Part 7
“Okay, calm down,” Clark muttered to himself, “Panicking isn’t going to make it go away.” God, if only it could be that easy. There had to be a more logical explanation… surely? Sighing, Clark realised that there was only one explanation for the strange bouts of sickness, incredible thirst, the fact that he couldn’t even stand the *sight* of tomatoes… that of course and the tiny growth inside him. He was pregnant. That had been a shock to see. He hadn’t even really meant to X-ray himself, he’d just wanted to see… Pregnant! Christ, how could he be… how? Why? Why, why, why?! God, things had been going *so* well between him and Lex for the last couple of months, but how could he possibly tell his lover this? How could he tell anyone?! His parents would freak and Lex… didn’t his lover have enough alien weirdness to deal with? With a groan, Clark flopped back on his bed, grabbing Lex’s boxers, breathing in deeply in the hope that his lover’s scent would make him feel better. It only increased his need to see Lex, take comfort in his lover’s presence. Dimly in the distance, Clark was aware of the phone ringing but it didn’t register until he heard his mother calling. “Clark, honey, it’s Lex.” For a split second he panicked. How could Lex know? “Okay, breathe, he can’t know,” Clark berated himself. “Coming, Mom,” he called back. Heart in his mouth, Clark jogged down the stairs and took the phone from his mother. “Thanks Mom, hi Lex.” *Hi.* Lex smiled at the sound of his lover’s voice. Not that he’d ever admit to being so sappy, he really loved to hear Clark’s voice, especially when they’d been apart, if only for a day. *What’s up?* “Nothing, nothing’s up. What could be up?” Clark babbled nervously. Martha frowned in concern and surprise at her son’s reply and Clark, seeing her look, turned away. *Clark, is something wrong?* Lex asked worriedly. Clark took a deep breath to calm himself. Calm… hah! “No, no, I just feel a little…” *Do you need me to come over?* Lex started to close down his computer programs in readiness. “No!” Clark exclaimed. “I mean, no, it’s okay, Lex.” *Oh.* Lex tried not to let himself sound as hurt as he felt at Clark’s reply. *Okay. You sure?* “Yeah, I’m fine.” Clark winced and hastened to make up for snapping. “Um, yeah, listen I’m coming over later anyway, I’ll be fine.” *Yeah, I know.* Lex smiled, *That’s why I was phoning. Do you think you could stay a little later tonight?* “Uh, let me just check, why?” Clark asked. *I want you to have dinner here tonight,* Lex replied with a grin. They’d been together two months, Lex wanted to do something nice for Clark. Holding the phone to his chest, Clark turned back to his mother. “Mom, can I stay a bit later and have dinner with Lex?” he asked. Martha nodded, “Sure, Clark, I don’t mind as long as your chores are done.” “They are.” Clark smiled at last, “Lex, yeah I can stay.” *Good,* Lex replied warmly, *See you later.* “Bye.” Clark hung up and put the phone down with a sigh. “Clark?” Martha started quietly, “Is something wrong?” “No, Mom, everything’s fine,” Clark lied. “Everything’s all right between you and Lex, isn’t it?” Martha continued, still a little worried. Especially as Clark was avoiding her eyes. “Yes! We’re great, honest Mom, there’s nothing wrong.” Clark tried to reassure her. The longer he stayed there, the more he needed to just bury himself in her arms and sob his heart out, tell her everything… and he just *couldn’t*. Sighing, Martha nodded and watched Clark walk away with a small frown still creasing her brow. @>*~ Clark walked at normal speed over to Lex’s, despite his senses screaming at him to hurry, to go and bury himself in Lex. He needed time to think. At home his mother had been hovering all day, regardless of his assurances that he was fine. Clark still had no idea what he was going to do and he needed Lex *so* badly. Why? Assuming his craving for Lex had developed because of puberty and the need to procreate, why, even after getting pregnant, did Lex still affect him so much? Although admittedly, he had gained a lot of control in the last two months, he still *had* to see Lex at least once a day. God, once he’d had the baby… Clark stopped suddenly. Baby, he was going to have a baby! Awe and horror filled him equally and he looked down, touching his stomach where the baby was growing inside him. He was only sixteen, he was a *guy*. Clark groaned, he just wasn’t prepared for this, how could he be? And what if it happened again? What if the drive to be with Lex increased again after he’d had their baby… Their baby. Clark started to walk again. Wow. He found himself wondering if their child would look like them both. Maybe he, Clark was suddenly certain the baby was a boy, would have red hair like Lex had. He turned into the castle driveway, becoming more and more nervous as he got closer. All this still didn’t help with what he was going to do. He had no idea what he *could* do. There was just no way, *no* way he could tell his lover. Walking into the castle, Clark made his way up to Lex’s office. “Hi, love, I’ll be just a moment,” Lex said, looking up briefly with a smile. “Take your time,” Clark sighed, dropping onto the couch dispiritedly. Frowning, Lex stared at Clark for a moment. His lover looked preoccupied and the fact that he hadn’t come over to the desk for a kiss and a quick sniff like he usually did, worried Lex. “Clark?” Lex saved and closed down his programs, “Is everything okay?” “Hmm?” Clark looked up, he’d been worrying again and trying not to let Lex’s scent affect him. “Oh yeah. I’m good, just a little… I don’t know.” He suppressed a wince. Clark hated lying to Lex. He’d sworn when they’d become lovers that he’d never lie to Lex again, but this was just too big, too much right now. Lex sat down next to his lover and reached out to stroke his cheek in concern. Clark didn’t exactly flinch, but he definitely pulled away a little and Lex swallowed hard against the hurt. “Clark, please, there’s obviously something wrong. You know you can tell me anything, right?” he asked quietly. “There’s nothing wrong!” Clark snapped, the stress and Lex’s acrid scent of worry finally getting to him, “God, I’ve just come from Mom hovering round me all day, I don’t need it from you!” “Clark!” Lex gasped in stunned hurt. “How can you say that? I love you, excuse me for worrying about you.” Clark stared at the floor. He just couldn’t deal with this and now he felt even worse. Not only was he lying and snapping at his lover, but he’d hurt Lex’s feelings too. “I’m sorry,” he whispered, “I can’t… I have to go.” Clark was gone before Lex had a chance to say or do anything and he stared at the empty space on the couch in growing horror. What had just happened? Lex felt a little ill, it just wasn’t like Clark to act like that. Surely… surely he wasn’t having regrets or second thoughts? Apart from the odd argument, they’d been so happy and Lex had been completely confident in Clark’s love for him. Yet, suddenly, he wasn’t so sure. Sitting back on the couch, Lex shut his eyes and tried not to worry. @>*~ Clark ran and ran, thoughtlessly and purposelessly. He just needed to run, get away from everything. Get away from the house, the castle, from Lex and the memory of uncertainty and pain in his lover’s steel-blue eyes. Finally, Clark came to a stop. He couldn’t get over oceans yet, but somehow, he had no doubt that one day he would be able to. He wasn’t worried about where he was either. Since he’d once gotten hopelessly lost in Canada, Clark had studied the geography of North and South America until he knew the position of every town, city, village and road. Collapsing on the beach, Clark pressed the heels of his hands against his eyes, trying to stop the tears, trying to rub away the image of Lex’s expression when he’d snapped at his lover. Time, he just needed time… he hoped. @>*~ The phone ringing startled Lex out of his light doze and he picked up the phone, hoping it was Clark. “Luthor?” *Lex? It’s Martha, is Clark there? It’s getting a little late.* “He’s not home?” Lex asked, worry coming back full force. *No, I thought he was still with you,* Martha said quietly, *Did something happen?* “To be honest, I don’t know,” Lex sighed, “He’d barely got here when he ran off.” *You’re not arguing again are you?* Martha asked carefully. “I don’t know, Martha, I’m sorry. He just, he snapped at me and…” Lex trailed off unhappily. *Oh Lex,* Martha could hear the hurt in the young man’s voice and knew how uncomfortable he was probably feeling talking with her about his problems with Clark. *He’s been a little off today, I’m sure it’s nothing.* Lex sighed, “I hope so. Will you call me when he gets home?” *Of course I will, Lex. Please don’t worry.* “I’ll try, thanks Martha.” Lex hung up. He really hoped it was nothing, but what if it wasn’t? What if something new was happening with Clark? Arguments before had never left him feeling quite so worried, even the time when Clark wouldn’t talk to him for a couple of days. And *now*, Clark was missing, and that was even less like his lover. With a heavy sigh, Lex got up and walked back to his desk. He had to at least try and take his mind off it before he drove himself mad. @>*~ It was three days before Clark returned home. Martha and Jonathan were frantic and Lex had practically moved in he was over so often, waiting, hoping, trying to support the Kents as best he could. He wasn’t just worried anymore, Lex was furious with Clark. Never mind his own hurt and worry over his lover, Clark’s parents were distraught and *none* of them knew what could have precipitated such uncharacteristic behaviour from Clark. Lex had left the house, unable to deal with being strong for the Kents any more, and wandered over to the barn to hide in Clark’s loft for a while. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could cope with just not knowing. Where Clark was, what was wrong… and whether or not Clark wanted him anymore. Sitting on the couch, Lex was startled by sudden footsteps on the stairs. Looking up, Lex’s anger evaporated immediately at the sight of his lover. Clark looked dirty, tired and desperately sad. His clothes were torn in places, stubble made his face look hollow and his eyes were haunted. “Clark,” Lex whispered, “Oh my God, Clark, where have you been?” Thoroughly exhausted and completely miserable, Clark sat down on the couch and buried his face in Lex’s neck, desperately hoping he wouldn’t be rejected. God, he’d missed his lover *so* much. Lex wrapped his arms round Clark and held on tight as his young lover started to cry silently. “Don’t hate me,” Clark sobbed. Lex blinked back tears of his own. “Oh Clark, of course I don’t hate you, you just had me worried sick.” “I’m sorry,” Clark whispered, “I’m so sorry.” “Just tell me what’s wrong, Clark,” Lex said quietly, stroking Clark’s back soothingly, “I can’t help if I don’t know what’s wrong.” “Nothing’s wrong, not really,” Clark whispered, “I just, I got so scared and I couldn’t tell you and I just knew I’d hurt you and…” “Shh love, it’s okay,” Lex said gently, “Why were you scared? You know you can tell me anything, you *know* that.” “I know,” Clark nodded against Lex’s shoulder, “It’s just so… God, I don’t even know how to.” Clark looked up at his lover in desperation. Lex was starting to get a little scared himself now, “Please, Clark, just tell me, please.” Wiping the tears from his face, Clark nodded, but looked away. “I’m pregnant,” he whispered. Lex sat stock still, wide eyed, “Pardon me?” “I’m pregnant, Lex,” Clark repeated fearfully. “Pregnant,” Lex said tonelessly, “But, but Clark, you’re…” “An alien, remember?” Clark almost snapped. “Are you sure?” Lex asked still stunned. “No, I’m sure the sickness, the need to drink vast quantities of water at night and the tiny foetus growing inside me is something else!” Clark did snap this time. He’d spent so long worrying about this, been so scared. He needed Lex to tell him everything was going to be okay. “Don’t get sarcastic with me, Clark,” Lex pulled back angrily, “I’ve spent three sleepless nights mindless with worry about you, trying to stop your parents from falling apart, I think I have the right to be a little shocked.” Clark dropped his head to his knees and hugged his legs tightly, Lex’s anger was turning him on with the electric scent and now really wasn’t the time. Even so, after three, well four days really, apart it was hard going controlling himself. “I’m sorry.” Lex immediately felt bad, but how else could he react? Nothing, not even Clark being an alien, could have prepared him for this. “So am I. Clark, come here, please.” Clark looked up and almost jumped into Lex’s arms. “Are you okay, love?” Lex asked, “You haven’t been looking after yourself, have you?” Clark shrugged, “I don’t know. I’m just so tired and scared. Lex, what are we going to do?” “Start using condoms,” Lex muttered. “Be *serious*, Lex,” Clark pleaded. How could Lex be flippant at a time like this? “Sorry, Clark,” Lex sighed, “I still need to take this in.” He held Clark tightly. Clark was pregnant! They were going to have a baby. Lex hadn’t thought he’d ever be a father, especially after falling in love with Clark. A baby! His and Clark’s. Lex found himself grinning happily. Despite his own upbringing, Lex had always wanted a child, ever since he’d seen his mother holding Julian in her arms for the first time. Clark caught the scent immediately and raised his head. “Lex?” He couldn’t help smiling at the light in Lex’s eyes and the happiness made him smell so good. “Oh Lex, I need…” He dropped a hand to Lex’s groin and pressed gently. Lex moaned quietly, his dick responding even as he struggled for control. They needed to tell Clark’s parents he was home, Clark needed to shower and eat… Clark needed Lex and Lex couldn’t deny that he needed Clark. “God, Clark, just… okay,” he gasped. Clark was already unzipping him and moving to kneel between his legs. “Need,” Clark whispered. He had to at least partially re-mark himself after they’d been apart so long. He needed to feel claimed. Bending his head, Clark gently stroked his cheek against the smooth skin of Lex’s cock, inhaling deeply. He mouthed the leaking tip, tasting the precome, rubbing it into his skin. Lex moaned and Clark glanced up. “Lex?” “Please, Clark, just… please,” Lex panted. At the back of his mind, Lex wondered if Clark’s need was as intense as his own at that moment; but most of him was concentrated on watching those full, soft lips slide down the length of his shaft and the wet heat that encompassed him. Sucking gently on all that wonderfully silky skin and hot, hard length, Clark lowered his head, swallowing when Lex’s cock hit the back of his throat. He worked the shaft with his tongue as he withdrew, then quickly sucked Lex’s cock back down. “God, Clark,” Lex groaned, his hands reaching down to bury themselves in thick, dark hair, clenching convulsively as his hips bucked. The heat of Clark’s mouth moving up and down, the slickness of his tongue and the feel of throat muscles constricting around him, combined with the softly needy expression in Clark’s eyes was too much for Lex. Before he could even gasp a warning, he was coming, hips straining against Clark’s tight grip, rush of pleasure taking over his body. Clark swallowed, moaning quietly at the taste, shuddering as he convulsed with his own climax. Pulling back, Clark lay his head on Lex’s thigh, sighing quietly, listening to his lover recover his breath. Lex stroked his hair gently, then reached over the couch to grab some tissues so that Clark could clean himself up. When Clark was done, Lex pulled him back up and stared at him seriously. “Don’t you ever run away again, you get me? Anything that happens with us, we can talk about, okay?” “Yeah,” Clark whispered, “I’m sorry.” “I know,” Lex smiled again, “I really missed you, love.” Clark pulled Lex into a tight hug. “I missed you so much, I was just…” “I know,” Lex reassured Clark again, “But everything’s going to be okay, you know?” “Promise?” Clark asked in a tiny voice. “Promise,” Lex said with a nod. “Come on, Clark, we need to get you cleaned up and let your parents know you’re okay.” Clark sighed and nodded, “Yeah. Do you think they’ll be mad?” “I was,” Lex said with a raised eyebrow, “Well, until I saw you.” Smiling, Clark took Lex’s hand and pulled him up off the couch. Part 8 Clark didn’t even have time to say a word before he was wrapped in a tight hug from his mother that, invulnerable or not, left him breathless. “Oh my God, Clark, oh my God,” she whispered in fearful relief, “Are you okay? Where have you been?” “I’m so sorry,” Clark breathed, glancing up at his father in desperate apology. “You had us worried sick, Clark. Why?” Jonathan couldn’t be angry in the face of seeing his son home safely, albeit looking worse for wear. “I know, I just couldn’t deal with…” Clark started. “Wait, love. Jon, Martha why don’t you let Clark get cleaned up first? We have something important to talk to you about,” Lex interrupted. “You said you didn’t know anything,” Jonathan said accusingly. “I didn’t,” Lex confirmed. “Wait, how long have you been back, Clark?” Martha asked, pulling back to look in her son’s eyes. “About half an hour,” Clark mumbled guiltily. “What?!” Jonathan exclaimed, “And you couldn’t come and tell us?” “I had to speak to Lex first,” Clark said pleadingly. “Talk!” Jonathan snorted, then frowned at the look the boys exchanged. “Oh no. You’re telling me we were half out of our minds with worry and you stopped to have *sex*?!” Jon glared at Lex. “Clark’s needs come first, Jon, you know that,” Lex said quietly. “I’m sorry, okay? I needed to, it’s been days,” Clark hissed suddenly, storming off to his room. He’d thought they understood how much he needed Lex *all* the time and right now, he needed understanding. Stripping off his clothes, Clark ignored the knock at his door until it became insistent. “What?!” he yelled. “Clark? Can I come in?” Lex called out. “Yes,” Clark sighed, sitting down on his bed. “You okay?” Lex asked quietly, sitting next to him. His lover’s reaction had worried him. “I don’t know,” Clark whined, “It’s just, I mean, it wasn’t like I did it deliberately. I *need* you, don’t they get that yet?” “Clark, from their point of view it was selfish and no, I don’t think they completely understand, love, I’m not sure any of us do really,” Lex said calmly, stroking his arm. “Oh Lex,” Clark sighed, dropping his head onto Lex’s shoulder, inhaling deeply without even realising, “Are they angry?” “No, but they are upset,” Lex said softly, “I think they’ll understand a little better when we talk to them.” “I hope so,” Clark frowned thoughtfully, “They’re going to freak though, aren’t they?” Lex grinned and nodded, “Yeah.” “What’s funny about that?” Clark raised an eyebrow inquiringly, unsure whether or not to feel insulted. “I don’t know, it’s just such a weird situation and Clark,” he quickly put his hand on Clark’s neck, “I don’t mean that in a bad way.” Clark nodded, leaning into his lover’s touch. “I know. You’re happy.” Lex nodded again. “Yeah, I am, love. Aren’t you?” he asked in sudden trepidation, what if Clark wasn’t? “I’m still a little freaked,” Clark admitted, “But yeah, I am too.” Sighing in relief, Lex pulled Clark closer and kissed him softly. “Now then, go get cleaned up, okay?” Lex pushed at his lover gently, “Then we can talk to your parents.” Nodding, Clark stood up, “Can I wear your boxers?" “What, the ones I’m wearing now?” Lex asked with a startled laugh. “Yeah,” Clark smiled ruefully, “I’m going to need them to make it through tonight.” “Okay, are you going to lend me some of yours?” Lex asked with a smirk. “Nope, I like the thought of you going commando.” “I thought you wanted to make it through this evening?” Lex pointed out still smirking. Clark blinked, “Oh. Yeah, maybe you’re right.” “Clark, I was teasing,” Lex’s expression softened, “I don’t mind as long as you’ll be okay.” “Thanks,” Clark said quietly, leaning down for another kiss before disappearing into the bathroom. Lex pulled off his shoes and pants and removed his boxers, putting them on the bed next to him. Then he re-dressed himself and waited for Clark. @>*~ Clark hurried through his shower. Not that he particularly wanted to face his parents, but he didn’t want to be away from Lex for too long. The three days apart had nearly killed him, but he *had* needed the space to think, to come to some sort of acceptance. And now he knew Lex was happy about the baby, Clark felt so much better… stronger. Maybe he could face his parents after all. Feeling more, well not human, but more himself after a shower and a shave, Clark wrapped his towel round his waist and headed back to his room. Lex stared at him. “What?” Clark asked a little defensively. Lex grinned inanely, “You are glowing.” Snorting, Clark dug some clothes out, “Glowing.” “Yeah. Thankfully not literally, but you know what I mean,” Lex said, still grinning. Clark was pregnant. They were going to be dads! It was still sinking in, but damn if he wasn’t getting downright excited. At the moment, he couldn’t give a crap about anyone else, just Clark and the baby. “Yeah, and don’t I feel all feminine now,” Clark groused huffily, sniffing Lex’s boxers before tugging them on. Was it him, or were they tighter than before? “Clark, feminine is not how I’d describe you. Sexy as fuck on the other hand…” Definitely, especially standing there with damply, curling hair and dressed only in Lex’s boxers. Lex tried to control his reaction; if a blowjob in the loft had been a little inappropriate, then sex in Clark’s room with his parents waiting downstairs was out of the question. Sucking in a breath, Clark clenched his fists and gritted his teeth. “Not helping.” “I know, sorry,” Lex grimaced, “Get dressed quickly, I really don’t want to have to explain to your parents why we took so long. Which we will if we stay here much longer.” “Yeah.” Clark nodded. His parents, that thought certainly put a damper on his burgeoning arousal. He speed dressed and opened the door. “Let’s go.” Lex stood and nodded, touching Clark’s arm briefly as he passed his lover, “It’s going to be fine.” “I hope so,” Clark muttered and followed him downstairs. @>*~ Jonathan and Martha looked up from their seats as Lex and Clark descended the stairs. They were worried and upset from not understanding, firstly, Clark’s disappearance and secondly, Clark’s reaction just before. “Clark,” Martha started. “Mom, please,” Clark interrupted, “I need to just talk to you guys, okay? This has been really hard for me to deal with but I’m happy… we’re happy,” he grasped Lex’s proffered hand tightly. “Okay, son,” Jonathan nodded, “Why don’t you both sit down?” Lex sat and gently pulled Clark down with him, putting a supportive arm round his shoulders. “Has something happened?” Martha couldn’t help asking. She so worried, Clark seemed so nervous, hesitant. If it wasn’t for the fact that Lex was virtually exuding happiness in a way she hadn’t seen before, even after Clark had told him he loved him, she’d still be frantic. “Mom, please,” Clark sighed, “Yes, something’s happened, but it’s not bad. I just had trouble dealing with it at first and I felt like I couldn’t tell any of you. That’s why I had to get away for a while, to get my head round it.” “Clark, you still could have called us, let us know you were okay,” Jonathan interjected. “No, I couldn’t,” Clark sighed in exasperation, “If I had, I would have come back before I was ready.” “Ready for what?” Martha asked quietly. “Ready to accept it and tell Lex,” Clark tried to explain. “Not us?” Martha asked with a hurt frown. “Of course you,” Clark resisted actually snapping, “But Lex first, I needed him to be okay with it before I could tell you.” “Clark, please,” Jonathan said frustratedly, “Okay with what?” Taking a deep breath, Clark leaned closer to Lex, who squeezed him gently. “With me being pregnant.” There, he’d said it. And his parents weren’t saying anything. They were staring at him in shock. “P-pregnant?” Martha stuttered, finally reacting, “As in… *pregnant*?” she shrieked. Clark winced. So far, so bad and his father hadn’t even moved, or blinked, in fact Clark wasn’t even sure he was breathing. Martha was blinking, repeatedly. Her son, her little boy was going to have a baby? How? How was that possible? “Oh my God,” she whispered. Suddenly, Jonathan moved, so unexpectedly and quickly that Clark didn’t have a chance to stop him. “You got my son pregnant?!” Jonathan yelled, grabbing Lex by the throat and dragging him from the couch. “Dad!” Clark levered his father’s fingers from around Lex’s neck. “Stop it.” “I’m going to kill you this time, Luthor,” Jonathan growled, struggling in his son’s grip. Clark slapped him and Jonathan gaped at him in shock. “I said stop it, Dad,” Clark said quietly, “It’s not his fault, how could it be? How could we possibly have known?” Jonathan sagged visibly, going white as it really started sinking in. “My God, Clark, you’re only sixteen.” “I know, Dad,” Clark whispered, letting him go. He turned to his lover who was watching them, rubbing his throat. “Are you okay, Lex?” “Yeah.” Lex smiled reassuringly. “I appreciate how much of a shock this is, Jon, Martha, truly I do, and I realise Clark is very young, but we are happy.” “Yeah,” Clark agreed, “C’mon, Mom, you always wanted to be a Grandma.” Grandma? Martha’s breath hitched. Her baby was having a baby. “Oh Clark,” she whispered, standing up to embrace her son, “Oh Clark, a baby.” “Yeah, Mom,” Clark smiled softly, hugging his mother, “A baby.” Jonathan shook his head. “I don’t believe this,” he muttered, “How can you possibly be happy? What about other people, school, and what exactly do you think your father is going to say about this, Lex? I mean really, it’s impossible!” “I realise that,” Lex sighed, putting his hand on Clark’s shoulder to reassure his lover, who suddenly looked distressed. “But I’m sure we can think of something. I have a lot of contacts.” “I’ll bet,” Jonathan snorted. “Not helping here, Dad,” Clark glared at his father, “We could really use your support right now. It’s done and there’s nothing you can do about it.” Sighing heavily, Jonathan sat down. There really was nothing he *could* do, except alienate his son. “Okay, I’m sorry. I can’t say I’m happy for you, not yet, but we’ll work this out as a family.” Jonathan glanced up at Lex at his last words. Lex smiled gratefully at the semi-acceptance. “If it comes down to it, I can take Clark away for a while,” Lex suggested. “Oh, because that won’t look strange,” Jonathan snorted. “I don’t want to go away.” Clark frowned worriedly. “I know, love, but what happens when you start to show?” Lex asked quietly. Clark grimaced. “I don’t know. I wear baggy clothes anyway, couldn’t I hide it?” Martha couldn’t help laughing, possibly a touch hysterically. “No, Clark, you couldn’t; at least not if the pregnancy progresses anything like a human woman’s,” she said. “That’s another thing,” Jonathan started, “How do we even know what’s normal, how long will you even be pregnant?” “And how will you give birth?” Martha asked worriedly. Clark shuddered at the thought. “I don’t know,” he whispered, starting to get upset. “Clark, it’s going to be okay,” Lex said soothingly, “I promised, remember?” “Yeah, but… but what if it isn’t?” Clark sniffed. “Well, you’ve done all right so far and you’ve been working on instinct a lot of the time,” Lex pointed out. “I don’t want anything to go wrong, Lex. I don’t want him to die or be damaged because I don’t know what I’m doing.” Clark was close to tears and Lex took him into his arms. “Him?” Martha asked suddenly. Clark glanced over at his mother and smiled shyly. “Yeah, it’s a boy.” “Oh Clark,” Lex whispered, “Really? A boy?” “Yeah.” Clark smiled at his lover who was staring at him in something like awe. “Well,” Lex cleared his throat, trying to contain his emotions as Clark leaned in to nuzzle his neck. “You see. If you know that already, I’m sure you’ll know what to do when the time comes.” Clark nodded, only half listening as he inhaled the scent of deep love and happiness from his lover. “You smell good,” he whispered. Unable to help himself, Lex lifted Clark’s chin and kissed him. They’d kept displays of affection between them to a minimum around Clark’s parents, especially his father, so it was no surprise to Lex when he was forcibly pulled back. Clark whimpered, then stared up at his father, growling. “Need,” he snarled. Jonathan backed away in shock. He’d never actually seen Clark when he’d lost control before. And Clark was already ignoring him in favour of licking Lex’s neck and pulling at his shirt. “Clark,” Lex said sharply, “Clark, not now, not here.” Whimpering again, Clark shook his head, “Lex.” “Clark, stop it!” Jonathan exclaimed in worry and touch of fear. Martha touched her husband’s arm. “There’s nothing you can do. Don’t make Clark hurt you, he’d be distraught.” “Hurt me?” Jonathan asked in shock, as he watched Clark trying to undress Lex and Lex struggle to stop him. “He’s not in control right now. All he knows is that he needs Lex,” Martha said quietly. Unlike her husband, she’d seen Clark lose it more than once and had the sense not to interfere. “Clark, no!” Lex snapped, grabbing his lover’s hands. Despite knowing Clark could easily overpower him, Lex was confident that he wouldn’t; although they hadn’t yet been in a situation where he’d had to test that. Making a terrible keening noise, Clark picked Lex up and carried him out of the house, speeding them to the castle. Not here, Lex had said, Clark vaguely understood that much. But he needed so badly, he took his lover to the one place he knew even now was safe. Lex’s bedroom. Lex didn’t struggle. It was better to be carried off like a helpless maiden than to have Clark stripping them off in front of his parents. Clark had them out of their clothes almost before he could blink and Lex finally let himself react. Which wasn’t hard as Clark was kissing him and rocking against him frantically. “Clark,” he said, gripping his lover’s hair to pull him back, “Steady, Clark, it’s okay.” He reached down to wipe a drop of precome from his dick and held out his finger to Clark. Sniffing deeply first, Clark sucked Lex’s finger into his mouth, moaning quietly. But it was enough to calm him, something they’d discovered through Lex’s experimentation in an effort to help control him. “Need you,” he whispered. “I know,” Lex replied with a smile, “Prepare yourself for me.” Clark shuddered with sharp arousal and nodded, reaching for the lube. He squeezed some of the clear gel onto his fingers and positioned himself so that Lex could see him. Watching his lover’s face, Clark stroked across his asshole, spreading the lube before pushing a finger inside himself. Lex echoed Clark’s moan, gripping his own cock tightly, stroking leisurely as he watched his lover. It was almost too much seeing the slick slide of Clark’s fingers in and out of his body, especially after three days without his lover; but his knowledge of Clark’s need for him, kept him under control. “Please,” Clark whispered desperately. Lex’s scent was driving him crazy and he needed his lover inside him. “Lie on your back,” Lex said hoarsely, “I want to see you.” Clark lay down, spreading his legs quickly and beckoning Lex frantically. “In me, in me, in me,” Clark chanted. Lex moved between Clark’s legs and slid up the length of his body, revelling in the smoothness of his skin. As he pushed into Clark’s body, Lex took his lover’s mouth with his own, hard and possessively. Clark groaned into his mouth and gripped at his hips, pulling him in harder and deeper. Lex was held in place for a moment, for which he was grateful, needing that time to regain some much needed control. Gradually, Lex was released and he eased back slowly, eyes rolling back in his head at the amazing heat surrounding his cock. Clark’s fingers tightening again was the only warning Lex got before he was yanked forward again, slamming into Clark’s body with an audible slap. He groaned at the sudden heat gripping him again. Tremors shot through his body. Too much, it was almost too much. Clark’s legs and hands clenched around him, hard enough to bruise, pulling him even deeper. Clark panted, straining under Lex’s body, back arching in an effort to get Lex even further inside him. He needed desperately for his lover to fill him completely. Burying his face in Clark’s neck and gripping his lover’s shoulders tightly, Lex used all his strength to push in and out of Clark as hard as he could. “Lex!” Clark screamed. It was like a tripwire going off in his head. Light exploded behind his eyes, spreading over his whole body. Pleasure shot through him, coming to an almost painful focus in his groin. Abruptly, all the tension was released and Clark came with another shout, jerking almost enough to dislodge Lex from his body. Clark’s ass clamped down around Lex’s cock, making him yelp, but the pain felt good and his lover’s violent climax was too much. Lex bit down hard on Clark’s shoulder as his own orgasm tore through his body and he emptied himself deep inside his lover. Lex collapsed, arms giving way. He was exhausted, but amazingly fulfilled. Blinking as he came back to himself, Clark ran his hands over Lex’s body worriedly. His lover was limp, his breathing laboured and harsh. “Lex?” he whispered, “Oh God, Lex, are you okay?” Lex couldn’t quite find the breath to answer. He couldn’t even open his eyes, but he felt too good to worry about it. Carefully, Clark eased Lex back and wrapped his arms round the slender body to roll them over. Still worried, Clark frowned down at the unmoving body of his lover, touching him tentatively. He smelt odd… almost like he wasn’t really there. Lex’s breathing had evened out, but there was no other sign that he was even conscious. And the bruises already forming on the pale skin of Lex’s hips and pelvis made him feel guilty. “Please, Lex,” Clark stroked his lover’s scalp gently, “Please wake up, please be okay.” Part 9 Lex forced his lips up into a smile, but was too drained to manage anything more. He needed sleep. Marginally reassured by the soft smile, Clark pulled the covers over his lover. He didn’t want to leave Lex, but he had to phone his parents. He bounced agitatedly as the phone rang and he kept a worried eye on Lex. It was his lover’s weakened scent that was really scaring him. *Clark?* “Yes, Mom,” Clark said quietly. *Are you okay, honey?* she asked worriedly. “I… I think so,” Clark whispered as he sat carefully on the bed, stroking Lex’s scalp again. His lover hadn’t moved an inch. *You think so?* Jonathan joined in the conversation from the other phone. *Clark, what the hell happened?* “Dad,” Clark sighed, “I’m sorry, okay? That’s how I get when I need Lex, I can’t help it.” *Jon, shush for a minute,* Martha said in exasperation, *Clark, what’s wrong?* “I don’t know, Mom,” Clark scrunched his eyes up against tears, he was seriously worried, “It was different this time, I think I hurt Lex.” *You would never hurt him, sweetie, why would you think that?* Martha asked in concern. “He’s unconscious… I think,” Clark’s breath hitched, “He hasn’t moved or anything, and he doesn’t smell right. Mom, I’m scared.” *Do you want me to come over, Clark?” Martha asked quickly, she could hear the tearful panic in her son’s voice. “Please,” Clark replied in relief. *I’ll be right over,* Martha said quickly, then hung up. Clark put the phone down and stared worriedly at Lex. Then he made himself get up. Quickly, Clark got dressed and found some pyjama bottoms for Lex. No matter how fond his lover was of his mother, Clark didn’t think Lex would appreciate being naked when she came over. As an afterthought, Clark called Enrique and asked him to let his mother in and show her up when she arrived. The manservant agreed without question, much to Clark’s relief. Sitting back on the bed, he eased Lex’s head into his lap. His lover still hadn’t moved. Finally, there was a quiet knock at the door and his mother slowly entered the room. “Honey?” she frowned at him sadly, then walked over to the bed quickly to cup his face. “Oh, Mom.” Clark put his head on her shoulder as she wrapped her arms round him. “I don’t know what to do.” Letting go again, Martha bent over to look at Lex, gently touching his face. “What happened?” Clark flushed, “We were… you know,” he cleared his throat in embarrassment, “Anyway, it was really intense and he just collapsed. Except for a smile, he hasn’t moved at all.” Martha looked away for a moment. She knew she needed to understand, to be strong; but it was hard knowing so much about her teenage son’s sex life. “Clark, get off the bed a moment,” she said firmly, knowing Clark would object. “But…” “Get up!” Martha snapped. Clark sighed but did as he was told. Martha sat down in his place and put her hand on Lex’s forehead. His skin was cool and a little clammy. Carefully, she peeled back an eyelid, frowning in concern at the dilated pupil. His breathing was quiet and even, but his pulse was fast and a little weak. “I think we should call a doctor, Clark,” she said quietly. Clark’s eyes widened in horror. “Are you sure?” he whispered, “Mom, he hates doctors, do you really think it’s necessary?” “Yes, I do,” Martha replied seriously. “Oh God,” Clark whispered, dropping to the floor. He felt sick. “Honey,” Martha touched his shoulder gently, “Come on now, do you know if Lex has a doctor?” “Huh?” Clark frowned up at his mother, “Oh yeah. I’ll, I’ll ask Enrique to phone him.” “Good boy,” Martha smiled, “Hold it together, okay?” Clark nodded and hurried out of the room. @>*~ Lex breathed in deeply. It had taken a while, but he was starting to feel normal again, stronger. With a groan and a stretch, Lex slowly opened his eyes, blinking in surprise when Clark’s mother leaned over him. “Martha?” he asked in confusion. “Lex? You’re okay.” She looked surprised. “Of course I am, why wouldn’t I be?” Lex raised an eyebrow. “You’ve been unconscious for about half an hour,” she said quietly, “Clark was terrified.” “Clark?” Lex managed to sit up, “Where is he?” “I sent him home to get some things for tonight.” “Tonight?” Lex stared at her hopefully. “He’s going to stay whether we let him or not, and I’m not so heartless as to try and make him go home.” Martha smiled softly. “Thank you,” Lex smiled back, “I am okay, I was just absolutely exhausted.” “You were more than exhausted, Lex, the doctor’s on his way and I expect you to let him check you.” Lex met her eyes and, realising how serious she was, he sighed and nodded. “Very well, but I am fine.” The door opened and they looked up. Lex smiled at Clark and braced himself. “Lex!” Clark breathed, bounding across the room and onto the bed, gathering his lover into his arms. “Easy, Clark,” Lex gasped, as he was squeezed tightly. “Oh God, Lex, are you okay?” Clark whispered tearfully. “Yes, love.” Lex gently stroked his lover’s hair, “Shh, I’m okay, baby.” Clark buried his face in Lex’s neck, breathing in deeply, relieved that his lover’s scent was back to normal. “God, Lex, I was so scared.” “I’m sorry, Clark, I didn’t mean to scare you, I just didn’t have the energy to do anything but sleep,” Lex said quietly. He put his hands around Clark’s face and pulled him down until their foreheads rested together. “I don’t know if I can… seeing you like that, it was awful and you hardly had a scent,” Clark whispered. “Of course you can,” Lex smiled broadly, “It was amazing.” “Really?” Clark asked in surprise. Of course, it *had* been fantastic, he just hadn’t thought about it because he’d been too worried about Lex. “Really,” Lex confirmed, “I’m sure it was just a little extreme because of it being three days since the last time.” “Maybe,” Clark said hesitantly. He still wasn’t sure and he certainly didn’t want to go through that again. Martha watched the young couple with a soft, slightly sad, smile. They looked so good together and the love between them virtually radiated from both boys. But it was still a wrench having her son in a committed relationship and starting a family of his own so young, even if the pregnancy had been an accident. They kissed gently, Lex stroking her son’s hair reverently and her smile broadened. They *were* good together. At a knock on the door, the boys broke apart. “Come,” Lex called out, grimacing slightly when Toby came in, looking as disreputable as ever. “Toby,” he said curtly in greeting. “All right, Lex,” Toby nodded, glancing curiously at Martha and Clark. “What’s wrong this time?” “Nothing as far as I’m concerned,” Lex sighed, “I feel fine.” Martha snorted, “Tough. You were not fine.” Toby chuckled, “I like you. So, what was wrong with him?” “He was unconscious, pupils dilated, thready pulse,” Martha rattled off succinctly, “No temperature, but he was clammy.” Toby raised an eyebrow, “Well then, young Master Luthor, let’s take a look at you.” Lex gave in gracefully and let Toby examine him. “Well,” Toby said eventually, “You’re right, you’re fine, apart from the bruising,” he smirked, “But considering your earlier symptoms, a day’s bed rest wouldn’t hurt.” Snorting, Lex was about to object when he caught Martha’s gaze. “You will do as the doctor says, Lex, you have considerations now,” she said firmly. With a sigh, Lex nodded, “Very well.” “I definitely like you,” Toby chortled, eyeing Martha with interest. “Toby, get out,” Lex snapped, “See Enrique about your payment.” “Touchy,” Toby raised an eyebrow, “So, which one are you fucking, or is it both?” “I won’t tell you again.” Lex’s voice was like ice and it made Clark shiver, arousal spreading through his body despite his mother’s presence. Toby put up his hands pacifyingly and left the room with out further comment. “I’d better go, or your father will start to worry,” Martha sighed. Clark stood up and gave her a hug. “Thank you, Mom,” he whispered. “Any time, honey, and don’t forget, I want you back in school tomorrow.” Martha smiled at her son’s disgruntled expression. “Okay, Mom,” Clark sighed. She bent to give Lex a quick hug, “And you stay in bed young man.” Lex gave her a startled smile, “Yes ma’am.” With a nod and a final smile, Martha left them to it. Clark sat on the bed again and took Lex’s hand. “Let me guess, you’re allowed to stay over if you go to school?” Lex asked with a wry smile. “Yeah, it was the only way we could get Dad to agree,” Clark sighed. “Good enough for me, we haven’t spent a whole night together, well… ever,” Lex realised even as he spoke. “Our first night?” Clark said with a raised eyebrow. “Doesn’t count because I didn’t sleep on the bed and you ran away before I woke up,” Lex pointed out. “I guess.” “So, are you just going to sit there, or get undressed and join me?” Lex asked with a smirk. Grinning, Clark superspeeded out of his clothes and into bed, pulling Lex down into his arms. “Clark?” “Yeah?” Clark frowned at Lex’s worried tone. “What’s that on your shoulder?” Lex asked, propping his head up on one hand so he could see better. It looked like… but it couldn’t be, could it? “What?” Clark asked, “I can’t see.” “I… I think it’s a bite mark,” Lex whispered, “But how is that possible?” Clark touched his shoulder, wincing just a little at the sore spot on his shoulder. “I don’t know,” he gasped. “Have you noticed any change in your powers, love?” Lex asked quietly, trying not to let his worry colour his tone. “No.” Clark shook his head. He could smell the concern from his lover, so strong it was almost tangible, and with it came the urge to lick it away, replace it with arousal and lust. “Are you sure?” “Lex, I’m sure, everything’s been normal; well, normal for me anyway,” Clark insisted. He got up and walked over to the mirror to have a look for himself. It was definitely a bite mark, and to be honest, it gave him a thrill. “Lex,” he said with a grin. He jumped onto the bed and knelt in front of his lover, “Lex, you marked me.” “But, love, I shouldn’t be able to.” Lex couldn’t help but still be worried. “I don’t care,” Clark said with a pout, “It feels good, I like it.” “Are you sure?” Lex asked cautiously. “Very,” Clark replied with a determined nod. “If you’re still worried tomorrow, we can test it out, okay? Just let me enjoy it for now.” “Okay,” Lex agreed with a sigh, “Now come here.” Clark slipped back into bed and snuggled up to his lover happily. He really wasn’t concerned about the implications of the mark, all he knew was that it felt right. And Lex was the one who’d told him to go with his instincts, Clark was simply following his advice. @>*~ Lex woke in the middle of the night to an empty bed. Frowning, he got up and slipped on his robe. After checking the bathroom, Lex went downstairs, checking the office and the den on his way down. Finally, he made his way to the kitchen, relieved when he found Clark, who currently had his head under the faucet. “Clark?” Lex made his presence known. Clark held up one finger and continued drinking for a moment. With a satiated sigh, he switched off the water and straightened. “Hey Lex.” “What are you doing?” Lex asked in confusion, “If you were thirsty, I have a fridge full of water in the bedroom.” “I know,” Clark replied with a nod, “Drank it already.” “You… you drank twenty bottles of water, and still had to come downstairs for more?” Lex blinked in shock. “I was *really* thirsty.” Clark grinned. “No kidding,” Lex said dryly. “I didn’t mean to disturb you though,” Clark said apologetically. Lex smiled, “You didn’t, love. I guess I just noticed I was on my own.” “Well, I’m done now, and you should be resting.” Clark waggled an admonishing finger at his lover. “Indeed,” Lex laughed, “Just wanted to be sure you were still here.” Clark wrapped an arm round Lex’s shoulders and began to walk them back upstairs. “Of course I am. I mean, how often are we going to be able to spend the night together?” “Exactly,” Lex agreed. “So, this drinking, has it been going on long?” “A couple of weeks,” Clark said quietly, “I get *so* thirsty, I’m drinking gallons a night.” He closed the bedroom door behind them and they both slipped their remaining clothes off before getting back into bed. “Fascinating,” Lex commented thoughtfully, “I wonder why.” “I’m pregnant, who knows what that is doing to my body,” Clark sighed. “How’s your shoulder?” Lex asked quietly. Clark pouted, “It’s healed already.” “Really?” Lex was a little surprised, but relieved. He still wasn’t sure how he felt about being able to mark his lover the way he had, despite Clark’s insistence that it had felt good. It just shouldn’t be possible with Clark’s skin. Of course, he *was* pregnant, and like Clark had said, who knew what was going on with his body. He just hoped his lover’s hormones didn’t go crazy; Lex still had memories of his mother’s pregnancy with Julian. The mood swings had been hard work, especially with his father’s attitude. “Yeah,” Clark sighed, “I kinda wanted it to last so I could have it with me through school tomorrow.” Clark glanced at Lex, whose head was resting on his chest. “I… I don’t suppose you’d…” “No!” Lex exclaimed, “Clark, I really don’t think it’s a good idea to hurt you in any way at the moment.” “But,” Clark started. “No, Clark,” Lex said firmly. Clark breathed out huffily, “I don’t see why not.” He was a little hurt at his lover’s point blank refusal. “Clark,” Lex sighed, “I just got you back, can we not argue right now?” Immediately feeling bad, Clark pressed a kiss to Lex’s scalp. “I’m sorry. I just really liked it, that’s all.” “I know, love, I’m sorry too,” Lex whispered, “I know how much I like it when you mark me, it would just worry me too much.” Clark nodded his understanding and pulled his lover further onto his body so he could wrap both arms round him. “I love you.” “I love you too,” Lex whispered. @>*~ Lex was very slightly annoyed to wake to an empty bed again, but when he heard the toilet flush, he had to grin. All that water Clark had drunk must have taken it’s toll. Clark slipped back into bed and curled round Lex. “Sorry,” he whispered when he realised Lex was awake. “That’s okay,” Lex chuckled sleepily, “Just promise me I’ll wake up in the morning like this.” “I promise,” Clark said with a grin, wrapping an arm round Lex’s waist. Lex nodded and closed his eyes, relaxing into his lover’s embrace. @>*~ The alarm was unexpected and Clark lashed out, accidentally smashing the clock. “Oops.” Lex opened his eyes, “God, what time is it?” “I have no idea,” Clark replied, stifling a giggle. “Look at the clock,” Lex yawned. “I kind of broke the clock.” Clark couldn’t help laughing. “Oh, was that what that was?” Lex wiggled round in Clark’s arms so he could see his lover. He thought for a moment, “You can probably see the clock in the next room.” “Why do you want to know what time it is?” Clark asked curiously. “To see how much time we have,” Lex smirked. “Time for… oh.” Lex’s arousal had kind of snuck up on him. Clark grinned and slipped his hands down to Lex’s ass, pulling his lover up against his decidedly interested body. “Hmm, exactly,” Lex moaned. “We have plenty of time,” Clark whispered into Lex’s ear before licking it. His control was ebbing away and he rocked his hips against the smaller man. “Easy, lover,” Lex whispered. “Want you,” Clark said with a pout. “I know, I want you too.” Lex shut his eyes, moving with Clark, “Baby, jack us both.” Oh. Clark blinked. Oh wow. He slipped a hand between their bodies and pressed their cocks together, wrapping his fingers round both. “Yes,” Lex breathed, straining forward into Clark’s hand. The feel of his cock sliding against Clark’s was amazing as their precome mixed and eased the motion; the tight grip of his lover, perfect for their need. Lex’s cock was so hot. Clark groaned against his lover’s neck; he could feel everything, the pulse of Lex’s blood through his palm and cock, the silky slide of skin against skin, almost as good as having Lex inside him. He wrapped his free arm round Lex, pulling him closer as they writhed together, faces buried in each others’ necks. Clark had a dim hope that Lex would mark him again, but more important was his lover’s completion, the scent of satiation that kept him sane. Moving with the rhythm of Clark’s hand, rubbing against the hand pressed to his ass, Lex reached up to grip Clark’s hair, pulling him down for a devouring kiss. Mouths locked together, fighting for dominance, tongues wrestling together as their movements got more erratic. Clark felt like his brain was going to short circuit and he needed Lex to come, needed that scent on him. He tightened his grip and stroked harder. “Clark,” Lex grunted, thrusting faster and faster into Clark’s fist, against his cock. Tension built in his back, wrapping around to painful pleasure in his groin. Clark nipped his lip and Lex let go, shuddering as his come spurted between them. “Yes,” Clark groaned, inhaling deeply. The bitter-sweet smell of Lex’s come, the feel of his lover’s body shaking in his arms was just… everything. His eyes squeezed shut as his climax ripped through him, his seed joining Lex’s over his hand and their stomachs. “God, Clark,” Lex panted. He was feeling a little tired again, probably because he was still recovering from the previous night, but it was all so good. “Mmm,” Clark sighed, licking Lex’s mouth, “Love you so much.” Lex smiled and rolled onto his back. “Love you too.” Glancing through the wall, Clark was surprised at how much time had passed. “Ah crap,” he muttered. Lex’s eyes shot open worriedly, “What? What is it?” “Nothing,” Clark sighed, “I just have to go.” “Oh.” Lex tried not to feel morose. They had to get back to real life eventually, even if real life was fucking bizarre. Running his hand through the come on Lex’s belly, Clark rubbed as much as he could onto his skin. “You know, that’s pretty gross,” Lex commented, raising an eyebrow. Clark pouted, “How else am I supposed to make it through a whole day without you?” Chuckling, Lex shook his head, “A few hours, Clark. I seem to remember school only being a few hours a day.” “Too long,” Clark sniffed his hand with a sigh. “Hmm, maybe you’re right there,” Lex said with a tiny nod. He might not have felt their separation to the intense degree that Clark had, but it had been a long, heart wrenching and scary three days without his lover. “Promise me you’ll rest today,” Clark whispered. Lex looked up at his lover, meeting green eyes full of love and concern, and nodded, “I promise.” “Good.” Clark grinned finally and bent his head for a quick kiss. He got up, pulling on a pair of Lex’s boxers before getting dressed. “I’d better go.” “See you later, lover.” Clark smiled and nodded, “Bet on it.” Part 10 “Clark!” Clark grunted under Chloe’s tight hug, and smiled over her shoulder at Pete. “God, we were so worried,” Chloe said quietly as she finally let go. “Where were you?” “Mom and Dad told you guys?” Clark asked. “Of course they did,” Pete nodded, “Besides, I have never seen Lex Luthor in such a state, it was obvious something was wrong.” Clark winced, feeling guilty all over again. It made him feel a little sick… or was that? Clark sighed, “I just had to get away for a couple of days, sort some things through.” The nausea intensified, “Would you excuse me a moment?” Chloe and Pete stared in surprise as he bolted for the bathroom. “What was that?” Chloe asked in amazement. “I’m not sure. Hang on a sec.” Pete replied and followed Clark into the bathroom. He frowned at the retching sound coming from one of the stalls. “Clark, are you okay?” Clark groaned quietly, “Yeah, I’m just a bit ill.” Pete frowned again, “Clark, man, you *never* get ill.” “I’m not puking for fun here, Pete,” Clark snapped, standing up and flushing the toilet. He walked out of the stall and past Pete to the sink, bending to wash his mouth out. “Yeah, but…” Pete started worriedly. In all the time he’d known Clark, he’d never seen the other boy sick. “Everybody gets sick, Pete,” Clark sighed, “It’s nothing, probably just something I ate.” Pete grimaced, a flash of Clark and Lex unexpectedly invading his mind. Clark caught the look. “Oh get your mind out of the gutter!” “With pleasure,” Pete snorted, “I so didn’t want it there.” “Good,” Clark said with a nod. “Come on, we’d better get to class.” “Yeah.” @>*~ “Clark, what the fuck are you eating?” Lex rounded the table and stared at his lover’s plate in disgust. “What?” Clark blinked in surprise, “It’s just a sandwich.” “Just a sandwich,” Lex muttered, shaking his head, “It’s a tuna, potato chip and *raspberry jelly* sandwich!” “Yeah, *and*?” Clark growled defensively. Pulling a face, Lex swallowed hard, what had he been thinking? “Okay, forget I said anything. If that’s what you want…” “It is!” Clark snapped, turning away from his lover. What was wrong with everyone? His parents, Lex, Chloe and Pete, everyone was constantly picking on him. Clark sniffed, his eyes burning with tears suddenly. He dropped his sandwich on the plate, shoulders hunching as he tried not to cry. Lex sighed and hurried back round to his younger lover. He dropped to his knees in front of him and pulled Clark into his arms. “I’m sorry,” he whispered. Clark burst into tears. “What’s wrong, baby?” “Every-b-body is… being so… *mean*,” Clark sobbed into Lex’s neck, sniffing to try and take comfort in his lover’s scent. “We’re just worried about you because we love you, Clark,” Lex said quietly, rubbing Clark’s back gently. “You still love me?” Clark whispered uncertainly. “How can you even ask that? Of course I love you,” Lex gasped. “But I’m getting so fat and I look h-horrible.” Clark’s breath hitched on his tears. “What are you talking about?” Lex asked quietly, “You’re gorgeous.” He put his hand on Clark’s rounded belly, “And you’re not fat, Clark, this is our baby. He’s just growing fast, that’s all.” “P-promise?” Clark whined. “I promise, baby, I love you and I love your sexy body,” Lex whispered. He’d become very accomplished at comforting and reassuring his lover over the past month. Clark was increasingly emotional and it was getting hard to hide from anyone outside the family. The Kents had already received phone calls from the school about Clark’s unusual behaviour. Taking Clark’s face in his hands, Lex gently wiped the tears away and gave him a tissue. Clark blew his nose noisily. “I’m sorry,” he whispered, feeling a little silly. “It’s okay, baby.” Lex smiled and dropped a kiss onto Clark’s lips. He managed to suppress a grimace at the taste of tuna and raspberry, Lex didn’t want to set Clark off again. “The school counsellor wants to see me,” Clark whispered. “What? Why?” Lex asked, sitting back on his heels. Clark shrugged. “I…” he sighed, “I had a screaming match with Jessica.” Lex raised an eyebrow, “And?” he prompted. “And I cried in gym class.” Clark whispered meekly. “Oh love,” Lex sighed, “I know it’s hard, but you’ve got to try and act normally at school.” “I can’t help it, Lex,” Clark sniffed, blinking away fresh tears, “I hate being there and everyone’s mean and Coach was so horrible today, he s-said I was f-fat.” Lex’s face hardened, jaw clenching angrily, “Did he?” Clark nodded, a thrill shooting through him at the scent of Lex’s possessive anger. “Coach had better have some savings put aside,” Lex muttered, debating who to call to get the teacher fired. Clark didn’t even object, he just stood and lifted Lex into his arms, carrying his lover to the bedroom. Lex decided not to scold Clark for lifting him and potentially straining himself, he didn’t want any more tears from his lover. Clark put him on the bed. “What do you need, love?” Lex whispered, watching Clark strip shyly, trying to hide his expanding belly. “You,” Clark said quietly, “I just need you.” Lex got up from the bed and turned Clark to face him properly. Leaning up to kiss his lover, Lex slowly ran his hands down Clark’s chest, gently tweaking increasingly sensitive nipples, before carefully caressing Clark’s stomach. “You’re so beautiful, love,” Lex whispered reassuringly. “Get on the bed.” Clark nodded and lay down, watching in his turn as Lex stripped. It was getting harder and harder for them to spend time apart, but Lex always made him feel better. His lover didn’t know it, but his scent of love and desire was far more reassuring than the constantly repeated words of love. Lex crawled onto the bed and gently urged him onto his side, spooning up behind him. Soft kisses peppered his back as Lex rocked his erection slowly against his ass. Groaning quietly, Clark pushed back. While his control had grown over four months of pregnancy, his need for Lex remained constant. And he really needed him today. Lex reached under the pillow for the lube and spread some quickly onto his cock. Moving slightly, he pressed gently into Clark, moaning at the intense heat. Clark pushed back again, eager to get Lex completely inside him. The stretch, the fullness was always so amazing. A sense of being completed and possessed filled him, distracting Clark momentarily from the hand that snuck round to grasp his cock. Lex stilled for a moment, just letting himself feel. It was always so intense, sometimes it just astounded him. “Lex,” Clark whispered needily. Slowly at first, Lex started to move, pulling back against the squeeze of Clark’s ass, then thrusting forwards again into the slick tightness. “Oh, Lex,” Clark gasped. Lex thrust rhythmically, maintaining his grip on Clark’s erection, letting his body’s movements push Clark into his fist. Soft, sensual pleasure diffused slowly through Clark’s body, twin points of sweet ecstasy growing as Lex slid in and out of his body, a little deeper with each stroke. Intent on loving Clark, Lex almost didn’t notice his own climax building into an intense ache in his groin. “Love you,” Lex whispered, coming with a shudder of completion as Clark thrust back to meet him. Hot wetness coated his hand and Clark groaned quietly, body jerking gently against him. “Love you too,” Clark mumbled. Emotionally and physically drained, and reassured finally by the scent of Lex’s completion, Clark closed his eyes and fell asleep. Lex lay wrapped round his lover for a while, contemplating Clark’s condition. They were going to have to do something soon. Clark couldn’t continue going to school for long, there was just no way to hide that something was wrong. Pulling the covers up, Lex tucked Clark in and got up, grabbing the phone and dialling on his way to the next room. *Hello?* “Jon, it’s Lex,” Lex said quietly. *Is something wrong?* Jonathan asked quickly in concern. “Not really,” Lex sighed, “I think today’s been hard on Clark, he’s asleep. I was wondering if you would mind him spending the night tonight?” Jonathan sighed, *I don’t know, Lex. Martha is getting really worried about him lately. So am I.* “You think I’m not?” Lex snapped, “He was in tears again today and the counsellor wants to see him. We can’t carry on like this.” *Well, what do you suggest?* Jonathan snapped back, *If we take Clark out of school, we could have child welfare on our backs.* “We might anyway at this rate, Jon,” Lex sighed, “And he’s getting so big, so quickly, how do you expect him to hide that?” *I just don’t know,* Jonathan said desperately. “Look, I know a doctor who can sign Clark off school, no questions asked, for a few months,” Lex suggested, “We can say he’s ill and being home schooled.” *That doesn’t help us with Pete and Chloe, Lex,* Jonathan pointed out. “But it’s better than nothing,” Lex said quietly. *Okay,* Jonathan sighed, *Bring him home tomorrow and we’ll all talk about it, we don’t want him thinking we’re going behind his back about this.* “God no!” Lex exclaimed, remembering Clark’s reaction to overhearing a discussion between his parents about what they were going to do. It had taken all three of them to calm him and coax him out of his room. “Thanks, Jon. We’ll be there in the morning. Bye.” *Bye, Lex.* Lex put the phone down and walked back to the bedroom. Clark had barely moved. With a tiny smile, Lex got back into bed and wrapped himself round his lover. @>*~ Clark sat bolt upright, jostling Lex who mumbled in sleepy annoyance. “Got to pee,” Clark muttered, “Got to pee, got to *pee*.” “Go pee then,” Lex snorted. “Right, good plan,” Clark said with a nod. His brain hadn’t quite gotten into gear yet. He threw the covers off and jumped out of bed, running for the bathroom. Resigned to wakefulness, Lex sat, drawing the covers back over his legs. “Take it easy, Clark!” he yelled. “Sorry,” Clark called back. He relieved himself quickly with a sigh of contentment, until he looked down. God, his belly was getting *big*. How the heck was he supposed to hide it? Morosely, Clark stumbled back into the bedroom. “Lex,” he whined, “What are we going to do?” He gestured at his stomach. “Get back to bed for a start,” Lex said softly, beckoning his lover. Clark shuffled over to the bed and crawled under the covers, snuggling up to Lex. “I spoke to your Dad last night to tell him I was bringing you home this morning, we can all talk then, okay, baby?” Lex asked. “Okay,” Clark sighed. “Can we stay in bed a while longer though?” Lex grinned, “Of course we can, it’s still early.” @>*~ Clark woke again, curled up with his head on Lex’s stomach. It was gurgling and he grinned. “Are you hungry?” he asked quietly, in case his lover was still asleep. Lex lifted his hand and stroked Clark’s hair. “Yeah, I am. Shall we get up and go to your parents for breakfast?” “Sounds good,” Clark agreed, “I seem to remember my Mom has a can of chestnut purée somewhere.” Lex pulled a face but was wise enough not to comment. Clark sat up and pushed the covers down, grinning at Lex’s disgruntled expression. “What? You said to get up,” he chuckled. Lex pouted, “I was expecting a kiss first.” Clark leaned down and kissed the tip of Lex’s cock. “Bastard,” Lex groaned as Clark proceeded to get out of bed, leaving him half hard. “Be nice, or I’ll tell my Mommy on you,” Clark said, trying to contain a giggle. He was in a tremendously silly mood. Raising an eyebrow, Lex heaved a long suffering sigh and shook his head. In truth, he was relieved that Clark was in a happy mood, he’d missed the beaming smile currently being directed at him. “Where are your boxers, Lex?” Clark asked, frowning as he scanned the floor. “Try the base of the bed, love,” Lex suggested. “Aha!” Clark exclaimed triumphantly, he sniffed the underwear deeply and fake swooned onto the bed, “So good!” Lex chuckled and got up, walking to his closet for a clean pair. He dressed quickly and they headed back to Clark’s. In the car, Clark’s mood started to deteriorate as he worried about what they were going to do. Lex noticed the growing frown on his lover’s face and sighed, so much for the happy start to the day. Hopefully talking to his parents would go okay, but, at the moment, they never could tell what would set Clark off. When they arrived, Clark trailed after Lex into the house, worrying him even more. “Baby, it’s going to be okay, you know,” Lex said quietly. The kitchen was empty, so they were still on their own. “What if it’s not?” Clark asked, screwing his eyes up against tears he could already feel starting. He really didn’t want to cry, but lately everything seemed to affect him weirdly, and he was *so* scared again. How could they possibly hide this? It had been stupid and naïve of them to be so blithely happy. “I promised it would be.” Lex reached out and pulled Clark into his arms, “And I will do everything in my power to keep that promise, okay?” Clark buried his face in Lex’s shoulder and nodded, trusting in his lover to make everything better. Lex smiled softly and wrapped his arms tighter round his lover’s broad shoulders. “Clark?” Lex smiled reassuringly at Clark’s mother who was staring worriedly at them. Clark sniffed and used his lover’s scent to ground himself before lifting his head. “Hey Mom.” “Are you okay, honey?” Martha asked, still concerned, especially knowing that her baby had been crying the night before. It still hurt a little that Clark took his comfort in and from Lex more than her these days. Although, when they needed it, both boys turned to her and Jonathan and that made her feel less helpless. “What happened yesterday?” she asked quietly. “A soon to be jobless Coach Gorman called Clark fat,” Lex growled. Clark sighed, even the subtle electricity of Lex’s anger wasn’t enough to pull him out of his mood. “I cried in gym class and now all the guys think I’m a big freak of a fag.” “Who called you a fag?” Lex almost snapped at his lover, a little angry that Clark had left that part out the day before. Flinching, Clark turned away, “I heard a couple of the guys say I was probably getting fat from…” he trailed off, flushing and trying desperately not to cry again. “What, baby?” Lex asked softly, stroking Clark’s arm apologetically. “From sucking your dick,” Clark whispered, pointedly not looking at his mother, who gasped. Lex bit down on his lip, he didn’t want to upset either Kent by vocalising the cursing running through his mind. “You’re not going back there,” he hissed through gritted teeth. “I thought we were supposed to be talking about what we’re going to do,” Jonathan said as he walked into the kitchen. “Do you really want Clark to continue at a school where the teachers insult him and the students are gossiping about his relationship with me?” Lex snapped. “We still need to talk about it, this is Clark’s future and it’s going to be hard enough without jeopardising his education,” Jonathan snapped right back. “Stop it!” Clark yelled suddenly, “Stop talking about me as if I wasn’t right here!” Tempted as he was to storm off, Clark settled for shoving Lex towards a chair and sitting down next to him. “I don’t want to go back to school like this,” Clark continued, “So let’s deal with that.” “Okay,” Lex sighed, “I’m sorry, you know I’m just worried about you.” “I know, but I’m scared here, and I don’t want to have to worry about anything else right now,” Clark said quietly. “Even if we take you out of school, it’ll look strange, Clark,” Martha said quietly, “You’ve never been off sick in your life.” “I don’t want to go back,” Clark insisted, “Even Pete and Chloe are acting weird around me, and it’s no wonder when they don’t know why I’m snapping at them one minute and crying the next.” “You can’t cut everyone out of your life for the next few months, Clark,” Jonathan sighed. “I *know* that, but the fewer people I see, the better. Come on, Dad, look at me…” Clark’s voice got louder and higher, but Lex’s hand over his stopped him. “Don’t even think of insulting yourself again,” Lex said quietly. Clark shivered at the intense love and concern in both his lover’s gaze and scent. “But, I…” “No,” Lex whispered, taking Clark’s face in his hands and leaning close, “I love you, I will not let you think there’s anything wrong with you.” “Oh Lex.” Tears trickled down Clark’s cheeks quietly and he closed his eyes as Lex kissed them away gently. “Let me get Clark signed off school,” Lex asked Jonathan and Martha pleadingly. “Fine,” Jonathan sighed, “And then what?” “Well, I can easily keep Clark up to speed with his school work,” Lex suggested. Clark grimaced. “What? You didn’t think you’d get off studying did you?” Clark pouted at his lover, who smiled finally. “He stays here,” Jonathan said firmly. “I wasn’t going to suggest anything else,” Lex said quietly, “But you have to allow for us, well…” Lex trailed off as Jonathan bristled slightly. “I still need him, you know that,” Clark whispered. Jonathan had finally become resigned to that fact and sighed, “Just never under my roof, that’s all I ask.” “Not a problem,” Clark agreed quickly. The thought of having sex in his parents’ house was squicky anyway. “What about Chloe and Pete?” Martha asked, “They’re going to want to come round, you know.” “I know,” Clark sighed, “I’ll just have to try and hide it as I get bigger.” His mother looked doubtful. “What else can I do?” “Okay, I guess there is nothing else we can do except send you away, and I know none of us want that.” Clark nodded. “Okay, is it settled then?” He waited for everyone to nod. “Good, now can I please get some food?” Lex grinned at him and his parents’ startled expressions. He’d expected more tears and arguments, and not necessarily from Clark, and he was grateful that they’d sorted something out. He just had one thing to do, find out who those boys were who’d insulted Clark. They would find life more than a little difficult after hurting his lover. @>*~ “So oxygen is the by product of…” Lex paused, “Clark, are you even listening to me?” “Lex,” Clark whispered, “Oh my, oh! Lex, come here, right now.” Frowning worriedly, Lex hurried to the couch to sit next to his lover. “What’s wrong, Clark?” “Nothing, just…” Clark’s breath hitched and he grabbed Lex’s hand, putting it on his belly. Lex’s expression turned to awe as he felt the ripple across Clark’s stomach. “Oh Clark, is that?” he gasped. “Yeah,” Clark breathed, “God, it feels so weird, like he’s crawling around or something.” “Clark, there’s a foot,” Lex laughed. “Ow, yeah. Lex, this is kinda freaky,” Clark whispered hesitantly. “I know, baby.” Lex shifted so that he could hold Clark, “But it’s normal.” “We think. Except I’m six months preg…” “Hey yo, Clark, you in?” Pete’s voice interrupted them. “Shit,” Clark muttered, dragging the thick blanket off the couch back to disguise just how large his stomach was. “Yeah, come on in,” he called out. Lex sighed and put his chin on Clark’s shoulder, slipping his hands under the blanket so that he could continue to feel his son’s antics. “God, Clark, you’re such a faker,” Pete laughed, “You don’t look ill at all.” “Hey, I’ll have you know I have severe mental health problems, right Lex?” Clark huffed. “Right,” Lex said dryly. Chloe smiled tightly, “Seriously, it’s been two months. When are you coming back to school?” Clark sighed, “I don’t know, Chloe, when the doctors clear me I guess.” She didn’t look happy with his answer but it was the best Clark could do. So far as he knew, it could be months, or tomorrow. “What’s actually wrong?” she asked quietly, “You never have really told us.” “Well, guys, I really didn’t know how to tell you…” Clark blinked sincerely, “But I’m pregnant.” He felt Lex freeze behind him and squeezed his lover’s knee. Pete stared at him in shock for a moment and then started to laugh. Chloe stared at all of them as Clark, then Lex joined in. She laughed half heartedly, she really was worried about Clark. Clark giggled hysterically until, disconcertingly, the pressure on his bladder suddenly increased. “Oh shit, Lex,” he whispered. Lex caught the panic in his lover’s voice and straightened. “Okay guys, time to go.” Pete stopped laughing and glared at Lex, about to say something until he saw the expression on Clark’s face. “Man, are you okay?” “Yes,” Clark said tightly, “Just, please guys?” Chloe and Pete stood up together and nodded. “Sure, Clark, we’ll come see you tomorrow?” Chloe ventured. “Great,” Clark replied, gritting his teeth against the painful pressure in his abdomen. Finally, not soon enough for Clark, they left. “Clark?” “Bathroom, right now,” Clark whimpered. “Okay, baby, take it easy, let’s get you up,” Lex said soothingly. He pulled back the blanket and helped Clark to his feet. “Lex, I need to go upstairs,” Clark whispered in distress. The baby was so big now, he constantly had to go to the bathroom and the laughter before had made him wet himself. Not the first time it had happened, but still humiliating, even with Lex. “I knew it!” Came a tiny gasp. Lex and Clark froze and slowly turned their heads. Chloe was staring at them, stunned. “Well, not in the sense that I actually had any idea, but I, I knew it.” Something about Clark’s behaviour and the joke he’d made about being pregnant had just struck her as odd and she’d decided to come back. But to see Clark, belly distended with life, was a huge shock. “You… you really are pregnant!” “Oh God,” Clark groaned. This was a nightmare. “Just sit down, Chloe,” Lex said tersely, he was too concerned with Clark to deal with her right now, “We’ll be back in a moment and we can talk, okay?” “Okay,” Chloe whispered, nodding her head slowly and sinking down onto the armchair. Clark gripped Lex’s hand tightly on the way up the stairs. “What are we going to do, Lex?” he moaned. “Let’s get you sorted out before we worry, baby,” Lex said quietly, trying to hide just *how* worried he really was, even though he knew Clark could smell it on him. Clark just nodded, he had to go to the bathroom badly, even the urge to lick the worry off Lex’s skin couldn’t compete. And he really had to change before he could think about facing Chloe. “I’ll get you some clothes,” Lex suggested. “Okay,” Clark said in a tiny voice. “Can I wear your boxers?” “Of course, love,” Lex managed a smile. What else could they do but tell Chloe? And they couldn’t even discuss it with Clark’s parents first because they weren’t there. While Clark went to the bathroom and cleaned himself up, Lex got out some clean pants and stripped out of his own to remove his boxer shorts. He slipped on a pair from a supply he’d taken to leaving at the Kents’ for occasions like this and pulled his pants back on hurriedly. Clark would want to take comfort in his smell, so Lex didn’t want anything to worsen that need, although his protective instincts would certainly be hard on Clark’s control. Even now, with Clark as heavily pregnant as he was, they made love everyday. A fact that sometimes worried Lex, because they had so little knowledge of Clark’s origins and biology. And his lover’s skin could still be marked, and damaged, although it did heal incredibly quickly; it was yet another worry. When Clark entered the bedroom, a whole concert of scents hit him; protectiveness, worry, love, it was almost too much. He dressed quickly and sat down, leaning against his lover. “He’s moving a lot,” Clark whispered. Lex wrapped an arm round Clark’s shoulders, “He probably knows you’re upset, try not to worry.” Clark snorted, “Yeah right. Lex, I don’t want to tell her.” “You don’t?” Lex was surprised, he knew how much Clark hated lying to his friends. “No, it’s bad enough that she thinks I’m a mutant freak…” “Like me,” Lex said quietly. The words stung coming from his lover. “I didn’t mean it like that,” Clark sighed, “You’re not a freak. The meteors changed you, but they helped you become the man I love.” “And being an alien is part of what makes you, and I love you. You are not a freak for fuck’s sake.” Lex was getting tired of this particular argument. “I’m a sixteen year old, pregnant alien, Lex,” Clark pointed out. “Yeah, you’re not that unique you know? Not so long ago anyone sixteen and pregnant would have been called a freak and worse. You do realise how lucky you are to have a family that love and support you no matter what, don’t you?” Lex snapped. Oops. Clark sighed. He, more than anyone, knew how much Lex’s relationship with his father hurt his lover. “I’m sorry, Lex, I know I could be in a much worse situation. I just really don’t want to tell her.” Sighing himself, Lex dropped his head onto Clark’s shoulder, “So, what do we tell her?” Relieved at Lex’s acceptance of his apology, Clark shrugged. “What else could make my stomach stick out like this?” Lex frowned thoughtfully, “A benign tumour maybe. But don’t you think she’ll be a little suspicious when the baby comes?” “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it,” Clark said stubbornly. “Okay,” Lex said quietly. They still had to think of a way to explain the baby away. This was just another consideration. “You ready to go down?” “As I’ll ever be.” Clark nodded. He let Lex help him up. Super strength or not, the baby was heavy and draining. Chloe shifted agitatedly as the couple came back down the stairs. Clark had changed clothes and she frowned curiously. Lex supported Clark as he collapsed back onto the couch and put the blanket back over him before he sat down next to him, taking his hand. “What’s going on?” she asked. “Chloe, I’m not pregnant, I mean, come *on*!” Clark started with a snort. She flushed, “Okay, so explain that,” she pointed at his stomach, “And the mood swings, the weird food, sudden urges to pee, need I go on?” Clark sighed. Thank goodness only Chloe had seemed to notice everything and put it together, only one person to have to explain it away to. “I have a tumour, Chloe,” Clark whispered, wincing internally at the seriousness of the lie. At her gasp, he hastened to reassure her, “It’s benign, Chloe, it’s okay.” “It’s okay?!” she exclaimed, “Are you sure, I mean, it’s huge, why haven’t they operated…” “Chloe,” Lex interrupted, “It’s nothing to get worried about, honestly. I’ve had the best doctors on it, it is completely benign.” “But the other things, I mean, why?” Chloe asked, still worried despite their attempts at reassurance. “It’s secreting hormones and messing with Clark’s system, that’s all. They haven’t operated yet because they’re waiting for the drugs to kick in and settle his system first,” Lex explained, much more used to lying easily than Clark. “Why didn’t you just tell us?” she whispered. “I didn’t want to worry you,” Clark sighed. “Clark,” she snorted, “I’ve been worried sick because you hadn’t told us.” “I’m sorry.” Clark reached out to take her hand, just as his son decided to kick him, “Ow!” he yelped. “Clark?” Chloe gasped worriedly. “I’m okay,” Clark groaned, “It just hurts sometimes.” “And you said I didn’t have to worry?!” Chloe glared at Lex. Mentally rolling his eyes, Lex turned his attention to his lover. “Are you all right, Clark?” “Yeah, just, you know,” Clark whispered. “Yeah.” Lex had to hold back a smile. Pride over their son’s movements was almost overwhelming, but not something he could show in front of Chloe. But he slipped his hands under the blanket again to clasp his lover’s stomach, feeling the tiny ripples of movement. “Really, Chloe,” Clark smiled at his friend, “I’m okay.” “Sure?” Chloe asked. “Yeah, please, don’t worry.” Chloe sighed, “Okay, and I won’t tell anyone, but I think you should tell Pete, he’s worried about you too.” “I’ll think about it,” Clark agreed. Chloe got up, “Well, I guess I should go. Some of us have school tomorrow.” She grinned at Clark’s laugh. “Bye guys.” “Bye Chloe, see you tomorrow.” Clark sighed and leaned back against Lex. “Well, that went okay.” “Yeah, not a bad explanation really,” Lex said with a nod. Twisting his head, Clark nuzzled Lex’s neck, inhaling deeply. All of the stress of the last hour or so dissipated under the influence of Lex’s warm, loving and relieved scent. He licked soft skin and shifted closer. “Lex,” he whispered. Closing his eyes, Lex bent his head, rubbing his cheek against Clark’s hair, before urging his lover up. Their lips met softly and Clark opened up immediately, sucking Lex’s tongue into his mouth, caressing it with his own. He always needed, but right now, he needed badly and he took Lex’s hand, slipping it down to his tightening groin. Lex groaned and pressed his mouth harder against Clark’s, probing deeply. His lover’s ass was pushing back insistently. “Clark,” Lex whispered, “Clark, not here, baby.” With a frustrated moan, Clark pulled back. “I know, God, but I need you.” “Go and get in the car, I’ll leave a note for your parents,” Lex suggested. “’Kay.” Clark levered himself up from the couch and walked slowly out to the yard. Lex jotted down a quick note and hurried out to join his lover. He drove carefully, or as carefully as he could as Clark had his hand in his lap. Back at the castle, Lex helped Clark out of the car, and slung his arm round his lover’s waist as they walked up to the bedroom. Lex had forbidden Clark to use his speed and strength after his fourth month, backed by his parents, and it frustrated Clark not to be able to just pick his lover up, run them to the room, strip them off and indulge his senses. It took so much control not to just give into his need sometimes. Lex wrapped his arms round Clark and pulled him close, shifting sideways to accommodate his lover’s expansive stomach. Bending his head, Clark took Lex’s mouth again, insistently, putting all his need into the kiss, delving deeply between soft lips. “I know, baby, I know,” Lex whispered against Clark’s mouth. He helped his lover undress, slowly kissing every inch of skin, especially his heavy abdomen, stroking the stretched, sensitive skin. Clark shivered at the sensations coursing through him, the scent of strong arousal from his lover strengthening his need to be taken. It still surprised both of them, just how much Clark’s pregnant form affected Lex. As the pregnancy had progressed, Lex had noticed an increase in the need and desire he’d already had for his lover. Clark was just amazingly beautiful to him like this. Achingly hard, Lex quickly stripped off his clothes and helped Clark onto the bed. The only position they could feasibly manage nowadays was on their sides, Clark’s stomach supported by a pillow, but they both enjoyed it and Clark always felt even more loved. Lex spooned up behind Clark and slid one arm under his lover’s neck, reaching over Clark with the other to stroke his belly. He gently rocked his erection against his lover’s ass as he kissed his neck and shoulders. “Lex,” Clark moaned, “Lex, please.” “Hush, love, I’m here,” Lex whispered. He took the lube from its permanent home under the pillow and squeezed some onto his fingers. Shifting back, Lex stroked against Clark’s ass and slowly pushed two fingers inside him. Clark gasped quietly as they moved back and forth, scissoring to stretch him. They pressed down and stroked his prostate and Clark groaned in frustration. He *needed* completion. “Now,” he growled, finally losing control and pushing back hard against Lex. Moving quickly, Lex wiped lube onto his dick and held it to Clark’s ass, thrusting carefully into his lover. He gritted his teeth against the urge to just fuck Clark hard, even though he knew the younger boy wouldn’t object in the slightest; but the clinging, velvet heat of Clark’s ass tested his resolve. Pulling back immediately, Lex put his hand on Clark’s hip and pressed forward again. Clark gasped. There was almost nothing better than the sensation of Lex’s cock moving rhythmically in and out of his body. His lover’s hand slipped from his hip to his belly, rubbing the sensitive skin before moving down to grip his cock. Clark rocked forward with a moan and thrust back again, impaling himself deeply, shuddering as Lex’s cock stabbed his prostate. “God, love,” Lex breathed. Clark’s passage rippled round around his shaft and clamped down hard. “More,” Clark growled. His body was tight, his cock aching, with the need to come, and the need to feel Lex come inside him. Moving faster, Lex tightened his grip on Clark’s cock, stroking hard and fast. Clark twisted his head back and Lex claimed his mouth, possessively thrusting his tongue into the wet warmth. Heat coursed through Clark’s body, peaking in his groin as the tension finally released. Clark shuddered against Lex, moaning into his mouth, and Lex plunged forward once more into his lover’s convulsing ass, arms tightening round Clark as he came hard and deep inside the younger boy. They continued to kiss, more tenderly and as Lex withdrew, Clark carefully turned over, snuggling closer. Lex caressed his stomach and he sighed happily. “I don’t want to go home tonight,” Clark whispered, “I want to stay with you.” Lex sighed, “I know, love, I want you to stay.” “But?” Clark mumbled dispiritedly. “But you know how your parents feel about it,” Lex whispered, kissing Clark’s forehead. “Yeah, I guess. I just wish that sometimes they’d let me. It’s not as if they don’t know we have sex,” Clark said quietly. “It’s not something they want to think about though, is it?” Lex pointed out, “I mean, imagine it was our son.” Clark shuddered, “Okay, point taken.” “I wonder if he’ll be straight,” Lex mused. “Le-ex!” Clark exclaimed, poking his lover, “Didn’t we just agree, it’s something we don’t want to think about?” Lex smirked, “Sorry.” “Liar,” Clark huffed good naturedly, leaning forward to lick Lex’s neck. “Okay, fine, I wonder if he’ll have any of your powers,” Lex said with a chuckle, squirming under the wet tickling of his lover’s tongue. Clark sighed. For some reason, considering it was a pretty obvious question, he hadn’t even thought about it. “God, I hope not.” Lex frowned in confusion, “What? Why?” he asked. “It’s horrible growing up like this, Lex, never knowing what’s going to happen next, all the hiding and secrets,” Clark whispered. “Baby, I hate to say it, but he’s already going to have secrets,” Lex said quietly, “The fact that his parents are both men, and that one’s an alien. Pretty big secrets.” Groaning, Clark buried his face against Lex’s chest. “God, how are we going to do this, Lex? Every time I think it’s going to be okay, there’s something else to worry about.” “Clark, it’ll be fine, I know it.” Lex hugged his lover close, determined that Clark wasn’t going to worry about everything. “It’ll be years before we have to worry about that anyway.” “We hope,” Clark mumbled, breathing Lex’s scent in deeply to stay calm. “Clark,” Lex said with a frown, “Just try and focus on the day to day. We’ll get through this together.” “Sorry,” Clark sighed and lifted his head, pulling a rueful smile. He sat up slowly and manoeuvred round on the bed. “Where are you going?” Lex asked with a pout. “Bathroom,” Clark grimaced. “Oh, okay.” Lex managed not to chuckle. It hadn’t gone down at all well the first time Clark had wet himself and Lex had laughed. He rubbed the back of his head; the bruise from where Clark had shoved him and he’d smacked the wall had long faded, but still. Luckily, Clark had been so concerned about hurting him, there hadn’t been an argument or tearful scene over it. Lex was just relieved that he was the only one Clark would turn to when he did wet himself; he couldn’t stand it if Clark went to anyone else, even his parents. And really in Clark’s condition, they didn’t need Lex getting possessive and causing his lover to lose control. Clark walked slowly back into the bedroom, flushing a little under his lover’s intense gaze. Even though he could positively feel the heat in Lex’s eyes, his huge belly still made him feel insecure. “Come here, gorgeous,” Lex said quietly, sensing Clark’s hesitation. Grinning, Clark got back onto the bed carefully and cuddled back up to his lover. Lex gently stroked his stomach, almost tickling him with the whispering caress. “It’s not going to be long now, is it?” Clark whispered. “I don’t think so,” Lex replied quietly. “I’m scared.” Clark buried his face in Lex’s neck. “I know, baby, we all are,” Lex sighed quietly, “But I’m certain it’s going to be okay. You’re invulnerable, and I’m sure the baby is too.” “I hope so,” Clark whispered. @>*~ “So then James said…” “Holy shit!” Pete and Chloe stared at Clark in shock, then concern. Their friend was white as a sheet, face screwed up with pain. “Clark?” Chloe whispered worriedly. “What’s wrong?” Pete asked, “What’s going on?” Clark whimpered as pain wracked his body. “Lex,” he groaned, “I need Lex.” “I’m calling an ambulance,” Chloe said decisively. “No!” Clark exclaimed. “But Clark, this is stupid. It’s been over a month now, you need that thing cut out of you now!” Chloe protested. “No ambulance,” Clark hissed through gritted teeth, “I need Lex.” “What thing?” Pete asked quietly, hurt that Chloe seemed to know something he didn’t. “He’s got a tumour,” Chloe blurted out. “Oh my God,” Pete gasped, “Clark, we’ve got to get you to a hospital.” “No. Hospitals!” Clark repeated. “But Clark…” “No! God damn it, Chloe, just get Lex, please!” Clark exclaimed. Chloe stared for a second, then nodded, hurrying to the phone to call her friend’s lover. @>*~ Lex was in the middle of a call to his father when his cell went off. “That won’t work for me, Dad,” he continued to his father as he checked caller ID. It was Clark. “Hang on,” he interrupted Lionel’s rant, “I have an important call.” He put the receiver on the desk and answered the other phone. “Clark?” “Lex, it’s Chloe, something’s wrong with Clark and he won’t let us call an ambulance.” Lex leapt to his feet and grabbed his jacket. “No ambulances, Chloe, just hold tight, I’m on my way,” he said urgently as he hurried to his car. “Okay, fine,” Chloe sighed, “I don’t see why not though. If that thing’s causing him that much pain, he should get it cut out now.” “He’s not a thing!” Lex groaned as he heard Clark shout in the background. “What?” Chloe asked, startled. “Tell Clark I said to shut up,” Lex snapped out before cutting the call short and tearing up his driveway. @>*~ “Clark, what did you mean?” Chloe asked quietly. “Nothing,” Clark said nervously. He’d heard Lex’s last words on the phone. What a stupid thing to say, but he’d just reacted; he couldn’t stand their son being referred to as something that needed to be got rid of. “Clark,” Chloe started in annoyance. “Nothing!” Clark shouted as another contraction ripped through him. He gripped the side of the couch tightly, not really caring as he heard the wooden frame crack. The pain was so much worse than he’d expected, bearing down from his stomach and lower back into his bowels. “Fuck!” he panted, trying to breathe. “Clark, please,” Chloe whispered, getting more worried by the second. “No,” Clark ground out, “Just get my Mom.” Pete stood up, “I’ll go.” He needed to do something other than stare at Clark helplessly. “Hurry,” Chloe nodded. The pain eased again and Clark lay back on the couch breathing heavily. “Where’s Lex?” he groaned, “I need Lex.” “He’s coming, Clark.” Chloe hovered, not having a clue what to do. She was terrified and confused. Why were both Clark and Lex so adamant that they not call an ambulance? She just hoped Mrs. Kent would talk some sense into the couple. @>*~ Lex screeched to a halt in the yard and leapt out of the car to join Martha and Pete who were hurrying into the house. “Thank God you’re here,” Martha said to him. “I came as fast as I could,” Lex assured her. “I know. Come on, he needs us,” Martha nodded. “What’s going on?” Pete asked, watching as Lex sat on the couch next to Clark and Mrs. Kent crouched in front of her son. They ignored him. “Clark, honey, what’s happening?” Martha asked quietly. “He’s coming now,” Clark whispered. “Shit, Clark!” Lex sighed, glancing up at his lover’s friends. He could see the dawning understanding and shock on Chloe’s face. “Oh my God,” Chloe gasped, “You lied to me. You let me worry myself sick and all that time you really were pregnant!” “What?” Pete squawked, “Chloe, what are you talking about?” “Come on, Pete, look at him,” Chloe sighed. “Stop it, just stop it!” Clark whimpered. His stomach contracted again and he groaned in pain. “Lex, make it stop!” he begged. Lex hugged him tightly, “God, baby, if only I could.” “It hurts,” Clark whispered, trying not to give into the urge to clasp any part of his lover in case he crushed it. Martha stood up. “Chloe, Pete, I’m sorry, but I’m going to have to ask you to leave.” “No,” Chloe shook her head, “No way! I want the truth and I want it now.” Clark wailed in agony. “It’s too late,” he groaned, “They know too much already.” “Clark!” Lex protested. “Just, just tell them,” Clark insisted. He was in too much pain to worry about arguments right now. “Fuck!” he screamed, gripping the back of the couch hard. It snapped under the pressure and he and Lex nearly fell as the seat collapsed backwards. “Holy shit,” Pete gasped. As the pain eased again, Clark tried to sit up. “Okay,” Martha sighed, “Lex, take Clark upstairs, I’ll explain.” “I don’t think…” “I don’t think we have much choice,” Martha said firmly. “Fine,” Lex said with a frown. He was not happy at all with the situation. As far as he was concerned, the more people who knew, the more danger that put Clark and their son in. “Come on, love, let’s get you up.” He helped Clark to his feet and steadied him, guiding his lover up the stairs to his room. Clark could smell the anger exuding from his lover. “I’m sorry,” he whispered. “It’s not your fault,” Lex sighed, “I’m just worried about the consequences.” “We can trust them, Lex, I know it,” Clark said confidently. “I’m sure we can,” Lex replied, “I’m just not happy about having to.” “I know.” Clark settled on the bed, letting Lex help him remove his pyjamas and draw a sheet over his legs. “God, Lex, how is this going to work? Surely he can’t come out somewhere so small!” “You think women don’t wonder the same thing, Clark?” Lex raised an eyebrow. “Yeah but… oh God!” Clark gritted his teeth. “Another one?” Lex bit his lip in concern. He had no idea if this was normal and feeling helpless, especially where Clark was concerned, didn’t sit well with him. “Yes!” Clark screamed as his whole body seemed to contract excruciatingly. “Oh fuck, oh fuck, Lex, oh God, it hurts!” “I’m so sorry, baby,” Lex whispered, climbing on the bed to sit behind Clark, holding his lover tightly. The pain finally eased again and Clark panted hard, trying to recover his breath. “We are so using condoms from now on,” Clark gasped. Lex choked out a laugh, wiping surreptitiously at the tears that had leaked out beyond his control. He couldn’t stand seeing Clark in so much pain. “Lex, this is going to sound weird,” Clark started. He’d been fighting the urge, but it was becoming uncontrollable. “Nothing could possibly sound weird to me, love,” Lex assured his lover. Clark snorted, “This will.” “Clark, you know I will do anything that’s in my power to do for you,” Lex said quietly. “I want to suck you off,” Clark whispered. Lex blinked in shock, okay, so maybe it was weird. “You want… you want to give me a blow job? Now?” Clark nodded tensely. “Clark, I’m not even sure I could get it up with you in so much pain,” Lex started. “Please, Lex,” Clark breathed, “I’m losing control here.” “But your Mom…” “I need you,” Clark whispered. Oh God. The magic words, Lex couldn’t help responding to them, no matter how inappropriate the situation. “Clark, we can’t,” Lex started, but the hand slipping between them to squeeze his cock stopped him short. “Just let me get through this… agh!” Clark let go of his lover’s cock quickly as another contraction hit him. “You gotta let meeeeee!” he screamed. Lex’s arms tightened around him and he jerked against his lover, panting harshly against the pain. “Why Clark?” Lex asked as Clark started to relax again. “I don’t know,” Clark said in a tiny voice, knowing that if Lex refused, he’d do it anyway, and he really, *really* didn’t want to force his lover. “Please, I really need you, and I’m going to lose it soon.” “Oh fuck,” Lex whispered. How could he refuse? “Okay, give me a second.” He got up and locked the door, before sliding back onto the bed next to Clark. He sat up but tilted sideways, so that Clark could put his head in his lap. Clark immediately nuzzled against his groin, warm breath leeching through his pants to heat up his cock even further. Lex fumbled rapidly with his zipper, getting them undone as quickly as he could. “Yes,” Clark sighed, breathing in deeply. Somehow the scent calmed him completely and he leaned closer to get a taste. Lex bit down on his lip so that he didn’t make any noise as Clark’s tongue left a hot, wet trail up the length of his cock. “Need,” Clark breathed, then sucked his lover down, revelling in the taste and feel of the hard length in his mouth. Lex shut his eyes, breathing harshly already. Despite the incredibly surreal situation, he couldn’t help wanting his lover desperately. Clark’s mouth was hot and wet, creating the most amazing suction. He took Lex deep into his throat, swallowing round the head of his cock. “God, Clark,” Lex grunted, trying not to push deeper. Clark was almost desperate for Lex to come and he sucked harder, sliding his lover’s length in and out of his mouth as he worked it with his tongue. He started to hum, knowing the vibrations drove his lover mad. “Shit!” Lex had to bite down on his lip so he didn’t cry out as the tremors of his climax started to work through his body. Clark swallowed and Lex thrust forward helplessly as he came down his lover’s throat. He withdrew carefully and Clark sighed. “Are you okay, Clark?” Lex asked anxiously. “Very,” Clark said with a nod. Lex quickly did his pants back up and went to unlock the door, just as someone tried to open it from the other side. “Clark?” his mother called. Lex quickly let her in. “Why was the door locked?” Martha asked in confusion and worry. Lex flushed lightly and cleared his throat, “We, uh, just needed a moment of privacy.” Martha raised her eyebrow archly at the euphemism, “Really? Do you think that was a good idea?” “Yes!” Clark yelped from the bed as another contraction hit him, not nearly as painful as the previous ones. It was still more than enough to make him cry out and Lex hurried back to the bed, followed by Martha. “He’s moved again, I can feel it,” Clark hissed. Lex got onto the bed, slipping behind Clark again to hold him tightly. Once his lover had stopped panting from the pain, he turned to Martha. “How did Chloe and Pete take it?” he asked. “Not too badly considering,” she sighed, “But they insisted on staying.” “Great,” Lex snorted. “It’s okay,” Clark whispered, “I’d like at least some of my friends to know this baby is mine.” “Yeah,” Lex sighed, “I can understand that.” They’d arranged for both their names to be on the birth certificate, but their cover story was that an ex of Lex’s had died in labour and left the child with him. The Kents were going to be Godparents and be officially responsible for caring for the baby until Clark and Lex could legally come out and live together. That way, Clark and Lex could both still parent their son without raising suspicion… hopefully. @>*~ Clark lay cocooned in blankets and Lex’s arms, breathing heavily in exhaustion. It had been hours, and despite the relief sucking Lex off had somehow seemed to give him, the pain was still terrible, the contractions wearing. Chloe and Pete were still downstairs, every so often either his sight or hearing would go funny and he’d catch sight of them, or snippets of their conversation. His father had joined them after being shooed out of the room by his mother. Clark knew he was finding this harder than the rest of them. Lex was whispering quietly, mostly nonsense now, but words of love and support that took the edge off the taint of worry he could smell on his lover. He was too tired to even think of trying to lick the smell away. How or why anyone would have more than one child, Clark just couldn’t understand. After yet another contraction, Clark turned his head to look up at his lover. “You realise I’m never doing this again?” Lex smiled tightly, “Good, because I never want to see you go through this again.” Clark smiled and tipped his head back onto Lex’s shoulder, angling for a kiss. Lex gave it, and happily. If only he could do more. Seeing Clark in so much pain was killing him. Especially not knowing if this was normal for Clark’s race. It seemed to be taking forever, but Martha had assured him that women often went through much longer labours than this. Not that he cared about anyone else, Lex just wanted it to be over and both Clark and their son to be okay. “Oh,” Clark gasped. He could feel his son pushing down incredibly hard all of a sudden. “I think this is it.” “Clark, honey, I think it might be easier if you get on your knees and face the head of the bed for this,” Martha suggested. Clark groaned at the thought of moving, but Lex levered him upright and he turned, too tired to even worry about being half-naked in front of his mother. “It’s okay, baby, you’re doing fine,” Lex whispered, stroking Clark’s back soothingly. “So *you* say,” Clark snapped. Lex’s hand stopped moving and hovered hesitantly. “Don’t stop, Lex,” Clark whispered apologetically. Relieved, Lex began to stroke his lover’s back again. “Just breathe, Clark,” Martha said quietly, filled with worry. Clark bore down, pushing instinctively, biting down on his lip as pain tore through his bowel and he felt his gut being stretched to the limit. “Something’s going to give,” he grunted through gritted teeth. Lex winced and held him tighter. “Push, Clark, I think he’s crowning,” Martha whispered in awe. “Oh fuck, oh fuck,” Clark whimpered. It was excruciating as his anus tore under the pressure. “Lex,” Martha gasped, “Look.” Lex looked, sucking in an awed breath at the sight of the top of his son’s head, even as he worried about the sight of blood. “Oh God, baby, I can see him. You’re nearly there.” “I’d better be,” Clark gasped, “I can’t take much more of this.” “Breathe Clark,” Martha said anxiously. “I’m breathing!” Clark snapped, back arching against the pain as his anus was forced wider. “Shoulders,” Lex whispered, “Christ!” “Please,” Clark groaned, “Please, I want this to be over.” Martha reached over the bed and helped to ease her grandson all the way out. Finally, finally, it was over and Clark dropped forward, panting harshly. Lex took his son from Martha, gently washing away the mess, before wrapping him in a blanket. The tiny stump of what had presumably been an umbilical cord stuck out from the baby’s stomach. Lex stared at the tiny form of his son in awe. “Oh my God, Clark, he’s so beautiful.” He didn’t even realise he was crying until Martha handed him a Kleenex. He smiled gratefully at her. “Clark?” he whispered. “Oh fuck, I hurt,” Clark grunted. Martha gently wiped away blood and faeces, and helped Clark upright so he could see his son. Clark stared, all pain instantly forgotten at the first sight of his child. “Wow,” he whispered in awe. “Yeah,” Lex agreed. “Do you want to hold him?” Clark nodded avidly, blinking back tears. Lex carefully placed their son in his lover’s arms and wrapped his own around both. “I’m so proud of you,” Lex whispered, kissing Clark’s temple. “He’s perfect,” Clark said tearfully, “He smells sweet, Lex.” The baby snuffled, then whimpered quietly. “Uh, Mom, does he need feeding?” Clark asked worriedly. “Yes,” Martha smiled at her son, “But somehow I don’t think that’s going to be a problem.” She pointed at the damp patches on Clark’s pyjama top. “Oh you’ve got to be kidding me,” Clark sighed tiredly. “Clark, let me take him so you can put your pants back on,” Lex suggested, “I’m sure your father would like to see him.” Clark nodded and reluctantly handed his son back to Lex. Martha got up, “I’ll let them know.” “Thanks Mom.” Gingerly, Clark got dressed and carefully sat down on the end of the bed. Lex moved to sit next to him as he slipped his top off. “Oh man,” Clark sighed, staring down at his leaking nipples. “You’ll be fine,” Lex said quietly. He put their son carefully back in his lover’s arms and Clark lifted the tiny baby to his chest. A couple of attempts later, they both got it right and Clark blinked at the strange sensation of his son suckling. “Wow,” he breathed. “Definitely wow,” Lex agreed, gently stroking the soft down on top of his son’s head. There was a knock at the door and Jonathan stuck his head round it. “Hey, Dad,” Clark said with a soft smile, “Come meet your grandson.” Tentatively, Jonathan entered the room, staring in surprise. “You’re… b-breastfeeding,” he stuttered. “Yeah.” Clark grinned, “Isn’t he amazing?” Jonathan’s gaze softened at the sight of his tiny grandson. “He’s beautiful,” he agreed. Martha came back in, “Chloe and Pete would like to know if they can come up.” “Sure,” Clark nodded, despite Lex’s wary frown. “Let me change the bedclothes first,” Martha said, mostly to herself. Clark stood carefully and went to sit in his armchair. Lex perched next to him and put his arm round his lover’s shoulders. “I love you,” Clark whispered, looking up at him. Lex smiled softly, “I love you too.” The baby pulled away from Clark’s nipple and pulled a face before whining quietly. “As I recall it, you need to burp him,” Jonathan said, smiling at Clark’s worried look. “Just pat his back gently.” Clark sighed and shifted his son in his arms, very carefully patting his back. He was terrified that he might hurt his child with his strength. “You won’t hurt him, love,” Lex whispered, guessing what was on his lover’s mind. “Wow.” Came a soft gasp. Chloe blinked in shock. Even though Mrs. Kent had explained everything to them, it was still a shock to see Clark actually holding a newborn baby. “I’ll second that,” Pete whispered, looking over her shoulder. “Come on in Uncle Pete and Auntie Chloe,” Clark chuckled. “Oh wow, Clark, really?” Chloe gasped. “Of course.” Clark glanced at Lex, hoping he hadn’t overstepped the mark. Lex sighed, but smiled. A little bribery wouldn’t hurt. “What’s his name, Clark?” Pete asked quietly. Jonathan and Martha looked at the new parents curiously, neither of them knew what the boys had chosen. “We’re naming him after both grandfathers,” Lex smiled ruefully at Jonathan, “Just to placate Dad, you understand.” Jonathan nodded. “Jonel,” Clark whispered, “He’s called Jonel.” Epilogue, 2 years later Finally, it was really time. Clark hefted Jonel into his arms and stared round the room. It looked really strange so empty. “Dada,” Jonel mumbled with a pout as he looked round too. “That’s right, Jonny, we’re going to live with Daddy now,” Clark whispered, bending his head to bury his nose in his son’s thick, dark hair. While he was happy he was finally going to be living with his lover and their son as a family, they were moving to Metropolis, so it was more of a wrench than he’d thought it would be. But after two years, his parents were fully supportive, especially as Clark was going to college. Everyone had accepted their story. Not too many had even been surprised by Lex’s decision for the Kents to raise his son, they were more surprised that the Kents had agreed. Lionel had been a trickier matter; but in the end, he was too happy for Lex to have an heir without having a wife to distract him from business to protest too much. If only he knew. Clark had to smile. His lover’s father was going to have a shock when they came out. “Ready, love?” Lex asked, standing in the doorway of Clark’s old room. “Yeah,” Clark sighed. Lex smiled softly, “Are you sure you don’t want to wait?” Clark turned to smile at his lover, “I’m sure. I want Jonny to get used to the new place before I start University.” “Dada,” Jonel grinned at his father and reached out. “Hey kiddo,” Lex smiled at his son and lifted him out of Clark’s arms, swinging him around before giving him a hug. “He’s getting heavy,” he commented. “Yeah,” Clark smiled proudly, “Auntie Chloe could barely lift him last time we went over.” “Auntie Chloe funny, Pop,” Jonel laughed. Clark grinned, “Yes, she is.” “Come on, Jonel, let’s go and say goodbye to Nana and Granddad,” Lex said quietly, giving Clark a chance to have a final look round on his own. Clark smiled and turned back to stare at his room. Carrying Jonel, Lex headed downstairs where Martha and Jonathan were waiting. Clark’s and Jonel’s things were already on their way to Metropolis and the house looked strangely empty without toys scattered everywhere. It seemed weird to be leaving; the Kent farmhouse had become more of a home to him than any he’d shared with his father. “Where’s my baby boy?” Martha said with a somewhat forced smile. This was going to be a wrench for all of them. Jonel giggled, wriggling in Lex’s arms as he reached for his grandmother. “Nana, want cookie, Nana!” “What do we say, Jonel?” Lex said quietly. Jonel looked at his father thoughtfully, then his face lit up in triumph, “Please, Nana.” “Good boy!” Martha exclaimed, taking Jonel from Lex and carrying him into the kitchen. “You all set?” Jonathan asked, clapping a hand on Lex’s shoulder. “Yeah, I think so,” Lex replied, “It’s going to be hard on Clark for a while though.” “It’ll be hard on us all,” Jonathan said with a gentle smile, “We’ll miss *all* of you.” Lex swallowed and smiled back. “Thank you,” he whispered. Despite his continued discomfort with Clark’s often and sudden losses of control around Lex, Jonathan had made a real effort and they got along well nowadays. Especially once assured that Lex would *not* be getting Clark pregnant again. If only because Clark’s brief loss of invulnerability had worried him too much. Lex smiled to himself. While using condoms appeared to have worked, they had a strange effect on Clark and they seemed to have sex twice as often as before the pregnancy. Not that either of them minded in the slightest, Lex just wished they knew more about why it happened. Which is why they were taking Clark’s ship with them. Lex wanted to be able to study it properly, certain that it contained the answers. Clark flew down the stairs and gathered his lover in his arms, inhaling deeply. He wanted to get out of there before he started to get overemotional. If he got upset, he might affect Jonel; so far they’d managed to get their son excited about moving. “Let’s go,” he whispered. He let go of Lex to give his father a fierce hug. Jonathan smiled a little sadly, “Come on, son, you’re not going far.” “I know,” Clark sighed, “It’s just going to be weird.” “Pop, Pop, you want cookie?” Jonel said enthusiastically as Martha carried him back to the living room. He held out a half chewed cookie to his father. Clark chuckled, “No, thank you, Jonny, you eat it.” “Dada?” Jonel offered it to his other father. Lex managed not to pull a face at the mess in his son’s hand. “Thank you, Jonny, but I’m full up.” “Goodie,” Jonel grinned and stuffed the remainder into his mouth. “He definitely takes after you with food,” Lex laughed at his lover. Clark pouted mildly, “If he took after you, he’d never eat.” “True.” Lex shook his head and smiled. “Come here, Jonel, let Nana say goodbye to Pop.” Jonel wriggled out of Martha’s arms to the floor and toddled over to his father. Clark took his place, hugging his mother tightly. “My grown up baby,” Martha whispered. “I’m going to miss you.” “Me too, Mom,” Clark whispered into her neck. “I love you.” Martha pulled back and kissed his cheek. “I love you too, honey.” Surprising Lex, she gave him a big hug, “You look after my boys, you hear?” Lex smiled, “You can rely on me, Martha.” She smiled, wiping surreptitiously at her eyes. “Go on with you then, time to go,” she said quietly. Lex carried Jonel out to the car and strapped him into his seat, while Clark said a final goodbye. Clark slipped into the car beside him and smiled. “Let’s go.” Lex nodded and, with a wave to the Kents, he reversed out of the driveway. “Let’s go to our new home, Jonny.” Clark turned to grin at his son. “Yay,” Jonel said excitedly. “With my own room.” “That’s right,” Lex chuckled, “A very big room for such a little man.” “M’not little,” Jonel pouted, “I’m a big boy, Nana said.” Clark shared a smile with Lex, mouthing ‘I love you’. “Love you too, Clark,” Lex said quietly. @>*~ One Year Later “Clark!” Lex called excitedly, “I did it!” Clark stuck his head out of Jonel’s room where he’d been playing with their son. “Did what?” he asked in confusion. “Opened the ship,” Lex grinned, “God, I can’t believe how *stupid* I’ve been. I had the key all along and I didn’t even *see* it.” “Huh?” Clark was even more confused. Lex held up an octagonal piece of metal. “I thought the hole was part of the design.” Clark grinned, “I thought you were supposed to be a genius.” Lex pouted, “Hey, I am. I just couldn’t see the wood for the trees.” “Uh huh, sure,” Clark teased. “Right, no kiss for you.” Lex crossed his arms over his chest and sniffed. Clark made the appropriately contrite face and shuffled over to his lover. “Aw, I’m sorry, baby, did I hurt your feelings?” Lex’s mouth twitched and Clark grinned. “Damn you, Clark, I can never keep a straight face with you,” Lex huffed. He grinned and leaned up to kiss Clark gently. “Are you coming?” “Of course,” Clark replied still snickering. “Jonny, come on, we’re going to see Poppa’s ship.” “Kewl!” Jonny bounced out of his room. “Kewl?” Lex raised an eyebrow, “He watches far too much TV.” “Never!” Clark exclaimed in mock horror. “And who is it, *exactly*, who lets him, hmm?” “Shut up,” Lex said sulkily. “C’mon daddies, let’s go,” Jonel bounced enthusiastically. “Yeah, come on, Daddy,” Clark poked his lover gently. Lex harrumphed, but led his family down to his basement lab. He replaced the key and stepped back. The ship floated into the air, emitting strange lights and sounds. As Clark approached it, it moved towards him. He reached out and tentatively and touched it. With a soft hissing noise, it opened. An image of a man appeared and began to speak in a language neither of them understood. “Um, hello?” Clark said nervously. “Kal-El, son of Jor-El, you have grown.” Clark blinked, “Uh, yeah.” “How many years since I went offline?” “Fifteen,” Clark ventured. “Then I am glad to see you well. And a parent.” The image raised an eyebrow, “You are old to have such a young child.” “I am?” Clark asked in surprise. “In Earth terms, you are twenty years old. On Krypton, children are usually born earlier.” “It was early enough,” Lex muttered. “Kal-El, will you introduce me to your mate?” “I’m Kal-El?” Clark asked to be sure. “Yes.” “And Krypton is?” Clark continued. “Your home planet.” “Wow,” Clark breathed. Lex squeezed his shoulder supportively. “Okay, this is Lex Luthor, the father of my child.” “Indeed, I see much of him in the young one. You are fortunate to have found a human so compatible.” “We have questions,” Lex started. “Of course.” Lex glanced at Clark, but his lover gestured for him to start. “Clark, uh, Kal-El is very attracted by my scent, is that normal?” Lex asked. “Indeed. It is our way of recognising our mates and their suitability for procreation.” “And are all males able to reproduce in this way?” Lex continued. “No. Normally in homosexual couples, one partner is adapted to become the child bearer. Kal-El was modified, although earlier than usual, firstly because it was known he was homosexual, and secondly, once Jor-El determined the destruction of Krypton, he knew his son would be needed for the continuation of his race.” “Destruction?” Clark whispered. “As Jor-El predicted, Krypton’s star went supernova, the planet was destroyed. It is likely you are the only survivor.” “Oh God,” Clark gasped, sitting down heavily. “Poppa?” Jonel asked in confusion. “It’s okay, Jonel, Poppa’s just had some bad news,” Lex said quietly, gently ruffling his son’s hair. “Why do I lose control?” Clark asked suddenly. “It is linked with the instinct to procreate; you were modified to be recipient. Your mate’s scent, particularly under certain conditions, affects your mating drive.” “But, why then did it continue to affect him after he became pregnant?” Lex asked in confusion. “You are human.” “Can you explain more than that?” Lex sighed in frustration. “Of course. Your scent supported Kal-El through his pregnancy. Also, as half of Jonel’s DNA was human, it was being degraded by his Kryptonian DNA. Constant input was necessary to maintain his development.” Clark blinked again. “There was one time where our, uh, mating was very intense and Lex had barely any scent afterwards. Why did that happen?” “You were already pregnant?” “Yes.” Clark nodded. “Were you apart for any length of time?” “Yes, three days.” The image looked as shocked as a computer program could. “You are lucky the child survived without the renewal of his DNA for such a length of time.” Clark paled, “Oh God, Lex.” “Hush, love, you didn’t know, and he wasn’t hurt,” Lex hastened to reassure his lover. Clark still didn’t look happy and Lex glared at the image. “I have one more question, for now,” Lex said quietly, “Then maybe we should leave you with the ship for a while.” “Okay,” Clark said uncertainly. He wasn’t sure he *wanted* to know anything else. “Kal-El’s skin changed during the pregnancy, it could be damaged, why?” Lex asked. “To accommodate the growth of the child and the birth.” “Of course,” Lex muttered. He gave Clark a soft kiss. “It’ll be fine, love, you know you have questions. I’ll take Jonel back upstairs.” Clark nodded reluctantly. “Come on, kiddo,” Lex held out his hand and Jonel took it, “Let’s go play.” “Not war this time, please,” Clark called after them. “Spoilsport,” Lex called back. Clark smiled, then took a deep breath before turning back to the ship. “A worthy mate.” “I think so,” Clark said quietly. “You have a strong child, he will inherit much from you.” “Really?” Clark sighed. “Indeed, all his DNA will have been converted to Kryptonian once he was fully formed. He will develop much the same way you have.” “Oh great.” @>*~ “Lex?” “Mmm?” “Are you still awake?” Lex sighed quietly, “Yeah. What’s wrong?” “Jonel’s going to be just like me,” Clark whispered. Lex frowned, “What?” They’d already discussed what the ship had told them, but this was new. “Not completely surely? I mean he’s only half Kryptonian.” “Yes and no,” Clark admitted. He’d been really worried about Lex’s reaction, which was why he hadn’t told him before. But he hadn’t been able to sleep with it still on his mind. “How do you mean?” Lex asked. “Well, yes, as in he’s half you, and no, as in all his DNA was converted to Kryptonian form,” Clark said worriedly. “Oh.” Lex said quietly in shock. It was almost like being told he wasn’t Jonel’s father, and that tore at his heart. “I…” “He’s still yours,” Clark whispered, smelling the sheer misery on his lover, “I promise. Your DNA was just converted, he’s still half you, I promise, Lex.” Lex blinked back tears and nodded, “I believe you, Clark, it’s okay. I mean, at least we know he’ll be invulnerable; I’ll worry less.” “True,” Clark agreed, moving to enfold his lover in his arms, starting to lick his neck. “I just wish he could be more normal. I hated growing up like this.” “Clark, who’s normal?” Lex asked, bending his head to give Clark better access. “We talked about this, remember?” “Yeah,” Clark muttered, losing focus as his concentration turned to removing the taint of sadness from his lover’s skin. “Mmm, that’s good,” Lex sighed, “Don’t worry so much, okay?” “I’ll try,” Clark whispered, “Love you.” “Love you too, baby,” Lex whispered back. end