helping her to accept Lex’s nonfeelings for her. Well, at least the kid wasn’t in the room, that helped a little.

Her other self nodded and said, “Yeah, no freaks that wear pink all the time or old friends that just show up dressed in tights and flying around, begging for forgiveness.” She started to laugh, “Do you remember when Jacob first saw him fly.” The other Chloe stopped and laughed harder, “Clark looked so surprised and actually scared when Jacob freaked out and started throwing stuff at him.”

The other Chloe shook her head. “And then, whenever he met someone for a week he asked them if they knew how to fly.”

When her double had mentioned the name of their child, Chloe’s heart had constricted. There was something about knowing his name. It made him more real.

Lex started at the mention of Clark and his child’s name. At least they hadn't forgiven the bastard for what he did. And his son had even had the courage to attack the alien. He had to forcefully clamp down on that train of thought. He didn't have a son and this wasn't real, it was just a scenario that the powers in his place showed them to fuck with their minds and emotions.

He couldn't let this influence him. He wasn't even sure what he felt for Chloe so there was no reason to go and get himself lost in a possible outcome of a possible relationship.

And since when was there a possible relationship? Lex sunk slowly down to the ground, trying to shut out his surroundings to think. They weren't threatened here and obviously not going anywhere so maybe this was finally the time to analyze his feelings.

Chloe noticed that Lex was on the floor now and he was staring intently at the couple in the bed. She wondered what he was thinking and if he was affected at all by what they were being shown. Or, if he was thinking how implausible and stupid this whole thing was.

She wondered what had gotten this version of them together, how long they had been married and what the hell she did all day long while Lex was out making laws or whatever the hell it was that he did all day.

“I still worry about him, though.” Chloe’s ears perked up at this. Ok, maybe their kid was really odd and messed up, that would be something. She couldn’t believe that she was now rooting for her child to be anything but normal. At least that would burst the perfect life and couple bubble that they now resided in.

The other Lex sat up a little and looked down at his wife. “Why? What have you noticed?” The concern was obvious in his voice. Chloe could see her other self suppress a smile. “Nothing significant. I think he’s lonely out here.”

Lex hadn't even started sorting through his thoughts when his attention was pulled back to the scene again by Chloe's commentary. There was the catch, he'd sacrifice his own child’s happiness because he wanted something. Go figure.

”Maybe for now, but he'll start school in a couple of months and I'm sure he'll make a lot of friends. This place is gonna be full of kids running around before you can say 'stop please',” the other Lex chuckled.

'Or not.' Lex shook his head at the frustrating perfection of this scenario. It seemed life was a fairy tale, how sickeningly sweet.

He turned his focus inward again. Trying to forget about all he'd heard and seen so far, he forced himself to focus on Chloe as she was, right now, in their normal dimension.

She was going to college, editing the college newspaper and writing freelance articles in her spare time. He'd always admired her for her devotion to work. It was something they had in common. She could dedicate herself completely to a subject and stick to it, even if things got rough. That had proven very useful when they'd worked together on Lionel's case. She'd almost died in the process, but never left him hanging despite of it all.

Chloe was also very passionate in everything she did and Lex found he liked that, too. Her positive, sometimes even bubbly personality could make him smile and even laugh if he allowed it. Lex could admit there were times when he seriously needed that.

Of course there was also the other side of the coin when it came to Chloe's passion. She was stubborn and headstrong and sometimes she just didn't know to heed the lines drawn. That made for a lot of the friction between them, because Lex had learned to draw a lot of lines in his life. Chloe also had a tendency to jump head first into things and think later.

Lex, however, liked to have plans, schemes, thought out schedules. He liked his life organized and he liked to be in control of everything at every point in time. He could imagine the mess Chloe was capable of creating if he let her.

But her spontaneity was also something that made her attractive. With Chloe, things never got anywhere close to boring. She was an excellent conversationalist and Lex loved bantering with her, there was just no other way to put it.

So he admired her, he liked her...a lot, he knew her weaknesses and her bad habits and had already decided he'd be able to handle them. Where did that leave him?

He didn't feel the same way for Chloe like he had for Helen, but that had been mostly physical. He'd been high as a kite under the influence of her pheromones and Desiree could have swallowed raw frogs in front of his face and he would have loved her for it.

It wasn't the same as with Helen, either. It wasn't about a challenge or having someone to look to for moral guidance. Chloe provided none of those. She didn't expect anything from him, and she'd already admitted her feelings, making any challenge angle moot. So what was it?

Wouldn't he know if he was in love with Chloe? Wouldn't he feel it? There had to be some sign, some 'symptoms' if you liked. Just something that gave him a clear indication as to what the fuck exactly he felt.

He shook his head and looked up at the couple, then over at Chloe. She still looked miserable, watching their alter egos together and obviously perfectly happy, having everything one could dream of.

Slumped in her chair, her shoulders hunched in, chin braced on her knees. She'd pulled them up to her chest as close as they would go. She wasn't even blinking as she stared at the couple.

Lex felt horrible. It made him sick to have to see Chloe suffer like that and all because he had run his mouth and commented on the scenes those damn powers chose to show them. He hadn't felt guilty like that in a long time and it definitely was an uncomfortable feeling.

Instead of pushing it away, however, Lex let it run its course. It was his fault after all, so he should feel guilty. And he should do something about it. He had no idea what, but he definitely should do something about it.

Chloe looked like she was close to tears again and Lex felt like someone had dropped a humongous stone in his stomach. Without thinking about it, he got up from the floor and walked over to Chloe, until he was right beside her.

He stooped down until he could put his arms around her shoulders and give her what was possibly the most awkward hug in human history. “I'm sorry, Chloe. I'm so sorry.” He placed a light kiss on the top of her head and gave her shoulders another squeeze.

If Chloe had been confused at what she was seeing in the bed, she was downright dumbfounded by Lex’s actions. What was he apologizing for and how was she supposed to react? She looked at his face and told him, without even knowing what he was talking about, “It’s ok, Lex.” Whatever he thought he had done, she could forgive. But, he needed to let her go…and soon. The close proximity was having an effect on her.

Lex chuckled without humor and pulled back, then crouched down in front of her, putting his hands on her feet for balance. “I have a feeling I'm responsible for getting us stuck in this damn scene. Remember how I said earlier that the powers in that place seem to have a main focus on the physical?” When Chloe just nodded he continued on. “Well I guess they saw it as a challenge and that's why we ended up here.” He unconsciously ran his thumbs up and down her ankles while he spoke, still trying to figure out why he was feeling so extremely bad for all this that he went so far as apologizing not only once, but several times. “I've tried to ask them before to switch this scene, but obviously, they won't listen.”

Chloe had to concentrate very hard on his words. All she really wanted to do was close her eyes and focus on Lex’s touch. But, that was a bad idea. If he kept at it, though, she wasn’t sure that she’d be strong enough to pull away. She had to make her move now. In what she hoped was a casual manner, she put her legs back on the floor. “They rarely do, Lex.”

She wasn’t sure where he was going with this. In the space of two minutes his demeanor had totally changed and she couldn’t fathom why. Lex had seen their future selves outside and it seemed to have no effect on him so what was different right now?

Looking down at him, she could still see that he was deep in thought. She didn’t want to pull him out of it so she just looked at the couple on the bed. Their conversation had tapered off and Chloe could see that the other Lex’s breathing had evened out. Her double was propped up on one arm and was looking down at her husband.

This was good, maybe they’d be freed from this place after their alter egos fell asleep.

When he felt Chloe move her legs away, Lex's head snapped up and he let his arms fall to his sides. Right, touching her sure wasn't gonna help her situation right now. 'My bad.' He slowly stood up and turned around to watch the couple on the bed.

Seeing himself asleep with somebody else close by was weird. Lex had never made it a habit to share his bed for anything other than sex. It had taken him weeks to get used to Helen's presence in his bed and he'd never been able to really fall into something like real sleep. Whenever she turned over or moved, he'd jerked awake, instinct kicking in. He'd definitely never fallen asleep before her in any case.

”This is so odd,” he muttered, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Chloe thought that that was the understatement of the century. She realized, however, that he wasn’t talking about their whole time there when she looked up and saw where his gaze was fixed.

Her brow furrowed. Of all of the things they had seen, he chose to verbalize that the two of them falling asleep in the same bed was ‘odd.’ ‘Of course it is for him, god forbid he get physically close to someone or show them that he actually has human needs. Like sleep.’

Chloe walked over to Lex and looked down at them. Her double was still moving around a little, obviously trying to find a comfortable position. Chloe smiled when she noticed that her double was having a hard time getting some of the blankets out of Lex’s grip. “Looks like someone’s a blanket hog.” Even in this situation, she found it amusing.

Lex's gaze shifted to Chloe, a small smirk on his face. “I never made a habit of sharing my bed, or my blankets for that matter.” He looked back at the couple, still amazed that with all the shifting and turning Chloe was doing, he still hadn't woken back up.

Things were definitely not like they normally were when it came to Chloe. “It's hard to believe that this is me. It's like watching a completely different version of me. Which makes it hard to believe that this could be real. It's too...” He didn't want to say 'sickeningly sweet' but it was the only description he could think of.

Chloe nodded, “I know what you mean. When she said there was a problem with our…,” she stopped and instead said, “with Jacob, I was almost relieved. I mean, we seem too perfect. I was hoping that she had caught him dressing up the farm animals or something. ” She was interrupted by her double flopping back down on the bed.

“I give up,” she groused. She turned away from Lex. After a moment, Lex moved again, wrapping his arms around her and spooning against her. “Oh, now you want to cooperate,” she muttered.

Lex's brows scrunched together as he watched the display. “Think there's a password to get us out of here?”

Watching this was getting very uncomfortable. It felt like intruding on something very private. Yes, technically they were just watching themselves but still, it was just too odd.

Lex still wasn't sure what exactly he felt and he was not about to jump into anything if he wasn't a hundred percent sure. He needed some sign. Some absolutely, positively, unavoidably clear, specific sign.

Chloe shook her head, “I doubt it. It will let us out of here when it’s damn good and ready.” She could sense that Lex was finally getting disturbed by what they were seeing. Whether it was for her sake or for his own reasons, she wasn’t sure of.

Her double started to settle down. Every now and again, the other Lex would murmur something unintelligible and the Chloe in the bed would answer with a “yes, dear” or something of the like. They both looked so peaceful. Before Lex drifted off to sleep, Chloe could pick out one phrase that he said. “Love you,” was as clear as day.

Looking everywhere but at her Lex, she tried to think of something to get them out of the room. Both of them seemed to be transfixed by what they were watching and were unable to move. She was about to say something when she heard a high pitched scream. She whipped around and saw the bedroom door fly open. Jacob came tearing through the room and jumped on the bed between his parents.

Lex had the presence of mind to get a hold of the door before it could slam shut again, but immediately turned his attention back to the bed, where both their doubles were now wide awake, his double looking like he'd just suffered from a mild stroke.

Lex exchanged a glance with Chloe, just as their doubles did the same.

”Jacob, what's wrong? What happened?” His double was running a hand through the fire red hair of the boy, trying to calm him down.

”Monster,” the boy said, while still staring at the open door as if it were about to come crashing into the bedroom. “It was in my closet.” He looked at both of his parents, obviously waiting for one of them to go and take care of the problem.

Jacob started to fidget around and Chloe watched her double wince in pain as her child’s elbow hit the exact spot where it felt as if someone was poking one of your ovaries when they hit it just right. She moved her body and said, “Jacob, are you sure there’s a monster in there?” The boy nodded vigorously. “Are you sure it wasn’t just a dream?” The boy shook his head back and forth, looking as if he would break his neck with the speed he was using.

Lex shook his head, hand still on the door as he waited for the lecture to happen. Surely he wouldn't encourage his child to be scared of something as stupid and absolutely ....

He watched his alter ego get up from the bed and hoist the boy up on his hip.

”Alright then, let's go see about that monster, shall we?”

'Uhm'. Lex's brain was still trying to catch up with what was happening while his older self walked past him through the door. Without giving it any thought, Lex followed the two out. This should be...interesting to say the least.

Surprised that Lex seemed interested in this, Chloe followed after him. She thought that going through the door make take them somewhere else, but it only led them down the hall of the house. Her double was behind Lex and she. The fivesome entered the room.

The other Lex asked Jacob where the monster was. When Jacob pointed to the closet, Lex put him down. Immediately, Jacob ran over to his mother. Chloe could see that Jacob was very nervous when his father opened the door and walked into the closet.

“It’s ok. Daddy’ll be ok,” the other Chloe said as she stroked her child’s hair. Jacob didn’t look all that comforted. His eyes were still rooted on the closet door.

Lex stepped closer towards his double, watching him as he slowly opened the closet door and switched on the light inside. Something was poking out through the clothes hanging askew on their hangers.

Lex stepped closer and got a real good look when his double pushed the clothes aside with a flourish.

”Hah!” His older version smirked triumphantly, while both women and the boy had jumped about a foot in the air at his outburst.

Behind the clothes stood a swinging blow-up clown. When his double punched the thing, it moved back and forth, setting off the bell that obviously functioned as a weight in the bottom of the figure.

”There, see. Not a monster, just your punching bag. Come here, you can see for yourself.”

His double turned around and reached a hand out for his son. The boy looked hesitantly back and forth between his father and the closet, but finally dared to approach.

A small smile came across Chloe’s face as she watched Lex’s double hunker down next to his son and whisper something to him. The boy’s body relaxed and he giggled. The older Lex said something else that she couldn’t pick up on and Jacob started to hit the toy. As expected, it bounced back and the boy hit it again.

Looking over at her double, Chloe saw that she was smiling at her family. When Jacob started running back and then punching the doll, her double’s brow furrowed. On the next pass, her double gently laid a hand on her son’s shoulder. “I think that’s enough for tonight. You keep that up and you’ll never be able to fall back asleep.”

Chloe could see that the boy was about to protest but her other self fixed him with a look. She felt sorry for the kid. With both Lex and she as parents, she wondered if he ever got away with anything. Still, the boy looked over at his father, to see if he would get any help from him. Seeing the very same look on his dad’s face, Jacob said, “Ok, mommy. But you have to hit the clown first.”

The woman, clearly understanding that this was a deal breaker, threw her hands up and then walked over to the clown. She gave it a few good pops to the delight of her son. The older Lex also looked highly amused at her display. “There, now climb aboard.” She pointed over to the small bed that was designed like a spaceship and the boy quickly scrambled in.

Lex shook his head at the bed. Apparently the boy had been influenced by him at least a little. He watched their doubles putting the kid to bed and tucking him into the covers.

Chloe's double bent down to press a kiss to Jacob's forehead, while his alter ego simply ruffled his hair and got a cheeky grin in return.

He motioned for Chloe to precede him out the door before their doubles could get there first and close it in their face. “That was interesting,” he murmured to her as they stepped out into the hallway.

Lex took a glance around the hallway, for the first time noticing details like the pictures on the walls or the obviously female touch of a bright, friendly carpet under their feet. Those hadn't been there the last time he'd seen the inside of the ranch.

”Wonder what else has changed with this place,” he muttered to himself before he turned to Chloe. “So, what now?” he asked her louder.

Chloe could tell that Lex wanted to wander around the house and see what was different from when he had spent time here as a young boy. However, Chloe wanted to get the hell out of here as soon as possible. The question that she had to answer was whether she could really be as selfish as she wanted to be. Or, if she’d be able to stow her own emotional baggage and let Lex relive some of the few pleasant memories he had.

A) Try to leave the house
B) Wander around the house

[sydsvaughn]

Oh let's wander a bit--so I choose "B".

As long as we get Lex beginning to come around, I can handle Chloe's pain. Although I sincerely hope that sooner or later, they'll get a little happiness!

Seriously though, the clown in the closet--hell, that's a monster to me. *shudders. I HATE clowns*

Loved the 'family' scenes and the Chlex reaction-- more soon please!!

SaraC

[lexchloe]

:worship2: Thankyou so much for updating. This is such a great story. even though I hate that chloe is hurting, I love that at least what they are seeing is making Lex really examine his feelings for Chloe.

I'm gonna go with B. Can't wait for more :chlexsign3:

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: B!!!! Wander wander wander!!!! :blinkkiss: I loved there kid, hes jusr adorable.

[autumngold]

I'm going to have to pick B also!! Maybe it will help Lex open up to Chloe more?!! :chlexsign4:

[Queen Of Tact]

yeah nice update... I say go with B... Stay in the house... lex seems to be coming around so maybe it will give him more of a kick to understand what it is that he really feels for chloe.....

I just love this fic......


CC

[hfce]

I love Chlex family time. They are so cute as parents. Even though it will hurt Chloe I am choosing B. I want Lex to see more and maybe he will come around.


Hope :)

[nokchan]

I pick B ´because I think it's very interesting to see what else changed. :biggrin:

Blue? Sabby? Love you both!!! :wub:

[kezz]

Seriously though, the clown in the closet--hell, that's a monster to me. *shudders. I HATE clowns*

AHA....finally someone else who understands my deep seated phobia of those awful things! :yay: Clowns are not in the least bit funny or endearing...they're absolutely fucking terrifying! I mean can anybody really tell what's under all those stupid clothes and greasepaint. No you can't and quite frankly I never want to get close enough to another clown to find out, it would just be a therapy bill waiting to happen. Parents who take their small children to the circus to see clowns are sadistic, do you have any idea how scary a clown looks to a three-year-old?

Sorry, I'm not insane, really the only things I'm truly afraid of are clowns and spiders (nothing needs that many legs!) so I'm truly not in any danger of a close encounter with a straight jacket.

Anyway, enough of my phobic rantings, I pick B. Maybe spending more time there will give that stupid boy a smack upside the head.

You know, I really think it's about time Lex got a look at what his life could be like without Chloe in it, now and in the future. Maybe if she was taken away from him he would start to appreciate what he has in her.

Kezz........x.x.x.

[Blackberry]

wander wander!! :) B

[tiger04]

I say B, even though it upsets her it would make lex happy

[sylvia]

B. Lex is beginning to see the light, he just needs a few... nudges in the right direction. ;)

[S.Ann Smith]

B!

[buffiy18]

Yeah! It looks like Lex is getting a clue. How much of a very clear sing does he need then himself telling Chloe he loved her very clearly while he was a sleep. I think Lex is finally coming around. I think Chloe should let Lex wander around, at least a for a bit until they can figure out what to do next.

[buddyfozzy]

B! Lex needs a little nudge in the right direction with his feelings :yay:

[vardaquareien]

definately B!!! This whole situation is really working at bringing Lex around (so far...) so I wanna stay there and see what other ways it can affect him. I love the way you have Lex slowly coming to realise his feelings. It's very Lex-like. He can't just accept, he has to question and analyse. He needs logic and proof to influence him so hopefully you're gonna give him more...pwetty pwease? *flutters eyelashes*

[chril1]

b, they might get some ideas, you know wedding photos the like

clowns shudder, in my closet at night...i want mummy.


love lea
xxx

[Béatrice]

B- Wander in the house :yay2:

Please come back!!! :worship2:

[marrycherry]

B- Wander in the house

[scifichick774]

*hangs head in shame* I'm sorry for missing so many updates. Really, really sorry. I'm so glad that Lex is finally starting to *feel* something or at least recognize that he is - even if it's just feeling bad for making Chloe feel bad, it's a start.

And B. Lex definitely needs more reminders that life with Chloe wouldn't end up like it did with his other so-called relationships.

[je_m'adore]

AWHAWHAWHAW!!!! :crygreen:

i finally caught up with this sacred story that i worship. :worship2:

man, but i'm gonna have to say b also, because i think that will make lex take action and finally admit his feelings.

but im waiting patiently for the smut i know you can provide also.... :biggrin:

[kezz]

Hey, where did you two go? I hope you are aware that you have now kept all of your faithful fans of this fic waiting for five whole days now. Five long, torturous days.

Please, please, please update soon. :worship2:

Kezz...x.x.x

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: There you go you fiends. Next chapter. Hope you enjoy it, because Lex and Chloe well....you'll see.

A/N: Blue: Well, another unanimous decision. More coupley goodness follows...along with Chlex pain. Enjoy!
Taking a deep breath and hoping she didn’t berate herself later for the stupid decision she was about to make, Chloe said, “Well, since whoever is running the show doesn’t seem to keen on us leaving, I don’t think it would hurt to poke around the place.” She peered down the hall in the direction that Lex had been looking and could see numerous pictures hung haphazardly on the wall. No doubt her work.

Lex's eyebrows rose high on his forehead as he looked intently at Chloe. “Are you sure?” His interest was peaked but he knew that Chloe wasn't dealing too well with all this, her composure already hanging by a thin thread. “We could at least try to get out of the house if you want to.” He was really more concerned with Chloe than his own curiosity, even though it amazed him to see how different this place would be once he decided to get it back. And Lex had already decided to buy the property as soon as they were back out of this damn funhouse. Chloe or no Chloe, he should have reacquired this land years ago. It was one of the few places that had provided him with happy childhood memories.

She was happy that she didn’t even have to lie when she said, “I’m sure, Lex.” She was. It wasn’t fair to deny him something just because she was having issues. What’s more, she thought that Lex would do the same for her. Besides, after all of the crap he had been through today if Lex could get some happiness or satisfaction from this, who was she to deny him? Also, she hoped that some of the good memories of his mother would come back. He was holding on tight to the horrible one that she had seen earlier and Chloe prayed that he’d be able to remember a pleasant one that would counterbalance it.

Lex nodded mutely. He wasn't going to ask her again. Instead, he turned around and started down the hallway in the opposite direction of where they'd come from.

He knew they were up on the first floor, where the bedrooms were located and if he remembered correctly, his mother had had somewhat of an 'entertainment room' up here.

She'd loved arts and had painted herself, mostly aquarelles and sketches. She'd dabbled into everything that had to do with light, pleasant colors and soft textures. He'd seen her trying to stitch once and it had been interesting to watch her fighting with needle and yarn. Lillian had given up on that past time a few hours and five bandaids after she'd started. Lex smirked as he remembered her tightly scrunched, annoyed face.

He came to a halt in front of the last door at the end of the hallway on the left. This had been it.

Lex tried the handle and found that the door easily opened under his hand, not even squeaking in the hinges like it used to. He flicked the light switch and the room was instantly bright, streamers on the ceiling flooding light into every last corner.

The room itself had changed quite a bit. It held more boards than it had back then. The old easel and art supplies were still there, but it seemed that over the years a lot more books had found their way into the room, covering 3 of the four walls, stacked in high bookcases.

Interesting was that there seemed to be no particular order to how the books were stacked. This was definitely not his doing.

”This was my mother's old entertainment room,” he explained to Chloe without turning around. “She spent most of her time in here when she wasn't outside riding.” He pointed to the easel. “That was hers. She painted a lot.”

“She wasn't very good at it, but it wasn't about being good, it was about fun.” He smiled as he started walking along the bookcases. “The books are new though, she didn't read that much.” He looked up at Chloe, watching her walk along the bookcases and taking the room in. “I think in some way, this room was her hideout. Whenever she was in here, she couldn't be bothered by anyone. No phone calls, no business, no disturbance of any kind. Sometimes she'd let me watch, when she painted, but I'd get bored very fast and leave her alone.” Lex shook his head as he remembered another tidbit. “She also had a tendency to get more color on everything else than the canvas. Including me when I stood too close.”

Chloe chuckled at the image of Lex’s face getting accidentally painted on by his mother. She could also see his reaction in her mind’s eye and wondered if it was always an ‘accident’ on Lillian’s part. She also understood the need for a safe haven of one’s own. Especially if you were married to Lionel. It made a great deal of sense.

As she ran her fingers over the spines of the books, her suspicions were confirmed. Her alter ego had taken this room for herself. She wondered if Lex had freely given it to her of if the other Chloe had put her foot down and taken it. She imagined that Lex would want it kept as it previously was. Then again, the other Lex differed from her own in a great many ways.

She saw that there was a painting on the easel, it was turned away from them, and her curiosity got the better of her. Chloe smiled at the erratic patterns that were on the canvas. Obviously, Lillian’s grandchild was picking up where she had left off. ‘He’s not half bad, actually,’ Chloe thought. Then wondered if the praise had to do with the fact that Jacob, even though he wasn’t real, was hers. Nepotism was a powerful thing and she was falling into it already.

Behind the easel were three chairs. One a child sized chair that had paint all over it. The two other chairs were on either side of Jacob’s and it wasn’t hard to guess who’s was who’s. The one on the left was a plush chair that was only a little less paint spattered. The one on the right was a brown leather behemoth chair that only had a few splotches of paint. Chloe shook her head at the thought of Lex bringing in a chair worth a few thousands dollars and then plunking it down next to the hurricane that was their child.

Lex watched Chloe silently as she took in the room. The painting and the chairs had gotten his attention as well. It seemed that this room was now less a sanctuary than a family room. However, so far, the comfortable looking leather chair was the only trace of him inside it.

He went back to surveying the bookcases and reading a few of the titles, letting his finger run over the spines as he went.

Lex couldn't deny the indignant 'squwak' that burst out of his throat as he found an old copy of Maquiavelli's 'El Principe' stuffed between 'Grimm's Fairytales' and ... he looked closer to make sure he'd read correctly... Angelique and the King.

”I don't believe this,” he muttered as he pulled out the book and started looking around for a better place to stow it.

The whole room looked like some kind of orderly mess. Lex ended up putting the book back on the same shelf, but at least next to a couple of history books.

“Remind me to never leave you in charge of sorting books,” he commented absentmindedly as he kept looking around the shelf to check if any other injustice had been done to his priceless books.

Chloe looked sharply up at Lex, but he was too engrossed with ‘fixing’ the bookcase to notice. She shook off her emotions, a mix of indignation and humor. Obviously this Lex was fine with the way that the room looked. Not only that, but he had to be the one to bring the priceless treasures into the room in the first place.

She peered out the huge window that was behind the chairs. The grounds of this place were immaculate and went on for miles. She wondered what it would be like to actually live her. To be the other Chloe.

A strange lightheaded feeling came over Chloe and she swayed slightly, her fingers holding onto the back of the leather chair for support. “Lex,” she said, but she heard that it came out as a soft croak. She blinked quickly, her vision was starting to go black and fear gripped her. The last thing she saw before her world went black was the hand gripping the chair.

If she had been able to scream, she would have. Chloe could see through her hand.

Obviously, Chloe was having a bad influence on him if he let her stuff his beloved possessions into a bookcase amidst cheesy romance novels and children's books. If that was the outcome of a relationship with her, he wasn't so sure he would really want her in his life as a permanent fixture.

Lex was still absorbed in his work on the bookcase when he heard Chloe whisper his name from behind him, “What is it?” he asked as he looked over his shoulder. Chloe wasn't there.

He placed the book that he'd held back on the shelf and turned around fully, but Chloe was nowhere in sight.

”Chloe?” His voice was already rising as his brows furrowed in concern. “Chloe, where are you?” He stepped towards the chairs where he'd last seen her. “This isn't funny Chloe, come on, where are you?”

'No, no no no, not again!' His mind was starting to run on overdrive as he searched through the entire room, then burst out into the hallway, looking down both sides, hoping to see her somewhere, moving on to the next room or something. “Chloe? Come on, drop it, where are you,” he hated the nervousness in his tone, but deep down he already knew that Chloe wasn't just messing with him.

The powers that be had separated them. Again. 'Damn.' He slunk back into the room and practically fell into the old leather chair, closing his eyes in surrender as he let his head fall back.

”Why do you do this to me,” he asked no one in particular.

'Not so sure if you really want her in your life as a permanent fixture.' His earlier thought burned through his mind once more, the implication now much clearer than it had been when he'd jokingly thought it. 'I goaded them and now she's gone.'

“FUCK,” he cursed loudly, banging his fist on the armrest of the chair. “I didn't mean it!” He looked up at the ceiling. “I didn't mean it, you hear me?” he glared at nothing as he got up from the chair and started pacing around the room once more. “Bring her back right now or I swear I'll...”

But the threat died in his throat, because logically, there was nothing he could do. He wasn't in control here and they'd shown him once more that every wrong step he made could have dire effects. He could only hope that they weren't letting their ire with him out on her. “At least, don't hurt her, please,” he conceded, hating the tone of defeat in his voice.

He ran a hand over the back of his head as he made his way out the door. Maybe they'd just put her somewhere else in the house, they hadn't separated them for long the last time. He'd find her, sooner rather than later.

His mind made up, Lex started on his quest down the hallway, opening every single door and looking into every room. He'd find her, she couldn't be far, he'd find her.

When Chloe’s vision returned, she immediately looked down at her hand. Or, more aptly, she tried to look down at her hand. She found that her body would not listen to the signals that her brain was giving it. Panic which she had been holding at bay, now came to the forefront of her brain.

As she was trying to think of a plan, she felt her body move. It was disturbing, to not be in control of her body. If it even was her body. Only god knew what she had gotten herself into.

She felt her mouth open and was a little relieved when it was her voice that came out of it. “Jacob,” she called, “it’s time to go and visit Swifty and Thunder.” When she realized that she was her alter ego, she knew that she had done this to herself.

“Really,” she muttered to herself, “who other than my son would name a foal Thunder.” She sat down on the bed and laced up her boots as Jacob came charging into the room.

Jacob was crawling all over her and Chloe’s addled brain couldn’t keep up with what he was saying. She was focused on the fact that she could smell the clean scent of his shampoo and feel his small hand tugging on hers to get her up and going quicker.

“Ok, ok,” she said, as she allowed her child to drag her out of the room. “But remember to be quiet when we’re in the barn.” She fixed Jacob with a look. “I know it’s hard but we don’t want to scare,” she paused, clearly trying not to make a face, “Thunder.”

As they walked through the house Chloe noticed that daylight was streaming through the windows. Apparently, she had been out for awhile. Another thought struck her then.

She had been so weirded out by what was going on that she hadn’t even wondered where Lex was. Even though she knew it was futile, she tried to call his name. She wished that she could at least growl in frustration, but it was no use. Chloe was no longer in control of her body, she was just along for the ride.

Lex had been up the rest of the night, searching every nook and cranny of the house for Chloe. He'd scarcely paid attention to what had interested him before, after Chloe had disappeared. Lex hadn't found her anywhere.

He'd even gone back into the master bedroom at some point, finding his alter ego and the other Chloe sleeping peacefully.

When the house had come to life shortly after sunrise with Jacob bounding up and down the hallways, Lex had already been at the end of his nerves.

He'd followed the boy to find the older Chloe getting dressed and ready to go to the stables. Watching the double walking around, talking to her son and going about her day as if nothing was amiss irritated Lex to no end but he followed her anyway, hoping to find his Chloe if he kept tailing the other one long enough.

Tired, stressed and with a headache that could kill a horse, he trudged after the duo into the stables.

Chloe was pleased to see that Jacob actually heeded her. Once they were inside the stables, his racket died down to a dull roar that Chloe assumed was as quiet as the boy ever got. He was even whispering.

Jacob looked up at her when they got into the stable and Chloe felt herself nod. “But, remember what Chuck said,” she titled her chin in the direction of one of the farm hands, and Jacob finished the sentence for her.

“I have to be quiet and gentle and not act like a crazy kid,” he said, with all seriousness and Chloe could feel herself trying not to smile.

“Exactly, have fun.” When Jacob started walking, more like tip toeing actually, over to where Swifty and her foal were, Chloe turned around and plunked herself down on a bale of hay. If it was strange to go along with the other Chloe’s movements, it was unbelievable that she could actually feel what the woman was feeling, too.

There was a sense of pure joy at watching her child pet the new arrival. He was being very careful with it and obeying all of Chuck’s instructions. He looked nervous about doing something wrong and Chloe knew that it was a rare occasion. Her son was usually so sure about his actions. Even when they were wrong. A wave of love hit her. It was strong and different from what she felt for Lex. For the first time, Chloe felt bad that she had done this. She had no right to wish herself into this woman.

The other woman got lost in her thoughts and Chloe could only watch as her imaginary son played with the new addition to the Luthor farm.
Lex watched Jacob pet the foal and mare for a while before his gaze drifted back to Chloe's double. She'd made herself comfortable on a haybale and was watching her kid with obvious love and adoration, but also a sharp eye to make sure he didn't do anything stupid.

She was leaning back on her elbows, relaxing slightly after a while, but never taking her eyes of the boy. The double still looked so much like his Chloe that he couldn't help stepping closer.

Her hair was longer and she had a few lines lining her eyes and around her mouth, but it was the same face, the same happy expression he'd seen on the real Chloe's face when she'd received his gift for graduation after his father had finally been out of the way for good.

'Beautiful'

He stepped even closer, until he crouched down in front of her, trying to look into her eyes.

”Where are you, Chloe?”

She was completely ignoring him, still looking at Jacob over his shoulder, shifting slightly forward to crane her neck as the boy moved around the horses.

“Where did they take you?” He knew logically that neither this Chloe nor the real one could hear him, but it didn't matter.

”It's all my fault that you're where ever you are now. I fucked up. Again,” A wry smirk twitched on his lips as he kept staring at Chloe's face.

“But I'll find you, I promise.” He just had no idea how.

He'd already searched the entire house and she obviously wasn't in the stables either or she'd have come to him already.

The sinking feeling in his stomach got worse as the possibility of not finding her seemed to become ever greater. He didn't want to go through all this alone.

Lex had gotten used to Chloe's presence. As he thought about it, he realized that this wasn't only the case inside this funhouse.

They'd worked closely together on his father's case. Even more so after his attempt on Chloe's life just before the first hearing.

She'd never been more than a phone call away and Lex had learned to trust in her abilities and in most cases, her intuition.

'Trust, huh?' He remembered their discussion in the Land of Oz and it seemed ridiculous now. For all his arguments and denials, Lex did trust Chloe. If not with everything, then at least with a few very important things.

Of course he was too stubborn to admit that out loud. Lord knew where it would get him.

He heard the boy squeal and giggle behind him and turned around. The foal was licking Jacob's face and had sent him sprawling on the floor, to the boys obvious delight.

Looking back up at Chloe, he saw that she'd already sat up, watching the scene with a keen eye, ready to jump into action in a split second if it should be necessary.

If this was real in any dimension, she'd be a great mother one day.

“I hope you’re not stuck in a bad place because of me. I didn't mean it, you know.”

Hearing heavy footsteps shuffling the hay behind him, Lex turned around to see who was coming. It was his alter ego, dressed in jeans and heavy work boots, carrying two cups of coffee as he came towards them. Or rather, towards his wife. Lex hastily got up and stepped aside to get out of the way.

“Morning,” His double bent over to place a kiss on top of Chloe's head, handing her one of the cups.

She scooted over to make room on the bale of hay, leaning against his double as soon as he'd sat down beside her.

“Mhmm, coffee, marry me,” she mumbled as she stuck her nose into the large cup.

“Again?” His double's eyebrow rose as he shot Chloe's double a fond smile over his own cup. “With pleasure.” He wrapped his arm loosely around her waist and pressed another kiss to her temple as Chloe got absorbed in her morning coffee.

'Some things apparently never change,' Lex thought as he watched Chloe's liaison with the morning coffee.

Chloe focused on the coffee. The coffee was safe. The way that Lex touched her and felt was not safe. It was bad and dangerous so she would just ignore it. At least her double was still looking at Jacob, that was one thing going her way. For now.

She chuckled when the foal knocked Jacob down almost immediately after he righted himself again. Chloe continued to smile when the boy very gently moved out from under the foal…only to be batted down again. Jacob got up again, but didn’t move away. A determined look on his face. “That double dose of stubbornness is going to be a problem very soon.”

When Chloe looked at Lex, she could see the amusement all over his face. Not just in the quirk of his mouth or a look in his eyes. His whole face. Chloe was amazed by it. This Lex didn’t hide from her. “Soon? I’d say it is already.” He paused and then took a sip of his coffee as he looked over at his son. “I missed you this morning.”

Chloe leaned further into his body and said, “I was on monster patrol. Apparently there was one under his bed this morning. Someone slept through that. When I got back, you were in the shower.” This was another strange development. A few times when Chloe had visited the Manor in the dead of night, mostly freaked out about Lionel, she had caught Lex asleep in his chair. However, he had snapped awake when he had sensed someone in the room. The fact that this other Lex had missed their child, who had no doubt been making a racket, coming into their room and then the ensuing monster hunt was almost impossible to believe.

Lex was amazed at the change in his person, yet again. His older version only raised a mildly curious eyebrow at having missed a major ruckus while Lex couldn't fathom how he possibly could have not stood up straight in bed at the first stirring of movement.

Watching the pair of them was still saccharine enough for a toothache. They seemed to be so perfect together that nothing dared disturb their happiness. Logically, life couldn't be that flawless. And especially not life for a Luthor. It just wasn't ...real.

Also mildly irksome was the fact that Lex could read every single emotion clearly on his double's face. How the hell was he going to be a good politician if his pokerface had up and deserted him?

True he couldn't remember ever having had a reason for so much happiness that would have made him grin like that, but still. It was irksome.

Listening to Chloe chattering on and filling his double in on everything he'd missed made Lex aware of something else, though. He missed his Chloe.

He usually didn't have a problem with being alone, but it bothered him now. It felt wrong to see this and not be able to share it with Chloe, even if just to get her to make a snarky comment about the whole 'sweetness' of the scene.

He even missed her stubborn attitude towards the whole experience and her never ending insistence on getting him to loosen up and talk to her about things he rather wouldn't mention at all.

“Where are you?” he sighed and leaned against the door of an empty stable, staring at the scene in front of him, or rather at Chloe's double.

Chloe tried not to pay attention to what they were saying. And, eventually, she could tune it out. Mostly because they weren’t talking about anything interesting. They were discussing what they had heard about their son’s school and if they should redo part of the house.

Every now and again, she would try and see if she could get control of her body. But, it was futile. They, whoever they were, didn’t want her in charge right about now. When her double looked back up at Lex, after he suggested doing a room fully in hot pink, Chloe wondered if her Lex was stuck in the other Lex. She could just imagine the type of fit he would be throwing.

Now that she wasn’t as shocked at being in her body with no control, Chloe tried to puzzle out what the point of this little exercise was. She really didn’t get what she was supposed to learn by living the life that her double did.

Had she been able to, she would have been chewing on her lower lip. It was a nervous habit that she was trying to break herself of but not having much luck with. Lex didn’t love her and she needed to accept that. However, this Lex obviously loved his Chloe. So……maybe it was to show her that Lex did care about her, just not in this particular way?

She just wished that whatever powers were floating around would give her a clue as to what she was supposed to be paying attention to. That way, they’d finally be able to get out of here. Though she didn’t see Lex now, she was fairly certain that he was around somewhere. They did get separated every now and again but they were usually thrown back together.

Lex gave up. He'd been listening to the conversation between the couple for the last twenty minutes now and it had given him nothing worthwhile. 'Yeah I get it. They love each other, their life is perfect and I'm supposed to fall at Chloe's knees and beg for forgiveness because she's the best thing that could ever happen to me.' The dangerous thing was that the thought of doing that was less and less out there, the longer he was sitting alone against that damn wall, left to his own thoughts.

He wouldn't put it past him to actually go as far as acting like that if they ever gave him back his Chloe.

“Come on, where are you?” Lex got up from his place and started pacing the length of the barn, ignoring the softly talking couple and the antics of Jacob with the horses.

Lex stopped in front of Chloe's double and looked her straight in the face.

“I will find you,” he vowed, before turning around and striding out of the barn, intent on searching the grounds for his Chloe.

If Chloe had had a physical embodiment, she would have been thrumming her fingers on the nearest surface. She couldn’t believe how domestic she and Lex were. They were actually talking about redecoration ideas. Her Lex wouldn’t have been caught dead having this conversation.

She was going through story ideas that she could write about when she got home, namely abandoned funhouses, when her attention was brought back to the couple by the feel of Lex’s hand on the small of her back. His fingers were running in a circle under her shirt and he said, “I think that sounds like a very good idea.”

‘Uh oh,’ Chloe thought. She had no idea what in the hell Lex was talking about, but she was familiar with that look on his face. Sure, it had never truly been directed at her, but she recognized it. Her heart sank even more when her double started to lean closer to him and then whispered in his ear, “You agree so easily. I’m disappointed, I thought that I was going to have to convince you that I was right.”

Chloe leaned over a little and put her coffee cup down on the ground. She looked over at Jacob and saw that he was still playing with the foal, Chuck watching him closely. She moved a little closer to Lex and she felt Lex’s hand move to settle at her hip. He pulled her flush against him and said, “I changed my mind, it’s a horrible idea.”

As they both leaned in closer to one another, Chloe used all of her mental strength to get control over her body. She didn’t want this. It was bad enough that she had to watch it, but to actually feel what was going on would be a million times worse. However, that was what happened.

Her limbs did not listen to her, instead, her arms wrapped around Lex a moment before she felt his lips on hers. At first Chloe was relieved that the kiss was so gentle. That didn’t last long, however. Soon she felt Lex’s tongue slide into her mouth and she felt what the action did to her body. He moaned her name when she responded in kind.

For some reason, Chloe felt violated. It wasn’t enough that these people had to show her this? Now she had to live through having the feelings, fully knowing that they would never be returned. Plus, there was the sheer intimacy of the moment. It wasn’t a frenzied kiss that communicated lust and passion. It was slow and all consuming. ‘Please, please, please, no more.’

Lex had started to stalk down the driveway when he realized what a stupid idea it was to go further away from where he'd lost his Chloe. So he'd turned around to go back to the barn, trying to think of a better option.

He'd entered it just at the moment to find his alter ego leaning closer to his wife and pulling her against him. The look the other Chloe had on her face made him stop short and it made him wonder.

'What would it be like to really feel that way?'

All of a sudden, his body felt weird and Lex started to get lightheaded. Before he could hold on to something, he felt himself slipping into blackness. 'Shit'.

Chloe opened her eyes and then realized something. She moved her arms around, confirming her thought. She was out of her body. However, she hadn’t made it far. She was in the barn watching her double and Lex’s kiss. She looked over at Jacob, who was too engrossed with the two horses to notice that his parents were making out. Chloe was close enough to hear the moans of their names and flushed at the way they sounded.

When Lex tried to open his eyes again, they steadfastly refused to obey his command. The next thing he realized was that his arms were full of a warm body and his mouth and tongue busy with someone else’s. 'Oh Fuck,'. A million thoughts ran through his mind before all thought shut down when a soft tongue ran over his palate.

He knew where he was now and damn it felt good. But this wasn't really right, it wasn't him supposed to be kissing this Chloe.

Lex again tried to break away, but his body still wasn't responding to his brain. His arms were still wound tight around Chloe's body and pulling her closer and one of them was slowly making its way down her back to her ass. 'Damn' Lex gave up trying and went with the flow.

As soon as he let things happen, he also started to feel the emotions of his alter ego, which hit him about ten times worse than the physical aspect had.

It felt like somebody had taken a syringe of endorphins and shot them right up his system. 'Wow' There just wasn't any other way to describe that feeling. He'd thought he'd been on a happy high with Desiree, but fuck it that had been nothing compared to this.

When Chloe's arms wound around his neck and her fingers started scritching at the back of his head, he felt warmth traveling up through his body at the same time that a pleasant chill slithered down his spine. He could get used to this.

His alter ego chose that moment to pull away for a breath, leaning his forehead against Chloe's and grinning mischievously.

“Hrmmm, I'm not quite convinced yet.”

Lex had no idea what his other self was talking about but it had an interesting effect on Chloe's alter ego. It definitely didn't do anything for Lex's concentration though.

He tried to focus while the other Chloe answered his double. So he was inside his alter ego, what if Chloe was inside hers? 'Fuck, I hope not.' It would kill her.

This entire experience was already wreaking havoc on her when she was just a spectator, if she was stuck inside the other Chloe, she got the full frontal now and Lex had no idea how she'd be able to handle it. 'Fuck.' He thought as he felt his body being pulled forward into a kiss once more.

Chloe had thought it was bad watching their other selves in the mirror go at it. But, this was even worse. It was more intense even though they were both fully clothed. She knew it had to do with the fact that strong emotions were involved with the two people sitting on the bale of hay.

She looked over at Jacob and Chuck willing one of them to put a stop to this. God knew that neither the other Lex or Chloe looked about ready to stop. If anything, they seemed to have forgotten that they weren’t alone.

Her other self pulled Lex back down to her and the kiss got turned up a notch. She could see her alter ego was stroking the skin at the nape of Lex’s neck which caused Lex to pull her flush against his body. He tangled his hand in her hair and then started kissing her with more intensity. She heard something akin to a whimper float over to her.

Chloe really was an exceptionally talented kisser. Or maybe that was just the endorphins talking but damn, this was getting distracting. He needed to do something to get them out of this situation. There had to be some way to control this body. After all it was his body. Lex tried again to pull away. He was a little surprised when it actually worked.

A second later, he was sorely disappointed when he realized his body had pulled back for a reason and not by his will.


“Chuck, would you keep an eye on Jacob for a while, we...” His alter ego trailed off as his son turned his attention on his parents. He cleared his throat before finishing the sentence, “Have some paperwork to take care of and it could take a while.”

Lex wanted to kill himself. He only hoped Chloe would be able to forgive him for getting them into this situation because somehow this had to be linked to the comments he'd made earlier which made it all his fault.

It had to be hell on her to be stuck in her doubles body without any control over its actions. 'Fuck, how do I get us out of here?'

All he wanted was to get Chloe back so he could calm her down. She would be ready to kill someone by now, if herself or him, well there was no way to tell. But neither was good. 'I'm sorry Chloe' he thought as his body got up and swung Chloe's double into his arms, one hand cupping and squeezing her bottom as he swooped down for another kiss.

Chloe’s mouth hung open. The two of them were mauling each other as they made their way out of the stable. She turned towards Jacob, but he had barely noticed. Parents being inappropriately sexual couldn’t compete with a new born horse, apparently. Chuck was, well, chuckling at the couple.

Now, here was her problem. Should she follow the pair or wander off to try and find Lex? She knew that he’d pop up sooner or later but thought that he would also stick close to the couple. Of course, if she followed them, she knew what she’d see. And, part of her didn’t know if she could handle that.

A) Go find Lex
B) Follow their alter egos

[Queen Of Tact]

I so love it!!!!!


Well it's really the same no matter what she does cause Lex is in the other lex.... So, I say go with B.... May be we can get the real Chloe and Lex to kiss...

I can't wait for more.....


CC

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: oh come on, as if thats a choice!! B!! Follow them thare alter egoed ones!!!



Gah, so damn good!!!! :yay: :worship2:

[lexchloe]

BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB!!!! As you can see I choose B (hey my need for :smut: is making me rhyme. :biggrin: ) Go Chloe go follow them quickly!!!!!!!!!

[hfce]

B

[sydsvaughn]

I'm so ready for B!!!

Loved this update... things are heating up... the pain is getting worse... and I can't wait to see where you guys go next!!

SaraC

[Blackberry]

lol well, now i'm just as curious as everyone else as to what'd happen if they follow the alter-egos!!

So B :)

BB

[autumngold]

I'm evil to say this, because I know it's going to be so hard for Chloe, but I'm going to vote for B!! I don't want her to far from the real Lex!! Maybe she could switch back into her double also? Great update!! :yay2: :chlexsign4: :yay2:

[kezz]

Yay an update, and it was great! :yay:

It's got to be B, a little voyeristic I know, but it's the only logical choice.

Maybe Chloe can switch back into her double too.

Don't leave it so long next time , please?! :worship2:

Kezz....x.x.x.

[sylvia]

Ah I loved the detail in this chapter. Especially Lex getting all jealous and annoyed by the idyllic happylife his double is leading -- so typical, and funny too. The trapped-in-their-doubles'-body part was a bit freaky, but a good idea, and their reactions were both very telling and realistic.

As for my choice, B!!! Hopefully it will stun the real Chloe and Lex into action...

[scifichick774]

Uh...damn. Don't suppose you could do A first and have it morph into B like you did with Lex's little bit there (looking for Chloe and then giving up to go find the double Chloe)? I know everyone else is rooting for smut - and hey, I can't blame them - but plot wise, I can only think that her exploring the house (as torturous as it might be) could be beneficial for her down the road. Like, she could find out some things she didn't know about Lex or his childhood or whatever that could help her break down the remaining walls he has concerning her.

*ahem* Right. Sorry. I know I'm already outvoted, so I'll just shut up now.

[nokchan]

B and now go for the smut!

No really, I would enjoy reading some smut finally, BUT I have the weird feeling that you're not about to give us that. So...

Of course it would be interesting to see how Chloe explores Lexs past. But I also have the weird feeling that she isn't allowed to do that.

Did I say that I love you both? :blush: :chlexsign3:

[chril1]

i'm with kris


love lea
xxx

[newbatgirl]

After a long absence from this thread I am all caught up. Boy, you two have been busy, haven't you?

I totally dig what you've done so far. My favorite part was Lex and the bookcase. That was so him! It's little details like that that make you (collectively speaking, of course) da man!

I'm going to go with A because Kris makes a really good point about Chloe needing to explore the house.

[ColumbiaBlue]

I'm so loving all of this. Sorry for the lack of feedback and all, my life has been crazy, crazy. So, can we have both? I'm all for B but A is kinda important. Maybe have Chloe watch for a while and *then* go search for Lex after it gets to be too much?

Why do I have the feeling that won't happen...

Anyhoo, no matter what you two choose to do, I know I'll love it cause, I always do.

More soon :)

~Manda

[Béatrice]

BBBBBBBBBBBB!!!

Pleeeeeease more... :biggrin:

[S.Ann Smith]

B! BUt I know you lovely ladies will find some way for us *not* to get our smut fix, unless, Lex and CHloe are in their doubles at the same time .. hmmm...

but yeah b! all the way

[tiger04]

b please
AT

[BlueSabby]

A/N:Sabby: Ok fiends, new update for ya'll hope you enjoy!
A/N: Blue: Here's another update in which you don't get exactly what you want...as usual.


Chloe tried to be logical about it. If you were lost, you were supposed to stay in one spot so whomever was looking for you could find you. Wandering around only increased the chances of missing the person you were separated from. Plus, if she were Lex, she would stick close to the doubles. He would know that she would do the same. That should work, but Lex was nowhere to be seen, right about now.

Unfortunately, Chloe thought that sticking with the pair was the better of the two ideas. Sighing, she followed after the freaks that were, by now, practically tearing each other’s clothes off. She thought that married people never had sex, wasn’t that the stereotype for god’s sake.

As they tripped up the stairs into the house, her double had managed to get her husband’s shirt off. She threw it in a random direction and they continued on their way down the hall. Chloe wondered how they would get up the stairs without killing themselves. Her question was answered when she saw her double jump off the ground and wrap her legs around Lex’s waist. His arms wrapped around her back and he carried her up the stairs. Chloe followed, her feet slowly climbing the stairs.

Lex's mind was tumbling back and forth from coherent to non-existent as his body took him with it into the house and up the stairs towards the bathroom. In between kisses that short circuited his brain and roaming hands that were squeezing him in all the right...wrong places and. Jesus Christ! Chloe's teeth sunk into his neck and there went thought again.

He forced himself to think while every other part of his body was trying to get his mind to shut the hell up and go for it. He needed to...Gasp...as Chloe's nails raked over his scalp, her body surrounding him like poison ivy wrapped around a tree.

'No! I have to' A loud moan coming from his throat before his lips collided with Chloe's once more, the kick of his foot against solid wood and they were staggering into the bedroom. 'Have to get....' sharp little teeth on his neck as they tumbled onto the bed.

“Chloe!” his mind and his double’s in synch for once and he still had to get out, because this was... “So good, god, touch me!” his own voice hoarse as Chloe's fingers went for the waistband of his pants and tugged, plugged, unzipped 'Fuck, No!' “Yesss,” wrapped around his cock and started to pump him sharply.

'Sorry, so sorry, fuck,' “Com'ere,” low growl and his body flipped them over, Chloe beneath him and all he could see, hear, feel, touch, smell was soft skin and raw arousal, and noises that sent all other thought flying out the proverbial window as his head lowered and his mouth crashed onto Chloe's as his fingers sought and found buttons and pushed them open one by one spreading the fabric away from that luscious body. “ 'Mine'”

Chloe writhing underneath him, pushing herself into his touch and locking her legs around his hips like a vice, grinding into his erection and making him push down against that sweet friction, needing more, harder, faster. NOW. Body demanding its due and mind long forgotten thing in the corner like the shirt being ripped off by impatient little hands and thrown out of the way.

Same delicate fingers on his chest, digging in, leaving red trails to his nipples and pinching them hard, sting chased by a red tongue lapping over the sensitive skin and down. “God, Chloe!” Huge hand in blonde tresses, tugging, pulling her back up into a harsh kiss, leaving that red mouth to trail down her neck and collarbone, over her chest and down, breathing deeply and closing his eyes against the shiver of excitement down his spine. Relishing in the sound of every whimper and moan and the bite of fingernails along his shoulders as his hands find the waist of her pants, pop the button and pull down and down and ...Growling at the “Fucking boots!” as he sunk to his knees, nipping the inside of a pale thigh and going to work.

Removing the obstacles and discarding the pants, sliding back up the warm welcoming body and into another kiss. World spinning upside down as his body is flipped and trapped beneath strong, curvy legs, encasing his hips and her hands roaming again, teasing, pinching, stroking, fingertips just gliding down the center of his chest, hair falling over impish hazel eyes as she bends down and “Holy Fuck!” takes him in her mouth, swirling, licking, stubbing into the most sensitive spot and sucking the life out of him with a shuddering exhale from his lips. “'Sweet Jesus'”

So close to the edge as she pulls off and sits up and challenges him with a smile as she ever so slowly sinks down again, letting him feel the wet heat as his world suddenly spins again and fades into a black void.

Somehow, Chloe had ended up in a chair. She didn’t remember sitting down, but she didn’t remember much after she had stepped into the room. Her focus was fixed on the couple in the bed. She had never seen Lex that out of control. And it was all because of her. He had clawed her clothes off in a matter of what seemed like seconds.

With a move that Chloe had no idea how to execute, her double had trapped Lex below her. Her mouth gaped open slightly as she watched the double’s head bow and take Lex in her moth. Chloe’s eyes flew to Lex’s face and took in the look of unadulterated pleasure that claimed his features. His faced caved in in disappointment, and Chloe saw that her double had moved. Now, she was straddling him.

‘Oh, god.’ The moans and gasps of each other’s name had a very strong effect on Chloe. As did the visuals that she couldn’t turn away from. She shifted in the chair slightly, hoping to feel less uncomfortable. She gripped the arms of the chair tightly and watched as her double sank down on Lex.

Her double arched her back and gasped, “Yes,” before Lex’s hands first found their way to her thighs and then moved up to her hips. He bucked up against her viciously and her double cried out.

Chloe should leave. She shouldn’t be watching this. It was wrong. It was wrong to wish to be back in her double’s body. It was wrong that her hand ached to plunge below the waist of her jeans. It was just all wrong.

Her body remained immobile her double’s sped up. She saw Lex’s hands tighten and he said, “Just like that. Fuck, Chloe.” Her name was groaned out slowly and her double kept up the pace as her hands fastened onto Lex’s shoulders.

The bed was creaking and groaning and, what with all the noise they were making, Chloe prayed that their son and the rest of the people that lived on the ranch were far, far away. Not that either of their doubles seemed to give a damn about it.

A high pitched sound started to fill the room and Chloe realized that it was her double. Her eyes were rolling into the back of her head and her whole body started to shake. She now knew what people meant by the phrase the throes of passion. Her double’s body was out of control, but Lex held onto her waist, as the shudders ran through her body.

Her double’s body stilled and before she had a chance to do or say anything more, Lex had flipped her over. Chloe realized that he wasn’t done yet and watched as her double loosely wrapped her legs around his waist. Lex’s mouth claimed hers in a passionate kiss. From where she was sitting, Chloe could see his tongue entering her mouth.

“Lex,” her double screamed his name as he started to pound into her body.

“You like that, Chloe?” She couldn’t believe that his voice still had a note of teasing in it. How the man was even able to speak was beyond her.

The self satisfied look disappeared quickly and Lex groaned and then rested his head against Chloe’s shoulder. She could see a small look of triumph on her double’s face and had a fairly good idea of what had just happened.

Lex’s hips continued to move harshly again and after a few more thrusts, she heard him bark out her name. Chloe closed her eyes and pretended that it was her Lex saying her name like that. She heard the cries of her double and Lex’s and could smell their coupling thick in the air. Her eyes remained closed and a wave of dizziness washed over her.

~~~
Lex's groaned as he felt himself come to on a cold floor, his cock still painfully hard and his every nerve hyper sensitive. He rose up to a sitting position slowly and opened his eyes. Nothing. Wherever he was, it was pitch black and Lex couldn't even see his hand in front of his face.

The good news was, at least he could raise his hand in front of his face again now if he chose to do so.

“Shit,” he cursed under his breath as he got to his feet, trying to will away his arousal.

He'd been ripped out of his double's body just in time. Lex only hoped that wherever Chloe was, she wasn't still inside her double's body. The consequences wouldn't be pretty. But god her body was incredible. And not only that. She'd made him lose control even though he wasn't even an active participant in the whole scenario.

His mind had completely shut down and towards the end, he hadn't even been able to separate his own thoughts from the thoughts of his alter ego. It had all been too much and too good. Lex wasn't sure he'd be able to look at Chloe again without seeing the incredibly sexy and alluring woman that had seduced him in a matter of moments with nothing more than a few heated kisses and her sensual touch.

Shaking his head, he tried to rid his brain of these thoughts and get his mind back to business.

“Ok, some light would be nice,” he drawled into the darkness.

As if on command, he saw a square of dim light appearing over his left shoulder and turned around to face it. Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a small tv screen. As he stepped towards it, the picture unfroze and he watched Chloe, dressed in a red skirt and screaming yellow/orange shirt, enter the Torch office. She chuckled in surprise as she addressed him formally.

“Ah, we're playing that game again,” he muttered sarcastically.
~~
When Chloe opened her eyes, nothing happened. That wasn’t entirely true, she supposed. Her eyelids did open, but she couldn’t see any light, whatsoever. She was still turned on but fear was slowly overtaking her body. Anything could be out there in the dark.

She didn’t want to make any noise in case that was the wrong move, but she decided to speak at least one word. “Lex,” she called out in a questioning manner.

Unsurprisingly, she got no response.

Rising to her feet, Chloe hoped her eyes would adjust and things would start to make themselves clear. No such thing happened. The room remained dark. “This is just great,” she muttered.

She heard the sound of static and then her own voice. Chloe whipped around and saw a small television set about three feet above her head. She couldn’t tell what, if anything, was keeping it up there.

The Chloe on the TV was engrossed in her computer screen, clicking away like a mad fiend. At first, Chloe wasn’t sure if this was something that had happened before, had happened in a different world or had never occurred at all. She felt another headache coming on.

The camera appeared to pan around so Chloe could see what she was working on. It was an old story from a few years ago and she realized that this was a real event. The other Chloe looked up at the clock and started to shut down all of her programs. Her hand hovered above the mouse indecisively and then clicked on a web browser.

Chloe remembered what this was at that point. After a few more clicks, a picture of Lex popped up on the screen. This was after the first time that they had met in the Torch office. She had stayed for a few more hours. But, before she had left, she’d had some sort of compulsion to dig into him a little more.

The look on her face was unreadable and Chloe tried to remember what she had felt or what she was thinking. She remembered obviously finding him attractive, but not much else. Her double on the screen spoke, “It’s Lex,” she mimicked in a deep voice and both Chloes started to laugh good naturedly.

“I think things just got interesting,” the other Chloe murmured before shutting down the computer.

The TV went all crazy again with static appearing once more.
~~
Lex shoved his hands in his pockets as he watched the scene unfold. The first time they met, coincidence since he'd only been in the office to talk to Clark.

He'd approached her with his 'charming' smile and shook her hand. “It's Lex.”

They were talking about her meteor theory and Lex remembered he'd been completely honest when he said he liked her theory about them being the reason for so many things going wrong in Smallville. What he hadn't mentioned at the time was that it had been one of her articles that had gotten him started on the investigation of all things weird after his accident with Clark.

He'd been impressed by her straightforward way of writing and her courage to go a step further to reach for answers, even at the risk of making her seem like an unrealistic scifi-freak.

The offer to get her a summer internship at the 'Inquisitor' sounded incredibly arrogant, looking at it now, and judging by the look Chloe had shot him, she hadn't been too impressed either.

He found out later that her regard for that particular tabloid was as low as it could get, that her interest in journalism wasn't a lust for sensations but for genuine facts and news that uncovered flaws that needed to be addressed for the benefit of the public. She was an idealist, which Lex admired, but thought a bit naive from his point of view.

He watched himself swagger out of the office with a last parting shot to Clark, who'd been his main focus back then, because the boy had been the only one to reach out his hand as a friend. Lex berated himself for letting the need for acceptance and friendship cloud his judgment and reason when it came to Clark Kent.

The screen zapped back to static and Lex looked around once more, hoping to find a door, or at least a hint as to where to go to get out of this room. Nothing. Everything around him, except for the screen was complete pitch black.

“Ok, hit me with your best shot.” Lex turned back to the screen and relaxed his stance.

~~~~
Chloe continued to stare at the staticy TV, hoping that it would somehow turn into a door. When she noticed another light off to her right, she looked at the source of it and saw that another TV had sprouted out of thin air. It didn’t surprise her, though.

Sighing, she walked over to it. Sure, she could not look at the TV, avoid it by closing her eyes and ignoring it, but she knew that it would only forestall the inevitable. It took her a moment to place the scene because she hadn’t been in the establishment on the screen in a long while.

She saw herself and Clark walk into the Beanery. Then, she saw another man. ‘Rickman,’ her brain supplied. She and Clark had been investigating him and were meeting up with Lex.

As Clark had done some good, old male posturing, Chloe had made her way to the booth. Once she was facing Lex, she realized she didn’t know what to say to him. He nodded and gave her a, “Ms. Sullivan.”

Chloe gave him a, “Mr. Luthor,” in the same tone. She waited for him to start up a filler conversation until Clark came over, however, he just continued to look at her. ‘Probably thinks I can’t take the silence.’

Which, she couldn’t but she wasn’t about to let some billionaire trust fund magnate type guy get the better of her. She placed her chin in her hand and continued to look at him as he picked up his beverage and took a sip.

She wasn’t certain about the point of this game, or even what they were playing at, but Chloe knew she wouldn’t be the first to speak. Lex was sizing her up in some way and while it rankled her, she knew that it was in his nature to do that.

Finally, Clark came over and Lex’s demeanor shifted almost imperceptibly. Once Clark was seated, Chloe knew whatever was going on between her and Lex was over. She started to fill them in on the details she had dug up.

She had wrapped up her theory by saying, “I'm guessing whatever's going on started that summer day 12 years ago.”

Her gaze had been drawn to Lex and their gazes locked, neither of them looking away or blinking. Lex had broken the moment, saying, “Let's go ask him.”

Chloe had regretted her next words almost immediately after she said them, “Wait, you know where he is?”
Clark may have underestimated Lex’s involvements in everything meteor rock related but, even by this time, she could see that Lex was just as interested in the unexplained as she was.

That, coupled with his power to get whatever he wanted, should have led Chloe to believe that it was more than possible that Lex had information that he wasn’t sharing with Clark. Or her.

That damn smirk that had graced his face had caused her blood to boil. It was so smug and arrogant and infernal. Outwardly, she had given no reaction. Lex didn’t need that to add to the pile of reasons that he was patting himself on the back.

~~~
Nothing happened. Instead he heard white noise behind him and turned around to find another screen, a little lower than the first. The picture on the screen came to life, showing him sitting in the Beanery brushing off what looked like a regular salesmen. When Lex stepped closer to the screen, he recognized the man. 'Rickman.'

He watched as Rickman floundered off after receiving a biting remark from him and bumped straight into Clark, holding him up. Meanwhile, Chloe made her way to the booth and settled down opposite himself.

“Miss Sullivan.”

“Mister Luthor.”

He'd used the minute they had alone to seize her up, figure out what she was made of, waiting to see if she'd crack in the silence.

She didn't and Lex was impressed. It was only after Clark had come back that she launched into her tale, giving them important tidbits of information that sadly didn't fall into place until much later.

However, Lex had gotten his moment, or so he had thought when he offered to ask Kyle Tippet to give them some answers.

“Wait, you know where he is?”

Only looking at himself now could he see that the smirk on his face made him seem like an arrogant, aloof asshole. He wondered why Chloe hadn't made a comment about it back then. Instead she'd silently accepted his non-answer and let him drive her and Clark back to the mansion, keeping her mouth shut the whole time. He'd thought it strange for Chloe, even back then, but had brushed it off as anxiety. Seeing her tightlipped features and the glare she was shooting at him on the screen, showed him how wrong he'd been to assume.

After the way things turned out, he had had to give her even more credit. When they'd finally entered the guestroom in the mansion, the nurse had been alone there and the bed empty.

“Where's Tippet?”

“Who?” The nurse asked calmly from her chair.

Lex had been short of exploding then, he'd been so fed up that he didn't even accompany them, when Clark had announced he knew where Tippet was and wanted to go there.

Instead he'd stayed back at the mansion which had let to even more trouble later on.

Lex's hands clenched in his pockets as he watched the scenes unfold on the small tv screen. For the first time he was confronted with the knowledge just how much he'd not seen of Chloe yet.

As the screen went back to static after Clark and Chloe had left the room, Lex was left to his own thoughts in the dark once more.

Chloe could have taken her chance when they'd entered the empty room to get her revenge. Lex knew it must've been hard for her not to make a snarky comment after Lex had been so arrogant before in the Beanery.

He looked around the darkness once more. Nothing had changed.

“Chloe?” He called out. Maybe she'd been brought to the same room. Lex wanted to kick himself for not thinking of that possibility earlier. “Are you there?” he asked a little louder.

After a minute, he shook his head again, sinking back into his thoughts.

He wondered if he'd fucked up big enough to have the powers remove Chloe from the funhouse while leaving him to stew in here. That thought had at least the merit that Chloe was out and well and not tormented by whatever the fucking powers that be in this place.

Still there was a selfish part of him, and Lex hated to admit it was a big part, that wished she was still there and that if he turned around she'd be standing behind him, snarking about his attitude back when they'd first gotten to know each other.
~~~
After the screen went back to static, Chloe turned around and waited for another TV to appear. This place, while totally unpredictable most of the time, did have certain patterns that it adhered to. Mostly that it wouldn’t let you out of one situation until it was good and damn ready. She looked around and could see a little more because of the light from the TVs.

However, all she saw was space as far as she could see. If this place was going to hang onto her until TVs were jammed all over the place, it looked as if she’d be here a loooong time. She just wished there was a chair. Chloe turned around, hoping to see a nice comfy place to rest her butt, and she was sorely disappointed.

Another screen appeared, this one much bigger than the previous two. When the scene started, she recognized it. It was the beginning of the end of her sanity. This was where the first niggle of, well, interest had started in her.

It was her interview with Lex. She watched as Clark fiddled with the camera, much to her annoyance and Lex’s amusement. Once she was certain that they were actually filming, she had gotten right to the point.

“So, Mr. Luthor are there any more secret construction projects going on at Luthorcorp like level three?” She decided to give Lex the respect to not beat around the bush with stupid, opening questions. Chloe suspected he was expecting as much because he didn’t have much of a reaction. Only the usual Lex standby.

“Please, call me Lex.”

Fine, she could play that game. He was just stalling and it grated on her nerves. They both knew what she was there for. Clark may have thought that it would be a puff piece on Lex, but now that she had him in the room, she wasn’t about to give him soft questions.

Cutting to the chase she said, “OK, Lex you gonna answer my questions?” She fixed Lex with her eyes and only remembered that Clark was still in the room when he said her name in a shocked manner.

Lex called him off with the line by Benjamin Franklin. “Our critics are our friends, they show us our faults,” Lex had told him. She was familiar with the line. It used to be one of her favorites. She saw how reporters had trouble with pinning Lex down. He had a myriad of distraction techniques and knew how to use them well.

Certainly, more than one reporter had been thrown off track trying to place the quotes he threw their way. She, however, wasn’t one of them. Giving him what she hoped was a respectable smirk, she replied, “Benjamin Franklin.”

Lex acknowledged her correct answer with a nod. It was then that they were interrupted. One of his manservants came in to tell him that Lionel was on the line.

When Lex told her that he needed to take the call, she wondered if this was all a set up. The call coming right when things were about to get good.

Chloe had to remember not to laugh when Lex said that he’d take it in the conservatory. She wondered if Colonel Mustard was there with the wrench.

The laughter had quickly dried up when Lex had given her an all consuming gaze. She couldn’t have torn her gaze away from him even if she had tried, even if she had wanted to. Which she hadn’t. She just kept looking at him.

“I look forward to resuming our verbal judo.” Chloe had tried to analyze the words, their delivery, the subtext behind them and the actual content many times. But, she never came close to a definite decision about if he had been flirting with her.

She had caught the small smile Lex gave her and found herself smiling as she looked down at her notes. Chloe had tried to block out the silly, girly feelings that had bubbled up. But, they had taken root.

At the time, she didn’t have the luxury of thinking about it over and over. She had been too busy trying not to die.
~~~
Lex hadn't had time to ponder for long as another screen came to life, this one bigger than the other ones. He recognized the ill-fated interview attempt before either of them had even opened their mouths to say anything.

This had been the first time he'd flirted with Chloe, intentionally, to throw her off her game and it had worked.

Lex hadn't even been in the room when the hooligans had broken in and dragged Chloe into the hallway. He'd been too late to do anything and when he'd came back, the only thing he had been able to do was call an ambulance and wait with Clark next to Chloe's prone body until the paramedics arrived.

He'd vowed vengeance and he'd gotten it, but the point was he'd still failed to protect someone in his own house. Chloe hadn't been more than the friend of a friend back then, but it still had made something inside him twinge uncomfortably. He'd upped his security the next day.

The screen also showed him something he hadn't seen before. Chloe in the hospital with Clark, before he'd come in.

He watched the smalltalk between the two and Clark's awkward shuffling with an amused snort. The amusement died with the second half of her next comment.

“I especially like the ones from Lex. They make me feel like I won the Kentucky Derby,” she grinned and the camera panned to a horseshoe shaped wreath next to a pile of other flower arrangements.

Lex was going to fire his secretary. He tried to remember if it was still the same one, he didn't want to fire the wrong person after all. It had been years, but he was going to check into it as soon as he got out of this place. 'If I ever get out of here,' he sighed and turned his attention back to the screen just as it faded out and back into static.

He wondered how Chloe could ever have fallen in love with him because as of yet, he hadn't seen anything that would evoke that kind of feeling. More the opposite. He'd shown himself to be arrogant, aloof, distanced. It was amazing she could even stand him at that point. Not that he had cared too much back then.

'But now?'

Lex shook his head and waited for the next screen to show up. It was going to take a while in here if they intended to show him every single time that Chloe and he had ever met. Lex wished they'd at least provided him with a chair or a sofa to sit down.
~~~
Chloe had decided to sit on the ground. It wasn’t that comfortable, but it was better then shuffling around and standing. She leaned back on her hands and waited for another screen to appear. She didn’t have long to wait.

She watched as she took the stairs to Clark’s fortress of solitude two at a time. She had just found Pete in the Torch going through her stuff and then acting shifty, asking if she knew where Clark was. She wasn’t about to tell him what was happening, but maybe she could prod Clark in the direction of talking to her about what was going on between the two of them.

A figure stood by the huge window and Chloe figured out rather quickly that it wasn’t Clark. She stopped short and tried to look natural. “Hey, Lex.”

Seeing Lex there had thrown her off guard. She hadn’t expected to need much of her brain power to get Clark to admit that he was keeping things from her, but not Pete. Now, she knew she had to focus. Then there was the fact that she was out of breath and god only knew what she looked like. She hated even thinking such a thing. She didn’t give a good damn about what Lex thought of her.

Her eyes scanned the barn, looking for Clark. He wasn’t there. Immediately, she jumped into reporter mode. “Clark know you’re sulking about while he’s off doing….” She paused, “whatever it is he does.”

She walked in Lex’s direction and then leaned against the frame of the window and looked over the hills of the farm. The sun was setting and she couldn’t help but think that the beauty of it looked like a cheesy effect from one of those teen shows.

Once her attention was focused back on Lex, she quirked her eyebrows, waiting for his response.

Lex watched the next scene unfold, it was one of only 2 times that he'd been alone in the Kents' barn with Chloe. This was the first time. He didn't want to think about the second.

'Because you were insane or because you almost jumped her?' Lex's eyes widened. That had not been his voice in his head.

He still didn't really remember what had happened in those weeks, he'd only been told after the fact and. This had not been his voice in his head.

He pushed all thought aside and focused back on the scene on screen.

“I'm actually waiting for him, I'm sure he doesn't mind.”

'I did not almost jump her!' he denied inwardly, as his mind drifted back to his earlier thought.

On screen, Chloe nodded in acknowledgement, but gave him a look that clearly said his explanation wasn't good enough.

Lex wasn't even really watching the screen anymore. 'Not my voice!'

He couldn't hear Chloe's answer as something else was catching his attention.

Voices, yelling, somewhere in the distance. His head jerked immediately in the direction. He couldn't make out the words, but it was clear that whoever was yelling was very agitated. He concentrated harder on the voice and it almost sounded like...
~~~
Chloe’s attention was pulled away from the screen when she heard some sort of yelling coming from…well…nowhere. It was hard to pin down the direction because of the cloak of blackness that surrounded her.

She walked in the direction that she thought it was coming from and tried to pick out actual words. As she took a few more steps, she was getting further away from the TVs and, hence, further away from any type of light that was in the cavern she had been plunged into.


A: Lex and Chloe follow voices
B: Neither Lex or Chloe follow voices
C: Lex follows, Chloe stays put
D: Chloe follows, Lex stays put

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: Lex and chloe folow the voices!!! AAAAA! :worship2: :worship2: :worship2: :worship2:

[sydsvaughn]

AAAAA ... when in doubt, always follow the voices!!!

SaraC

[sylvia]

Whoa that was hot. I like how you wrote it from Lex's POV. Very nice. As for the choice thingy, A I guess. I want the two of them to meet up again soon and have lots and lots of uncomfortable UST. And then maybe give in and jump each other's bones, but of course that probably won't happen until at least half a dozen chapters later ;)

[autumngold]

Thank you for the excellent update!! I'm going to pick B!! I'd like Lex and Chloe to see more of the times they spent together!! :chlexsign4:

[tiger04]

I like A I want to know who is yelling. Is it another pair of lex and chole?

A please :cool:

AT

[Blackberry]

A - both follow the voices... :) this is awesome :)

[hfce]

The smut was :drool: and I love the going back in time theme. But I am curious about those voices. So I will pick AAAAAAAA


Hope :)

[buffiy18]

A, duh. I want Lex and Chloe in the same room again. Loved Lex being in his other's body when Chloe went down on him. Loved him loosing control.
:chlexsign3:

[S.Ann Smith]

A please

nice work ladies, I especially like the "not my voice"'s comments... highly amusing.

[Béatrice]

That'll be a A for me!!! :biggrin:

[newbatgirl]

Well OF COURSE they should follow the voices. A!

The thing with the horseshoe flower arrangement and Lex wanting the fire his secretary was brilliant. I thought the same thing when I saw the episode. I mean, WTF? Whichever one of you thought of that deserves a big :hug:

It's really the little things that keep NBG amused. Um... anyway - A!

[happy bunny]

Just found this story and caught up with the whole thing and I really can't believe I've missed this. Anyway, loving it so far and I really can't wait to see where it goes from here.

As for my vote, tempted as I am to see more of the times they spent together through both of their perspectives, you've got my curiosity peaked; I need to find out who's yelling. So, A it is.

[scifichick774]

A!

They're not called the truthseekers for nothing. :blinkkiss:

[kezz]

It's got to be A. Chloe is indescribably curious by nature an Lex will probably want to know if the voice can give him his memories back, so it's the only logical choice.

Update it soon though please!! :wub: :worship2:

Kezz....x.x.x.

[je_m'adore]

I'll go with door number....

[SIZE=14]A!

[lexchloe]

:smut: made me :drool: . :biggrin: I'm choosing A cos hopefully it will lead them back to eachother and I personally can't wait to see how Lex acts around the real Chloe after his um........experience with the doubles. :devil:

[Kit Merlot]

I just started to read this story and it rocks!

I think they should gor with... A!

Following the voices seems like the smart thing to do.

[Queen Of Tact]

Sorry It took me so long to leave FB but I didn't get home till late from taking Pat back to college...

Great update...loved it...

I have to say A, A, A, A, A, A, A


I can't wait to read more.....


CC

[chril1]

oh A definitely A

love lea
xxx

[Val]

A! Absolutely!

Ok, real feedback now: I've just started to read this yesterday and I'm completelly in love with this fic! The scenario changes (although unpleasent for them) are awesome! It never gets boring and it's not confusing either! You're both doing an awesome job (as usual) whith writting this!

I love it how they slowly opened up and how Lex finally understood what he feels about her. I can't wait for them to get in the same room together so I can see how he'll react to finding her again!

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: So, everyone of you who's ever read one of our collabs before knows, we really don't do short too well. In fact, at times we have a tendency to get rather....longwinded when we're on a roll. So that's why you're getting this chapter in 2 posts and the choices at the end of the second post. Enjoy, fiends and settle down for a long and bumpy ride. *nods*

A/N: Blue: Ok, this should give you a pretty strong fix. It's two updates for the price of one! Enjoy....well, some parts....

While Chloe wasn’t the biggest fan of deep, dark places, especially in this funhouse, she walked away from the light and towards the raised voices that were coming out of the darkness. Seriously, one of these days her curiosity would probably be the death of her. But ,she couldn’t help it.

The voices got louder after a minute, but it was still difficult to make out any actual words. She could tell it was a man and a woman, but that was about all. With every passing step, the voices became clearer. Chloe stopped when she realized that she could make out Lex’s voice. There was a pause and then the woman spoke. Sighing, Chloe listened to herself as she yelled at Lex that nothing was wrong with her and she was going to leave if he continued to badger her.

The darkness was still all around her and Chloe turned in every direction, trying to figure out where in the hell the voices were coming from. A moment later, she threw her arm over her eyes as blinding light filled the black room. She blinked numerous times after opening her eyes and could finally see herself and Lex.

They both looked less than pleased with one another. They were in his study, standing almost nose to nose. “Just drop it,” her double yelled at him and then turned away in order to leave.

Lex had followed the voices until he'd been swallowed by a bright light that his eyes only slowly adjusted to. When he could finally see properly again, he stood inside his study, watching an argument between Chloe and himself. The doubles were in each other's faces, Chloe's arms crossed defensively in front of her chest and his double's jaw clenched tightly in annoyance.

“Chloe, you have been acting different around me ever since I came back from Belle Reve, I want to know why. So no! I'm not going to drop it.” He heard himself bark into the face of Chloe's double.

This was obviously another altered universe. Chloe and he had never had an argument like that. True, she had behaved differently for a while after he'd returned from the asylum, but it had stopped after a few months and Lex had simply let it rest, he'd had enough other things to deal with at the time.

Now he was doubting his own memories. If nothing had happened in the barn before he'd ended up in the loony bin, why would they show him an argument like that? Why would it be important to address that event at all?

'Because something did happen,' Another thought, much like the first, coming out of nowhere, but Lex couldn't really remember. There were still gaps in his memory when it came to those seven weeks of his life, Lex hated it, but there was nothing he could do but accept the facts as they were.

Chloe’s stomach dropped at the words that Lex’s alter ego spoke. He wasn’t going to let it go, she knew that from his body language and the conviction that colored his speech. Lex was usually very apt at masking his feelings in a situation. Now, he wasn’t even trying. He was pissed and wanted to know the truth.

He just didn’t know that the truth was ugly and messy. Lex would be able to deal with it, but he wasn’t going to like it none the less. When Clark had left her in charge of Lex to go and talk with his parents, Lex had stalked around the room like a caged animal. He was muttering to himself and seemed ready to crawl out of his own skin.

Not knowing if it would help or hurt, Chloe slowly approached him and laid a hand on his shoulder, telling him to try to calm down. His eyes fixed on her and she gulped as she saw a person staring back at her that she barely recognized. The Lex she knew was still in there, just buried far beneath the man that stood before her.

Chloe thought that it was working, whatever it was that she was saying to him. Lex became calmer and much less agitated. It was only when it was too late that she realized what happened. As they spoke, Lex was walking towards her and she retreated from him. Now, she was backed into a corner of the room.

Fear started to worm its way into her system, but she reminded herself that this was Lex and he would never hurt her. That thought kept running through her mind even as Lex leaned closer still. She told herself that she would not run or scream or do anything so dramatic as that. She just kept talking, hoping that would stall anything that Lex had planned.

“Don’t you ever shut up?” His voice was low and Chloe felt his hand on her waist, his thumb making erratic patterns over her jeans. Even though she knew Lex didn’t know what he was doing, Chloe found herself getting riled up at the question.

Lex watched his double study Chloe's as he waited for his answer. Her bottomlip was caught between her teeth and her brows drawn together in concentration, but she kept silent.

Lex himself was now not so patiently waiting for an answer to the question. His own doubt was niggling at the back of his brain, where he still valiantly tried to reach for a memory that had been lost years ago.

His double was grinding his jaw as his hands worked in the pockets of his pants while Lex himself was unconsciously mimicking the action.

Chloe knew that her double was going to tell Lex what he wanted to know. She saw the gleam in her eyes and knew that her double was livid. “Fine,” she said, her voice tight. “You kissed me. You backed me into a corner, pressed yourself against me and kissed me.” Chloe could see that Lex was doing his damnest not to react to her words, which was pissing her double off even more.

“You happy now? Now that you know what happened? I know it wasn’t you and was trying to deal with it myself.” She uncrossed her arms and practically hissed the next words. “But, this is much better. I’m so glad that you couldn’t let this one go, Lex.”

She looked up at him expectantly, but he didn’t speak. After another few moments of silence, her double said, “Nothing to say, what, cat got your tongue?” Chloe knew that her double was hiding behind her anger. The truth was that she had been greatly affected by the kiss between them in the barn. She had enjoyed it and knew that it was wrong. She was mad at herself more than Lex.
Lex had a pretty good idea what was going through his double's head. He was completely dumbstruck himself.

'Could have been worse, you could have done something much worse,'

Of course, knowing how Chloe had felt about him even back then, Lex didn't know many things that could have been worse.

He still didn't really remember what had happened, but he had a good imagination, so it didn't take much to paint the scenario in his mind. How could Chloe have just moved on without ever saying something? Why had she never approached him? Then again, not knowing how Lex would react, and taking into consideration the way Chloe worked it was no surprise. If he'd approached her back then, he'd have known. It would have made things a lot different, he guessed. But what would he have said, what would he have done if he'd known? At the moment, his mind drew a complete blank.

“There's no excuse for my behavior, Chloe and I'd understand if you want to keep away from me,” his double said silently, looking Chloe straight in the eyes.

“It ...” His double turned away heading straight for the wet bar. “It never should have happened like that.”

Lex watched his double's jaw working furiously as steady hands poured a double. He gulped it down in a few swigs and poured another. “Like I said, I'll completely understand if you won't be able to continue working with me under these circumstances.”

Chloe’s double shook her head and rolled her eyes. This was exactly why she hadn’t told Lex. She didn’t want apologies and awkward tension between them. They were working on a common goal. Well, that and she didn’t want to deal with how it had felt to have Lex totally focused on her. She could still feel his body pressed against hers if she thought about it.

A thought struck both of the Chloe’s at the same time. Chloe saw her double stalk over to Lex and turned him around after he had downed the second shot. “If it never should have happened that way, how should it have happened?”

Lex’s double had apologized for the way that he had kissed her…not the fact that he had kissed her. Chloe could see that her alter ego was waiting for Lex’s answer with bated breath. Her body was coiled, no doubt ready to pounce on any excuse that Lex gave her. Chloe shook her head, knowing that Lex, no matter which one they were talking about, would only admit what he wanted to. He could dismiss his earlier words quite easily and her double would be left looking like a foolish schoolgirl. This was a situation Chloe was becoming all too familiar with.

Lex's shoulders tensed while his double did his best to stay 'relaxed', shoving his hands back into his pants pockets and giving Chloe's double a calculated look. “What I meant to say is that it was highly inappropriate of me to make such an advance on you in the first place and on top of that, I was using your inexperience to get the better of you. That shouldn't have happened and I apologize,” his double stated matter of fact.

Lex hissed in a breath, waiting for Chloe to completely blow up in his double's face. He didn't know how deep that dismissal cut, since Chloe wasn't after a simple admission, but rather reciprocation of feelings she was already harboring. This was not going to be pretty.

'Good thing we never had that talk,' he thought.

‘Oh, dear.’ Chloe knew how bad of a move Lex had made. Purposely, most likely. She supposed that he thought he deserved to be punished for what he had done and who better to do that than the person he had ‘violated.’

She wished that they were on a TV, that way, she would be able to turn down the volume when her double started in on Lex’s. She had a feeling that no matter what her double said, it was going to be loud.

Her double violently shoved Lex, but he was prepared for it and he barely moved. This seemed to incense her double even more and she screamed, “You arrogant prick!” She pushed at him again and Lex didn’t bother to defend himself, he just stood there, unmoving as her double started to scream in his face.

“It’s not bad enough that you insisted that I tell you something that I didn’t want to, that I wasn’t ready to. Now, you’re telling me that you think you took advantage of me? That I’m so weak willed that even when you’re out of your mind,” at that, Lex’s face twitched but no more, “you can still get the better of me.” Her double paused. “Fuck you, Lex.”

As her double pushed at his shoulders, Lex took hold of her wrists and she fought against him in vain. Her frustration and anger doubled at the fact that she couldn’t free herself from his grip. “Let me go, you bastard.”

Hearing the words, Lex acquiesced. Chloe clearly hadn’t expected that and she was off balance when Lex released her. She stumbled back and landed on her ass. Even from this position, her double was still ready to fight.

There were obvious tears in her eyes, a combination of hurt and anger as she glared up at him. “I know that you’re sorry, Lex. You’re a sorry excuse for a human being. Though, I suppose it’s genetic.”

Lex swallowed heavily at those words. They didn't leave his double unaffected either who visibly paled and froze in mid step from trying to help Chloe up off the floor.

Chloe had lashed out and hit his weakest spot right on the mark. His doubles gaze hardened as all emotion seemed to seep from him.

Chloe winced at the words. She was going for blood, no longer caring about what she said and its effect on Lex. Her double got off of the floor and snatched her bag from its resting place on the couch. Her back was to Lex and she said, “I have no intention of letting this stop me from taking your father down. Only contact me when you have information about that. I don’t want to talk to you or see you otherwise.”

She turned around as she fixed her bag over her shoulder. Chloe could see defeat written all over her alter ego’s face and she noticed, for the first time, how tired, beaten and worn she looked. “When you try to rationalize my behavior and words, just remember that you brought it on yourself.”

Her double spun around and left the room. Chloe spared another glance at Lex, who stood immobile by the bar, before everything went black again.

Lex shook his head silently as he watched Chloe's double march out of the study, slamming the door behind her. His gaze returned to his own double, standing still as a statue and looking straight ahead at the spot where she'd just stood a few moments ago.

'Definitely a good thing we never had that talk,' he thought. It would have ruined their partnership completely and any chance he'd ever have had with Chloe.

Lex stopped short at that thought, wondering why it would even matter, and why it would matter so much to have a 'chance' with Chloe. Before his mind could wander any further, everything went black in front of his eyes once more.

When Chloe could see again, she was back inside of the funhouse. For a moment, she thought that they were somehow actually free. But, when she touched the doorknob, her hand passed right through it.

She saw both her body and Lex’s were still in the trance like state they had been shown by her mother. As she watched them, they both began to cough. They looked at one another and Lex broke their eye contact. “Let’s get the hell out of here,” he muttered. He stood up and held out his hand to Chloe. Her double took it and, as soon as she had righted herself, quickly let go.

The doubles made their way out of the funhouse and Chloe’s wrapped her arms around her body, obviously cold. Even though they had been trapped in the funhouse for what seemed like ever, it looked as if only a few hours had passed in real time.

When they reached their cars, they both stopped and looked at each other awkwardly. Lex spoke first.

“Chloe, I’m sorry that…” but her double cut him off.

Softly, she said, “I know, Lex. It’s ok.” Clearly her double was lying, it was as far from ok as something could be. “I’ll um….” Her double looked towards her car. “I better go. I’ll see you soon.”

Chloe felt herself being pulled towards her double as she got into the car and started the engine. On the way back to her house, her double spoke outloud, berating herself for her stupidity. As soon as she returned home, her double flopped onto her bed, totally exhausted and fell asleep.

Lex found himself back in the funhouse, in the room the woman from Oz had showed them.

Again he was faced with doubles of them, but the real Chloe was nowhere in sight. But seeing as this was obviously a version of the future, it proved that she still had to be somewhere inside the funhouse. Quite selfishly, Lex breathed a sigh of relief.

He watched as their doubles came out of their trance and exchanged a few awkward sentences before heading out and to their cars.

As his double got into the (whatever the hell car it was), Lex was forced to follow and settled in the passenger seat, watching his double closely on the way back to the mansion.

“It was the right decision,”

His eyebrow arched in surprise. He'd never made a habit of talking to himself out loud. It was a sure sign that whatever had happened in the meantime had affected him more than most things could.

He wondered what would have to happen to make the powers give up on their mission and release them from their thrall without achieving their goal.

Whatever it was, it obviously hadn't been nice for either Chloe nor himself, because his double looked about two seconds from exploding and the needle on the speedometer was pushing 120 as the car speeded down the curvy roads towards the mansion.

When the car finally stopped, Lex followed his alter ego into the castle and up the stairs directly towards the study. His other self didn't even drop his coat, just went straight for the bar and the bottle of scotch.

Ignoring the tumblers on the silver platter, he opened the bottle and took a healthy gulp straight from it, then chased it down with another and a third, clenching his jaw against the shiver of alcohol through his system.

Lex shook his head as his double kept the bottle in hand and wandered across the room, falling onto the leather couch in a careless sprawl.

“Fuck!”
Time in this place was very strange, Chloe mused as she watched her double get ready for a date. This place didn’t show her the day to day stuff, apparently, it was just showing Chloe the highlights of what could possibly come after they left the funhouse.

Obviously, she had pulled back from Lex. Now that he knew how she felt, she didn’t want to smother him with her presence. Instead, she just stayed away. That meant that most of her time was spent with Clark and Lana. She had passively watched them do their little non mating dance. Finally, Lana had become sick of it and told Clark, in no uncertain terms, that she wasn’t going to do that with him anymore. They had still remained friends. Two weeks later, he had asked Chloe out.

Aghast, Chloe had only been able to watch as her double had not only accepted the invitation but had actually started dating Clark. No matter how hard she tried to get away, she was forced to watch herself making out with Clark. How could she have let that happened after what he had done to her in Metropolis?

It was during one of the fumbling heavy petting sessions that Chloe got a good look at her double’s face. She was staring straight ahead, no real expression on her features. But, her double said all the right things and reacted in the way that was expected of her.
Obviously, she had closed herself off to feeling anything anymore.

She watched as everyone they came into contact with gushed about how perfect they were as a couple. Her dad and the Kents were practically planning their wedding and their future and Lana seemed to actually be happy for them.

Chloe had no idea if Lex had found out or not. Neither she nor Clark spoke with him and his name never seemed to come up in the conversations that she was privy to. She was leaning towards no when the issue resolved itself.

She was sitting on a trunk in her room, trying to ignore what was going on in the bed. From what Chloe could gather, she and Clark had been together for a few months by now. Instinctively, she ducked as a shirt was thrown her way. Clark was naked and she was only wearing her panties by now. But, the way things were progressing, she thought that would change very quickly.

Lex had spend what must be months at the side of his double, but for him was only a few hours. He'd gotten snippets of his life after the funhouse and so far everything seemed as it was to expect. His double was going about his daily routine like before, nothing seeming amiss.

Only if you looked close enough, and Lex watched very closely for lack of anything more interesting to see, one could tell that things weren't normal.

There was an underlying tension in every move he made, every contact, business or social with another person. The few dates he'd gotten to see ended at the front door, not in a guestroom.

He was still consorting with Lana, because of the Talon, but she was the only one. He'd cut all ties with Clark completely, which wasn't surprising, and Chloe seemed to have been swallowed by the face of the earth.

Lex was getting worried. This was not what he wanted to be the outcome of their little adventure. He wondered if his Chloe was out there with her double, watching life after the funhouse from her perspective. It would be another blow to the gut and Lex had no idea how many more of them Chloe would be able to take before she completely lost it. This just wasn't fair to her.

As his double suddenly got up from the couch and turned his back on Lana to pour himself a scotch, Lex turned his attention back to the conversation.

“You'll forgive me my skepticism, Lana, but I hardly think it's the way you think. Clark and Chloe? The last time I spoke to her she was quite clear that she wasn't interested in him that way.”

'Uh oh' Lex watched his double pour a healthy dose of scotch. He'd seen him do that a lot of times during the scenes the powers had shown him.

He turned his attention to Lana who had a confused and slightly stupefied expression on her face as she looked at Lex's back.

“Uhm, I don't think there's anything to misinterpret when you see someone playing tonsil hockey over a shared grande cup of latte,” she blinked rapidly.

His alter ego's hand clenched tighter around the glass he was holding and Lex flinched as he downed the rest of his drink in one gulp.

“Well, then I must have been the one misunderstanding,” his double turned back to Lana with a nonchalant smirk. “So, there were a few numbers that didn't add up you said?”

As his double walked back towards the couch, time and place shifted again and he found himself beside his double in front to the Sullivan's front door.

Lex was still trying to process the information he'd just received as his double rang the bell twice and upon getting no answer opened the door and stepped inside. Sometimes a small town had its perks.

They'd barely crossed into the living room when a heavy thud sounded from upstairs. Frowning, Lex hurried up the stairs behind his double, both striding down the second floor hallway when another, louder bang came from behind a closed door.

Knocking rapidly, his double opened the door in the same move stepping inside the room with a worried “Chloe?”

Any other comment got stuck in his double's throat and Lex found out why a moment later, when he too saw what his alter ego had happened upon.

His breath stalled and for a second Lex thought his asthma had chosen now to return and leave him asphyxiating in front of Chloe's bed.

His double didn't fair much better and while Lex was completely paralyzed at the view of the copulating couple on the bed, his alter ego took a deep shuddering breath....and exploded.

[BlueSabby]

“WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING!?!?!” he roared as he launched himself at Clark and tried to pull him away from Chloe, never mind the fact that it was like trying to move the rocky mountains by hand. “YOU FUCKING BASTARD! HOW CAN YOU EVEN DARE TOUCH HER AFTER WHAT YOU'VE DONE!”

Lex himself was still unmoving in the same spot as he watched, trying to breathe around the lump in his throat and the iron band that seemed to have his lungs in a vice grip. 'She's with him' ran like a mantra through his mind while his double went ballistic on a shocked and very confused couple.

“GET THE FUCK OFF HER, NOW! I DIDN'T SEND HER AWAY SO YOU COULD USE HER AGAIN!”

Clark had gotten up off the bed and was trying to calm Lex down, obviously trying to avoid getting hit so Lex couldn't break his hand with a punch and leave Clark to explain that fact. “I SWEAR TO GOD IF YOU TOUCH HER I'LL MAKE YOUR LIFE A HELL YOU CAN'T IMAGINE!”
His double was ignoring Chloe completely, white rage blinding him to anything other than Clark. Lex himself watched as she tried to cover herself up with a sheet, looking with wide eyes at Lex caught between wanting to react and fear of what could happen if she drew attention to herself at that moment.

'Why?' he wondered as he watched Chloe's reaction. She didn't seem to be fearing for Clark at all, or she would have stepped in by now. 'Why him?'

Chloe covered her mouth when Lex had entered the room. If she had thought of what could have made what she was witnessing any worse, him catching them would rate on top of her list. At least it had made her double and Clark stop having sex. However, that was little comfort right now as she watched and enraged Lex try to catch Clark.

Her double was frozen, a sheet covering her as she was huddled by the headboard. For the first time in a long time, Chloe saw real emotions passing over her face. She was torn about what to do. When Lex launched himself at Clark, catching him off balance and the two men toppled over onto the floor, Chloe finally moved.

Fastening the sheet firmly around her body, she quickly made her way over to them and started to pry Lex’s body off of Clark. “Lex, stop!” It seemed like he didn’t hear her because he kept trying to get his hands around Clark’s throat. Not to be deterred, Chloe wrapped her arms around Lex’s waist and pulled as hard as she could. “I said stop you dumb fuck!”

Lex wasn’t listening to her at all. Clark had finally regained his wits about him, as much as he could that was, and grabbed Lex’s fists. He easily threw the older man off of him. Chloe took the opportunity to put herself between Lex and a rather naked Clark.

“What in the hell do you think you’re doing?” Her double was red in the face and screaming at the top of her lungs. “What gives you the fucking right to come into my house without being invited?” She advanced on him. “Especially when I was having such a good time.” She had lowered her voice and fixed Lex with her eyes.

Lex's double was still shaking with rage and breathing hard. “What am I thinking? What the hell are you thinking? He almost fucking raped you and now you're here playing the happy couple just because I didn't ....” at this point the words seemed to be stuck in his throat again as he looked at Chloe utterly incredulous.

Lex was shaking himself as he watched Chloe's behavior and tried to wrap his mind around the fact why she would let Clark even touch her, never mind fuck her.

He didn't even realize he was shaking his head at the whole situation. It just wasn't possible that Chloe would do this, she couldn't do this, anyone, anyone else he might have understood, but the alien?

He still couldn't quite breathe right and all he wanted at that moment was to get out of here and get Chloe back, to tell her that whatever happened that was not an option.

Chloe shut her eyes and sat down in a chair, trying to come to grips with the situation in front of her. Lex, because he hadn’t seen her in months, hadn’t seen the changes that had come about in her after the fun house. Her double just didn’t care anymore. She went through the motions of living her life but didn’t feel anything anymore. So, what did it matter who she slept with?

That was, at least, as much as Chloe could understand what her double was going through. However, it was unsettling to think, even for a second, that she would go and be with Clark. Not just date him but sleep with him. The very thought turned her stomach.

“You have no right to ask me these questions, Lex.” Her double spat out his name. She picked up the sheet a little so she could move closer. “You have no right.” She stressed every word.

Clark piped up behind her, “Yeah, Lex, I think that….”

“Nobody cares what you think Clark,” Chloe shot back, her eyes still on Lex.

“Not everything is about you, Lex.” Her double was standing as close as she could get to the man without actually touching him. “And, as for that other incident that you mentioned,” here Chloe could see that her double faltered a little, “it was in the past and it wasn’t even him. This time, I was a willing participant. And, it’s not the first time this has happened, Lex.”

Chloe really didn’t know what her double was hoping to accomplish with this. Lex looked ready to throttle her as well right about now. “We’ve fucked before.” Her double shrugged. “It’s not really that big a deal.” She lowered her voice so Lex was the only one that could hear her. “He wasn’t even my first.”

Chloe had no idea if her double was lying or not. If Chloe had been with another man before Clark, the fun house hadn’t shown her that.

Lex's head whipped around to face Chloe directly at that last sentence, poleaxed. There had been someone else? Why?

'Who?!'

His double's nostrils were flaring as he leaned closer to Chloe's, keeping their gazes locked. “If you had somebody else, why did you settle for him,” he snarled. “Everyone is better than that.” His double pointed a finger back towards Clark, who was by now shoving his legs back into his jeans, being smart enough to stay out of it for once.

'True, why would she go for him, unless...'

“There was no one else, in fact I'm sure you don't even want to be with him. He's just what everybody expects of you and you're willing to resign and just live with it.” His double shook his head, snorting in disgust. “I expected more from you.”

Lex's heart altered between skipping beats and running marathon in his chest and he had no idea why. The odd sense of relief at his double's theory came completely unexpected and watching Chloe's reaction to his words sent him into a tailspin of guilt. She looked like she'd been slapped.

The next move didn’t surprise Chloe at all. But, even though she had been expecting it, she hadn’t thought that the slap would be so loud. Then again, the room was pretty damn quiet. Lex didn’t react at all to being struck by Chloe. Her double pulled her hand back and slapped Lex a second time.

Chloe took another step towards their doubles, thinking that if she tried hard enough, she could make her alter ego stop. How had it gotten this far? And, if this was who she turned out to be without closure on her feelings from Lex, what did that say about her? That was what scared her the most. That she was obviously more than capable of becoming the person that she was watching now. She wasn’t sure when the tears on her face had started but they were flowing now.

She could see an angry red mark appear on Lex’s face where her hand had struck him, but there was no other change in his face. As her hand flew back for a third time, she saw Clark grip her wrist and say, “Enough.”

Her double wrestled away from Clark and glared at him. He let go of her and then retrieved his clothing before silently leaving the room. Clark stalked past Chloe and she could see the anger written on his face. But, her double paid no mind as he trudged down the stairs and slammed the door after leaving her house.
The other Chloe looked back at Lex. “You got what you wanted. I doubt Clark will want a girlfriend prone to violence. Now, get out and don’t bother coming back.”

Her double turned around and then walked to the opposite side of the bed. She sat down and reached for a glass of water on the bedside table. Chloe could see that her hands were shaking badly.

Lex couldn't help walking closer to Chloe as his double stood stock still breathing harshly and trying to will himself back under control. When he walked around the bed and crouched down in front of her his heart dropped into his stomach as he watched the tears streaming silently down her cheeks.

'God, not again,'

He tried to reach out and touch her, but it seemed that every time he was close to actually touching her, the double's body shifted minutely to avoid his touch.

It was driving him insane to watch her so broken and once again because of him. He hadn't meant to fuck up this bad. He'd never handled women crying very well and especially not the ones he cared for.

His gaze jerked up to his alter ego, giving him a death glare.

“DO something already.”

As if he'd heard him, his double jumped into motion, slowly approaching the bed. Lex stepped out of the way as his other self crouched down in front of her the same way he'd just done.

When his double slowly laid his hands on top of her thighs, Chloe looked up with pain filled eyes and Lex had the intense urge to kick himself, literally.

Chloe could see the double warring with herself. She obviously wanted Lex to stay, but she was angry that he wasn’t listening to her. As usual. Her pride was important to her and she wasn’t sure if her double could swallow it and allow Lex to stay. Her double ducked her head and Chloe found herself sitting on the floor. She looked to her right when she felt warmth radiating onto her arm. Nothing was there, though.

Slowly, her double reached out and laid her hands on top of Lex’s. She gently took them off of her body and then swung her legs up and onto the bed. She turned her back to Lex and settled herself on her side and curled up. “I told you to leave.” Her voice was flat and sounded worn out. Chloe looked over at Lex’s double to see if he would press on with her.

“Don’t give up.” Chloe whispered the words. She just couldn’t imagine things ending like this between the two of them. Growing apart, that was fine. But, something this ugly and messy was unacceptable to her. It didn’t do justice to the respect and friendship that they had had.

Lex watched from his position by the bed as his double's head slowly lowered before it came back up fixing intently on Chloe's unmoving body on the bed.

Lex breathed a sigh of relief once more. His double was not going to give up.

“Not until you hear me out,” he stated, his voice hoarse from all the screaming he'd done in his earlier rage.

Lex stood straighter as he waited for the reaction of Chloe's double. As he shifted his weight, warmth was traveling up his left leg, but found nothing on the floor that would explain where it came from. Dismissing it, he turned back to the doubles. Waiting.

Chloe breathed a huge sigh of relief. Maybe everything wasn’t lost then. The floor was cold and she stood up, now getting annoyed that she couldn’t see the source of the heat that brushed against her right arm when she did so.

Her doubles voice was a little muffled, probably from the pillow that she was resting on, “Don’t you think we’ve both said enough for tonight, Lex?” She turned over and looked up at Lex. “I’m tired of us hurting one another, aren’t you?” Chloe could see that her double was asking the question honestly. For once, she wasn’t being a smartass.

Lex hoped that his double wouldn't fuck up now, if he at least wanted to salvage their friendship. The thought of parting with Chloe in anger made his stomach clench in a way he only knew from bad seafood and fatty goose pate.

His double sat down on the edge of the bed, looking down at Chloe. “I never meant to hurt you, Chloe. I'm sorry.” His doubles voice was soft, “You know how much your friendship meant to me,” he shook his head, “Still means to me.”

Lex watched unblinking, waiting for Chloe's response. He hoped that the real Chloe and him never had to go through this and he vowed not to do anything that would push her that far away.

Chloe knew what her double was feeling. Even though she couldn’t see herself going down the road that led she and Lex here, they were still the same person. Her double sat up and pulled her knees to her chest as she leaned her head back against the bed. “I know you didn’t mean to hurt me, Lex.” She opened her eyes and looked at him. “But, it still happened.” She shrugged and struggled for words.

No matter what happened, Chloe wouldn’t allow this to be their future. Yes, when they got out of here, she would be in pain. But, she’d be damned if it got to a point where she couldn’t even talk to or see Lex anymore.

Her double spoke softly. “I can’t help the way I felt,” she paused and then went on, “feel about you. And you can’t help the way you don’t feel about me.” She ran a hand through her hair and looked back up at him. “I don’t think that there’s anything we can do about it.” Her double looked away from Lex. “I’m sick of feeling like this.” She spoke the words almost to herself.

Lex stepped away from the bed and towards the window as his alter ego lowered his head, clenching his jaw at Chloe's last words.

“Chloe, I...” His gaze shifted towards his alter ego wondering where this was going.

'Hell, just get me out of here and get me back to Chloe, I promise I won't let this happen, no matter what, ok?' Lex sent the silent prayer up to the powers that be, turning away as his double fought for words.

Lex had turned his face away staring out the window, giving up on listening to the scenario playing out behind him. It didn't matter, it would never happen like that, because he would never let Chloe and him drift apart like that. She was too important.

“Give her back, I promise I won't hurt her,” he mumbled as he sat down on the window sill.

Well, this wasn’t going the best that it could. The other Lex was still grasping for words to communicate with her double. She ran a hand through her hair and looked away from the couple. Her body froze when she looked towards the window.

She didn’t want to take her eyes away in case it was her imagination, but she needed to make sure that she hadn’t finally gone batty.

Chloe closed her eyes and counted to ten. When she opened them again she smiled. It wasn’t all in her head. Lex was sitting on the windowsill. She didn’t know how long he had been there and what he had seen, but it really didn’t matter to her. He was back, that was the bottom line.

Carefully, she wasn’t sure that he wouldn’t just disappear, she approached the window. He was also looking out the window and didn’t notice her as she crept up on him.

“Lex?”

Lex saw as a reflection slowly took shape in the window, his body freezing mid breath, He knew for a fact that the doubles were still sitting on the bed, so it couldn't be the faux approaching him from the side. Closing his eyes for a second standing another instant prayer to whichever power might listen he slowly turned his head, just as Chloe stepped up beside him.

'God, Thank you' He mouthed silently as he grabbed her arm and pulled her into a tight hug, holding on to make sure she couldn't disappear again.

“I thought I'd fucked up too bad,” he murmured as he tightened his grip around her shoulders and back. “Where did they sent you, what did they do to you?”

His mind wasn't quite grasping the fact what he was doing, Lex was just so glad that for once the powers listened and gave him what he really wanted instead of twisting it around to turn against him. “Are you ok?”

Some part of his mind was trying to tell him that he should release her, but the part of him that wanted to hold on won out for now.

Chloe was finding it a little difficult to breathe as Lex’s powerful arms held her in place. But, it was a welcome feeling. She returned the embrace fiercely, enjoying the contact that she had been denied for what felt like an eternity.

She kept her arms fastened around him as she spoke. Lex had made no move to let her go and she felt that he needed the closeness just as much as she did. His first statement led her to believe that he though their separation was his fault. It couldn’t be, anything that happened in here was the fault of this damn place.

“I’m ok, Lex.” She felt him relax slightly and she went on. “I wasn’t sent anywhere bad. I was with the other doubles at the farm for awhile,” she rushed on, not wanting to explain exactly what she had seen. “And after that I was with those two.” She gestured to the bed with her head as best as she could in her current position.

Lex nodded against her shoulder. As his mind pieced together the information, his jaw clenched. They probably made her see everything and if he was going to go out on a leg he'd be willing to bet she'd been stuck in her double's body as well. He tightened his grip once more, before running a hand soothingly up and down her back. “I'm sorry, Chloe. I ...” How could he really make up for anything she'd went through? There just was no way to just say sorry and make everything alright again. “I wish I could get us out of here,” He was finally able to pull back far enough to look Chloe in the face. “I'll find a way, I promise.”

She could see that Lex was taking all of what happened and putting it on his shoulders. Being that his arms were still around her, Chloe didn’t think he would mind a little more contact. She palmed his cheek and said, “You don’t have to apologize for anything, Lex. It wasn’t your fault.”

He started to speak but Chloe shook her head, forestalling anymore words from Lex. “Whatever happens in here isn’t my fault and it’s not yours.” She smiled up at him. “You would never do anything to purposely hurt me. Don’t you think I know that?”

Lex smirked, casting a wry look over his shoulder to where the doubles....should have been. He'd been so immersed in finally having the real Chloe back that he hadn't even noticed the change of the scenery around them.

They were back in the funhouse, in an empty room, sitting at the sill of a huge winged window.

”In some way it is, because obviously I'm doing something wrong or we would be out of here, I just don't know what...,” he trailed off, shaking his head. “But we'll get out of here and I'll monitor my thoughts to make sure something like this doesn't happen again,” he added decisively.

Chloe realized that she wasn’t going to get anywhere trying to convince Lex that it wasn’t his fault so she dropped that particular topic. Another one of his phrases stuck in her head and her brows furrowed in confusion. “Monitor your thoughts?”

She was curious as to what that meant, she wasn’t accusing Lex of anything, she just wanted to know why he would now be monitoring his thoughts. Her mind still working in overdrive. “Did you…” she trailed off, she didn’t know how to phrase this delicately. Or if she wanted to know the answer to the question. “Did you want to be separated from me?”

If he had felt that way, Chloe was even more confused. They had been getting along fairly well when they had been separated. If anything, Lex had been being especially wonderful, trying to understand how hard it was for her. So, why would he want them to be apart?

Lex shook his head, running his hands up and down Chloe's arms to relax her tense muscles, “No, no I didn't want you gone. It was just a sarcastic thought, remember when I was reorganizing the books in that other room?” When Chloe nodded, a small smirk curling at the corners of her mouth, he took a deep breath and launched into his admission. “I was irritated about the chaos and then the thought went through my head, I don't even remember what it was but it wasn't meant seriously,” he let his hands slide down her arms until he could take her hands, “And the next time I turned around, you were gone. The powers twisted my own thoughts to turn them against me,” he whispered harshly, “I won't let that happen again.”

Chloe didn’t mean to do it. Lex was being so damn earnest, contrite and forceful about not losing her again so her reaction was totally inappropriate. She started to laugh and Lex attempted to extricate his hands from her. Holding on tightly to Lex, she said, “I’m sorry, I can see that this was rough for you.” And, she was still trying to wrap her mind around that little tidbit, “But you have to see the humor in this whole thing happening because you don’t like my librarian skills.” At least, she hoped he would see the humor in it.

He'd almost regretted telling her the truth, until she'd explained her odd reaction. He fought the smile that was trying to break out, running the tip of his tongue along his teeth, as he pressed his lips tight together. When he had his face back under control, allowing only a small smile, he dared to answer, “True. Looking at it from this angle, it's actually your fault. Just what were you thinking, putting a highly rated copy of a historical book between fairy tales and cheesy romance novels?” He didn't even have to fake the exasperation in his expression and voice.

She pulled one of her hands away from his and whacked him lightly on his shoulder. “You elitist snob,” she said, trying not to laugh at the almost outraged tone of voice that Lex was using on her. Obviously, her organizational skills upset his delicate sensibility of order in the world. Well, the other Lex had gotten used to it somehow.

“Did it ever occur to you that that room used to be mine and then you started shoving your dusty, megalomaniacal books up on the shelves in some subconscious desire to conquer a room that didn’t have your priceless treasures in it?” Taking her other hand away from him, she placed her hands on her hips and looked up at him, quirking an eyebrow in his direction. “Don’t worry, I’m sure there is some room where everything of yours is safely ensconced in glass cases.” She paused for a second, “And I’d wager that I’m not allowed in there unsupervised.”

Lex had stifled his laughter through half of her speech. She sure was creative with words. If he didn't know better he would have felt insulted by it, but then, being considered an elitist snob was something he could live with, especially since both of them knew it wasn't true. Well at least not when it came to people. Books, however....

“I should hope so, I don't even want to imagine what you're capable of if I left you free reign.”

He'd missed the light-hearted banter more than he'd ever thought possible. Chloe's grin was contagious and he allowed himself to smile back, shaking his head.

“It's good to have you back,” he said in a low voice, reaching out to touch her arm again, still not quite able to let too much distance come between them.

It surprised him that where Chloe was concerned, his personal space wasn't even half as wide as usual. Only a few people could get that close without instantly making his body tense in alert.

Lex had no idea what he was doing to her. If Chloe had been confused before they had been separated, she had no clue what was going on now. He didn’t love her, he had told her that in no uncertain terms. But, he did care about her friendship a great deal, she knew and trusted in that fact.

Their close proximity was beginning to have an effect on her that was wrong and would only lead to her getting hurt. But, she didn’t want to pull away from Lex. She could see that their separation had done something powerful to Lex, even if she didn’t understand it. She wanted to know what he had seen, but was a little scared to ask.

Between all the touching and the tone of voice he was using with her, Lex was damn lucky that she was pushing down her natural urges. He was still watching her carefully and she knew that she had to say something. “I’m happy to see you, too, Lex.” She gave him what she hoped was a bright, normal smile. He simply nodded and continued to study her. She didn’t know what was going on in his head, but she just waited for him to speak again. Time was something that they had in abundance.

She was amazingly calm for what had just happened. Lex couldn't imagine what it had been like for her to watch the two of them getting into a fight like that. He leaned back against the windowsill, keeping his eyes on Chloe. He wondered if she thought that this was what was going to happen when they made it out of here.

“That fight we watched just now, do you think this is what will happen when they let us leave?”

If she did, she should know it wasn't. No matter what happened down the line, Lex wouldn't just let her go like that. The scene he'd had to watch was absolutely hideous and the stone in his stomach returned with a vengeance as he remembered Chloe's alter ego's crestfallen expression and silent tears. He never wanted to have to see his Chloe look like that because of him.

Chloe gave a very unladylike snort at the thought of her being with Clark. She wanted to allay Lex’s fears about that occurring between the two of them, but she also wanted to be honest. “The only thing that I can tell you is that I will never be with Clark.” Chloe thought that that was the best place to start. Lex’s double had been pretty close to out of his mind over that. So, she theorized that her Lex had been disturbed greatly by that as well.

“I also think that by us actually seeing how,” she searched for the right word for what the situation was between them in the alternate dimension, but could come up with just one. “Ugly, horrible and agonizingly painful it could get between us will help us to not let that happen.” She looked over towards the bed and noticed that it was gone. They were in a room devoid of anything save the windowsill that Lex was currently leaning against.

Now, it was time to admit the things that she didn’t want to. But, she knew that honesty between them was crucial at this point. “But,” she said, softly, looking over to where their alter egos had been a few minutes ago, “I understand how she got to that point. No matter how much I want to deny it or push it away, that was me over there.”
Chloe crossed her arms over her chest as she continued to stare into the blackness. She shook her head and said, “I know why she wanted the other you to leave. After what happened, the only thing she had left was her pride. Pride in the fact that she was strong enough to make the decision to keep you out of her life. It was the only thing she had control over where you were involved.” Chloe looked over at Lex before speaking again.

“I don’t like feeling weak and helpless, Lex. And, I know that that was what she was feeling. I’m not excusing what she,” she shook her head again, “what I did, but I figured an explanation is necessary.” She left the implied statement that loving Lex, when he didn’t return the sentiment, sometimes made her feel both of the aforementioned emotions unsaid. Lex was smart, he’d figure it out.

Lex had listened to her, keeping silent and taking in everything she said and did with a keen eye. Chloe had given him an answer to his earlier question, why she would do something as self-destructing and unreasonable. He bit the inside of his cheek and tried to figure out where that left him. It wasn't as if he could just consciously flip a switch and change his feelings and as long as he didn't feel the same for Chloe, she would always hurt. He guessed this is why he pulled back from her, because that was his first impulse, even now when he thought about the fact that his mere presence was already causing her distress. However, the powers had shown him where that would lead, so it wasn't an option. But what could he do?

“I understand that you feel this way, but that's just how emotions are, Chloe. Some of us are just better at pushing them away, but believe me, if I could jump over my shadow and be more like you, I'd do it.”

He got up from the window sill and walked around to face her. “Always being controlled and distanced isn't all it's cracked up to be, really.” He smirked as he leaned down towards her, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial tone. “It's hell on personal relationships.”

Not even aware that she was doing it, Chloe nodded at his statement. She had seen it first hand. But she did think that it was better than the way that she was, well, at least right now, she did. Being so open got you clobbered nine times out of ten. And the one with the battering ram could tell just by the look on your face.

She knew that Lex was trying to lighten the situation, but she felt like they were talking in circles right now. They had already established how they felt and what their emotional constitutions were, so there was little point to discussing it. “I wish I was more like you sometimes,” she murmured. She didn’t know if Lex could hear her, but it didn’t matter.

Lex didn't acknowledge her statement beyond a simple nod and just reached out to brush a hand over her arm, trying to give her comfort and assuring himself that she was not going to start pulling back from him, now that she'd confessed as much.

Giving Chloe time to regain her composure, he let his gaze roam around the room, his mouth forming a silent 'oh' as he caught sight of something that hadn't been there before. Doors, two of them. One was at the wall to his right, the other in the corner of the joining wall in front of him. Both doors were wide open, and the rooms behind them lit up, so that they could actually see for a change what lay behind them.

He cleared his throat, “Chloe, look,” and jerked his chin in the direction of the doors.

Chloe groaned and muttered, “Fucking doors, what a surprise.” She trudged over to them, making sure not to get too close. Who knew, maybe one of these times they’d just be sucked in. She peered through the first one as Lex wandered over to the other one.

She could see that it was an entryway to an apartment. Chloe noticed one of the framed posters on the walls and her eyes widened. Getting closer to the door, she was sure to keep her feet from crossing the threshold. However, she did pop her head into the apartment. It confirmed her suspicions.

“Lex,” she said as she looked over towards him. He was also halfway through the door, checking things out. “This is Lois’s apartment in Metropolis. Whatcha got over there?”

Lex pulled his head back into the room, stepping away from the door. “It's a perfect replica of my apartment outside Smallville, seems there really isn't anything they don't know in this place.” He walked up to Chloe to take a look into the other room, “Nice place, Lois is your cousin, right?” he'd never met the woman personally, but Chloe had told him about her while they'd been working on Lionel's case back in the day.

He had no clue why the powers had chosen those two places, but both of them had a bed and Lex for one was starting to feel the days events taking their toll on him and a solid eight hours sleep sounded tempting right about now.

Chloe didn't look so fresh either, her body slumped and dark circles framing her eyes. He took a step back, to stand between the doors, keeping his eyes locked with Chloe's. “So, your apartment or mine?”

A. Lois’s place
B. Lex’s place

[asharnanae]

LEX"S PLACE!!!!!!!

and may I say that was the damnedest chappy I have ever read!!! The aruments were fantastic and the bit whn they found each other again was perfect. oh this is far, far to good to be true sometimes! :worship2: :blinkkiss: :chlexsign1:

[newbatgirl]

B. Lex's Place. I want to see what it looks like. Besides, if they go to Lois' isn't there a chance they will be interrupted? :biggrin:

Thanks for the Supersized update. It was sweet how happy Lex was to see *his* Chloe!

[Blackberry]

Lex's place

[Queen Of Tact]

B, I think they need to go to Lex place... Maybe he will feel he is able to open up more someplace he feels safe... And if Lex doesn't start working out his feels soon I'm just going to have to kill him... What is it going to take for him to relize what he feels for Chloe...

Please please update more as soon as u can....


CC

[kezz]

Definitely B. The last thing Lex needs to see is an older, brunette version of Chloe. I'm pretty sure he loves Chloe but he thinks she too young, blonde, short, whatever. So seeing her remade in the image of his usual type is not going to help.

Thank you for the grande update :wub: I know I'm greedy, but there will be another one soon right? PLEASE? :worship2:

Kezz.....x.x.x.

[hfce]

Wow you weren't kidding that was long but good. :lol: I loved the reunion that was :wub: but Lex is getting on my damn nerves. You are falling for her jackass. You love her in fact. Sheesh. :rolleyes:


I pick B that way they wont get interrupted. ;)


Hope :D

[buffiy18]

I pick B. I agree with Queen, maybe being in a familiar place will help Lex realize what he has so far failed to see.

This was a great chapter. Thank you for the extra long update. I loved it all. Sorry I can't be more specific.

Looking for your next update... :chlexsign3: :chlexsign3:

[tiger04]

B. Lex's apartment sounds good. But i do have to question where lois fits in this

AT

[Val]

“Did it ever occur to you that that room used to be mine and then you started shoving your dusty, megalomaniacal books up on the shelves in some subconscious desire to conquer a room that didn’t have your priceless treasures in it?”

Just wanted to point out that as corny as it sounds, that room seemed to be the place Chloe and Jacob spent a lot of time together and to that Lex? His treasures! :blush:

“So, your apartment or mine?”
Am I the only one that saw the innuendo in there?

Anyway I loved that chapter. Chloe's double and both Lexes almost made me cry . Thank you very much. I'm just glad the original Chloe wasn't so shaken by the whole Clark thing. I really loved the reunion and love how Lex is unconciously pulling her closer. Literally.

As for the choice, I'd love to see Lois. But I guess they're both really tired and it'd be good for Lex to be somewhere he is familiar with and doesn't have all the ghosts the mansion has, so I want you to bring Lois in later! But for now, I go with B.

[sydsvaughn]

I've gotta go with "B" .. even though I know I'll probably regret it with you two! :)

Can't wait to read more!

SaraC

[sylvia]

Lex's place!! So they can... you know, take a nap! ;) Okay, so there's a bed in Lois' flat too, but it just wouldn't be the same...

Oh and thanks for those wonderful updates. I love the way you explored both of their reactions to not only the awful Clark/Chloe/Lex future scene, but also to them being reunited. It was a great read, as usual, and a lot of wonderful veiled Chlexy conversation.

[nokchan]

Well I'm in for Lexs Place. I think it's better for both to be at a place Lexs knows. He is more himself if he know the situation and the places where he is.

So Lexs

@Val: No you aren't. I'd laughed very hard there because I know how hard the decision of "yours or mine" can be.

[lexchloe]

Great update, it was the perfect birthday present!!! I'm gonna go with B Lex's place.

[autumngold]

B!! Please!! I don't want Lex to be distracted by another woman!! :chlexsign4:

[scifichick774]

First of all, thank you for the mega long update. That was really awesome of you guys. The angst is killing me, but I'm a sucker for it. Which is why you'll understand that I'm voting for B.

[Béatrice]

I choose B-Lex's apartment.

[S.Ann Smith]

Lex's apartment all the way!

[Kit Merlot]

First, the CHlark was really gross, but it did show an interesting aspect of Chloe and Lex's relationship :biggrin:

I think they should go with A Lois' apartment. Just for a change of pace!

[je_m'adore]

:worship2: i will not get my hopes up...

B! Lex's place!!!

[chril1]

B!

love lea
xxx

[BlueSabby]

Sabby: A/N: This one is again a big update, but might leave you...let's say a little abruptly. We do not take responsibility for whiplash caused by the end of this chapter. Have fun.

Blue: A/N: More talky talky from us. We've really got to stop with that.....An interesting twist awaits thee....enjoy.

Outwardly, Chloe showed no reaction to the words, and their implications, that Lex chose. She knew that he didn’t mean anything by it. Part of her wished that he wouldn’t speak to her in that manner. Then again, if he was being playful it meant that he wasn’t being weird. Which was a plus.

She looked between the two doors. If the went to Lois’ and she could see them, badness would ensue. She knew who Lex was and would be merciless with him. At least if Lex ran into another Lex, she was fairly certain that nothing too bad could happen.

After another moment of weighing their options, Chloe said, “Yours. No offense, I don’t think that you’re prepared enough to meet her just yet.”

Lex’s brow rose in question, but he let it slide. At least he'd be on familiar turf and there wouldn't be anyone other than himself to deal with, if even that.

“Alright, come on. If we're lucky we'll get a few hours sleep before the next disaster hits,” he commented as he motioned for Chloe to step through the door into his apartment.

As soon as she crossed the threshold, her natural curiosity tried to take ahold of her. She forcibly curtailed the urge to wander through the rest of the apartment, mostly because, at the mention of sleep, her body energy dropped by at least 80%.

The last time she had slept had been at the farmhouse, and it felt like she had lived another 20 years between then and now. Lex’s bedroom was similar to the one in the Manor with the muted tones. However, there were a few touches that spoke volumes about the guests that he brought back to his apartment.

“Nice place.” Chloe didn’t have to lie because she could tell, even from one room, that the apartment was tastefully decorated. Even though the apartment wasn’t located in downtown Metropolis, Chloe could tell that Lex had found the nicest place that he could. They were obviously on the top floor of the building. No doubt in the “Penthouse” apartment, as the realtor was likely to call it. She wondered if Lex had laughed when comparing it to his place in Metropolis.

There was a door opposite the window, the bathroom Chloe assumed, and she turned to Lex and said, “Is there another bathroom with a shower that I can use?” She wanted to give Lex his space. He’d most likely want to shower and pass out on the four poster that took up most of the room.

Lex shook his head as he opened the door Chloe had been looking at. “No, but you can go first, I'll see if they stocked up the fridge, so take your time.”

It wasn't the most spacious apartment and compared to Lex's usual standards it was downright ridiculous, but he had to admit it was a nice place.

Lex felt comfortable here and had even put a few personal items into this apartment. He didn't get to use it often, but sometimes, when the mansion got too overbearing or he needed to get away for a while, he'd come to spend a weekend pretending he was just a normal guy, not Lex Luthor, CEO of Luthorcorp.

“Towels should be in the closet next to the sink,” he added before making his way out of the room and to the kitchen.

Normally, Chloe would protest and insist that Lex go first. However, they weren’t in normal circumstances. She felt filthy and wanted nothing more than a nice, hot, long shower followed by hours on unconsciousness. Besides, she doubted arguing with Lex would get her anywhere. Especially since he was no longer in the room.

“Thanks,” she called after him. She worried about what she would change into later. Now, she was too focused on getting clean…and finding shampoo.

She let out an actual sigh of relief when the spray started to hit her skin. Most of the products in the bathroom were in French, but Chloe had enough rudimentary instruction in the language to ensure that she wasn’t washing her body with antifungal ointment. She hadn’t found any shampoo but just improvised with the shower gel.

Mindful that Lex was waiting for his turn, she quickly bathed and then wrapped her body in one of the aforementioned towels. She took her clothes off of the toilet and then walked back into Lex’s bedroom. There was no sight of the man himself, but Chloe heard a clatter coming from what she assumed was the kitchen. Placing her folded up garments on a chair, she padded into the kitchen.

Lex was turned away from her, clearly searching for something in one of the drawers. And, having a hard time of it if the soft curses coming out of his mouth were any indication. “Your turn,” she said after wiping the smile off her face.

Lex turned away from the cupboards to answer her, but the answer got lost on the way from brain to mouth at the sight of a slightly wet Chloe in nothing but a fluffy towel that she held closed over her chest.

He pasted on a smirk and tried again. “I tried to make some sandwiches but the powers took the freedom to rearrange my kitchen. Maybe you'll be able to find the French seasoning?”

He tried to keep his eyes on her face as he walked up to her. Inappropriate memories of his stint with the other Chloe while he'd been trapped in his alter ego's body were swimming through his mind and he tried to will them away, seeing Chloe's questioning look.

“I'll lay out some clothes for you first.”

If she kept running around like that, he couldn't be held responsible for his actions. The physical attraction had definitely become harder to ignore. But he wasn't going to go there. It wasn't fair to Chloe.

“Ok, Lex, I’ll look,” Chloe said to his retreating back. Her face was drawn together as she tried to puzzle out his strange reaction to her. She looked down, horrified and convinced that her towel had slipped loose at the worst place possible.

She checked numerous times, but she was all covered up. Shaking her head, she wrote off his strange behavior as being in her mind. After checking the fridge, she found the lost condiment placed up on a shelf. It took a few swipes and her standing on her tippy toes, but she was able to get the item without dropping it and making a mess of the kitchen.

Well, more of a mess. She was dripping water over the floor but that really couldn’t be helped. After making triply sure that the towel wasn’t going to up and slide off her body as she worked, Chloe busied herself with putting together the sandwiches. Her stomach rumbled and it struck her that she couldn’t remember the last time that she had ate. Maybe right before the gremlin struck.

Chloe turned around, prepared to use the Sullivan Paging System to get Lex’s attention. It namely consisted of yelling someone’s name as loud as possible until they showed up. Her mouth closed, though, when she saw that Lex was standing in the doorway.

Lex had meant to only grab some clothes for her and be back in the bathroom in a matter of minutes, but as he'd come back into the kitchen, he'd gotten immersed in watching Chloe finding her way around his kitchen and preparing food.

He'd barely suppressed a groan when she'd licked some mayonnaise off her fingers and Lex was sure the stretching she did to reach something on the top shelf would have been his undoing if he hadn't averted his eyes.

He cursed the powers for putting him in his alter ego's body. Surely that was what was causing him to react like an inexperienced schoolboy, getting turned on just from seeing Chloe walk around in a towel. He'd seen more women naked than Hugh Hefner....well maybe not more, but a great deal at any rate and he did not let his body rule him.

Without thinking, he'd leaned against the doorway, completely forgetting to announce his presence to Chloe while he was lost in his own thoughts.

When she suddenly turned around, her mouth opening to say something, or possibly yell for him, he was glad for years of training to keep a nonchalant facade.

“I found a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt, it'll have to do,” he offered matter-of-factly, holding up the clothes in question.

Chloe wondered if it would be undignified to scarf down her food clad only in a towel, Martha Stewart be damned. When Lex held out the clothes to her, she guessed that he would be more comfortable if she were wearing something. They didn’t need a wardrobe malfunction making things awkward between them.
Honestly, even after all of the bad, uncomfortable, horrid things that they had seen and experienced, she still felt at ease around Lex. It really was a miracle and a testament to the man standing before her that she didn’t want to run and hide in a corner.

She took the clothes from his hands. “Thanks, I appreciate it.” She paused, wondering if she could get away with her next comment. “I’d be quite content to stay here…if only there was some shampoo.”

In a perfect world, she would have been able to breeze past him after the comment. But, as usual, Lex couldn’t let her pass with the last word. Not that she would have been any different.

“Usually I don't entertain guests in this place, so there's no reason for me to have any,” he explained, leaving it at that as he went to pick up the plates and put them on the kitchen table.

Chloe blinked. It wasn’t his usual witty retort. More to the point and, well, honest. Yes, the world had been turned all around that much was obvious when Lex didn’t even bother to make her work for an answer devoid of guile.

“I’m going to go and change so you can get clean,” she said before slipping out of the kitchen. When she was barely through the door, she took off the towel and quickly slipped into the clothes that Lex had given her. They were, obviously, too big and she had to roll up the waist of the pants to keep them up…but they were blissfully comfy, none the less. She put the towel in the hamper that was in the bathroom and then returned to the kitchen.

“Bathroom’s all yours.” She took the utensils out of his hands and said, “I’ll take care of the rest here.”

Lex nodded and strode past her and back through the bedroom into the bath. This shower was going to be quick. And cold. He undressed quickly and threw his clothes in the hamper, then stepped under the shower, turning it on full blast.

What the fuck was wrong with him? Yes, the moments he'd shared his other self's experience with Chloe had been amazing, but it hadn't been right. He didn't feel the same way for the real Chloe and just because he was attracted to her, it didn't mean anything.

He could end up hurting her if he let on that his physical attraction to her had grown. Lord knew women mistook the fact that a man wanted to sleep with them for deeper feelings and he would not be an asshole and seduce her and then lead her on when he didn't feel more for her. He'd just gotten her back, there was no way Lex would do anything to push her away again.

When he'd finished his shower, he dried himself roughly, then went back into the bedroom, throwing on a pair of comfortable boxers and a long sleeve shirt. He didn't have another pair of sweats, so he contemplated putting on some dress slacks, but dismissed the thought as impractical and idiotic. Plus, this choice of clothing would give him an incentive to control his reactions to Chloe's attire.

Lex stepped back into the kitchen to find Chloe already sitting in front of her sandwich, taking a drink from her coke.

“It seems they're really giving us a time out for the moment,” he said as he sat down across from her at the table.

At that moment, Chloe wanted to bite Lex more than she ever had in the past. Not a big one, just a little nip. Maybe on his neck. It was ridiculous, really, that seeing Lex dressed so simply would cause such a reaction. But, she had long ago stopped trying to rationalize her reactions to the man. Mostly because it would mean a trip to the shrink.

Careful to not choke on her drink and stare at his legs, she replied, “Yeah, but I wonder how long it’ll last. I half expect Mothra to come crashing through the window.” She gestured to the window in the living room. Then continued to stare at it, willing her comment not to come true.

Lex looked up from his plate with an amused look, waiting for Chloe's gaze to come back to him before he answered. “You should know better than to give them any ideas. But I doubt that being attacked by a giant moth would help us along, anyway.” He finished his sandwich in a few bites, leaning back with his glass to watch Chloe.

He'd gotten his hormones somewhat under control again and was now focusing on the light banter, keeping his thoughts in safe territory and away from bath towels and a wet Chloe. “I'm going to get my pillow in a minute. There's only one bed in this apartment, so I'll take the couch for tonight,” he commented before taking a swig of his drink.

She glanced over at the aforementioned couch. It was one of those chic Japanese stylized deals. It looked very expensive and shiny but highly uncomfortable. Chloe looked over at Lex and then back at the couch. She didn’t see how the man would possibly fit on the damn thing.

At this point, she didn’t want to push him into something he wasn’t comfortable with, but she couldn’t imagine him getting any sleep on the damn thing. And, she didn’t want to deal with CrankyLex in the morning.

Picking up her napkin, she decided that she’d leave the choice up to him. Shrugging one shoulder and wiping away some errant crumbs from her lips, she said, “If you want. I don’t think it’s necessary. Your bed is big enough for four people so I don’t see a problem with us sharing it.”

Then again, he might think that it was some sort of ploy on her part. She added, with a smile, “You won’t have to worry about putting out, I’ll be a perfect gentlewoman.”

Lex almost snorted into his drink, but was able to cover it up with a cough. “I'm not concerned about that, Chloe. I merely thought that you'd feel more comfortable if you had the room to yourself. Etiquette and all that,” he smirked.

Not withstanding the fact that it might get a little complicated on his side to share a bed with Chloe and keep his hands to himself. He was bone tired, but that didn't mean he was absolutely immune if she just so much as shimmied against him in the right way. Then again, this was non sense. The chance of them having contact with the size of the bed being what it was, was slim to none. Lex contemplated his options. He probably wouldn't get any sleep either way, being that he wasn't used to sharing his bed for actual sleep. The couch, wasn't too tempting either. It might look pretty but was not meant to accommodate the full length of a grown person. At least in the bed he'd be comfortable for the night. In the end it was up to Chloe if she really was alright with the fact that they'd be sharing a bed. “It's up to you, though. If you really don't mind sharing the space...” he trailed off.

“I offered, didn’t I?” She smiled over at him and then stood up. Chloe picked up her plate and then Lex’s, bringing it over to the sink. “I’m sure that whatever tomorrow brings will try us, as is usual in this place, and I don’t want to make things worse by adding the exhaustion factor.”

Even though there was a state of the art washing machine, she grabbed one of the sponges and flipped the sink on. “If you’re out here, you won’t sleep. If I’m rolling around in your bed worrying about your lack of sleep, I won’t get any of my own.”

Lex got up as well, bringing the glasses to the sink and leaning against the counter next to Chloe. “Well, we can't have that, can we?” Taking the finished plate from her hand he found the dishtowel where it was supposed to be in the cupboard under the sink and started drying.

Chloe chuckled, washing out their glasses and said, “Nope, me without my beauty rest is not a pretty sight. Or something that’s pleasant to deal with the next morning.” Though, Lex had seen her at her worst and was still standing next to her. Well, not that he had any say in that. She wordlessly passed one glass and then the other to Lex after he was done with the plates.

As he put the glassware back in the correct spot, Chloe made her way to the bedroom. She figured that this was the best way to avoid a conversation about the logistics of them sleeping together.

He followed her into the bedroom, leaving her to choose the side of the bed, and flipped off the light. When he finally got to settle in a soft groan slipped from his mouth. It felt like the first time in ages that he got to lie down in a real bed and one that had exactly the right mattress on top of that. Maybe he'd be able to rest his eyes for a while after all. If Chloe didn't shift too much, that was. He settled comfortably with one arm behind his head, looking over at her from the corner of his eyes. She'd made a half cocoon out of her side of the blankets, disappearing under them to the tip of her nose. The adorable picture made him involuntarily chuckle, “Goodnight, Chloe.”

Distantly, Chloe knew that Lex was laughing at something she had done. And, she should feel outraged and insulted by it, of course. But, for now, she was too tired to care. “Night, Lex,” she murmured. She was proud that she was able to get that out before falling asleep.


The first thing Lex became aware of the next morning was that he'd actually slept for a few hours. His arms were full of something warm and solid and his nose was buried in...hair? Taking a deep breath, memory came back with a woosh. Chloe. They'd shared the bed last night because his couch was more of a torture equipment than an actual piece of furniture.

His eyes stayed closed as he pulled Chloe a little closer against him, relishing the scent and warmth drifting towards him. This was perfect. His body felt comfortable, relaxed and warm, Chloe was still sleeping, wiggling against him in a most delicious way. He pressed a kiss against her neck, causing her to slowly wake up as well and turn around to face him, her eyes slowly drifting open to look up, confused and tired

“God, I love you,” he sighed.

His eyes opened wider at the same time as Chloe's did, while his mind was screaming at him what the fuck he thought he was doing? 'Love her? I don't. Well I don't think I do'. He'd went to bed last night being attracted to Chloe and caring for her as a friend, and now...

Chloe had already been coming awake, trying to move into a more comfortable position when she realized what was hindering her movements. Lex’s body was draped all over hers, their lower limbs entangled.

She was just about to move away when she felt him kiss her neck. Her body came instantly awake and she blinked rapidly, clearing her vision and her mind before turning around to face him. Lex was clearly confused, thinking that she was someone else.

Her confusion had deepened when she saw the look that Lex was giving her. He was practically beaming down at her and she wondered if he had gotten into some of the pharmaceuticals during the night.

The theory became cemented when he told Chloe he loved her. In addition to her heart actually stopping, her throat dried up and her brain started to go in overdrive. After a beat, she sat up against the headboard and tried not to screech her next word. “What?”

Something was amiss, not just with Lex, but with her as well. For the past, well, ever it seemed, she had been waiting to hear that from Lex. However, now that he had said it, she just felt confused and kind of guilty, too.

“I...,” Lex was confused, about his own words as well as the feelings that cursed through him at Chloe's shocked reaction. In mind he knew that it shouldn't affect him that much, but it did. “I didn't mean to say that,” he murmured. “I'm just,” he shook his head, pulling away and getting out of the bed.

Chloe's reaction was odd, though. Wasn't she supposed to be in love with him? Shouldn't she react....well positively?

Lex paced across the room, vacillating between muttering to himself and looking over at her curiously. No doubt trying to figure out what in the hell was going on with him. Which was exactly what Chloe was doing, as well. Well, that was what she was doing when she wasn’t trying to figure out why in the hell she wasn’t launching herself in his direction and returning the sentiment.

‘Because you don’t love him.’ Chloe shook her head at the thought, but when she tried to think about what she felt for Lex, she just got more confused. Looking up at him, she knew that she was attracted to him. It had been there since their first meeting. She also respected and cared for him. But, other than that, she wasn’t sure how deep her feelings went.

Now, she was more worried about Lex than herself. Chloe knew that Lex must have felt a little hurt when she had reacted in the way that she did. “Lex,” she said, but he either didn’t hear her or was ignoring her. “Lex,” she said, more forcefully, “I’m sorry for…” but, she didn’t know what she was apologizing for, exactly.
“I’m sorry for this. But, would you sit still for a moment, you’re making me dizzy.” She kicked the blankets away from her and reached over to where Lex was passing by, grabbing his hand.

He stopped dead in his tracks, staring at Chloe's hand holding his. Lex hadn't even been aware that he'd been pacing the room like a caged animal, too absorbed in his own thoughts. Just the small touch gave him a weird feeling in his stomach, like something fluttering behind his muscles.

“I'm sorry, this is just too odd, I know for a fact that I didn't go to bed yesterday feeling this, and today I wake up and,” he took his hand away putting a little distance between them, still trying to get a grip on his rampant emotions. “It's odd,” he said again, running a hand over the back of his head.

Chloe felt that the best thing would be to show Lex that she was there for him. But, she didn’t want to come out and just say that. It might sound false and kind of hokey, as well. Maintaining the contact between them was the only way that she could show Lex that she cared…without actually telling him so.

What was also weird was the fact that Lex’s words didn’t sting. He was telling her that he didn’t love her yesterday, that it was odd that he did now….but it didn’t kill her like it used to. Maybe the funhouse was finally working. Maybe she was finally accepting the truth. But, she couldn’t dwell on herself right now. Lex was going through something and she wouldn’t let her own lack of feelings influence the way that she reacted to him.

“I know, Lex,” she said soothingly while approaching him slowly. He took one step away from her and then stopped. That was odd. Lex had never pulled away from her. Then again, there was nothing normal about the situation they found themselves in now. “We’ll figure out what’s going on.”

Chloe wasn’t going to let this damn place mess with Lex’s emotions anymore than it already had. Especially if the emotions dealt with her.

Lex shook his head, trying to figure out what happened. His own reactions were starting to worry him, it was more than just his feelings that were different. Chloe's close proximity and her words were affecting him more than ever and making him nervous, almost to the point of fidgety. “I'll deal with it, let's just have some coffee, then we'll figure this out.”

It was more than a little unsettling to not have a tight reign on his emotions. Lex strode out of the bedroom and headed straight for the kitchen and the coffee machine on the counter.

What the hell had happened? He mechanically started preparing the coffee and tried to get his mind working around the butterflies and the thrice damned tight feeling that Chloe's words had caused in his chest.

Chloe knew something was very wrong when Lex practically ran out of the room. She knew that he was running away from her and the now familiar nibble of guilt wormed its way into her system. But, she felt how she felt, she couldn’t do anything about it.

‘Not that you know how you really feel.’

She shook her head as she quickly remade the bed. Of course she knew how she felt about Lex. They were close and he was the only other human being on the face of the planet that she even came close to trusting, she could talk to him and looked forward to seeing him….but that didn’t mean that she loved him. Love was complicated and messy and she wasn’t about to deal with that whole rollercoaster of emotions again. Especially if her actions would come back to hurt Lex in the end. She couldn’t take that chance, he meant too much to her to totally fuck things up.

When she walked into the kitchen, it appeared as if Lex was lost in his thoughts and she tried not to startle him when she spoke. “So…” she didn’t know how to get rid of the awkwardness that his admission had created between them.

Chloe thought it would be wrong to not address the issue, even if it caused Lex more pain. He needed to know that she did care, just not in that way. But, it had to be done carefully.

“Lex,” she said, walking over to him and placing one of her hands on his shoulder, “you know that I care about you. But, I don’t feel that way about you. I’m sorry.” Even though he tried to mask it, he was trying to be strong in front of her, she could see the flicker of pain in his eyes and the way his face flinched, as if struck.

Lex clenched his jaw against the emotions that assaulted him at Chloe's words once again. It felt like someone had rammed a knife in his heart and twisted it around clockwise, just for kicks. He wasn't used to this kind of torment, he'd spent years getting his emotions under control and keeping them at an acceptable level. Now it felt as if he was fighting a lost battle.

He couldn't even explain why exactly it hurt so much. All he 'knew' was that he loved Chloe, completely and it seemed for a long time and she didn't return the sentiment, at least, not anymore.

He unclenched his jaw and stared at the coffeepot, then slowly lifted his eyes to the cupboard above, taking out two mugs.

“It's alright, Chloe. Believe me, I understand. Let's just forget I said anything, ok?”

He poured coffee into the cups, preparing Chloe's first, without thinking about it, then taking his own to the kitchen table to sit down.

Still trying to regain control, he took a sip of the scalding hot liquid, trying to ignore Chloe's presence which was not easy. She'd followed him to the table and sat down directly across from him, their legs almost touching under the table. He could see her hands cradling the coffee cup and if he lifted his eyes just an inch he'd be face to face with her chest in nothing more than an old t-shirt of his.

Arousal started to mix with the misery caused by this entire situation, giving him another kick where it hurt

Chloe should have known that his damn stubbornness wouldn’t allow them to discuss this. But, she understood that he didn’t want to rehash something that was obviously painful for him to do. So, she would respect his wishes. They’d have to deal with it eventually, but for now she’d just let it lie.

“Ok, Lex,” she said. She decided that she wouldn’t coddle him anymore. He deserved better than that. She could feel him watching her carefully, but she ignored it to the best of her ability. Chloe took a sip of her coffee before speaking again.

“Do you have any theories as to what’s going on?” At least they could put this in a safe arena. They always seemed to work things out very well together and it would give Lex something to think about instead of his feelings for her.

What did she think he was trying all this time while she kept telling him over and over that she didn't have feelings for him? Lex took a deep breath, trying to keep control. “Well the best bet is that it has something to do with the powers running this place.”

Who else would it be? Lex was sure that he didn't just develop feelings like these over night, without any kind of warning sign. And it definitely wasn't normal for Chloe to be in love with him for years and then just wake up one morning and find them completely gone.

Lex swallowed hard as another pang of hurt struck him at that thought. It wasn't her fault, she couldn't just decide what she felt or didn't, she was trying to be nice about it and throwing a fit would not help the situation at all. He just had to accept that things were as they were and try to move on, however much it killed him.

Taking another deep breath, he willed himself to think logically. Yesterday, Chloe had loved him. That thought brought an unexpected flare of happiness with it and made him feel almost giddy. Forging on he continued. But he hadn't been sure. He'd been attracted to her. God Chloe was gorgeous, and the way she'd looked in the towel, roaming around the kitchen....Lex would not allow himself to get distracted, there was a point. Something was niggling at the back of his mind, trying to shove through this muddled mess of emotions running amuck inside him. So yesterday, Chloe's feeling had been his and he himself had been...

“Chloe, what exactly is it that you feel for me, right now?”

The wheels in Lex’s head were turning, that was for sure. And, she would follow down whatever path he was leading her on. She trusted his instincts. However, the question that he had asked wasn’t a simple one.

“I don’t love you.” Chloe knew that it was blunt, but it was the truth…she was sure of it…mostly… Soldiering on, she wanted to take some of the harshness out of her statement. She reached across the table, the action causing her legs to bump into Lex’s, and placed her hand on top of his.

Lex pulled his hand away getting impatient. The increased physical contact wasn't exactly helping either. “Chloe, don't tell me what you don't feel, we've established that.” He got up from the table and started pacing, “Tell me what it is you do feel. Anything, even if you think it insignificant.”

“I care about you, Lex. I respect you more than anyone else.” She paused, trying to get her thoughts, brain and emotions in order so she could give him the best answer possible. “You know that I find you very attractive.” Chloe was sure to look him in the eyes when she said that. “But, it can’t go beyond that. Your friendship is the most important thing to me and I would never do anything to jeopardize that. I know it hurts and I regret that it does, but I don’t want to lead you on. I don’t want you to wait around, hoping that my feelings will change. You deserve more than that.”

Chloe looked down at the table. It was true, she could never give Lex all that he deserved from her. Something inside of her was broken, it had been for a long time and she wouldn’t let her shortcomings burn Lex. “You deserve more than me.”

It was something that she had felt for a long time where he was concerned and she felt as if she was being freed by finally putting it into words.

Lex nodded along with Chloe's answer, taking another sip of his coffee as he settled back down on the table. He was putting the pieces together. Some things didn't sound too familiar, but made sense in the bigger picture. Those were the things that he'd never admit to himself, let alone anyone else. He knew what was going on now.

“Ok. Let me tell you my perspective now, and please hear me out.” He took another sip, waiting for Chloe to agree.

She nodded at him. “Of course, Lex. And, I promise not to interrupt you, even once.” Chloe gave him a small smile, hoping to alleviate at least a little of the tension that was in the room. She didn’t want things between the two of them to fall apart because of this.

Lex smirked, doubting that she'd stick to that promise for long, but hoping he could get to the point before she interrupted.

“I love you,” He paused, needing a moment to adjust to the feelings that washed over him with that admission he hadn't made in a long time. Usually it wouldn't have been easy for him to say those words at the best of times but the situation required it and his own emotions backed them up completely. “It feels like I've loved you for a long time and I can't even pinpoint the moment it started, at the same time I consciously know it wasn't the same yesterday. Every time you look at me, touch me or just stand close to me, you send me on a rollercoaster of emotions and I can't do anything about it, can't control it and it's driving me insane. I understand that you don't feel the same, but at the same time it feels like something inside is breaking every time you confirm that.”

So far, Chloe had been listening without saying a word, probably due to the fact that he didn't leave her much time to do it. There was only one more thing left to say.

“Does any of this sound familiar to you?” he asked blandly.

Hearing Lex tell her he loved her again made her feel horrible. Chloe wanted to say something but she had made a promise and she kept her word as Lex kept speaking. As he explained what he felt, confusion rolled over Chloe. She already knew of all that, but she had convinced herself that what he felt couldn’t be the real thing. He would get over her, she knew that. It may take some time, but eventually he’d see that she was right about his feelings.

Still, there was some part of her that was now doubting all of that. If his feelings had endured over the years and through this whole mess in the funhouse, didn’t that mean that they were real? She cut off that part of her brain before it got too far.

The question that Lex had voiced brought her back to the task at hand. And, it was an excellent question. It sounded very familiar and Chloe closed her eyes when the answer came to her.

“You’re me and I’m you,” she almost whispered.

She got up from the table and started to pace a little. After a moment, she slapped her hand against the table hard. Chloe did it again, feeling a little better.

Of all of the unfair humiliations for this place to come up with, it had to show Lex just what she felt for him.

“This is so embarrassing,” she muttered.

Lex had raised his eyebrow at her outburst, shifting back from the table. He ran a hand over the back of his head and got up as well, stopping Chloe from pacing. The first thought that had went through his brain at her exclamation was 'No shit,' but he tried to say something a little more constructive. “I know, but there's nothing we can do about it for the moment, I think. It's not like we didn't know before where the other stood.” He leaned back against his chair, trying to be rational about it. This was considerably harder taking into account the myriad of emotions he was going through at every point. Lex had no idea how Chloe could cope with this on a daily basis without going completely insane. “Try to think of it as getting an inside scoop.”

Not that it sat really well with him that Chloe was now getting firsthand knowledge of his emotions. When she remembered them later, it might end up hurting her more.

Lex was surprised to find that the feeling he got from that thought was the exact same he'd had the day before. A knot formed in his stomach, making him feel like an asshole for being the cause of Chloe's pain.

Willing himself once more to keep in control, Lex picked up his coffee cup. “Maybe we'll return to our own emotional state if we leave the apartment? They didn't do anything permanent to us yet, so one way or the other it's gonna be ok.” Lex was trying to convince himself as much as Chloe, and he knew it.

As Lex spoke, Chloe nodded along with him…even if she didn’t agree. She already knew that Lex didn’t love her. She didn’t need to feel the way that he did. When they got switched back, Lex would look at her with even more pity than he already did.

Chloe didn’t need the inside scoop to his feelings on that issue. She’d rather not know, that way she could hope that his emotions were different from what he told her they were. Her brow furrowed at that thought. If she was feeling what he felt for her, that meant…

“Lex,” she asked, ignoring his suggestion that they leave the apartment, “you’re totally confused how you feel about me.” It wasn’t an accusation, more of a statement. “So,” she paused, they had already discussed this enough already. Sighing, she ran a hand through her hair. “Forget it,” she mumbled. Chloe wasn’t certain she wanted to travel down that road.

‘I’ll do what I want.’ Chloe wasn’t about to duck a perfect opportunity to confront Lex with his feelings when she was in such a position to know exactly what they were. She wasn’t sure if it was Lex’s stubbornness, hers, or a combination of the two that made her charge ahead, with little heed of what the consequences would be.

Making sure to look at him directly, she said, “I’ve changed my mind. I don’t want to forget it.” She stalked over to him. “You have no idea what you feel for me. Every time you think that you might feel something deeper for me, you change your train of thought. You won’t even allow yourself to think that you might love me.”

Lex bit the inside of his cheek, vowing revenge to the powers that be. There was no getting out of this now, Chloe had her resolve face on. Her emotions inside him stirred once more and shot a spark of arousal through his system at seeing her chest pushed out, hands stemmed on her hips as she looked him dead in the eye.

He was starting to lose his train of thought completely, when Chloe harshly cleared her throat, glaring a little more obviously. How was he supposed to explain this now.

“I'm not confused, I know very well what I feel, just because there are some aspects that I haven't quite worked out yet, doesn't mean that my feelings for you aren't the ones I told you,” he finally answered.

Chloe shook her head, not really believing the lame answer that Lex was giving her, especially under the circumstances. It was like he knew that she felt his feelings, but didn’t realize what that meant.

“Some aspects about your feelings?” She snorted. “You’ve got to be joking me.” She walked away from him, needing the space so she didn’t throttle him. Calmly, she got her thoughts together. “When I look at you, I do feel bad that I don’t love you. I feel that we’re friends, too. But, there’s something else under the surface, Lex.” She fixed him with a look. “And, any time I get even close to it, it’s like I am physically incapable of proceeding with my thoughts. I would think that that would annoy you.”

It was a little confusing. Lex always wanted to be in control. He needed it. So, it was a little odd that he would just deny himself to know exactly what he felt. Then again, feelings weren’t really big in the Luthor Clan.

Lex tried to keep his facial expressions in check, surprised to find that you could love someone so much and want to kill them for their stubbornness at the same time. Why couldn't she just simply let things go? It wasn't going to get them anywhere.

“Chloe, please let it go. I can assure you, that I would know if I loved you. But I didn't, well I do but only because it's your feelings. And this discussion really isn't getting us anywhere.”

It was irritating enough to suddenly have to deal with all these emotions that were a lot stronger than he was used to, and now Chloe was trying to get him to admit things that possibly weren't even there.

“Obviously, you wouldn’t know, because you don’t.” She walked over and poked him in the chest for emphasis. Chloe could feel her anger coming on, but she wasn’t letting it loose as much as she used to. She blamed it on being Lex. “And, I don’t see where we’re supposed to get if you don’t even allow for the possibility that you’re wrong about this.”

Lex's jaw clenched as Chloe kept invading his personal space and poking him in the chest. If she didn't stop soon, he would not be responsible for his actions. “Chloe,” he uttered her name in a dangerously low tone.

A) Chloe storms out
B) Lex storms out

[Blackberry]

AAAAAHHHHHHH omg omg omg omgomgomgomgomgomgomg!!!!!

Lex storms out because that seems to be a very 'Chloe' characteristic... ^_^

[LaLa]

A, Chloe storms out...and DAMN! that just gets better and better! where did u get all those crazy and fabulous ideas anyway? r u human?

xox LaLa

[chril1]

b cause then he can delve down into the myriad of his feelings and work out what the hell he is feeling

love lea
xxx

[scifichick774]

Love the brilliant twist and that Chloe called him on the fact that he doesn't really know *what* he's feeling. *cough*dolt*cough* So, anyway - B. It does seem to be a very Chloe characteristic and he needs to experience first hand why she feels the need to do it. :)

[sydsvaughn]

B works just fine for me! I love this twist and can't wait for more!

SaraC

[lexchloe]

I don't know how but you guys just keep coming up with the most interesting twists. Great chapter, even though they are Chloe's feelings I totally squeed when Lex told her he loved her. :wub: I'm going to choose A, cos seeing how angry she is might force Lex to actually confront his feelings.

[tiger04]

I guess B.

It is really interesting to see where this is going. Fun

AT

[autumngold]

I think that B Lex should storm out!! Actually I think C Lex and Chloe should make wild passionate love, but since that wasn't an option, I'll pick B!! :biggrin: :chlexsign1: :biggrin:

[newbatgirl]

Is 'nobody storming out' an option?

Damn, why not?

I'll go with B.

What a great twist and a great end to a wonderfully written chapter. It's official, NBG is no longer allowed ANY type of beverage within ten feet of her when reading fics by Blue and/or Sabby. I cannot keep replacing these keyboards. :worship2:

[sylvia]

What an awesome, awesome twist. Ha, take that Mr I'm-Too-Broody-And-Evil-For-Feelings! I loved all the funny moments, too. You guys are geniuses.


Lex storms out because that seems to be a very 'Chloe' characteristic... ^_^
Yep, B for me too. :)

[hfce]

I choose B :D



Hope :)

[Queen Of Tact]

great update.......

Hmmm it's a tough choice, but I'm going to have to go with B, cause Lex has all of Chloe's feelings and it's what she would do....

I can't wait to read more.... please please please post more soon, this fic is my drug and i'm need more...


CC

[kezz]

B! Please post soon, it felt like we were waiting for forever for this post. Yeah, yeah I know I'm an impatient little madam, my honey tells me it all the time, but I love this fic.

Kezz....x.x.x.

[je_m'adore]

I choose B because then Chloe will follow Lex and there will be more invading of the personal space which could then result in "the actions that Lex could not be held responsible for."

hoot. :blinkkiss:

[Val]

I think A. Chloe storms out because Lex being in denial for his feelings for her is quite annoying, even if I don't blame him for being that way, *glares at Lionel*.

And I loved that Chloe confronted him about this. If he doesnt talk about it, he'll remain confused. I need more!

[S.Ann Smith]

I think that the twist was very sweet... I was all like "Aww... he loves her" then I was like. hey.. wait a minnute... very well done ladies

As for my answer... I'm gonna have to say B! lex storms out. because that would be what Chloe would do :biggrin:

[Kit Merlot]

Excellent plot twist--and I think it would be

B. Lex storms out, becasue of how emotional he is now. Either that, or he kisses her, and then storms out :biggrin:

[happy bunny]

Really loving this; great twist. I like that they're both forced to feel the other's emotions and I'm glad that TPTB in the funhouse have decided that it's time for Lex to be confronted about his feelings and (hopefully) own up to them sometime soon. Great job, ladies.

I'm thinking B for me too.

[ColumbiaBlue]

Oh I LOVE that they've swapped feelings for each other. That's awesome. Hopefully it'll knock some sense into Lex's pretty, bald head.

As for the choice... erm... A? B? Hell, I dunno...

[BlueSabby]

A/N: Sabby: So yeah, we still can't do short. But hey, you get a guest star! And Lex being stupid *mumbles* not that that's something you never got before. Anyway! Enjoy *g*

A/N: Blue: More conflicting emotions and a man in black. Go to it.

“Chloe, what?” The words were hissed out between her clenched teeth. She didn’t see how Lex avoided developing TMJ if this always happened when he got angry. But, she wanted to know what Lex thought he could do about the situation. They were stuck with one another, so he was just going to have to deal with this discussion. Chloe wasn’t certain that Lex was in love with her. However, he was totally confused by what he was feeling and not dealing with it. That was not sitting well with her.

It was one thing if he knew for certain, but blocking out the possibility was another matter all together. She had been honest with herself and with him. She deserved no less from him in return.

“Would you just drop it!” Lex was reaching the end of the rope and fast. He had no inclination to continue discussing this and definitely no interest to get into another stupid fight about something that wasn't their most important issue. So he didn't know a hundred percent what he was feeling. Well at least not before they'd somehow switched their mental states. So what? He did know what he was not feeling and that was that.

By now, Lex was pushed into a corner in the kitchen. She looked up at him and tried to focus on what she was feeling. He was angry and his attention was focused solely on her…and she was ashamed to admit that it was turning her on. Then again, if she had Lex’s feelings that meant that he liked her that way. Which was a little confusing being that he always seemed so irritated with her when she got like that.

Knowing Lex, it irritated him that he reacted to her in that way and he took it out on her. Yes, that made sense. This little switch wasn’t all bad. She wanted him, that much was clear. But, were there any emotions behind it?

Being that she couldn’t get at the emotions because Lex was stubborn like that, he forced her to continue with this conversation. It was all his fault, really.

“No, I will not just drop it. I’ve been honest with you for awhile Lex,” she explained. “It’s not fair that you kept this from me.” She was getting very angry that he had purposely omitted something. It was the same as lying. She had trusted Lex and she felt like a fool for not seeing that he was keeping something from her.

Lex took a deep breath, he'd reached boiling point by now and was looking desperately for a way out. Every option would be welcome at the moment.

“I'm not 'hiding' things from you because there are no things in the....&” He stopped abruptly, sick and tired of having to defend himself for what he was and wasn't feeling. If Chloe couldn't deal with the fact that he was confused? Fine. Let her try to deal with feeling something that you know wasn't there a day ago and on top of that, know that it isn't even real. That it's just some trick someone is playing on you to drive you insane. “You know what? Fuck this!”

Lex slammed his fist on the counter, then stormed past Chloe and out of the apartment. Slamming the door shut behind him, he stalked down the hallway and just away from all things emotional.

After Lex threw his fit and stalked out of the apartment, Chloe stood immobile for a minute. She couldn’t believe that he had chosen to deal with the situation in that manner. Then, she had to remind herself that he was acting like her. A scowl came across her face at that thought.

No one just walked away from her like that, dammit. Chloe would get her answers from Lex. She’d obviously just have to go about it another way. While she respected Lex’s wishes, that didn’t mean that she would set aside her own to get at the bottom of what was happening.

It was only a matter of time before he came back. He had no clothes, no money, no keys to a car, he was basically trapped in the vicinity of the apartment. He had been reckless and hadn’t thought about what he was doing. Chloe didn’t want to think that she would have done the same thing, but it wasn’t easy to dispute that feeling.

Chloe walked over to the couch and sat down. What she needed now was a plan for when Lex came back. She knew that she shouldn’t hold her breath for an apology, but they would deal with this situation before moving on. She felt unsettled by the fact that she had little control over what had just happened. She hated that Lex could throw her into a tailspin so easily.

After a few minutes, there was a knock at the door and a triumphant smile came across Chloe’s face. She knew that it was petty, but she felt she deserved to gloat a little bit. “Well, well, well, if it isn’t Mr. I’m not dealing with this conversation, Mr. I feel what I feel,” she grasped the doorknob, “Mr. I forgot my keys, Mr….” She opened the door and stopped talking.

Bruce Wayne had expected many things, but not a petite blonde woman cursing loudly before she even opened the door. He glanced at the apartment number once more, making sure. It was the right apartment, but obviously the wrong person.

“Wayne, Bruce Wayne.” He introduced himself with a polite tone, holding out his hand. “Excuse me, but are you living here now? I am looking for my friend and this is or was his apartment,” he said, cutting right to the point. He had many important matters to deal with at any given time and no leisure to waste time on principle.

Things just went from bad to worse. Dealing with one pompous billionaire was enough, but two? Chloe hadn’t done anything to deserve such a fate. Even if Bruce Wayne was looking quite delectable dressed in all black as he got his brood on.

“Mr. Wayne, I don’t live here, no. But, at the moment, the current resident of the apartment is not at home and I don’t expect him back any time soon.” She prayed that he would get the hint and skedaddle. But, she tried to drive the point home anyway. “I’ll tell him you stopped by.” Chloe quickly started to close the door in his face.

Bruce's hand lashed out on instinct, landing with a sharp slap on the wood. “Excuse me, but I would like to wait until he returns, I have to discuss an important matter with him that cannot wait too long.”

His eyes narrowed suspiciously, committing the woman's face to memory as he pushed the door open and stepped inside the apartment. Lex didn't allow others in this apartment as a rule. It was his get away and to Bruce's knowledge, he was the only other person who knew about it's existence and location.

However this woman got here, he would find out and if necessary take care of it. The face of the woman wasn't familiar but she roamed around the apartment in nothing more than sweatpants and a t-shirt. Upon closer inspection, he recognized the clothes as Lex's.

A smirk quirked at one corner of his mouth as he addressed the woman again, completely ignoring her defensive stand and outraged expression.

“So, how do you know the owner of this apartment?”

Chloe tried, and failed, to keep the growl out of her voice. No one just brushed past her. She didn’t care how much money the man had, he had to realize that she wasn’t going to be intimidated by him. “We are friends, not that it’s any business of yours, Mr. Wayne.”

She could see that he was taking in the apartment quickly and assessing the situation. Chloe knew of Mr. Wayne’s reputation and threw in, “If you’d like to check the apartment for signs of foul play, be my guest.” She threw the words over her shoulder as she walked into the kitchen.

Just because the ass was staying didn’t mean that Chloe had any intention of entertaining him or answering any of his inevitable questions.

Bruce's eyebrows arched high, the only change in his face expression. He slowly moved around the apartment, checking for any signs that something was out of order. In the bedroom he found Lex's clothes in the hamper, as well as some female clothes.

It still didn't fit. Lex had fucked a wide range of women and even gotten close to a couple, but he'd never told anyone about this place. Also suspicious was the fact that the woman had avoided using his name or even his gender, always referring to him in general terms.

Walking back into the main room, he heard noises from the kitchen. As he hovered in the threshold he found the blonde rooting around in cabinets, muttering to herself. She obviously knew her way around the apartment.

“You'll excuse my skepticism, Miss...” he deliberately trailed off, hoping to at least get a name out of the mysterious woman.

“There is very little of your conduct that I’ll excuse, Mr. Wayne.” She had washed out the coffee cups and was putting them away in order to give herself something to do. She was curious as to what Bruce was doing in the apartment but wasn’t about to get into it with him.

The less she said, the better. Once Lex came limping back, he’d deal with the other man accordingly. For now, Chloe was just trying not to make the situation worse. And keep her temper reined in about the fact that Wayne obviously had little regard for anything that she said.

Though, at least he did seem to actually know and have some concern for Lex. It was a nice change when compared to everyone else that she knew. “However, I can see how you would think something is amiss.” She stood up and leaned against the counter, crossing her arms over her chest.

“You come to Lex’s apartment and find me instead.” Chloe saw the surprise register on his face. No doubt he had already formulated an opinion that she had killed the occupant of the apartment and stowed the body somewhere. Having no idea who she killed, she avoided using the person’s name.

She continued on. “You most likely know that few, if any, other people are privy to this apartment even existing so you worry about his well being. Well,” she paused and walked over to him, “I understand that, but that does not make you any less rude for staying in a place that you are so obviously not wanted.”

“So, you’ll have to excuse me not excusing you and your lame attempts to wring my name out of me.” Chloe smirked up at him, awaiting his next move.

He was impressed. This woman obviously knew who she was dealing with and how to work with it. The information she'd given him was enough to let him know that Lex had obviously told her about this place. Coupled with the fact that she knew her way around, it let him know that she had been here for a while.

“You said it yourself, with the information I was given, I could only assume that something was amiss and I wouldn't have been a good friend if I had simply turned my back and walked away. Therefore I behaved accordingly.” He stepped further into the kitchen and closer to the woman. “So where is Lex?”

What was it about having more money than god that made a person think they could encroach on your personal space without it having any ramifications.

“Out,” Chloe said as she put one hand on Bruce’s chest and pushed him a little away from her. “I believe I stated that already, though. Only five minutes into the inquisition and you’re repeating yourself already?” She clucked her tongue. “You must be off of your game….Bruce.”

His eyes narrowed dangerously as he grabbed her hand and squeezed maybe just a little too tight. “If you think you will throw me out without so much as a good explanation nor your name, you are wrong. And I don't like to be touched, so I would advise you to keep your hands to yourself.” He dropped her hand and stepped back from her, then headed back into the living room in a few quick strides.

Settling down he watched the fuming blonde come up to him, her stance the poster expression for an infuriated housewife.

“I will wait here until Lex returns, then he can explain how you come to be here and verify your sparse information,” he looked her sharply in the eyes. “Or not and you will have to deal with a different kind of situation altogether,” his voice dropped to an even lower level.

Rage was coursing through every blood vessel in her body. She knew that she’d have to get out of the room rather quickly or she might actually physically accost Wayne. While it would be an excellent outlet for her current emotions, she knew that she was no match when compared to Bruce. The throbbing sensation in her wrist told her so. It would be a stupid move, so she stamped down her natural instincts.

Instead, she said, “You will also have to deal with a different kind of situation, as you put it, if you decide to use more force than is necessary with me again. And, not even Lex or any of the minions that may be waiting outside by your overpriced, sad excuse for a vehicle that is demonstrative of what you lack in other areas will be able to tear me off of you before I…”

Bruce's eyes had shifted from the blonde in front of him as he heard the door open and close in the middle of her rant. He was used to being threatened and had heard more creative insults before, so it was nothing new to him. However the expression on Lex's face and his general state were. His friend looked like he was trying to ignore the world and especially the blonde in the middle of the room as he strode into the living room in only shirt and boxers. Until his eyes fell on Bruce that was.

“Bruce? What the hell are you doing here?”

Lex had realized about halfway down the stairs that he hadn't put on any clothes before storming out of the apartment. Feeling rather idiotic, but not yet ready to go back into the apartment, he'd made his way down into the laundry-room in the cellar of the complex.

He'd been thankfully alone and spent a few minutes pacing the confined room. When he'd not calmed down at all, he'd alternated between sitting on one of the machines staring straight ahead and jumping back onto his feet pacing again. Lex had realized pretty soon that this was ridiculous and an absolutely un-typical reaction for him to have, cursing Chloe's emotions.

So he'd decided to confront the problem, like he usually would have done. Not at all, but in a more stoic and decidedly less hysterical girl way. Finding Bruce Wayne sitting on his couch upon his return was a surprise, to say the least.

Bruce merely arched an eyebrow at his friend’s unexpected outburst, still trying to figure out a reason why Lex was running around in not much more than his underwear in front of all and sundry.
“I came to visit and talk about the deal we had planned a week ago. But I seem to have caught you at a bad time,” he answered Lex's question, giving his friend's attire a significant look.

Lex would love nothing more than to strangle Chloe at this moment. Talking about, the blonde in question looked about ready to strangle someone herself.

“I see you've met Chloe already,” he started, wondering if he could somehow excuse them without arousing more suspicions, to figure out what the hell was going on now.

It wasn't enough that the powers were fucking with their emotions and getting them into petty arguments over and again, no they had to throw old school friends and business partners into the mix. Heaven forbid it should get boring.

“Yes, we’ve met,” Chloe spat out the last word. While Lex was good at controlling his emotions even he seemed to have his breaking point cause she could feel all of her hostility and annoyance bubbling to the surface. “You’re friend here refused to leave before speaking with you.”

She turned to Bruce, “However, I have dibs on Lex right now. He and I were not through discussing an important matter when you swooped down and dug your heels in. So, get in line.” Right now, she couldn’t decide who she wanted to throttle more. When she saw Lex looking at her as if she had lost her mind, she made her decision. Lex won, hands down.

“You. Me. Bedroom. Now.” Her tone brooked no argument and she didn’t wait for a response from either of the men before turning on her heel and storming off into the aforementioned room. At least now, in addition to laying into Lex about the rudeness of his friend and his childlike behavior what with the walking out, they would also have a chance to get their stories straight.

Bruce's eyebrows hit his well groomed hairline at those words and he shot Lex a look that spelled clearly he expected an explanation for this kind of behavior.

Lex answered silently, as well glaring at the imitation of his old friend and offering no excuses before he made his way into the bedroom, deciding he would make Chloe pay for her attitude, and dearly.

Closing the bedroom door behind him, he immediately laid into her.

“If you think you can talk to me in that tone of voice again, you're sorely mistaken. I am neither your pet, nor your child and the only reason I am in here right now, is because we need a good explanation as to why you are in here.” He glared angrily at her as he stepped closer. “Even if it technically wouldn't make any difference since this is not the real Bruce Wayne and I am probably not even close to the version of myself that he is expecting to find here.”

While he spoke, he'd made his way to the closet and pulled out a pair of pants, shoving his legs inside them and zipping them up quickly. He didn't bother putting on another shirt since he hadn't even taken a shower yet thanks to the turbulent morning they'd had. Lex officially hated this place with a passion. And Chloe's emotions were getting to him again it seemed.

“Speaking to you rationally gets me nowhere as our earlier conversation proved to me so I had to use that tone on you. Besides,” Chloe said as she walked over to Lex, “I think it’s only fair that you get a little of your own medicine.” True, it had been a long while since she had heard Lex speak to her in such a manner, but she didn’t care about that little factoid right about now. All she wanted to do was get away from this fucked up situation.

“As for what to tell the huge jackass sitting on the couch,” Chloe yelled her description of Bruce at the top of her lungs so Bruce could hear her but she was careful to turn away from Lex so as not to deafen him. Her voice went back to its normal level. “I could literally give a fuck. Tell him I’m one of your usual whores that stalked you and refused to leave. I’m sure he’d buy that.”
She was still pissed and decided that the closet door was a good thing to take her anger out on. Chloe hit the door with the palm of her hand and hissed when the pain radiated up to her already sore wrist. She turned away from Lex before massaging the injury.

Lex gritted his teeth against the urge to yell at her and went over to see if she'd injured herself badly. However, she was not getting out of this so easily.

“Firstly, I have never ordered you around like so much as a dog.” He took her hand and lifted it up, watching the palm turn a lovely shade of red in front of him. He also noticed a ring of bruises around her wrist. Narrowing his eyes and making a mental note to talk to Bruce about that, he went on. “Secondly, I will not sully your reputation in any way, no matter what parallel universe version of Bruce we're dealing with. He wouldn't believe me anyway, since I don't bring anyone here, least of all random women I've picked up.” Looking her straight in the eyes, he blew gently on her palm before releasing it and closing the closet door.

“And thirdly, I would appreciate it if you refrained from running amok on inanimate objects. It's probably something you picked up from me, but you are more likely to hurt yourself doing it.” He took a few steps back and realized he'd completely run out of steam, his worry about the situation with Bruce and the injury on Chloe's hand overriding the issues they'd had about the other matter.

“So, we'll just have to tell him the truth, with a twist I guess,” he commented non segue.

Chloe had realized the mistake of physical violence too late. She should have known that Lex would not let her lick her wounds in private. That he’d have to inspect them himself to make sure she wasn’t hurt. But, she could look after herself and didn’t need anyone attending to her. At first, she had considered wresting her wrist away from Lex, but that would have only made the situation worse.

Lex’s first point may have been valid in another circumstance, but she wasn’t going to apologize for it being that it had gotten them away from Wayne. Speaking of which, she didn’t envy the man when she saw Lex’s reaction to the bruise on her wrist.

Trying to determine how much of it was her versus Lex’s emotions that bristled at his instructions was difficult to ascertain. If she wanted to slam herself into a wall, that was her concern, not his. The double dose of stubbornness was likely to get her killed.

She turned away from Lex and sat down on the far corner of the bed. “I still think it would be easier to tell him that I’m some psycho, but do what you want. I really don’t care about anything except getting him the hell out of here.” She turned her head and looked at Lex over her shoulder. “What part of the truth do you plan on telling him?”

Lex kept standing where he was, turning to face Chloe. She'd clearly reached a point of resignation and Lex was afraid that he'd somehow managed to fuck something up without meaning to, again.

“The part that is credible. That you are a close friend of mine who is going through a tough time at the moment and that I am trying to help you through it.”

As he summed up the entire situation in those few words, Chloe's feelings started to come through again, throwing him off guard. He wasn't even able to clearly tell the difference anymore, how much of what he was feeling was coming from himself and what of it came from her. But the urge to just wrap her in a hug and tell her he'd love her no matter what surely wasn't coming from him.

Chloe decided not to harp on the fact that he was making her the helpless woman who he was rescuing. Because that’s what it would be, harping. He made a valid point and that would also explain why she was so short with Bruce. She looked over at his expectant face, awaiting her response and again felt a twinge that she couldn’t return the feelings that it was evident that Lex had for her.

Again, she was faced with the thought that she couldn’t do so, not that she didn’t have those feelings. But, that conversation had been buried and she didn’t think that Lex would allow it to be exhumed again.

Chloe turned away from him and looked out the window as she spoke. “Ok, Lex. That sounds like a good plan.” She ignored the splitting headache that the argument with Lex and then Bruce had given her. After they got back she intended to cut herself off from anyone who gave her the least bit of stress. She needed a vacation from the migraines.

Sighing as she got up she gestured to the door, “I’ll follow your lead.”

Lex's brows furrowed as he saw Chloe obviously fighting a headache. “You know you don't have to go out there. I've got some painkillers in the bathroom and if you just wanna lie down, I'm sure I'll be able to deal with him.”

He didn't want to expose Chloe to the myriad of annoying and less than tactful questions that were about to happen. There was no reason for it.

Chloe’s natural instinct was to go out there and face Bruce again. But, she got the distinct impression that Lex wanted her to stay in here. The last thing she needed was another fight so she decided that laying down was her best bet at this juncture. Maybe a rest would make her more rational.

She nodded once and then walked over to the other side of the bed, silently. She’d look into the drugs if it got any worse. Pulling back the sheets, she climbed into the bed and tried to relax. It was hard being that she could tell that Lex was staring at her hard core.

Lex watched Chloe silently as she simply got back into the bed and lay down with her back to him. He decided to get her the painkillers, so she wouldn't have to get up and try to find them if the headache got worse.

He put a glass of water and two of the pills beside her on the nightstand, then silently made his way back into the living room, lifting his chin and straightening his back before he faced Bruce Wayne.

“So Bruce, what was there any problems with the deal?”

He'd remembered the reason the man had given when he'd returned to the apartment and tried to keep the subject on something not Chloe. Lex knew it wouldn't work, but Bruce would have gotten more concerned if he hadn't even tried.

Looking up at his friend, Bruce decided to forgo the questions on the mysterious woman in the apartment…for now, that was. He didn’t want to tank a perfectly good deal because of his curiosity. Besides, this was the dance that they always went through.

“That was my question to you. I realize a handshake at a club isn’t binding, but I was under the impression that your lawyers would be contacting mine.” If Lex had any last minute concerns now was the time to address them. If he didn’t, well, Bruce happened to have a contract in his suit pocket that only needed Lex’s signature to make it legal and binding.

Lex's brow arched at the comment. He'd never done business in clubs, well no legal business anyway. Apparently, the version of him that resided here handled things a lot differently.

“There was an unrepentant incident that required my immediate attention, and unfortunately, also my lawyers'. I can assure you that it has nothing to do with our deal,” he lied smoothly.

His only intention was to get the other man out of the apartment so he could get some time and space. Lex had a minor headache coming on himself, but was mostly just annoyed with the situation and wanted to figure out where Chloe and him were supposed to go from here and how to get their emotions back where they belonged.

“The situation has been resolved and my lawyers should contact you within the next few days. Don't worry, Bruce. You know I don't go back on my word.”

“Right,” Bruce said, slowly. There was something off about Lex that he couldn’t quite put his finger on. Being that the deal was equally advantageous to his friend, Bruce couldn’t imagine what would have constituted such an emergency that he would have blown him off for three days.

An emergency that involved high priced lawyers whose practices would definitely be considered to be in that gray area of the law. Then there was the woman who had magically appeared in Lex’s top secret apartment that Bruce had only found the exact location to through a great amount of bribery.

A thought occurred to him. This was the perfect place to hide someone that you didn’t want found. And, what reason could Lex have for stashing a woman here other than the obvious?

“How far along is she, Lex?” It would make sense that he’d need his lawyers to take care of such a delicate situation.

Lex was taken aback by the blunt question. Bruce had obviously put one and one together and made three of it. Literally. He chuckled wryly as he settled down on the chair opposite the dark haired man. Better to make it short, sweet and simple.

“She's not pregnant. We're not fucking at all in fact.” He let that sink in before he continued. “Chloe is just a friend, who'll be staying here for a while,” he explained nonchalantly. “But I appreciate your concern.” He didn't even try to keep the sarcasm out of his voice.

Obviously, his alter ego in this variation was a player that didn't give much about responsibility and wasn't above breaking a deal with a friend either. Lex was glad he couldn't say the same for himself.

Bruce carefully watched his friend’s/sometimes nemesis’s face. Lex was telling the truth…he thought. But, it was still out of character for Lex to offer up the one place in all of the world that no one else knew about. There had to be something more going on. The situation peaked his interest and the all important deal quickly fell by the wayside in his brain.

He decided to see how close Lex and this Chloe were. Just to test the waters. “Glad to hear it.” Bruce paused. “Then, would you mind if I took a run at her? We didn’t get off on the right foot, but I admire her spirit.” Bruce grinned at his friend, awaiting his response.

Lex's brow quirked and he tried for a nonchalant smirk, but it fell flat. Just the thought of Bruce touching Chloe sent a bolt of jealousy through his system and it wasn't easy to stay in control. The memory of Chloe's bruised wrist flashed through his mind and his expression went deadly serious.

“I don't think she would appreciate any advances after what happened earlier. Especially considering that she will bear the marks of this encounter for a while.”

Controlling the urge to attack this variation of his long time friend was becoming progressively harder and Lex decided it was time to end this talk as soon as possible.

“In fact, I think it would be wiser for you to leave before she gets up again. I don't want her to have to deal with any stress right now.”

Bruce’s curiosity mounted again at his friend’s reaction. The other man knew that he would never intentionally hurt a woman. Unless that was what they were into, of course. So, he was being protective over her. A new wrinkle that Bruce fixed on.
Some of the amazement at the turn of events filtered into his voice when he said, “You’re throwing me out.”

His gaze turned back in the direction of the closed bedroom door. He hadn’t failed to notice the insults that the woman had screamed at him and that she hadn’t reappeared. What Lex was telling him didn’t add up. There was no way that his friend would be so overprotective of a friend. Besides, Lex didn’t have any female friends. Just women he hadn’t slept with…yet.

“I may have been a little vigorous in my treatment of Chloe, but she didn’t sustain any long term harm. She also seems to be a woman who can handle herself. What is really going on with her Lex? I doubt that any woman other than the one currently ensconced in your bedroom would know her way around this place. And doing so in your own clothes, as well.”

“You would be right, because she is the only one. Never the less, she isn't a lover. You know me better than that. She's a close friend and going through a hard time right now.” He'd stick to the story he'd come up with. “But it is not my place to tell you about this. I'm only trying to help her as much as I can.” Lex watched the usually unresponsive face of his friend go through several expressions in a short time as he talked.

“And that's why I'm asking you to leave.” He got up and stood in front of Bruce, his hands automatically wandering into the pockets of his pants. This conversation was over.

Bruce got the message loud and clear. He could see that he wasn’t going to get any further with Lex. And if he pushed, Lex would do a little more than shove back. Unable to help himself, he peered around Lex’s body towards the bedroom one more time.

Nodding once before getting up, Bruce said, “I understand.” He fished the contract out of his pocket and threw it on the coffee table. “I’ll leave that for your perusal. Give me a call if you have any questions or if there are any sticking points.”

“I’ll show myself out.” He brushed past Lex and opened the door. If Lex wouldn’t tell him who Chloe was, he’d find out himself. “Give Chloe my regards.” He walked out into the hallway and waited until he was in the elevator to fish out his cell phone and contact his PI.

Lex had breathed a silent sigh of relief when Bruce had finally left. His mind was still on overdrive, trying to figure out what to do next and how to deal with the new situation he'd probably just created if this Bruce was anything like the one in the real world. Then there was still the problem with those feelings that weren't his own. They were driving him just a little insane and Lex did not want to go there, again.

He slowly made his way back into the bedroom, finding Chloe fast asleep, curled up in the center of the bed. The water glass on the nightstand was empty and the painkillers gone.

A small smile came to his lips when Chloe mumbled something in her sleep and burrowed deeper into her pillow. The now familiar strange feeling settled inside him again, making him step closer to the bed to look at her face.

This was ridiculous. He knew it weren't his feelings, but everything that wasn't his mind told him he loved Chloe and that she was it for him. It didn't even matter if he was mad at her, or if they were screaming in each other's faces in a full blown fight. The same feelings had been there, even in that moment.

But this was neither real, nor right. They had to do something to get things back to normal and then they had to get out of this forsaken funhouse, somehow. The longer they stayed, the worse it would be. Lex did not want them to end up like the other version of them that had grown apart so far that it came to a relationship between Chloe and Clark. Just the thought made his stomach turn and Lex was sure that a great deal of that was of his own accord.

They had to do something, and it should be soon. Lex just had no idea what that something was going to be.

A: Lex wakes up Chloe
B: Lex goes for a walk

[asharnanae]

:biggrin: wooo wooo wooo woo!!!!!!!! :chlexsign1: :worship2: :yay: Hot damn this story just getts twister every time, you guys ROCK!!!

and BBBBBB!!!! lex goes for a a walk!

[chril1]

b

love lea
xxx

[scifichick774]

Let me first say that I love that you brought Bruce in. Love him - even if he's an asshole. As for the vote...I honestly have no idea. I can't imagine Chloe would be happy being woken up when she has a headache and if he goes for a walk then she'll probably wake up and get mad at him for leaving again. *sigh* If only Lex would just clue in to the fact that he *likes* her. Git. Okay, I'm voting for A. Maybe it'll switch their emotions back and he'll be even more confused.

[S.Ann Smith]

B!

[LaLa]

well, if u chose A, can we have some smut? if no, I 'd say B, and then , Lex stumbles on something big please! :biggrin:

xox LaLa - yeah, I know, i'm sooo good with taking a CLEAR decision! - that was my sarcastic typing there

[hfce]

B


Hope :)

[newbatgirl]

Like I'm going to complain that you brought in Bruce? Once again, visions of a scantily dressed Christian Bale running through my head!!!

Ahem, the story. I'm going to say B but really, I want whichever choice messes with Lex's head the most. I'm going to go out on a limb and say that I think Blue and Sabby can figure out a new and tortuous way to do just that! Chloe's head has been messed with enough in this tale.

[sydsvaughn]

Got to go with "B" here... I so loved introducing Bruce ... and the emotions keep getting more twisted.

More soon please!

SaraC