[Completed] Buyouts, Hostile Takeovers & Matchmaking (PG-13/R) [Archive] - Page 2 - NS Forums - Your number one site for Chloe and Lex (Chlex)

BlueSabby

11th June 2005, 20:24

A/N:Sabby: I really don't have anything witty to say, but this one's got Chlex! So enjoy and thanks for the feedback.

A/N: Blue: A little bit of everything. Some Celeste and then two different 'meetings' between two sets of Sullivans and Luthors. Enjoy and thanks for all of the detailed feedback as of late!

Celeste looked at the clock on her computer. She was currently writing up a few different strategies for getting her targets together in a civilized way. While this should have been her most pleasant job to date it was actually turning out to be the hardest. What with all of the players involved.

Or, more accurately, the different personalities. She had looked over both Lex and Chloe’s dossiers and the situation was grim. It wasn’t that they weren’t compatible, if anything they were a good match on paper, it was that they were both stubborn as mules.

Now that they were in a fight she was trying to find a way to get them into neutral territory. And then there was the little detail of how to get them speaking to one another once they were in neutral territory.

These plans were useless unless the children would speak to one another. As she looked at the clock again, her phone rang. This was the call she had been waiting for.

“What’s the situation?”

She listened attentively to the two men on the other end of the line as she took notes.

After hanging up Celeste tried to be realistic about what they had told her. It really didn’t mean anything and there were a number of things that could have explained the oddity. However, she did believe that a little optimism went a long way.

One of her operatives had been assigned to Lex and Chloe, respectively. They were to observe the two in general and not to interfere in any way.

They had reported losing contact with their targets. When the times were compared there was an overlap. It could mean any number of things. That they had both went off with other people. That they had each found a hiding spot.

But it was the last possibility that Celeste focused on. That they had been together. She knew that there was nothing romantic going on between the couple, that much was obvious. But if they had been able to share the same space with each other, even for a few minutes, without any figurative or literal bloodshed, well, her job would be made that much easier.

Though she was beginning to learn that the words easy, Luthor and Sullivan did not often mix.

~~~

Lex had spent the better part of the night pondering the unexpected outcome of the evening. Brooding over a single glass of scotch that he didn't even drink until he'd given up on finding the answer to the nagging questions churning in his mind.

The next day at work, he hadn’t been able to concentrate, which could have turned into a catastrophe if he'd had any major deals to close. Thankfully, all he'd had to do was some major paper pushing and signing one or the other report.

By five in the afternoon, he'd had it. So he'd called one of his contacts, found out the needed address and called it a day.

Now, about an hour later, he stood in front of a rather non-descript white door in a rather nondescript apartment house in a mediocre part of town. Determined to get some answers, he rang the doorbell.
Chloe was just sitting down on the couch when the doorbell rang. It had been a spectacularly boring day at the office and she was glad to be home. Her night consisted of a good block of doing nothing. And, she was looking forward to it.

“I swear, if it’s some Jesus freak looking to save my soul I will tell him that I’m Satan’s handmaiden” She put her bottle of water on the table and made her way over to the door.

She looked through the peephole and cursed. Her damn super had still not fixed the contraption. Throwing a prayer to the higher gods that a maniac wasn’t darkening her doorstep, Chloe pulled the door open.

She would have been less surprised had it actually been a maniac. Well, a maniac she didn’t know.

The door opened and he got a look at Chloe completely dumbstruck before she schooled her features into an interested but less stupefied expression. For a moment, the question he'd come to ask slipped his mind and he simply smirked at her. However, the moment passed.

“I could pretend that I was in the area, but we both know I've got no business here, and even if it was the case that still wouldn't explain how I know your address, so let's skip the niceties. Can I come in?”

“Works for me,” Chloe said, smoothly. She stepped back and said, “Come in, Lex.” He brushed past her and was clearly surveying her apartment. Maybe taking in the items and attempting to figure out her psyche a bit more. Or maybe just looking for a quick escape route if things went the way they usually did between the two of them.

She wondered what Lex either wanted or needed. She could ask him directly but she was fairly certain by the tone of his voice that he would get to the issue he wished to discuss quickly. It was why she had dropped the Mr. Luthor thing, it seemed dumb to call him that in her own home.

“Can I take your coat,” she asked. “Or will this be a quick visit?” If she were about to be schooled by Lex she would ask him to leave right now. True, she had said what she had wanted and left him but he had made no move to respond to her.

“That depends.” Lex swiveled around from his inspection of the rather small apartment to face her directly. “Why did you tell me what you did last night,” he asked without preamble.

It had driven him downright insane, because there was no discernable reason for her to do so. He'd thought about this from every angle, gone through all possible options and still come up empty. There was just no reason for her to tell him and he couldn't let it rest, because there had to be a reason.

Chloe raised one eyebrow at him. So, this was what the visit was about? She shouldn’t have been surprised. Lex didn’t just need the facts about everything he wanted motives, as well.

She wasn’t ashamed or embarrassed about why she had blurted out her little speech last night. It was a fact of life that most people cared about what others thought of them. Even if they weren’t close and didn’t come into contact with each other.

At one time she had considered Lex the closest thing to a kindred spirit that she would ever find in Smallville. She cared what he thought of her then and she still cared. It was irrational and against her better judgment but it was what it was.

“I didn’t want you to think that I was playing a game with your life. That’s why.” She rounded the other side of the couch, Lex still watching her carefully as if she were about to leap on him like a lemur, and then said, “Does that answer earn me your jacket?”

The answer to his initial question had brought forth another, so his answer was, “Yes.”

He took off his jacket and handed it to her, waiting until she returned from the coat rack to ask.

“And why is it so important what I think of your motives, when only a few weeks prior you told me you'd be happy to never see me again?”

It made no sense. Granted, women didn't make sense most of the time, but Chloe Sullivan seemed like someone who was different in that regard. So there had to be a reason.

Chloe should have known that Lex couldn’t just take one answer and let it go. She wouldn’t put it past him to break out the rubber hose until she told him exactly what he had come here for.

Sitting down on the couch and gesturing that Lex should do the same, Chloe considered asking him why he cared so much about her motivations.

She’d save that for later. For now she’d answer his question. It was the only way that they would get anywhere.

“I meant what I said about not wanting to see you again.” Lex’s brow rose at her words and she added, “At the time. I was mad, no not mad, enraged that you would think about me.” She sighed and was quiet for a moment.

She leaned back and said, “But that’s not really answering your question.” Chloe was so used to being able to deflect every conversation away from herself that this was an almost pleasant change of pace. Besides, if she told Lex anything that she wished she hadn’t, she could just avoid him for the rest of her life.

“There weren’t many people in Smallville that I really and truly gave a damn about their opinion of me. You were one of them. And, I appear not to have grown out of that.”

That was unexpected. It was also a damn good explanation for why he hadn't been able to come up with a motive for her actions before. This one surely never had made it into his calculations. It was too, it was by far not jaded enough to ever make it onto his radar of possible motives.

He nodded, “Ok.”

During the pause that followed, he tried figuring out where that put him now. It occurred to him that it didn't have to put him anywhere and that it was ridiculous to care beyond this point, but he still had some questions.

“In the elevator, why did you attack me like that when you knew that the things you threw at me weren't exactly true?”

“Instinct,” she explained with a shrug. Turning towards him and folding her legs under her she said, “Things got very uncontrolled between us rather quickly. I attacked you because I felt under attack.”

That was something that she thought Lex would understand. She was sure that he had felt the same way. But, if he was going to get answers from her a little reciprocity seemed in order.

“And, why did you even care about this?” She regarded him carefully. “Why come over here to ask me these things? Being that we both agreed to never speak to or see each other until the end of time, not knowing wouldn’t have affected your life in any way.”

Lex smirked a little in self deprecation, but held the eye contact. She had him there.

“Being that you broke that little arrangement in the first place, I thought it necessary to find out what would motivate you to make amends. Knowledge is power and I don't like being ignorant about anything.”

It was interesting that her thought process was reflecting his, though. He'd been thinking in the exact same lines when he'd tried to find out why she'd explained her action in the first place.

She didn’t want to make things worse when they were getting better but she couldn’t let him operate under false assumptions. “Technically,” she said, a small smile appearing on her face, “I wasn’t attempting to make amends. I was just setting the record straight. Making amends would have sounded a little different.”

When looking at all she knew about Lex, and all she thought she knew about him, his appearance on her doorstep wasn’t exactly out of character. She had thrown him and he would have his answers, dammit! Her smile grew a little wider as she imagined his trip over here. Lex thinking of strategies to get all of the information that he needed out of her.

It was nice to see that there was one person just as stubborn as she was. Now she could use Lex in her disagreements with her father to refute his constant ascertain that she was the most stubborn and infernal creature on the face of the planet.

Lex accepted the correction with tongue in cheek, holding back from any snide comments. It wouldn't do to get into a fight again over semantics.

“In any case, my intention was simply to be aware of your motives so I wouldn't be ignorant of anything that they might entail,” he said.

So now he knew. So, why was he still sitting on Chloe's couch and not getting up and taking his leave? Because there was this niggling thing in the back of his mind that he was almost sure was his conscience, telling him that he had to make some amends as well. Or setting the record straight, as Chloe liked to call it.

“Also, in light of your explanation, it's only due that I apologize for the wrong assumption I made. It's not often in my line of work that someone lends a helping hand simply out of the goodness of their heart, so I jumped to the wrong conclusions.”

As she thought about the way that Lex led his life and the people that he surrounded himself with Chloe had to admit that his assumption would be an easy one to make. Especially since she had just magically popped back into his life, too. It would have been a little too coincidental for her own liking.

She waved her hand at him in a dismissive gesture, “Apology accepted. You haven’t spoken to me in years so I suppose that there’s no way for you to have been certain that I wasn’t playing you, looking for an exclusive or doing something else underhanded. I’m sorry for attacking..” she wanted to say his ex-wives, but she really wasn’t sorry about it.

The women that Lex had dated and/or married deserved every mean thing that she had said or insinuated about them. And then some, too. “Your personal life,” she finished. It was vague enough and she knew that Lex would get the drift.

Lex got the drift of what Chloe's words and hand gestures were trying to say. Looking at it from an emotionally detached point of view, it wasn't anything he wouldn't have done. He'd simply gotten caught up in the situation and he hated being criticized, especially by people who were basing their critique on surface knowledge.

“Apology accepted,” he repeated Chloe's earlier words.

So, now what? This was weird for her and she’d wager that Lex didn’t often find himself in this situation, either. Now that she wasn’t trying to figure out what Lex was doing there and how to match wits with him, she started to think about how odd it was that Lex was in her apartment. She knew that he had surveyed the place and filed everything away in his brain for a later date.

She leaned further back into the couch and said, “I’d offer you something to drink but I recently did a little spring cleaning. After throwing out all of the sub par alcohol, I didn’t have any left.” Chloe had found it amazing that Teddy, a professional bartender, hadn’t bought any top shelf hooch. Unprofessional, really.

Lex would most likely turn her down and make a smooth exit, totally ignoring the now strange vibe between them, but she needed to make the gesture. Chloe wanted him to know that whatever it was that had passed between them was over. She could hold a grudge like the best of them but had no intention of doing that with Lex.

Before Lex could answer she added, “I was just about to order something to eat if you’d like to stay.” Her appetite hadn’t been the best in the past few days but she felt it coming back. She was sure it was a coincidence, had nothing to do with the guilt of yelling at Lex.

Shaking his head, he got up from the couch. “Thanks, but I have to get back to the office. My father has been,” he searched for the right word, “Off lately.” Lex didn't want to further think about that.

Taking his coat from the rack, he turned around. “I'm glad we sorted this out. I have a feeling as long as your boss is still trying to punish you, we'll run into each other again.”

As soon as he'd gotten one arm into his coat, his cell phone went off in the pocket. Taking a breath, he pulled it out and flipped it open while still sliding his other arm into the coat. “Luthor,” he answered in his business tone.

Listening to the prattle of a frazzled lawyer with one ear, he lifted a hand towards Chloe in good bye as he made his way out the door. “I've told you before Mr. Patricks, it is your problem how you get Marshall to sign this contract. Now you've made it my problem by ...”

Even though he was engrossed in the conversation and no longer paying her much mind, Chloe raised her hand and waved good bye at Lex as the door closed behind him. She turned the various locks and then leaned up against the door.

It had been a weird few weeks and she had had a little hope that things would calm down now that she and Lex had made peace. She hadn’t considered the fact that her boss would still want to throw them together and observe them.

Groaning, she pushed off from the door and walked into her kitchen in search of the take out menus she knew had to be shoved in one drawer or another.

~~~~
Gabe leaned back in his chair, reading once more over the one page update report he'd received from Celeste today. It didn't say much, but the little it said was interesting. Lex had sought Chloe out on his own volition. He'd went to her apartment - Gabe didn't want to know how he'd gotten his hands on the address - and come out about half an hour later, talking on the cell phone. In the time he'd been inside the apartment, no ruckus had been heard.

That meant that whatever they had talked about had happened peacefully and judging by the fact that no restraining orders had been made, it looked like Lex and Chloe had made up. Gabe wondered if the event mentioned in the previous report had anything to do with it. Maybe he could subtly have the subject come up in conversation with Chloe and find out the details. He put the report aside just when the door to his office slammed open, Lionel storming in like heaven's wrath.

Even in his anger, Lionel was sure to shut the door behind him. He wouldn’t have their plan discovered by one of their underlings that they would be forced to either bribe or disappear. It would be too much time and effort taken away from their master plan. Not that anything was happening with said plan.

“That woman,” Lionel hissed out, making the last word sound like the basest of curses, “has informed me that she intends to do nothing about this latest development.” When Gabe just looked at him placidly, Lionel repeated himself. “Nothing!”

He slipped his hands into his pockets as he regarded Gabe. “We have real progress starting to happen and she gave me some little speech about how forcing things too quickly could blow up in our faces. She clearly does not understand the time table that I have set up.”

“We must strike now while the iron is hot.” He picked the report up from Gabe’s desk and said, “They have shown us a weakness and we have to go for the jugular.” He took a deep breath and then fluidly sat down in the chair opposite of Gabe.

After a moment of silence, he said, “Celeste is under the impression that I am over reacting. What is your opinion on that matter?”

One of the reasons that he had enlisted Gabe’s help was that the other man was very clear headed. He knew that would come in handy once Lionel started this war.

Gabe took a deep breath and folded his fingers in his lap. What he had to say wouldn't sit well with Lionel. So he'd have to sell it in the most subtle and uncutting way possible.

“I think that going for the jugular right now is not the best idea. Chloe and Lex are on very shaky terms and one false step would blow all our plans up in our face. However, doing absolutely nothing at this juncture, isn't what I think best, either,” he stated slowly.

They had to be careful, but they couldn't just do nothing. What were they paying Celeste money for if she intended to sit around and wait? They could do that without her help. They needed to find a middle way. Between Celeste's and Lionel's ideas.

“I think we should set up a conference and talk about the specifics. Make it clear that we don't intend to wait for the next ten years to have things resolved. She has admitted herself that this is the first time she's working in this particular field, so maybe we should keep closer tabs on what she's doing and not leave everything in her hands.”

He still didn't like the woman, however, she was a specialist so they'd have to work with her, somehow.

“She’s not onsite right now.” He had gone over to her office and said his piece, full of accusations and veiled threats. The woman had let him speak and then asked him to sit down.

Perhaps he had overstated the situation to Gabe. The woman did have what she called a ‘plan,’ it was just far below what Lionel had expected after the turn of events that had just occurred.

His son had purposely sought out Chloe. He had made the first step in amending their relationship and that fact had to be taken advantage of. Celeste clearly did not understand that her subtle ways would not work.

“We’ll have to talk to her when she returns from meeting some of her contacts.” Gabe remained silent, no doubt knowing that there was something that Lionel was keeping from him. It was a tactic that Lionel used himself often.

“Celeste’s bright idea of a plan is to make sure that the children see one another regularly without forcing the issue. She intends to ensure that Chloe’s boss makes her cover the events that Lex will be attending.” That was all well and good but there needed to be something more. Something to force the two of them together in a situation. It wouldn’t backfire a second time, Lionel would see to that.

Taking another deep breath, Gabe willed his own temper under control in favor of preventing Lionel from making a mistake. It galled him of course that Celeste had pretty much done what he would have. The woman seemed to be doing her job just fine, but that still didn't mean he liked her. She had a horrible attitude.

“Well, I don't think it's such a bad idea. If they're not secluded, they might get along better. Especially if they're in a situation where they're basically forced to act civil like a Gala Opening or something. Both of them are extremely aware of the public and their appearance, so they wouldn't start a fight where other people and especially the press might see it.”

It seemed only logical to keep them seeing each other in public until they were on a more solid base of friendship, then they could work from there.

Here was the problem. When Lionel actually stopped to think about what both Gabe and that woman had to say he knew that they were right. Or, were not wrong, at the very least. However, this was not going according to his plan.

He had planned to have a person beneath him that would do whatever he said. That had not worked out. Then, he had planned to fire Celeste when she showed her incompetence. That, also, had not come to fruition.

The fact that this had to be done at all was because his plans for Lex hadn’t worked out. When the boy was young, he had planned to be a good father to him. Lionel chose not to think about the old adage that addressed the issue of the best laid plans.

But he couldn’t sit by and do nothing. If Celeste thought she was in charge, Lionel would continue to let her operate under that assumption. Just because she had a plan for the children didn’t mean that Lionel would stop with his own ideas.

Lionel nodded slowly. “Ok, we’ll allow her to do what she wishes. However, if there is no more progress made in the next few days I will be forced to step in.” The problem was that he was fairly certain that Celeste was watching him just as carefully as she was watching the children. He’d find a way around it if need be, though.

Gabe bit the inside of his cheek to keep from saying something that could be construed as condescending or patronizing. He knew that it was hard for Lionel to have to watch somebody else doing something in a way that went against everything he'd do to achieve the same goal.

“Give it just a little more time, Lionel. If there's nothing that could be considered progress in, let's say 7 days, then we'll go to Celeste and light a little fire under her seat, I don't like the fact that things aren't going easily or fast, either. But good things come to those who wait and all that drat. So, this week we wait, and next week, if nothing happens till then, we step in and take charge. Agreed?”

He could only hope that Lionel would agree to this, and that Celeste was right, because if she wasn't and nothing happened, he would have a hard time stopping Lionel from doing anything awfully stupid in the best of intentions.

Temperance, thy name is Gabe. Lionel often wondered if Chloe got her fiery temper from her mother or if Gabe only let his out on rare occasions. However, he wasn’t sure how the other man would take to having a discussion about his ex-wife so he left the question alone.

Lionel supposed that a few more days than what he had intended to give Celeste couldn’t do much more harm than the woman was already inflicting. “Agreed,” Lionel said.

While Celeste appeared to be the puppet master where Lex and Chloe were concerned, that was not true of himself. If he wanted to have a conversation with his son, he would do so.

Standing up, he said, “I’ll let you get back to work. Running my company into the ground because of this little project wouldn’t do at all.” He said it mostly to remind himself of that fact as well. Thankfully, all of the deals, contracts and meetings that he had scheduled took his mind temporarily off of their children.

Lionel walked out of the door, wondering how he could gauge his son’s feelings towards Chloe again without being too obvious and whether it was a risk that he was willing to take.

bluengreenswmer

11th June 2005, 21:17

that was great! I really think Gabe is right...let their relationship grow to the friendship level and then take action...

update soon!

beat u hfce!

LarkLuthor

12th June 2005, 00:24

I agree with Lionel I expected more from the woman...she had absolutly no idea what happened between Chloe and Lex, either time they interacted. How can she "know when they will react favorably" when she has no idea what was happening...I mean a few little listening devises would work wonders! Why doesn't she at least have some in Chloe's apartment?

Oh dear, I'm starting to think like a Luthor aren't I? *scrambles back to get reaquented with her naive and pure side before darkness fallows the ploting*

Anyway, yes, although I have been on Gabe's side this entire time about giving it time and not over reacting that does not mean the they are getting their money's worth out of the woman...she hasn't done anything helpful and could have done a lot more...I hope Lex and Lionel have a good chat, something needs to be done at least on the information gathering level.

Lark

dreamerjules

12th June 2005, 01:44

Love the update. Great Chlex interaction. They really are kindred spirits. Have to admit I'm looking forward to some Lex/Lionel and Chloe/Gabe chatting next update. Or maybe something where all four have to interact? Give the kids something else to bond over.

asharnanae

12th June 2005, 02:02

hehehe!! fantastic! I adore the burgioning chlex, and lionel and gabe..... they are just great!! this is such a winning scheeming fic, it makes me feel all naughty and warm, like I am in on a secreat I shouldnt be.. hehe!

love it!

hfce

12th June 2005, 03:40

vardaquareien

12th June 2005, 04:19

I really need to venture out of the NC17 section more often! Look how much of this ficcy I've been missing!

Fantastic fic! Really, really brilliant. I'm absolutely adoring Lionel in this he's simply a classic! Loving this entire thing and can't wait for more.

Gemkat5

12th June 2005, 06:00

“I swear, if it’s some Jesus freak looking to save my soul I will tell him that I’m Satan’s handmaiden” She put her bottle of water on the table and made her way over to the door.
I loved this line! I once had Jehova witnesses wake me up at 8am on a Saturday. I hissed when they held up 'the good book' then told them that touching the bible gives me hives....they ran away. :D

Now! About the story... Another great update, ladies!!!

“I was just about to order something to eat if you’d like to stay.” Her appetite hadn’t been the best in the past few days but she felt it coming back.
Yea, I bet her appetite was coming back. With Lex in her apartment, why wouldn't it? *EG*

I really liked the Lionable. It's nice to know that Lionel can be persuaded to have 'some' patience! And I like how both daddies thought the same thing... to try and get more info from their perspective children.

I like Celeste, though I can see why she annoys both men. She's not emotionally attached and therefore just doing her job, although its an intrigueing one for her. But in the end... I kinda hope that Celeste is fired and Lex and Chloe get together either by their own accord or Lionable's meddling. *shrugs* call me partial.

Can't wait for the next update!

meg20

12th June 2005, 13:06

Liked the interaction between our soon to be lovers very much.

The idea of pushing Chloe and Lex together on public ground and letting them develope a secure friendship first, sounds really great.

Celest is almost useless, but not totally, ´cause her idea of taking things slower is backing up Gabe and it helps him to distract Lionel for some time and it's good because he can't destroy all the success from the start and gives some head start for the others.

Ok good work ladies and let we have a nice update soon!!!:beg:

BellaMR

12th June 2005, 15:54

Loved the update ladies. I can't wait to see the next Chlex interaction. I just hope that Lionel does let this plan blow up in his face by pushing things.

autumngold

12th June 2005, 19:51

Lionel cracks me up!! I love how impatient he is, and how he doesn't like Celeste taking charge of his plan!! Thank goodness Gabe is keeping him in check!! Love the wonderful update!! Especially the Chlexy part!! You guys are amazing!! Can't wait for your next post!! :)

jaxie926

12th June 2005, 20:01

Though she was beginning to learn that the words easy, Luthor and Sullivan did not often mix. If they did this entire website would be nonexsistant! I'm glad that she's learning what all the authors here have to deal w/. LOL

“I swear, if it’s some Jesus freak looking to save my soul I will tell him that I’m Satan’s handmaiden” She put her bottle of water on the table and made her way over to the door. I have actually DONE this. The Jehova's witnesses out where I live are crazy, they come like every week and will NOT leave. Not to mention mom talks to them endlessly arguing catholocism vs. their beliefs so my house is a target. In high school I once answered the door with a satanic bible in my hand and introduced myself as "satan's handmaiden" and asked them in for a glass of tea. They quickly left and stopped coming! I laughed SOOO hard at this line. To think that someone would write my Chloe as doing the same. Completely laughable! Thanks.

“There weren’t many people in Smallville that I really and truly gave a damn about their opinion of me. You were one of them. And, I appear not to have grown out of that.”

That was unexpected. It was also a damn good explanation for why he hadn't been able to come up with a motive for her actions before. This one surely never had made it into his calculations. It was too, it was by far not jaded enough to ever make it onto his radar of possible motives.

He nodded, “Ok.” Ahhhh, starting to realize that they DO respect each other's opinions. I love this fic.

It was nice to see that there was one person just as stubborn as she was. Now she could use Lex in her disagreements with her father to refute his constant ascertain that she was the most stubborn and infernal creature on the face of the planet. I'd like to see her do this in her next arguement w/ Gabe and see if he can keep from letting anything slip to spark Chloe's curiousity.

Great update!!! Cannot wait for more!

LarkLuthor

12th June 2005, 21:55

I really need to venture out of the NC17 section more often! Look how much of this ficcy I've been missing!Gasp! That's possible? Wow...I don't remember the last time you did that!

Lark

ellelea

12th June 2005, 22:00

Hah! I love this! Great work, it's really well written and it flows so great - and so realistically. Sometimes there's just too many quick, unrealistic "'Oh, Chloe, I love you and have loved you for years.' 'Lex, I love you too!'" stories out there and this is refreshing. Both Lex and Chloe are really in character and I looove the way this story is going.

Keep up the great work. :)

ElizabethV

12th June 2005, 23:42

Gabe and Lionel working together to get Lex and Chloe to hook up- priceless. :) I love this story! It's so well written and absolutely wonderful! I'm glad that Chloe and Lex aren't at each other's throats anymore and are actually capable of polite conversations. Hopefully their relationship will improve quickly :) Please update soon!

Louie

13th June 2005, 04:33

I think Gabe is protesting a little to much about Celeste. but that's not what's important, what's important is that they had another conversation without fighting. woho.

SinnerSaint

16th June 2005, 07:24

How did I miss this story ? Where the hell was I? This story is great . I love the Lionel/Gabe interaction and can't wait for some more Chlex to happen so please update soon !

kimmie

17th June 2005, 13:02

Really love this story, don't know how I didn't see it sooner. Cannot wait for your next update.

Kimmie

LarkLuthor

17th June 2005, 13:16

Agh! I was hoping for an update when I saw new posts on this... Drat. I really need a new update!

Lark

star del mar

18th June 2005, 04:44

Awww, Lex and Chloe made up, I can only hope that this stalemate or whatever it is isn't short lived. A slow and steady pace is just the ticket I think even if it isn't overtly exciting...now Celeste just has to rein Lionel in. That should be fun :) Great update!

Steph*

LarkLuthor

18th June 2005, 11:59

update? Update? Oh where is my beautiful update!

Lark

BlueSabby

18th June 2005, 22:08

A/N: Blue: More chatting it up with the Luthors and Sullivans. Plus, it's the requisite club scene. Enjoy.

A/N Sabby: Uhm What she said. And well, yeah, what she said.

Shifting her feet on the ‘Welcome’ mat impatiently, Chloe wished that her father would open the door already. He was probably doing this on purpose. She noticed that a few of the windows were open in the house. The kitchen windows to be more accurate. So the smell of the cake that he had promised to bake her was wafting out to where she was standing.

It was pure torture. And her father delighted in doing it to her. He said it was payback for the numerous heart attacks that she had almost given him in Smallville.

Chloe rang the bell for a third time and was about to start beating on the door when her father answered it. He was smirking at her and she was trying to be a little mad at him. However, it was impossible because he was wearing a “Cooks do it better” apron and cooking mittens that looked like alligators.

Instead of laying into him, she started to laugh. “That’s a good look for you dad. You’ll be beating away the women.” She stepped into the house and gave him a quick hug and a peck on the cheek.

She hung up her coat in the closet and started directly towards the kitchen. “Feed me,” she stated as she sat down at the kitchen table and then looked up at her father, using the slight pout that had always gotten her whatever she wanted. When she was four.

Arching a brow at his daughter's act, Gabe turned around to look at her over his shoulder. “You know, if you were wearing pig tails and your favorite 'Hello Kitty' shirt, that might have worked,” he said.

Regardless, the food was almost done, so she'd get her wish, if she did a few things for him first. “You can set the table, then I'll feed you.” He pointed at her, with a free hand while turning the pancakes with the other.

Chloe got up from the table and rummaged around in the cabinets ignoring the fact that her father had just pointed his alligator clad hand at her. It was always a task finding where her father kept the plates. It seemed like he rearranged his kitchen on a weekly basis.

Looking over her shoulder she said, “You do know what I’m going to be wearing the next time I come here, right?”

She appreciated that her father had made her breakfast, the pancakes did smell heavenly and she saw some delicious strawberries on the table as well, but she wasn’t going to eat that much. A girl had to leave room for cake.

Finally finding the plates, she set them on the table and then went in search of the glasses. “How has your week been going? Lionel Luthor been cracking the whip as usual?”

Gabe shrugged as nonchalantly as possible, turning the pancake over once more before flipping it onto a plate. “Yeah, pretty much, he's after this huge deal that's giving him a headache, which of course makes him behave in a way that gives me a headache.”

He took a heaping spoon of fresh self-made strawberry jam and placed it in the middle, then folded the pancake in half with his skewer. “A little sugar on top,” he murmured to himself sprinkling the powdered sugar over the folded pancake.

“So, what's up in your corner of the world,” he asked as he set the plate down in front of her.

Hopefully she'd mention Lex somewhere in there. He couldn't ask about him directly, unless Chloe brought up anything related to him, which would hopefully happen before she got to the cake. Once she got to the cake, all conversation dropped because she fell into her own little zone.

When her father put her plate down in front of her Chloe knew that she wouldn’t be able to resist his pancakes. So, she’d just have to eat that and then the cake. She’d most likely feel sick for the next few hours but it would be worth it.

She cut into the pancake and shoved it in her mouth, moaning in appreciation. No one made a better pancake than her dad. After ensuring that she wouldn’t choke on the too big portion of food, Chloe said, “Not too much.”

Lex’s little stop by her house was indeed interesting but she wasn’t sure yet if she would mention it to her father. “Same stuff at work. I’ve been called in for a meeting in the morning so Patterson can tell me my schedule for the week.” She sliced off another piece of the pancake and made sure that none of the jam dripped on her shirt as she brought it to her mouth.

After taking a big gulp of milk she added, “I just hope that I won’t be stuck on the charity ball, society benefit and art opening circuit for much longer.” She wiped her mouth with a napkin and then muttered, “I think that I’ve been punished enough already.”

Gabe suppressed the whoop of joy, instead turned around from the stove once more and acted only half interested. “That's right, your editor sent you to that Museum deal a few nights ago, didn't he? Lionel told me Lex was there as well, I'm surprised you didn't run into each other. Good thing, though, isn't it?”

Now he'd got the ball rolling. As long as Chloe kept it rolling, things would be ok and he'd find out what the hell was going on. He'd read the damn report, he wanted to know details now.

While Chloe hadn’t intended on bring up Lex she wasn’t going to flat out lie to her father. He deserved better than that. He might meddle where he didn’t belong, drive her insane, deflect questions that he didn’t want to answer and hound her about her personal life but she always felt better when they had a good conversation about their lives.

“We actually did run into one another,” she started carefully, trying to gauge her father’s reaction. While he had worked under Lex in Smallville and had genuinely seemed to like him she wasn’t sure that it still held true after the blow out that the two of them had had. Her father was fiercely protective over her. Even when it wasn’t necessary.

Seeing that he was taking the news in stride she went on. “And, there wasn’t anything ugly about it.” She smiled as she said, “Well, other than the art that surrounded us, that is. I swear, it’s amazing how the rich will think something is pretty if they’re told it is.”

Gabe nodded, then turned back around to take care of some cleaning while he waited for Chloe to finish her pancake. “That's good, so does that mean you're back on speaking terms or did you just cut a deal about playing nice in public? How'd you avoid the press' prying eyes, anyway?”

So far, so good. They'd been talking civilly, and now he'd had it confirmed that they in fact did spend the time that both of them disappeared simultaneously, together. Good, very good. But then, what was the second visit, right the next day all about?

Chuckling, Chloe took another sip of her milk. “At least we have now confirmed where I got my thirst for asking questions from.” Her father was always curious about her life but she half expected him to start taking notes.

“Our meeting was actually because of the press’ prying eyes, as you put it. Truth is, we were both hiding. Well, at least, I was, I can’t speak for Lex.” Chloe pushed her plate away from her. She hoped that it would curtail her eating anymore of the pancakes.

“And, yes, we’re back on speaking terms now. I think that the truce may actually last more than five minutes, too.” She was certain that she and Lex had come to an understanding of some sort about each other.

People knew that Chloe was excellent at finding out other people’s secrets and that she shared little of her own with anyone else. However, her father was an exception. Plus, Lex’s trip to her place was a little too juicy to keep to herself. Plus, she wondered what his perspective on the whole thing would be.

“He came to my apartment the other night and we both ended up apologizing for our, um, little tiff at your place of work.” She knew that her father would have a reaction to this. If for no other reason than that she had apologized to Lex.

The skewer clattered onto the plate and Gabe went slackjawed before he could help himself. “Come again,” he asked incredulously.

From the report he'd been pretty sure they'd somehow gotten past their huge blow up, however, he'd never figured an apology anywhere into the process. Apologizing was something Chloe hardly ever did, and Lex didn't apologize for anything, simply on principle. “You mean, you apologized, and he apologized. Or was that just a figure of speech and the word 'sorry' was never actually spoken.”

This was fun. Chloe thoroughly enjoyed her father’s reaction to the news. It was even better than she thought it was going to be. Then again, it didn’t speak much about her character if her own father reacted to news of her apologizing to another person in the way he had. But, she wouldn’t think about that now.

Thinking back to their conversation, Chloe answered, “We didn’t use the word sorry. We just both apologized for what we said.” Chloe crossed one of her legs over the other and continued to look at her father. He still had that same dumbfounded expression on his face.

“I think that I’m insulted for both Lex and myself that you find this piece of new so fantastical. Anyway, you should be happy that we’re getting along again. That means no more spectacles where you work and no reason for Lionel to have me disappeared.”

Gabe was still trying to wrap his mind around the fact that both of them had apologized, openly to each other. “Sorry sweetheart, you know I love you more than life itself, but you're not exactly good at apologizing. And as for Lex well, right about now I'm thoroughly tempted to ask Lionel if his penthouse has frozen over.”

It was amazing. Just plain amazing. And it worked so well for their plan. If those two actually made exceptions for the other and could get along, things could turn out just the way they wanted and everyone would be happy. “I feel like cake now. What about you?”

All was forgiven at the mention of cake. Chloe sat up a little straighter and said, “I always feel like cake, dad. What a silly question.” Thinking about what her father said she might have to reconsider the way that she treated people. Of course, one could only apologize when one was wrong. And that rarely happened to Chloe.

Chloe then thought about something else her father had said. She picked up their plates and brought them to the sink. “Lionel? Does he make everyone call him that now?”

Gabe shrugged and busied himself with getting out the cake and cutting out two healthy pieces. “He offered it a while ago, since we're working so closely and have to show a united front or something. Whipped cream?”

She had to get in the zone as soon as possible. Gabe was in no mood to field uncomfortable questions. He'd gotten the information he needed and Lionel would be most pleased to hear about it, even though he would have to word it in a way that didn't send the other man right back to his 'going for the jugular' plan. Because that wouldn't work.

Chloe snorted at the second silly question her dad had asked within the span of two minutes. “Of course.” Her father practically covered the top of the cake in the sugary confection before handing the plate over to her.

As Chloe sat down at the table she said, “Now, let’s talk about when you’re going to start dating again.”
~~~~
Lex steeled himself mentally and swung open the doors to his father's office. If he had his way, this would be short and mostly painless, unless his father decided to 'chat a while' which he had done more often in recent weeks. It was part of the entire 'Lionel being Odd' debacle.

“Dad,” he nodded at the man that was the bane of his existence, on the better days, and strode up to his desk.

“Son,” Lionel said, completing the little greeting dance that the two of them usually did. He looked over the report that he and Lex were to discuss and asked, “You’re well, I assume?”

He thought that he would get the usual pleasantries out of the way right off. He and Lex actually did have business to conduct. But, he would find a way to bring up Chloe. If it didn’t happen naturally he had a back up plan so he wasn’t too concerned about it.

“Splendid,” Lex deadpanned. “And yourself?”

He hated this little pleasantry song and dance. They knew nothing about each other and everything said during it wasn't only farce but in most cases an outright lie. They'd tell each other they were doing great even if they were two steps from jumping off a bridge.

Lionel couldn’t help the small smirk that appeared on his lips. Mostly at the foolishness that he and his son were displaying now. Both keeping up appearances and hoping to give nothing away to the man sitting across from him. Well, he’d deviate from their usual repartee and see if it got him anywhere.

“I’d be better if you’d reconsider your decision to not produce an heir but other than that I find life acceptable.” Perhaps a little honesty would throw the boy off of his game. It was at least worth a shot.

Lex's face froze. Great, so his dad wanted to meddle again. “It won't happen. Now as for the Perkins case, I was thinking we should strike within the next three days if we want to take over without paying more than absolutely necessary.”

There would be no discussion of his private life; they would go through the report, finish the needed business and then part ways as soon as possible. That was that.

Lionel wanted to wonder where Lex had gotten his obstinacy from but knew it lay within his own bloodline. It did his son well in the business world but in other realms it was a factor that worked against him.

Thinking about the task at hand, Lionel said, “That would be the usual way to seal such a deal. However, I think that if we wait, if we are patient, you’ll see that we’ll have a more advantageous outcome.” Lionel had learned that the company had been hiding their money troubles from the world. When their quarterly report came out in a week’s time LuthorCorp could take over the company for half of what they were offering now.

“The same could be said about your personal life,” Lionel remarked offhandedly. He turned another page in the report and read over a chart that he already had memorized.

Lex's jaw was ticking already from the pressure he was exerting on it, grinding his molars. “Very well, if you want to wait before we take over. I was merely taking into account the fact that we might not be the only ones to know about their recent financial problems and that there's the possibility someone is going to take the corporation from under our nose.”

He flipped through the charts, half an eye on his watch. If this took much longer and if Lionel didn't give up on his not so subtle digs, he'd need a scotch before he even had lunch. “Anything else concerning this deal that we need to talk about?” He made sure to phrase his question specifically, it wouldn't do to give Lionel an opening for attack.

Lionel had been nodding along when Lex had first spoken. “I agree that there is always a danger of someone else taking what should rightfully be yours if you don’t act as you should.” Lionel knew that he was speaking of something completely different but Lex wouldn’t know that.

“But that’s a chance you have to take in this game, I suppose.” He could see that his son had been ready to leave the moment he stepped into his office and his comment about the heir had only exacerbated that emotion in Lex.

He was either going to make it worse or get down to the nitty gritty with his next few comments.

“I believe that is all I have about the deal for now.” His son got up and as he turned away Lionel said, “I do however have some concerns about your ‘disappearance’ during the art show last week. There are some faint rumblings that Chloe was also missing at that time. Care to comment on that? I figured I’d give you some practice for when the press asks you about it.”

There had been some speculation about that but it had only been from one or two sources and Lionel had quashed it before it had a chance to take root.

Lex didn't turn around, he simply inclined his head towards Lionel, keeping his spine straight and his voice even as he answered. “Simple, dad. The answer to any such question is: No comment.”

He wouldn't rise to the bait and since the press hadn't picked up on the incident, or it would have been all across the papers the day after the event, there was no need to get into this. “I'll see you next week then,” he said, turning his face back to the door and making his way out of the office.

'Old meddling bastard. And “taking the risk of someone else getting what is rightfully yours”? What the...' He threw the doors open with a flourish and made his exit, wondering what the ever loving hell had gotten into his father this time.

~~~~
The beat of the music thrummed in the background as all of the hot bodies of Metropolis grinded against one another. It was a good thing that all of the clothing on the women was too tight, restricting their breathing. Otherwise, the oxygen in the room would have been used up by now.

Chloe had never seen a club so teeming with people. Even if it was the opening night. When she was younger and had just moved to the city she had been into the club scene. But, she had grown out of it by now. She still loved to dance but what some of the people were doing on the floor looked more like a sexual assault than a dance move.

She considered what she was wearing provocative, simple but provocative, but it couldn’t hold a candle to the rest of the women in the place. Then again, they were a few years younger than she was. They would too learn that sometimes just showing a hint of what you had was much sexier than flashing your goods to anyone that passed by.

Smiling over at the acquaintances she had arrived with, Chloe made her way onto the dance floor. After a few minutes the stress of the last few weeks melted away as she found a sharply dressed, slightly older, good looking man to dance with. He knew not to grope her and kept spinning her around and around, most likely spurned on by her whopping laughter.

Lex looked down at the proceedings with a half interested eye. The music was good, the house was full of grinding, shimmying and in some cases what looked like outright fornicating people, while alcohol flowed in streams. Yes, he'd definitely made the right investment decision. Up on the V.I.P balcony and safely hidden from the raging crowd, he congratulated himself on his smart move, before turning around to the owner.

“If you can keep this standard, you'll be a rich man in no time Phillipe,” he raised his voice over the music, that wasn't as ear shattering as down below, but still well loud enough.

Chloe had actually broken out into a sweat. She had intended to mingle, to drink and maybe dance a song or two. But, half an hour later she had yet to make it to the bar. Her first dancing buddy had introduced her group to his group and that had been the end of Chloe’s plan to take it easy.

As she cast a glance around her, she saw various couples consisting of people she knew with the men, and some of the women, that they had just met. They were a little circle on the outskirts of the insanity of the club and that was just fine by Chloe.

Currently, one of the men, Daniel, was trying to teach her to tango. It was an utter disaster. She kept going forward when she was supposed to go back but he didn’t seem to mind. To be heard over the music she had to scream in his ear, “I’m going to get a drink. Twirl me over there, will you?” The bar was passing them as she spoke and he gracefully spun her to it.

Once she was stationary at the bar she cast Daniel a wink as two of her friends started to dance on either side of him.

After Phillipe had left him once more to his own devices, Lex returned to watching the gyrating mass below. Leaning on the banister of the balcony, he let his gaze sweep over the dancing crowd and towards the bars on either side of the dance floor. At second glance, he caught what he thought was a familiar figure, but it couldn't be. What were the chances that the one time he actually did go to a club, she would be there as well?

He took a closer look and when the blonde head turned to show him a face, he thought, 'Well, obviously not that bad.' Chloe Sullivan had unwittingly chosen the same club he had. Though for obviously different reasons, he added as an after thought as he watched a dark haired man approaching her from behind and wrapping an arm around her waist. Smirking, Lex kept watching the interaction between the two. He didn't think it necessary to brave Sodom and Gomorrah for a simple hello, when Chloe was obviously being entertained.

Chloe laughed at the horrible way that Matthew was trying to pick her up. He was using phrases like ‘rock your world’ along with ‘explosions like you’ve never felt.’ After three minutes of recounting the worst pick up lines he’d ever heard from guys, Chloe responded in kind.

He gave her one last squeeze and then went back onto the dance floor. Drink in hand, Chloe decided to explore the club. She had noticed a catwalk/balcony type thing and was curious to check it out.

Security had been a little bit of a problem but she had just blended in with some younger, slightly inebriated and definitely underdressed women and made her way to the top.

The balcony was unlike any other VIP area that she had ever seen. You could see the whole club from up here and there was a beefy bouncer every few feet along the rail. There were couches that looked like they were worth two months of her rent festooned with comfy, overstuffed pillows and she noticed that the ceiling was painted like the night sky, full of stars. When she stared at them, her suspicions were confirmed. They did, indeed, move.

As she made her way across the balcony she picked out her new and old friends still dancing together. She smiled at each bouncer as she walked around. Being nice to them usually paid out in the end.

Lex had watched her make her way across the crowd and towards the stairs that led to the balcony. Seeing as she was going to try and come his way, he'd asked one of the bouncers to relay the message that they should turn a blind eye, should the decently clad blonde try to come up. Obviously, it had been the right way to describe her, since she was the only one without a pass that had managed to make her way here.

By now, he was leaning back against the railing, watching her move past the bouncers with a friendly smile, her eyes flicking up to the ceiling several times and staying fixed there. Curious, he cast a glance up as well. Oh, right. The fiber glass ceiling with the moving firmament. When his eyes returned from the ceiling, his eyes met Chloe's.

When she caught sight of Lex, she started to shake her head and laugh. She hadn’t seen him for years and in the past few weeks they’d run into each other over and over again. Chloe started to make her way over to where he was leaning regally against the rail.

“You’re not going to charge me with stalking, are you?” She smiled easily up at him and took in his appearance. Elegant, dashing and sexy all at once. Some people had all of the luck of the genes and money. And a fruit loop for a dad, she reminded herself.

Some people might think that Lex led a charmed life full of just women, parties and extravagant houses, but she knew better. Briefly, she remembered what Lex had told her he wanted most years ago.

Lex shook his head, finding himself grinning back at her. Up close, she looked really good in her outfit. It complemented the toned curves he knew lay beneath it. “You couldn't have known I would be here, so that won't be necessary,” he answered.

Gesturing down towards the main floor, he asked, “So, what do you think of it?” After all, Chloe was a paying costumer. It couldn't hurt to find out if there was anything lacking and with her, he could be sure to get an honest answer.

Chloe turned towards the dance floor and took in everything. The panoramic view was quite helpful for that. There were numerous bars all in prime positions, the clientele was a good mix of different ages, well as different as you were going to get at a club, and not one fight had broken out yet.

She looked at the throngs of people and noticed that there didn’t seem to be an unattractive person or one that wasn’t either drinking, smiling, laughing or dancing. “I think that it’s a success. I’ve been to loads of these, as I’m sure have you,” she gestured to him with her drink, “and you can just feel when a place is going to tank.”

Looking back down at the dance floor she finished, “And I don’t get that vibe at all. The set up of the place is impeccable. It’s not too over done or fancy but also not common, if you will. Plus, the VIP section is kicking now that I’m here.” She glanced up at him and asked, “Do you concur?” She took a drink and then realized how pompous her last statement was. After swallowing her sip she said, “Concur with my assessment of the club, that is.”

Lex chuckled. How come he'd seen something like this coming? Honest, yes, but also with a tendency to speak before she thought. “Yeah, I do. The blue prints and design maps had me convinced before any of this was even built. And you forgot to mention the location. Everything from public transport to a private underground garage for limousines in the back,” he said, nodding at an business acquaintance who passed them. Turning back to Chloe he added, “Not that anyone who isn't on the V.I.P. list knows that it exists.”

P.R. had always been his strong suit, when he put his mind to it. Lex had learned the art of making it look like he'd let something slip, when in truth, he'd spread just the information he wanted to be known. In this special case, it didn't matter if Chloe went to spread the word or not. In case she did, it would help boost the clubs reputation among the ranks of the rich and famous, who would be drawn to such amenities, as well as with the running crowd, who would try to get in the club, hoping to catch a glimpse or maybe more, of one of the rich and famous.

“So in all of the spare time you’ve got after running the third most lucrative business in North America you decided to dabble in the club scene?” Chloe should have caught that, she supposed. But, she really wasn’t in reporter mode.

Contrary to what everyone thought about her, she wasn’t always looking for a story. When she was younger, yes, that had been true. Even when there wasn’t something to be found she would think zebras before horses even entered into her mind.

She still had a thirst for knowledge and if anything actually happened at the club she was certain that her internal switch would be flicked but she just wanted to enjoy herself tonight.

Taking another sip of her drink, she said, “Well, of course I know about the garage for the limos. Where do you think I’ve got mine stashed?” She laughed as a man who she recognized from the cover of Forbes did a double take at the haughty tone of her voice. “Hey, how ya doing,” she said as he passed.

Lex stifled the uncalled for laugh with a dignified cough behind his hand. The distinguished older man's eyes had bugged out so wide, for a moment it had looked like they would pop out of his head. As soon as the man was out of ear shot, he leaned over towards Chloe, still trying to smother the grin on his face. “And that was Edward Lawrence, number ten on Forbes' list of richest people,” he commented.

Sobering up a little, considering Chloe had caught on to something he did not want to be spread around the media, he brought them back on track of the conversation. “And as for dabbling in the club scene, not really. It's more a private investment for the future. Should the whole business mogul thing not work out as planned. Not worth mentioning, really.”

“Not work out,” she asked, a grin now firmly implanted on her face. “Yes, I’m sure that after years of running the company you’ll go and invest all of the money in some get rich quick scheme and have to declare bankruptcy.” She nodded her head as she said, “Seems very likely to me.”

Surveying the dance floor again, she added, “And you don’t have to tell me not to mention it. I can differentiate private and public conversations. Took a hell of a lot of practice but I think I’ve finally got it down.”

When she looked past Lex, she saw that Lawrence was still gaping at her. She leaned in a little closer to Lex and mock whispered, “You think he plans to make me wife number four? Or do you think he’s wondering how a ruffian such as myself got up here?”

Lex lifted his hand to rest it on her back as he answered, “If he did, you would be wife number 5 actually. But I think he's just surprised at your presence. Or more specifically, that you're here with me.”

He'd tried to make business with the man a few times, but due to clashing characters it had always failed. Lex didn't think much of the man or his lifestyle and the sums he'd demanded to get in bed with LuthorCorp hadn't simply been outrageous, they'd been over the top even for Dubai standards.

“Then again, it could simply be that you are a very attractive woman and your outfit is only underlining that fact,” he said with a shrug.

After leaving Smallville and the townsfolk with the pea sized brains behind, Chloe had become very accustomed to compliments. Especially from men. However, they sometimes came with an ulterior motive. To get her into bed, to get her phone number…..to get her to fact check a piece. It was rare that a man paid her compliment as straight forward and simply as Lex had just done. And she usually didn’t feel like she was sixteen again and giddy at the words. ‘Maybe it’s the men you surround yourself with,’ a voice that sounded suspiciously like her father said.

That was happening more and more whenever she looked at men as potential dates. It was getting very annoying, indeed. She ignored the voice and turned her attention to Lex again.

“Thank you,” she said simply. It was usually the best way to go. Chloe leaned forward in order to peer around Lex. The other man was still looking at her but turned away when he saw her looking at him looking at her. “But, from the shifty way he’s acting I think it’s the former rather than the latter.”

Lex’s hand was still on the small of her back and she felt him apply some pressure and draw her a little closer as a couple moved to stand on her other side. Chloe got the message and took another step towards Lex. Her curiosity was definitely peaked by the strange behavior of the man. But she reminded herself that she was out to have a good time so she let it drop.

Catching sight of a figure approaching behind Lex, Chloe sensed that trouble was on its way. In the form of what appeared to be a 21 year old, if even that, young woman slinking her way over to them. She knew the look in the woman’s eyes and groaned.

Off Lex’s look, she explained, “Prepare to be hit on.”

LarkLuthor

18th June 2005, 22:28

Oh! There are definate benefits to stalking the who's online list! I knew before it was up this was about to show up...and man what a chapter! Parental chats...club scene...ditzy brownette...

Loved the last line!

Update SOOON!

Lark

welshy

18th June 2005, 22:48

That was excellent, I hope there's going to be more soon

bluengreenswmer

18th June 2005, 22:49

Catching sight of a figure approaching behind Lex, Chloe sensed that trouble was on its way. In the form of what appeared to be a 21 year old, if even that, young woman slinking her way over to them. She knew the look in the woman’s eyes and groaned.

Off Lex’s look, she explained, “Prepare to be hit on.”

This was me after reading that paragraph: :rofl:

No joke!!!

Personally, I think Lionel will be very pleased with these new developments. I know I was certainly pleased.

Update soon! Here's a little incentive to update quickly. :cake:

dreamerjules

19th June 2005, 00:45

Wonderful update. Thank you.

Gee, will Chloe have to come to Lex's rescue? Ah, who cares? Just keep on schedule.

Julie

asharnanae

19th June 2005, 02:09

oh my god!!! this was just fantastic!!!! and just the funnyest thing ever!! I just couldnt helpmyself and kept speaking all the lines. I love it when I get so immersed that the words become pictures and the speach becomes sound!

LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!!!!

fussy_wuzzy

19th June 2005, 02:55

Off all the different character interactions, I think I like those between Lex and Lionel the most. There's something about the way they keep trying to outmaneuver each other that never failes to make me smile.
And that last line is a perfect tease for the next chapter. I'm already looking forward to the next update.

pipersmum

19th June 2005, 03:01

Great story so far can't wait for more is Chloe going to have to be all over Lex to put the 21year old off and will Lex like it? :P

star del mar

19th June 2005, 04:33

I always love the club scene, especially when Chloe and Lex have a chance meeting. That was a great update and I so love Gabe, he's able to weasle information out of Chloe better then anyone, lol, I guess it is genetic. As for Lex, still fending off Lionel's questions like a pro. I can't wait to see how Lex handles the girl :)

Steph*

Clannadlvr

19th June 2005, 04:49

Off Lex’s look, she explained, “Prepare to be hit on.”

*snerk* I just love how Chloe "gets it."

Great update!

Gemkat5

19th June 2005, 05:21

I absolutely loved this chapter!!! it had a little of everything all tied in! And this time I was smart, I took notes of my fave parts!!! (But not all of them cause that was a lot!) :grin3:

When her father put her plate down in front of her Chloe knew that she wouldn’t be able to resist his pancakes. So, she’d just have to eat that and then the cake. She’d most likely feel sick for the next few hours but it would be worth it.
I want some of Gabes pancakes too! They sound so goooood!!!!

“Sorry sweetheart, you know I love you more than life itself, but you're not exactly good at apologizing. And as for Lex well, right about now I'm thoroughly tempted to ask Lionel if his penthouse has frozen over.”
LOL! I actually laughed out loud when I read this! And i like how Chloe caught the first name familiararity.

...unless his father decided to 'chat a while' which he had done more often in recent weeks. It was part of the entire 'Lionel being Odd' debacle.
Even Lex is calling lionel odd, that's scary!
I like the club, was it taken from anywhere in particular or just your imaginations? I've actually seen the ceiling you described, it's neat as long as you don't stare at it too long or have too much to drink! lol!

Seeing as she was going to try and come his way, he'd asked one of the bouncers to relay the message that they should turn a blind eye, should the decently clad blonde try to come up. Obviously, it had been the right way to describe her, since she was the only one without a pass that had managed to make her way here.

I really love Lex sometimes. And his hand on her back? Priceless! Not to mention him complimenting her, and she mentally complimented him too when she had first seen him! I simply loved the entire scene!

Can't wait to see how Gabe explains to Lionel about them apologizing to each other, and I hope Lionel doesn't go off the deep end if/when he hears about them being in the club 'together'!

Very well written--all of it!

BellaMR

19th June 2005, 05:49

Excellant chapter. I hope Chloe protects Lex as much as he was her. Watch out ditzy girl. Chlex shall always conquer.

hfce

19th June 2005, 06:31

I am so glad they are getting along. Things are much smoother when that happens. :D

Hope ;)

leik2

19th June 2005, 07:04

Fun update. I can't wait for Lex and Chloe to clue into things.

SinnerSaint

19th June 2005, 07:26

I love this story ! Seriously , you need to update soon because you ended it on sort of a cliff ahnger and I am one of those people who opens their Christmas presents up like a year early. Seriously, I have absolutely no patience.

meg20

19th June 2005, 18:12

After a day of hard work I'm very happy to find an update to this story. So glad that there are more interactions between Chloe and Lex.Absolutely looking forward to see what happens next!
Update soon please!!!

autumngold

19th June 2005, 20:06

I love that Chloe and Lex are really getting to be friends now!! I hope that Lionel doesn't do something to screw that up!! Thank you so much for the excellent update!! I can't wait to see how Lex handles the woman at the club!! :)

Charlie

19th June 2005, 20:23

Excellent update!!! Not that all the other chapters hasn't been excellent. But we need more......

chril1

19th June 2005, 22:40

they're a cute couple

lea
xxx

vardaquareien

20th June 2005, 05:44

Are you proud, I ventured outta the NC17 section again? And it paid off....Updatage!!!

*ahem*

Loved the update. Gabe and Lionel's attempts to weedle information out of their respective offspring was a classic. I love how different both of their aproaches are! Gabe really reminded me of Chloe in his 'interegation'. Lionel on the other hand...well he's Lionel isn't he? You've written him so perfectly! I cack myself everytime I read him in this fic. He's just so hopeless when it comes to dealing with Lex! :grin: He ends up learning nothing and just making Lex think he's a crazy old bastard. I loved the “taking the risk of someone else getting what is rightfully yours" and the fact that Lex has absolutely no clue what he's on about! :rofl:

As for the club... wonderful! Yay, we've got Chlexy closeness developing!!! I love the way Chloe thought she was being all clever the way she got into the VIP section, yet it was actually coz Lex tipped off the bouncers. I can't wait to see what's going to happen with this chick who's about to hit on Lex!!!

jaxie926

20th June 2005, 07:31

It was part of the entire 'Lionel being Odd' debacle.
for some reason this particular line made me giggle… but then again, I really love Lionel

They'd tell each other they were doing great even if they were two steps from jumping off a bridge. I love that about them.

When she caught sight of Lex, she started to shake her head and laugh. She hadn’t seen him for years and in the past few weeks they’d run into each other over and over again. Children, this is what we lovingly refer to as a sign from TPtB… it would do the two of you well to start figuring this out. HOWEVER, as both Chloe and Lex are constantly clueless, thank God we have people like Blue and Sabby to make you do the things you’re supposed to!

And a fruit loop for a dad, she reminded herself. c’mon now Chloe, he wants you for his son, he’s not ALL bad! Even if he is nuts…

Plus, the VIP section is kicking now that I’m here.” She glanced up at him and asked, “Do you concur?” She took a drink and then realized how pompous her last statement was. After swallowing her sip she said, “Concur with my assessment of the club, that is.”

Lex chuckled. How come he'd seen something like this coming? Honest, yes, but also with a tendency to speak before she thought. Yeah Lex, but since you think too bloody much at least one of you gets to keep conversations going…

The other man was still looking at her but turned away when he saw her looking at him looking at her. “But, from the shifty way he’s acting I think it’s the former rather than the latter.”
Lex’s hand was still on the small of her back and she felt him apply some pressure and draw her a little closer as a couple moved to stand on her other side. Chloe got the message and took another step towards Lex. Her curiosity was definitely peaked by the strange behavior of the man. But she reminded herself that she was out to have a good time so she let it drop.

She knew the look in the woman’s eyes and groaned.
Off Lex’s look, she explained, “Prepare to be hit on.” awww… and now they’re protecting each other from the vultures… how sweet!

This story rocks! I love you guys… I just realized that as I commented on all the quotes I picked out that I was actually TALKING to fictional characters… ok so I never claimed to be sane… lol
But seriously, I love this story. Love your Lex and your Chloe. Obviously Gabe. But your Lionel kicks ass. Everyone does something different w/ Lionel… and I really like where you’ve taken him.

Louie

20th June 2005, 08:01

I find it hallerious that Lionel is spending all this money for help when Lex and Chloe seem to be doing fine on there own. Can't wait to see what the hit line will be.

ElizabethV

22nd June 2005, 07:18

LOL Prepare to be hit on. Your story is such greatness! Can't wait to see what they'll do =)

lexchloe

22nd June 2005, 11:17

Great update. Loved the Chloe/Gabe (mmmhhh cake) and the Lex/Lionel scenes. Really liked the club scene and I love that they're getting along now. Can't wait for the next one.

campbti

22nd June 2005, 16:30

Loved the update, the club and their banter to top notch. I can't wait for more. Especially some more parental meddling. Although I like how they are progressing on their own too.

BlueSabby

25th June 2005, 21:41

A/N: Sabby: Here we go fiends, and just so you know, this update is HUGE! we expect feedback to be the same *g*. Thank you for all the faithful feedbackers and kudos to those of you who actually take the time to venture outside the nc-17 section *winks*

A/N: Blue: Ok, a ten page update for you full of characters, body heat scans and general fun. On a different note, just wanted to say a quick thanks for the involved feedback we've been getting as of late. It's greatly appreciated.

Lex reacted to Chloe's groan, turning his head to find the source that caused it. A second later, said 'source' was right in his face. Melanie Turner, daughter of a business partner and unfortunately, as far as he knew, single. This could get complicated.

“Melanie, hello. It's been a while, how's the family?” Sometimes, Lex hated being brought up with manners, and a sense for business.

Melanie had been watching Lex Luthor ever since he had come up here. She had set her sights on him the last time he had a meeting with her father. Sure, he was older but she was going through a phase of older men.

She looked briefly at the woman next to him. Melanie knew that she wouldn’t be much competition. The blonde was squat and, well, blonde. Not something that Lex went for.

Addressing Lex, she said, “My family is good.” She certainly didn’t want to get into a conversation about her father so she quickly asked, “Are you enjoying the scenery?” As she spoke, she took off the floor length jacket that was over her dress.

Sure, the move was a little over the top and in your face but she thought that Lex would appreciate her being upfront. Plus, her breasts looked great pushed by the strapless bra that she was wearing. Not to mention the fact that her long legs were also accentuated by the shortness of the dress. Melanie had to admit that she looked altogether hot tonight.

Lex stifled the snide comment on the tip of his tongue, reminding himself that those 20,000 dollar breasts in the Prada dress and the 5 thousand dollar nose aiming at the skylight were worth about half a billion in contracts. Instead, he gave her a short once over, then turned his head to give the level below a sweeping glance. “I can't complain, and your outfit is of course tasteful as always,” he commented. Translation: She looked like a colorblind whore.

“Oh, where are my manners,” he said, turning halfway towards Chloe. “This is Chloe Sullivan, the daughter of one of my father's managers. Chloe, this is Melanie Turner, daughter of one of my associates.” he introduced swiftly.

The girl pulled a face at the way that Lex had introduced her. Chloe had to control herself in order not to laugh at the pout that was soon on her face in full force. Did Melanie really think that Lex would find that attractive?

Not to be deterred, apparently, Melanie took another step towards Lex and then ‘casually’ put one of her hands on the railing next to Lex’s body. She leaned over a little, pretending to be looking at the people below when she was really brushing her chest against Lex.

Young women today had no subtle seduction skills. Or, scratch that, this one didn’t. Chloe felt badly for Lex. It wasn’t as if he could just push the girl off of him. He was in business with her father and wouldn’t want to jeopardize their relationship.

“Nice to meet you,” Chloe said in a flat voice. The young woman ignored her and she looked over at Lex and shrugged her shoulders.

Lex didn't mind having an ample chest pressed against him. However, what he did mind was the intention behind it. The problem was, he had no room to step aside, and moreover, his stepping aside would have probably resulted in Melanie taking a steep nose dive over the railing due to gravity.

Instead he let her have her moment until she decided to lean back and stand on her own two feet once more. He'd never thought he could get claustrophobic, but it really hadn't been that far a reach just a moment ago.

Seeing as the brunette still hadn't answered Chloe, he arched a questioning brow at her, ready to wait.

When Melanie understood that Lex was waiting for her to respond to the Chloe girl, she gave her a very small, very fake smile. “Nice to meet you, too.”

Lex would probably be very thankful to be saved from having to make nice with the other girl. He looked obviously put out and Melanie found it hard to believe how the blonde didn’t see that. “Listen, Lex, I was just about to get out of here.” She looked him up and down, “Care to join me?”

She couldn’t wait to see the looks on her friends’ faces when she showed up with Lex Luthor. They would talk about it for at least a week.

“The crowd’s going to be very exclusive,” she looked over at Lex’s friend and added, “very young, too.” She knew that men like Lex preferred to be with girls her age. Made them feel younger.

He pitied her, really. Obviously, she wasn't very bright. Or whatever potential there was had been buried under years worth of misspent youth and fashion seasons. He had no idea how she could not have picked up on the fact that he wasn't interested, though. Or that he wasn't pleased at the way she was behaving towards Chloe. This latest slur was what made him seriously consider dropping the nice act and switching to blackmail instead. He opened his mouth to speak, but before he could, Chloe cut in front of him.

While Lex couldn’t be rude, that wasn’t true of Chloe. She could pretty much say whatever she wanted to. And intended to now. Call her old? Chloe didn’t think so.

“Melanie, your ineptitude at reading a situation is really quite impressive.” She kept her voice low but just shy of being threatening. Chloe knew that Lex wasn’t into personal contact so she didn’t drape herself over him as she spoke. But, she did weave her arm between the fabric of his shirt and the jacket that he was wearing.

She almost hoped that the girl wouldn’t get the hint. Scratch that, she did hope that Melanie was as dumb as she looked, that way she was free to really let her have it.

Lex was a little surprised at Chloe's outburst, and a lot surprised at the warm hand slipping along his waistline from out of nowhere, however he didn't intend on doing anything about it for the moment, except shifting a little into the movement and smirking to himself. Chloe couldn't do any damage, and if she could get rid of Melanie, all the better. It would save him the trouble of doing so.

It appeared as if things were slowly beginning to click in Melanie’s brain. Well, as much as one could expect out of that particular organ.

“You came with her?” Melanie heard her voice go way up in pitch but she honestly couldn’t believe that Lex would make time with whatever her name was. It was just too odd.

Chloe chuckled, really enjoying this. “Honey, Lex didn’t come with me.” She paused and let the girl have a little moment of pleasure. Then she added, “But I think that it’s more important that he’s leaving with me, don’t you?”

By now, Lex was trying hard not to show any emotion on his face. The look on Melanie's was just too damn hilarious for her own good. It was equal parts disappointed, outraged and absolutely incredulous. How this girl could ever think he would be leaving with her to go to some little get together of college students and play her catch of the night was beyond him.

Chloe was taking care of the situation quite admirably, even though he would have at least insinuated that they'd also come here together. But it looked like she wasn't done yet. He could only hope that whatever she said wouldn't lead to a cat fight, that might just be unhealthy for his business. Another thought occurred to him, but it was too late to stop her.

Before the girl could say another word, Chloe stepped away from Lex’s body and got right in Melanie’s face. “While you may be younger than I am, Lex knows that experience,” she drawled out the word, “trumps youth any day of the week.”

“For example,” she said, “have you ever…”

Chloe turned her body a little to the side so she could whisper in the girl’s ear. No need for Lex to hear all of the good stuff. Chloe was feeling decidedly evil and loving it.

Melanie openly gaped at the woman. “I thought not,” the woman murmured at her.

She leaned in once more and said, keeping her gaze fixed on Lex, “Have you ever made a man so crazy that…” she whispered the next few words in the girl’s ears and actually heard her gasp.

Lex couldn't hear just what Chloe was telling the girl, but it did have an extreme effect. It made him wonder as he let his eyes roam over Chloe's body once again. She did have a very well trained, limber body. He could just imagine what she'd be able to do with it if properly motivated. Lex stopped himself right there. Him and Chloe? The idea was ridiculous. They had trouble communicating for any stretch of time if there wasn't anyone else around to focus on. And he'd sworn off the whole business mixing with pleasure thing around the age of 25. She wasn't exactly business, but her father was working for his father, so close enough.

Speaking about business. If Chloe didn't stop soon, they would have a problem. He cleared his throat to draw attention to himself. “I think that's quite enough, now. You don't need to share all your secrets.”

Chloe laughed a little before walking over to Lex. One of her arms took its previous position on his body while she draped the other around the front of him. Her fingers toyed with one of his belt loops as she looked at Melanie. “Now, be a dear and run off, what I’ve got planned for Lex isn’t for the eyes of children. Adults only.”

Melanie wished that she could think of something to say. The problem was that she had all sorts of visual images in her mind from what the chick had whispered to her. “I have to go,” she blurted out. As she turned around she vowed to never think or speak of this again. It was too humiliating.

Lex watched Melanie storm off with one slow shake of his head before turning to look at Chloe. “Just what did you tell her?” Thankfully, it looked embarrassing enough that his earlier worries pretty much turned to dust.

Her hands were still on him and her little parting shot had put the idea of Chloe in a sexual scenario right back in his mind, with visual support. Needless to say, it had somewhat of an arousing impact. He really needed to have a talk with his cock about propriety and when it was alright to stand up and pay attention. Or more importantly, when it was not.

“She's gone, I think it's alright to drop the act now,” he said. At least his vocal chords were still obeying him.

Chloe took her hands off of Lex’s warm, nice, hard, well defined….and why was she thinking things like that? She didn’t want Lex. It was obviously some reaction to not having sex on a regular basis anymore. It had to be that. Because the other option was far too disturbing for her to even consider now.

“Hopefully for good,” she said. And hopefully Lex wasn’t still waiting for an answer to his question because she had no intention of divulging what she had whispered to Melanie. Lex, however, was now looking down at her expectantly.

“Come on, Lex, I’m not going to tell you. A girl’s gotta have some secrets, right?” When his gaze didn’t waiver she said. “Don’t you think it’s better to just come up with whatever you want it to be in your mind? That way it can be as dirty as you want.”

(author: This is what happens when you're skirting around the issue that you have no clue what was actually said) (Second author: Exactly!)

Chloe decided to keep to herself that there was no way that whatever Lex could imagine could hold a candle to what she had told Melanie. Then again, it was Lex. Unlike most people she knew, he probably could keep up with her with his bedroom stories.

Lex cocked his head to the side, shrugging it of with a smile and a quick jerk of his eyebrows. However, inside his head he was blocking any and all thoughts that her statement could have evoked with ruthless measures.

“In any case,” he said, dropping back on his heel to put at least some space between them again, “Thank you.”

Chloe waved her hand in the international sign for ‘don’t mention it’ and said, “I wouldn’t have done it if I didn’t want to. It was actually kind of fun. Actually, maybe you could lean against the rail again looking all sexy to ensnare another one of them. I’ve got plenty more insults where those came from.”

She smiled over at Lex and then gasped and jumped slightly as her pants began to vibrate. A little embarrassed she said, “Cell phone.”

Lex usually wasn't flattered by compliments. He'd heard a lot of them in many ways and in varying degrees of honesty, but the way Chloe had paid it, he found himself flattered. Maybe it was because she'd clearly not aimed for a compliment, but more for the amusement value.

When she jumped right back into his personal space, Lex took an involuntary step back, but had to stifle a chuckle when she apologized with a sheepish look, pulling a buzzing, squirming cell phone from her pocket. “Extra strong vibration,” he inquired tongue in cheek. “I'll leave you to it.”

Chloe let the vibration comment go…because it was a little too close to the truth for comfort and shot Lex a look before answering the phone. The connection wasn’t the best and she turned away from Lex and took a few steps.

Her friends were leaving and they were looking for her. After assuring them that she would be right down and meet them at the car, Chloe turned back to Lex. Or where he should have been.

“What is it with Smallville men and disappearing behind my back!?”

~~~
Celeste got off the phone with Lionel Luthor for what seemed like the twentieth time in the last few hours. She had called a meeting for nine thirty so she could brief both he and Gabe on the latest developments. She now knew to only call him three minutes before a meeting. He had been calling her non stop to find out what had happened. However, she didn’t want to repeat the story, and her findings, twice. Plus, she figured that Gabe would be helpful for keeping Lionel in his chair.

Lionel had called her at five a.m. and insisted that the meeting be moved up to six thirty. Which is why instead of her usually severe business suit, she was wearing a pair of dress slacks and a man’s button down shirt. She had intended to make a run to the drycleaners before the meeting but nothing was open at this time.

She could hear Lionel ranting as she made her way to the secret conference room. Celeste ran a hand through her still damp auburn hair and then walked into the room, shutting the door behind her.

“Good morning, Lionel.” The man just glared at her. She put her briefcase on the table and turned towards the other man, “Gabe,” she said, while nodding at him.

Narrowing his eyes, Gabe spoke before even looking up at the woman from the papers he had on his lap. “Gabriel,” he corrected. “And good morning to you, too, Celeste.”

Putting the papers aside and on the desk in front of them, he finally looked up at the woman. And blinked in surprise. Instead of the immaculate ice queen in business suit stood a frazzled red head with damp hair and in hastily pulled on slacks and shirt.

Gabe remembered vividly how his first few days here at LuthorCorp headquarters had been. He'd become used to getting dressed on a moments notice if Lionel had one of his whims. Giving the outfit another once over, he noticed for the first time that she was somewhat attractive. Pity that she had a pitbull persona.

“Yes, glad we’re all agreed that it’s a fantastic morning,” Lionel said. They didn’t have time for such pleasantries. “What is it that you’ve called us here for?” He sat down at the table and waited about five seconds for Celeste to take some photographs out of her briefcase before saying, “I asked you a question.”

Celeste was quite used to impatient men so she started to speak before she had all of her visual aids out. “Your children accidentally bumped into each other last night at a club.” She looked up and caught the pleased and surprised expression on both of their faces.

She slid the glossy photos across the desk. They had been placed in two bundles and arranged in sequential order. “When I found out that they would both be attending the opening, I called in a favor,” Celeste briefly smiled at the way the billionaire had tried to weasel his way out of helping her, “and instructed someone to call me if the subjects spoke for more than a few minutes.”

Lionel and Gabe were already flipping through the pictures, only half listening to her, so she waited until they got to the pictures towards the end. The ones of Chloe draped all over Lex’s body. In one particular shot, you couldn’t see the woman, Melanie Turner, that had caused the reaction. You could only see Lex and Chloe staring at one another. She expected that the men would focus on that shot.

Gabe looked at the last three pictures, his eyes widening as he saw just where Chloe's hands were on Lex's body and exactly how close they were standing. However, pulling up the shot before the one he was looking at, he could also see another woman in the frame. A rather put out young thing that really should consider changing the way she dressed or she would give some poor father a heart attack sooner rather than later.

He opened his mouth to inquire about the woman, but Lionel cut in before he got to ask his question.

“Did they go home together,” he asked as he placed the most interesting photos on the table in front of him. If they had, he would fire Celeste straight away for not opening with that crucial news.

Looking closely at the photos, Lionel scrutinized the look on his son’s face. He didn’t seem put off by Chloe’s arms on him and was gazing intensely at her. This was a good sign.

Celeste thought that the men were nothing if not predicable. Gabe, not Gabe, Gabriel…had looked at the photos and not jumped to conclusions whereas Lionel had not jumped to one but leapt to it. And a conclusion that went against what Lex was like now.

“No, they didn’t,” Celeste answered, quickly. She took a few more photos out of her briefcase but didn’t give them to the men. “We were able to pick up some of the conversation between them with high powered mics. Long story short,” Celeste moved around the desk to stand between the men and pointed at Ms. Turner in Gabe’s photo, “this woman was coming on hard to your son.”

Lionel’s eyes narrowed and he now noticed that the other woman was in pretty much every shot as well. Or at least part of her was. Looking at the way she was dressed and seeing that she was obviously very young he knew that Lex would have shot her down. But, he also recognized the woman as the daughter of a business associate. So, Lex would have had to have tried to be tactful.

Once Lionel’s gaze was fixed on the woman, she turned back to Gabe, “And Chloe stepped in to send a clear sign to the girl that Lex was not interested.” Celeste stretched across the table to reach the papers that were beside the next batch of photos. “Here’s what we could transcribe from their conversation.”

She handed the typed sheets to the men and let them read it as she sat down in a chair on Gabe’s right.

Gabe read the transcript closely. Of course there was no audio, so he didn't know exactly how Chloe had said the words she'd spoken to Melanie, but even just reading it, he could hear the spit fire tone in his mind. He could even pin point the exact moment this Melanie girl had made the mistake and gotten Chloe involved. It was the moment she'd called his daughter 'old'.

“Yeah, I wouldn't have expected anything less from her,” he muttered to himself.

As he came to the end of the text and Lex's little joke about the cell, he couldn't help but chuckle. Chloe was his daughter and fathers were supposed to believe in all eternity that their daughters were innocent little angels, but that illusion had went out the window for Gabe long ago, and he had to admit, he wondered himself why she'd have her cell phone vibrating at a strength that sent it right off the table if she didn't pick it up after a few rings.

Lionel ran a hand over his face and tried to concentrate on the positive aspects of what they were looking at. Their children had most definitely made up, they appeared to be friends and Lex had even allowed Chloe to both help and touch him. But he was still disappointed that they hadn’t taken any further steps. Hell, they hadn’t even been able to confirm that they found one another attractive. Yes, they had both paid compliments to one another, but words were far different than actions.

He looked over the conversation and knew that Chloe’s words would have peaked Lex’s interest. They would have done so to any man with a pulse but the conversation and pictures were not hard evidence to support the theory that they, at the very least, wanted each other physically.

“Are these all you’ve got,” he asked as he picked up the pictures. “I’ve got to say that you’re not making very good progress.” He was angry at both Lex and Chloe and decided that Celeste was the best person to take it out on. “What am I paying you for if you aren’t actually doing anything to get our children together?”

Even though Lionel had listened to her at their first meeting when she told him that surveillance was the first step and would last at least a few weeks, Celeste knew that he hadn’t really heard her. “You’re paying me to know when to step in and when to leave them alone. And, no, that’s not all we have.”

She slid the other pictures to the men and said, “These are bio and thermal scans. Now, the results aren’t hard data. What is happening in these pictures could be attributed to a myriad of other things. The temperature in their environment, something that they are thinking about or the fact that they had both had a few drinks.”

The men flipped through the pictures and Celeste explained what they were seeing. “However, it is interesting to note that both of their temperatures went up a discernable amount upon contact.” She waited until they got to one picture and said, “Chloe’s body, in particular, got heated when she started to increase her contact with Lex.”

She saw both them flipping through the pictures, comparing the amount of red swirls present in the outline of Chloe’s body when she was away from Lex and then touching him. There was a definite upswing in the hue of yellow and reds. While Lex’s body did not show such a dramatic change, it was clear that his body temp also did increase.

“Lex’s body reacted a little differently.” She waited until they got to the next few pictures. “These next pictures are a new technology that we’ve been using. It traces the flow of blood throughout the body.”

She waited until they got to a specific picture that was vastly different from the rest. Chloe was still draped around Lex and it was clear that the blood in his body had started to concentrate in his groin.

“That picture is after Chloe told the young woman that what she had planned for Lex was for adults only.” She leaned back in her chair and couldn’t help but say, “I don’t think you need any help interpreting that one.”

Gabe bit the inside of his cheek. “No, definitely not.”

Pushing aside the fact that it was too much information for any father, or employee for that matter, it was good news. They were at least physically attracted to each other. That was good. But, it didn't solve their problem. It just raised their chances a little. The problem was, physical attraction didn't have to mean anything. What if they decided to jump into bed and leave it at that? It wouldn't do at all for the long time plan.

“So how do we assure that physical attraction isn't the only thing there is between them? Because we're not aiming to get them in bed, we're aiming to get them in front of the altar.”

Celeste was glad that Gabe had brought up that point. It was what she wanted to address today. “We have to use their actions as a guide.” She looked over at Lionel and stressed, “Their natural actions.”

“I know that you both want this to happen as soon as possible,” Celeste understood that they wanted to see their children happy with people that were worthy of them, “however, it must be done delicately.”

Lionel knew that she was talking about him and did not appreciate it in the least. “That’s all well and good, observing them and making your little notes but how long can that go on before we give them a push in the right direction?”

He wanted to be able bodied enough to enjoy playing with his grandchildren…and watching Lex attempt to control them.

“When are we allowed,” he sneered the word at the woman, “to get involved? I’ve been holding off on saying anything further to Lex but I don’t know how long I can continue doing that in good conscience.”

She hadn’t expected anything else from Lionel but it was still disappointing to realize that not only would she have to contest with the children getting into their own way but also Lionel as well. Some actions just might have to be taken against the man. But she would hold off on that for now.

“That is the next step. I want you two to make situations which allow your children to seek each other out and interact in an environment that does not include alcohol or Chloe being scantily dressed and pressed up against Lex.” She looked over at Lionel, “But nothing too brash. Your children are not dumb. If they catch wind of this….”

Gabe's hackles raised at that last comment, his thread of his patience cut. In an instant he was out of his seat. “Celeste. I will not allow you to speak in that tone of my daughter. She was not, is not and will most definitely never be 'scantily dressed' as you just put it. In fact, she has impeccable taste, barring her choice of men and I will not let you insult her, or Lex for that matter, in any way, shape or form.”

It didn't matter that technically Lionel was holding the strings, he wasn't done. Leaning over the table he got right in Celeste's face making sure the only thing in her line of sight was his glare. “And if you ever misplace your tone like that again, you can walk right out of that door,” he pointed at the door in question, not breaking the eye contact, “And try to find another job in this country, and I promise you, it won't be easy.”

If she had expected to be threatened by one of the men in the room, her money would not have been on Gabe. He had been the calm one throughout the whole situation, thus far. But she should have known not to say anything that could be misinterpreted as a disparaging remark about Chloe. Gabe was clearly totally and utterly devoted to his daughter. It could be the only reason that he would put himself through this.

She didn’t think that explaining to Gabe that she hadn’t been insulting his daughter, just making an observation from her perspective comparing how Chloe usually dressed to the way that she was dressed in the club would get her very far. One didn’t mess with fathers and their daughters.

Celeste hadn’t flinched when Gabe had gotten close enough to feel his breath on her face as he spoke. The situation didn’t need to be made any worse by her either recoiling or pushing him away from her.

Levelly, she said, “I apologize for what I said about Chloe. It was never my intention to insult her. I will be certain, however, to make sure that it does not happen again.” She didn’t address his threat about her career.
“Good,” he answered, and then kept the eye contact as he slowly leaned back once more until he was standing straight. “Now, how do you plan to create these situations? In case it escaped your notice, it's virtually impossible to make them run into each other. We tried, but they have a knack for escaping those situations without even knowing it.” He crossed his arms, waiting for an answer.

Lionel was impressed with the way that Gabe was handling the situation. He was happy to not be the one playing the bad guy now. He could just sit back and enjoy the other man making all of the points that he had.

“I don’t intend to create the situations,” Celeste explained as she looked up at Gabe. “I want to see if they will take it upon themselves to seek each other out if the opportunity presents itself. Or if they will now be able to be in a room together without one or both of them picking a fight.”

Celeste needed to see if the two of them had finally accepted the other’s presence in their lives. If they were still on guard when they were around one another, nothing else could be done. But, Celeste needed a chance to observe them interacting in a regular setting.

“So what do you want us to do? Casually drop in a situation that 'Oh Lex, by the way, Chloe's going to be in her gym, Friday, five pm, and don't be late?'. Or how about 'Hey Chloe, did you know that Lex is going to be at that charity dinner, next Saturday, 9 pm, invitation only.' That's not going to be suspicious at all.”

He didn't understand what the hell Celeste meant with creating situations. If it was simple, they'd have already done it, without having to be told by a woman who obviously thought it was easy as pie to get Chloe and Lex to do what she wanted them to do. “They're not going to go actively seek each other out on their own. I can tell you that much right now. They're not moving in the same social circles.” He shook his head.

“That they bumped into each other in that club was sheer pot luck. Lex hasn't been out partying for, how long?” With his last question he turned to Lionel, because he couldn't even remember the last time Lex had shown up at work with a hang over.

“Years,” Lionel said while waving a hand in the air. Lex now distained going out where a woman exactly liked Melanie Turner would try and get her claws into him. Lex liked to pick up the poor excuses for women that he dated elsewhere.

He was also curious as to how Celeste planned to get the two children to have another conversation again. Gabe was correct in saying that they had been lucky last night. And luck was something that neither he nor Gabe had an abundance of so he thought that they had to rely on something else from now on.

All of the points that Gabe made were valid and he was asking the right questions. “What I am talking about now is more of an exploratory experiment.” She looked between the two men and said, “The next time that they are both in this building I suggest that you,” she turned to Gabe, “begin to leave the building with her. Lex’s office is on the way out. At that time, I would like you,” she looked back at Lionel, “to come and take Gabe away. Chloe will be in full view of Lex’s office. I want to see if she attempts to initiate contact.”

She leaned back in her chair and crossed one leg over the other. “We all know that Lex would not seek her out, at least not at this point. So, we will have to see how willing Chloe is to do it.”

“This is not a huge step forward but I don’t believe that taking chances is worth it right now. I want to see if Chloe will think to find Lex, actually follow through with it and then monitor their conversation.” It was a simplistic plan that could be dashed in an instance.

However, Celeste knew that Chloe liked getting the last word and that turning around to find Lex gone had annoyed her. She would have something to say about that. She didn’t believe that Chloe would harbor any ill will towards Lex. Just that she needed to make her point. Or, at least that was how the woman would rationalize it to herself when she went to find Lex. Theoretically.

Gabe smiled tightly. He had to give credit where it was due, this might actually work. “Okay, that sounds like something we can do. Except that it still leaves some things to coincidence. We have to again try to get both of our children in a certain place at a certain time. And with those two,” he let the sentence dangle, turning to Lionel.

Actually, Lionel didn’t think that it would be too difficult to ensure that Lex was in his office when Chloe stopped by. Provided he knew when Chloe was stopping by. If she and Gabe were slated to have lunch, Lionel would be sure to give Lex enough work to keep him holed up in his office. But he had to be sure not to give him too much work that he didn’t have time to speak with Chloe.

There were numerous contracts that Lex was involved in. Lionel could simply make a call and set things in motion for one of the investors to get cold feet. Lex would then have to pull together a ton of research in order to convince the person to stay in the deal. It would take a few hours, tops, but it wouldn’t be so stressful that Lex wouldn’t look forward to a welcome distraction. In the form of Chloe.

“I could set it up on my side without much fanfare,” he commented. He decided that he wanted it to happen sooner rather than later so he added, “It would have to be within the next few days, though. Because of contractual procedure.” Bold faced lie but it didn’t much matter.

Gabe didn't comment on Lionel's condition, even though he knew that there was no 'contractual procedure'. Whatever Lionel planned or did these days was pretty much subordinated to one schedule. The schedule of their plan and that schedule planned a wedding preferably before summer rolled around. The man had no patience when it came to this. Not that Gabe minded too much, it ensured that things wouldn't go too slowly in any case, however Gabe himself had to stay on his toes to make sure Lionel didn't rush the wrong things and ruined everything. Regular walk on the wire it was.

Still turned towards Lionel, he said, “We'll figure it out this afternoon, I'm sure Chloe won't be adverse to having lunch with her old man tomorrow.” That way, they didn't only stay within Lionel's desired time frame, but their children would also have something to talk about, considering that their night out wasn't too long ago.

Celeste nodded. “That sounds like an acceptable time frame.” She pulled out another few pieces of papers and slid them over to Lionel. “I will need your signature on those. They are work requisitions in order to have cameras installed in Lex’s office. They will only be there for the duration of time that you indicate on the designated line.”

Before Lionel could make a comment, Celeste stood up and said, “I assume that your lawyers will have to go over them before being returned to me. The actual installation will have to take place tonight so take your time in getting them back to me.”

She began to clear the table of the papers and pictures that were strewn about. She kept all of the relevant data filed in a database in her office. “Do you gentleman want to keep anything I’ve shown you today?”

Gabe reached out and took one of the pictures, the one that had captured Chloe and Lex standing close and focused entirely on each other without Melanie to ruin the effect. Without comment, he put it into one of his files. It would look good in a picture album one day somewhere down the line. Of course he'd have to explain how it got there than, but since that day was probably years away, he wouldn't worry about it until he crossed that bridge.

“We'll get the contracts back to you this afternoon.”

Celeste suppressed the grin that threatened to break through on her lips at Gabe’s actions. If he saw it she thought that she would surely be fired. “That sounds good. Anything else before I’m off?”

Never leave without being dismissed was a crucial lesson that many in her field never learned. One always needed to remember that your employer was the one in control. A lot of people forgot that when they were playing god.

“Just this.” Lionel got up and rebuttoned the jacket of his suit. “The placement of the cameras must be done precisely and carefully. “My son will not react kindly if he finds any of them.” Lionel imagined Lex tearing apart his office. Again.

“Understood,” Celeste said. She had no intention of outing their little project in such a sloppy way.

Lionel nodded. “I believe that’s all. Gabe?” He wanted to make sure that the man didn’t want to levy anymore threats Celeste’s way.

Gabe got up as well, mirroring Lionel's actions. “No, for now that's all.” He wondered what Lionel's little comment had been about and especially the tick under his left eye that had directly followed it. It wasn't an obvious sign, but if you knew the man as well as Gabe did, it was obvious enough to know that it meant something. Maybe it was better if he didn't know though. The Luthor family dynamics could be quite scary and he had a feeling that this, whatever it was that had caused Lionel's tell tale sign was part of them.

“Celeste,” he nodded towards the woman dismissing her effectively from the room and his mind for the time being.

“Gabe…rial.” Damn, she had almost called him by his nickname again. She would have to practice that one. He just didn’t look like a Gabriel to her. “Lionel. Thank you both for your time.”

As soon as Celeste left the room Lionel picked up the phone and started to put his plan into action so that Lex would be where he should be when Chloe stopped by the next day.

teejei

25th June 2005, 22:17

oh, joy! update! :D

the club scene was a hoot! Melanie just had to insult Chloe. poor girl didn't know she should have seen that one coming! never insult the snarky blonde with connections to the bald billionnaire you're seducing. :P

and that new technology Celeste and her team used...very perceptive. :grin: now that the physical attraction has been established, Chlex would now have to get past the emotional barriers.

and the Gabe-Celeste-Lionel dealings are very entertaining to read. i just hope the new plan would go smoothly.

p.s. just wondering...how the heck would Chlex react when they find out about their fathers' matchmaking? guess i just have to stay tuned to find out. :D

lexchloe

25th June 2005, 22:41

Awesome update. Loved the club scene and Chloe and Lex getting all up close and personal.

Before the girl could say another word, Chloe stepped away from Lex’s body and got right in Melanie’s face. “While you may be younger than I am, Lex knows that experience,” she drawled out the word, “trumps youth any day of the week.”

“For example,” she said, “have you ever…”

Chloe turned her body a little to the side so she could whisper in the girl’s ear. No need for Lex to hear all of the good stuff. Chloe was feeling decidedly evil and loving it.

Melanie openly gaped at the woman. “I thought not,” the woman murmured at her.

She leaned in once more and said, keeping her gaze fixed on Lex, “Have you ever made a man so crazy that…” she whispered the next few words in the girl’s ears and actually heard her gasp.

Lex couldn't hear just what Chloe was telling the girl, but it did have an extreme effect. It made him wonder as he let his eyes roam over Chloe's body once again. She did have a very well trained, limber body. He could just imagine what she'd be able to do with it if properly motivated. Lex stopped himself right there. Him and Chloe? The idea was ridiculous. They had trouble communicating for any stretch of time if there wasn't anyone else around to focus on. And he'd sworn off the whole business mixing with pleasure thing around the age of 25. She wasn't exactly business, but her father was working for his father, so close enough.

Hee hee, and so it begins!!! Kept coming up with a lot of interesting things regarding Chloe's whispered words to Melanie. Thank you for dragging my mind into the gutter!!! *to be fair it practically lives there anyway* :D

Love the Lionel/Gabe/Celeste scene. Lionel as usual is hilarious in how eager he is to get them together quickly.

Is it just me or am I sensing a little something something between Celeste and Gabe? Or am I just reading too much into the tension? Can't wait for the next phase of the plan to go into action and for the next Chlex scene. Great job guys.

SinnerSaint

26th June 2005, 00:26

Hah! I love snarky Chloe ! So very glad she told that stupid wench off !

fussy_wuzzy

26th June 2005, 01:09

The club scene was excellent. I loved how Chloe put Melanie in her place. My favorite part of this chapter had to be the Lionel/Gabe/Celeste scene. It's hilarious how eager Lionel is to get down to business. And Gabe and Celeste are just too cute. Great chapter!

hfce

26th June 2005, 02:04

Gab & Celeste sitting in the tree kissing. LOL! Gab is so falling for her its to funny.
I love the beat down Chloe gave that bitch whats her face. She was in top form and her touching Lex was inspired. Its funny how she thought nothing of it. Yeah she is falling for him to. Like Father, like daughter. :D
Great update more please.. :beg:

Hope ~

jaxie926

26th June 2005, 03:15

snarky!Chloe makes my day!!! WOO HOO! *does happy dance*
Great update!!! :D
Can't wait to see the office interaction!

And btw... even OUT of the nc-17 section, you two STILL managed to get minds in the gutter w/ that whole whispering in the slut's ear scenario!

:blinkkiss

Krysia

26th June 2005, 03:34

The scene in the club was awsome. I wanted to scream at Chloe, U go girl! Stupid little girl calling her old. That's like one of the universal nono's [ right next to calling a girl fat]. But he part I loved the most was the report about the progress of the Chloe Lex relationship. You just blew my mind away with your ideas. The fact that they can evaluate their reaction to each other through body heat. Wow! Can't wait to see what you will come up with next.

Not An Addict

26th June 2005, 03:54

*cue evil laugh*

I love it. Absolutely love it. I'm glad Lex and Chloe are finally getting along, because if they had kept acting like idiots I was going to pull a Parent Trap on them and lock them both in the same cabin until they learned to get along. And since that cabin may very well now be reserved for Gabe and Celeste, it's just as well that I never had to do that. Hrmph. Silly couples not going along with what is obviously fate.

Loved the club scene; it was fun seeing one of those that didn't involve Lex and Chloe getting freaky on the dance floor. (Though I'm a big fan of that scenario, as well. ^_~) Can't wait to see how long the two of them keep denying their attraction to each other. And how long after that their personalities keep clashing on a regular basis.

Personally, I wouldn't mind another physical fight scene. Preferably ending with one of them pinning the other. ^_^

More please!

leik2

26th June 2005, 04:17

Fun chapter, snarky chloe is always good. The daddys are great.

BellaMR

26th June 2005, 04:33

Hey.... I frequently venture out of the NC-17 forum.... sometimes there are no new updates and I need to feed my Chlex addiction.

Great update. I loved the club scene and am thrilled that Chloe left that girl speechless. I think you ladies should try to figure out what she might have said, though. Could be a fun demonstration for later. Or Lex can randomly call her with guesses as to what she said. (Yes, I am desperately trying to drag this fic into my favorite forum.)

I liked seeing Gabe's claws come out. Too often he's written as a push over. This is a great characterization of him.

I do have one concern. That photo is going to eventually bite them in the ass. I thought evidence wasn't supposed to leave the "warroom." Its definately a ticking time bomb.

Gemkat5

26th June 2005, 05:08

Are you SURE that was ten pages? *goes back to story-scroll...scroll...scroll...scroll...* yea, I guess it could be. hmm.

Ya know, this story is like a bag of popcorn at the movies... you don't realize how much you eat until you hit the crumbs on the bottom!!! (You know that was a compliment, right?) :D

Well, besides the fact that I once again absolutely LOVED this chapter, I have to admit that this little tid-bit had me laughing out loud!

“Don’t you think it’s better to just come up with whatever you want it to be in your mind? That way it can be as dirty as you want.”

(author: This is what happens when you're skirting around the issue that you have no clue what was actually said) (Second author: Exactly!)

Chloe decided to keep to herself that there was no way that whatever Lex could imagine could hold a candle to what she had told Melanie. Then again, it was Lex. Unlike most people she knew, he probably could keep up with her with his bedroom stories.

To be more precise: I loved the club scene! I loved the body heat read-outs! I loved Gabe's reaction to defend Chloe! I loved how Lionel loved Gabe taking control of the situation! In short...

I loved it! Loved it! loved it!
(but I hate that I have to wait for more!)

kcsgirl82

26th June 2005, 05:13

Please update soon!!!! I love the whole lionel and gabe scheming to get their kids together.

welshy

26th June 2005, 13:57

I loved it, especially snarkChloe the way she dealy with Melanie was brilliat. And I couldn't help but grin when Gabe got over-protective when he thought Celeste insulted Chloe :) I hope there's going to be more soon

dreamerjules

26th June 2005, 22:21

Brilliant update.

Loved Chloe sticking up for herself and her friend, Lex. What a dumb little club bunny.

Adored the Lionel/Gabe/Celeste scene. Gabe would definitely take down anyone who insulted Chloe, even Lionel. I'm also on the Gabe/Celeste ship. Talk about finding someone worthy.

Julie

chril1

26th June 2005, 22:39

noooooooooo!!! i want lionel and celeste together, or none of them together, i dont really want those two separated by celeste.

but on the chlex front??? veeerrrrry nice

can't wait to see how the new plan pans out

lea
xxx

vardaquareien

27th June 2005, 01:14

Muahahahaha!!! Thermal body scans and blood-flow scans oh my!!!!! Loved it! This chappy had me in hysterics throughout but the body scans.... :rofl: ...I don't think I'll ever get over them!!!

Now for the rest. Chloe's verbal smackdown of Bimbo McSlut was phenomenal. Loved the whole whispering and the implication that Chloe's just as experienced and naughty as Lex! Loved their UST. Wonderful stuff!

As always I loved the Lionabe meeting with Celeste. The hints of Celabe were a nice touch. Loved Gabe's defense of Chloe (and Lex).

Can't wait for the next planned 'impromptu' meeting to take place!

campbti

27th June 2005, 03:49

Excellent update, the club scene was priceless. Can't wait for more progress.

star del mar

27th June 2005, 04:35

That was an awesome update!! I have to say that I absolutely loved the way that Chloe handled the situation, she was strong and direct and didn't have to sink down to the level of some young chick trying to make a move on her Lex. I also have to say that I really enjoy Celeste, Gabe and Lionel are kind of quick to jump down her throat sometimes but she's doing her job and pretty well at that. I can't wait to see how Lex and Chloe's next encounter works out.

And this line, it killed me. I was laughing for a few minutes. Lex is so sharp, even when he's making snide remarks to himself. LOL.

“I can't complain, and your outfit is of course tasteful as always,” he commented. Translation: She looked like a colorblind whore.

Just too great, update again soon!

Steph*

Marcjana

27th June 2005, 12:12

This story is incredible! This is Chloe and Lex like I always picture them in the future [without Superman - that's it]. Only Lionel is a little off but I prefer him that way. You're diong excelent job with this fic and I hope that You [both of you] update soon.

Marcjana

LarkLuthor

27th June 2005, 22:07

I forgot to leave my feedback! *Lark stares agast at the fic* How is that possible?

This was perhaps my favorite chapter of this story...certainly in the top three...

I simply adored Lex's thoughts on the anoying college debutante. Chloe's defense of Lex was not as hillarious to me as it seems to have been to others, but still quite enjoyable....

And Gabe...GABE! Stupendous! Wonderful! He was so great in there being very much a dad and very much himself while still expressing himself in a way more intense than usual...

I for one don't really want the romantic hints we've been seeing with Celeste to take fruit. I just don't like her that much. Why should Gabe? ...even if it's later in the fic. You'll have to make her a lot more apealing if you do so, for me to enjoy it much.

Lark, Holding a big sign reading "MORE PLEASE"

JosiCuervo

29th June 2005, 01:50

“Melanie, your ineptitude at reading a situation is really quite impressive.” She kept her voice low but just shy of being threatening. Chloe knew that Lex wasn’t into personal contact so she didn’t drape herself over him as she spoke. But, she did weave her arm between the fabric of his shirt and the jacket that he was wearing.

She almost hoped that the girl wouldn’t get the hint. Scratch that, she did hope that Melanie was as dumb as she looked, that way she was free to really let her have it.

Lex was a little surprised at Chloe's outburst, and a lot surprised at the warm hand slipping along his waistline from out of nowhere, however he didn't intend on doing anything about it for the moment, except shifting a little into the movement and smirking to himself. Chloe couldn't do any damage, and if she could get rid of Melanie, all the better. It would save him the trouble of doing so.

It appeared as if things were slowly beginning to click in Melanie’s brain. Well, as much as one could expect out of that particular organ.

“You came with her?” Melanie heard her voice go way up in pitch but she honestly couldn’t believe that Lex would make time with whatever her name was. It was just too odd.

Chloe chuckled, really enjoying this. “Honey, Lex didn’t come with me.” She paused and let the girl have a little moment of pleasure. Then she added, “But I think that it’s more important that he’s leaving with me, don’t you?”

By now, Lex was trying hard not to show any emotion on his face. The look on Melanie's was just too damn hilarious for her own good. It was equal parts disappointed, outraged and absolutely incredulous. How this girl could ever think he would be leaving with her to go to some little get together of college students and play her catch of the night was beyond him.

Chloe was taking care of the situation quite admirably, even though he would have at least insinuated that they'd also come here together. But it looked like she wasn't done yet. He could only hope that whatever she said wouldn't lead to a cat fight, that might just be unhealthy for his business. Another thought occurred to him, but it was too late to stop her.

Before the girl could say another word, Chloe stepped away from Lex’s body and got right in Melanie’s face. “While you may be younger than I am, Lex knows that experience,” she drawled out the word, “trumps youth any day of the week.”

“For example,” she said, “have you ever…”

Chloe turned her body a little to the side so she could whisper in the girl’s ear. No need for Lex to hear all of the good stuff. Chloe was feeling decidedly evil and loving it.

Melanie openly gaped at the woman. “I thought not,” the woman murmured at her.

She leaned in once more and said, keeping her gaze fixed on Lex, “Have you ever made a man so crazy that…” she whispered the next few words in the girl’s ears and actually heard her gasp.

Lex couldn't hear just what Chloe was telling the girl, but it did have an extreme effect. It made him wonder as he let his eyes roam over Chloe's body once again. She did have a very well trained, limber body. He could just imagine what she'd be able to do with it if properly motivated. Lex stopped himself right there. Him and Chloe? The idea was ridiculous. They had trouble communicating for any stretch of time if there wasn't anyone else around to focus on. And he'd sworn off the whole business mixing with pleasure thing around the age of 25. She wasn't exactly business, but her father was working for his father, so close enough.

Speaking about business. If Chloe didn't stop soon, they would have a problem. He cleared his throat to draw attention to himself. “I think that's quite enough, now. You don't need to share all your secrets.”

Chloe laughed a little before walking over to Lex. One of her arms took its previous position on his body while she draped the other around the front of him. Her fingers toyed with one of his belt loops as she looked at Melanie. “Now, be a dear and run off, what I’ve got planned for Lex isn’t for the eyes of children. Adults only.”

:rofl: This was absolutely hilarious!! :worship: I'm thoroughly enjoying this fic. The scheming, the judo, the comical stubbornness of Chlex. I'm not even missing the smut...well...okay that's a lie, but I still love this. :hug:

~Erica ;)

Tehzo

29th June 2005, 03:36

By now, Lex was trying hard not to show any emotion on his face. The look on Melanie's was just too damn hilarious for her own good. It was equal parts disappointed, outraged and absolutely incredulous. How this girl could ever think he would be leaving with her to go to some little get together of college students and play her catch of the night was beyond him. I actually felt a little embarrassed for poor, dense Melanie. She was annoying, but I liked that she wasn't extremely gaudy, and therefore obviously fake. What made the situation hilarious was that, despite her intentions, she was sincerely giving Lex an out of what she assumed was unwanted company for him. I kept thinking, 'just shut up now, Melanie, for your own good.'

“Come on, Lex, I’m not going to tell you. A girl’s gotta have some secrets, right?” When his gaze didn’t waiver she said. “Don’t you think it’s better to just come up with whatever you want it to be in your mind? That way it can be as dirty as you want.” Not just these words but in general, I really love the dialogue in this story. It seems unique to me- the style and how everything always flows so beautifully together. It's, the Chlex verbal judo (I love their verbal judo!) and the Lionel and Gabe interactions, one of the things I'll always remember and enjoy about this fic.

“Did they go home together,” he asked as he placed the most interesting photos on the table in front of him. If they had, he would fire Celeste straight away for not opening with that crucial news. Lionel is written wonderfully. And the humor that goes along with how he's handling this matchmaking is great. Just like the title suggests, he uses the same tactics and determination (more even) into this matchmaking that he does with buyouts and hostile takeovers. The relationship between Lionel and Gabe is another wonderful thing. Lionel always seems so eager and impatient. And Gabe is the quiet and more observant one. I also enjoyed the switch during this chapter- Gabe being the 'bad guy' for once.

Great chapter! Looking forward to the next update.

meg20

29th June 2005, 11:37

Yay another wonderful update!
That dive would have been so much fun :rofl:
Go evil Chloe :devil:
Hope for another fun update with lots of Chlex interaction!!!

arkakitty

29th June 2005, 21:52

Ohhhhh I loved it how she verbally put this girl in place. I just started reading the whole story and I can't get enough of it now, please update! :)

BlueSabby

2nd July 2005, 17:21

A/N: Sabby: Here we go, Daddies, and children, no Celeste, dates and data. Have fun.

A/N: Blue: More action at the office. But, I think, not exactly the type of 'action' you people are clambering for.

Chloe checked her reflection in the doors of the elevator as she rode up to her father’s office. She had just had another tense meeting with her editor. He was still watching her closely and seemed to mention Lex’s name a whole lot more then usual around her. It was getting very old very quickly.

So when her father had called and asked her to have lunch with him she had jumped at the opportunity. When she had gotten off the phone with her father, she had found that Patterson was in front of her desk. He quizzed her about who she was having lunch with for two minutes before he would believe that it was just her father.

Letting out an annoyed sound and trying to let go of her annoyance, Chloe stepped out of the elevator and made her way to her father’s office. His secretary waved her in and smiled while taking a call and Chloe found her father in his usual position behind her desk pouring over papers.

Gabe looked up at the low knock on his open door, smiling genuinely at the sight of his daughter. He slapped the folder in front of him shut and got up immediately. “Sweetheart,” seeing the slight frown above her brows, he could tell something had been annoying her not long ago. She couldn't have run into Lex already? “How are you, is everything ok?”

He walked over to give her a hug and a kiss, wondering what could be up. They were on a pretty tight schedule and Chloe was five minutes late, but he wouldn't ignore the mood of his own daughter for a plan. No matter what the plan.

Chloe returned the hug and held on for a moment longer than she usually did. She knew her father would pick up on it but she didn’t care. She needed an extra squeeze after the day that she had had. “Just work stuff,” she explained, vaguely.

When her father continued to look at her with concern she knew that she would have to explain things in detail for him. “Patterson is still on the Lex kick. Every time I go anywhere that isn’t sanctioned by him he thinks that I may be running off to my torrid lover.” Chloe was able to chuckle at the thought of her and Lex meeting under the cover of dark.

They wouldn’t need to. They seemed to keep running into each other without even really trying. “It’s no big deal but I wish that he wasn’t always hovering around.”

Gabe nodded in understanding, for the first time sparing a thought at how Chloe's boss would react when Lex and Chloe started dating for real. They'd deal with it when the issue arose. “I'm sure he'll let you off the hook soon, I'm sure. After all, there's no reason for him to keep thinking it, is there?”

He led her out the door, and past his secretary, hoping they'd still get everything on schedule. Maybe he could talk to Lionel about the little problem with Chloe's editor, but there was the chance the other man would react a little over the top. Scratch that, Lionel would most definitely react over the top.

Chloe followed her father down the hallway and noticed how many people said hello to him and watched him nod accordingly and ask after people’s families. She smiled over at him. She wrapped her arm around his waist and leaned her head against him briefly.

“No, there isn’t.” Chloe paused and then added, “Well, unless he has people following me that is. I ran into Lex again the other night.” Her father was looking at her strangely and she knew it had to do with the way that she was acting.

She usually always maintained a professional air with him when he was at the office. “What?” She looked up at him. “I’m just proud of how important you are and am trying to show you without using words cause you get all embarrassed.”

“Oh, in that case,” he answered, squeezing back.

It did make his conscience twinge like a shirt two sizes to small, but he took a breath and soldiered on with the plan. It would be ok, Lionel or Lex would deal with any problems that arose from the whole editor thing and everything would be fine. Hell if, no when the plan worked out, one of the two men would probably buy her a newspaper company of her own.

Lionel watched the progress of both Gabe and Chloe and his son at his desk. Lex still had a few more papers to work his way through but he wouldn’t be done in the time it took the Sullivans to get to the elevator. Plus, he was sure that Chloe would be a welcome distraction after the hours he had spent hunched over his desk with the dry contracts and legal documents.

Lex had gotten through things even quicker than Lionel had imagined. He was proud of his son for that and the way that he had handled the artificial cold feet of the investor. Lionel spared another glance at the Sullivans and felt his stomach drop a little.

He envied Gabe more than he would ever admit. His daughter clearly doted on him, kept him informed of her life and loved him. Lionel looked back at the screen that had Lex displayed on it. He knew that, if given the chance, Lex would have picked anyone else on god’s green earth for a father.

Raising the boy on his own had not been easy and Lionel knew he had made quite a few crucial missteps. However, nothing could be done about the past. Which is why he was ensuring that Lex’s future would be happy. Lionel watched as Gabe and Chloe passed his office. He picked up the phone and said, “Now,” before looking back at the screen. Gabe and Chloe were now waiting for the elevator.

“Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Sullivan!”

Gabe turned on cue towards the mousy brunette running his way, knowing that it was part of their scheme. “Yes, what is it?”

The woman was waving a clipboard under her nose, talking frantically. “These papers, the important ones, that should have been out by midday, well they're not and your signature isn't on them and they need to be out, if they don't get out ASAP...”

Gabe interrupted her before her acting could get any worse and Chloe would catch wind of what was really going on. “Calm down, it's alright, we'll fix this and everything will be ok,” he said soothingly, taking the clipboard from her with one hand and putting his other on her shoulder.

Turning back to Chloe, he gave her an apologetic look. “I'm so sorry sweetheart, I promise, this'll only be a few minutes and I'll be right with you, okay?”

Chloe nodded immediately. The woman with the clipboard looked like her head was about to explode if her father didn’t help her with whatever was going on. “Yes, that’s fine. Go.” She waved him away from her and smiled at the woman.

Her father seemed relieved and went off in the direction that they had just come from, speaking every now and again to the brunette as she chattered away a mile a minute.

After another minute, Chloe was bored. There wasn’t much on the walls of the LuthorCorp office for her to stare at. Just a few pieces of abstract art and various framed articles about the success of the company.

“Lex Luthor’s office, please hold.”

Chloe turned around when she heard the chatter behind her form into words that she could make out. She continued a few steps down the hallway and was greeted with the sight of a blonde in her mid to late thirties answering the phone at her desk with lightening speed.

She was pushing numerous lit up buttons and making notes in what appeared to be an appointment book.

Catching sight of Chloe, she said, “Can I help you?”

Saying no would be very easy. She was sure that people got turned around in here all of the time. But, then there was the fact that Lex had disappeared into thin air the last time that she had seen him.

“Is Mr. Luthor available,” she asked.

“I’ll see if he can squeeze you in.” The secretary hung up one line of the phone and then depressed a button. Apparently, she thought that Chloe had an appointment with Lex.

Before Chloe could stop her, the secretary spoke into the phone, “Mr. Luthor, a Ms…” She looked up at Chloe expectantly.

Well, this wasn’t any good. Chloe had planned on sauntering into his office with a quick remark spilling out of her lips. Being announced sort of took the wind out of your sails. If he would see her, that was.
“Sullivan,” she supplied, knowing that lying would only make the situation worse.

“Sullivan,” the woman repeated, “is here to see you. Shall I send her in or reschedule her?”

Lex leaned back in his chair, a little surprised. “Send her in,” he answered curtly, already putting aside the papers he'd been brooding over for the last four hours straight.

Why would Chloe Sullivan come to visit him in his office? He remembered the way he'd left her the night before, while her back was turned in a phone call. Would she be pissed enough about that to confront him three days later in his office? Better to be prepared for the worst then.

“You can go right on in, honey.” The woman pulled a face and then said, “I apologize for the use of the word honey and hope that you know that I meant it in no derogatory and/or sexual manner.”

Chloe laughed as she realized that the woman was clearly used to calling younger women ‘honey’ but had probably had some sexual harassment seminar recently.

“Yes, that’s ok,” Chloe said before approaching Lex’s door. Being that she had already been announced she decided it was ok not to knock.

She opened the door and found Lex sitting in his chair. He looked up and started to get up from his seated position when Chloe held up her hand and said, “It won’t be necessary.” But, it was nice to see gentlemanly manners displayed towards her. Chloe hated to admit it but she was a sucker for that type of stuff.

Sitting down and then settling herself opposite from Lex, Chloe could see that he was waiting for her to begin their conversation. “I had this whole line about how Houdini had nothing on your disappearing act but it seems stupid now that I don’t have the element of surprise on my side.”

Seeing as she wasn't immediately jumping for his throat or looking ready to tear him limb from limb, Lex relaxed marginally. Her opening gambit was what sealed the opinion. 'Not pissed then, but not really happy about it either'.

”I would have apologized, but you were in the middle of a conversation and I found myself being dragged away for business,” he answered smoothly. Of course it wasn't the complete truth, but it was close enough, since he'd really had went straight for a meeting with Phillipe after he left her.

“So, what brings you here?”

“In the general vicinity, my father brings me here,” she explained while obviously looking around his office and taking it in. She didn’t think Lex would mind. “In your office, well, I guess my father, too.”

The place was done tastefully but her eyes were drawn to all of the high techs do dads that Lex had around the office. It made her contemplate snatching them and then running off. Course, she wouldn’t get very far.

Looking back over at Lex, she explained, “I was meeting him for lunch but there was some type of emergency so he left me to my own devices. I heard your secretary picking up the phone, identifying this office as yours….” She trailed off.

That was it, really. She couldn’t voice why she had actually come over to his office. There wasn’t a reason that she needed to see Lex. She realized with alarming clarity that she had actually wanted to see Lex.

“And here I am,” she finished without much eloquence.

That was interesting. He hadn't expected Chloe to have an agenda per se, but it was also a little unexpected that she'd just stopped by to what exactly? “Well, can I offer you a drink then, while you wait for him?”

The whole small talk thing could go horribly astride with Chloe, so he wasn't sure what exactly to talk about. Even though he had to admit, the distraction from his work was most welcome. He noticed her ogling the few knick knacks he'd acquired in his time here again. “Interested,” he asked.

Lex had caught her ogling his nice, new, shiny whatever the hell it was with lots of buttons on it. She surmised that it was a remote for something stashed in one of the cabinets. However, she didn’t care much about getting caught by Lex. She knew that Lex’s opinion of her was already set so she didn’t think acting a little more flaky would do much harm.

“Definitely,” Chloe responded to his question. Lately, she felt like keeping a fifth of Jack stashed in her desk. She kept getting assigned the most asinine pieces and had to deal with a crazy editor. That wasn’t good for her mental stability at the office.

“As long you join me.” She smiled over at him and then looked at his work. “Unless it’s against office policy,” she added, her smile getting wider. She was sure that Lex, of all people, didn’t have to adhere to such rules.

Lex got up from his seat and strode over to the remote she'd just been staring at. He could see that her brain was trying to come up with the answer for its use.

“I don't remember anything abut office policy in my contract,” he answered, extending the hand holding the little remote towards her. “Want to push the yellow button? I assure you, it's not some secret device launching nuclear weapons.”

The remote was actually a nifty little project he'd worked on in his free time. It opened the cabinet behind his back to reveal a built in wet bar, complete with mini freezer for olives and ice. A man needed his toys. The other buttons were still controlling the stereo he'd hidden behind the books in the panel above the bar.

“Well, that’s disappointing,” Chloe muttered under her breath loud enough for Lex to hear. Though, she wasn’t going to pass up an opportunity to play with Lex’s toy. Dutifully, she pressed the yellow button and let out a delighted laugh when the cabinet doors opened and revealed his bar.

“Oh, me likes. Course, if this was mine, I’d break it in ten minutes.” She put the remote in her lap and watched as Lex went over to the bar. “Whatever you’re having is good,” she said when she saw him turning back towards her.

Lex nodded and poured two glasses of scotch on the rocks. Straight wouldn't be very advisable, since he did have to finish his business sooner rather than later and fine print had the annoying habit of swimming in front of his eyes after a few glasses and this wasn't actually the first of the day.

Returning to his desk, he handed Chloe her glass, looking at the remote in her lap. “It's actually quite sturdy, but even if it breaks, the mechanism isn't that complicated. I could do it again.” He shrugged.

“You did this?” Chloe couldn’t help keep the amazement out of her voice. She put her glass on the desk and pushed the button again. The cabinet opened again and then closed as she pressed the button a second time. “Wow, I’m sufficiently impressed, Lex.”

She gingerly put the remote back on the desk and picked up her drink. Taking a sip, she said, “I’m a whiz with the Tivo but that,” she gestured to the cabinet, “is truly a skill to be proud of.”

Chloe leaned back in her chair and looked at Lex again. “You’re just full of surprises, aren’t you?” It was interesting to see that there were huge parts of Lex that no one knew about. Her curiosity about the man sitting in front of her increased.

Leaning casually against the front of his desk, he smirked. “Let's just say I like to keep people guessing.”

Truthfully, he hadn't thought it that interesting. So he knew how to take things apart and put them back together in a new way; that wasn't exactly front page material. But it was flattering to know that Chloe's awe hadn't been acted. “Something we seem to have in common.”

He at least wouldn't have expected Chloe Sullivan to be a martial arts fan. A whiz at the Tivo however, was something he didn't doubt for a moment.

Chloe chuckled as she swirled the alcohol around in her glass. “True,” she remarked. “Makes me wonder what else we have in common.” And, was she coming onto him? Chloe wasn’t even sure of that.

What she was sure of was that her voice had deepened just a little and she was looking directly at Lex. Oh, sweet Jesus, she was hitting on him.

Where had that come from? Sure, he was attractive. Yes, she liked talking to him. And of course she got a small charge just from being around him. But those things didn’t add up to anything worth noting.

But, what was said, was said. The only thing she could hope was that Lex wouldn’t ask her if she was feeling alright, concerned that her being ill was the only reason she could have for acting this way. Or shooing her out of his office, making up what both of them knew would be a lame excuse to get rid of her.

Lex arched one brow in question, not so much at what she'd said, but the way she'd said it. Chloe Sullivan was flirting with him and, in a very suave way. It could only be some sort of joke. Well, Lex didn't mind. He was a bit rusty shall we say in that department, anyway.

“Well there is the shared fascination for full contact sport to begin with,” he shot back.

A grin broke over Chloe’s face when Lex didn’t run screaming from the room or try to take her temperature….or check for meteor rocks scattered around his office.

“Yes, and it’s so very hard to find someone that can appreciate the beauty of a good roundhouse kick to the abdomen and doesn’t mind you pinning them to the ground.” She took another sip of her drink and commented, “This is very good Scotch.”

Taking a sip of his own drink, Lex inclined his head in agreement. “An appreciation for the finer liquor, as well?” If she told him she had a collection of Warrior Angel next, he'd be just a tad suspicious.

“You're not taking fencing lessons and practicing your skill on the piano every once in a blue moon, though,” he inquired.

It was a safe bet the answer to that one would be 'No', but it couldn't hurt to check. It was actually quite nice, flirting with Chloe Sullivan. But the ice was thin and Lex didn't believe one wrong step wouldn't put him right back in the freezing waters.

Chloe shook her head in answer. “Nope, I don’t think that anyone would really trust me with a pointy stick. Even if they had a mask on. And, as for the piano,” she put her almost empty glass on the desk and settled back into her chair.

“Chopsticks is as far as I got. My father made me take lessons for a little while after my mother left but my instructor told him it was a lost cause.” Chloe remembered eavesdropping on the conversation and was happy that the battle axe that had been tormenting her for the past few weeks wouldn’t be coming back.

“Besides, I didn’t have the long, graceful hands for it.” Chloe held up her hands and inspected her fingers. “Unlike you,” she said as she nodded over at his hand that was around the glass.

Lex wondered briefly how someone would play the piano with chopsticks, but pushed the thought aside. It must've been some kind of a music piece, because all else wouldn't make much sense. However, the comment about his hands did not go unnoticed.

“My father had my fingers broken several times to stretch them to an appropriate length,” he dead panned.

“Now you’re just trying to mess with my head,” Chloe said. She knew that Lex was just teasing her but she went with it anyway. She was highly enjoying their conversation and didn’t want to be the one to break whatever spell they were both under right now.

She would wager that neither of them did this very often, just flirted for the sake of it. Then again, it was becoming clear to her that she wasn’t doing this with Lex just for the sake of getting back into practice…she was going to ask him out. After she had maybe another drink, though.

“Because there is no way that those hands,” she again pointed at the one that was now lying on his desk, “were ever broken. They’re too….” Chloe knew that using the word pretty or beautiful wouldn’t be the best way to go. “Graceful,” she chose, “to have had that much damage done to them.”

Her whole body was warming up under the influence of the liquor and it felt quite nice. Only problem was it was beginning to get hot in Lex’s office. And, she didn’t want to start to unbutton her jacket. If she did anything overt like that, Lex might take it as a sign that she was fucking with him.

After taking the last gulp of her drink, Chloe asked, “Would you think it too presumptuous of me to ask for another one? Or think that I was a drunk?”

Standing up straight, he gave her a scrutinizing once over before saying, “Not at all.”

He pushed the button to slide the cabinet open, then went to prepare both of them another drink. The thought crossed his mind that it was odd that Gabe hadn't come looking for his daughter, yet, or at least let her know that it would be taking longer, but Lex shook it from his mind. She was an adult woman, not a teenager anymore.

Returning to his previous spot, he handed Chloe her glass before answering her previous statement. “However much I enjoy the compliment...” Holding up his left hand, he stretched out his middle and ring finger.

“Polo, Hamilton Prep School 1996. My mallet went one way, my horse the other,” he shrugged. “Both clean breaks, though. I was lucky.” He didn't think it was necessary to add the fact that both fractures had miraculously healed within the span of a week. He was surprised at his sharing mood as it was, because with his predilection, there was no way he could blame it on the alcohol.

Chloe’s eyes narrowed at his hands. Growing up around boys that had worked on farms, and gotten their digits and toes smashed, slammed and jacked into things, usually made her pretty adept at picking up injuries on people.

She stood up and, without thinking, took Lex’s hand in hers. “Wow, you must have had an amazing doctor.” She inspected the two fingers in question and could only see the imperfections that they had from up close. Realizing what she was now doing, and who she was doing it to, Chloe released his hand.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to..” she was stammering now and forced herself to stop. “I know you don’t like people in your personal space, I apologize.”

Lex held up the hand she'd just poked and prodded in a pacifying gesture. “It's quite alright,” he assured her.

Considering she'd had no qualms about invading his personal space before today, it was quite amusing to watch her getting all flustered about a comparatively mild breech. “And of course my father hired the best aesthetic surgeon money could buy, wouldn't do to have his 'heir' disfigured by an accident now, would it,” he asked rhetorically.

Noticing that Chloe was still staring, however inconspicuously at his hand, he reached it out once more. “I think I still have the x-rays,” he joked, vastly amused at her incredulous expression.

After realizing that Lex was teasing, Chloe took a sip of her new drink. It had been a long time since her father had left her and she wondered where he was. She hoped that he wasn’t scouring the building for her. She’d have some explaining to do once he found her anyway.

“Well, then, you’ll just have to show me them next time that we run into each other.” The words flowed smoothly out of her mouth and she realized that she wasn’t going to get a better opportunity.

“How does Saturday sound? Are you free?” There, it was out. For better or for worse, she had asked Lex on a date. Kind of.

Lex's hand dropped back on his thigh as his mind tried to catch up with the fact that Chloe Sullivan had just asked him on a date, in a way. More interesting was that while one part of his mind was working on the catching up, the other part had automatically started going through his schedule for the next Saturday independently.

He arched a brow at the situation in general, trying to figure out if this was a good idea or not, while still wondering where the hell this had come from. Yes, they'd been flirting, but they usually didn't get along, except they had the last two times they'd met and apparently did now.

“I might find a way to arrange something, say around lunch time,” he offered.

Chloe’s heart started again once he answered her. Apparently, it had stopped for a few seconds while waiting for Lex’s answer. Now that he had given it, things returned back to normal in her chest cavity.

The evening was better for her but she should be able to shift a few things around in order to make time to see Lex. “Lunchtime sounds good.” Her voice sounded ok. No tremor or weakness to it, thankfully. And, why was she already planning what she was going to wear?

There was only one real problem that she could see. They couldn’t go into the outside world. If anyone saw them it would start up the gossip again…not to mention she’d probably be fired.

But she wasn’t going to let some trivial stuff like that get in her way now, dammit. She started to nibble on her lower lip, something that she only did every now and again when she was trying to figure something out.

No matter, she’d puzzle it out between now and Saturday. “What time should I pick you up,” she asked. She was the one that had asked him out so it seemed only fair that she act as the chauffeur.

“I don't think picking me up will be necessary,” he answered.

There was no way he'd just jump into deep waters. He'd take his own car to get wherever the hell they were going and also, get back from there whenever he chose. “Just let me know where we're going and I'll be there,” he added.

Reaching behind himself, he looked for a business card, but came up empty. Instead, he grabbed for a post-it and a pen. It'd have to make do. Scrawling his cell-phone on the slip of paper, he handed it to Chloe.

“Ok, sounds good,” Chloe said taking the piece of paper from Lex. She turned around and retrieved her purse from the floor. Carefully, she placed the paper in a side pocket of the bag and zippered it.

Just as she was closing the purse, it began to vibrate in her hands. Chloe made a rather undignified noise and dropped the bag. Lex made a move to get it but Chloe beat him to it, telling him, “You stay or we’ll crack our skulls together.”

Luckily only a tube of lipstick and her damn cell phone had fallen out of her bag. She picked up her bag and the two items quickly and then answered the phone.

“Hi, Dad.” She paused and then rolled her eyes. “No I am not in some file room rifling through top secret documents. I’m with Lex.” She paused again. “No, I am not harassing him for an interview. Though, it’s nice to see how highly you think of me.”

She nodded. “Yes, I’ll meet you there now. Ok, I will. Bye.” Ending the call she looked over at Lex, “That’s my cue to leave. Whatever happened has resolved itself and my father says hi.”

Chloe put her bag on her shoulder and then noticed that she had barely touched her second glass of Scotch. Would be a pity to let it go to waste….she picked up the glass and downed the liquid. She thanked her college years for the fact that she hadn’t coughed after the action.

Lex watched the careless chugging of 19th century scotch with mild contrition, but let it go. It was quite impressive on another level that she'd been able to down that much in one go without falling into a major coughing fit.

“Well, in that case. Give your father my regards and enjoy your lunch.”

He got up and slowly walked across the room to open the door for her as she caught up with him. “I'll be seeing you Saturday,” he said, one hand on the door handle.

“Saturday,” she repeated while nodding at him. “I’ll call you within the next day or so to let you know where we’ll be meeting.” Lex opened the door and Chloe walked out of his office. She smiled at his secretary and then turned back around, hoping that Lex hadn’t already gone back inside of his office.

“And, Lex, don’t forget to bring the x-rays.” Finally, she allowed one of her embarrassingly huge smiles to plaster itself across her face.

Lex couldn't help but smile back, shaking his head. Out of the corner of his eyes he caught the completely gob smacked look on his secretary’s face and rearranged his facial features accordingly. “I'll make a note,” he shot back, before turning around and closing his office door behind him.

He knew she hadn't been serious about it, but a small part of his mind was wondering where he would have stashed them, if he'd indeed kept them. Probably the attic. It was funny how, once you had a house, things like that ended up in either the attic or the garage. Considering how much he loved his cars though, nothing that wasn't related to them would ever end up in the latter.

Settling back behind his desk, he gave the paperwork a sneer, before opening the file and getting back to work. His day wasn't nearly over, even if the worst had been prevented before Chloe's surprise visit.

bluengreenswmer

2nd July 2005, 17:55

OMFG!!!!

Their plan is working!! :)

I can't wait to see Gabe and Lionel's reaction to this...it should be very interesting.

BellaMR

2nd July 2005, 18:03

:nsparty: It's a date!

I adored the flirting. Whereever they go, alcohol should definately be present. That's when they seem to get on best.

Poor Lex, breaking his fingers, but I loved that he allowed Chloe to inspect them. I hope he brings the X-Rays. I can just see him getting all dirty and sweaty looking through boxes. :drool2:

Something must be done about Chloe's editor. I can just imagine what torture techniques Lionel might have planned for him when he finds out that Patterson is a hinderance to his plans.

I can't wait for the date. Maybe they can go on a picnic so no one will see them. They'll be all alone int he middle of no where. Plenty of privacy.

hfce

2nd July 2005, 18:20

EEK!! They had a civil conversation. EEK!! they flirted with eachother and EEK! they are going out on Saturday. What more can I say but EEK!!!!! :clapclap:
I love how each time they meet they find a reason to stick around longer with eachother. I can't wait until Saturday. EEEKKK!!! :rofl:

Hope :D

jaxie926

2nd July 2005, 18:47

*squee* I love getting updates from a BlueSabby story!!!

I love the way yall write both character's psyche's.... These made me smile:

She couldn’t voice why she had actually come over to his office. There wasn’t a reason that she needed to see Lex. She realized with alarming clarity that she had actually wanted to see Lex.

What she was sure of was that her voice had deepened just a little and she was looking directly at Lex. Oh, sweet Jesus, she was hitting on him.

Lex arched one brow in question, not so much at what she'd said, but the way she'd said it. Chloe Sullivan was flirting with him and, in a very suave way. It could only be some sort of joke. Well, Lex didn't mind. He was a bit rusty shall we say in that department, anyway.

I do SOO love that they're figuring it out on their own. And that they keep surprising each other. And us. Lex being all gadget-creator-boy, last chapter's Chloe-inuendo-scare-off-the-hoe-girl...

More More More... please?

Krysia

2nd July 2005, 18:57

Superb update. It amazes me how good of an actor Gabe can be, if he wants something bad enough :) I loved the whole interaction in the office. It was so sweet how they want to get together and do things in order for it to be possible totally uncosciously, and than in the middle of doing something are shocked. Listen to your ID people! :)
So I'm guessing Lex has some nice Wolverine healing abilities in order for his breaks to heal so nicely? ;)

Clannadlvr

2nd July 2005, 19:29

hee! What a great flirtatious scene. It felt very natural, especially within the progression of their friendship.

Lovely job, ladies!

dreamerjules

2nd July 2005, 20:01

As much as I loved the dads and the flirting and the date setting up, I adored Lex's secretary. Being a sorta Southern girl and on the receiving end many, many times, it was nice to see the casual "honey" thrown in. Wonderful touch.

Julie

Not An Addict

2nd July 2005, 20:29

Awwww! They're so cute! All comin' together (mostly) on their own despite their fathers' interference.

*snorts* I gotta wonder how many times Lionel is going to sit around reviewing this tape.

Excellent work, as always. Can't wait to see what happens on their date. I'd say it's about a fifty/fifty chance of them either having a great time or kicking each other's asses. Either way, it ought to be entertaining. ^_~

I'm really enjoying how they're just kind of drifting together. It's very subtle, very well done. It'll be interesting to see where they go from here.

arkakitty

2nd July 2005, 20:35

More interesting was that while one part of his mind was working on the catching up, the other part had automatically started going through his schedule for the next Saturday independently.

Brilliant. I love how his mind works :)

lexchloe

2nd July 2005, 21:00

:D :D :D See what happens when you leave them to it!!!! Yay they have a date. Yay there was flirtage!!!! Awesome update, chocful of Chlexy goodness. Can't wait to see how their first official date goes and how the dads react to the news that their plan seems to be working.

showntell

3rd July 2005, 03:25

I bet the thermal body scans for that last meeting woould be very very interesting.

Can't wait for the date or Lionel's reaction.

By the way delurking to say how much I love this fics....it's just adorabley cute.

Each update has these lines that usually send me over the edge.

Keep up the great work.

ellelea

3rd July 2005, 03:41

Yes, great work! Can't wait for another chapter; you write Chlex amazingly. :D

Gemkat5

3rd July 2005, 05:57

This was absolutely FABULOUS!!!!!! I loved every line, every word! (even the ones I refused to look up in the dictionary) and it just got better as I read on! Brilliant! Wonderful!! Phenomenal!!!

In other words... I want more! :D

SinnerSaint

3rd July 2005, 07:05

Yay! This was a wonderful update ! I loved the flirting and the banter, it really sounded like things they would say. You are awesome , truly amazing.

JosiCuervo

3rd July 2005, 08:14

WooHoo!! Chloe asked him out!!! I love to see a woman take charge!! :yeahbaby: So....date idea...Lex for lunch?? :hankpank:

vardaquareien

3rd July 2005, 09:56

Superb chapter! Wonderful chlexy interaction with the promise of more to come yay!

And, was she coming onto him? Chloe wasn’t even sure of that.

What she was sure of was that her voice had deepened just a little and she was looking directly at Lex. Oh, sweet Jesus, she was hitting on him.Chloe's thought's here completely cracked me up! I luv how her flirting was so unconcious and natural that she didn't even realise she was doing it to begin with.

Other favs: Lex claiming that Lional had his fingers broken! Lex's thoughts about "Chopsticks" - poor li'l rich boy never heard the ultimate classic *snickers*. Chloe taking his hands to examine his fingers - weehee bodily contact! Chloe askin' him out.

I can't wait to see the parental analysis and run-down on this meeting! I really want to see Lionel's reaction.

sylvia

3rd July 2005, 12:50

I'm continually amazed at how you two always manage to make up such great, realistic, and original dialogue. Even the parts where they were flirting were Chlexy and *squee*-worthy without being contrived.

I bet Gabe and Lionel will be bouncing in their seats as the video recording is played! No, Gabe will be bouncing, and Lionel will be bouncing and on the phone to a priest/wedding planner/gynaecologist. Hm, disturbing image. And speaking of disturbing images, please don't tell me Gabe and Celeste are going to get together. In fact the idea of Celeste in a wedding gown in itself is disturbing. *shudders*

Anyway, like everybody else, I really love the little touches of inventive craziness you've added to the fic -- the thermal body scans are ingenious! Right up there with the gullibility scales.

Do update soon!

meg20

3rd July 2005, 13:53

Just knowing there's an update puts a smile on my face :D

“My father had my fingers broken several times to stretch them to an appropriate length,” he dead panned.
I can just imagine Lionel doing that! :devil:

He got up and slowly walked across the room to open the door for her as she caught up with him. “I'll be seeing you Saturday,” he said, one hand on the door handle.
And we will be waiting! :grin2:

Give us another update soon:beg:

Louie

3rd July 2005, 19:30

date date date date date date date. can't wait to see how it'll get messed up :grin3:

teejei

3rd July 2005, 22:08

a date?...A FRICKIN' DATE?! *squeeeeeeeeeeeee* :ecstatic:

the banter, the contact, the scotch...*gah*

excellent update, fic goddesses! :worship:

*barely conceals excitement over Saturday Chlex date*

update soon! :D

star del mar

4th July 2005, 07:52

That was a resounding success, wow, I had been expecting some kind of catastrophe to strike as soon as Chloe and Lex started talking. This was such a great chapter but I'm ready to see them on their date, I'm so excited! Update again soon!!

Steph*

kimmie

4th July 2005, 18:32

Please update soon, I can't wait for their date, I need some more Chlex flirting (and maybe more?), Loving this fic!!!

Kimmie

squash

5th July 2005, 22:20

this story is seriously one of the best stories i've ever read. it's funny and creative and romantic and i can't wait to read more. i'm loving the development of chloe and lex's relationship from good to bad to good and hopefully to better. keep up the great work. post more soon

BlueSabby

9th July 2005, 20:36

A/N: Blue: The first part of the date is coming your way. The chapter is broken in a strange place but that's because we've written 'the date that just won't end.' It's frigging long so if you think we cut at an odd place, please send an email to bluesabbycomplaintsthatwedon'tcareabout@yahoo.hotm ail.com and enjoy!

A/N: Sabby: *Snort* Yeah uhm *chuckles* I guess what she said. But think of it this way: It's a long date... lots of conversation... and stuff.

For once, Lionel hadn’t said anything as he watched Lex and Chloe’s exchange on the computer monitor. He was scared that if he spoke it would break whatever good mojo they had on their side today.

The conversation between his son and Chloe seemed to go smoothly and they had a natural ease with one another. He had been confident that their relationship would only be strengthened by this visit. What he hadn’t expected was the twist at the end.

Chloe asking his son out, and Lex accepting, was too much for even him to hope for. His good mood had been dulled slightly by Lex’s explanation for why he had called in the best doctor when his fingers were broken.

He would never have had just any doctor attend to his son. Lex was too important to him. But, it seemed, that Lex would never fully understand that. Lionel knew that he was most to blame for that but he hoped that finding Lex a suitable wife would even things out. Though Lex would never know it and continue to hate him until the day he died, Lionel would do anything to ensure that the second part of his life was more full of joy than the first part had been.

But first he and Chloe had to actually become a couple. Lex was still chuckling a little at Chloe’s last comment as he returned to his desk.

“Gabe, if this doesn’t work out, there is no justice in the world and no rhyme or reason to the universe.” Now more than ever, Lionel believed that their children were made for each other.

No other woman he had ever seen his son with had gotten the reactions from him that Chloe had. No one woman had ever challenged him, yelled at him or made him laugh. Yet Chloe had done all of that within the course of a few weeks.

Gabe was taking in the turn of events, his eyes still on the monitor, watching Lex going through his work. It was amazing watching these two. If you looked at it from an outside point of view, forgetting for a second that the whole plan was to get them together, they were still right for each other. That had just been proven. Chloe had sought Lex out without being forced. And they'd just agreed to go on a date.

Granted, Lex would drive himself - Gabe had seen that one coming a mile wide - and they'd probably not be anywhere romantic, since the most romantic places were mostly the most public. But still, their children were getting somewhere. For the first time Gabe was convinced.

“This will work out. No matter what, and I'm sure there'll be a lot of 'whats'. This will work out,” he said with conviction.

Lionel looked over at Gabe quickly. The other man was supposed to be the realistic man, he was supposed to keep Lionel grounded in reality and keep him from running off and doing or believing anything stupid.

If Gabe actually thought that this would happen, that their crazy plan would actually bear fruit then maybe this was the perfect time to….

“I know it’s a little early for this discussion but it seems like as good a time as any,” Lionel said as he crossed over to one of his cabinets. He didn’t have a remote control like Lex did. When he had asked his son to fashion one for his office, the boy had replied that he didn’t know how to rig up a trap door to a remote so there was no need for his father to have one.

Opening the cabinet, he took out a box of very good, and very illegal, Cuban cigars. “Have you thought of any names?” He clipped the end of one cigar and then the other before looking back up at Gabe.

Gabe turned from the computer screen to look questioningly at Lionel. “Names?”

Why should they be thinking about names? He'd just assumed that Chloe Sullivan would turn Chloe Luthor and that was that. Granted there was always the possible double name, but he couldn't see Chloe going for that, since it would be a tongue twister and much too long to shout out when she was in the fray with other reporters, trying to get a statement.

Noticing that Lionel was still looking at him inquisitively and trying to hand him a cigar, he shook himself out of his inner ramblings. “No, why?” He took the cigar and a mild drag when Lionel lit it for him.

It became clear to Lionel that Gabe was not thinking along the same lines as he was. He needed to be clearer about their topic of conversation.

“Well, you surely don’t want their first child named after Lillian’s mother. Gertrude is not as fine a name as it used to be.” He paused, taking a puff of his cigar, enjoying the robust flavor, before adding, “It doesn’t really go with Luthor, either.”

He had no doubt that the children would bear the Luthor name. Lex would fight tooth and nail for that. Lionel chose to forget that Chloe would fight for her name just as hard.

Woah, woah, woah, wait a minute. Gabe almost choked on the smoke in his lungs. When he had his coughing fit back under control he shook his head at Lionel, trying to find the right words. Trust the man to leap completely over board and leave his sanity behind.

“Lionel, I don't,” another cough, “Don't think it's necessary to look for children's names already.”

Laying the cigar aside on a fancy marble ashtray, he turned away muttering, “I need a drink.”

After he'd poured both of them a glass of scotch, and taken a healthy swig of his, he continued. “They haven't even had their first date yet, and...” How to break this to Lionel gently. “I don't think we'll get a say in the names of our grand children either way. Come hell or high water.”

Lionel grinned around the cigar. There was the practical Gabe he’d come to rely upon in both his professional and now personal life. But, he wasn’t being any fun.

“Oh, come now, Gabe,” he said, taking his drink from the other man. He wondered if his future daughter in law would attempt to kick his ass if she knew that he had her father drinking and smoking right now.

“We have only another minute before you’re supposed to meet Chloe at the elevator. Surely, you can tell me one name that you’d like to see your granddaughter or grandson having.” He took another sip of his drink. “Where’s the harm in that?”

Gabe shook his head, took another sip of his drink and picked up the cigar once more. Lionel was his version of hyper, so there was no use arguing with the man it seemed. Sighing he settled against the side of the desk. Oh what the hell. He downed the drink. “Hannah,” he said shortly, “After my ex-wife's sister.”

Bless her heart, that woman had warned him from the beginning and helped him out tremendously when Chloe's mother had left. Not that Chloe would ever know that. He downed the rest of his drink and took the first appreciative drag of the cigar. A good one, that.

“Hannah,” Lionel said, mulling the name over. He liked it. It wasn’t too flashy but still not common. His grandchildren certainly wouldn’t be named Jane or John. He would try to push the ‘L’ factor but he really didn’t see that happening.

“It’s a good name,” he said, finally. “We’ll put it on the list.” Lionel looked at his watch. “You had better get going, you told Chloe you’d meet her at the elevator in five minutes. We don’t want her to come looking for you.”

Nodding, Gabe put the cigar aside once more, letting the subject of debate rest for now. If Lionel wanted to waste time making lists of names then that was his business. No harm could be done by it.

“I'll let you in on everything important once I'm back,” was his parting shot as he made his way out of the office.

He wondered if Chloe would tell him about the date, wondered if he should try to make her tell him. Wondered if the date would go smoothly, or if catastrophe would decide it would be a good moment to strike. Whatever happened, they'd deal with it. He'd seen the look on both their children's faces. This would work, one way or another.
~~~
The weekend could not have come fast enough for Chloe. And it only had partly to do with her plans on Saturday. Work was getting more unbearable and she felt like something was going to have to give soon. Either Patterson was going to have to start laying off on her about Lex or she was going to shove her high heeled shoe in his eye. She hoped it was the former.

She had called Lex to give him the information where they were to meet but had only been able to get his voicemail. Leaving the message, Chloe hoped that he wouldn’t do too much research on the address.

One of her first assignments had been to check out the various places that couples were getting married these days in Metropolis. Most of her small reviews of the places had been horrible. They were overpriced, ugly and/or had a pretentious wait staff.

Then she had found Hathor. Amidst the city skyscrapers, there was a small botanical garden that held wedding ceremonies and had a small restaurant as well. Chloe had, pardon the expression, fallen in love with the place. While it was named after an Egyptian goddess, it didn’t have any of the kitschy trappings of that.

It was classy and elegant but very small for Metropolis standards. After her review, however, they had been booked solid for three years. She had gotten a dozen roses from the owner and then she had become somewhat of a regular at the restaurant.

There was a wedding and reception today but it was on the other side of the space. So she and Lex shouldn’t be disturbed or see anyone that she didn’t trust. She just didn’t hope that he’d see what the place was, turn tail and run.

Lex had googled the place Chloe had suggested and had been quite surprised to find that it was actually the hot-spot for weddings and receptions. Quite surprised being an understatement, he'd almost choked on his drink. However a little more research brought to light that the establishment had a very good restaurant and that they were the hotspot for weddings because of a critique that had been written by none other than Chloe Sullivan herself. That explained that, so Lex didn't nix the date.

He parked his Porsche in the small parking lot on the outside of the building and made his way inside. Tasteful decorations, polite personnel, immaculate tables. Lex was impressed, he'd never thought to look for a nice restaurant amidst a cluster of rather unassuming downtown buildings.

Spotting Chloe already seated at one of the tables, he made his way over, coming up behind her. “Is this seat taken,” he asked nonchalantly.

Chloe leaned back in her chair and craned her neck upwards. It was a brilliantly sunny day out so she had worn her darkest sunglasses. In true clichéd fashion, she slid them down her nose and said, “It is now.”

She saw Lex’s lips twitch at her words and she grinned up at him but he didn’t make any further comment. As he settled himself down across from her, she slipped off the glasses completely. She could see a waiter and a waitress waiting in the wings to take their order, whispering to each other. (This sentence brought to you by the letter ‘w’.)

Andre had assured her that his staff would maintain their professionalism no matter who she was meeting with. The owner had tried to weasel it out of her but she had steadfastly stonewalled him. He was naturally curious like she was so she had some fun watching him squirm. Besides, word would travel fast. But she knew that it wouldn’t travel past the vined, stone walls of the establishment.

Lex looked as relaxed as she thought he got in public. On her message, she had also mentioned to dress casually so his attire was slacks and a thin sweater instead of the usual suit. Perched on his nose were exorbitantly expensive sunglasses. All in all, he looked damn hot.

Taking a sip of her water, Chloe said, “Being out of the office agrees with you.”

Getting a little more comfortable in the rattan seat, Lex smirked casually. “Have to prove every once in a while that sunlight won't turn me into a pile of ashes. Nice dress, the color suits you.” Pleasantries, check.

It was a little odd, sitting here on a date with Chloe Sullivan, the same woman that had tried to kick the shit out of him, caused a public scandal and went from there to rescue him from money and sex hungry debutants. Scratch that, it was very odd and Lex was feeling just a tad off the game. Not that she needed to know that.

“So what made you choose this spot?”

Ok, conversation, she could do this. She and Lex were good at the talking. This didn’t have to feel weird. And, yet, it still did. Chloe just needed to not be so nervous. She had made a fool out of herself more than a few times in front of Lex so what else did she have to lose?

Leaning further back in her chair and making her body relax, she said, “It had a few key elements that we needed. Firstly, no prying eyes staring at us, pencils scribbling down our words or those pesky cameramen that seem to get us into trouble.”

She smiled at the thought of any of the overweight lensmen that she knew trying to shove themselves in the bushes.

“But, more than that,” she looked around and shrugged, “it’s pretty and I like it here. “Plus,” she said, picking up the menus and handing one to him, “the food is absolutely amazing.”

Lex had started to open his menu and Chloe leaned over the table and placed her hand urgently on his, “Oh, before I forget, you have got to save room for dessert. It’s very important to remember that when making your selection.”

“I will not allow you to be one of those dates that begs off from a billion calories, agreed?” And, yes, she had just called him her date.

Lex looked at the hand on top of his, then back up at Chloe, smirking. “I'll keep it in mind,” he answered.

Odd how that should have bothered him. That Chloe kept breaching the boundaries of personal space. It didn't bother him, though. But it did bother him that it didn't. He returned his attention to the menu, brushing the rather circular thought aside.

“Anything you'd recommend, aside from the dessert?” Lex didn't exactly have a sweet tooth, but if he had to resign himself to some sugary confection to avoid trouble, he would.

“I don’t think my opinion matters anymore,” Chloe said as she saw a figure approaching them. “Prepare yourself to be bossed around.”

She caught the raised eyebrow that Lex threw her way before turning her attention back to the person fastly approaching their table. Chloe stood up and was soon enveloped in a pair of hefty arms. She turned her head to the side in order to breathe and felt herself being lifted slightly off of the ground. Once she was earthbound again, she smiled at the man that had lifted her up.

Even though he was short, about an inch shorter than Chloe now that she was wearing slight heels, Paul was not a man to be trifled with. In any way.

“What brings my sweet Chloe back?” He kissed one hand and then the other. He noticed that the man she had come with had risen to his feet and was waiting to be introduced. Ignoring the man for a moment, his eyes narrowed on the menus that sat atop the table. “And who brought you those?” Paul turned around and yelled at the one waiter that was standing in the entranceway to the main restaurant. “Did you bring them those?”

Paul picked up the menus and, without further ado, threw them Frisbee style into a bubbling fountain a few feet away. Chloe hid her smile behind one of her hands as Paul turned back to her and Lex, as if he hadn’t just chucked their menus into a fountain, and asked, “Now, who is your young man?”

Lex followed the cue and ignored the flying leap their menus had just taken and tried to stay professional. It was a bit of a surprise that this man, who was obviously the owner of this restaurant didn't recognize him. There were few people that didn't anymore.

“Lex Luthor, it's a pleasure to meet you,” he offered with a slightly extended hand. Never more than halfway, makes you look like an idiot if they don't accept it.

Obviously, Chloe had made quite a friend here and one that expressed what he felt openly. He could only hope that the Luthor family had never crossed paths with anyone in the man's family before.

Paul took the extended hand and shook it vigorously. “Good grip,” he muttered under his breath. He was a firm believer that a handshake told you a lot about a man. He had also noticed that the man took in the scene and yet made no comment about what was going on. Controlled and planning.

He turned back to Chloe, a huge smile on his face, “This one will be able to help to manage you.” He caught the young woman’s mouth open and her eyes narrow in distinct fury before turning back to Lex. “I like him.”

Lex chuckled at Chloe's outraged expression, but caught himself quickly. “Thanks, but I'm afraid your expectations are a bit high,” he said, shooting another glance at Chloe. “She's not exactly the kind of woman one can manage without her consent.”

He could just imagine how she'd react to someone trying to order her around. If there was enough room for it, a spin kick would surely be involved. “So this is your restaurant,” he clarified to change the subject. “It's a beautiful place. One usually wouldn't expect to find such a gem in an otherwise ordinary environment.”

Paul took note that the man was also an expert flatterer. However, the compliment did seem to be genuine. “Thank you. The location is a little strange for such a place. But it fits us. Something that shouldn’t work out, but yet does. Quite magical.”

He noticed that Chloe had her arms crossed over her chest and had quite a pout on her. “Bella, he will never want to take you into his bed with that face.”

It was instinct that made Lex turn around. A lot like when someone says 'don't look behind you now' and you look. Chloe's arms were crossed tightly over her chest, emphasizing her cleavage and her bottom lip stuck out in a pout under narrowed eyes and a wrinkled nose. Cute. And well, the man was wrong, because a look like that was a challenge. To see how long it would take to make it disappear.

Lex clamped down on that thought viciously, reminding himself that this was Chloe. The woman with the drop kick from hell and a tongue as vicious as acid when she wanted it to be. Not a good idea. He thought about saying something in answer to the man's comment, but there was nothing he could say that would work in his favor. Every man for himself.

Even though Chloe had expected this, it was still shocking. Every time she came here, Paul would either try to set her up with someone currently in the restaurant or say totally inappropriate things to her date.

She had considered that when choosing to have lunch here but her need to have a fix of the supremely decadent chocolate mousse cake had won over her good judgment.

Paul worked off of her all of the time. Whenever she reacted strongly to something he said, he seemed to enjoy it. In that, he was a lot like Lex. So she tried not to react anymore than she already had.

“You’re Greek so calling me Bella makes little to no sense,” she pointed out first. Chloe uncrossed her arms and relaxed her face while she took a deep breath. “Secondly, I’d ask you to let Lex be the judge of whether or not he wants to take me to his bed. It’s a decision he should be allowed to make on his own, no?”

Lex’s eyes were still on her. She had seen him turn around previously to see what face she was making. Chloe couldn’t blame him being that she would have done the same thing. “Thirdly, is there a reason, besides your twisted enjoyment in making me look like an ass, that brought you out here?”

It was only after a certain amount of humiliation that Paul actually got down to business. Yet another thing that Chloe had learned by coming here. The problem was that his food was so good and she knew that he only did such things to her because he cared that she constantly forgave him for everything.

Lex was quite impressed by the way she handled the burly man. On second thought, he should have seen it coming. The way she'd handled Melanie had been a good clue. Turning his gaze back to the man in question who still hadn't introduced himself properly, he waited for the agenda to show itself.

“But, of course,” Paul said as if it were the most obvious thing, “I wanted to see what the mood was between the two of you in order to prepare the perfect meal.” This was most definitely not a romantic meeting. It was in broad daylight and the two of them did not stand very close to one another. But still, Paul felt in his gut that there was something between his favorite customer and the bald man she had brought. His wife would say it was indigestion but he was never wrong.

“And, more importantly,” he took a step closer to Lex, “what you will be doing after.” He nudged the young man with his elbow a little. “There are certain activities that should not be done on a heavy stomach.”

The young man had held up remarkably well under Paul’s remarks. Usually the men would wilt away from the crass innuendos. Those were weak willed mean and not for his Chloe. He did this for her own good.

Lex thanked his meteor mutation, otherwise, those jabs might have cracked a rib or two. As it was, he bore it with a smirk and answered. “Well I can't speak for Chloe, but I have work to attend after this,” he caught himself before he could say meeting and fluidly went on, “Reprieve and I agree completely, that shouldn't be done on a heavy stomach.”

And if they kept talking any longer, he'd have to make a call to push back the meeting he'd originally planned for, he glanced briefly at his watch, 30 minutes from now. Definitely needed to make a call.

Paul opened his mouth to speak but Chloe had already heard quite enough. “Nope,” she said, pushing herself between the two men, “you’re done here. You’ve had your fun, embarrassed me and judged Lex. Now, if you don’t bring us out two plates of food that make our mouths water and pints of wine that are beyond compare…” Chloe paused, thinking about the best way to threaten Paul.

She smiled widely as she finished, “I’ll tell your wife about how you treated my poor unsuspecting date.” Felice did not approve of the way her husband acted. At all.

“Chloe, dear, let’s not be rash.” That would not be good at all. She was already upset with him about a little kitchen fire that he had accidentally set last week. “I will away to the task at hand right quick.”
Chloe let out a deep breath when Paul turned around and then groaned when he turned back. He extended his hand around Chloe and said, “Paul Scopolos. Pleased to meet you, Lex.” Chloe watched as Paul finally took his leave.

Lex shook his head minutely as he watched the burly man, Paul, walk off. Turning back around, he looked at Chloe, raising an eyebrow. “That was quite interesting,” he said.

There really wasn't much of a better way to put it. He was glad said wife didn't seem to be around. Honestly, he didn't want to know what could make a man like Paul afraid enough to drop everything and run like his proverbial tail was on fire.

He waited for Chloe to take her seat again, before he sat down as well. “If he handles all his costumers like that, it's a surprise there still are any,” he commented.

“Lex, I am so sorry,” Chloe said, earnestly. “He’s never been that bad.” True, he always embarrassed her but she didn’t think she had blushed as strongly as she was now in a long time.

“He doesn’t treat everyone like that,” she said, “just the lucky few that he considers family.” Chloe picked up her glass of water and finished it. “If it’s any consolation, I think that he liked you. If he hadn’t, you might have joined our menus.”

“The real way you can tell,” she continued, feeling a little better now that Paul was gone and she could try to pretend that none of that had just happened, “is if he tells you that he’s reserved a day for you. Pencil means that you’ve got your foot in the door but, in pen, well, that’s some serious business.”

Chloe chuckled remembering that every time she left here, Paul would always whisper her date in her ear. Hers was apparently written in black marker. She often wondered how much damage Paul and her father could do together if they joined forces.

Lex took in the information with an indulgent nod and quirk of a brow. Why didn't it surprise him that Chloe could make friends out of her assignment? Even though the man had just embarrassed her, and not too little, she didn't seem to really begrudge that fact or as if she was seriously pissed off. If Lex himself had pulled any such thing, he had no doubt she would have tried to chew his head off and spit it out.

“I doubt I'll be in need of his service again,” he referred to the general purpose of the restaurant, “But I'll keep it in mind.”

Wondering if they would at least be brought a drink sometime soon, he cast a casual glance around, his eyes falling on what was obviously a weeding reception going on across the lawn. Lex felt pity for whatever poor sod happened to be the groom.

It took a great deal of effort not to pry at Lex’s statement, Chloe followed where his gaze was fixed now. Over the hedges, she caught sight of both the bride and groom being raised up on chairs. She shook her head and thought that there was no way she’d ever allow herself to be put through that particular rite. Seemed far too dangerous.

Her eyes were drawn away from the top of heads that kept appearing by a waitress bringing them a bottle of red wine. Paul had apparently decided what they were to drink as well as what they were going to eat. She shook her head as the girl approached and told Lex, “It seems as if Paul has made his first executive decision.”

For some reason, though, she wasn’t terribly concerned about Lex’s reaction. He looked relaxed and had gone along with Paul’s shenanigans admirably. She made small talk with the waitress as she presented the cork to Lex for inspection along with pouring a small amount of wine in his glass. She knew that the girl, Katerina, should almost be done with school and she was almost glowing with enthusiasm when she discussed her plans for after graduation.

Lex seemed pleased with the choice of wine and Katerina quickly left after smiling in his direction. Chloe picked up her glass and said, “To the bride and groom,” while nodding her head in the direction of the hedges. “Though, that is trite and clichéd, you got anything better for us to toast to? And world domination doesn’t count.” She smiled at the thought of her and Lex forming an evil empire that overlooked Metropolis.

Lex acknowledged her toast, then grinned as an idea came to him “To the domination of the northern hemisphere through free economy,” he said, somewhere between a statement and a question.

He didn't particularly relish drinking to the oncoming demise of a fellow man. The couple would probably get divorced before they even made it into their third year of marriage, if statistics proved to be true.

“That’s dead sexy, Lex, you sure know how to make a girl’s heart flutter,” she said, a smile on her face. But, she appreciated that the toast was trademark Lex. She clinked her glass with Lex’s and then took a sip of the wine. Then made a face.

No matter how much Paul tried to tell her to the contrary, Chloe really did not like wine. She was sure that it was a good year and crop and whatever the hell else the man went on and on about but it still tasted musty and generally unappetizing to her.

Her date was looking at her curiously over the rim of his glass, eyebrows raised in question. “I never did acquire a taste for wine but Paul keeps at it. If I’m not mistaken another….” She trailed off as Katerina appeared with a dry martini and put it on her table without comment.

Chloe took a sip of her drink and asked, “So, how is the wine? I’m sure that you’re not as uncouth as I am and may actually appreciate it.”

Lex took another sip of his wine, enjoying the flavor on his tongue before he swallowed. Sweet aftertaste of jasmine, a good vintage, not too sweet, slightly earthy.

“I wouldn't go so far as to say it's perfect, but it is definitely one of the finer assortment,” he answer.

Lifting the glass to appraise the color he titled it slightly, until the sun caught the glass, illuminating the full burgundy color. Lowering the glass to look back at Chloe, he was intrigued to find out why she didn't like it. There was so many different flavors to wine as there was to women, surely, there had to be one she didn't wrinkle her nose at. “What is it about the taste you don't like?”

Chloe shrugged and then leaned back in her chair. Paul and his wife had this conversation with her numerous times. She had tried red, white, dry, blush and every other kind under the sun with the same result.

“I honestly can’t put my finger on it,” she explained. Her glass was still left on the table and she ran her finger around the rim of it, looking at the red liquid dubiously. “I think that it tastes…” she tried to find the right word. “Almost musty, I guess.”

“Paul is now under the impression that I was raised by low class wolves and demands that I bring my dad here sometimes to have a serious discussion with him.” Chloe could just imagine her father getting a talking to from Paul. She wasn’t sure he would survive.

Then again, he worked day in and day out with Lex’s father. Chloe was certain that the elder Luthor had a number of eccentricities that would trump Paul’s any day.

“Hmm, interesting.” He had tasted wine that did indeed leave a sour, musty tang on his tongue, but that usually only happened with cheap wine. Then again, far be it from him to make judgments.

“I would ask you which vintages you have tried, but I doubt we would get very far with that,” he said before taking another sip of his red. Rubbing his tongue over his palate, the after taste of jasmine strengthened, but he didn't find it to be musty by any stretch of the imagination. “What about sherry, or port?” They were usually sweeter, which was why he stayed away whenever given the option.

Watching Chloe's finger still running over the rim of her glass, it was a pity that such a good drink would go to waste. This Paul apparently didn't know when to give up on a lost cause.

“Honestly,” Chloe said as she took her hand off the glass of wine, “I couldn’t tell you if I’ve ever had any. It all just tastes bad to me. But this,” she picked up the glass and took a sip, appreciating the flavor as it trickled down her throat, “is perfect.”

Chloe saw that Katerina was coming back with two plates full of steaming food and she got excited. It was a holdover from when she was a kid. Eating out had been a real treat when she was younger. But, even though Paul’s food was amazing, she still thought it couldn’t compare to her dad.

She was such a terrible sap. “I hope you’re not picky because god only knows what sort of stuff he’s thrown together on a plate.”

bluengreenswmer

9th July 2005, 21:18

It did end in sort of a weird place, but that only means that we can expect an update soon because you would never leave us in the middle of date like that, right? :)

Update soon!

lexchloe

9th July 2005, 21:59

Loved the start with the dad's and glad to see that Gabe is starting to feel confident about their plan working Loved Lionel getting carried away as usual. So far I'm liking the date and I'm liking the location and Paul. Hope they lose their cynicism about marriage as their relationship progresses. You've left us gagging for more so please update soon.

hfce

9th July 2005, 22:01

Oh my Lord this story makes me :D I love how each time I have no words for how great this story is. This is Chlex to me the back and forth and not taking eachother so seriuosly. You guys have brought fun and nonpredictable Chloe and Lex. This is not the usual angst Chlex that I have been reading lately on here but the fun and crazy and stubborn Chlex I love. Thanks for bringing that back guys. :wub: :clapclap:

Hope :)

kimmie

9th July 2005, 23:10

I Love love love this fic, oh please come back and finish the date!

Kimmie

Not An Addict

10th July 2005, 00:35

Heh. Gotta love a guy like Paul. And by that I mean I have several uncles like him and would avoid introducing them to my date like I would avoid the bubonic plague if I lived in the fourteenth century. Nevertheless, he seems sweet, and I like him. ^_^

Great chapter, guys. Gotta love Chlex semi-uncomfortable-dateness. Always a good time, and the perfect way to smooth out my tummy clenchings after applying for a student loan (which is, by the way, terrifying). Can't wait for the second half!

BellaMR

10th July 2005, 01:50

Fabulous, ladies. I loved Paul and his critique of Lex. Chloe had definately better change that look on her face (their dad's are already picking out names.)

I'm looking forward to the rest of the chapter.

Kit Merlot

10th July 2005, 03:40

Okay, I just started reading this fic, and it is fabulous :D

And I can't believe that I'm about to post this, but I feel kind of sorry for Lionel. He sees how close Gabe and Chloe are, and he wishes that he and Lex could have that type of father/son relationship, and god help me, I'm starting to wish that, too.

I would actually love it if Lex and Lionel could have a true mending of their relationship.

But, as of this update, I LOVE the beginning of Chloe and Lex's date, and I can't wait to see what happens next.

leik2

10th July 2005, 06:30

Fun chapter. Loved Paul.

Louie

10th July 2005, 07:49

While it was named after an Egyptian goddess, it didn’t have any of the kitschy trappings of that.

Hmm, was that a very thinly vailed insult a some other resturant. ;)

Loved the beginning of the date I hope it continues on well, but that is probably to much to ask.(plus it's less fun)

planetcal

10th July 2005, 07:50

Great chapter. I loved Gabe and Lionel picking out names for grandkids already.
Can't wait to see what happens with the rest of their date.
Please update soon!!

teejei

10th July 2005, 07:53

'the date that just won't end.'oh, but who'd want to end it, anyway? *LoL* moving on...

Trust the man to leap completely over board and leave his sanity behind.:rofl: the visual has me grinning like an idiot. :D

Odd how that should have bothered him. That Chloe kept breaching the boundaries of personal space. It didn't bother him, though. But it did bother him that it didn't.o-kay, whatever you say, Lex. :rolleyes: suuuure it bothers you. it's called a sign, a message, like a freakin' smoke signal that means Chloe soooo worth a second look. :wth:

He turned back to Chloe, a huge smile on his face, “This one will be able to help to manage you.” He caught the young woman’s mouth open and her eyes narrow in distinct fury before turning back to Lex. “I like him.”and i like Paul. nothing better than another party pushing for the Chlex. :D

He noticed that Chloe had her arms crossed over her chest and had quite a pout on her. “Bella, he will never want to take you into his bed with that face.”oh, i really like him now. upfront, blunt---Chlex catch a clue here! :P

more more more! update soon! :blinkkiss

SinnerSaint

10th July 2005, 09:19

When Paul said the thing about Lex managing Chloe , I got a very interesting visual. ;)

BabDreamer

10th July 2005, 12:40

Can't believe I haven't left feedback for this fic before. I absolutely love it!
Lionel and Gabe's association is just so... funny! It's like they're two evil little matchmakers.
Lol, and Paul was so cool!
Can't wait to see how the date ends up! So come back quick please!

sylvia

10th July 2005, 15:01

Chloe picked up her glass and said, “To the bride and groom,” while nodding her head in the direction of the hedges. “Though, that is trite and clichéd, you got anything better for us to toast to? And world domination doesn’t count.” She smiled at the thought of her and Lex forming an evil empire that overlooked Metropolis.

Lex acknowledged her toast, then grinned as an idea came to him “To the domination of the northern hemisphere through free economy,” he said,
Ah, I just love Lex when he's a smartass. The date so far was really entertaining to read -- Paul seems just like the kind of guy to have that sort of annoying-elder-brother type relationship with Chloe. Can't wait for more!

FroggyJump

10th July 2005, 15:05

Paul is such a sweet character that every girl should have someone like him. The resturant sounds precious too. What a first date to have but I guess you can only go up after one of you has tried to pull a round house kick on you. Once again guys great installment.

JosiCuervo

10th July 2005, 16:57

A/N: Blue: It's frigging long so if you think we cut at an odd place, please send an email to bluesabbycomplaintsthatwedon'tcareabout@yahoo.hotm ail.com and enjoy!
:rofl: I’m gonna get one of those…

He would never have had just any doctor attend to his son. Lex was too important to him. But, it seemed, that Lex would never fully understand that. Lionel knew that he was most to blame for that but he hoped that finding Lex a suitable wife would even things out. Though Lex would never know it and continue to hate him until the day he died, Lionel would do anything to ensure that the second part of his life was more full of joy than the first part had been.
I’m so used to various authors writing Lionel as the MB that I’ve been pleasantly surprised by this version. I actually really like this character and I’m having to adjust to not wanting to choke the fucker out…it’s been a learning experience…

Then she had found Hathor. Amidst the city skyscrapers, there was a small botanical garden that held wedding ceremonies and had a small restaurant as well. Chloe had, pardon the expression, fallen in love with the place. While it was named after an Egyptian goddess, it didn’t have any of the kitschy trappings of that.
Sounds quite nice, but I’m curious as to why she would want the date to take place at a place tht typically hold weddings…weird…

“So what made you choose this spot?”

Ok, conversation, she could do this. She and Lex were good at the talking. This didn’t have to feel weird. And, yet, it still did. Chloe just needed to not be so nervous. She had made a fool out of herself more than a few times in front of Lex so what else did she have to lose?

Leaning further back in her chair and making her body relax, she said, “It had a few key elements that we needed. Firstly, no prying eyes staring at us, pencils scribbling down our words or those pesky cameramen that seem to get us into trouble.”

She smiled at the thought of any of the overweight lensmen that she knew trying to shove themselves in the bushes.

“But, more than that,” she looked around and shrugged, “it’s pretty and I like it here. “Plus,” she said, picking up the menus and handing one to him, “the food is absolutely amazing.”
Thanks for clearing that up. And here I was, hoping it was a front for mindless sexual luncheon romps…I stand corrected…

Paul took the extended hand and shook it vigorously. “Good grip,” he muttered under his breath. He was a firm believer that a handshake told you a lot about a man. He had also noticed that the man took in the scene and yet made no comment about what was going on. Controlled and planning.
I concur…nothing worse than a half-hearted handshake…there’s something disconcerting about a person who can’t even grip a hand firmly. Makes them appear wishy-washy and it just plaid old irritates me…

He noticed that Chloe had her arms crossed over her chest and had quite a pout on her. “Bella, he will never want to take you into his bed with that face.”
Heheh…maybe not to bed, but feel free to bend her over the table…I would not object to that, newp, not at all… :yeahbaby:

She smiled widely as she finished, “I’ll tell your wife about how you treated my poor unsuspecting date.” Felice did not approve of the way her husband acted. At all.
You just have to love a man who gets pushed around by his wife. I can even imagine the confrontation. :grin:

Wondering if they would at least be brought a drink sometime soon, he cast a casual glance around, his eyes falling on what was obviously a weeding reception going on across the lawn. Lex felt pity for whatever poor sod happened to be the groom.
Ahh…a man as cynical as I am. Yes, I do think we’re perfect for each other. I suppose it’s a cruel twist of fate to consider myself perfect for a fictional character…

“Hmm, interesting.” He had tasted wine that did indeed leave a sour, musty tang on his tongue, but that usually only happened with cheap wine. Then again, far be it from him to make judgments.
Huh. Lex Luthor reserve judgment on something? That’s like Clark Kent not being a superficial, arrogant, hypocritical shithead. It’s just not fucking possible….

Chloe saw that Katerina was coming back with two plates full of steaming food and she got excited. It was a holdover from when she was a kid. Eating out had been a real treat when she was younger. But, even though Paul’s food was amazing, she still thought it couldn’t compare to her dad.
I just get excited about good food in general. It’s my other vice, apart from smutty fiction. I heart food more than breathing, more than sex, more than Michael Rosenbaum’s wang…okay, that’s a stretch, but I do have a rather unhealthy obsession with food…

Blue~Sabby…Great date so far…and I see nothing wrong with the break in this chapter, so I will refrain from sending any complaints to the email address provided. I’m going to keep the address on hand though, for use later when you don’t have Lex bend Chloe over the table and fuck her brains out in public. That’d be hawt… ;) …looking forward to more! Update soon!

~Erica

arkakitty

10th July 2005, 19:13

I looooooooooooooooooove Paul :)

His character is sooooooooooo great. Please post it soon!

star del mar

16th July 2005, 04:56

Another great update!! I think Lionel is thinking a little too long term when it comes to naming their grandchildren but I guess a guy can dream…especially him, though if things don’t start moving at a faster rate it might turn into bullying, lol. And Paul, what a character!! He was great! He was just the right amount of fun, blunt, and embarrassing. Chloe and Lex seem at ease so far so I’ll just keep my fingers crossed and hope for the best, update again soon!

Steph*

tigroon

16th July 2005, 16:30

Argh Star del mar, you had me believe the new chapter was up already !
FYI Blue and Sabby have been updating like clockwork every saturday...
Blue & Sabby, don't you dare go on vacation this summer ! we need the weekly updates!

BlueSabby

16th July 2005, 23:12

A/N: Sabby: The date has an end after all. Those of you who have ever dated a Yuppy will find this awfully familiar.... Enough with the spoiling. Have fun!

A/N: See, now that it's known that we update every Saturday, you're just *tempting* us to mess with all of you and not update. *ponders* Enjoy the update....while you've got one. *eg*

Off in the distance, Chloe heard the clinking of glasses and then the cheer when the bride and groom kissed on command.

Lex stifled all urges to make a face and hoped that it couldn't be too bad. He was actually a damn picky eater. But during his years on dinner banquets, he'd learned to bear it with a smirk and wash it down with whatever drink was there. A pity really, that he'd have to use good wine as mouth wash if worse came to worst.

“I'm sure it'll be alright,” he answered, ignoring the commotion going on at the other side of the lawn, mostly. “Poor sod,” he muttered under his breath, shaking his head while Chloe's view of him was obscured by the waitress setting down his plate.

She wasn’t sure if she was supposed to hear Lex’s comment, but she did. And, after the cryptic thing he had said before, she couldn’t stifle her curiosity anymore. Lex thanked Katerina and she turned back to Chloe, winked, and then left again.

Before Chloe could respond to Lex she appraised her food. A girl had to have priorities. It was a pasta dish with red sauce and Paul appeared to have thrown everything onto the plate. She recognized the various meats, some seafood and other things she couldn’t identify. Her stomach grumbled a little too loudly when the smell hit her nose and she blushed a little.

Trying to focus on something else, she said, “Why is he a poor sod? You know something about the bride that he doesn’t?” She asked the question in good nature as she picked up her fork.

Lex looked at the assorted food on his plate and tried to find something on it that looked edible, so far, not succeeding. Whoever would throw seafood on the same plate as beef tartar? Poking an errand carrot out of the mess, he shook his head. At Chloe's question he looked up at her, then over at the happy couple, before returning his gaze to Chloe.

“No, but statistics don't give them much of a chance and experience tells me he's going to regret if he hasn't let her sign a pre-nup,” he said blandly. Thinking about it, “And even if there is one, he's still going to regret it.”

Only after the fact did he notice that his statement might have come across as a tad bitter. It was downright unsettling how talking to Chloe seemed to get him to say things he'd wisely shut up about with anyone else.

Chloe had to stop herself from barreling ahead and saying something either stupid or hurtful towards Lex. She had to try and understand where he was coming from before just laying into him for his attitude. It was only natural that he would feel that way after how many marriages he’d been in and the close calls, as well.

But, it still tweaked something inside her to know that he honestly felt that way. Chloe didn’t fancy herself a hopeless romantic, but she didn’t see Lex eye to eye on this one. Even if he was thinking about himself. The reason that things hadn’t worked out had all to do with the women he picked and nothing to do with a defect in him.

She shrugged one shoulder and said, “And yet people keep taking the plunge. Must be some sort of wide spread insanity. Maybe we should look into the meteor rock influence.” Chloe twirled some pasta around her fork and, before putting it in her mouth asked, “Does that mean you won’t attend my blessed event when it occurs?”

Lex chuckled, taking another sip of his wine. “Oh I don't fool myself into thinking that there's an outside cause for it. It's driven entirely out of selfish motivations, whatever they may be.”

The answer to her question didn't beg much thought either. Honestly, he couldn't see the woman before him fall for some romantic concept, given her own comments regarding her relationships reflected through her father's reception of them. But if she wanted to hold on to that dream. He shrugged, “And if you should ever decide to take the leap, I'll be happy to attend,” he said. 'If only to say I told you so when the inevitable happens some time down the line,' he didn't say.

Chloe looked over at Lex and narrowed her eyes. There was a look on his face that vaguely reminded her of her father. When she told him about the new man in her life. “You’re totally thinking about how you’ll come just to slip me the card of the premier divorce attorney in Kansas, aren’t you?”

She decided that as long as the topic of conversation was her then Lex should be ok with discussing it. She feigned outrage and said, “You just don’t think that I can keep a man.” She picked up her glass and saw what she thought was amusement in Lex’s eyes. “Or that it would be some sort of unconscious death wish on his part. I assure you that I can be quite sweet, girly, demure and downright lovely when I want to be.” She threw her hair off of her shoulders and harrmmphed for good measure.

Lex almost snorted into his own drink. “Now being the perfect example, for instance,” he commented dryly.

It was quite amusing to see her all indignant about the hypothetical possibility of a marriage and consequent divorce, even though he hadn't even said anything about it, much less put the blame. “And I didn't say that it would be your fault. Sometimes, there isn't even someone to blame,” he shrugged.

Case in point, wife number three. They'd simply not worked out. Neither of them had been cheating on the other, they had both been comfortable and she hadn't even had a problem with the thought of children. Lex still didn't know why they had started turning away from each other so much that they hardly even spoke, much less had sex anymore, but one day he'd come to his office to find a stack of papers on his desk, asking him to sign on the marked lines.

Chloe didn’t know if he was talking about himself now or just speaking rhetorically. And then there was the added new twist that he had thrown her way. That he allowed for the possibility that there wasn’t always a person to point the finger at. Then again, it wasn’t fair of her to assume that he took no responsibility for his bad luck.

“Ok, I’ll agree to that. Obviously,” she said, taking another drink, “if I get divorced it will be all his fault.” She licked the corner of her mouth to get rid of some stray sauce and said, “Though, I can’t admit to being perfectly innocent in my last breakup.” She paused, “Or the one before that.”

Arching a brow, Lex didn't bother to hide the grin. “Or the one before that?”

He knew it was dangerous to tread on that ground, so he moved on before Chloe could get too indignant and launch into a tirade, which would have them right back fighting again. “In the end it doesn't matter whose fault it is, really. It doesn't even make much of a difference in terms of alimony, sadly,” he grimaced at the thought of wife number 5. “Thankfully, there's always the option to just exclude that possible problem from your life.”

Which he'd successfully done, by setting his plan in motion. One-Night-Stands and safer sex, simple as that. Eternal bachelorhood and the end of the Luthor line unfortunately went right along with it, but if Lionel wanted another heir so badly, he could damn well produce it himself. Lex had drawn a line, calculated the numbers and come to a realistic conclusion.

Not even knowing why, Lex’s words caused Chloe to falter a little. His last words were said very resolutely and almost to himself. She looked over at him and studied his face, realization finally dawning. “You have no intention of ever getting married again, do you?”

This was a strange turn of events. Lex getting married was like the changing of the seasons and the Cubs never winning the World Series, it was something that one could count on. Of course, the reason that Lex had to keep getting married was his choice of whores masquerading as actual women.

Finishing the last swig from his glass, he looked back at Chloe, intrigued why she sounded so surprised and, if he thought correctly, incredulous at this turn of events.

“Most certainly not,” he answered. “I think I've given it more second chances than most and quite frankly,” he paused. “It's not worth it,” he shrugged.

The plan also had the added benefit of never again having to worry about what women thought of him, or his decisions, his lifestyle, his choice of work, friends and whatever else they loved to nit-pick on. As long as they considered him attractive, or rich enough for the moment things were in his favor.

Chloe just blinked over at him. On one hand, she could understand what he was thinking and where he was coming from. On the other, he was being a total ass. Yes, he had given it numerous second chances, but when you continued to marry the variation on the same woman, she didn’t think that it really counted.

She didn’t want to offend Lex by telling him that he was being a fool, or start an argument, so she just said, “I’m not surprised that you would feel that way after your experiences.”

But that didn’t mean that she agreed with his decision. Lex had horrible luck with women but it was something that he could change. Plus, she thought it was out of his character to just give up on something because it caused him problems. If anything, that usually made him more tenacious and driven to conquer whatever it was.

Lex could see that she didn't get it. She was trying to be nice about it, but she looked like she was contemplating calling the nice guys with the white jackets.

“I have the feeling this is the last thing you were expecting to hear from me,” he said. Of course given his character, it wouldn't spring to mind right away that Lex would 'throw in the towel'. However, he didn't see it as that. “I'm not saying that I'll go celibate, Chloe. I just decided to keep my freedom. Is that so hard to believe?”

She didn’t want to fight. She really didn’t…but Lex was drawing her into it, anyway. “No, it’s not hard to think that you would want to keep your freedom.” She took a sip of her drink before continuing. Lex was watching her carefully and she knew that he knew her words were being carefully chosen.

“But, call me optimistic, idealistic or stupid, but I don’t think that getting married necessarily means giving up your freedom.” Her eyes briefly went back over to the reception area. “I think that finding someone that you’re actually compatible with is freeing, in and of itself.”

The past relationships she’d been in hadn’t been about long term goals and a shared understanding of any big picture plans. Which is why they had ended. They were transient things while Chloe waited for something, or someone, who was worth putting up with the everyday annoyances for.

Thinking about the way she was with her past few boyfriends, Chloe said, “You wouldn’t have to deal with all the bullshit about being polite or worrying about having to hide your true nature. Theoretically, that person knows you and accepts the faults that you have.”

She crossed one leg over the other and leaned back in the chair, hearing it creak as her body shifted, “Plus, it’s just a waste,” she said, looking at him. “Not to get all Hallmark on you, but I think that you would be able to make a woman who was crazy enough to take you on very happy. And, more importantly, vice versa.”

During their time in Smallville, Chloe had thought that she and Lex had more in common than either of them was willing to admit. People didn’t get them, were often put off by their honestly…and they were treated shittily by their friends. So, when she was telling all of this to Lex, she realized that it applied to herself as well.

Lex nodded, slowly understanding where Chloe was coming from. It was indeed a bit idealistic. “I don't think it's stupid to believe in the romantic idea of marriage. And I've seen it happen,” he paused, keeping himself from adding 'For people out of the spotlight and lower on the food chain.'

Ignoring her backhanded compliment for the moment, he went on with the point. “But I've had my fare share of trial and error and reached the end of the rope. Don't think that all my wives were the same. Contrary to popular belief, they weren't, even if most of them shared the same hair color,” he commented with a smirk before taking another sip of his drink.

Trying to sort it out in his head, he started with the easiest. “You remember my first two wives, Desiree and Helen, so we don't need to get into details with them, wife number three, very similar to Helen, except she didn't want to kill me for my money. We eventually stopped talking and one day, I had the divorce papers waiting on my desk.” Starting to tick the exwives off on his fingers, he went on.

“Wife number four, let's see. Lower on the social scale, but still fairly intelligent. Took her three months to tell me she didn't want children, because it might ruin her figure, even though she'd shown herself as a perfect family person and whenever asked proclaimed she couldn't wait to start her own family.” Thinking a moment he followed through.

“Wife number five,” that had been painful, to say the least. “Didn't try to kill me, but planned on getting my money sooner rather than later, which she got by filing divorce out of the blue, 6 months after the marriage started. Claimed I was cheating on her with my work,” he snorted derisively. “I still pay her alimony, because amazingly enough, I didn't bribe or blackmail the judges and she got through with this ridiculous case.” Taking a rather deep draught of his drink, he looked Chloe straight in the eyes. “Despite prenup.”

Five down, 3 to go. Well, two and a half more like. “Wife number six, I gave up on the hope of finding an intelligent woman who wasn't after my money, or my life. From there it really went downhill.” Barking a short laugh at the ridiculousness of that certain marriage he commented dryly, “She left me for a drummer and is now happily married with two children and a third on the way.”

Almost through. “Wife number seven, the one that made it to the press for longer than a week and beyond the society pages. Not smart, not after my life, not brunette, not after my money. Nope, instead all she wanted was a place in the lime light, I gave her that and she rolled with it. I'm sure you remember the headlines and subsequent trial for abuse?”

He shook his head finishing off yet another glass of wine, his meal completely untouched. “I’ve never lifted so much as a hand against a woman,” he muttered darkly, “But by god, she was the first that almost made me want to forget my upbringing.”

Setting his glass aside, finished with his little impromptu travel through time, he looked back at Chloe. “Skylar and I didn't even make it to the altar and last I heard she's hooked up with some bartender.” He shrugged. “That is the long and sordid tale of Lex Luthor's attempts at happily ever after, and of course, all this is off the record.”

Casting another glance at his plate, he still didn't want to eat anything on it. “Those are only the primary 8 reasons why I made the decision to just let the notion go and live my life in a far less stressful way.”

The way in which Lex spoke about his exes was disturbing. He usually didn’t show any emotion so she didn’t expect him to appear hurt or angry while he spoke. But the way he discussed them as if they were business deals gone wrong that then had to be dealt with in the most antiseptic way possible wasn’t, she thought, very normal. Then again, after eight tries at something, it wasn’t out of the ordinary to try and distance yourself from failure.

In any relationship, there had to be a give and take. When people broke it up it was usually easy to see how they had each contributed to the event occurring. With a certain number of the aforementioned women, Chloe could see that Lex hadn’t been at fault. With others, she wasn’t so sure. She knew that he could be very cold when he wanted to be and wondered if he had ever opened up even a little with some of them. It might be trite and touchy feely but communication was important and she couldn’t see Lex actually discussing with the women what was going on in his life. But, perhaps she wasn’t in a position to judge that. After all, she still didn’t know Lex all that well.

Because of that thought, she was downright shocked that Lex was telling her these things. Whenever one of his marriages went South, there was always rampant speculation about what had caused it. Mostly due to the fact that both parties were tight-lipped about what had happened. Lex because he did not discuss such matters and the women because, Chloe assumed, they had been paid off not to talk. Except for one of them. Chloe clearly remembered all of the press about the trial.

Even then, she had been disgusted with the way the media was handling the story. The woman’s claims were wild and didn’t gibe with what little Chloe knew about Lex.

There was a common thread that ran throughout all of the relationships, though. Lex and his wives had been ill-suited for one another. With some it had been obvious but with others they had hidden the truth from him before it was too late. Chloe tried to remember how long Lex had ‘dated’ the women before marrying them and was under the impression that it had not been too long a period of time. Looking before you leapt and throwing caution to the wind might work in business but it was hell on one’s personal life.

And why was she making excuses for Lex to continue to try to find a suitable wife? It didn’t sit well with her. But she couldn’t pinpoint the exact reason.

“Those are all excellent reasons for not wanting to go ahead with it again,” Chloe said, slowly. And they were. Hell, after having those experiences, Chloe was damn sure that she’d have just as much trepidation as Lex did. But, it didn’t change the fact that she thought he was wrong about the whole thing.

She could let it go……but wouldn’t.

“I don’t mean to belabor the point, Lex, or to say that I don’t understand why you’ve made this….” She paused, deciding not to throw in an adjective that was a synonym for stupid, hasty or strange, “decision, but I still think that those women had something in common. And, I’m not just talking physically.”

Lex had forgotten to mention that they were all drop dead gorgeous. That didn’t necessarily mean that they were all horrible people but it was obvious Lex had only seen that part of them when saying his vows.

“They were women that you didn’t know very well before you got married. Or, if you did know them, you didn’t know them well enough to be able to tell when they were lying.” Which was rather odd because Chloe remembered that Lex had a nose for things like that.

Lex had a blank look on his face when she spoke, but it didn’t bother Chloe. She knew that whatever she said would have zero effect on his decision. But, someone had to say this to him.

“I realize that marriage isn’t the be all and end all to life.” She pushed her plate away from her, she wasn’t very hungry anymore. “And it isn’t suited for some people to be married to one another.” Chloe thought about her own parent’s marriage.

“But,” she shrugged, “even throughout your numerous marriages, I always thought that you’d finally find the right one and shock the rest of the globe by staying with her.”

Lex wasn’t evil and he wasn’t as standoffish as he wanted people to believe. If he ever allowed himself to let the right person in, she had no doubt about his ability to work through his shit and stay with her.

He had the feeling they were talking in circles and it was downright frightening how much she sounded like his father in a way. At least she was of the same opinion as his father which had automatically caused his face to go completely blank while he let whatever point she made wash over him like water of a duck's back. Interestingly enough, it wasn't half as infuriating as it had been when Lionel had tried to make his point, over and over again.

When she was finally done, he gave her a smirk at her last comment, shaking his head. 'Not like I haven't tried'. “Some people are just meant to end up alone, I think. It's not a big loss on my part. Granted, my father isn't pleased with my decision and probably contemplating tying the knot himself again to produce another heir ASAP,” he shrugged a shoulder, “But that isn't my problem.”

However, some of her arguments rang true. He hadn't taken much time with getting to know the women past a certain point. Of course he'd had files on all of them, checked their back ground and put together all data that might have come to bite him in the ass. Then again, it turned out that files and data weren't always as thorough and helpful as they claimed to be. If they were, wife number seven and the whole mess that came with her would never have happened.

Trying to convince Lex that he wasn’t one of those people that he spoke about was futile and Chloe knew it. It made her a little sad to see that he viewed himself in that way. And, she knew that it was a big loss on his part.

Sure, part of the reason he got married was based on logic. Lex knew that he needed an heir and it was always good to have a wife for social reasons. However, she believed that part of him kept doing that for a deeper reason. A reason that she wasn’t going to get into with him. It wasn’t her place to psychoanalyze him. Even if it appeared as if he didn’t have anyone else to talk to.

Chloe sighed, and tried to let it go. The conversation had put Lex off of eating and wasn’t any of her business…even if he had brought it up. Plus, she wasn’t going to make any headway with him.

“I don’t understand or agree with your decision, Lex,” she said, while looking up at him, “but I’ll respect it.” She knew that if someone had tried to talk her out of a huge decision like this one she would resent them. And, she didn’t want that happening with her and Lex.

Though, she was fairly certain that this would be their last date. During the course of it, she had realized something.

She could fall for Lex. She was attracted to him and enjoyed his company. She wasn’t in love with him and didn’t have a crush on him just yet. But, she could see it getting to that point.

And, that would lead to nowhere but to a broken heart. So, she supposed, they’d have to continue on with their association as acquaintances…or whatever the hell they were to one another.

Changing the subject, she said, “Sorry that you didn’t like the food.” Even though Lex had stopped eating when they started to discuss his marital status, he hadn’t exactly been digging in before that. She gestured to his plate and said, “Paul can get a little too crazy, sometimes.”

“True, for a moment I was afraid I would find escargot hiding behind the salad,” he paused, taking a closer look. “That is salad, right?” If it wasn't, he simply didn't want to know.

When Chloe laughed, he realized that they had just managed to have a discussion about a topic they didn't see eye to eye on, without breaking into a fight. They'd in fact managed to stay civil at all times, even though they couldn't have a more contrary opinion. 'Huh' Lex chuckled, amazed at this turn of events. Maybe if this trend continued, he could get an honest friend out of this. It'd been years since luck was on his side in that department, he figured it was way over due to strike again.

“I have a proposition for you,” he offered. “I don't hurt Paul's feelings about his rather, unique idea of cuisine and in turn,” he let his sentence dangle, debating with himself if he was really going to go through with this or not.

Watching Lex Luthor, business magnate and multibillionaire, poke around the food on his plate looking like a slightly pouty child had pulled Chloe out of her darker mood. As did his comment about what, exactly, was on his plate.

She put down her own fork when Lex started to speak and leaned forward. He stopped before getting to the second part of his proposition. “In turn?” She waited for him to finish, truly interested in what he was going to ask her. Lex was always very decisive but she sensed some hesitation. Which was interesting in and of itself.

Taking a breath, he decided to take the plunge. Proverbially speaking. “In turn I get to choose the restaurant next time,” he said, pushing his plate as far away as possible without crashing it to the floor.

Now the ball was in her court and he wondered if she would take him up on his offer. Lex didn't fool himself into thinking that she hadn't had some intention behind it when she invited him to this date. Now that he'd put the cards on the table and pretty much declared there was no chance that anything was going to happen between them, he wondered if she was still interested in seeing him again.

Lex was studying her face for her reaction. And Chloe wasn’t even sure what it was so he must be having a difficult time of it. Needles to say, she was surprised. Their relationship, whatever it was, had never been smooth. Though, they hadn’t fought today so that was saying something.

It was still a little strange for her to think that Lex would be interested in seeing her again in any capacity being that she seemed to get on his nerves most of the time. But, right now, he looked relaxed and not the least bit vexed with her. Maybe they were making some progress.

She did want to see him again. That much she knew, she was just worried about that thing that she had thought about before that she had no intention of thinking about again. But, it wasn’t fair to punish Lex because of her own confused emotions.

“Agreed,” she said after making her decision. “Just as long as it’s not payback for this place,” she added with a smile. “No still moving squid that I have to kill myself with a skewer. Cause, then you’d end up with a shattered eardrum from all my shrieking.”

She laughed at the visual image of her screaming her head off up on a table and Lex just sitting in his seat and looking at her curiously. And then telling a waiter to have her removed.

Lex stifled a snicker at the mental image of Chloe trying to harpoon her food while making a hysterical spectacle of herself. “No Japanese then, got it,” he shot back.

That left a lot of options open and he was already going through a list of his favorite restaurants that were low key enough to avoid stirring the press' interest. Leaning back in his chair, he cast a casual glance at his watch. And cursed a blue streak.

“I hate to do this, but I have to go. I'll call you some time this week, then we can figure out the specifics.” Lex got up from his chair, and pulled out his wallet, internally still cursing.

He'd completely forgotten to make the call that would postpone the meeting and his father would probably have his balls when he returned to the office. Since he hadn't postponed the meeting, their business partners had been waiting for him, in vain, for almost an hour. He threw a hundred on the table and gave Chloe a last look, not sure how to explain himself, or why he even wanted to explain himself.

“I'll call you later,” he managed to get out, already on the way towards the doors and back to his car.

Chloe watched half in amusement and half in scientific detachment as Lex acted very much unlike himself. He seemed as close to flustered as she wagered he got and was speaking in a rapid fire pattern. He had clearly forgotten something and had to run. Right now.

He hadn’t even really waited for a response from her and was walking briskly towards the exit. “Okaaay,” she said to no one in particular.

She saw Katerina pass Lex on the way to her table and asked Chloe, “Scare another one off,” before taking away her plate. It was an old inside joke between the two of them. The last time that someone had left Chloe that fast at this place was when she had dumped a lapful of ouzo on her date.

Chloe shrugged one shoulder and grinned, “Maybe. But I don’t think he’ll have to dry clean his pants this time.” She gestured to the money on the table. “You had better take that before Paul sees and then stalks Lex to return it.” Those that were considered family were not permitted to pay. It was considered an insult to Paul.

Katerina’s eyes lit up and she quickly snatched the money off of the table, “I like that guy, you should bring him here more often.”

Chloe chuckled as the young woman walked away. She reflected on her date and decided that it had been the strangest she had ever had. But, in a strange way, it had also been one of the nicest. Chloe stood up and walked back towards the main building, not looking forward to the grilling she would get from Paul.

lexchloe

17th July 2005, 00:27

Great update. Nice to see them have a difference of opinion without it turning into a yelling match and liked that Chloe was arguing in favour of marriage. Very interesting to hear Lex's thoughts on the issue and about his ex-wives.

Though, she was fairly certain that this would be their last date. During the course of it, she had realized something.

She could fall for Lex. She was attracted to him and enjoyed his company. She wasn’t in love with him and didn’t have a crush on him just yet. But, she could see it getting to that point.

And, that would lead to nowhere but to a broken heart. So, she supposed, they’d have to continue on with their association as acquaintances…or whatever the hell they were to one another.

Yay, love that Chloe is having these thoughts and believes that she could develop these types of feelings for Lex. Hopefully the fact that their relationship is signifcantly different from those with his other ex-wives will mean that he'll change his mind and she won't end up broken hearted. Glad Lex made the move for the next date and can't wait to see how things progress further between them.

hfce

17th July 2005, 03:22

Great update girls. I loved how they are maturing each time they get together and talk. They see now they can disagree without tearing eachother apart. I am glad Chloe thought she can actually fall for Lex. I hope Lex sees that in the future. ;)

Hope :D

jaxie926

17th July 2005, 06:50

Ok so I'm reading along and I see this:

Though, she was fairly certain that this would be their last date. During the course of it, she had realized something.
She could fall for Lex. She was attracted to him and enjoyed his company. She wasn’t in love with him and didn’t have a crush on him just yet. But, she could see it getting to that point. *squee*

Then I keep reading and see this:

And, that would lead to nowhere but to a broken heart. So, she supposed, they’d have to continue on with their association as acquaintances…or whatever the hell they were to one another. *pouts*

But ok, I'm a realist. Chloe would think that. So we've got a way's to go before realization hits them here. And I still LOVE that they're doing this on their own, w/o too much help from the Lionabe. *g*

star del mar

17th July 2005, 08:31

I'm absolutely AMAZED at how civil that was, I could have seen that conversation escalating very quickly if the right words hadn't been chosen. At least Lex and Chloe can understand each others point of view without forcing it on the other. They're having another date!! AGHH!! Granted I don't think Lex views it as such but I'm still happy that Chloe is seeing him in a new light. Great update!!

Steph*

SinnerSaint

17th July 2005, 08:44

I really liked their discussion during dinner. Most people will not talk about past relationship mistakes for fear of scaring off the other person , but I think that Lex and Chloe now have a clearer understanding of each other. And I love the whole cynicism versus idealism thing going on.

BellaMR

17th July 2005, 08:48

First of all, I resent this:

Lex getting married was like the changing of the seasons and the Cubs never winning the World Series, it was something that one could count on. The Cubs could win eventually, maybe. There is always next year, right. :P

Other than that, an excellant chapter.
It was depressing listening to Lex talk about never getting married again. I think he is beginning to realize how lonely his life is going to be, especially after this thought:
Maybe if this trend continued, he could get an honest friend out of this. It'd been years since luck was on his side in that department, he figured it was way over due to strike again. So very sad. Poor Lex. However, it shows great hope for the future. Afterall, wasn't Chloe just saying that he needs to get to know the women before he sctually marries them. What better way then to be friends first?

arkakitty

17th July 2005, 14:41

Oh this was fun :)

I loved their banter, please more soon.

Louie

18th July 2005, 17:38

Ok, first sweet for the waitress hundred doller tip, even though Lex shouldn't have paid as Chloe asked him out, but when you think everyone's after your money what else can you expect.

Can't wait to see what the fathers think of what happened.

campbti

18th July 2005, 19:25

Wow, I just read the last two chapter updates and I just love this story. I must apologize for any comments I make about "hurrying the hell UP" cause it is just my impatient nature. But really I love the way you guys build stories and let their characters really develop (no matter how frustrated I get). :blinkkiss

So continue on with this great story. Love Lionel and his name picking. I hope Chloe is able to convince Lex it really does all depend on choosing the right person. Can't wait for a analysis of the date. More soon. PLEASE!!!

meg20

18th July 2005, 20:10

Wonderful updates, love Chlex more in every chapter. I like the idea of Lex opening up to Chloe and specially the promise of a next date I can eagerly wait!!!!

Kit Merlot

19th July 2005, 17:04

Okay, when Lex started talking about all of his marriages, I felt really bad for him, but then Chloe rightly pointed out that he kept marrying the same type of woman.

And I liked that he sat and listened to Chloe, and didn't start arguing with her. But the best part was that Lex wanted to have another date with Chloe--OH YEAH!!

I can't wait for Gabe and Lionel to hear about this :D

teejei

19th July 2005, 21:05

woohoo! another date! :clapclap:

oh, the paternal units would be soooo proud! :love2:

JosiCuervo

21st July 2005, 16:34

Lex stifled all urges to make a face and hoped that it couldn't be too bad. He was actually a damn picky eater. But during his years on dinner banquets, he'd learned to bear it with a smirk and wash it down with whatever drink was there. A pity really, that he'd have to use good wine as mouth wash if worse came to worst.
It’s definitely a shame to have to use good wine as a chaser, but it’s an even greater shame to miss out on all the really great gastronomic choices due to ignorant snobbery. :wth: Sorry…my b/f is terribly picky and it drives me absolutely nuts…carry on.

Before Chloe could respond to Lex she appraised her food. A girl had to have priorities.
I concur…

“Or that it would be some sort of unconscious death wish on his part. I assure you that I can be quite sweet, girly, demure and downright lovely when I want to be.” She threw her hair off of her shoulders and harrmmphed for good measure.
Ya…I’ve tried that line with my family and friends and they were like… :wth: …“As…If”…almost hurt my feelings…seriously.

“But, call me optimistic, idealistic or stupid, but I don’t think that getting married necessarily means giving up your freedom.” Her eyes briefly went back over to the reception area. “I think that finding someone that you’re actually compatible with is freeing, in and of itself.”
Ahhh…pessimistic, realistic, clever me…*cough*stupid*cough*…I seem to always skip over the compatible attribute and go straight for attractive, arrogant asshole…though I’ve been told one asshole deserves another…

The past relationships she’d been in hadn’t been about long term goals and a shared understanding of any big picture plans. Which is why they had ended. They were transient things while Chloe waited for something, or someone, who was worth putting up with the everyday annoyances for.
The next time my Mother makes inquiries regarding my unmarried status, I’m going to quote this, word-for-word. I will also add that the chances of my ever running into such a man are slim to none, so she had better refrain from holding her breath…

Thinking about the way she was with her past few boyfriends, Chloe said, “You wouldn’t have to deal with all the bullshit about being polite or worrying about having to hide your true nature. Theoretically, that person knows you and accepts the faults that you have.”
*gasp* Wow. Maybe I should rethink my cynicism and send out a soul mate search partay…does that mean I’d be required to shave my cooch on a regular basis?

She could let it go……but wouldn’t.
Heheh…that's so me...

When she was finally done, he gave her a smirk at her last comment, shaking his head. 'Not like I haven't tried'. “Some people are just meant to end up alone, I think. It's not a big loss on my part. Granted, my father isn't pleased with my decision and probably contemplating tying the knot himself again to produce another heir ASAP,” he shrugged a shoulder, “But that isn't my problem.”
I’ve often wondered this as well. My current b/f is an only child…actually if he doesn’t have a little boy to carry on the family name he’s the end of the line. I’ve made my POV very clear regarding my desire to NOT procreate and he’s still fighting me on it, like it’s actually something you can compromise on. Men are dumb…

Watching Lex Luthor, business magnate and multibillionaire, poke around the food on his plate looking like a slightly pouty child had pulled Chloe out of her darker mood. As did his comment about what, exactly, was on his plate.
Love the visual! :D

Lex stifled a snicker at the mental image of Chloe trying to harpoon her food while making a hysterical spectacle of herself. “No Japanese then, got it,” he shot back.
No Japanese? Surely you jest! That’s just… blasphemous…I heart Japanese and they’ll cook whateva you want! :P

She saw Katerina pass Lex on the way to her table and asked Chloe, “Scare another one off,” before taking away her plate. It was an old inside joke between the two of them. The last time that someone had left Chloe that fast at this place was when she had dumped a lapful of ouzo on her date.
I’d really like to know what he did to deserve a lap full of ouzo…sounds hilarious.

Blue ~ Sabby ~ Interesting update. I’m very disappointed in picky Lex, but I’m hoping he’ll redeem himself when he chooses the restaurant. Japanese or otherwise. And I would not object to some foolin’ around of like, the *Rrrr* nature. :yeahbaby:

~Erica ;)

squash

24th July 2005, 17:39

I just love this fic. I seriously love everything about it. I love lex and I love Chloe and I love how they interact together. You can really see the relationship developing (somewhat against their wills). Great job--loved Paul :)

tigroon

24th July 2005, 17:40

Come on... I know I'm a rotten reviewer but surely you wouldn't withhold our weekly dose would you ? :beg:

SinnerSaint

24th July 2005, 21:50

Update soon pretty please ?!? I am seriously anxiously awaiting the next installment. Hurry !!!!

Nadia_

24th July 2005, 22:10

Come on... I know I'm a rotten reviewer but surely you wouldn't withhold our weekly dose would you ? :beg:

Ditto!

I really wanna see what the matchmaker dads are going to do now!

jess

25th July 2005, 10:24

I'll have you know that I got so addicted to this story that I was up until 4:30am reading this! (Side note: It takes about 7hrs to read this entire story through.) The interaction between Lex and Chloe and Lionel and Gabe are wonderful. I am horrible at lurking but I just had to say how great this story is. Pat yourselves on the back and get writing. I want another update...Now! Please?

kimmie

25th July 2005, 11:26

Where's the update...? Please say its coming soon....

Kimmie

dreamerjules

25th July 2005, 16:47

Please post the update. We've been ever so very good and patient.

Louie

25th July 2005, 19:06

Oh, your being ever so mean carring out that threat.

starmak2000

26th July 2005, 17:36

This is a great fic.I was hooked in the first couple of chapters.Now I'm addicted.Please update!

BellaMR

26th July 2005, 22:11

I absolutely love your fic :love2:

:puppydog: But what happened to our update. :puppydog:

:beg: Please come back soon.

Addie

27th July 2005, 02:00

I love this fic, please update soon. Its been over a week since the last part.

SinnerSaint

27th July 2005, 03:37

Where oh where is our update please ? Please update soon !

teejei

28th July 2005, 05:03

just talked with Sabby yesterday...update will be coming up this saturday.

didn't get much spoilers from her though, but it's gonna be worth the wait. :D

reginarhea23

28th July 2005, 05:08

Just discovered this story and I love it! The budding Chlex relationship is great and I love the interaction between Lionel and Gabe.

BlueSabby

30th July 2005, 17:41

A/N:Sabby: We got something for the Luthor family dynamic lovers among you though. Hope you like it. Feedback is as always greatly appreciated *G*.

A/N: Blue: Here's the next chapter. After the last being chock full o' Chlex this one is, well, not. Enjoy!

Lionel was in a rare mood. Celeste had, on his command, set up a live feed from the restaurant that Chloe and Lex had gone to. She had people positioned on the outskirts of the building with high powered mics. They weren’t able to see their children, only hear them. Which was why Lionel now thought it a good idea to swipe all of the papers off of his desk.

Gabe had said very little to him after the date had gone downhill. Lionel still couldn’t believe that Lex had told Chloe his harebrained scheme about never marrying again. And the girl hadn’t pushed him too hard on it, either. It didn’t matter that they were getting together again, it was of little comfort.
Their children were quickly becoming friends. And, while Celeste assured him that it was a good turn of events, Lionel refused to believe it. He had decided to be in a bad mood and that was that. Gabe had steered clear of him and Lionel was fine with that.

Also, he had cancelled the afternoon meeting that had been slated for he and Lex when the date had been going well. So, now he had to reschedule it for during the week. He looked around his office for something else to throw.

Lex started to open the door to his father’s office, only to close it again quickly, when he caught a glimpse of some heavy looking object flying his way. Hearing whatever it was crash against the other side of the door, he took a deep breath and steeled himself. This was not going to be good. Releasing the breath and listening for a moment, he opened the door again and entered the room.

Stepping over the shards of what he now recognized as some sort of pottery, he approached his father. Lionel looked livid. “Dad,” he dead-panned.

'Three, two, one...'

“Oh, hello son,” Lionel said, affecting a cool voice. “So nice to see you.” He could be an asshole now because Lex would expect him to be mad about missing the meeting. Or being late to it. But, eventually his son would notice that no one was in any of the offices.

“I hope your day has been going well.” You stubborn idiot. He didn’t understand why his son wouldn’t just give in and fall in love with Chloe. It should be so simple.

Lex's brow arched. That was new. Usually, Lionel would blow up right away and make a huge spectacle, threatening with everything from disowning to dismembering him.

“Thanks, I realize that I should've been here earlier, but I'm afraid something kept my attention,” he offered vaguely. If he'd learned one thing and learned it fast, it was that apologies didn't help. In fact they made things worse. An explanation would usually have a slightly better effect, depending on how good it was.

He had found the rooms that had been set up for the meeting empty, so he could only assume that the other party had left in a snit. Which meant he'd have to put a shitload of effort into getting them to forgive and move on and still make business with them.

“I hope whatever it was was important,” Lionel said, smoothly. Chloe was important because she was Lex’s future. But the imbecile clearly didn’t see that. He was too busy giving the girl reasons why he couldn’t get married again than realizing that she would be good for him.

He knew that his behavior was throwing his son off balance but it served the boy right for all that he was doing to him. Lionel couldn’t very well enjoy his grandchildren if he had an ulcer or was dead before they were born.

Lex's brows drew together in a frown despite himself before his expression smoothed out again. “It was, but I'll be sure to sort out any trouble it might have caused.”

Why wasn't Lionel blowing up yet? It was so completely unlike him it was scary in its own way. “I'll be in my office,” he said.

Lex might feel bad about the whole thing, but he wouldn't stand here waiting for his father to get his mind together and start throwing a tantrum. That'd be insane.

“OK, Lex,” Lionel said, keeping his voice even. It was getting to his son. And his next statement should confuse the boy even more. “However, you don’t have any damage to repair. The meeting never occurred and has been rescheduled for the upcoming week.”

He sat down at his desk and waited for his son’s reaction. Lionel’s thoughts went back to Lex’s future. It was amazing to think that he hated his father so much that he wouldn’t get married again just to spite him.

“How long have you hated me, Lex?” Lionel knew that the question was out of nowhere and that the answer would be vague, but he wanted an answer.

Lex had been halfway back to the door, confused as to why the meeting would have been rescheduled, when the question hit him. Like a knife to the back, how appropriate. Turning on his heel, he looked back at Lionel, trying to gauge where the old bastard was going with that approach.

”I have no idea what you're talking about,” he answered, “We're not a Rockwellian family by a long shot, but I know you've always had the utmost interest and only the best of intentions for your heir.”

He really didn't want to discuss this. It was too complicated a matter to even contemplate while sober and it wouldn't get them anywhere. Lex had given up hope on that subject long ago. It was an old scar now, ugly, but mostly invisible and it only stung on the odd occasion. Like now.

The acid underlying Lex’s tone was so subtle that Lionel doubted that anyone else would have caught it but him. Even the phrases he had used alerted him to the fact that he had struck a nerve. His son really and truly believed that that was how he saw him. As a possession. A thing.

Lionel had fucked up so spectacularly that his son couldn’t form any sort of relationship with another human being. Lionel could blame Lex all he wanted but he knew that this whole charade was his fault.

“I know that you’re lying,” Lionel said, looking over at his son. “That I’ve trained you to never let on when you’re feeling any type of emotion.” Lionel’s gaze then moved over to the huge window of his office. “That was wrong of me. I was so driven with trying to drive out anything that I considered a weakness that it never occurred to me that I was doing more harm than good.”

His eyes shifted again and rested on a bookshelf. Various quarterly reports were stacked on there now but years ago, a picture of Lillian had rest there. Even after all these years, his eyes still sought out her face where it had rested until he had thrown the picture out, damning himself for the sentimentality that the picture spoke of.

“Your mother would have been so disappointed in me,” he admitted. Lionel had failed her when she was alive and continued to fail her in death. “I never deserved her, you know,” he murmured. “She was always the better of the two of us.”

Lex felt his insides go numb at the rather moving speech of his father. His face followed suit. It was all he ever had wanted to hear, but unfortunately, it was too little, too late. He couldn't believe it if he wanted to. He knew his father too well for that by now and the man had never said or done anything in his life without an agenda. Especially when it came to his heir.

“What do you want, dad? And please, spare me any further heartfelt speeches, just tell me what you're aiming for,” he said.

He purposely kept himself from reacting any more than that, trying to push away the thought of his father going so far as to use Lillian in one of his schemes. He couldn't believe that Lionel would stoop so low. The man knew what his mother had meant to Lex.

For a moment, Lionel considered giving up the ghost and telling Lex what he had been up to. This was the first honest conversation the two of them had ever had and it would be marred by what he was keeping. But telling Lex was not a real option.

“What I’m aiming for,” Lionel said, wearily, “is for you to become the man your mother would have wanted, not the one I pushed on you.” The two wouldn’t have been all that dissimilar. Both driven and successful. However, the former would have been able to deal with relationships far better.

That was something that Lionel had never considered. He raised Lex to be cutthroat and didn’t think about how the consequences of that would play out in every other part of his son’s life.

He realized that Lex would just think he was playing him in some way. This was pointless. Lex was far too similar to his father to listen to him now. Hell, Lionel didn’t think that even he would listen to him at this point.

“I’m truly sorry for what I’ve done to you,” Lionel said, quietly. He never realized how freeing an apology could be. He nodded to himself and then cleared his throat, “I’m sure you want to get back to your office now.”

Lex shook his head minutely, then turned around and left without another word. He would not let the old man fuck with his mind. Whatever Lionel wanted, he'd get behind it soon enough and then the bastard would pay, dearly. Once more stepping over the shards on the floor, he silently closed the door behind himself.

Looking up, he saw the concerned face of his father's secretary. He shot her a smirk, then strode past her confidently as ever. Even though he wasn't feeling it right now. It didn't matter, it would be ok, there was nothing Lionel could throw at him that he wouldn't be able to handle, somehow.

~~~
It was well past seven o’clock by the time Celeste was finally packing up to leave for the day. Knowing that she would be back in her office in less than ten hours time. She had briefly considered just sleeping in one of the offices but rejected the idea immediately. She had stayed so late hoping that Lionel would have called on her again with a new, crazy plan.

He had taken the conversation that Lex had with Chloe to heart. It had hit him very hard and she could see that he was now doubting not only the outcome of this plan but his responsibility in making Lex that way. She far preferred the over the top, slightly crazy, man that she had seen for the past few weeks compared to the one that had left the boardroom a few hours ago.

Gabriel hadn’t gone after him then but she wondered if the two men had spoken after that. Celeste knew that Gabriel was still in the office. She knew his schedule just as well as her own. After using the bathroom to wash her face and get out of her suit, she picked up her briefcase, turned off the lights and left her office.

Instead of proceeding to the parking garage, she made her way to Gabe’s…she was trying to think of him as Gabriel but she still slipped up every now and again, office. She knocked on the door and heard him tell her to come in.

She opened the door and closed it behind her before approaching his desk. Gesturing to one of the empty seats across from him, she asked, “May I?”

He looked a little different than he usually did. Tie loosened and jacket off, he looked younger and…..but she was going to stop her thought process right there. She didn’t mix business with pleasure and she was damn sure that Gabe wouldn’t want pleasure from her.

Gabe looked up from the contract he was going over to see Celeste standing in his doorway. Again, she was wearing a simple gear of nicely tailored pants and a loose blouse, her hair open instead of firmly tied back. Damn, if she wasn't such a hard assed bitch, she would actually be the type of woman...He stopped his thoughts right there. No use thinking about 'if's'

“Celeste, is there something you need,” he asked without preamble, not bothering to get up from his chair.

He'd stayed late to cram in some work. The plan was taking away a good deal of time from his routine day and now he had to make sure he didn't slack too much on what his actual work was. Thankfully he had the freedom to delegate where it was necessary.

Seeing Celeste's gaze fixed on the chair in front of his desk, he resigned himself to the fact that this might take a while. “Take a seat, please,” he said, motioning to the chair.

She murmured a thank you before sitting down. The topic that she was about to broach had nothing to do with the job that she had been tasked with. Gabe might see it as her going over the line and make him dislike her more than he obviously already did but it was a chance that she had to take.

Usually, she didn’t get this emotionally invested in her job. Mostly because she helped people with things that were not on the up and up. Not that it wasn’t the case in this situation, too. But, it was different. The two men honestly wanted what was best for their children and Celeste had to agree and Lex and Chloe were well suited for one another.

“I was wondering if you had spoken to Lionel after this afternoon’s meeting.” She paused before adding, “I’m worried about him.”

Gabe's brow arched in question, wondering where Celeste was headed with her inquiry. “No, I didn't have the opportunity, why?”

Lionel had not been pleased at the turn of events and that had nothing to do with the fact that his son missed a relatively important meeting. What had put a real damper on his mood was the fact that Lex had revealed his very own plan that Gabe hadn't even known about before. How Lionel could've failed to inform him about that was beyond Gabe, but they'd work with it.

Yes, Lex was a stubborn son of a bitch, but this plan had an understandable reason behind it. After hearing the whole sordid story of his experience in the department of love affairs, Gabe could understand he'd back away and stay out of it. On the other hand, Gabe knew that it was going to be a vow hard to keep. One couldn't live like that by choice for eternity, not when the right person came along. And he was convinced Chloe was the right person.

Lionel on the other hand had taken a double blow, not only about the plan, but with the spiteful words Lex had so casually thrown when talking about his father. Maybe he should have talked to Lionel after all. He'd just been too caught up in work.

“I tried to discuss it with him afterwards and he seemed….” Celeste tried to find the right words as she thought back to how she had found Lionel. He had been sitting in his office, staring at nothing in particular. His voice was listless and his shoulders had been slumped forward. It was the first time that he had seemed human instead of some type of a force of nature.

She had been unable to get him into a conversation about the children. That had been a first. The man was not rebounding from the setback and Celeste was more concerned about the implications that held for Lionel than what it meant about the plan.

“Off,” was the best word that she could come up with. “It seemed like he didn’t even care anymore.” She ran a hand through her hair and said, “I know that Lex came back to the office and they had a conversation, my people informed me of that. I spoke with him just a few minutes after Lex left. I think something happened but it’s not my place to intervene.”

She looked up at Gabe and said, “I’m not his friend and he won’t take my approaching him on this topic well.”

Gabe leaned back in his chair, regarding Celeste silently. She looked genuinely concerned, which was a surprise considering she was about as expressive in her mimic as Lionel was outside of the topic of Lex. He wondered what had happened in that meeting between father and son, but he had a feeling if he imagined the worst it would still fall short. The two of them were so similar sometimes but yet on completely different sides of the spectrum in other cases.

Celeste's last comment had also caught him a bit off guard. She hadn't said it in as many words, but the way she had spoken and the fact that she was approaching him about it in the first place inferred that she thought Lionel and he were friends. Gabe wasn't sure what to think of it. Lionel was his boss, first and foremost, yes, but through the plan they'd become closer. The older man had let slip a lot of his cool facade in front of Gabe during the last few weeks and his demeanor had changed not only when they were in private, but also when they interacted in front of other personnel or at meetings.

“And you hope that I can approach him about it without such ramifications,” he stated, his gaze focusing on Celeste once more.

Which brought an interesting question to the surface. “From the moment you've been hired, Lionel and his schemes have been unwelcome for your own plans, why is it important how he feels. Isn't his lack of enthusiasm going to be more convenient?”

From a business angle, it didn't make any sense to care about Lionel's constitution. “I assure you, he won't fire you, no matter how he personally feels about the possibility of a positive outcome.”

Lionel would mope, yes, he'd be desolate and downright cranky and rip off everyone's head within reaching distance, but he'd still keep going with the plan since it couldn't hurt. So that couldn't be the reason Celeste was worried about his emotional state.

“So why do you care,” he asked bluntly.

Celeste was a little taken aback at how cold Gabe obviously thought she was. Only a blind person with no concern for others wouldn’t be affected by the alteration in Lionel’s character. But, she reminded herself that Gabe had seen very little to the contrary so her concern would be suspect to him.

Besides, it was a good question. One that she was having trouble answering even for herself. “I care because I believe in what we’re trying to do here.” That was part of it but it also went deeper.

She made sure to not say his name in her next sentence because she knew she would get it wrong and then he’d heave her from his office. “I have done a lot of questionable things in my line of work, I’m sure that you’re not surprised by that. I get results and I’m compensated quite nicely.”

That didn’t mean that she wasn’t sometimes slightly haunted by her past. The first few jobs she had taken and what she had done….well, the nightmares had faded but they had not disappeared completely.

“Maybe I think that this is my atonement,” she said, softly. Yes, that was part of it, but still not everything. The reason that she cared, she realized, was very simple.

“I care because I like both you and Lionel. And, something is wrong with him. Something that I can’t fix or maybe even understand. He needs to not lose hope. It’s the only thing that we have in this.”

Sure, they had data. They had ways of forcing the children together but this whole plan was based on the hope that their children would see what was now obvious to the three of them.

Gabe blinked. Then blinked again and caught himself just before his jaw could drop. That had been a sincere answer and he found himself actually believing it. It had also been amazing to watch her face when she spoke, going through different expressions as she forced herself to keep going. There was a woman under that cold veneer after all. A very attractive woman that knew how to use suits and a cold facade to get her job done.

“I'll talk to him,” he nodded.

He wasn't sure how much he could do, but since he'd been able to keep Lionel at bay when needed, he should have a chance to do just the opposite and lift his spirits. Scotch, a cigar and a long talk should be able to do it.

“Don't worry,” he smirked, “I know Lionel,” and to his surprise that statement rang true in his own head. “He'll come around.”

When her body relaxed, Celeste realized that all of her muscles had been tensed up while waiting for Gabe’s reaction. A smile graced her face before she had time to think about whether or not it was appropriate in this situation.

“Thank you, Gabriel.” Ok, there had still been a pause in the middle of his name when she said it but not as pronounced as before. “I really think that he’ll listen to you.” Now that that was solved, Celeste felt much better.

She got up out of the chair and said, “I’ll see you in the morning.” She picked up her briefcase and asked him, “Is there anything you’d like me to have ready for you in the morning?” When he looked at her quizzically, she explained, “Lionel usually has me work up something for him every morning…but he didn’t give me anything after this afternoon.”

Tilting her head to the side, “And it feels strange to have nothing to do tonight. Sort of pathetic, I know.” She shook her head at what it said about her that without a task to do she felt off balance.

Gabe chuckled, shaking his head. That woman apparently also had no life. He almost winced when he realized that was something they had in common. If it wasn't for Chloe's visits every once in a while or the bi-weekly poker evening with some of his friends, he'd be pretty much home alone at all times as well.

“Well then, give me the usual,” he answered with a shrug, having no idea what ever the hell 'the usual' was.

“Ok,” Celeste said, nodding. She put the strap of her briefcase over her shoulder and caught sight of Gabe’s desk, pulling a face when she noticed something. She reached over and turned on the small light that stood on his right. “Don’t want you to go blind.”

“Have a good night,” she threw over her shoulder as she walked towards the door. Gabe’s voice stopped her from leaving, though.

When she'd almost reached the door, Gabe had made a decision he couldn't quite fathom. She hadn't even given him the opportunity to say thank you after she'd turned the light on. He'd never noticed he'd been working half in the dark.

“Call me Gabe,” he said, then gave her a nod and found himself actually smiling, “I'll see you first thing tomorrow morning then I'll let you know how it went with Lionel.”

He still didn't know why he offered her that much, but after what he'd seen tonight, his opinion of her had changed a little for the better. Truth be told, he could see that she fought with calling him Gabriel every time she said his name. It was understandable. He wasn't that old yet and there were very few people who'd actually ever called him by his full name. Maybe it was because Gabe didn't have enemies per se and even those who weren't really friends were still always on friendly terms with him.

Celeste smiled at him again. This one even wider. “Thank you, you have no idea how hard it was to call you Gabriel,” she said, honestly. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” She slipped out of his office and continued to her car.

The daily report wouldn’t be too difficult to write. She’d site the usual progress that had been made and wouldn’t focus on the drawbacks too heavily. She knew that Lionel would eventually see the report once he was back to his old self. And, if he thought that she was being negative, he’d call her on it.

Hopefully, Gabe would be able to get the old Lionel to make an appearance in no time flat.

Addie

30th July 2005, 18:22

That was a great chaptever- even without the Chlex interactions, thank you so much for updating.

kimmie

30th July 2005, 20:23

That was another really excellent chapter, did kinda miss the chlex though, but I'm sure you'll make up for it in coming chapters, right?!

I loved the interaction between Lionel and Lex, it was nice to see Lionel trying to make amends even if Lex is suspicioud which he has every right to be after the way Lionel has treated him in the past, but its nice to see them getting along better.

Oh and I really loved the little flirty interaction between Gabe and Celeste, they're too cute!!!

Brilliant update and can't wait for the next one!!!

Kimmie

lexchloe

30th July 2005, 22:18

Awesome chapter. the Lionel/Lex stuff as usual was great. Felt kinda bad for Lionel though even if the situation with Lex is a mess of his own making. Nice to see Celeste and Gabe starting to get along and their possible sub-concious attraction to one another. Can't wait for the next one.

Nadia_

30th July 2005, 23:32

That was Great! I felt bad for Lionel when he realised that he was the one to blamed about Lex, and I find myself agreeing with Celeste it's so not right to see this worn out Lionel. I hope we can see the "force of nature" back next chapter.
And it was so cute the Gabe and Celeste interaction!

Can't wait for the next!

Louie

31st July 2005, 01:08

there was nothing Lionel could throw at him that he wouldn't be able to handle, somehow

Oh Lex you are soooo wrong, well I can't wait till the next date.

BellaMR

31st July 2005, 01:14

Thank you for updating this.
The Lex and Lionel interaction was so sad. Lionel has to come to terms with how he has damaged Lex before he can make amends. A hope a stronger relationship between thems evolves as Lex opens up more to Chloe.

I also loved Gabe and Celeste's interaction. Did I see a spark?

Can't wait for more.

pipersmum

31st July 2005, 01:17

Great an update and even though there was no interaction between Lex and Chloe it was still good :D
Can't wait for their second date hoping Lex picks some where really nice :grin3:

hfce

31st July 2005, 04:55

That was a great non-chlex update. I loved how Celeste and Gab finally made progress on their relationship. I can't wait to see the next chapter.

Hope :)

leik2

31st July 2005, 07:22

Gabe and Celeste are cute, at least they're both clueing into the same vibe.
Good job.

planetcal

31st July 2005, 08:56

I love the lex/Lionel interaction.
Are we seeing some sparks between Gabe and Celeste???
I hope Lex gets over his being a bachelor for the rest of his life and see what a great friend and future wife Chloe could be.

meg20

31st July 2005, 12:28

Thanks for the great update and I really love how you play Gabe and Celest - more love interests for us!
Actually I'm feelin g bad for Lionel, being honest dosent help mending things with Lex, he really has scrued up big time, but hope that everything goes better once the plan has succeeded and Chlex knows about their invovment!
Update soon please!!!

dreamerjules

31st July 2005, 15:18

Thank you for the up date. While I really liked the Gabe/Celeste scene, my favorite was Lionel/Lex. I really like that your Lionel has a heart and does really love Lex. It's buried really, really deep under several layers of rock, but still accessible.

Looking forward to the next update.

Julie

buddyfozzy

31st July 2005, 18:33

“What I’m aiming for,” Lionel said, wearily, “is for you to become the man your mother would have wanted, not the one I pushed on you.” The two wouldn’t have been all that dissimilar. Both driven and successful. However, the former would have been able to deal with relationships far better.

That was something that Lionel had never considered. He raised Lex to be cutthroat and didn’t think about how the consequences of that would play out in every other part of his son’s life.

He realized that Lex would just think he was playing him in some way. This was pointless. Lex was far too similar to his father to listen to him now. Hell, Lionel didn’t think that even he would listen to him at this point.

“I’m truly sorry for what I’ve done to you,” Lionel said, quietly. He never realized how freeing an apology could be. He nodded to himself and then cleared his throat, “I’m sure you want to get back to your office now.”

Wow, I feel kinda bad for Lionel. :( I can't decide whether I want him and Lex to patch up their relationship, or happy that he is getting what he deserves in Lex not trusting him even when he's trying to be sincere. I feel bad for Lex though too, I hope this doesn't mess with his head too much. :eek:

He looked a little different than he usually did. Tie loosened and jacket off, he looked younger and…..but she was going to stop her thought process right there. She didn’t mix business with pleasure and she was damn sure that Gabe wouldn’t want pleasure from her.

Gabe looked up from the contract he was going over to see Celeste standing in his doorway. Again, she was wearing a simple gear of nicely tailored pants and a loose blouse, her hair open instead of firmly tied back. Damn, if she wasn't such a hard assed bitch, she would actually be the type of woman...He stopped his thoughts right there. No use thinking about 'if's'

:rofl: This was cute.

Wonderful update, even without the Chlex. :nsparty:

star del mar

1st August 2005, 05:36

That was a great chapter, even without Chlex interaction, and definitely worth the wait. Even though Lex doesn't believe it...it was kind of nice to see Lionel vulnerable enough to open up a little. He can see some of the damage that he's done to Lex's psyche and he's taking the blame fully. But he can't get depressed! He needs to buck up and keep the plan going!

And Gabe and Celeste, too cute. I'm kind of keeping my fingers crossed and hoping they get together. I think they both need someone. Update again soon!

Steph*

SinnerSaint

1st August 2005, 08:42

Wonderful update ! Can't wait for more.

arkakitty

1st August 2005, 09:21

That was cute, how they struggle with their thought :) Loved it.

Kit Merlot

4th August 2005, 02:47

I adored this chapter. I love that Lionel realizes that Lillian would not have approved of how Lionel treated Lex after her death--very poignant.

I truly hope Lex and Lionel are able to form a better relationship--after Lex and Chloe fall madly in love with each other of course :D

And I do like the idea of Gabe and Celeste getting together.

So, great update!

BlueSabby

6th August 2005, 20:15

A/N:Sabby: Here goes, this might be a little complicated in terms of cutting, but you get the daddies and Chlex. So, be happy! and feedback!

A/N: Blue: More sorting out of Luthor and Sullivan feelings. Have fun!

It was eight thirty in the evening before Lex actually made it home. He'd barely settled down in front of the fireplace with a cup of coffee when he remembered what he'd promised when he'd hurriedly left Chloe at the restaurant.

Setting aside his cup, he grabbed for the phone, then remembered that he didn't know the number. Another five minutes later he'd found his cell phone and the number on it. He picked up the cordless again, dialed the number and got up to pace towards the veranda doors while he waited for her to answer the call.

After the rather straining conversation with his father, his mind had been running on overdrive trying to figure out whatever it was that Lionel wanted now. Then work had really set in and he'd forgotten all about his promise to call Chloe. Looking at his wrist watch, it was a little after quarter to nine, so she'd surely still be up

Chloe was toweling off her hair when she heard the sound of her phone. She looked around the chaos that was her bedroom. “Damn,” she murmured when she didn’t see the phone immediately. Then she remembered that she had left it in the living room.

Making sure her towel didn’t completely fall off her body, Chloe jogged out into the living room and picked up the phone triumphantly. “Hello?”

~*~*~*~*~

Gabe knocked on the milk glass doors of Lionel's office before he entered. The secretary had already been gone when he'd come up to the reception area, but that didn't mean anything. Lionel was somewhat of a mixture between a force of nature and a machine when it came to work, going so far as to stay over night if a deal demanded it.

Walking further into the extensive room, Gabe spotted the other man sitting in one of the comfortable leather chairs, a half empty bottle of scotch in front of him on the low glass table and a snifter in hand, staring off into the distance. Lionel looked like shit in a very expensive suit.

“Lionel,” he approached the man, trying to keep his voice low and even.

“Hello, Gabe,” Lionel said amicably. Now that he had accepted that he had effectively ruined his son’s life through his Art of War type instruction he was feeling much better. He thought that the Scotch might have something to do with it but couldn’t really be sure.

“Have a drink,” he said, pointing to the bottle. He had planned to drink the whole thing himself but that was before he knew that Gabe was still in the office. “Or four,” he added. He had lost count on what glass he was on.

When Gabe poured himself a drink Lionel asked, “What ever happened to the good old days of arranged marriages?” He sighed, deeply. Lionel noticed that his thoughts were jumping around a great deal but couldn’t curtail it from happening.

Gabe settled down on the seat adjacent to Lionel and decided just to wing it from here on out. Pre-arranged speeches never worked when dealing with Luthors anyway.

“I think they died out around the time of industrialization, when heritage lost its importance when it came to being successful in the business world,” he commented. “People started marrying out of love instead of obligation or the need for a certain title.”

He knew that wasn't what Lionel had been aiming for and he could even sympathize with the thought but it wouldn't get them anywhere. Essentially though, it was what they were doing. They just used a 21st century way to get there, which was a bit more complicated than simply ordering their children to get married.

Gabe chuckled, “Can you imagine the looks on our children's faces, if we ordered them to get married?”

~*~*~*~*~

Lex was opening the sliding glass door towards his backyard when Chloe finally picked up the phone. Lex wondered what had taken her so long.

“Hey, it's Lex,” he started and then found himself at a lack of just what to say. “I hope I didn't catch a bad moment,” he wagered.

The only reason that would keep him from answering on the second ring was if he was in the middle of sex, in which case he didn't bother answering at all, or back in the Smallville days, if he was strung up, tied down and thrashed around in a way that had nothing to do with sex at all, in which case he mostly didn't answer the phone either.

“No, I was just getting out of the shower and then had some difficulty actually locating the phone,” Chloe explained. She looked around the room and realized that it desperately needed a good cleaning. She usually didn’t let it get so bad but she had been busy recently.

“It’s not a bad time,” she added. She looked over at one of the numerous clocks in her apartment and asked, “Are you just getting home?” Chloe knew that men in business worked long and hard hours but this was ridiculous. Lex would put himself in his grave before forty if he kept doing that.

Looking out over his backyard, Lex smiled at the image that flashed through his mind at Chloe's explanation.

“Yeah, about,” he trailed off for a moment as he glanced at his watch again, “Twenty minutes ago or so, got stuck in traffic.”

Sometimes he wished he hadn't bothered to buy a house out in the suburbs, but he knew that it had been one of the best decisions he could have made. It was out of eye and earshot of nosy paparazzi, nobody knew exactly where he lived and only the last 3 of his endeavors at romance had known about it. For some reason, neither of them had breathed a word to the press.

“I take it you've been home for a while?”

~*~*~*~*~

“I’d think that the blunt objects flying our way would be the problem, not the looks on their faces,” Lionel commented. Though, he did wager that the expressions both he and Gabe would receive from such an idea would be priceless.

“It’s unfortunate that such a profitable occurrence such as industrialization had such a fallout, though.” If both he and Gabe had lived in the preceding centuries, Chloe and Lex would have already been settled down with each other.

He settled further back in his chair and asked, “Do you think Chloe would hate you if she knew what we were doing?” It was difficult for things between himself and Lex to get any worse. But he was interested to see how Gabe thought his daughter would react to such news.

“No,” he answered without even having to think about it.

Gabe was sure that there was nothing that could ever make his daughter hate him, no matter what. Because no matter what it was, she would know that he did it out of love and with the best intentions for her.

“Sure, she'll rant and rave at me and possibly not talk to me for weeks,” he continued, looking more into the distance than towards Lionel, “But she wouldn't really hate me.” He turned his focus back to the man in front of him. “I believe that it takes a lot more than misunderstood intentions, or wrong judgments to make a child hate the father.”

Gabe wasn't stupid. He knew that this wasn't about the relationship between Chloe and Lex anymore, this was about the relationship between Lionel and his son. Whatever had happened this afternoon between the other man and Lex had been an eye opener and definitely not in a good way.

~*~*~*~*~
Chloe made a noncommittal sound. She had actually been in the stack of the Metropolis library doing some research for the newest piece she was assigned to. It was as dry as the last few but higher up on the rung than the society stuff. It seemed as if Patterson was finally cooling off from thinking that she and Lex were a couple.

So, why was she continuing to see Lex if it was possibly jeopardizing her job? She wouldn’t think about that now, though. “Actually, I got home only a little before you. But, I had to wash off the age old dust that you only find in the tomes that are housed in the basement of the library.”

Chloe wandered back into her room and flopped down on the bed. Her towel pulled uncomfortably on her so she pulled it off of her body. It wasn’t like Lex could tell she was naked.

She noted that Lex mentioned getting stuck in traffic and wondered how far out of Metropolis he lived. “I hope I didn’t make you too late for whatever it was you had this afternoon.” Chloe was fairly certain that it was a business meeting but didn’t want to pry too much.

Lex smirked venturing back into the house and making his way to the kitchen. “I'm sorry about that, I'd forgotten about a meeting and when I realized that it was an hour into it.”

Usually, he'd leave it at that, because it wasn't of importance what happened after, he'd made his apologies and that was that. Inexplicably, he continued on. “When I finally got back to the Towers it turned out that my father had cancelled the meeting for some reason or other without letting me know and I broke every street limit between the restaurant and there for nothing.”

It was incredible, if his father had bothered to let him know, he could've spent more time with Chloe. They'd gotten more comfortable and despite the discussion they'd had it hadn't turned into an all out fight. At least he'd managed to get the promise of another get together out of her.

Chloe's other comment came back to him and he arched his brows curiously as he grabbed for a bottle of water from the fridge. “What were you doing in the basement of the library?”

~*~*~*~*~

Lionel nodded slowly. What Gabe said made sense. He and Chloe had an actual loving relationship. He knew that the young woman would have a meltdown of epic proportions if she even thought that her father had a hand in determining her future. But Lionel also knew that Chloe loved her father too much to cut him out of her life forever.

“Must be nice to know that,” Lionel said. He took another swig of his drink and figured he would cut to the chase. Even though he was approaching drunk, he could see that Gabe was watching him closely. The other man had not come into his office merely to chat.

“I realized for the first time today that Lex truly hates me and that it is my own doing.” He looked over at Gabe and took in his slightly shocked appearance. He supposed that the other man did not expect such a blunt statement.

“I’ve pissed away any chance that I have for a relationship with him and he will most likely dance on my grave when I die.” He put his glass down and said, “What’s more, I won’t blame him for doing so. I’ve disgraced his mother, I’ve disgraced myself and I’ve made my son such an emotional cripple that he can’t see someone as wonderful as Chloe when he’s staring straight at her. Literally.”

It felt better to have it out in the open. It got rid of some of the queasiness that Lionel felt in the pit of his stomach. He knew that he would have one hell of a hangover the next day but he did not want to get sick. Maybe confessing would stave that off.

“And all of this in the name of making him the best man he could be.” Lionel picked up his glass and said, “Cheers,” before downing what was left of the liquid.

Gabe didn't know what to say. It took all of his will power to not let his jaw drop at the moment, so he took a healthy swig of his drink and contemplated silently. That was one hell of a bombshell to drop in someone's lap and Lionel had done it in such a blunt and monotonous way that it had sent Gabe reeling.

It was true that Lionel and Lex had never had the best of father son relationships. He came back to the assessment that they were so similar, yet on completely different ends of the scale. But Gabe had never thought that Lex might actually hate Lionel. Even when he didn't want to, Lex respected his father and if he wanted to admit it or not, the strength that Lex possessed was greatly due to Lionel's upbringing. It took a hell of a lot to bring Lex Luthor down, and not many people where stupid enough to even try.

Lionel seemed convinced though, that Lex hated him. Maybe Lex had said as much in their meeting this afternoon, but Gabe couldn't believe he'd mean it. Children could say the worst things when they were lashing out with the intention to hurt back where they had been hurt first.

“I don't think he hates you, Lionel,” he stated slowly. “I won't deny that he might resent things you did or said, but he doesn't hate you.”

This was dangerous territory to tread. At the end of the day, Lionel was still his boss and could fire him, or worse, for what he was about to say. However, Gabe was a Sullivan and Sullivans always spoke their mind when something needed to be addressed.

“You hurt him a lot with the way you acted, you tried to turn him into something of your shape, but Lex was never meant to be like you. He's his own person and some of the things you pushed him to be just aren't what he wants or needs. He needed a father and what you gave him was a mentor. You've made yourself his opponent to train him. Now he's scared to let himself believe you could be anything else.”

Having said his piece, he couldn't help but feel sympathy for the man in front of him and tried to find the right words to make Lionel understand that this was not something that couldn't be changed.

“It's going to take more than words to make him believe, but I don't doubt that he will if you give him reason. Giving up is the worst thing you can do right now. You've made him a strong man, you made him build the defenses, so you have to be the one to help take them down.”

~*~*~*~*~
“Research,” Chloe grumbled. The worst part was that you couldn’t eat in a library. She usually didn’t follow such silly rules but this time had been different. She was surrounded by books that were worth more than her life. Plus, she would have felt guilty forever had she messed up one of the books.

She rose off of the bed and contemplated what she wanted to wear. She still had to run out and get something to eat before going to sleep. “I’m doing a piece on the five most influential architects of Metropolis,” she explained as she opened one of her drawers.

“It’s very interesting and the pictures are quite nice to look at but spending hours hunched over and starving in a basement while I have an allergy attack,” she shrugged one shoulder, “not the best way to spend an evening.”

Lex took a draught from the bottle, listening to Chloe as he made his way back to the veranda and out into the backyard. “I can imagine,” he answered dryly.

Settling down in one of the comfortable rattan chairs he looked up at the night sky. Out here, you could actually see the constellations when they came out at night. “I think at LuthorCorp there's still material archived about the architect of the towers and what he did before, if you're interested.”

He closed his eyes and listened to the silence going on around him. That was another nice thing about the outskirts of town. There were no crickets or anything like that, but only the occasional car driving by and the wail of sirens was usually so far in the distance that it blended completely in the background. And of course that annoying bird that lived in one of the trees near by that made a really ridiculous noise. Like it did just now. One of those days he was going to find it and have it disappeared.

~*~*~*~*~
Everything that Gabe said made logical sense. However, it made little difference to what Lionel thought. Gabe was outside of the relationship and didn’t know how much had passed between Lionel and his son. There were too many transgressions to think that Lionel would ever be able to get Lex to have a healthy relationship with.

“What you’re saying makes sense, Gabe. And, I thank you for what you’ve said.” He paused, unsure as how to continue. Lionel wasn’t used to actually talking about anything of content with anyone. “But, I do also believe that it’s too late for me to try and be his father. I said a few honest things to Lex tonight and he wanted to know what kind of game I was playing.”

Lionel stood up and the world tilted a little bit. He steadied himself and said, “I can try to foster a relationship with him but, at this point, everything that I do will be second guessed by him. He will never believe that any overtures I make towards him will be honest.”

He looked out the window and added, “And I can’t blame him.”

Gabe shook his head, set his glass down and got up as well. “And that's enough to stop you? Then you're not the man I thought you to be.”

Crossing his arms in front of his chest, he regarded Lionel's slumped shoulders and generally defeated stance. “Of course he didn't believe you were honest, it was the first time in years that you were being honest with him and you've used the emotional angle before to get to him. You can't just throw your hands up and give in when he doesn't automatically respond to it.”

Turning his face away from Lionel's back he let his eyes wander across the room until they fell on a picture sitting in a bookshelf on the opposite wall. It had to be Lillian, the facial features were so remarkably similar to Lex's that it was uncanny and she had the same eyes as her son. Gabe could imagine how it had been to look at your child and always be reminded of the person who left you. More than that, he could relate. But in the end, no matter how similar in attitude or looks, the kids were their own personas.

“He's not Lillian. You lost her because you couldn't make amends. You don't have to lose him just because it's still hard to make them this time.”

~*~*~*~*~
Chloe took the phone away from her ear for a second when she heard a squawking bird. “Are you calling me from a zoo, Lex,” she laughed. She didn’t think that it was very likely but that damn bird was so loud that she had to comment on it in some way.

She pulled a pair of sweatpants out of the drawer and put them on while cradling the phone between her shoulder and cheek. Of course, the phone dropped and she quickly picked it up from the bed. “I hope you didn’t just say anything important, I dropped the phone.”

The distinct sound of Lex chuckling at her came through her earpiece. “I’m glad you find me amusing,” she commented. She thought about his offer and decided that she’d have to take him up on it. There was scant information on Victor DeHaven in the library. It now made sense. The Luthors had probably hoarded all of the good books and stashed them in the catacombs that made up the basement area of the Tower.

“Thanks for the offer, Lex. Who do I contact about seeing the books?” She didn’t want to bother him any more than was necessary and was sure that there had to be some underling in charge of the precious books.

Lex was just about to take another drink from his bottle when she'd asked the question and shook his head at the same time as he swallowed. “I'm afraid you won't get at them on your own, but I can have them brought up to my office and you can come pick them up when you have time,” he said.

Then a thought occurred to him. “Or I could just bring them along the next time we go out. And remember, I'm choosing the restaurant this time.”

The fact that she needed the books would only mean they could get together soon again. Lex had really enjoyed their date and it seemed there wasn't so little a chance that they could actually become friends. If the fighting didn't make a reappearance.

~*~*~*~*~
Lionel chuckled at Gabe’s words. Even he was surprised at his reaction. It didn’t really fit. But, it was amusing to him to see Gabe try and use his own personality against him. It went to show how much the other man knew him. “Throwing down the gauntlet are we, Gabe?”

Exhaustion was beginning to overtake Lionel and this conversation wasn’t helping. “I suppose that I should be proud that Lex doesn’t just take me at face value. It means that I taught him well.” He walked over to the book shelf and picked up the picture of Lillian. “Though, I think that she would disagree.”

He carefully placed the picture back in its spot and turned towards Gabe. “Fine, in the morning I will begin to tirelessly hound my son into loving me all the while trying to get him a bride behind his back. Does that meet with your approval?”

Gabe smirked and shook his head in exasperation. “It would if you toned down the sarcasm, but I'll take what I can get,” he shrugged.

Deciding that it was time to leave the man be for the night, Gabe made his way back to the office doors to leave. However when he had one hand already on the door handle, he couldn't resist to turn around for a last parting shot.

“You'll see, everything will work out. I'm right. Because a Sullivan is always right,” he nodded and left the office, feeling a lot better for having said his piece and knocked some sense into Lionel Luthor.

~*~*~*~*~
“Whatever works for you, I don’t want to be too big of a nuisance.” She paused and then said, while smiling, “Well, anymore of one that I’ve already been what with the getting your face plastered all over the newspaper.” Though, he had helped in that situation. But she wouldn’t bring that up now.

“Are they allowed to leave the premises?” Chloe took a shirt out of her closet and put it on, maneuvering it over the phone. Her voice still became muffled but she continued to speak. “I don’t know if you want to take the chance of them getting messed up. I could stop by the office first and then we could go out to the non-octopus serving restaurant.”

She ran a hand through her hair and then flopped back down onto the bed, letting out an appreciative sound. Going out was not looking like the best idea right now.

“I hardly think they would go through my briefcase, but if you want,” he said, shrugging a shoulder.

Taking another swig from the bottle he looked up at the sky while going through his schedule. “I'm not going in tomorrow, so I can ask for them on Monday, they should be there by Wednesday, is that enough time or do you need them earlier?”

The people down at the archives liked taking their time about getting things out of the catacombs. If Chloe needed it earlier, he'd have to go down there personally.

“Wednesday sounds great,” Chloe said. She would flesh out the information on the rest of her subjects before first and then be able to drop in the stuff about DeHaven. Plus, she was fairly certain that she would have some information that no one else had ever dug up. She was now officially excited about her story.

And, about other things. “And, I don’t suppose you’ll give me a hint as to what type of place you’ll be whisking me away to.” Chloe leaned over and turned off the light on her bedside table. Maybe after she got off the phone with Lex she’d rest her eyes before going out to forage for food.

Lex chuckled, knowing it would drive Chloe just a tad bit crazy if she didn't know what to expect. “I'd rather keep it a surprise,” he answered, “I'm sure you'll dress nicely any way, so you don't really need a clue for that.”

He already had a certain place in mind and he was sure Chloe would like it. They didn't serve seafood, so that was a plus. Glancing at his watch, he noticed they'd been talking for almost a half hour. “So I'll expect you Wednesday. If you want to copy the files you can do it in my office, but I don't think it's going to be a problem to take them with you as long as you return them within a few days.”

“Didn’t think I’d be able to weasel the name out of you but you can’t fault a girl for trying,” Chloe commented. But, she liked that Lex always kept things interesting between them. It was nice to see that he didn’t just roll over and give her what she wanted.

“And, as long as it’s not a problem for me to keep them, that would be great.” It would give her a chance to be as thorough as she needed and photocopies of the pictures may not be as detailed as she needed.

Chloe looked towards the living room and noticed that she had left the lights on. That meant she’d have to get up in order to turn them off. She had given up on the idea of food. Sleep sounded better. Even if it was dreadfully early and she was turning into an old person already, she didn’t care.

She got up out of her bed and went to the living room. “I really appreciate it, Lex,” she said honestly. “I think that I’ll have some material that is new about DeHaven that’ll make the piece that much more interesting. Thank you.”

Knowing that Lex would probably not deal with genuine gratitude all that well, she said, “What time is good for you?” Her day was pretty wide open but if she had something that conflicted with when she was supposed to meet with Lex….well, that was just too damn bad. She could at least rationalize her decision because she was getting work material out of there….whatever it was.

Finishing his bottle off, Lex got up from his chair and went back inside the house, closing the veranda door behind him.

“It'll probably be better if you come some time afternoon. I'm usually busy with meetings 'til lunch time.”

Lex didn't know his schedule by heart, but there was a constant pattern one could rely on. No time to breathe until lunch, breathe, have a snack, dive right back into the paperwork part until things slowed down a little somewhere around 4 pm. Well next Wednesday he'd just have to make a few changes.

“After lunch, you can stop by whenever it suits you,” he shrugged, dumping the empty bottle in the small glass container next to the trash. Lex Luthor did recycling. He wondered what that would do to his image as the spawn of evil if the press found out and grinned to himself.

Finally the lights were all off and Chloe crawled back into the bed with the phone. Sure, it would die during the night without being charged but she wasn’t expecting any calls. “Ok, I’ll call your office before I come over just to make sure that you’re free.” She tried to stifle her yawn but failed. “God, I’m sorry.”

While she was sure that Lex knew her life wasn’t a constant rave, there was something sad about the fact that she was passing out at this hour.

Her yawn had been infectious, so Lex had to stifle one of his own before he could answer. “Nothing to be sorry for,” he answered. “I'll let you get some sleep. See you Wednesday then, Chloe.”

He heard her answer muffled by another yawn and said a short 'Bye' before hanging up. Lex knew better than anyone how tiring it could be to be buried in paperwork of any kind for hours on end. Walking back into the living room, he put the cordless back in its station before getting comfortable on the couch. His arm reached to grab the remote from its usual space and flicked on the TV. He'd watch some trite movie, then go to bed himself, or fall asleep on the couch, whatever happened first.

hfce

6th August 2005, 23:08

Bravo that was a great update. :clapclap: I love how the two fathers talked to eachother like old friends. They will make interesting grandparents competing for the kids attention. :rofl: It was nice of Gab to try to talk some sense into Lionel. But lionel is right he has his worked cut out for him to get Lex to trust him.

I so loved the Chlexed interaction. It was so easy and fluid. I love how they are slowly falling for eachother. :D

Hope :)

kimmie

6th August 2005, 23:26

I loved that update, just like I love every update from you guys!!! Will flattery get me another update any sooner????!!!!

I really loved how Lex and Chloe found it so easy just to talk to each other, their wasn't anything forced and conversation just seemed to flow between them. i'm really looking forward to their next date...

Also loved Gabe talking some sense into Lionel and making him realise that in order to get Lex to trust him again he'll have to work at it and that he shouldn't give up on their relationship.

Update again soon...

Kimmie

darkangel

7th August 2005, 05:30

This story is very good. I sort of feel sorry for Lionel even though it is his fault that his son is an emotional cripple. I am glad that Chloe ans Lex's relationship is developing quite nicely.

leik2

7th August 2005, 06:44

Great update. Really enjoying this fic.

SinnerSaint

7th August 2005, 07:24

That whole chapter just flowed very nicely. The conversation was very natural and I enjoed Lex's little internal comments to himself. I also got a kick out of Gabe giving Lionel a swift kick to get him to stop feeling so sorry for himself.

star del mar

7th August 2005, 07:46

Wow. They're all being so honest, it's refreshing. I think that both conversations were very enlightening. Chloe and Lex are comfortable enough with each other to be able to talk on the phone casually without having to sit there and think of what to say next, I love that! And Gabe is being insightful as usual. I know Lionel can be a pain in the ass but I actually feel kind of bad for him. This was a great chapter, update again soon!

Steph*

arkakitty

7th August 2005, 13:37

They are so cute, talking n the phone till falling asleep. I love how you put the Gabe/Lionel dialogue in between. More soon please?

meg20

7th August 2005, 15:56

Loved this update!
I'm glad that Gabe tried to help Lionel understand some things and Lionel is back in the game.
The phone conversation was also fantastic and this time there was nothing interfering them, glad that Lex remembered his promise and now they have to meet more times than just the restaurant!
Update soon please!!!!!!!!!

Louie

7th August 2005, 19:22

I love that you made Lex recycle, he's doing his part to save the world ;)
Everyone's ease of conversation was nice it's great to see that they all trust each other.

And I can't wait to see the new 'I truly love you Lex' Lionel

campbti

8th August 2005, 16:34

Great update, I love how comfortable they are getting with one another and how they are deciding they can make little adjustments to their lives in order to make tiem for one another. Great update as always. Can't wait for more development.

Kit Merlot

9th August 2005, 02:20

This was an awesome update! I loved the Chlex phone call conversation, but the best part was Gabe's advice to Lionel.

Excellent :D

Gemkat5

12th August 2005, 02:15

Hey Ladies! Sorry I'm behind on my FB, but new job and all that.... anyway, got all caught up and I love the continual interaction with all parties. Gabe's advice to Lionel was so dead on it was scary-and lionel accepting it in his own fashion is good. I like how the two dads are forming a friendship and how lionel can open up to Gabe, probably never done that with anyone (cept maybe Lillian) in his life!

And the way Lex and Chloe are slowly being drawn to each other is beautiful. they both like spending time and talking with the other, while both are grateful that each conversation and meeting ends well! LOL!

can't wait to see Lionel and Gabe's reactions when they get their hands on "that" conversation! :D i also seriously hope that Lionel doesn't fuck everything up too much by being honest with Lex...that's just-- scary!

Love and Praise to you both!

asharnanae

12th August 2005, 05:08

damn it all, you guys are just killing me with the greatness!!!

It just continues to be FANTASTIC!!!!

so more of your fantasticness please!

BlueSabby

14th August 2005, 18:49

A/N: Sabby: Here we go my fiends, the second date... I could tell you that it's going to be perfect, but that would be lying *G* Enjoy.

A/N: Blue: Another date...another 'interesting' ending to the date. Sort of. You'll see. *g*

As she walked through the offices of LuthorCorp, Chloe cursed her choice in attire. She had been bleary eyed when she got up this morning…and late. She had grabbed the first spring dress that she had had dry cleaned the week before, thrown it on and run out the door.

She had put herself together at work and thought she had actually looked pretty damn good. Then she noticed the color that she was wearing. Fucking purple. She looked like one of the official members of the Lex cheerleading squad.

Briefly, she had held onto the hope that she would be able to change before going out with Lex. But, her day had been nuts and she had barely had a chance to pee, so it would have been impossible to go all the way across town back to her place to make herself more presentable.

Chloe felt silly and foolish and altogether too damn girly as she passed her father’s office. She hadn’t told him that she was meeting Lex, she liked to surprise her father with trips to his place of business. He told her it brightened his day and she knew that she got her love of unexpected visits from those she cared about from him.

Peeking in, she noticed that he wasn’t there. His secretary showed up and informed her that he had a meeting. ‘Oh, well, maybe next time,’ she thought to herself.

Humming a little, she continued down the hall to Lex’s office. Over the phone, he had informed her that 2pm would work fine with him. She could tell that he was in with someone by the crisp way he spoke. Chloe had checked the urge to salute the phone once it was back in its cradle.

She heard the ding of the elevator and saw Lionel Luthor step off of it. When he saw her, he slowed down his gait and waited for her to catch up with him. The man really was changing in his old age. That thought struck her when he smiled at her. Nothing too out of control but she definitely saw more teeth on him than she ever had. Which, she noticed, was a shame. He wasn’t bad looking…..and she couldn’t believe that she had just thought that.

“Chloe, it’s very nice to see you.” Well, this certainly was odd timing. Lionel knew that Lex and Chloe were to meet today and Celeste had been able to figure out that it was around two, but he had had no intention of running into Gabe’s daughter.

His partner in crime had told him that his behavior towards Chloe the last time she had visited was over the top and would only make the girl suspicious. He would try to be less….nice this time but it was difficult.

Especially once he imagined his son and her bickering over the breakfast table. Which was ludicrous because Lex didn’t eat breakfast but that didn’t matter right now.

“Your father, unfortunately, is in a meeting. I can show you to the lounge if you’d like to wait for him there.” Lionel wondered if Chloe would tell him that she was here to see Lex. He thought not and was eager to see what type of lie the woman would lay on him.

“Hello…” Chloe paused. She remembered that she was supposed to call him Lionel and it would be rude to knowingly disobey his cordial gesture. However, he had screwed with Lex more times than she could count. On the other hand, he was her dad’s boss. But, if you looked at it from another perspective, he just might be the devil. But, her dad did like him so that had to count for something. Chloe had to bite down on her lip to stifle the laughter that was bubbling up inside.

For a moment she had imagined Vishu with all of her hands as she thought of the numerous sides to what was going on.

“Lionel,” she settled on. Hell, they were both adults and she didn’t work for him, so she figured it was the best decision. “And, I know, his secretary told me. But, I wasn’t actually here to see him.” Now, here was the problem.

When the whole story about her and Lex had broken, she had no idea as to how Lionel had taken it. So, she didn’t know if saying that she was here to see Lex would make him mad. But, that wasn’t her biggest concern.

She didn’t know if Lex cared if his father knew that they were going out to lunch. For the second time. In less than a week. But, then she remembered that she did actually have a valid reason for being at LuthorCorp.

Lionel could almost see the wheels in her head spinning as she came up with a plausible lie. His grandchildren were going to be damn geniuses. Maybe little Hannah would go into politics like her father. Lionel was pretty sure that Lex had political aspirations. And, for that, he would need the right wife. Yes, things were going to work out just right.

“I’ve arranged to look at some of the books that LuthorCorp has in its impressive archive.” Chloe had done some research online and found out that there was a treasure trove of stuff located down in the basement. When she read over what was allegedly housed in the building it made her want to break in after hours just to hold the first edition copies of some of her favorite books that were purported to be in the lower level.

“Ahh..,” Lionel said, “For a story that you’re working on, I assume.” He slowly started walking and was curious to see if Chloe would follow him. He was actually walking away from Lex’s office but wanted to see if Chloe found his company pleasant enough for a small amount of time.

When Lionel started walking, Chloe knew that she could easily excuse herself. But, being that he was walking in the opposite direction of Lex’s office, she followed. At least he wouldn’t see her going in.

“Yes,” she answered. “On the five most influential architects of Metropolis.” She knew that Lionel had picked DeHaven out of total obscurity to build the Tower. That was why no one knew a damn thing about the man. He had worked in secrecy and not done any press at all. After the Towers, there were other buildings that were publicly acknowledged to have been designed by DeHaven, but none since.

She figured that she could maybe get some additional information out of Lionel that the books didn’t possess. “What was he like….or,” Chloe paused, “is he like?” There had been various reports that DeHaven had died. Then, there were reports that it was all a hoax. People in Metropolis were fickle so the story died down relatively quickly with no one ever sorting out whether the man was alive or dead.

Lionel chucked at the way that her mind worked. She was always hot on the trail of the story. If only she knew just how interesting this one was, it might just kill her.

“I assure you that Mr. DeHaven is very much alive, Chloe. And, you can quote me as a high ranking LuthorCorp official in your story when you relay that message to your readers.” There wasn’t any harm in helping Chloe with her story.

Especially once she smiled warmly up at him. The girl was the picture of the word charming. How Lex could look at her and not want to settle down with her was beyond Lionel. His son really was a dense man.

After Lionel had awoken with a horrible hangover, he had reevaluated what was going on. Gabe had been right, their plan would not fail. And, he would work things out with Lex. He was certain of all of these things. The realization had energized him so much that he could tell his secretary was quite worried about his mental well being.

He allowed himself that one mental setback, but from now on he would not doubt the outcome of their plan. Lex and Chloe would be together. End of story.

“Thank you, Lionel.” The quote was, in and of itself, a reporting coup. No one ever got a comment from LuthorCorp that didn’t serve the company’s own needs. This was turning out to be a damn fine day indeed.
“That’s extremely generous of you.” It was a shame that the man could be like this with her, a near stranger, but couldn’t be kinder to his son.

Chloe looked at her watch. “I’m sorry, Lionel. I have to…”

He waved off her apology. “Of course, I didn’t mean to keep you. Happy digging.” He gave her a last grin at the thought of her pouring over the records of DeHaven. He knew that she would find inconsistencies that no one else had. That it would become an obsession with her. Lionel did not giggle. He never had. But, he came dangerously close.

Lionel nodded once and then rounded the corner. He did give in to the urge to peek back and see Chloe turn around and go back in the direction that they had come. Now, he wondered if she would tell Lex about their meeting. If only he hadn’t had those damn bugs taken out of the office.

~~~~
Chloe made her way back to Lex’s office but took a few turns that would take her the long way there. She realized that she was making sure that she wasn’t being followed and actually rolled her eyes at her own stupidity.

She smiled over at Lex’s secretary and said, “I have an appointment with Mr. Luthor for two.” She saw the woman’s brow furrow and then look over his appointment book. Lex clearly had not informed his secretary of the meeting. Chloe hid a smile by turning away from the woman and pretending to look at the artwork on the wall.

“I’m sorry, Ms….” The woman paused and looked at her. After a few seconds she said, “Sullivan, I have to check with him. Your meeting is not reflected on my schedule.”

Chloe was impressed that the woman remembered her name from their past meeting. But, she wasn’t really surprised. She knew that Lex would expect as much from the woman that was his right hand in some cases.

The secretary….Ella! Ella was her name, god that had been driving Chloe nuts. Ella buzzed Lex and as Chloe started to sit down, Ella told her that she could go right on in. There was a horrible moment where Chloe had to pinwheel her arms in order to not fall back into the couch.

Sighing, wondering if she was ever going to cease to make an ass out of herself in public, Chloe opened Lex’s door. He was scribbling something on one of the numerous papers that were festooned on his desk. She breathed a sigh of relief when she noticed that he wasn’t wearing any purple. At least they wouldn’t match like a bunch of freaks.

Lex looked up from his paperwork after a moment to great Chloe properly, however what he'd meant to say died in his throat when he saw what she was wearing. There seemed to be a common misconception regarding his favorite color and Lex wondered if she'd fallen prey to that misconception and if that was the case, if she'd chosen the color for a reason.

“Nice dress,” he commented with a smirk, closing the papers on his desk and getting up from his chair.

Chloe groaned rather audibly. “You couldn’t have just let it go?” When his smirk widened at her tone of voice she added, “You’re infuriating, you know that, right?” His damn smirk grew even bigger.

But, she knew that would happen, which is why she did it. Chloe really liked this side of Lex and thought that if he actually smiled every now and again…well, there’d be a whole lot more bimbos lined up to go out with him.

Lex rounded his desk and there was an awkward moment where neither of them knew how to properly greet one another. A handshake would have been too impersonal but a hug was far to much contact to try and push on Lex. Chloe rose up on her toes and gave him a quick peck on the cheek. That seemed somehow better than the other two options.

It had taken him longer to actually notice what had happened than her action itself. He suppressed the amusement he felt as she'd already pulled back and was looking at him again. Again and again, Chloe amazed him by just slipping past his personal space barrier without even thinking about it. What was even more amazing was that every time she did it, he let her.

She was happy to see that Lex wasn’t looking at her strangely when she peered back up at him and so she said, “Any chance I can get a sneak peek at the books before we go to lunch at the secret location?”

Lex smirked back at her turning around to get the files from his desk.

“Sure, if you want to, I have something to finish here anyway, shouldn't take too long,” he said as he handed her a thick packet folder.

He did have a few contracts on his desk that should be finished before they went anywhere, so it was a good thing Chloe's curiosity was as it was.

Chloe smiled at her good fortune. Lex settled down at his desk and slid the books over to her. However, the information in them was not as detailed as she had hoped. A frown settled on her face.

It was more than she had ever read in the past, but she was still hoping for more. Plus, there were only two books. One of them was filled with lithographs of the artwork and the other was actual biographical information about the man himself. There was also one interview with the man. That would be helpful but the feeling of disappointment was still present.

That changed slightly when she opened the other books. There were numerous drawings of the buildings that lined the streets of Metropolis. In addition to that, there were other buildings that Chloe had never seen. She’d have to search and see if they actually existed or if they were just ideas that had never come to fruition.

Lex finished up his work and closed the folder. Shutting down his laptop he got up from his chair, folder in hand, to see Chloe still immersed in the books he'd managed to provide.

“Ok, I'm done here.” Stopping beside her, he motioned for the books she was going through. “Do you think this will help you with your article?”

“I think so,” Chloe said, slowly. There were a ton of new little facts about the man but she still couldn’t piece together a cohesive narrative of his life. There didn’t seem to be much on his early years and his life seemed to have stopped entirely after he built the building that she was currently in.

It was strange. Not meteor rock strange, but strange none the less. She closed the book and then handed them both over to Lex. He slipped them into his briefcase and she stood up. “Though, I have the feeling that the piece may be slightly different from what Patterson expects.” Or, if she couldn’t change the angle of the article, she’d have to get him to let her write one specifically on the mystery of where DeHaven had disappeared to.

As they walked out of his office, Chloe put the architect out of her mind. She might be taken with the strangeness of the case but she didn’t want it to detract from the strangeness of going out with Lex again.

~~~~
The restaurant that Lex had chosen wasn’t too far from his office and they chatted about her article on the way to it. She took in the tasteful décor and the friendly servers and was glad to see that she wouldn’t feel out of place.

She didn’t think that Lex always dined at the most expensive and snobby five star restaurants, so it was nice to have her theory confirmed. He seemed to be known there. Many people nodded at him as they made their way to the table. However, she doubted that he enjoyed the same familiarity with the owner as she did with Paul. That was a good thing, though.

Once they were settled, Chloe decided to ignore the too long looks that she was drawing from the other people in the room. Actually, other women in the room. They were probably judging her and not finding that she met the standards they assumed Lex would have.

Lex cast a glance around the room, noticing the looks from the female clientele but ignoring them for the most part. It wasn't unusual that which ever woman happened to end up in his company would be on the receiving end of spiteful looks.

Looking back at Chloe, he tried to gauge her reaction to being in this situation. So far she seemed to be dealing pretty well, ignoring the looks and murmurs from various ends of the restaurant.

“I hope you will like the menu, I promise you won't find anything on it that's anywhere near alive,” he said, just as the waiter arrived with aforementioned menus in hand.

Turning around to the young man, Lex looked up to order a glass of Zinfandel for himself and a dry martini for Chloe.

When his gaze went back to hers, he waited to see how she would deal with him ordering the aperitif for her. It had been more reflex than anything and he'd remembered too late that there was the possibility she might feel offended for some feminist reason or another.

Chloe could see that Lex was waiting for her to show some Steinum induced fit, but it wasn’t going to happen. Especially after their first meeting when she had made a fool out of herself for assuming that that was why he didn’t finish her off. She knew that Lex was raised in a gentlemanly fashion and would only think it polite to order a drink that he knew she wanted.

Besides, Chloe did think that there was something to be said about a man doing things he was supposed to for a woman. Lex knew that she was her own person and that she could take care of herself so there was no reason to beat him over the head with that fact.

“Good,” Chloe said, commenting on his earlier words. “I like my food good and dead. It takes far too much energy to chase it around just so you can eat it. Plus, I’m wearing the wrong shoes for such a task.” The severe heels were the only shoes that were appropriate to go along with her dumb dress.

Lex chuckled and cast a glance around the table to take a look at the shoes. When he looked back up, he grinned at Chloe and gave a nonchalant shrug.

“I don't know, they look like they're perfectly fit to spear any potential prey should it try to get off your plate.”

The mental image came before he could stop it and he had to bite the inside of his cheek to stop from laughing. He wondered what the maitre'd would say if he found the vivacious blonde with her high heeled pump fishing around the salad trying to kill a shrimp that looked like it might have moved.

“Yes, that’s true,” Chloe admitted. “But only if said prey sat still. I don’t know how fast or far I could run in them.” They were totally impractical but they gave her some much needed height so she had bought them.

“It won’t come to that though,” Chloe said as she looked around the restaurant. “It doesn’t appear that anyone else has anything that needs killing on their plate so I’m quite convinced that whatever you pick out will be edible as soon at it arrives at the table.”

Lex had not really heard the last part of her statement. He'd gotten distracted by a familiar face that he could see past Chloe's shoulder and a little to her left at one of the other tables. The problem was, the face was familiar, but he had no clue where he'd seen it. Nothing he could stick it to.

His eyes narrowed as he tried to remember where he'd seen the guy. Hideous glasses, so there was no way it was a business partner, cheap jacket, yellow teeth. Definitely not someone of his social circle. He was so close to figuring it out. Maybe someone who'd worked for him at the Smallville plant? But the guy didn't look like a factory worker.

Chloe could see that Lex was clearly focused on something or someone behind her so she didn’t bother to check the exasperated sigh from escaping her lips. She couldn’t even hold the attention of someone that actually seemed to enjoy her company. Chloe picked up a menu that had been left gracefully at their table by a passing waiter and realized that the whole thing was in French. Which, was not the language that she had taken in school.

She didn’t doubt that Lex spoke it fluently…Lionel probably would have insisted that his son be at least trilingual. Which reminded her…..

Just coming out and saying that she had been chatting up his father before going to his office might be a huge misstep with Lex. But, she couldn’t come up with a natural segue. She put the menu down and said, “I spoke to your father before meeting up with you today. He actually gave me a quote for my story.”

That jerked his attention away from the man he was contemplating. His eyes focused back on Chloe, the mere thought of her interacting with his father raising his hackles.

“What did he say,” he asked levelly, even though there were at least five other questions he wanted to ask. One of which being 'What did you tell him', another 'Did he try anything shifty', yet another 'Does he know you're out with me', and let's not forget 'How is it possible he bumped into you' and 'Was he anywhere near my office'.

She knew that Lex was trying not to pounce on her with a million questions. It was only natural that he would want to know everything about their interaction. So, Chloe wasn’t about to piece out the story.

“I ran into him while going to your office. He thought that I was there to see my dad so I told him that I was there to get the books on my article.” Chloe leaned a little further back in her chair, trying to get comfortable. “We discussed DeHaven a little and then he told me that the man was still alive.”

She had left out the part of them now being on a first name basis but it didn’t seem all that important to her. Lex only needed to know the gist of the conversation, being that it wasn’t anything too important.

“I didn’t know if you had told him about seeing me, so I didn’t mention it to him.” The last word was higher pitched, making her statement seem like a question. But Chloe really wasn’t sure what Lionel knew about her going out with his son and wasn’t about to out their friendship.

Lex nodded, satisfied with her answers for now. “Good.”

That problem solved, his gaze inadvertently went back to the man behind Chloe's back. His mind was trying to puzzle out where he'd seen him before, knowing that something was not alright with that guy. When he saw a flash of black plastic dangling out from under the guy’s jacket, it hit him like a two by four.

Instead of bursting out with a string of profanities, like he wanted to, he calmly placed his menu on the table and took a sip of his wine. Holding the glass at an angle that kept his mouth hidden from the man across the room he looked directly at Chloe.

“I'm afraid we won't be able to continue this date here,” he spoke calmly.

Realizing how that might come across the wrong way, he continued quickly. “It seems that for some reason, the press has decided to hound me today and found the perfect opportunity to get a few pictures.”

Chloe checked the urges to groan and turn around. Instead, she picked up her own glass of water and tried to think of a viable escape plan. However, she imagined that Lex was already doing so. “What are you thinking? I excuse myself and then you leave, too? Course, that would be obvious.”

This sucked. Plain and simple. She had been looking forward to a relaxed evening and now she and Lex were fully ensconced in a game of dodge the man with camera.

“You're quite right,” he answered.

Taking another sip of his wine, he actually caught the sleazy paparazzo staring at them, probably trying to read past the wine glass what Lex had said and making a spectacle of himself in the process. Of course as soon as Lex's gaze wandered across him, making sure not to linger, the guy jerked his eyes away even more obviously.

Returning the wine glass to its previous position where it hid the movement of his mouth, he continued.

“We’ll do nothing until the waiter comes to take our orders. Then with a little help, we'll let the waiter block his view and get out through the kitchen. The door behind me on the right,” he paused, “Well, your left, actually.”

It wasn't the first time he'd done this, but the last time had not been because of a woman. Lex nearly winced when he remembered part of their previous conversation. “You might want to take off your shoes.”

Chloe listened attentively and was sure not to tense up. She knew the way that these men worked. Hell, she worked with quite a few of them and they were very adept at reading body language. If the guy sensed that something was up, he would just start snapping away. A shot of the back of her head was better than no shot at all.

She made sure to find the door Lex was talking about and then said, “Sounds like a plan,” evenly. She could feel her body preparing to make a break for it and tried to make the adrenaline work for her and not against her.

Thankfully, the shoes weren’t too hard to take off. She crossed one leg and then the other, sure to make her movements as unobtrusive as possible, as she took off her shoes. She moved them to the side of her chair with one of her feet so they would be easy to pick up as they made their way out.

Lex watched her movements, feigning nonchalance. He hated having to do this. This could have been a perfectly nice get together. They'd had decent conversation and the food would have been excellent and instead he had to plan and execute an escape from a fucking paparazzo so they wouldn't end up splashed all over the place with headlines about their 'Reunion' and natter about Chloe being the possible next Mrs. Luthor.

He should have thought of this sooner, they should've met somewhere private and stayed out of the public eye. Lex took another sip of his wine, casting a glance over his shoulder to see if the waiter would be coming any time soon. As if on cue, the gangly boy-man in the black vest and long white apron made his way over to their table. At least something.

The coup of getting Lex Luthor and his date sitting in his section was making Robert giddy. But, he had to remain professional at all times. Even though he had only been working at the place for a little over a year, he knew that something was amiss once he reached the table.

Before, the couple had been at ease now….well, something was going on. “Mr. Luthor,” he said. But the man’s name came out as a question.

Lex lifted his gaze to the boy who stood between him and Chloe at the table. “Hello, Robert, wasn't it,” he confirmed.

He'd heard the maitre'd speaking to the young man when they'd arrived and he'd been assigned to their table. It never hurt to address someone by their name. And apparently the boy was smart, since he'd obviously noticed something was not alright.

“We would be most appreciative if you could do us a little favor,” Lex continued, a polite smile on his face as he picked up the menu.

Looking at the menu in front of him, he held it in a way that it would again hide the lower half of his face from the view of the paparazzo.

His voice dropped to a lower level, his tone changing as he spoke business. “Robert, I want you to put yourself slightly behind the lady, but without blocking her from getting up. Chloe, lift up your menu and pretend you're asking for something on it, shift back in your chair.”

As he spoke, he shifted slightly back in his own chair, folding the menu and handing it to the slightly stunned boy. “When I say now, we're leaving. Robert, I assure you, you'll be rewarded generously for your help.”

Robert did as instructed immediately. He had surmised that there was something that Mr. Luthor and his date needed to get away from. His eyes found the door behind Mr. Luthor. When he saw Kylie, the other waitress who was working his section pass by, he caught her eye and gestured towards the door.

He held the chair out for the blonde and she got up gracefully. Robert was careful to shield her body from the rest of the people behind them and Mr. Luthor gave the aforementioned signal. Robert looked up at Kylie and saw that she had opened the door to the kitchen.

Lex was out of his chair and grabbed for Chloe's hand pulling her past him so that she could go first. “Whatever you do, don't look back,” he ordered as he kept one hand on the small of her back, nodding towards the waitress that held the door for them.

He could hear a ruckus behind them and knew that the paparazzo had gotten up from his chair and was now probably trying to shoot some pictures in a last ditch effort. Thankfully, he wouldn't be getting anything other than Lex's back in front of his lens. A few more strides and they were through the door, the wood swinging shut behind them and the ruckus in the main area drowned out by the noise in the kitchen around them.

Some of the staff turned around to stare, but Lex didn't dignify it with a comment and simply kept his hands on Chloe's waist, steering her onwards. “Straight and then to the left, that gets us out.”

They were going to have to take a taxi. Lex's Porsche was parked out front and the sleazy reporter could probably only be held up for so long and would go straight for the car, assuming they'd try to go back there. Thankfully the side alley of the restaurant led all the way through to the next bigger street and they could hail a cab from there.

Chloe did her best to avoid the debris that was behind the restaurant. She was glad that it was an uppity place, they seemed to even take pride in the outside part of the restaurant that guests usually didn’t see. There wasn’t much for her to dodge in her bare feet.

As Lex calmly hailed a taxi, Chloe commented, “I’m assuming that’s not the first time you’ve had to make such an exit.” Chloe wondered how Lex dealt with all of it and was still able to keep his sanity. It had been a thought that she had had in Smallville, as well.

Before Lex could answer, a cab pulled up to the curb and Chloe felt herself beginning to relax again. Lex held the door for her and she settled herself in the back seat, slipping her shoes back on her feet.

kimmie

14th August 2005, 20:35

When will they ever get to finish a date, nothing seems to be going to plan, damn paparrazzi, and please say theres some chlex smoochies coming soon!!! Loved Lionel thinking about the future and Lex and Chloe having kids, like the sweet side of Lionel.

Another brilliant update...

Kimmie

lexchloe

14th August 2005, 20:48

And just when things seemed to be going well!! Great update. Glad Lionel took Gabe's advice to heart and that he's back to being optimistic (but not overly enthusiastic) about Chloe and Lex getting together. Nice to see Chloe and Lex getting along so well but I do wish their dates would go more smoothly. Can't wait to see what happens next.

hfce

14th August 2005, 22:03

Again with the unfinished date. Please next time at least let them have some bread. LOL! It was a great update more please..... :beg:

Hope :)

teejei

14th August 2005, 23:24

loved the restaurant banter; i too could imagine Chloe alert and carefully watching her food with her high-heeled shoe, ready to spear or pound to death anything that stirred.

*sigh* well, at least they got their drinks. :P

Krysia

14th August 2005, 23:54

:) that was an escape straight out of an James Bond movie ;) I love their banter about the dress and Chloe with Lionel is just to funny. More, please :)

star del mar

15th August 2005, 04:34

Very covert, I love that Lex can stay so calm in situations like that, he got them out and without a need for a scene. That sucks though! There date was ruined, but maybe they can find a quieter place...to get to know each other better :D Wishful thinking, lol.

Steph*

SinnerSaint

15th August 2005, 05:31

One should always wear sensible shoes just in case you have to flee your date. Or with your date . :)

darkangel

15th August 2005, 06:44

Their lives are anything but ordinary. I love this story.

arkakitty

15th August 2005, 10:23

Brilliant :) More soon please.

meg20

15th August 2005, 14:40

When I was looking foward to reading about a really fun date you just wouldn't give it to me, please say that they continue this somewhere else, preferably Lex' place, and we can have some Chlex.
Please update soon!!!

Louie

15th August 2005, 15:50

Lex should just take her to his home in the suburbs. And is Lionel the architect??? Dirty Paparazzi ruin everything.

randa

16th August 2005, 00:26

Wow! let me just tell you gals something... I LOVE THIS ONE!

Ok, after being gone all summer long with no internet, i just now got to the internet and spent all night catching up on my most missed stories.

this one should win an award. the banter all over is so good and right on the nose. Lionel is absolutely wonderful in this and i love the side thing with gabe and celeste.

keep up the amazing job yall have been doing!

randa

Kit Merlot

16th August 2005, 03:04

This was an awesome update.

I really liked how Chloe is already getting protective of Lex, especially when she wished that Lionel was kinder to his son--that was very cool.

And I really enjoyed Chloe realizing that Lex is a gentleman by nature, and that he wasn't being a pompous jerk when he ordered her drink for her--that was even cooler.

But the coolest of all? That Lex wanted to protect Chloe from the tabloid journalists' taking their picture together. :D

FABULOUS!!

campbti

16th August 2005, 16:33

A brilliant update. Loved the Lionel interaction. The escape was great. Although I feel certain after working in restaurants for awhile that her feet would not come through unscathed. However, Lex playing nurse to maybe a small piece of glass would be very sweet, worked great for me once after a long hike from a bar.

More soon, and the architect angle is interesting as well. Can't wait for more.

JosiCuervo

16th August 2005, 17:14

She heard the ding of the elevator and saw Lionel Luthor step off of it. When he saw her, he slowed down his gait and waited for her to catch up with him. The man really was changing in his old age. That thought struck her when he smiled at her. Nothing too out of control but she definitely saw more teeth on him than she ever had. Which, she noticed, was a shame. He wasn’t bad looking…..and she couldn’t believe that she had just thought that.
My thoughts exactly the first time I pondered the appeal of the MB…I was disturbed for at least a week…

Lionel did not giggle. He never had. But, he came dangerously close.
I thoroughly enjoy Lionel as the giddy matchmaker. He always makes me smile and it’s really nice since I’m so used to wanting to castrate him.

Lex looked up from his paperwork after a moment to great Chloe properly, however what he'd meant to say died in his throat when he saw what she was wearing. There seemed to be a common misconception regarding his favorite color and Lex wondered if she'd fallen prey to that misconception and if that was the case, if she'd chosen the color for a reason.
I refuse to believe Lex’s favorite color is purple…thank you for clearing this up…

The severe heels were the only shoes that were appropriate to go along with her dumb dress.
I can totally relate as I have many severely impractical shoes bought for the sole purpose of looking nice with a dumb dress.

They were totally impractical but they gave her some much needed height so she had bought them.
I like to tell people I’m 5’11” with my shoes on…

Great update! Now I can only hope they’re going back to Lex’s for some make out time. Perhaps a little fondling…stroking…I’m going for hard –R-… ;)

~Erica

asharnanae

17th August 2005, 02:12

fantastic!!

Gemkat5

17th August 2005, 03:01

Well, he got her to take her shoes off... and there was no fighting! That's a start! :D Now... where will they end up next? Must have an update!!!

BellaMR

19th August 2005, 05:52

Please let them finish their date somewhere. :beg: After all that hard work can't they at least go to the McDonald's drive thru and get some burgers?

I can't wait to see what Chloe uncovers about the architect. I have a feeling there's going to be an interesting story there.

mimi71884

19th August 2005, 19:15

wooooooooooooo

I LOVE THIS FIC!

update soon!

darkangel

20th August 2005, 07:09

Update soon. This fic is so hott. :devil:

buddyfozzy

20th August 2005, 20:04

Fucking purple. She looked like one of the official members of the Lex cheerleading squad.

:rofl: :rofl:

“Hello…” Chloe paused. She remembered that she was supposed to call him Lionel and it would be rude to knowingly disobey his cordial gesture. However, he had screwed with Lex more times than she could count. On the other hand, he was her dad’s boss. But, if you looked at it from another perspective, he just might be the devil. But, her dad did like him so that had to count for something. Chloe had to bite down on her lip to stifle the laughter that was bubbling up inside.

This sounds like my thought process....I always have about ten other hands. :P

She breathed a sigh of relief when she noticed that he wasn’t wearing any purple. At least they wouldn’t match like a bunch of freaks.

I really hate that too. :ecstatic:

I liked the end of this chapter, I can't wait to see how the rest of their date goes. Great chapter! :respect:

BlueSabby

21st August 2005, 18:09

A/N:Sabby: So here there be a huge update...with Chloe and Lex and...cab rides and a surprise... Enjoy *G*

A/N: Blue: No kissing, just talking...and lots of it.

“Where to,” Chloe heard barked at them as they settled in the back of the cab.

Lex arched a brow at the driver's tone, but gave him the address of the bigger intersection about a block away from his own street. He didn't trust anyone with his address and even though the cab driver didn't look like it now, the coin might very well drop soon enough as to who was riding in the back seat.

Turning back to Chloe, he relaxed a little as the car pulled into the street and away from the restaurant, heading out of town. “I apologize for that. It's been quite a while since something like this happened, I just thought that this would be the best option to deal with it, all things considered.” He kept his statement deliberately vague.

Chloe nodded at Lex’s words. “Yes, I happen to agree. Except with the part where you feel it necessary to apologize to me for it. It’s hardly your fault that the world is made up mostly of jackasses.”

She slumped back into the seat and looked out of the window as the city passed by. She wasn’t familiar with the section of town that the street Lex had given the driver was located in. It was the more suburban part, if there even was one, of Metropolis.

She figured that Lex wouldn’t want to answer the numerous questions about where they were going, and it would become apparent sooner or later so she said, “At least it’s never a dull moment with you.” Chloe smiled over at him, hoping that the look of tension would lessen on his face.

Lex chuckled, leaning back against the worn leather behind him. “Well, to be honest. Sometimes I wouldn't mind a boring day or two, I think I've had about as much adventure as one guy can take during the last decade,” he said and added on an after thought, “James Bond doesn't count.” Since that was about the only person, and a fictional one at that, he could think of who'd went through comparably incredible stories.

Seeing that they were well on their way towards his home, it occurred to him for the first time that he hadn't even given Chloe a choice of ending their little get together. She hadn't said anything though when the driver had asked for directions, so he'd just assumed. More surprising was that he hadn't given it much of a second thought to take her to his house. In fact the second thought had only gone so far as to not give the taxi driver his real address.

What was it about Chloe Sullivan that made him break with all his usual rules and just act on impulse? It was truly amazing. But then, he hadn't had a friend in a long time and he dimly remembered that it had been somewhat like that with a certain farmboy. A farmboy that nowadays he only heard of by way of reading by-lines in the Daily Planet.

Thinking about all that had happened to Lex in the past few years, Chloe had to agree. “I’d say so. At least Bond gets to save the world every now and again and have a grateful country thank him.”

Looking over at Lex, she commented, “I’d say that you’re the person I know whose most desperately in need of a vacation.” She paused. “A long one at that, too.”

Lex knew that as well, but there was no way it was going to happen. “I'm assuming three months on a tropical island about 7 years ago don't count, do they,” he quipped.

Of course that hadn't been vacation, more like survival training, but he doubted that Chloe even remembered that. She'd had her own thing going on back then. High school and all that.

Chloe crossed her arms over her chest and fixed Lex with a look. “No, being stranded on a deserted island because of your psychotic wife does, in fact, not count. Being on an island only counts if it was your choice to go there and there are scantily clad men serving you drinks.” She shook her head, “Women in your case, though.”

While a vacation sounded like absolute bliss to her she knew that it would probably be hell for Lex. With nothing to do but relax, it was quite likely that the man sitting across from her would go crazy. But she suspected that he could unwind, in his own way, if given the chance.

Over the course of the years she had learned that people were never quite what they seemed and, if given the chance, they would surprise the hell out of you more often than not.

Lex's brow arched at the vehemence in her tone when she answered. Apparently, she not only remembered but had a pretty strong opinion on the matter as well. Interesting. It made him smirk.

“I'll think about it,” he answered.

Of course he'd be thinking about it until he retired because there was no chance in hell he'd get any kind of vacation before that day. Not only because of his father, but more than partly because of his own ambitions. He couldn't let things just rest and leave them behind for weeks on end. That wasn't him. He was the guy that read the economy and financial section with his morning coffee and started plotting on multi-billion dollar deals in the rush hour traffic of early mornings.

He did unwind, sometimes. That was for the two or three hours in the evenings before he went to bed. Watching mindless TV or reading a book, sit on his back porch and staring into nothing, his mind turning to white noise. That's how Lex relaxed.

The taxi slowed down and, casting a look out of the window, he realized they'd arrived at their destination. Before the driver could make any comment, Lex pulled out his wallet and pulled out a hundred dollar bill. He reached it through the small hole in the glass partition and simply said, “Keep the rest.”

As Lex took her hand and led her out of the cab, Chloe attempted to ignore how nice his warm hand felt in hers. Instead, she took in her surroundings. It was a regular suburban block. The houses were a little bigger than the ones back in Smallville but it still had that same sense of community, some how.

She looked over at Lex, “So, which one is yours?” She peeked up and down the street, trying to guess. She knocked out all of the ones that had lights on in them and the ones that she could see children playing in the front yards of. That honestly didn’t leave many. And it definitely wasn’t the one in the awful shade of pale green.

Seeing her taking in the hideous green three story house at the corner, he contemplated for a second telling her it was that one. But then, she'd probably know he was trying to pull her leg. Instead he started walking down the street that would lead to the cul de sac he lived in.

“None of them actually, but don't worry it's only down the street, not far.”

Of course with those kind of shoes, 'not far' might not be a consolation either. But then he really didn't trust strangers and there was no way he would have given the cab driver his address. So Chloe'd just have to deal with a short walk. The streets here were as good as licked clean, so she could even take her shoes off and go barefoot.

Nodding, Chloe walked alongside of Lex. She noticed that he had yet to let go of her hand….but decided not to comment on it. Besides, she had to focus on walking in her shoes now that the straps were undone. They kept almost slipping off of her feet and it would take them forever to get to Lex’s house like this.

“Hold on,” she said and then let go of Lex’s hand. She gently kicked her shoes off of her feet and picked them up in her left hand. As she stood up, she was grateful for her quick reflexes.

A child came out of seemingly nowhere on a bike and she had to jump out of his way as he careened down the sidewalk. She heard the word, “Sorry,” carry over to her in a sing song voice and took another step back as a girl on a bike quickly followed the boy.

The girl was peddling as fast as her legs could take her but she was still lagging behind the boy. She was at least three years younger than him and screamed at him to “Wait up or she’d tell Mom.”

Lex hadn't realized he'd still been holding on to her hand until she'd released it to pick up her shoes. He shoved his hands into his pockets, but didn't get to contemplate the thought much when the Martinsen kids came bursting down the side walks.

On instinct, Lex's hands came back out to stabilize Chloe when she almost fell into him, trying not to get hit by the rushing bikes. As soon as she was standing on her own two feet again, he felt the need to comment on the incident.

“They live just down the street from me. Bit wild, but as far as I know good kids,” he said. “Hell on wheels, though,” he added as he turned around looking the direction they'd come from.

The two were probably heading for the park nearby. When he'd moved here, they'd almost knocked him over as well, but they'd apologized in quite the same manner and the next time, Lex had been watching out. Kids couldn't be trusted to keep in mind the well being of other people when they were on a mission, or so he'd learned while watching those two.

“Reminds me of someone else I know,” Chloe said, trying to hide the smile on her face. During his time in Smallville, Chloe knew that Lex had accrued an exorbitant amount of both speeding and parking tickets. She’d also seen, first hand, his driving skills. They looked much like her own but he didn’t need to know that.

“But, your neighborhood hellraisers are fairly tame compared to the ones back home,” she said as she continued to follow Lex. “And, they were very polite about almost knocking me over.”

They appeared to be slowing down and Chloe said, “Is it one of these,” as she pointed at the new row of houses that appeared in the cul de sac where they were now standing.

Lex nodded, starting down the smaller street. “Yeah,” he checked to see if Mrs. Martinsen was home. She was apparently rooting around in the kitchen and when she saw him out of the window, she waved.

Lex inclined his head in return before turning back to Chloe. “Want to guess which one?”

It wasn't like there were any big clues. The houses were all pretty much in the same style and the differences only showed in smaller things. Some of the houses had children's toys or small blow up pools in the foreground, others had a personalized mail box, and then of course there were the flowerbeds.

Lex had tried that, but he didn't have a green thumb, or a real interest in it and paying a gardener to do it had seemed too ridiculous. So in the end, he'd decided to forget about that and now he simply paid one of the neighbors' kids to mow the lawn every other week and that was that.

Chloe looked from house to house and eliminated the ones that obviously had children living in them. There were only three or four left after that. One had the last name of the occupants on the mailbox so that one was out. Another was, again, a hideous color so it was out.

The two that were left were both well taken care of. One was a little set back from the road so she thought that might be Lex’s.

She could feel Lex watching her as she studied the house in front of her.

It was on the big side but still fit in with the neighborhood. All it needed was a picket fence and 2.54 children running around in the front yard and it would be the picture of perfect suburbia.

Chloe’s theory that Lex really wanted all the trappings of a regular life was boosted by what she saw in front of her. If he really wanted to continue to be a fast living bachelor with tons of women crawling all over him, this was hardly the ideal place to live.

“Is that it,” she asked, pointing at the house on the left. It was also the only one that didn’t have houses on both sides of it so she really believed it was Lex’s.

She'd picked out the correct one. Lex was impressed. Chloe had obviously not lost her ability of putting what she observed together to get the bigger picture. It was one of the things that had made her an impressive journalist, even when she'd only been a high school student.

“I'm impressed,” he acknowledged, giving her a small grin even as they walked up the small paved trail towards the front door.

He wondered what she thought of it. Since nobody knew where he lived, most people still were still trying to find him in the city. So far, nobody had tried to follow him to his house. It wasn't what people would expect of him, or believe, he knew that. When they heard the name Lex Luthor, they immediately thought of the life of the rich and famous and imagined a fancy apartment, art deco or a penthouse in the middle of downtown. Some where convinced he still lived in the Penthouse at LuthorCorp.

He had lived there, but some day it simply hadn't been what he wanted anymore. No matter what he'd done to make it his space, it had still looked clinical and cold, more like a second office with a bedroom than an actual home. Lex remembered the castle back in Smallville. That hadn't been his real home either. Too much of a big, cold tomb. The only rooms that had felt like 'him' had been the study and his bedroom.

This house actually felt like home. It wasn't too big, but not small either, had both office and private rooms, all the amenities he needed but none of the pomp. Contrary to popular belief, he did know how to manage a household and did not need servants to wait on him hand and foot to cope with daily life. This was what he'd wanted and he'd known it the moment he'd seen the house.

Lex took out the keys to his front door and let Chloe in, waiting to hear what she'd have to say. He had a feeling that whatever it was she thought about it, he'd get to hear an honest opinion. Maybe that was a reason he'd not been hesitant to bring her here. In any case, he had decided that he wanted a friendship and part of a friendship was to know how the other lived. He already knew Chloe's apartment, now it was time she saw his home.

Again, Chloe felt Lex watching her. It was strange to think that the man standing next to her cared about what she thought. Then again, she was probably the only one that didn’t kiss his ass and tell him exactly what he wanted to hear. Being with her was most likely a nice change for him.

The first thing that struck her was the wide open spaces. It reminded her, in a way, of the castle in Smallville but that was where the similarities ended. The house was immaculate but was not devoid of warmth. That could have been due to the hugeass fire place smack dab in the living room, though.

It wasn’t on but she could just imagine how toasty the room would become if it was cranked up. Especially if one were sitting on what looked to be a sinfully expensive and comfortable leather couch. But it was the actual personal touches that made Chloe think that this was more of a home to Lex than the Manor had ever been.

Lex started to turn on a few lights in the room but still didn’t say anything. Chloe recognized that he was giving her time to check out her surroundings. She wandered off to her left and saw the high tech kitchen that would have her father salivating in two seconds flat.

She had noticed that there was a sliding glass door directly opposite the front door and she walked over to it. After flipping the lock on it, she walked out onto the porch. She placed her hands on the rail and a shiver went through her as the wind picked up a little. Her bare feet on the wood panels felt cool but it was a clear night and she could actually see stars, unlike in her apartment. Faintly, she could actually hear the sound of children coming from somewhere. ‘Doesn’t want to settle down again, my ass.’

Lex had come up behind her and put his back against the rail so he could look down at her. “It’s not exactly what I expected,” Chloe said, honestly. “But,” she said, “it fits you very well somehow. It’s almost like….” She trailed off, knowing what she wanted to say but unsure if it would seem too real. She decided to just keep going.

“It’s as if you finally realized what you wanted and got it instead of getting what you thought you should want.” She chuckled and then looked back up at him, “Did that make any sense whatsoever?”

Lex chuckled and was just about to answer when he heard the crash of metal hitting ground followed shortly by a female voice ranting loudly in Norwegian before a door slammed closed. So the Martinsen kids had returned home. He grinned as he turned back to Chloe.

“It does make sense,” he answered, leaning more comfortably against the railing. “One day I just decided I'd had enough of living in a sterile penthouse and went looking for something else. I came across this house by chance and,” he shrugged, “Bought it.”

That was the short version of the story. “Do you want anything to drink?”

“Please,” Chloe said as she nodded. “Whatever you’re having, as long as it’s not wine.” Lex nodded at her and disappeared back into the house. As soon as he was gone, Chloe made her way down the stairs of the porch and into the back yard.

As a kid, she had loved being barefoot in the back yard in the evening time. The feel of the grass on her bare feet tickled her a little but she ignored it. As she looked around, she saw that there wasn’t much in the back yard. It looked like it needed a garden or a swing set, or well, something….

Lex came back with two bottles of TyNant in hand. Chloe had wandered further out into the yard and Lex watched her for a moment. It seemed like she was mentally sizing up the yard. He shrugged it off and stepped down from the porch onto the grass. The Simmon's boy would have to come over this weekend to mow, he decided absent mindedly.

“Looking for something,” he asked as he stepped up beside her, giving the empty lawn a quick once over.

Chloe straightened up and knew that she had to have a guilty look on her face. She took the bottle of water from Lex and took a quick sip before answering him. “I’m not looking for something. It’s just that seems to me that something is missing.”

“Maybe a nice sandbox for you to build castles in,” she said with a grin.

“Or, I think maybe a dog.” She looked around and then nodded, “Yes, a dog, you have a big enough place with it.”

Lex ignored the sandbox comment and shook his head. He'd had enough of that with the damn yipping furball that Skylar had insisted to bring to his house. Not that something like that could really be called a dog in good conscience.

“I've never been one for dogs.” Too needy and annoying, depending on you for everything. “I've always been more of a cat person.”

Not that he'd ever had a cat himself, but if he'd ever get a pet for some indiscernible reason, it would be a cat. Independent creature that didn't need him home 24/7 and didn't insist on hanging on his coat tails where ever he went.

Chloe should have known that Lex would be more likely to have an animal whose love was sometimes conditional on its own mood. “But, look all of the room you have,” she said, gesturing to the yard. “It’s a damn shame that some poor dog is being denied it’s right to frolic just because you’re more of a cat person.” She made an overly dramatic exasperated sigh and then drank some more of her water.

“Something tells me that I won’t be able to change your mind, though.” She looked around and then realized what it was that was missing. In every back yard she had ever been in there was some type of furniture. But, Lex didn’t have any. The thought struck her that he didn’t get many guests.

“I suppose a cat would fit you well. They're so stuck up and aloof and....yeah, you'd like them,” she tilted her head up at him and winked. A full blown smile appeared on her face when she got a mental image of Lex sitting next to a Siamese on his couch, both of them with the same straight posture and ‘fuck you’ look on their faces.

It should have been offending, but Lex knew how he was seen by the public and he'd also found out by now that Chloe knew better than that. And then there was the full blown grin on Chloe's face as she looked at him, head cocked to the side.

“Why do I get the feeling that you're imagining me in some kind of Doctor No scenario, petting the cat in my lap and sending some poor fool into a painful demise.”

Not that he couldn't imagine himself doing just that. He wondered what his father's facial expression would look like when Lionel found himself in the roll of 'poor fool'. Maybe he should get a cat after all.

Chloe burst out laughing at Lex’s comment. It was far too close to the truth. She made sure to keep her grip on the bottle but it was difficult because of how hard she was laughing. “Not in your lap,” she was able to say between laughs. “More like sitting next to you as you read some Proust. Ready to leap into action at a moment’s notice.”

She needed to stop this. As more images of Lex and his trusty side kick filled her mind, the cat in its own bed right beside Lex’s, the cat at board meetings with its own chair, she started to laugh harder. Once she finally got ahold of herself she looked over at him, “I’m sorry. Maybe we should discuss the oil market or something dull like that so I don’t turn into a freak again.”

Lex was still grinning, wondering just what kind of mental images she'd gotten from the idea. The good mood was infectious and for some reason, he didn't mind at all that she'd just had a laughing fit at his expense. He wondered what kind of cat she saw him with.

“It's quite alright,” he said, “And I don't actually dabble in the oil market, so I'm afraid I wouldn't have that much to say about it.”

He looked up and noticed that the sky had turned completely dark by now, the stars shining clearly except for a few stray clouds littering around. Glancing at his watch, he saw that it was already past eight. They'd never gotten around to actually eating and he wondered if Chloe was hungry by now.

Looking her up and down, he saw that she still hadn't put her shoes back on and even he could feel the temperature dropping through his shirt.

“It's getting a bit cold. How about we go back inside?”

Chloe smiled up at him and her expression widened at the look on his face. Lex seemed at ease and all the more attractive when he was like that. She tried to brush away her last thought. She had already decided that she was not going to get a crush on Lex. It would be horribly detrimental to the friendship that they were building and she wasn’t going to be the one to fuck it up all to hell.

“Sounds good,” Chloe said. He gestured for her to go first and she made her way up the porch stairs and into the living room. She heard the sliding glass door close and looked over at the leather couch. It was too much temptation to fight and she sat down, sinking into the cushions.

It might have been that she was just tired from all of the excitement but Chloe could swear that the couch molded around her body, making her so comfortable that she thought Lex might have to pry her up with a crowbar. She moaned, “This is heaven. How do you ever get up?”

Lex grinned as he watched Chloe practically trying to vanish into the upholstery.

“Simple. The coffee and food is in the kitchen. That's enough incentive to move.”

Talking about food, he was starting to get hungry himself. There was still some chicken in the fridge and he did have basic ingredients to cook up a meal, but somehow, he didn't quite feel like it. Leaning over the back of the couch he looked down at Chloe, sprawled on the leather.

“I was thinking. Since we didn't get to actually eat at the restaurant, how do you feel about Chinese take out,” he asked and then before she could give an answer added, “I promise they have nothing that's going to try and crawl out of the box.”

Chloe opened her eyes and saw Lex looming above her. She had clearly heard his question because it was food related. And her body informed her that it was very hungry. “That sounds perfect. Especially because it doesn’t involve me having to do anything.”

If her feet weren’t slightly dirty, they would also have been propped up on the couch. Of course, that would lead to her actually lying down on the couch. And that seemed rather rude to her for some reason.

“Just make sure to get extra fortune cookies. I like to pick and choose about what my future holds. Especially if one of them tells me to learn Chinese.” She wrinkled her nose. “I hate it when they do that, it’s not a fortune, it’s an order.”

Lex bit his tongue on the correction that it was Mandarin, not Chinese and that the language wasn't that hard, it was the writing that was complicated. Instead he nodded and grabbed the cordless from the side table, hitting speed dial two. What did it say about him that his speed dials were all numbers for deliveries, with the exception being the number one which put him through to the office. Lex wasn't sure he really wanted to know.

“Alright, do you want anything in particular,” he asked while he listened to the dial tone waiting for the Chinese store and delivery to pick up.

“I’m not the one who’s the picky eater,” she reminded him. Chloe would usually try anything once. And, if it was bad she would just be forced to raid Lex’s fridge. “But nothing too messy. The dress may be ridiculous for me to go out with you in, but it was very expensive and makes me look pretty. I don’t want to ruin it.”

Chloe looked around the room and noticed that there wasn’t a TV. At least one that she could see. However, there was a cabinet across from the couch and a few remotes sitting on the table in front of her. She’d wager that one of them caused the TV to pop out. Of course, if she picked the wrong one, God only knew what would happen.

Lex watched her gaze going back and forth between the remote controls on the couch table and flicking up to the wall across the couch with the fireplace taking up center space. He was just about to say something when the line finally clicked and somebody answered on the other end.

Little Dragon, Store and Delivery this is Mai Leigh speaking, how can I help you?

“Hello, Mai. This is Lex from 1740 Park Lane,” he answered, stepping around the couch to pick up the remote on the left.

Lex, hi, what can I do for you? Instantly, the rather bored rambling on the other end of the line turned into a chipper voice.

Mai Leigh was the seventeen year old grand daughter of the store owner. She handled the phone most nights and Lex had met her the few times he'd actually gone to the store personally to buy something. He suspected that the girl had kind of a crush on him, but she didn't let it show too much, so it didn't pose a problem.

Lex pressed the button that would cause the fake walls to slide away and reveal the tv above the fire place, then handed the remote to Chloe.

“Oh, I just had a craving for something Chinese tonight, so of course you were the first thing to spring to mind,” he answered smoothly and could swear he heard the girl on the other end blush.

She mumbled something in Mandarin that Lex didn't quite catch before answering. Well, what shall it be then. Pork? Chicken? Fish?

With him, she didn't need to make it sound better by using the run of the mill names of Chinese take out menus. Lex appreciated it.

“Chicken,” he answered immediately. “Oh and, put in a handful of fortune cookies.”

The pause that followed wasn't unexpected. Lex got a mental image of Mai Leigh taking the receiver away from her ear and staring at it, thinking there must be something wrong with the reception or something.

Okay, The word was slightly drawn out, Chicken, sweet sharp as you like it, and a handful of fortune cookies, the last words were spoken like a question.

Lex usually didn't do fortune cookies. They were pretty much tasteless and he didn't see the point of reading nonsensical little platitudes.

”Yes, that'll be good.”

Alright, it'll be there in twenty minutes, tops.

“Thank you. Ok Mai, tell your grand-father hello from me.”

Will do. And you come around again, we got that new order from Beijing in.

“Ok, I'll fit it in some time next week or so. Bye Maimai.”

Bye, Lex.

He pushed the disconnect button and put the phone back into the cradle.

Chloe had heard Lex ordering the food but had been too busy pressing the buttons on the remote to pay him much mind. His entertainment system could do all sorts of neat things. He must get really bored by himself here, she thought.

Once he sat down next to her she said, “You have got to come over to my place and do…whatever that you did here.” She pressed another button and the Dolby surround sound kicked on. Unfortunately, a commercial about tampons was on and not some grand, sweeping epic music that would have sounded cool.

“Lex,” she said turning towards him, “I never thought that I would ever say this but, you are such a geek.” She smiled at him. “We just have to get you some specs and a lab coat with your name on it and you’ll be good to go.”

Lex gave her an offended look, even though he really didn't mind. He of all people knew best the real extent of his weirdness. “I can assure you, my sight is a perfect twenty-twenty,” he said haughtily.

And as far as the lab coat went, well that was down in the basement. In his lab. No name tag, though. But Chloe didn't need to know that. Lex had a feeling he wouldn't live it down. Even though it was a mystery to him why he shouldn't flaunt his hobby. She had her kick boxing and he had a perfectly equipped lab in his basement that allowed him to experiment with everything his high speed, run away mind could come up with when left to think about something other than business for a few hours.

“And I prefer the terms amateur scientist and micro-technology engineer,” which he realized sounded even more geeky than the word geek. He grabbed the water bottle from where he'd placed it on the coffee table and took a long drink. At least she didn't know about his comic book collection, or his reputation would be forever damaged.

“Micro-technology engineer,” Chloe restated. She was doing her best not to laugh again. Lex was being so damn earnest about the whole thing. “Got it,” she said, nodding. She started to play with the remote again, seeing if the couch did anything based on the buttons.

“Too bad about the vision though,” she pressed a green button that she thought didn’t do anything, “you’d look hot in glasses.” Her brow furrowed when a beeping noise started to emanate from the TV.

She laid off of the buttons for a second but the sound continued. “Uh oh.” She held out the remote. “Here, fix it.” When Lex just looked at her she said, “OK, I’m wrong. You’re not a geek, you’re a stallion of a man, the perfect specimen of suaveness without a trace of geekdom.” The noise was starting to get higher pitched and Chloe turned back to the TV. It sounded like it was about to explode.

Lex stuck his tongue in his cheek, biting down on it to stop himself from laughing. She'd pushed the green button. It was a special button and he loved watching her squirm as the beeping got louder and faster. He put his darkest board room expression on his face and stated lowly.

“Did you push the green button? You did, didn't you?”

He had about ten seconds or so left and couldn't wait to see the look on her face when the television went out with a poof and some nice little special effect. Yes, maybe he was bored too often but it had been fun constructing that little trick.

Oh, this was bad. Chloe wouldn’t have to worry about her own conflicting feelings towards Lex if he never spoke to her again. Her heart had sunk when he mentioned the green button. The television was sounding more and more upset. And she was sure that Lex was about to follow suit.

“Yes, I didn’t know that I wasn’t supposed to touch it. Lex, I…” At that moment, the noise reached a fever pitch and then cut off all together as the flat screen, plasma television that probably cost more than half a year of her rent made a small popping sound and then went dead.

meeaz

21st August 2005, 20:22

aw poor chloe. this was so funny. and it was a refreshing change to see lex live in suburbia and order take out. more soon, please.

hfce

21st August 2005, 20:57

Oh that was wonderful. I am so glad he showed her his house. He so wants her that its crazy. :D I love how its a neighborhood with kids. Yep my friends Chloe will be living there soon. Good job girls. :)

Hope :)

buddyfozzy

21st August 2005, 21:17

Aww, I love a domestic suburb-style Lex. ;) I like that he had no second thoughts about bringing Chloe to his home, and was comfortable having her there. Cute that it's a neighborhood with kids too. Great update! :nsparty:

BellaMR

21st August 2005, 21:19

This was hysterical. Lex and his buttons. I can totally see him pullling a Dr. Evil and sending some unsuspecting minion down to a firey pit. Of course with his cat looking on. I can't wait to see what Chloe's reaction is to "blowing up" Lex's TV. That man definately has too much time on his hands.

arkakitty

21st August 2005, 21:30

Oh my god, he's so funny xD I think they'll be great together. I mean, they are already acting as if they were really good friends, so why not move it to the next chapter...I mean stage? :) Loved it.

conquest 15

21st August 2005, 22:03

Brilliant every Sunday the first thing I do is look for an update and you haven't disappointed.

kimmie

21st August 2005, 23:21

That was so funny, when Chloe pressed the green button!!! I really liked this update, I just love that Lex is so relaxed around Chloe, I can just picture them now living together in the house in the suburbs a little mini Lex and mini Chloe running around with a big dog in the back garden, awww I'm getting a bit ahead of myself aren't I!!!

Great update as usual!!!

Kimmie

P.S Gimmie some Chlex smoochies...SOON!!!

teejei

21st August 2005, 23:58

*LoL* loved the cat-Doctor No talk, Chloe guessing which house is Lex's, the mental image of Lex looking out at Chloe while she surveys his backyard, and the look of [probably] sheer panic on Chloe's face as the tv pops. :D

can't wait for them to start eating. :P

lexchloe

22nd August 2005, 01:33

:D :D :D wonderful update.

darkangel

22nd August 2005, 01:44

This is just too funny. Great update. Please continue soon.

asharnanae

22nd August 2005, 01:49

geeky tellys, labs in basements, wonderful chinsese resteruant banter, the thoughts and the feelings, the siamese cat!

BLOODY BRILLIANT!

star del mar

22nd August 2005, 03:33

LOL, that was terrible! Lex really does have a mischievous streak doesn't he?God I can't wait to see Chloe's reaction, I'm thinking she's going to be a little mad :) And I can't say enough about their easy interaction, I love that Lex just opens up around her. Great update!

Steph*

jaxie926

22nd August 2005, 06:27

Absolutly LOVED this update! I'm still laughing at how you ended it! You two are amazing and I so totally dig your characterizations of all of the characters here! Blue and Sabby ROCK!

SinnerSaint

22nd August 2005, 06:48

OMG ! That chapter totally proved just how far a guy will go to keep other people from touching HIS remotes ! That is truly something my husband would do if only he had the time . And people wonder why I strive to keep him perpetually occupied !

meg20

22nd August 2005, 14:18

Wonderful and fun chapter, they are perfect together, because they know how much they can tease eachother. Can't wait to see what Chloe comes up after that little joke!

sylvia

22nd August 2005, 16:29

I LOVE it! Seeing bored, tired suburban!Lex have some fun with Chloe for a change is entertaining beyond words, and Lex the practical-joking geek is priceless. I love all the new sides to him Chloe's unearthing in this story. And their chemistry is just brilliant. Can't wait for more!

Louie

22nd August 2005, 17:01

It's not nice to make people think that they have broken very expencive things - mean Lex.

campbti

22nd August 2005, 19:01

God that was hilarious. I loved her assessment of the back yard, now she will just have to buy a couple of lounge chairs for them to use. And the TV thing is hilarious. The best hands down was the cat story. Awesome. more....

Kit Merlot

23rd August 2005, 03:01

This was an excellent update! I love that Lex was so comfortable that Chloe was in his house, and I liked how easily Chloe teases him--very cool.

But Lex's teasing Chloe with the green button of doom makes me feel kind of bad for her--I hope he doesn't torture her too long :D

BlueSabby

28th August 2005, 17:44

A/N:Sabby: Yeah, there's no great revelations or anything, no action either. It's really just...lots of yammering. But leave feedback anyway?

A/N: Blue: I'd say something nifty about this chapter but it's mostly dialogue. Which is fun but their are no tongues used for other purposes....just to warn you. Enjoy!

Chloe slapped her hand over her mouth and just stared at the television. She saw that a small puff of smoke was coming out of it now. She couldn’t tear her gaze away from it. “I’m sorry. I’ll pay for it, I swear that I didn’t mean to..” Chloe started to shake her head back and forth. She couldn’t believe that she had just broken such an expensive piece of equipment.

When it looked like the smoke was getting thicker Chloe worried that the whole thing was about to go up in flames. Being that Lex hadn’t made any indication that he was going to move, Chloe grabbed her water off of the table and started to head for the television. Breaking his TV was bad enough but she wasn’t about to be the one that caused his house to burn down.

It was hard to keep a straight, and most importantly, angry face when all he wanted to do was laugh his ass off while Chloe stammered about repaying him for the TV, staring completely shocked at the little puffs of smoke coming up from behind it and shaking her head like a puppet on a string. However when she grabbed the water and headed for the television, all amusement fled from his face and he was up of the couch in an instant, launching himself at her.

“NO!” He grabbed her around the waist and barely kept her from dumping the water over the tv. The bottle landed with a resounding crash in the fire place instead.

“Sweet Jesus,” he breathed out. She'd almost killed his TV for real.

Lex obviously wasn’t thinking straight. Yes, it was a beautiful TV but he wouldn’t be able to keep it anywhere if his house was a bunch of cinders. She flinched when her bottle shattered on the ground.

He still had a hold on her body but she was able to turn around, “Lex, what’s wrong with you, we have to…” she turned her head back towards the TV and saw that the smoke had disappeared.

The screen filled with an insipid commercial before her very eyes and her mouth dropped open. That was impossible. Even if the picture somehow was able to burp back to life, the thing had to be fried from being on fire.

Lex pulled her back towards the couch and made her sit down while she kept staring disbelievingly at the TV screen. Well, that joke hadn't worked out like it had with his ex-wife. But how was he supposed to know she'd go all amateur fireman on him and try to 'extinguish' the TV, literally.

“The TV is okay,” he explained. “It's just a little trick that I added that ensured me permanent remote control power.”

His ex-wife hadn't spared a thought about trying to do something about the smoke or the supposedly possessed TV, she'd simply never touched the remote again and watched the plasma screen with a very careful eye whenever she so much as walked past it.

“A trick!” Chloe heard that her voice was much higher than it usually was. She was trying not to get mad at him but Chloe hated being tricked. Lex didn’t know that, she had to remind herself. She was still seeing red. Well, maybe a deep shade of pink, so she counted to ten before speaking again.

She ran a hand through her hair. “You must have known some people with very bad taste in movies if you went to such a great extent to keep them from touching the remote.” Flying off the handle would only get them into another fight. And she didn’t want that. “The smoke was an especially nice touch.”

Lex quirked a small grin, “I thought so too, especially since it saved me from five hours straight of talk-shows,” he retorted.

Somehow he got the feeling that Chloe wasn't taking it so well after all. Why, he didn't understand since it was just a joke and even she should know that loosing a TV wouldn't be that much of a bother should worse come to worst. However, she looked like she was about a second away from exploding herself.

“I should have told you about the green button. I didn't think about it, to be honest though.”

And that was true. He'd not thought about the button or the possibility in general that Chloe would accidentally trigger one of the little mechanisms that were strewn like landmines pretty much throughout the entire ground level. The others weren't harmful after all. They just opened and closed things, made them start to play, something like that.

“I promise this is the only trick of that kind around here, so as long as you stay away from the green button, you're ok.”

Chloe nodded and then leaned back on the couch and closed her eyes. Her body was still in the flight or fight mode so she took a few deep breaths. “Are there any other sorts of tricks that I should be made aware of?” She opened her eyes and said, “There isn’t a trap door anywhere around here, right?”

“Though, I suppose that would be a little too low tech for a geek of your caliber.” She gave him a small smile before saying, “And if you think that that little stunt is going to keep me from the remote,” she leaned over and took it off of the table, “you’ve got another thing coming.”

Lifting his hands in surrender, he was just about to repeat himself and give her a list of the tricks she'd find in the downstairs area when the doorbell rang.

“That's probably the food.” He was up and on his way to the door, looking over his shoulder to add, “If you want to put in a movie. The remote on the right, yellow button opens the cabinet and the DVD player doesn't have any extra tricks to it.”

He opened the door and took the bags with the food from the delivery boy, handing him a fifty in exchange. The boy grinned happily and nodded before taking off again. Lex closed the door and returned to the living room, putting the food on the coffee table.

“Sticks or fork,” he asked.

“Sticks,” Chloe said. She was horrible with them but thought that she should learn and by experience was the only way to do so. But, she was wearing a nice dress. Lex was on his way to the kitchen and Chloe called out, “Fork.” She heard him chuckle and it made her smile to herself.

She dove into the bags and took out the little boxes of food as Lex made his way from the kitchen. He gave her a fork and she noticed that he had brought sticks for himself. She planted herself on the floor, tucking her legs under her body, and opened the first box. Her stomach grumbled when the smell hit her nose. “Smells great.”

After fixing a plate for Lex and handing it over to him, Chloe pulled up to the coffee table and dug in. “Oh, god, that’s hot,” she said around the food. She put down the fork and used her hands to fan useless air into her mouth. It was amazing how habits that you knew were stupid, like shoving piping hot food into your mouth, were not easily dropped when one was hungry.

Lex smirked at her over his chop sticks and arched an eyebrow. “Taking a swig of water might help,” he quipped before blowing on the bit of chicken and rice clamped between his sticks and putting them in his mouth.

The food was as always, excellent. Simple but well seasoned and he knew what he was putting in his mouth when he looked at it. They stuck close to the original Beijing kitchen, something Lex appreciated. Taking another bite from his food he watched Chloe glaring at him while she took a swig of her water.

“So, did you decide on a movie?”

Chloe shook her head. She’d been too busy prepping the food to press anymore of Lex’s buttons. She knew that she was too hungry to think when the bad puns invaded her brain. “You can decide.”

Stabbing another morsel of the delicious chicken, Chloe could see that Lex was gracefully manipulating his chopsticks. Looking at his hands reminded her of something. “Weren’t you supposed to bring me your x-rays on our last get together?”

Lex's brows jerked up in confusion before he remembered what she was referring to.

“Mmm,” he swallowed the food in his mouth. “Right, hold on a second.” He put his plate aside and got up from the couch.

Remembering where he'd found them - they'd been in one of the rooms upstairs, more specifically, the room filled with all the things he had never bothered to put away correctly - he was still amazed that he'd started looking for them in the first place. After all, Chloe hadn't been really serious about it, but now that she'd asked for them again, he was pretty sure that part of her really wanted to see. It wasn't too far fetched to think she'd want to see proof that Lex Luthor was just as violable as any other person.

Of course he'd forgotten the x-rays at home and noticed it when he'd already been in the office. There'd been no sense in driving back just to get them.

Chloe was taken aback when Lex actually got up and appeared to be going to get his x-rays. She was strangely touched that he had remembered their conversation and thought to go and find them for her.

Lex walked back into the room and handed her a large buff envelope. Chloe wiped her hands with a napkin and started to open the envelope. “I can’t believe that you really looked for them,” she said, softly.

There were two x-rays in the envelope and she held them up to the light. However, she couldn’t see all that well so she stood up with them. It was awkward but she was able to make it to her feet with them in her hands.

Holding them over the lamp, the break in the fingers became evident and she found herself wincing. “Ouch, that couldn’t have felt good.” She traced the break with one of her fingers and couldn’t believe that Lex’s hand looked as good as it did. The doctor really must have been amazing.

She placed the x-rays back in the envelope and then sat back down on the couch next to Lex. “Thanks,” she said, “I didn’t bring any of my own but I’ve got some scars if you’re interested.”

Lex chuckled and picked up his plate again, resuming his meal. “The glory days of high school reporting took their toll on you, I take it?”

He'd known more than she would think about her little adventures back in Smallville. It was incredible to think what they'd all gone through during their time in that supposedly dull and do-gooding small town. But somehow, the resident town hero had always been around to save the day. Except that one time where she'd crashed out of the window in the manor. Lex had forgotten all about that, until now. She'd been what, sixteen? Fifteen? It seemed like ages ago.

“You've come a long way from Smallville,” he stated silently, trying to fit the images of the girl he'd known then and the woman he knew now together.

It was still the same person and she did still have some of the same traits, but at the same time, he couldn't imagine this Chloe being bested by some thugs that were trying to make a career in burglary.

Chloe got a little more comfortable on the couch, pulling her legs up under her and said, “I’d like to think so.” She thought about how headstrong she was back then. And how she would go into any situation without thinking it through. She was better at that now. If physical danger was involved, that was. With her personal life, it seemed as if she were just making different mistakes that still took a toll on her.

“It’s amazing, looking back, at just how stifled I felt there.” She shook her head. “I don’t think I really came into my own until I got out of dodge, so to speak.” Chloe remembered her first few weeks at college. She had met people that weren’t as self centered as her two ‘best friends’ from Smallville. It had opened her eyes to the fact that friendship was a two way street and had a great deal to do with respect. Which was possibly why she didn’t speak to Lana or Clark all that much.

“And, of course, my insurance rates went down without having to be in the hospital every few weeks after running into a meteor freak.” She and Lex were sitting far enough away so she could stretch out her leg a little. She put her foot on the couch and made sure that she wasn’t going to be flashing Lex before saying, “This was the last scar I got from one of them.” Chloe ran her nail over the crescent shape divot on her ankle. “Bitch had some long nails.”

Lex looked down at the scar, wondering for a moment what kind of scene would have ended in that scar. It wasn't too big, but still plainly visible.

“The last, but probably not the worst,” he wagered.

He himself hadn't gotten scarred more than twice after the meteor shower had hit. It took a lot more after that event than a simple cut or a bad scratch. In fact, the only two times he'd gotten scarred would probably have killed any normal person. Lex absentmindedly reached out to touch the scar on his left shoulder, where the knife had sunk in when Jude had stabbed him at Club Zero. The other scar was from the plane crash that had stranded him on the deserted island. Low on his back. It was a miracle his spine had been uninjured.

“I haven't thought about Smallville much since I left it. I was just glad to finally be out of there,” he commented.

“I can see why,” Chloe said. She knew that no matter what Lex did, in the eyes of the townspeople he would always be up to no good. Even his own proclaimed best friend had turned his back on him. Though she didn’t often talk to Clark, when she did and happened to mention Lex, Clark always changed the topic of conversation.

“In fact, I don’t know how you managed to stay as long as you did,” she said, honestly. “The place didn’t seem to bring you much luck in any area of your life. I often thought that you had to be a masochist. I told that to Lana once,” she said offhandedly, “and then regretted it when I had to explain what it was to her.”

Chloe chuckled as she remembered the offended and disgusted look on the girl’s face. “I think that I made her brain break a little with that one.”

Lex couldn't help the bark of laughter that escaped him as he imagined the uptight and innocent by nature Lana Lang getting a lesson in the intricacies of masochism. That must've been a Kodak moment.

“I can assure you, it wasn't masochism that kept me there for as long as I stayed,” he said, putting his half empty plate away. Somehow he wasn't all that hungry anymore. “It had more to do with the promises I made. I tried to keep them and in a way, I did. That's when I was free to leave.”

And not a minute too early. He'd been glad to be back in Metropolis, even if nothing other than business had waited there for him. At least he'd been back in the big city and hadn't had to deal with freaks trying to kill him and giving him multiple concussions every other week. These days, his migraines came simply from too much work and dealing with alimony legalities.

Chloe studied him closely, thinking that it was her right to do so because Lex had taken the opportunity to do it to her numerous times throughout the night. Lex really was a conundrum wrapped in an enigma. His word of all things had kept him in Smallville. She was sure if she had taken a poll of the residents of the town, they would have chalked it up to either wanting to make money or wanting to cause the downfall of good people.

If anyone had told her when they had first met that she’d end up on his couch, eating Chinese food and having what for Lex must be a personal conversation she would have given them a list as to why it was impossible. But, she would have secretly hoped that they were right.

“But by then, the town had already done its damage on you,” she said. It was true. He’d been beaten around even more than she had. He’d also met his first wives there. “No matter how far away we get from that place, it’s always going to leave its mark.”

Her fingers traced over a few scars that dotted her knees. “And I’m not just talking about these kinds.”

Lex nodded, memories shooting rapid fire through his brain. So much had happened before he'd finally been able to leave that town and get away for good. He'd avoided all things Smallville like the plague for the first year after he'd left.

“True, but I choose not to think to deeply on it,” he stated flatly before getting up from the couch.

For him, the discussion about Smallville was ended at this point. That was the past and he was a man that liked to think of the future, be it immediate or further down the road. Grabbing the remote control, he pushed the yellow button that opened a cabinet inside the wall, next to the TV.

“So,” he started as he walked towards the selection of movies he kept there. “Comedy, Action, or Drama?”

Watching Lex close down was an interesting thing. Chloe could actually see when he had made the decision to not discuss it. That was his right and Chloe wasn’t about to harp on it. Especially since he had already been so honest with her. She didn’t think that Lex was used to talking to anyone like this.

“Definitely not drama,” Chloe said as she leaned over and started to clean up their dinner. “We’ve already had enough of that today.”

‘How about action being that I’m not going to get any.’ Chloe looked back up at Lex and knew she hadn’t spoken aloud when he showed no reaction to the words. God, she was going to have to get laid sometime soon just so she didn’t jump him. She wasn’t used to just being with a man and not doing anything with him.

“Action is fine by me,” she said as she placed their paper plates in the bag that the food had come in. She tied the handles of the bag and placed it under her arm before grabbing the containers of the food. Once she was in the kitchen, she said, “Plus, there will most likely be gadgets that you can drool over.”

After throwing out the bag in the garbage and putting the food containers in the fridge, she went back into the living room. Lex was already on the couch, one arm draped around the back of it, so she assumed that he had made his selection.

Lex looked back at her over his shoulder feeling a little strange that she'd so naturally went for his kitchen and cleaned up the leftovers. It hadn't occurred to him what she was doing until he'd turned from the cabinet to see an empty couch table and heard the noise from the kitchen. However, he didn't comment on it.

Instead he said, “I thought Dr. No would be good. It's quite amusing if you think about it, what was considered high-tech back in the sixties in comparison to today.”

He actually had the entire James Bond collection, even though he couldn't stand the later movies. Somehow the other actors following Sean Connery and Roger Moore lacked the certain flair that the character of James Bond was supposed to uphold. It was sad that the younger the movies, the crappier they got.

“It really is very disappointing that we don’t have hovercrafts yet.” Chloe thought of all of the movies that were set in the ‘future’ that were now decades old. She could think of dozens of movies that made the future look so high tech that it was ridiculous.

“And, it’s really disappointing that they thought George Lazenby would be a good Bond.” She shook her head. “I mean, did they not do screen tests back then?”

Lex watched the movie out of the corner of his eye, but turned to Chloe. He'd seen the flick often enough to not need to pay attention to every detail.

“At least George Lazenby wasn't as bad as Timothy Dalton,” he shrugged. “Or the newest rendition, what was his name? He's even worse than Pierce Brosnan was in the two before that.”

It still amazed him that they wouldn't drop the story after more than 40 years. Incredible to think a character could live that long without ever aging. And nobody seemed to care about it. Neither the writers, nor the audience. The original James Bond would be walking on a cane by now. The mental image of a hunched old man still fighting his evil nemesis and trying to save the world made him smirk.

“Wait, hold on a minute,” Chloe turned more fully towards Lex as the drama unfolded on the television. “You didn’t like Pierce Brosnan?” She had thought that he had done a great job. Maybe it was because her father had made her watch repeats of Remington Steele when she grew up and he had always thought that Brosnan would make a good Bond.

When the actor had been cast, Chloe remembered how ridiculously proud her father had been. Almost as if he had been the one personally to discover the actor.

“I mean, no one is Connery, that goes without saying. But, I think Brosnan was the best of the rest.” She thought of the other people who had played Bond. “Dalton was horrible, as you mentioned and Roger Moore didn’t stand a chance because he replaced Connery.” Chloe gestured to the screen where the man in question now appeared. She sighed like a girl and said, “No more talking, he’s talking and he’s got an accent so he’s better than either of our voices.”

Lex had just opened his mouth to retort that if he wanted to watch Remington Steele, he'd turn on cable, but Chloe's order and her hand on his arm while she stared transfixed at the man on screen. Now granted, Sean Connery was the best Bond, but that was no reason to get carried away. And because of an accent? Now that was just bloody ridiculous.

Shaking his head to himself, he leaned forward to grab the water bottle and took a drink, turning to the movie. Personally, Lex was waiting for the evil nemesis to show up. He still contemplated getting a cat. Definitely not a Persian though. Those had an annoying tendency of leaving hair all over the place. Maybe a Sphinx cat? But then again the implications of that were just too plentiful for the press to ignore. And he didn't want to become the bald guy with the bald cat in the neighborhood.

Casting another glance sideways at Chloe, a small grin curved on his lips as she was practically salivating over a young Sean Connery in a well tailored suit driving a specially equipped Aston Martin.

“Need a tissue,” he enquired in a low voice.

She gave him one of her glares before answering him. “You’re just jealous because you don’t have an accent,” she said, haughtily.

“And, no, I do not need a tissue,” she lightly slapped Lex on the arm for emphasis and put her hand back in her lap. “It’s not as if we’re watching Darby O’Gill and the Little People,” she muttered under her breath.

Lex brows scrunched together at the last muttered comment. “Darby O'Gill?”

He had no clue what or who Darby O'Gill was and from the look that she got on her face when she thought about it, Lex wasn't sure he wanted to know. Still, he was curious. That had always been one of his faults. Incapable of knowing only half of something or bits and pieces. He had to know the whole picture, the entire story.

“I'm assuming an accent is involved there as well,” he prodded.

“Oh, Lex, not only is there an accent but…” she paused for dramatic effect, “he sings.” The movie was not of a very good caliber but he was even younger than in the Bond movies and the singing really did turn her into a puddle.

“The singing makes up for the leprechaun and banshees that chase them in a carriage at the end.” Talking about the movie made her realize how crappy it sounded. But, she didn’t care. Chloe, however, didn’t mention the tight pants that Connery wore in the movie…Lex didn’t need to hear about that.

Apparently he in Chloe’s explanation was Sean Connery. Lex didn't know that the man had ever done what sounded like a musical or some sort of children's movie. He glanced at the TV and tried to imagine the man that was just breaking the neck of a villain on the screen being chased by leprechauns and singing. It didn't fit.

“Okay,” he said slowly, now trying to get rid of the mental images that his mind kept throwing at him. “You realize that the mental images you just provoked could make a psychiatrist very happy in the near future.” And probably put three of their kids through college, ivy league at that.

“I didn’t write the movie, Lex. I only saw it every St. Patrick’s Day.” When she was younger it was one of the few movies that could keep her out of trouble. Her father actually went through two copies of the tape as she grew up.

“Besides, I’m sure that there is more in my life that a head shrinker would have a better time with than a movie that I used to love as a kid.” Commitment issues, abandonment issues, trust issues…issues abound.

It occurred to Chloe that maybe it wasn’t such a bad idea to go and see someone. That way she’d have a medical opinion on whether she really was crazy or not. However, the shrink would probably just sit there and ask her what she thought everything meant. Which would cause her to get violent.

Lex's brow quirked as he looked at Chloe once more. “I was actually referring to myself. I keep imagining James Bond fleeing from Leprechauns while singing and dancing a jig,” he dead-panned.

But it was interesting that Chloe thought she had reason to see a professional. He'd been once, required part of the whole Anger Management thing back in Smallville. God the woman had infuriated him to no end. Of course he hadn't let it show and simply evaded any questions with talk about modern art and classic cars. Needless to say, by the end of the session the woman had probably been ready to find therapy herself.

“Do you really think it'd do any good to talk about Smallville with someone who's not from around there?”

Chloe chuckled as she imagined the look on a doctor’s face if she told them about boys who tried to suck the heat out of her or kill her with a floating chainsaw. “Yeah, that might not be the best idea unless I wanted to have an extended,” she made quote marks with her fingers, “rest.”

“But I’m sure that you wouldn’t be surprised to hear that some of my issues have nothing to do with Smallville.” She thought about her statement for a minute. Chloe knew that the place where you grew up, and the people that one came into contact with, shaped who you were. “Well, at least not directly,” she amended.

She might actually have to seek some help because the fact that she was discussing her mental health with Lex while watching a James Bond movie didn’t seem all that odd.

Lex nodded silently, understanding or at least believing to understand where she was coming from. It didn't always take mutants in Smallville to influence you. Or well, not the kind of mutant that tried to kill you in any case. He still wasn't sure about Clark, but he'd laid that case to rest when he'd left Smallville for good. The only mystery left unsolved in his life.

“I don't believe that therapy holds much sense, though. Not for someone like you. After all if you'd found a solution to your problems you wouldn't need help.” He remembered his first and definitely last therapy session. “And therapists have the annoying habit of throwing your own questions back in your face trying to push you into finding your own answers.”

Chloe slumped down in the couch and said, “I think that that would drive me insane. And, really, what’s the point of that? Theoretically, if someone already knows the answer to what’s wrong with them, they wouldn’t be there.”

It wasn’t that Chloe didn’t believe that therapy could help people. She just thought that it wouldn’t help her. She was far too defensive and stubborn to listen to someone who assumed that they could help her without really knowing her. Chloe was more of the school of thought that talking it out with people who actually knew you did more good.

Course, that assumed that you had people that could help you out with that. She spoke with her old college roommate over the phone every week, but Cheryl and she hadn’t lived in the same city for years so it made their friendship a little difficult.

Especially since the other woman thought she knew exactly what was wrong with Chloe. She didn’t want to get involved in a real relationship because she could get hurt again….defense mechanism….blah blah blah.

“Exactly what I'm saying,” Lex said, turning back to the TV when a particularly loud crash of metal caught his attention.

Damn, James Bond had just ruined his car. The first in a line of many. Lex could understand very well the frustration of Q that seemed to build up continuously through the movies. He'd be pretty pissed if someone ruined his toys, too.

The face that Lex pulled at the destruction of such an expensive, tricked out car had Chloe smiling at him. Lex, for all of his breeding, education and etiquette could be such a guy sometimes. Especially when it came to cars or gadgets.

For a moment, Chloe could see Lex being the fussy Q, trying to explain to Bond why the car was important and why he couldn’t very well tank another one. However, she could also see Lex getting such an instruction from someone and not heeding it in the slightest.

Lex turned back towards her and narrowed his eyes when he saw her smiling again. “I swear that I’m not thinking of you and your evil cat again. Cross my heart.” Chloe did the appropriate motion as she spoke.

Lex kept his narrowed gaze on her, trying to fathom where her mind could have veered off to this time. “And still I get the feeling it is some sort of scenario involving me in a way that is utterly embarrassing which would make it all the more amusing for you.”

It was incredible to watch how Chloe's mind worked, but Lex was sure if he tried to follow her line of thoughts for too long he'd probably get nothing other than a headache and a very jumbled confusing mess of mostly useless information. Still it was amusing none the less.

“And my cat won't be evil. It will just have to suffer its life as a misunderstood genius like its owner.”

Chloe repositioned herself again. She was finding it difficult to get comfortable. The couch was perfect but she didn’t want to sprawl herself over it in an undignified manner. But, that was progressively getting more difficult because she was feeling more comfortable around Lex.

By the time she was done, she ended up sitting cross legged, mindful to keep her skirt carefully positioned. “And I’m sure that it will be just as humble and demure as its owner, too.”

She looked over at the TV and saw Bond chasing the bad guys through the streets in his new toy. “Will Thor get a replica of that so he can zoom around the house in it?” While Lex would not be the type to dress his animals, she could see him making a remote control luxury car for fun and sticking the cat in it if he got drunk or bored enough.

Lex looked at Chloe completely askance. “Well first of all, I don't think I would ever name a cat Thor, and second of all,” he trailed off as he imagined a cat in a tuxedo, zooming around the house in a miniature Aston Martin.

Of course he'd have to buy the rights from the corporation to be allowed to build a miniature of it and it could get a bit tricky to put together all the specials that Q had built into the original model, but with a little creativity and a lot of detail work with the soldering gun. He could buy one of those little battery run cars and use the motor from that. The toy store in the mall opened a whole new world of possibilities if he thought about it.

“Hmm.” Getting the cat to feel comfortable in the car would be another matter, he'd have to fiddle around and replace the seats with some kind of cushion that would allow the animal to sit comfortably.

“Oh my god,” Chloe sat up even straighter and pointed at Lex, “You are totally building the car in your head right now aren’t you?”

Nadia_

28th August 2005, 18:55

That was just too funny!!!! Thank you guys!

I LMAO trough the whole thing! The image of Lex with a Sphinx cat is priceless!

Their banter is soo THEM! The talk about Smallville and the fact that they think the same things and don't even know it!

He was actually thinking of building the car!

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

Oh God, if get killed it's all your fault! My roomate just woke up and it's looking at me my with a "you giggle again and I will use some very sharp objects in you" face. I'd better hide...

planetcal

28th August 2005, 19:56

Hahahahaha Lex thinking of his future cat in a tux driving around in the Aston Martin!!!! That's so funny he was actually thinking about making the car!
Chloe's reaction to the TV effect was hilarious too.
Great update!!!

kimmie

28th August 2005, 19:57

LMAO, thinking of Lex with a bald cat!!!

Loved the banter between them but I want some smoochies sooooo BAD!!!!!!!!!!!!

Another Excellent Update...

kimmie

Krysia

28th August 2005, 21:08

“Oh my god,” Chloe sat up even straighter and pointed at Lex, “You are totally building the car in your head right now aren’t you?”

I just love the way Lexes mind works in this fic. I think it's just so sweet that he has his little gadgets. I also enjoyed the fact that he is begining to think about how CHloe is different from the women he got "involved" with before. It gives me hope for the future :)
I loved the whole Bond discussion and I can't wait to see what kind of a cat he will get and how Chloe will react to seeing it. more, please.

BellaMR

28th August 2005, 21:36

I love the conversations between Lex and Chloe. I don't think I can ever get enough of the way you two write. However, if they do want to use their tongus for other purposes - how about ice cream? Yummm ... with chocalate syrup and whipped cream. . . definate possibilities

darkangel

29th August 2005, 03:30

That was just funny..esp the last line. Great update. Come back soon.

star del mar

29th August 2005, 06:32

Their conversations absolutely boggle my mind sometimes, lol, because I picture what they're talking about and I can't help but die laughing. That was too great, a cat zooming around the house in a miniature Aston Martin. I love seeing Chloe and Lex so comfortable around each other, a chatty chapter suits me just fine :) Update again soon!

Steph*

meg20

29th August 2005, 14:10

:rofl: I like that Lex thought about the same thing as Chloe, but he definitely went too far!

sylvia

29th August 2005, 16:20

He still contemplated getting a cat. Definitely not a Persian though. Those had an annoying tendency of leaving hair all over the place. Maybe a Sphinx cat? But then again the implications of that were just too plentiful for the press to ignore. And he didn't want to become the bald guy with the bald cat in the neighborhood.
Lex's thoughts about the cat and the car and the gadgety bits are just priceless! This is definitely a fascinating new angle to our favourite misunderstood genius you've developed here. I hope Lex actually does follow through on his crazy plans, just to see how Chloe reacts to it. In fact I'm envisioning them arguing over what kind of cat to get when they move in together... and hey, maybe Lionel will be allergic!

Speaking of Lionel, does Celeste have listening devices planted in Lex's home too? I'd love to see the proud fathers' reactions to how well their children are doing together.

Update soon!

hfce

29th August 2005, 18:35

:rofl: That was to funny. He can call the car the Catmobile. :rofl: This update was just to good for words. :cake: :rofl:

Hope :rofl:

angelines

31st August 2005, 03:51

what's next, can't wait

SinnerSaint

31st August 2005, 04:51

Okay , Lex totally needs to get the cat and make the car. Really. He can do it. I know it's possible. I know this because if I can make a mini row boat for my lizard , Lex can make a mini car for his cat.

FroggyJump

31st August 2005, 07:04

I really enjoyed the interaction between Lex and Chloe at the house, it was good to see that their friendship is able to grow without them being completely in control of the progression. I sure many can identify with how Mai felt over the phone. You had me laughing and sighing at their behaviour. I loved that Lex was indulging in the idea of the car. good additions.

Gemkat5

1st September 2005, 02:53

these last two chapters were fabulous!!!! I loved the near escape from the reporter, the shoeless walk to the house, the empty backyard, and lets not forget the near run down from the nieghborhood kids!

They are already so comfortable with each other that they haven't even realized "how" comfortable yet. love it. and I think a siamese cat would be perfect for Lex, I hear that they are very tempermental and usually are loyal to only 1 person.

can't wait to see how Chloe is going to get home... call a cab, Lex drive her, or.....does she fall asleep on that comfy couch and he simply wakes her in the morning to take her to work with him! :D (yea, that'll be good for the daddy's report!)

great updates, post again soon!

Thaís

2nd September 2005, 11:22

Where are the rest?!?! There are a rest, right?!?! Right?!?!
Ok... Breathing in, and out, in, and out...
And there's going to definitely be something happening between them in the near future, right?? And yes, I mean very, very near future!!!!
Well, sorry... It's just that the story is so great I can't get enough of it...
So out with the new chapters as in, right now, or I'll have to, to, damn, I'll have to just sit around and wait patiently for it...

vardaquareien

3rd September 2005, 18:50

Buahahahahahaaa!!!!

You know the funniest thing about this chapter? I keep picturing you two coming up with the ideas and discussing evil genius Lex and his vehicularly advanced feline. *dies laughing* Then I'm imagineing the two of you explaining to a shrink about the infamous supervillain Lex Luthor who's really just a misunderstood geek who does weird things with his pets. You're then forced to discover for yourselves why & how you came up with this!

*takes deep breath* Yes, in case you haven't worked it out yet I'm clearly as insane as you two are... and incidently loved the update ;)

BlueSabby

3rd September 2005, 19:24

A/N:Sabby: Here be the next update. More talking, and then...well... guess you'll get to see the end of the evening *g* Enjoy and feedback is Always Always appreciated!

A/N: Blue: Here's the final part of their little chat. More cat stuff and other interesting points of conversation. Enjoy.

Lex opened his mouth and she said, “Don’t even try to deny it. You were even probably thinking of what kind of small missiles you could attach to the car to get the Martinsen kids out of Thor’s way.”

That would be a fight that Chloe would pay to see. A little Siamese cat in an Aston Martin racing after the two kids on their bikes, mini missiles and rocks being hurled in every direction. All the while Lex watching and sending Thor messages through a little mic that he would have installed in the car.

“I hadn't even thought of that,” he answered automatically. “But the idea of building a model car like that,” he grinned to himself, “Sounds like fun.”

Taking a drink from his water he contemplated some more, not caring what Chloe would think. She already knew he was a geek, so what could be the harm. “I mean think about it, a fully functioning mini James Bond car. I could get the missiles from the toy store in the mall. And the turning license plates aren't that hard to come by either. I could probably add those rotating blades in the front too, the Simmon's boy can use the car to trim the edges of the lawn.”

The cat didn't necessarily need to be driving the thing, it could use it as a daybed or something. And when had he'd decided that he'd really get a cat? Well, the same moment he'd decided to take a drive to the mall and call the CEO of Aston Martin. Thankfully, he was not only a special client, he was also quasi friends with the man, so it shouldn't be too difficult to get the permission to built his own James Bond car in miniature.

“You are very cute right now. Are you sure you don’t need glasses cause that would really complete your geek outfit.” Chloe was already trying to remember when Lex’s birthday was. She thought it was in a few months so if he didn’t have a cat by then….

Of course, a pure bred Siamese would not be cheap. But, it would be worth it to see Lex actually toiling over the car that he was talking about.

Chloe really shouldn’t have been surprised that Lex was like this. She vaguely remembered that he collected….something…something a little geeky….but, it was just outside of her memory right now. It wasn’t coins, that she knew.

“And I’m beginning to worry about my own geekdom because this is actually sounding like a good idea to me.” She poked Lex in the knee with her foot. “See what kind of bad influence you’re having on me. Soon enough I’ll be talking about positrons and valence electrons with orgasmic passion.”

Lex caught the foot that had been poking at him around the ankle and held it captive, lest she try that again. “I can assure you that I am not getting remotely turned on by the intricacies of higher atom physics,” he shot back. “And just for your information, with that attitude, you'll not be allowed to drive the Aston, ever.”

Yes, it was immature, but if she insisted on ridiculing him for his hobbies, then she wouldn't get to play with his toys and that was that. Before he could stop it, his own innuendo caught up with him and suddenly he was thinking of Chloe in combination with a whole different set of 'toys' in his possession.

That thought could lead to nothing good, however, so he pushed it away and focused back on the easy banter. He was in it for friendship, not a quick fuck. Chloe was worth more than that. It shocked him once again to see how their initially quite volatile acquaintance had turned into a, for his standards incredibly easy going relationship between almost friends.

After a few attempts to extricate herself from Lex’s grip, Chloe gave up. It was too bad that he had such a firm grip on that ankle because she really needed to poke him again for what he just said.

“That is totally and utterly unfair.” She crossed her arms over her chest to get the full pouting effect going on. “It was my idea in the first place. I’ll sue you for intellectual properties fraud or something like that.”

She could just see Lex explaining that lawsuit to his legal team. Complete with a schematic of the car he intended to build as visual aid to show why it was so important that they didn’t lose the case.

“Plus, I won’t let you use my antique Underwood typewriter, then. There,” she said, feigning pride in herself, “see, how you like them apples?”

Lex's eyebrows furrowed in a frown. “I have the latest edition Apple Powerbook, why would I want to use a typewriter?”

The logic of that statement escaped him completely for the moment, before he even thought about why she'd have such an ancient artifact lying around in her apartment. He tried to remember if he'd seen a computer or a laptop when he'd been there but couldn't recall either being in the small, rather cluttered living room. “You're not writing your articles on that thing, do you?”

“What’s wrong with using a typewriter? Especially an antique one.” Chloe loved old things. Coming up with stories about who had owned them and how they had come into her possession was a favorite, weird past time of hers.

“The past greats could have owned it and used it to write an article that changed the way the cops went after the mob, shown a horrible civil rights violation or something else like that.” She could feel herself getting on her soapbox so she stopped speaking.

“But, no, I don’t write my articles on that.” She scrunched her face up in annoyance. “Patterson won’t let me. Besides, it really would be a bitch for the copy editing department and you don’t want to piss those guys off.”

Lex kept looking at her. For a moment he'd been sure she'd launch into a wild and intricate story about what that typewriter had done and where it could have been back to the time of the American Civil War. Thankfully, she hadn't.

“So you do have an actual notebook, that's good.”

Otherwise, he'd probably have went out and got her one, because there was just no way he'd let someone like her be narrowed down to a simple old type writer. That had to cause frustration and couldn't be very constructive when there wasn't even a chance to remove typos without throwing away the sheet of paper or making a mess of it.

“You still don't get to drive the Aston, though”

“Fine,” Chloe said, turning away from him and pretending to watch the movie. “I didn’t want to drive your stupid, little dumb car with your arrogant, pompous, righteous cat anyway.”

She looked back over at him. “You know no one’s going to insure a cat, right? And it will be quite difficult for him to pass the DMV tests being that he doesn’t have opposable thumbs. Makes filling out those little bubbles on the test difficult.”

Chloe thought that she was doing really well at keeping a straight face. When, not if, Lex did built his little car there wasn’t a doubt in her mind that he’d let her try it. Or else he’d pay. And dearly at that.

Lex watched Chloe pretending to sulk, biting down on the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing. “I have ways of resolving such matters without a big hassle,” he stated, aloof.

Turning back to the TV as well, he kept glancing at Chloe out of the corner of his eyes, waiting to see how long it would take before she broke. She did a remarkable job of keeping the laughter at bay, but he could see it anyway, twitching at the corners of her mouth. Not that he was fairing much better in that department. Lex didn't even dare to take a drink, lest his composed expression failed him.

“I have ways of resolving such matters without a big hassle,” Chloe said gruffly in what was possibly the worst impression of Lex to ever have been unleashed. “Why can’t you just say that you’ll have anyone killed that stands in the way of having your kitty drive a car?”

“I can see the headlines now, ‘Luthor Death Threat Based on Pussy,’ the press would have a field day with that one, don’t you think?” Chloe knew that it was crass and way over the line. But, she also knew that Lex was very close to breaking down and laughing and she thought that that might be just enough to push him over the edge.

Lex's brow quirked as he regarded her coolly. “Now, I'd never be so clumsy as to let that get into the press. And I wonder what kind of newspapers you're reading that allow for such crude headlines.”

He was still trying to fight the laughter and damn if he'd break first. Not an option. She'd be the first to succumb and that was the final word.

“Well,” Chloe said, stringing out the word as she looked at him, “I wouldn’t exactly call them newspapers. They have many more pictures than words.” She pretended to ponder something. “But the words that they do use are rather interesting.”

Chloe did her best to look embarrassed about what she had just said. Which was damn hard. She was also trying to think of a way to make Lex crack. Talking about sex wasn’t going to do it, she supposed.

Lex widened his eyes as he looked at her, faking shock. “Chloe Sullivan reading cheap erotic magazines?” He shook his head slowly, “What would your father say?”

Somehow he got a mental vision of Gabe finding a stack of those magazine's under a teenaged Chloe's bed. The mental image of Gabe's face turning first puce then bright red, trying to deal with the implications made it that much harder not to laugh.

Chloe picked up her water and took a long pull off of it before turning back to Lex. “He wouldn’t be surprised anymore. Trust me on that one.” Chloe thought about how less sheltered her father had become in regards to what her life was truly like in the past few years.

Lex might not believe it but she had gone through a rebellious phase when she was younger. She hadn’t kept any part of her life secret from her dad and she was certain that she’d taken some years off of his life due to it.

“The videos might surprise him, though,” she said in an off handed manner.

Well that effectively killed the laughter bubbling up inside him. Chloe had porn. She wasn't kidding. Somehow that didn't fit with the image he'd had of her. Granted he'd not thought of her as anything remotely innocent, the woman was 26 years old for crying out loud, but porn videos?

“You never cease to amaze me.”

“I try,” she said in a casual manner. Lex’s eyes were boring into her and she could tell that he was trying to plot his next move. Or maybe he was trying to figure out if she was fucking with him or not. Either one worked just fine for her.

She picked up her bottle of water and took another pull on it. She placed it in her lap and ran her finger around the open neck of it. If the horrible innuendo of what she was doing to the bottle didn’t get a laugh out of Lex, then she didn’t know what would.

The next step would be to run the bottle over her neck and pout that it was hot in there. That might send him careening off of the couch, though.

Lex's eyes moved from her face down to the bottle, watching the movement of her hand over the smooth neck. Slowly drifting his gaze back up he tried to push the implications to the back of his mind. His thoughts had strayed to the gutter for a moment and it was definitely not acceptable.

“And here I thought women had no interest in such movies,” he commented offhandedly.

It was high time to change the topic. Somehow the joke wasn't one anymore and he didn't quite care if Chloe still found it hilarious. This was heading in a direction that Lex didn't want. He'd need to go out soon and hook up with someone, get laid, maybe then he wouldn't get the occasional inappropriate thoughts towards Chloe anymore.

The snort that escaped her definitely wasn’t planned. She was going for sex kitten and that noise didn’t fit with the picture. However, she’d had this debate too many times with all of the men that she knew to still not laugh at their puritanical thoughts about women.

“I guess you thought wrong, Lex.” She made sure to look him directly in the eyes. “Women have sexual needs just as much as men do. Some of us don’t flaunt them in public but that doesn’t mean that we don’t indulge in them or take care of ourselves in private.”

Apparently, the fates weren't on his side as far as topic changed went and now she'd gotten him wrong again. So now he had to explain. Great.

“I never doubted that, believe me,” And he really didn't want to get into that too deeply. “I just read somewhere that women tend to go less for the crude movies and seem to lean more towards the written word, not necessarily cheap romance novels, but something along that variety.” Sometimes the internet was horrifically fascinating, especially after checking the bookmarks Skylar had accumulated on the computer during her stay.

Chloe could tell that this was making Lex uncomfortable. He wasn’t giving any outward appearance but there was something to his tone of voice. And, it wasn’t fair of her to do so, especially in his home. She was a guest, he had trusted her enough to bring her here and she wasn’t going to make him regret that.

She cleared her throat and put the bottle back down on the table. “I guess that it depends on the woman.” When one of the crazily proportioned Bond women appeared on screen, Ursula something or other, Chloe commented, “But I would guess that all men are more visual.”

When another crazy car came on screen, Chloe noticed that Lex sat up even straighter. She laughed at the though of breasts doing nothing for Lex while chrome made him literally sit up and take notice. “Even where women aren’t involved,” she added.

Lex jerked his gaze back from the screen to Chloe, “Pardon?”

He'd been trying to find a way to change the topic and in hope of something turned his attention to the TV and then the new and improved Aston came on screen. It had grabbed his entire being for a moment as he'd wondered if he could build the extra additions into the miniature model as well.

”You just proved my point entirely,” she said, smiling at him. “A car comes on screen and I’m sure the world just got sucked away and all you heard was white noise. The women of Metropolis would love to know that the best way to get your attention would be to get an Aston grill and have that implanted in them instead of other things.”

“Course, some of them might think that it makes them look fat.” And, there were some women who wouldn’t even be able to hold up a tire because they were so emaciated.

Lex chuckled, glad that the conversation had turned on another topic. It was true, these days a car could get his attention faster than many women. What did that say about him, he wondered.

“Well, it's not just any Aston, it's the James Bond version,” he said grinning and shrugged. That had to explain it, right?

Sadly, he'd never get away with turning his own Aston Martin into that improved version. There were some things that even a Luthor couldn't buy. But soon enough he'd have his own miniature and that would be enough.

“Riiight,” Chloe said, “that’s an excellent point, Lex. How could that have escaped my attention?” She looked back at the screen and noticed the digital clock that hung on the wall. She hadn’t realized that that was the time.

She wasn’t sure how far away they were from the heart of Metropolis but she knew that they were at least thirty minutes away from her place. And, she had an early meeting with her editor in the morning.

“The time has also escaped my attention,” she said, nodding at the clock. “I’ve got to get going, Lex.” She felt disappointed that their evening was going to have to be cut short.

Lex looked at his wrist watch, his eyebrows hitching up as he noticed that it was a good deal past midnight already. Damn.

“Of course,” he answered, still not believing they'd spent the better part of the day together without him noticing where the time went. He'd be buried in work the next day. “Let me just get my keys and I'll drive you home.”

Chloe got up and attempted to keep Lex in his seat. “It’s not necessary. I can just get a cab to take me home. I’m sure that you’ve got an early morning, too. By the time you drive me back and then get back here…” she trailed off as Lex stood up.

“Alright,” Lex shut off the TV and turned to pick up the cordless next to him. “But at least, let me pay for the taxi.” It wasn't really a request, since Lex would do it one way or the other, but he could make an effort for Chloe's benefit.

He probably wouldn't get to sleep much anyway, being that he was still wide awake and if Chloe hadn't noticed what time it was, he had a feeling he'd have been keeping the conversation going until the break of dawn. Huh, how long had it been since he'd had someone to do that with?

The tone of Lex’s voice let Chloe know arguing with him would only waste her breath and get them both annoyed at one another. Which hadn’t happened in…..well, she was going to count the hours and then realized that their last few meetings hadn’t involved one fight. Would wonders never cease?

“Ok, Lex,” she said. “But that means that I get to pay for drinks when you meet me at the Palladium bar tomorrow.” The quid pro quo was going well for them so she figured she’d keep up the game.

“Or, if you can’t meet me then, next time,” she said with a stern look.

Lex grimaced, but not because of the offer. “'Fraid I won't be able to make it tomorrow.” There was no chance he'd get out of the office before 9 pm with everything he'd left on his desk today and after that, going out would be the last thing he needed. “But we'll definitely keep it in mind. Maybe Saturday?”

He was already dialing the number for an operator. “Yeah, put me through to the taxi service closest to Park Lane, yeah in Whitman Heights.”

As he waited to be put through he looked back up at Chloe for confirmation on the rain check.

“Saturday is….” She thought about her day. She and her father were supposed to spend it together. “No good,” she finished. “Its father/daughter day,” she said by way of explanation.

“So, I see your Saturday and raise you a Sunday.” Before Lex could answer her he gave his address to the cab company. It was so silent in the room that she heard them inform Lex that the cab would be there in three minutes. It must have already been in the neighborhood.

Lex hung up the phone and put it back in the cradle. He looked back up at Chloe with a smile and inclined his head in agreement.

“Alright, Sunday it is. I'll pick you up around nine,” he offered, making it more of a question in case she wanted to meet earlier, or later.

Nine was good for her. “Nine sounds good,” she said, enthusiastically. A little too enthusiastic for her own liking.

Lex walked her to the door and she picked up her shoes from where she had left them when entering the house. She heard a beep from outside and Lex opened the door for her. “That was quick,” she commented.

Lex cast a glance out of the window to see that the cab was in deed already waiting in front of the house. “Okay, see you Sunday then. And get home safely.”

He pulled his wallet from his back pocket and took out another hundred, folding it up quickly in a way that hid the amount before he pressed it into Chloe's hand. “Just give the driver that and tell him to wait with the light on, until you're in the house,” he said sternly.

For some strange reason he was already having second thoughts about letting her drive back home alone. Honestly, she was a grown up woman who could quite literally kick a man's ass, so there was no need to worry. But still he had to bite back on ordering her to call him as soon as she got home. Lex explained it away with the fact that he'd just made a new friend and didn't want to loose her already to some strange twist of fate.

“Yes, sir,” Chloe said. But, Lex’s honest concern for her made something in her gut twinge a little. She pushed the thought aside and said, “Thanks for the attempt at dinner and the movie. I had a good time.”

The cabbie honked the horn and Chloe had to forcibly keep herself from yelling something unladylike at him. “I’ll see you Sunday.”

Before she could think about it, she rose up on her toes and went to kiss him. This time, her mouth didn’t come into contact with his cheek. She kissed him chastely on his lips and then said, “Night, Lex,” noticing that her voice was far softer than it had previously been.

“Night.”

The response was more automatic than anything, because strangely Lex couldn't find it in him to move. She'd kissed him. He'd never believed in the ridiculous turn of phrase 'rooted to the floor', but that must be what he was experiencing now, because there was no muscle in his body moving. And she'd kissed him. Not that it had been a grand affair, the kiss and in of itself was so chaste it was barely there, but. She'd kissed him. On the mouth. And now she was walking out of his door and down the driveway and getting into a taxi cab.

Lex's hand went up to his mouth as he closed the front door and turned around to walk back into his living room.

“Huh.”