Chapter 11: Galas, Christmas and Sickness, oh my....

 

The next morning the Kent family was met by Enrique knocking at the front door at 7 AM.  All three Kents had to laugh at this, because when Lex said first thing in the morning they in no way thought he meant 7 AM, just some time in the morning hours.  Martha ushered the man into the house while Clark finished gathering some things to take back to the hospital, he was now semi-happy to be returning to Metropolis due to the fact that Lex was probably waiting for him on the landing pad at LuthorCorp.  After Clark had collected the few items that he wanted, he thumped down the stairs with his belongings in hand.

 “I'm ready” Clark said looking at the three adults that seemed to be in some sort of conversation. 

 “Dear why don't you go to the kitchen and get the bag sitting on the table?  I made you something for the ride to Metropolis.”  Martha said watching Clark with worry in her eyes.  She had heard Clark coughing on more than one occasion and he always just pushed it off as no real concern.  She was beginning to wonder if maybe Lex was right to get Clark a full check up when he got back.  Clark arrived back with bag in hand and a sad smile on his face.

 “Ready” Martha said looking at Jonathan and Enrique.

 “Let's go” Jonathan said before making his way to the door to hold it open for everyone.  Once the house was locked and they were in the car, Martha and Jonathan began to tell Clark about how they would try to get him home for Christmas if possible.  Clark brightened at the idea of spending Christmas at home rather than at the hospital, but he would wait until the next month to even ask about going home with Dr. Julie Rowley.  They arrived to Luthor Castle where a helicopter was waiting for Clark.

 “Now be safe” Martha said while fussing with Clark's jacket and scarf that she had knitted to go with the hat he always wore.

 “Mooooom” Clark whined as it seemed as if Martha wasn't going to let him go.

 “Clark, just promise me you will be careful on the trip” Martha stated in her no nonsense voice.

 “Okay mom, I promise I will be careful.  It won't be that long of a flight anyway, I am only going to Metropolis and Lex will be on the other end waiting for me.”  Clark said while trying to get his mother to calm down, so that she would let him leave.

 “Okay, okay now go before you get sick.”

 “Bye” Clark said hugging his mom and dad before making his way over to the running helicopter.

 “Love you” Martha said before the doors closed and Clark couldn't hear anything that they were saying.  As Martha and Jonathan watched the helicopter take flight, Clark sat on the inside thinking already about what he would get the loved ones in his life for Christmas, especially Lex.  This would be their first Christmas as a couple and he wanted to get something that was meaningful to both of them.  The flight to Metropolis was quick and Clark wasn't able to think up anything to get for either his parents or Lex.  As the helicopter pilot shut down the craft, the door was thrown open by Lex.

 “Clark” Lex yelled as the propellers slowed down.  Clark beamed at the man standing in front of him.

 “Hi” Clark said and then waved.  Once the craft was safe for Clark to leave, Lex grabbed his hand and dragged Clark away.

 “My stuff” Clark protested before Lex cut him off.

 “Some one will get it and put it in the car” Lex said still pulling Clark inside the building like a little kid in a toy store.  Clark just had to laugh at the way that Lex was acting.  Once they arrived to Lex's office, Clark was pushed on the couch and started down by Lex.

 “Lex” Clark said trying to figure out what he had done to get the look that he was getting from Lex now.

 “Clark” Lex threw back at Clark.

 “Lex what is going on?”  Clark said concerned for the way that Lex was acting.

 “I spoke with your mother before you got here, and she said that you are getting sick” Lex said kissing Clark briefly before standing a good distance away.

 “Why” Clark asked his face showing the hurt that he felt at Lex going behind his back about something.

 “I was worried about you”

 “Why” Clark asked again before coughing a bit.

 “Because of that” Lex said holding on to Clark.  He didn't want to think what would happen if he lost Clark now that they had started something as amazing as this.

 “It's nothing” Clark said waving off the concern he heard in Lex's voice.

 “It is not “nothing” and you know it Clark, just humor me and have Dr. Rowley check you out.”  Lex said running a hand over Clark's cheek.

 “Leeeex” Clark whined, but he knew that Lex was right.  His cough hadn't gotten better and he was beginning to feel as if he was hit by a train with his chest as the focal point.

 “Clark, please” Lex said and knew the minute that Clark caved under his plea.

 “Alright” Clark said and then made to get up.

 “Where do you think you are going?” 

 “To go and get checked out, the sooner we do so that sooner we will know if I am sick or not.”  Clark making his way toward a large set of double doors, as he opened the doors Lex was one step behind him.

 “Let's go” Lex said striding out into the lobby area where an admin was sitting.

 “Mr. Luthor” the woman with brown hair with strategically placed blonde highlights called out to Lex.

 “Yes, Samantha” Lex said not really paying attention to the woman sitting the reception area.

 “Your father was looking for you earlier” she said eyeing Clark as if he was some sort of parasite.  Clark curled into his self as best he could due to the woman's look.

 “I'll speak with him later, thank you” Lex said watching as Clark became more and more nervous around the Admin that was manning the desk.

 “Clark let's get you to the hospital” Lex said grabbing Clark's hand and pulling him along the corridors.  Once they arrived to Lex's private elevator that would take him to the garage he questioned Clark about the way he acted.

 “Are you okay”

 “She was looking at me funny” Clark said still trying to curl in a ball while standing up.

 “She gives every one how isn't a Luthor “funny looks”.” Lex said using air quotes around the words funny looks.  Clark had to laugh at the way that Lex sounded.

 “Sure” Clark said as they rode the elevator down to the garage.  Once there Lex walked over toward the SUV that he had driven back in.

 “Like it that much” Clark said laughing as Lex got into the SUV.

 “It is a surprise to actually drive something like this” Lex said trying and failing to sound prim and proper for Clark.  He was glad that Clark could still be the same person even after all that he had gone through in such a short period of time, he could only hope that he would be there for Clark for the rest of his life.  The ride back to the hospital was filled with Clark talking.

 Clark and Lex arrived to the hospital laughing and joking about the people of Smallville.

 “Ready” Lex questioned Clark as they made their way into the hospital together.

 “As I'll ever be” Clark said trudging along next to Lex.

 “It won't be bad” Lex said smiling at the puppy dog eyes that Clark gave him.

 “I don't wanna go back” Clark whined.

 “Well” Lex said not knowing what to say to Clark about that, both were silent on the way back to Clark's room.  Once there Clark changed out of his clothes into his “hospital wear” and began to wait for Dr. Rowley for his check up.

 “Clark, Lex” Dr. Rowley said a few minutes later as she entered the room.

 “Hi” Clark whispered, not wanting to find out that he was sick.

 “So how is it going” Dr. Rowley said well checking Clark out physically.

 “Fin” Clark started before he began to cough.

 “That doesn't sound too good” Dr. Rowley said while listening to Clark's lungs.

 “I'm okay” Clark said trying to reassure both present that he was fine.

 “I don't think so” Lex said to Clark before moving over toward the bed and holding Clark's hand.

 “I must agree with Lex, here” Dr. Rowley said before moving around the room to gather supplies.

 “I am going to have Mary draw some blood and we are going to check your white and red blood cell counts.  I have a feeling young man that you have a cold, which could become very serious.”  Dr. Rowley said before moving out into the hallway to get Mary.  A moment later Mary and Dr. Rowley appeared, ready to draw blood.

 “Clark you're back”

 “Just got back” Clark said with a smile on his Mary.  Mary was his favorite nurse due to the fact that she always told him the latest gossip on the floor.

 “Good, good.  So I heard that you are sick, what did Dr. Julie tell you before you left?”  Mary said her tone hinting at the disappointment she felt.

 “I wasn't outside that long”

 “It must have been long enough”

 “I'm sorry” Clark said with tears in his eyes, he had really enjoyed his time away from the hospital and now they were making him feel like the worse kind of person for wanting to go outside.

 “Clark, it's okay” Lex said glaring at Mary.  Mary regretted what she said and continued to collect Clark's blood in silence.

 “The result should be back in about three hours” Dr. Rowley said before leaving behind Mary.  She to saw how sad Clark had gotten due to Mary's disapproval of Clark going outside, she knew that both Clark and Lex knew the risks and that they took every precaution before going but that still did not help in the long run.  Once the door was closed and Clark and Lex were alone, Lex began to speak.

 “Don't listen to her” Lex said sitting on the bed where Clark had taken up residence again.

 “But”

 “No buts Clark, we made sure that you wouldn't get sick.  We have no idea on whether you were sick before you left or after.”  Lex said running his hand down Clark's arm.

 “Lex” Clark whispered before tears started to run down his face.

 “Oh Clark” Lex said lying on the bed fully and pulling Clark to him.  It was some time later that Clark fell asleep in Lex's arm and Lex watching Clark, when Dr. Rowley came in with the lab results.

 “Lex” Dr. Rowley whispered.

 “Yes”

 “I have the lab results”

 “And”

 “It seems that Clark's red blood cell count is lower than usual”

 “And what does that mean”

 “Well it could mean many things but since Clark is showing all the signs of a cold, I would say that is what he has”

 “Is there anything you can give him?”

 “Well we will pump up his immune system by giving him some steroids and antibiotics.”

 “Okay” Lex said before looking down at the peacefully sleeping Clark.

 “Clark” Lex called out, while Dr. Rowley was still in the room.

 “Hmmm” Clark said before snuggling into Lex's side again.

 “Clark its time to get up” Lex said shaking Clark awake.

 “Lex” Clark said groggily.

 “Dr. Rowley needs to start your treatment for your cold”

 “'K” Clark said before sitting up a bit and looking around the room for the doctor.

 “Welcome back Clark, if I didn't say it before” Dr. Rowley said with a happy smile on her face.  Clark had taken her heart with his nice manners and quiet demeanor.

 “Hey Dr. J” Clark said waving to the woman in question.  Lex watched the pair and had to wonder if maybe Dr. Julie Rowley cared for Clark like a brother she never had.

 It was a few days later when Lex walked into Clark's room with the idea for the gala that was to take place in two weeks time.

 “Clark” Lex called out, waiting for his usual response of his name, but this time there was just silence.

 “Clark” Lex called out again and then made his way fully in the door and what he saw made his heart drop into his stomach, for there Clark was laying in the bed looking like death warmed over.

 “Clark are you okay?”  Lex said running up besides Clark's bed to see Clark up close.

 “No” Clark said before looking Lex in the eyes, to show how unwell he felt.

 “Let me get Dr. Rowley” Lex said before running out of the room and to the nurses' station.

 “Can some one page Dr. Rowley?”  Lex said panic in his voice.

 “Calm down, deep breath” Mary the nurse that Clark had taken a shine to said.

 “So what is the problem” Mary asked Lex, wondering if Clark had gotten worse in the short time that she had gone in there to check on him.

 “Clark” was all Lex had to say before Mary was off toward Clark's room.  Once they arrived Mary saw the problem immediately and dialed Dr. Rowley's pager number from the phone in the room.

 “Lex” Clark said weakly holding out his hand for Lex to take.  Lex took the hand rub the back on the hand with his thumb, worried that he wouldn't be able to express to Clark how much he meant to the older man.

 “Ssssh, rest; Mary is going to get Dr. Rowley over here to take care of things” Lex whispered to Clark while protecting Clark's huddled form.

 “Dr. Rowley, its Mary I'm in Clark Kent's room and I think you should come and check him out.  Things aren't looking good.....okay thanks” Mary said before hanging up the phone and watching as Lex comforted Clark.  She had to smile at the way that Lex was acting, ever since they had become friends again the older man was here until they kicked him out or on the phone with Clark until he fell asleep.  She was glad that both were equally affected by the other, because she shuttered to think what Lex would be like without Clark in his life.  A few minutes that Lex whispered to Clark shaking form, Dr. Julie Rowley walked in with concern etched on her face.

 “Mary” Dr. Rowley said pulling the nurse aside while watching as Lex calmed Clark as best he could.

 “He seems to be getting worse on the IV drip of antibiotics” Mary said concerned over whether or not Clark would make a full recovery, with this set back.

 “Let me order something else, he must be allergic to it” Dr. Rowley said before stepping up the bed and looking over the type of antibiotics that she had written out for Clark.  Lex noticed immediately that Dr. Rowley was in the room.

 “What is wrong with him” Lex said panic and anger in his voice, over what was going on with Clark.

 “I am pretty sure that Clark is having an allergic reaction to the antibiotics that I gave him for his cold; I am going to order something different to see if that helps.”  Dr. Rowley explained to Lex and Clark both.

 “Hurry” was whispered by Clark before he started shaking away.

 “Mary, remove the IV drip for the time being and get me 40 mg of prednisone” Dr. Rowley said noticing that Clark was quickly going down hill with the antibiotics in his system.  Mary moved quickly around the room to remove the IV and then ran out of the room to get the doctor the prescribe medicine.  Lex on the other hand was about to yell at some one when Clark's voice stopped him.

 “Lex” Clark asked faintly, like he didn't know what was going on around him.

 “I'm here Clark” Lex said running his hand over Clark's.

 “Good” Clark said while shivering due to the cold that he was experiencing.

 “Why is it so cold?”  Clark asked after a short pause.

 “Clark, it will get better” Lex said his voice cracking due to the tears that were making their way down his face.  He didn't know what he would do if he lost Clark, and he was just realizing how much Clark really meant to him.

 “'K” Clark said rolling over and putting his face in the crook of Lex's shoulder and neck.  Lex continued to rub Clark's back until Dr. Rowley and Mary came back in with a syringe filled with fluid.

 “Clark” Mary said drawing Clark's attention to the nurse.

 “Yeah” Clark said making to sit up a bit, but failing due to his weakened state.

 “Don't worry about that” Mary said before moving to the side of the bed and getting ready to give him the shot.

 “Clark, you are have a really, really bad reaction to the antibiotics that I prescribed for you.  So until they get out of your system I am going to give you a higher dose of prednisone” Dr. Rowley explained to Clark.  Clark just nodded his head and then stuck his arm out for them to put the drug in his veins via the IV that was still in his arm.  After Mary had administered it, the two made their way out of the room.

 “He should be feeling the effects of the prednisone soon” Dr. Rowley warned Lex.  Clark on prednisone was like some one on speed.  Lex nodded his head in understanding and waiting for Clark to wake again from sleep.  Two hours later, Clark woke feeling like he had been hit by a train.

 “Uuuh” Clark said looking around his room and saw that Lex was asleep next to him.  A small smile lit up Clark's face, due to the beauty that was Lex in sleep.  Stunned Clark was pulled by Lex down to lay on top of the other man.  Lex kissed Clark as if his life depended on it, after they broke for air Clark spoke.

 “Lex are you okay?” 

 “I'm fine” Lex said his voice tight due to the emotions he was trying to hide from Clark.

 “Don't lie to me, don't you trust me?” Clark said suddenly angry at Lex for hiding his feelings from him.

 “Clark, it's not that I don't trust you….it's that I don't trust my self to rein it in” Lex said trying to make Clark understand that it had nothing to do with him.

 “Lex” Clark said now understanding Lex's concern, so instead of wanting to know what was going on in Lex's head he hugged him.

 “It's okay Lex, I'm still here”

 “Good” Lex said before a few tears escaped his closed eyes.

 “Lex” Clark said pulling back and seeing the tears on Lex's face.

 “It's okay, they are going to have to drag me out of here” Clark said wiping away the tears off Lex's face.  Lex nodded twice before getting himself under control.  Clark noticed right away that Lex had gotten himself back under control and he was ready to change the subject.

 “So how was your day?”  Clark asked changing the subjects to something he knew Lex would be able to tell him about.

 “Well it seems my father is insisting that I take a date to the gala” Lex said making him self comfortable on the bed with Clark at his side.

 “So what are you going to do?”  Clark asked truly curious as to what Lex would do about the date issue.

 “Why bring you of course” Lex stated as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

 “I don't think that Dr. Julie will let me out Lex” Clark stated sad, that he wouldn't be able to go with Lex to the gala.  He had been secretly hoping that Lex would let him come, but now with this cold kicking his butt, he didn't think he was going to go anywhere any time soon.

 “You leave that to me” Lex said smirking at Clark.  Clark could only laugh, because if there was one thing to say about Dr. Julie Rowley was that she would stand up to any Luthor at any point in time if she thought that it would harm her patients.

 “Okay Lex” Clark said become snuggling down for Lex's visit.  Mary was in the process of kicking Lex out, once again when Dr. Rowley walked by.  Lex kissed Clark on the lips and jogged to catch up with her as she made her way to the elevators.

 “Dr. Rowley” Lex called out to get the woman's attention.  Dr. Rowley spun around and came face to face with Lex.

 “What can do for you Lex” she asked politely.

 “I was wondering would it be possible for Clark to go to the gala with me.” Lex said while his eyes got a glint in them that people described at the Luthor glint.

 “I don't think that is possible right now, with Clark having a cold and the allergic reaction to the antibiotics, his immune system won't need any extra stress and if I know one thing that gala is going to be stressful upon Clark.”  Dr. Rowley said before turning ending what she thought was the conversation.

 “No, Dr. Rowley I don't think you understand me.  I am not asking you if Clark can go, I am telling you Clark is going” Lex said his voice angry at the woman in front of him.

 “Then you are sending Clark to his death, there will be tons of people there all with perfectly functioning or close to perfectly functioning immune systems.  So even though they show no signs of sickness they could be carrying it, and Clark would be a magnet for that type of thing.  You need to keep in mind that Clark isn't at 100% and he might not be for a long, long time.  Don't push this Mr. Luthor.”  Dr. Rowley said trying to make Lex understand that although Clark acted like he was fine, he was in fact not okay he was far from okay.  Once the words hit Lex, he was amazed at the danger that he was going to put Clark in just to piss off his father.

 “I understand” Lex said looking very contrite about his words to the woman.

 “Its okay; we all have our moments, and I know you want Clark to be at your side for the gala, but it isn't the best idea.”  Dr. Rowley said sad that Lex wouldn't be able to show off Clark and how happy he was with he younger man.

 “Is it possible for me to come up when the gala is in session?”  Lex asked hopeful that he would be able to sneak away after the speech he was required to give.

 “I don't see a problem with it, just as long as the nurse on duty doesn't catch you.  I am more than fine with it.”  Dr. Rowley said with a smile on her face, due to the fact that Mary would be the on duty nurse that night.

 “So do you know who the nurse is?”  Lex asked, due to Dr. Rowley's smile.

 “Oh I don't know if I should tell you that Mary…..oh the name of the nurse on duty.”  Dr. Rowley said with a wink before making her way over to the elevators.

 “Dr. Rowley” Lex said before making his way to Clark's room to say good bye one more time.  Clark was sitting in the bed reading a book that looked to be in some Asian language.

 “Any luck” Clark asked Lex.

 “Dr. Rowley said that I shouldn't take you to the gala, due to the fact that you could get sicker and I don't want that; but I plan to sneak on up and spend my night with you.”  Lex said kissing Clark lightly on the lips.

 “How” Clark asked once they broke for air.

 “Well; Dr. Rowley said that she didn't have a problem with me coming up and visiting, but I had to make it past the nurse on duty.”  Lex said mischief in his eyes.

 “And who is the nurse on duty, because if it is Phoebe you are screwed” Clark said shivering with the thoughts of Phoebe.  Phoebe was a night nurse that was always trying to fix Clark up with her youngest daughter.

 “No, it's Mary” Lex said proud of that piece of knowledge.

 “Well then, you should have no problems” Clark said before leaning just a bit on Lex, due to the tiredness that overwhelmed him.  Lex kissed Clark cheek and then made his way over to the door to leave.

 “Where are you going?”  Clark said sleepily.

 “I have a nurse to speak with, I'll see you tomorrow.  Good night my love.”  Lex said standing in the door waiting for Clark's response.

 “Night my duša” Clark said before closing his eyes and falling right to sleep.  Lex waited a few moments just to make sure that Clark was really asleep before going off and finding Mary.  He had plans to make and Mary would be the one to help him on the hospital end.  Lex found Mary at the nurses' station writing in a patient's chart.

 “Mary” Lex said attracting the woman's attention.

 “Mr. Luthor” Mary said formally.

 “Call me Lex” Lex smiled a bit at the woman in front of him, she had save Clark's life only just a few hours ago.

 “Alright Lex, what can I help you with”

 “I want to have a small “date” with Clark, during the night of the gala” Lex said a bit self conscious of what he was about to propose.

 “Oh my, such the romantic” Mary said before giggling like a school girl.  Lex's cheeks pinked at the words.

 “Yes well, any way….” Lex started out, before getting interrupted by a beeping sound at the station.

 “Just a moment Lex” Mary said before going over to the call button area and finding out what one of the patients needed.

 “I'll be right back, have a seat” Mary said pulling out a desk wheely chair.  Lex took a seat and thought on how best to explain his plan to Mary.  A few minutes later Mary came back and smiled at Lex.

 “Okay, now what were you saying before?”

 “I want to have a date with Clark during the gala, and that is where you come in?”

 “What do you mean?”  Mary asked confused on why she would even have to help.  She of course would love to help, but Lex was a Luthor he didn't ask help from middle-aged women who were nurses.

 “Well Clark can't go to the gala, so I am bringing the gala to him; except with out all the people.  I would like to maybe use his or some room to have it decorated for a party.”  Lex said explaining the idea to Mary.

 “Oh that would be wonderful.  I think I can swing some things for a room.  Would you prefer to have it in Clark's room?”  Mary said turning pink at the idea of Clark and Lex together in bed.  She had been very, very hot when Lex had hopped into bed with Clark to calm him down earlier that day.

 “If you could, but I didn't think we would be able to keep him away from his room all day” Lex said trying to think up ways to keep Clark out of his room.

 “You leave that to us” Mary said already figuring out who was working then, and what they could do to keep Clark out of his room.

 “Alright” Lex said giving in because Mary had a handle on the situation.

 “What else can I do for you?”  Mary said getting excited about the planning of this mini-gala that Lex and Clark were going to have.

 “Nothing that I can think of right now” Lex said before standing up and making his way toward the elevators.

 “If you think of anything, just give me or one of the nurses a buzz” Mary said before watching Lex nod his head and then entering the elevator.

In the following weeks Lex spent as much time as he could with Clark, and also getting Mary and the rest of the night nurses, that were to be on duty that day, to help put the finishing touches on the plan for the mini-gala as they had dubbed it.

 “Clark” Lex said striding into the room, only to see Clark was not in the room.  He then heard a squeal from the down the hall, where the “play room” was that the children on the floor went to during the day.  There sitting in a chair, next to a boy and girl about 14, was Clark.

 “Clark” Lex said over the children that were yelling due to the game that they were playing.  Clark looked up at the call of his name.  The other two that were with him, stared in awe that Lex Luthor was in the “play room.”

 “Lex” Clark said before standing up to get a hug from Lex.  Clark knew better than to kiss Lex in front of the kids in the room.

 “How are you feeling?”  Lex said while running a hand down Clark's back.

 “Fine” Clark said relaxing under the heat from Lex's hand on his back.

 “Good, so what were you all talking about intensely” Lex said making his way over to a chair next to Clark.

 “Harry Potter” the girl said while the boy next to her just stared.

 “Harry Potter” Lex asked before turning to look at Clark with mirth in his eyes.

 “Lex just don't” Clark said before facing the two younger teens in the room.

 “I'm Elise and that there is Gavin” The girl said while nudging the boy to get him to pay attention.

 “Elise, Gavin; nice to meet you” Lex said properly before turning once again toward Clark.

 “Clark” Lex said wanting to get Clark away for the kids and to his room so that he could greet Clark properly.

 “Wait Lex” Clark said while smiling the ‘you shall be rewarded' smile.

 “Okay, okay” Lex said giving into Clark, it wasn't like he wasn't but he could make a show of it anyway couldn't he?

 “I still say that Snape isn't as evil and mean as most people think he is, I mean I will give you dark but not evil.” Gavin said finally getting over the fact that Lex Luthor was in the room and now talking to them.

 “Gavin you only say that, because you have the hots for Alan Rickman.  We aren't talking about the movies we are talking about the books.”  Elise said huffing at Gavin and his never ending thoughts that of all the people that were evil it was the headmaster of the school, Albus Dumbledore.

 “I must agree with Gavin” Lex said startling the other two people.

 “You read Harry Potter” Elise said amazed that Lex Luthor would read something like Harry Potter.

 “Oh course, who doesn't read Harry Potter?”  Lex said joking with the kids in front of him.

 “Lex, play nice” Clark said before they got back into their conversation over Harry Potter.  Twenty minutes later, Clark and Lex were saying their goodbyes to Elise and Gavin, before returning to Clark's room.  As soon as the door closed Lex made Clark sit on the bed, and then went into ‘mother hen' mode for the next few minutes.  Once Lex was happy with his assessment of Clark, he got on the bed and lay next to his love.

 “Hi” Clark said kissing Lex lightly on his lips.

 “Hello to you as well” Lex said looking into Clark's eyes.  That statement got a chuckle from Clark.

 “Always so proper”

 “That I am” Lex said before a comfortable silence blanketed the room.  Lex sat there thinking about the upcoming gala and how he was going to disappear with out his father knowing.  Clark on the other hand was thinking about Christmas and the fact that he hadn't gotten anything for any one.  Clark broke the silence with a question about the holidays.

 “Lex, what do you think I should get mom and dad for Christmas?” 

 “I honestly couldn't tell you” Lex said a bit perplexed as to why Clark was asking that question.

 “Lex you do know that Christmas is like a week and a half away” Clark said knowing now that Lex had no idea what month it was.

 “It must have slipped my mind, with the gala planning that I have been doing” Lex said trying to talk his way out of totally forgetting about Christmas.

 “Lex you aren't fooling me, you forgot plain and simple” Clark said laughing at Lex's face, Clark would only describe it as embarrassment and humor.

 “Okay so I forgot, it not a crime”

 “I know, but you didn't even get the hint by the snow and wreaths around the floor and outside.”

 “Fine why don't you rub it in some more”

 “Nah, I think I'll pass on that today.  Maybe tomorrow though”

 “Clark, don't you dare”

 “Fine, fine I won't but you gotta help me find some presents for mom and dad”

 “Clark”

 “No Lex, you gotta help me.  I can't leave the hospital so I need someone to go and gift their gifts.” 

 “Fine” Lex said before sighing, he really didn't want to go out in the ‘Christmas Shopping Fever' that occurred at about this time of the month.  Clark smiled a smile that made Lex understand just why he would do anything for the younger man that he was in bed with.

 “Mom has been eyeing the Ikea catalogue and she wants one of the duvet cover sets, for their room.”  Clark said thinking hard on the name of the set, but coming up blank.

 “Ikea, I have to go to Ikea?”  Lex said with horror clear in his voice, since the store had opened a little over five months, people had flocked to the store as far away as South Dakota.

 “Please” Clark said giving Lex his best puppy dog eyes.

 “Okay fine, but you owe me” Lex said trying to stay mad at Clark but failing.

 “So what do I need to get your father?”  Lex asked hopping it wasn't anything as bad as having to brave the Ikea crowd.

 “Oh well he just really wanted this cool John Deere shirt that we saw at the feed store, but he said he wouldn't get it.  So I was thinking that and maybe something from Ikea since you will already be there.

 “Clark” Lex said in a warning tone, he really didn't want to do this wrong and Clark was making it hard for him to do this right.

 “Lex don't worry about it, just get something nice and I will pay you back when I get out” Clark said worried that Lex wouldn't do it.

 “Alright, but as I said before you owe me” 

 “Alright” Clark said pulling Lex close and kissing him.

 “And what will you be getting your duša?”  Lex asked curious to know what Clark had in mind for him.

 “I'm not telling; mom is going to help me on that” Clark said making Lex want to know even more.  The rest of the visit and the following days occurred like that; Lex asking what Clark was getting him and Clark responding that he wasn't telling Lex.

 The day of the gala found Clark sitting in bed with a frown on his face.  He had just gotten a call from Lex that sounded as if his visit would be later than usual; Clark was a bit disappointed at the change in schedule but hopeful that the reason why Lex would be late was because he was getting Clark those presents for his family.

 “Good morning!” Mary said in a sing-songy voice.

 “Mary” Clark said with a smile on his face, he loved this nurse.  She seemed to always know how to brighten Clark's attitude.

 “So where is that love of yours?”  Mary asked while taking Clark's vitals.

 “Dunno, he just called and said he would a bit late today, I was hoping that he would have already gotten my gifts for my mom and dad.”  Clark frowning again at Lex not being there with him.

 “Well” Mary started out before Clark cut her off.

 “I think he waited for the last minute to go to Ikea like I asked him to do.”

 “That place is a zoo and it doesn't matter which day you go” Mary said stunned that Lex would go to Ikea four days before Christmas.

 “Yeah, I told him it would have been easier to buy the stuff online, but he said that I asked him to buy it at Ikea and so I think he is going to the store.”  Clark said smiling at the idea of Lex in Ikea and being mauled by all the women in the store; because Clark was sure of one thing and that was that Lex was sex personified. 

 “May god have mercy on him” Mary said before asking Clark the question that had been burning everyone curiosity.

 “So what did you get Mr. Luthor” Mary said still not comfortable with calling Lex, Lex.

 “Oh” Clark said while a blush stained his cheeks.

 “Clark” Mary said wondering what Clark had gotten Lex, that would make him this embarrassed.

 “Promise not to laugh” Clark asked hoping that Mary would approve of what Clark and his parents had decided what Clark would get Lex.

 “You know I won't” Mary said now even more excited to see what Clark had gotten Lex. 

 “Here” Clark opening the bedside table drawer and pulling out a small jewelry box, which had yet to be wrapped.  Mary took the offered box and opened it, what Mary saw inside about made her want to hug and cry on Clark.

 “It's perfect” Mary said eyeing the ring with envy.

 “You sure” Clark said still worried that what he had gotten, wasn't the best idea.

 “Positive” Mary said nodding her head while never taking her eyes off of the ring that sat on the small velvet pillow.

 “What is the writing on the ring” Mary said finally taking the ring out of the box to examine the writing on the ring.

 “Oh I had Lex's name that I call him engraved on it” Clark said hoping that Mary wouldn't ask what Clark's pet name was for Lex.

 “And that would be?”  Mary said holding the black ring with silver writing on it, in her hand.

 “Oh well, my duša” Clark said turning bright red again.

 “duša?” Mary asked confused as to what Clark was saying.

 “It is Serbian for heart, because that is what Lex is; my heart” Clark said smiling a goofy smile that had Mary's heart melting.

 “Wow” Mary said putting the ring back in the box and handing it back to Clark.

 “So you think he will like it” Clark said waiting for Mary's response, instead of Mary responding a male voice spoke.

 “Who will like what?”

 “Lex” Clark said happily that had both Mary and Lex laughing at the excitement in Clark's eyes, at seeing Lex.

 “Clark, who will like what” Lex said making his way over to the bed to kiss Clark.

 “You and your Christmas present” Clark said kissing Lex back after he spoke.

 “Well how about you give it to me now and I will tell you on whether or not I will like said gift.”  Lex said trying to hide his excitement at Clark getting him a gift.

 “Nope, you wait until Christmas just like everyone else I got gifts for” Clark said hiding the small box under his pillow.  Lex didn't notice the move due to Mary speaking with Lex.

 “Mr. Luthor” Mary said before motioning with her hand for Lex to follow her out of the room.

 “Be right back” Lex said before kissing Clark again before leaving the room.  Once outside and a safe distance away from Clark's door, Mary spoke.

 “Every thing is set for tonight” Mary said beaming at getting Lex's plans set up with out a problem.

 “Good” Lex said nodding his head and going over the list of things that needed to be taken care of before the gala was to begin.

 “So is there anything else I need to do?”  Mary asked eager to help.

 “No, at least not right now” Lex said before trying to get information about his gift from Mary.

 “So about my gift” Lex said casually as if it was everyday that he worked to get gift information out of people.

 “I'm not telling” Mary said shaking her finger as Lex and then walked away.  She knew better than to stay there with Lex, because he would have had her spilling the beans in no time, and that was something that she really, really, really didn't want to do.

 “Come on” Lex said trying not to sound whining.

 “Mr. Luthor, you can wait.  Christmas isn't that far away” Mary said over her shoulder back to Lex, who still stood in the hallway.

 “Fine” Lex mumbled under his breath before making his way back to Clark's room.

 “So what did you want to talk to Mary about” Clark asked Lex as soon as he made his way into the room.

 “Just wait” Lex said coming over to Clark and then kissing him again.  He couldn't seem to get enough of Clark, and that was partly due to the fact that his father had been putting more and more demands on his free time, and that meant not as much time with Clark.

 “Okay” Clark said getting comfortable in bed, so Lex could lie down as well.  It was a couple hours later, which had Lex leaving Clark to get ready for the gala.

 “I'll see you later” Lex said running a hand down Clark's cheek.  He really didn't want to go to the gala, but he had to because he was the one that had given the donation for the cancer center.

 “Okay, you'll try and come visit during the gala right?”  Clark said with a sad look in his eyes, he would like to be at Lex's side tonight, but Dr. Julie had vetoed that idea as soon as Lex put it to her.

 “You know I will” Lex said before kissing Clark and then moving toward the room's door.

 “Duša, love you” Clark said in a small voice due to the tears that were trying to make their way out.

 “Love you too” Lex said before leaving the room so that he could get ready at the penthouse.  Lex drove back the penthouse with his mind of the plans for the evening with Clark, once he arrived to the top floor of the “LuthorCorp Living Community” he was shocked to see Desiree Atkins at his door.

 “Lex” Desiree said with a smug smile on his face, Lex could only think of one thing and that would be that his father would pay for allowing her up here.

 “Miss. Atkins” Lex said standing near the door but not opening it.

 “Well aren't you going to invite me in?” 

 “No” Lex said still standing outside the door.

 “Well why not, I am to be your date for tonight” Desiree said with a smirk on her face.

 “Actually, you are to be my father's date.  I already have a prior arrangement” Lex said before smirking at the look on Desiree's face.

 “But….but….but” she stuttered out.

 “Where you under the impression that you were to be my date, after what you have done” Lex asked her as if she was the most stupidest person he had ever met.

 “Well” Desiree said now not certain about what was going on.

 “I think you may need to call my father and get clarification upon your duties tonight; for he knew that I have already set something up.”   Lex said before opening the penthouse doors and then closing them in Desiree's face.

 “Thanks dad” Lex said the empty penthouse.  Lex made his way to his bedroom, to see that a garment bag lay on the bed.  When he unzipped it, it was to see a dress that Lex assumed was for Desiree.  It seemed as if his father had thought of everything for this night, what he hadn't counted on was that Lex had a plan already in motion and nothing his father could do would stop him from fulfilling this plan.  Because if all went well tonight, he would be engaged to Clark, a beautiful smile lit up his face at the thought.

 “Soon my love” Lex said before going into his closet and getting one of the suits out to wear for the gala.  Lex got ready in silence and when he exited the penthouse with a bag over his shoulder, he was met with Desiree Atkins still standing outside the door.

 “Miss. Atkins still here, I see” Lex said with a smirk on his face due to the face that Desiree had a lost look on her face.

 “Yeah, uh I spoke with your father and he said that my dress and things were in the penthouse and that you needed to let me in.”  Desiree said gaining back some of the calm she had before.

 “Ah yes, I noticed them.  I placed them in the living room” Lex said opening the door for her and motioning toward the pile that sat on the couch.

 “Great” Desiree said before bounding over to the pile to see all that Lionel Luthor had gotten for her for this night.  She was so into her inspection that she didn't notice that Lex closed and locked the door behind him.  Lex made it to the lobby before anyone spoke to him about Desiree.

 “Mr. Luthor” an older man about fifty spoke to Lex.

 “Mr. Welsh” Lex said with respect in his voice, for the other man.

 “Your father let a Miss. Atkins up to the penthouse”

 “Yes, I noticed” Lex said sneering at the thought of Desiree.

 “Should we get her a car” the man asked Lex.

 “No, call my father and let him know that his date is ready for him to pick up.”  Lex said with glee, oh his father would be livid at Lex for leaving Desiree there but it was his own fault for thinking that Lex would bow to his father's every whim.

 “Will do sir” the man said before picking up the phone and calling Lionel Luthor.  Lex didn't stick around for when his father would ask for him, because he knew his father would some how get Lex to take the woman upstairs with him and he didn't want to do that.  A short drive later, found Lex back at the hospital that he had just left.

 “Mr. Luthor” Dr. Rowley said surprised to see Lex dressed and looking the part of Luthor heir.

 “Dr. Rowley” Lex said with a nod of his head.

 “So do you have some plans” she was smirking at what she had heard from Mary.

 “You could say that” Lex said before strolling off and greeting the people that were arriving for the gala.  Dr. Rowley laughed as Lex walked away, due to the fact that she knew Lex was a nervous wreck from what he had planned on this night.

 “Mr. Luthor” someone said to Lex as he spoke with the Azure family that had just arrived.

 “Yes” Lex said turning to face the young man dressed in a serving outfit.

 “There is a phone call for you” the young man said pointing out the nearest telephone so that Lex could take the call.

 “Luthor” Lex barked into the phone once he had made his way to the phone.

 “Alexander” Lionel said his voice hinting at how unhappy he was with Lex at that point in time.

 “Dad” Lex said a smug smile on his face.

 “Don't you dare Alexander” Lionel stated in calm voice.

 “Is there a reason why you called” Lex said trying to sound innocent on the situation with Desiree.

 “Why did you not bring Miss. Atkins with you?”   Lionel asked in what Lex was beginning to think was a whine.

 “Well she had to get dressed and being that I had to be one of the first to arrive, I did after all give the cancer center the money for the renovations and upgrading that needed to occur to become NCI designated, I thought that it would behoove me to get here early.”  Lex said making his reasons sound logical.

 “Well that is not acceptable” Lionel said into the phone before there was a rustle and then,

 “Lex” Desiree said into the phone.

 “Miss. Atkins” Lex said trying not to laugh at the image of his father and Desiree fighting over the cell phone, so that they could take to him.

 “Give that here you stupid woman” Lex heard Lionel say to Desiree, by then there was nothing that would cover up that fact that Lex was laughing at his father.

 “Alexander, I want you to be outside when I arrive” Lionel said before the phone was jostled between the two and the phone was then disconnected.

 “Priceless” Lex said before making his way back over toward the Azures.

 “Everything alright?”  Michael asked Lex, due to the look on his face.

 “Better than alright” Lex said smiling at the thought of what Clark would say and do when he found out what had just happened.

 “Care to share” Michael said figuring it had something to do with Lionel Luthor.

 “If you insist” Lex said looking at the three Azures in front of him.

 “Please” Sasha Azure said with a gleam in her eyes that would make grown men fear for their lives.

 “It seems as if my father decided that me coming to the gala solo, was not an option he approved of so he decided to make arrangements with a Miss. Desiree Atkins, who made me lose the best friend that I have ever have” Lex said getting a dreaming look on his face when he thought out Clark.  The three in front of him saw it, and were happy that Lex had found happiness.

 “From there when I arrived to my penthouse this afternoon, she was waiting outside the door for I assume me.  I told her that she would have to speak with my father about the mix up, and proceed to get ready with her out in the hallway.  I would have thought that she left, but when I made my way back out she was standing there looking confused.  She said that she had spoken to my father and she said that her outfit for the gala was inside.  I of course knew this due to the fact that the garment bag sat on my bed.  I told her it was and it was not sitting on the couch.  I let her in and well I locked her in the penthouse and made my way over here.  I did let the doorman know that they needed to call my father to let him know that he would have to pick her up.”  Lex said before grabbing a glass of champagne and taking a sip.

 “I assume your father was not happy” Michael said watching Lex's face.

 “Oh well that was him on the phone just now.  It seemed as if he was whining about me not picking and/or taking the woman here.  He was actually fighting with the woman over who would speak to me.”  Lex said glee shining in his eyes.

 “You have to be kidding me” Michael said speaking for both his mother and father, due to their mouths hanging open at the thought of Lionel Luthor fighting over a cell phone with a woman.

 “No” Lex said smirking to the Azures, before getting called over to the stage by Dr. Rowley.

 “It's time for your speech” Dr. Rowley said watching Lex's face as he took a deep breath.  She knew he wasn't nervous over the speech, but over what would happen after he left the gala for the night with one, Clark Kent.  Lex was just about to go on stage when the double doors to the ballroom banged open.  All those present turned and watched as a ruffled Lionel Luthor stalked into the room followed by a stunningly dressed woman.

 “Alexander” Lionel voice boomed through out the silent room.  Lex just watched from his place near the stage as Lionel fought with Desiree.

 “Alexander” Lionel said louder than the first time.  Lex decided to “save” his father, so he responded.

 “Yes father” Lex said making his way slowly through the crowd as they parted when they saw Lex making his way toward his father.  Once Lex reached him, he could see his father was just about to explode, and Lex just couldn't wait to see what Lionel would do.

 “Here is your date that you oh so conveniently forgot to bring with you” Lionel said is a smug look on his face, what he didn't now was that Lex had the trump card over his father on this.

 “I didn't forget, I am certain that I told you that I was going alone” Lex said to his father, seeing that most of the people where listening in.

 “You knew” Lionel said getting angry that Lex was making a scene out of this.

 “No, you just refused to listen to me.” Lex said looking at Desiree as she was looking in the compact mirror making sure that she looked impeccable for Lex.

 “Alexander” Lionel said glaring at Lex.

 “Father, you knew that I was coming alone and yet you felt the need to make arrangements that need not be arranged and so now you have a date, due to the fact that I came alone and I plan to leave alone” Lex said before making his way toward the stage again.

 “Don't you dare turn you back on me, Alexander” Lionel said with his booming voice.

 “Father I have a speech to make” Lex said over his shoulder, he wanted to get out of his father radar as quickly as possible.

 “Lex” Desiree screeched while trying to make her way toward Lex, but not having any luck.  It was almost as if the crowd was working against her and Lionel if the look on his face was any indication.

 “Lionel” Desiree whined and Lex could only roll his eyes and smirk at what his father had gotten into with Desiree.

 “Shut your mouth” Lionel said sneering at the woman that was not in front of him.

 “Excuse me” Lex said into the microphone, getting every ones attention.

 “I would like to thank all of you for coming and supporting such an important endeavor.”  Lex said starting his speech so that he could leave and be with Clark.  The audience clapped as Lex paused.

 “I would also like to thank Dr. Julie Rowley for all the input that she has shared with me and others about the importance of Metropolis having a world class children cancer center.”  Lex said pointing out Dr. Rowley in a stunning sea green dress and with a red face.  She waved to the crowd while they clapped yet again.

 “When I was first approached by Dr. Rowley about a donation for the cancer center that she had hopes of building, I thought that she was out of her mind.  When she told me that she worked with children, I was automatically drawn to the idea.”  Lex said looking out into the audience and seeing that they were actually receptive to what he had to say, so he continued.

 “I decided then and there that I would do everything in my power to help her achieve her dream.  It was while in the middle of renovations of the cancer ward that I found out that my best friend was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, also commonly known as ALL.  Due to my best friend being 17, he was admitted to the hospital here and is still admitted today.  It was then that I worked even closer with Dr. Rowley to try and figure out a way to meet the needs of children who may be having a hard time adjusting to their stay.”  Lex said while noticing that some of the ladies in the audience had begun to tear up.

 “It was with help from not only my best friend but also the nurses and doctors that tend to the patients that we brought the ward up to standards that would surpass many cancer centers around the nation.”  Most the crowd looked impressed.

 “And so with out further ado, I welcome you all to the Lillian Luthor Children's Comprehensive Caner Center” Lex said just as the lights dialed down and a screen came down from the ceiling.  Soon there was a video playing the before and after shots of the ward and some showing the children while in the “play room”.  Once the short film finished, the lights were dialed back up and Lex stood at the podium ready to finish his speech so that he could go and be with Clark.

 “As you can tell the ward is now state of the art, and I want to keep it that way.”  Lex said eyeing each person the middle of the crowd.  Most the audience had to agree with Lex and seemed to be deciding on how much money they were going to give.

 “I know that my best friend can't thank those who helped him out through his treatment enough, but I also know that to be top notch we must continue to donate all we can.  I know this wasn't pegged as a fund raiser event, and it isn't, but I and the children in the ward would be grateful for the donation.  So eat, drink and be merry” Lex said with a small smile on his face as he finished his speech.  Once the audience realized he was finished they began to clap and whistle at Lex's speech.

 “Thank you” Lex said into the microphone before stepping down off the podium and then began shaking people's hands who wanted details on how to donate.  Lex soon pawned all of the well wishers and donation givers over to Dr. Rowley who knew the spec on how to give to the hospital.

 “Lex” Michael said stunned at the speech that Lex had just given.  He could see in Lex's eyes that it had hurt to speak about Clark and him having ALL, but Lex had made it something that would help those in the future.

 “Yes” Lex said standing by a side door that Dr. Rowley had pointed out to him so that he could escape to Clark's room.

 “That was amazing” Michael said eyeing Lex and the door that was behind him.

 “Thank you” Lex said trying to get away before Lionel found him.

 “Where are you going” Michael said curious as to where Lex would be going at this time of night and why Lex was leaving the gala that was pretty much planned by Lex's staff.

 “Clark” was all Lex had to say before he was pushed out the door and with Michael's parting words of:

 “Go now and tell him I said hi”   Lex just shook his head but then snuck his way onto the cancer floor and to Clark's room.  When he peaked in he saw that Clark was sitting on the bed looking toward the door, dressed in a tux.

 “Clark” Lex said coming into the room and was soon in a bear hug by Clark.

 “Lex, what is going on” Clark asked before kissing Lex and standing back and checking Lex out.

 “You my love are going to have a gala just for you” Lex said grabbing Clark's hand and leaving the room, moving toward a large conference room on the floor.  Once Lex opened the door, Clark's moth dropped open.  There were lit candles everywhere and there was a hint of classical music playing in the background.

 “Lex” Clark said pulling Lex toward him, to show bodily that he was amazed at what Lex had done.

 “You like” Lex asked nervous.

 “Of course, you didn't need to do this all for me though.”  Clark said moving around the room and then standing in the center of the room holding out his hand.

 “Care to dance with a clumsy farm boy” Clark said humor and love shining out of his eyes.

 “You know I do” Lex said taking Clark's hand and beginning to sway to the music that was playing softly, neither Clark nor Lex knew how much time had passed with them swaying to the music.

 “Clark” Lex said building up enough steam to ask Clark a really big question.

 “Yeah” Clark said looking at Lex and how tense he had become.

 “I have something to ask you” Lex said hoping that Clark would respond in a positive manner to his question.

 “Well ask” Clark said now worried that Lex was going to ask him that he was okay if he didn't want to see Clark any more.

 “I love you more then life itself” Lex said before he started to kneel.  Once Clark saw what Lex was doing tears sprung to his eyes, Lex wasn't going to ask to stop seeing it was quite the opposite.

 “I love you too” Clark said in a tear choked voice.

 “Will you Clark Jerome Kent, marry me?”  Lex said taking out a box and then opening it to show a black ring that had silver lettering around it.  Clark could only laugh due to the fact that he and Lex had gotten each other the same rings.

 “Clark” Lex asked worried now that Clark was laughing.

 “Be right back” Clark said before jogging back to his room to get the ring he had gotten Lex.  When he returned he was met with an anxious Lex.

 “Here” Clark said thrusting the now wrapped box into Lex's hands.

 “What's this” Lex asked not understanding why Clark wouldn't answer his question.

 “Open it” Clark said and then he watched as Lex ripped the wrapping paper off and then opened the box.  Once he had seen what was in the box he looked to Clark, for confirmation that what he was seeing was real; Clark nodded his head in approval.

 “So in answer to your question Lex, yes I will marry you because I was fully planning to ask you to marry me” Clark said blushing at the fact that he was going to be the first person to ask, but that went to pot due to Lex asking him first.  His parents had freaked at first when he told him what he wanted to do, they had tried to talk him out of it at first.  Saying that it was too early and to just wait until he was older, but Clark knew that it wouldn't matter if he asked now or later it would still be the same answer, he wanted Lex in his life for forever.  After Martha understood what Clark was feeling she had spoken at length with Jonathan to make him understand that it was going to happen anyway, this way they can be engaged for a longer period of time than if they made Clark wait to ask.

 “Yes” Lex asked stunned and amazed that Clark was going to ask him to marry him.

 “Yes Lex, now are you going to put my ring on my finger or am I going to have to do it my self?”  Clark said humor lacing his tone, because Lex seemed to be in stupor at the moment.

 “No, no” Lex said taking the ring out of the box and placing it on Clark's left ring finger.

 “Now me” Clark said taking his ring out of the box and placing it on Lex's left ring finger.

 “It really stands out” Clark mumbled to Lex as he looked down at Lex's pale skin and the black ring that sat on his finger.

 “So what's it say?”  Lex asked due to not knowing what was written there.

 “My duša, my love, and my life” Clark said beaming at Lex.

“My love you are amazing” Lex said before pulling Clark into his arms and kissing him. He had hoped that Clark would accept his proposal; he never thought that Clark would ask him to marry him as well.

“Shall we continue our gala?” Lex said before pushing a button on a remote that was sitting on a side table in the room. As the music began Lex lead Clark over to a circular table in another corner of the room. Dinner was served within minutes and soon Clark and Lex were back up and dancing around the room. Well they were really swaying but neither cared.

“ Clark ” Lex said looking at the tired eyes of his love, later on in the night.

“Yeah” Clark said looking at Lex with tired eyes.

“Lets get you to bed” Lex said guiding Clark to the door of the room and to make his way back to Clark 's room.

“Are you going to stay” Clark asked now somehow needing Lex there with him.

“If you wish” Lex said opening the door the room and beginning to take off Clark 's suit for him.

“Stay” Clark said before being pushed into the bed with only his boxers on.

“Then I will” Lex said sitting on the bed, kissing Clark for all he was worth. Clark had granted him this amazing thing and he planned to cherish it for the rest of his life. A few moments later they both broke for air, panting Lex spoke.

“My love” was all he said resting his forehead on Clark 's shoulder. He so wanted to take Clark now and ravish him but he knew better than to jump into something like that.

“My duša is there going to be enough room for you here?” Clark said patting at the bed. He missed the days where he and Lex could sleep in the same bed.

“I'll be right back” Lex said before strolling out of the room with a huge smile on his face. He was now an engaged man to the love of his life, he pulled up to the nurse's station only to find Marry behind it humming the wedding march.

“Right you are” Lex said startling her.

“Lex! So I take it things went well?” Mary said before a huge smile lit up her face due to Lex nodded his head in the affirmative.

“We need a bigger bed in there for Clark” Lex said with a serious look on his face, he had bought a bed special for Clark and he had not seen it in there.

“Oh right you are, we decided to give Clark the end room so that he could have a better view and get out of that box he is in. The contractors have been extra careful with that remodel” Mary said explaining as she walked Lex to the end of the hall and opened the door to the room. Inside there was a large hospital bed that could easily fit Clark and Lex and banks of windows showing the snow that had started falling while Lex was in the gala.

“His things are here” Lex said pointing out some of the things that had been up in Clark 's room, like the poster of ideograms that were used in Aztec writing.

“That they are, we were going to move him this morning but he got all flustered when you came by.” Mary said smiling at Lex due to the love shining on his face.

“Well he moves now” Lex said making his way to Clark's room and Mary going back to the nurse's station.

“Well” Clark said as Lex came in.

“Well let's get you dressed so that I can show you something” Lex said pulling out the pajamas that were the only thing in the room besides the suit that now sat on the chair in the room. A few minutes later Clark and Lex were walking down the hallway to the end room.

“What's going on?” Clark said as Lex opened the door and saw all of his belongings in the room.

“This is your new room; I know that one you were in was horrible so they decided to get you the best room on the floor.” Lex said pulling Clark to the windows and watching the snow.

“Lex you know I hate heights” Clark said standing next to Lex but a bit further than Lex wanted him to.

“I know my love but it is an amazing sight to see” Lex said pulling Clark over to the bed before he went into one of the drawers in the room to find a pair of pajama pants for him.

“Lex” Clark called out as Lex began to take off his suit coat, then tie and then shirt and pants.

“Beautiful my duša” Clark panted out due to Lex's amazing body.

“Nothing compared to you my love” Lex said before putting the bottoms on and making his way over to the bed with Clark in it. Soon both Clark and Lex were kissing again and Lex still couldn't believe his luck. This amazing man loved him and only him, and he would do everything in his power to keep it that way. Lex broke for air and saw the tired yet lust filled looking back at him.

“Tonight we sleep” Lex said pulling Clark next to him and then pulling the covers over them.

“Lex” Clark whined for all of two seconds before a yawn came from his mouth.

“Rest, I'm not going anywhere” Lex said kissing Clark one last time before they both fell asleep. The next morning Dr. Julie, Jonathan and Martha stood at the doorway to the room with smiles on their faces. They had known the plan and were glad to see that it looked like things had gone well.

“Morning” Lex said raising his head and looking at the group at the door.

“Lex” Martha whispered trying not to wake her son.

“He sleeps like the dead” Lex said before he was grabbed by a pair of arms.

“I do not!” Clark said with a smile on his face when he saw that his parents were there.

“Don't fight with the truth” Lex said with a laugh when he saw the agreement in Clark 's parent's faces.

“Don't gang up on the sick guy” Clark pouted and whined before Dr. Julie walked over and began to poke at him.

“Hey now” Clark said skirting away for Dr. Julie's always cold hands.

“Toasty here” Clark said again before getting even closer to Lex trying to avoid the hands that where seeking out his body.

“Clark, play nice” Lex said before he was swatted and then pulled with Clark as Dr. Julie checked Clark 's vitals for the morning.

“Things sound and look good” Dr. Julie said with a smile on her face. This had been the happiest that she had seen both Clark and Lex in a long time. Both were happy that they could show their love without anyone interfering in it that was only until Lex's phone began to sing the Death March to signify that Lionel Luthor was calling.

“Let the wrath begin” Lex whispered into Clark 's ear before grabbing the cell phone that sat on the bedside table cart.

“Luthor” Lex barked into the phone as he always did.

“Alexander” Lionel's voice came through the phone and to Lex's ears. Lex could only roll his eyes at the tone that Lionel's voice had. He knew that his father was close to throwing a fit, but lying next to his love made dealing with his father more bearable.

“Father” Lex said with a hint of a grin on his face once he saw the look that Clark gave him.

“Is there a reason why I didn't see you at the gala after your “little” speech?” Lionel said with an edge that had Lex wondering where his father was.

“I had another engagement I had to be at” Lex said looking at his ring that stood out on his finger, smiling at the way that it looked on his finger and how the pun was so perfect.

“Alexander, I expect better from you” Lionel said before he started to go off into why Lex was a bad Luthor and that he expected Lex to be back in Smallville to court Desiree Atkins correctly. Lex then decided that it was time to stand up to his father and damn the consequences since he absolutely refused to marry Desiree Atkins.

“Father, there will be no marriage between Ms. Atkins and myself.” Lex said grabbing Clark's hand hoping that Clark would give him strength.

“I think I heard you wrong Alexander, what did you say?” Lionel asked with a tone that told Lex that if he answered with what Lionel didn't want to hear there would be hell to pay later.

“I don't plan to marry or even courting Desiree Atkins for I have no urge to marry a whore” Lex said knowing that his father had slept with Desiree if the sounds in the background were anything to go by.

“Alexander” Lionel said in a tone that told Lex that if he didn't pull back soon he would wish he had later, but Lex knew that Clark was worth any pain his father would put him through.

“No father” Lex said hoping that Lionel wouldn't ask too many more questions.

“Where are you? You will be here at the penthouse within the hour.” Lionel said before hanging up on Lex. Lex breathed a sigh of relief when he was able to finally close his phone.

“Didn't go well” Clark said before grabbing Lex in a hug and holding onto him to give support and love to him.

“I am to be at the penthouse within the hour” Lex said shaking his head at what his father thought he would accomplish with Lex in front of him and not over the phone, the answer wouldn't change.

“Are you going?” Clark asked worried that Lex would get into some trouble when dealing with Lionel Luthor in person.

“Yes and I plan to tell him just what he can do with his plan for my life” Lex said with a smile on his face that made everyone in the room including Clark melt at how happy he looked for the first time and a great long while when dealing with his father.

“Okay” Clark said before kissing Lex and then watched as Lex got ready to go. The Kents and Dr. Rowley all stood outside to give Clark and Lex time to say goodbye, before Lex would leave to go do battle with Lionel.

“Keep him safe while I am gone” Lex said before he left as he saw them all nod. He had seen the worried look on Clark 's face and he wanted to make this visit with his father as short as possible because he would not leave his love worrying about him doing battle with his father for any amount of time.

“Alexander” greeted Lex as he made his way into the den where his father and Desiree Atkins sat waiting for him.

“Father” Lex said with a tip of his head before making his way over to a chair that stood in the far corner of the rug that sat on the floor, which just happened to be across from where his father and Desiree were sitting.

“Lex” Desiree said before getting up and trying to make Lex want her.

“Sit back down” Lex said before allowing her to make her way towards him. Desiree pouted before sitting back down next to Lionel while staring at Lex as if he was a good piece of meat.

“What do you want father? To talk me into marrying her, because that won't happen.” Lex said knowing that soon his father would go off on why he needed to listen to him and what sort of pain would be involved if he didn't.

“Alexander you will not take that tone with me and if I tell you to do something then you will or suffer the consequences” Lionel said smugly thinking that he had Lex backed into a corner that would make Lex cave. By this time Lex had, had enough of the game that his father was playing so he placed his left hand quite purposely up to his nose to pinch the bridge of his nose, so that both would see the black ring standing out on his pale hand.

“What?!” Desiree screamed seeing the ring and wanted to run over to Lex and pull it off. She was to marry Lex not someone else and definitely not with out her knowledge.

“Alexander” Lionel said a bit stunned to see that his son had one upped him with marrying someone in secret and him not finding out about it until now.

“Father I am quite happy with the way things are” Lex said smirking at the looks on both of their faces. He would have to tell Clark that a secret and quiet wedding would have to take place so that his father would not find out that it was only an engagement ring and not a wedding band.

“Go off to Vegas?” Desiree sneered thinking that not only was it tacky of Lex to go to Vegas to get married but also that the marriage could be annulled if Lionel Luthor believed her words.

“And if I did, it is no concern of yours” Lex said smirking even more at the gaping fish routine that Desiree was doing.

“How long” Lionel said trying to figure out if there was any way to get the person that Lex had married in his camp which would allow him to control of hi son's company. Lex on the other hand saw this as the perfect opportunity to tell his father not only that it wasn't his concern but also that he would be leaving LuthorCorp now that LexCorp had hit the papers a few short weeks ago stating that the first quarter earnings were one of the best earning reports that had been published for a new business in decades.

“Alexander I asked you how long” Lionel said getting frustrated with dealing with Lex so soon after dealing with Desiree Atkins the night before. The sex had been amazing but he didn't know if he could put up with too much more from either person.

“Long enough” Lex said before standing and making his way to the door so that he could make a quick exit once he told his father the news about him leaving.

“Alexander” Lionel said watching as his son walked towards the door. He had to wonder on who Lex had been secretly courting since the last he knew Desiree was the only woman that was in Lex's life in a purely sexual nature. He could think of a few women in the small town of Smallville that would be suitable but most were quickly throw back due to their lack of intelligence. Lionel was broken out of his thoughts by Lex speaking.

“Also father, I resign from LuthorCorp, LexCorp needs me full time and I plan to give it all my attention.” With those words spoken Lex walked out of the room and penthouse and made his way back to the hospital where he knew that Clark was still worrying about him at.

“Clark” Lex said walking into the room to see that Clark was sitting in a chair reading by the window.

“Lex” Clark said breathing a sign of relief once he saw that Lex was in one piece and looked to be happy since he had just dealt with his father.

“I'm fine Clark” Lex said amused that Clark was up and standing before he was even able to make his way over to where Clark was located.

“Are you sure” Clark said before pulling Lex into a hug while also kissing Lex quickly on the lips.

“Perfect” Lex said with a wide smile that only the Kents and Dr. Rowley had seen gracing Lex's face while Clark was in the room.

“Really” Clark said smiling as well because he could see the happiness in Lex's eyes.

“Yes” Lex said pulling Clark into a kiss that conveyed just how happy he was since it left Clark panting when they parted.

“Now” Lex said guiding Clark to the bed so that he could lie next to Clark .

“Lex” Clark said wondering on what Lex was doing for he could see that Lex's brain was going a mile a minute which usually left those that the plan was intended for in pain.

“Lionel thought that having me there with Desiree within reach would make me bend to his will. He was wrong for now my father and Desiree seem to think that I am married man.” Lex said smiling at Clark because he knew that Clark would put together what Lex wasn't saying.

“When do we do it then?” Clark said happy that he wouldn't have to worry about Lionel taking Lex away from him in a fit of rage and revenge.

“As soon as possible, we can still have the big ceremony but….” Lex said now worried that he was pushing Clark into something that he didn't want to do.

“Lex we could get married in a graveyard and I wouldn't care. This is for us and if mom gets mad about it then we will deal with that when we get there.” Clark said before kissing Lex making the other man wonder how he had lived without Clark in his life for so long.

“Alright then I will make the arrangements you work on getting Dr. Rowley to let you leave for a bit.” Lex said standing and pulling out his phone to set everything in motion. It was while Lex was on the phone that Dr. Rowley came in to check on Clark .

“You look happy” Dr. Rowley said smiling at how both young men had the happiest look on their faces.

“I am, I am” Clark said before trying to skirt away from the cold hands of Dr. Rowley again.

“So how are you feeling?”

“Great, can I ask you a huge favor” Clark said hoping that Dr. Rowley would allow him and Lex to get married and have a short honey moon.

“I won't agree yet” Dr. Rowley said looking between the two men and figuring that they were up to something.

“I was wondering if you could let me go with Lex for a few days. We want to get married in Vegas” Clark said fidgeting while hoping that Dr. Rowley would allow them to go.

“Hmmmm, let me think on it and give you answer later today. I have to look over your labs and see if your levels are in good standing before agreeing. Alright?”

“Okay” Clark said still hoping that they would be able to go since she hadn't refused out right. Once Dr. Rowley left the room and Lex was off the phone, Clark told Lex the situation. What Clark didn't know was that Lex wouldn't allow for anything to spoil the few days that they would be gone. He fully planned to make Clark his in every sense of the word. If that meant that he would have to over ride Dr. Rowley then he would for nothing would keep him away from Clark and their wedding. It was a few hours later that Dr. Rowley arrived back to the room to see Clark's head resting on Lex's chest while the other man massaged Clark 's shoulders. Dr. Rowley watched for a moment before nodding to Lex to let him know that Clark was free to go for a few days.

“Four days” Lex said before leaning over and kissing Clark 's bald scalp.

“Four days then” Dr. Rowley said before leaving the room and making sure that everything was in place for if they came back early. Lex watched Clark for a few moments more before waking up his soon to be husband to tell him the good news.

“She really is going to let us go?” Clark said happiness shining out through his eyes.

“Yes, now the hard part is telling your parents” Lex said before he made a face at what Jonathan Kent would do to him if something were to happen to Clark while they were away.

“I'll tell them, we need this” Clark said knowing that he would have a fight with his mother about the wedding due to her excitement over planning the large wedding.

“Alright, well I better go to work and I will see you tonight” Lex said standing and then kissing Clark before he left to go and clean out his office at LuthorCorp. Clark on the other hand only had a moment of peace before his mother came in with a smile on her face.

“Clark ” Martha said taking a seat in the chair next to the bed.

“Mom” Clark said before he sighed, for he knew that his mother would be heart broken to see them married not in the ceremony that she planned.

“Clark dear” Martha asked with a worried look on her face.

“Mom, Lex and I are going to get married in Vegas…” Clark said before he saw his mother's face fall.

“We still plan to have the other ceremony but we need this. Lionel is breathing down Lex's neck about it and I really want to do this mom. I don't want to think about it but what if I don't make it? I want to be with Lex for as long as I can…” Clark said with his voice breaking a bit at the thought of not being to spend the rest of his life getting old with Lex, or even spending part of his life being Lex's husband.

“Oh honey” Martha said understanding that Clark was truly concerned that he might not make it and would not be able to spend time with not only them but Lex as well.

“Please mom” Clark said with tears building in his eyes at the thought of not being with Lex for the rest of his life.

“Clark, its fine dear, go and have fun. We will work on the other ceremony and have it just as soon as you get out of here.” Martha said before standing and kissing Clark 's head before she left to go back to work. Clark only nodded his head before turning on his side and looked out the window that showed the Metropolis sky line. Martha watched sadly for she knew that the only person that could make Clark believe that he was going to live was Lex.

“Lex” a female voiced greeted Lex as he made his way into his office to begin the clean up for his move to LexCorp's Headquarters. Lex was ready to groan at the woman that stood in front of him with as little clothes as possible while looking proper for high society.

“Ms. Atkins” Lex said before making his way to his office where Desiree followed him into the room and locked the door.

“I don't understand” Desiree said with fake tears in her eyes.

“Just stop” Lex said holding up his hand while moving towards his desk where there was a stack of papers that needed to be looked over. Lex could only shake his head at the way his father thought, for he was certain that he didn't think Lex was serious about leaving and this was his way of making Lex feel insignificant, his father would be sorely mistaken.

“But Lex” Desiree whined before trying again to make her way to Lex, for she knew that if she got the right picture of Lex and herself, there would be an outcry for Lex to marry her, if she just so happened to let it slip that she might be pregnant even if she wasn't pregnant with Lex's child.

“Sit down” Lex said pointing to a chair on the other side of his desk. He would make this brief before he buzzed for security to come and get Desiree from his office. Desiree sat in the chair wondering on why her “charm” wasn't working as well as it had in Smallville for she had, had Lex at her beck and call until the day of the homecoming dance and the little misunderstanding they had. Lionel had promised her big things if she could marry Lex before Lex did something else that would make him lose anymore profits for LuthorCorp.

“Listen well because I don't plan to repeat myself on this. You are going to walk out that door and go back to Smallville and then leave.” Lex said not wanting to even deal with the woman any more than he had to.

“And what if I don't” Desiree said thinking that she would have Lex under her thumb if Lionel put enough pressure on him.

“There will not be don't; you will” Lex said before he buzzed security to come and get her. Desiree didn't have time to respond before security made their way into the office to escort her out.

“This is not the end” Desiree yelled as she was pushed out of the room and into the hallways for her to make her way out of the building.

“Mr. Luthor” broke Lex out of his thoughts to look up and see his admin standing at the door with a smile on her face.

“Abbey” Lex said in greeting and also letting his admin know that she was free to speak now.

“ Clark is on line….” Abbey didn't get to finish before Lex grabbed the phone and pressed the one line that was blinking indicating that the line was on hold. Abbey just nodded her head and made her way back out to her desk, where she finished packing up her belongings from her desk.

“ Clark ” Lex said with a small smile on his face due to phone call.

“Lex” Clark said that Lex knew that Clark had a smile on his face.

“Mom is okay with it”

“Are you sure?” Lex said with a frown on his face he didn't expect for Martha to give in so quickly.

“Yeah I am” Clark said with a nervous tone to his voice that Lex was tempted to ask about but kept silent about.

“Okay, well I am going to pack and then I will come just as soon they deliver my items to my new office.” Lex said proud of the fact that he had not only one upped his father but also that he had a new building to move in to; to prove just how successful LexCorp already was and planned to be.

“Okay” Clark said trying to not sound needy. He had after talking to his mom thought a lot about what Lex would do if Clark was sick for the rest of his life. He had heard some of the teens talking about how their boyfriend/girlfriend had dumped them when they found out that they were sick. He didn't want Lex to regret marrying him or even being with him but at the same time he didn't know if he would be able to fight for his life if Lex wasn't in his life. His parents were a large part of his life but he wanted someone to love him as much as he loved them and if Lex was to turn away from him, he didn't know what he would do.

“Clark, I'll be right there” Lex said now worried that something was wrong with Clark . Before Clark hung up the phone, Lex heard a sod coming from the other side of the phone, by this point Lex was out the door with a wave to Abbey to let her know where he was headed. Once Lex arrived to his car he peeled out of the parking garage and made his way over to the hospital where his love was crying with out him there to comfort him. It was a few minutes later that had Lex running down the hall to where Clark 's room was.

“Clark” Lex said as he opened the door to see Clark sitting by the window with his head in his hands.

“Lex” Clark said stunned that so much time had passed since he had spoken with Lex.

“Come here” Lex said as he opened his arms for Clark to walk into. It was at this time that Clark finally broke down and cried for all the fears that he had for his future.

“Clark” Lex said before kissing Clark's forehead as he made their way to the bed so that he could comfort Clark properly. Clark cried for 10 minutes before he was able to pull his head out of the crook of Lex's neck.

“ Clark , my love what is wrong?” Lex said stroking Clark 's tear stained cheeks. Clark only shook his head worried that Lex would think that what he was concerned about was dumb.

“Clark” Lex said again before pushing Clark's chin so that they could meet eye to eye for he knew that Clark couldn't keep anything from him then.

“Why me” Clark said looking serious about his question.

“Why you, because you Clark make me a better person and for that I love you, I love the way you do all you can do for others. I love you because I really think you complete me.” Lex said with a serious look on his face. Clark saw the truth in his eyes and knew that Lex would be there for him until their dieing days.

“ Clark ” Lex said wondering what had brought on this inquiry.

“Why would you want someone that has the possibility of being sick for a long time? There are better people out there for you” Clark said voicing his fears that he had brought up with his mother.

“I chose you because I love you and I don't want to change anything about you. If you are sick then we will deal with that together I will not allow you as the person I love most on this Earth to go through that with only your parents. Clark I do not want any one else but you, if that means that I am wrong then I will continue to be wrong for the rest of my life.” Lex said taking hold of Clark a bit tighter before kissing Clark at the end of his speech. Once they broke apart Clark just nodded his head before resting his forehead onto Lex's chest. Lex knew that Clark had something to say and that he had to work up to what he was going to say.

“Lex….I….I” Clark said in a voice that told Lex everything that his words couldn't convey.

“I know Clark, I know” Lex said pulling Clark in for another kiss to reassure Clark that things were fine.

“I'm sorry” Clark said a bit later while they lay on the bed snuggling each other, but Clark knew that Lex would never own up to the fact that he snuggled in bed. Clark had to laugh at the thought of Lex going on and on about how in Greek history snuggling was considered something very important.

“What are you laughing at” Lex said happy that Clark was feeling better about things now that he understood that Lex would be there for him until his dieing day whenever that might be.

“You snuggle” Clark said chuckling again waiting for Lex to start in on the history lesson that would justify his reasons for it.

“Well in ancient Greece …..” Lex started out only to have to stop due to the tears that were running down Clark 's face while he laughed.

“Clark” Lex said wondering what was going on with Clark .

“Oh it's just too funny….I knew you would say that” Clark said before grabbing Lex and kissing him.

“And what does that mean” Lex said with a smile on his face because of how happy Clark was.

“You seem to try and justify less than Luthor gestures by giving a Greek history lesson” Clark said before he kissed Lex so that Lex wouldn't have a come back too soon. When they broke apart Lex had to hand it to Clark , to kiss him after he had said his piece for he was going to go into a history lesson and the kiss stopped that in its tracks.

“Hmmm” Lex said before pulling away and getting up so that he could finish what he needed before leaving this evening for their trip. Clark could only smile as Lex got up and ready to leave.

“I'll be by to pick you up at 3, no need to pack I have that done for you” Lex said before bending over and giving Clark one last kiss before leaving. Clark sat on the bed amazed that he would do nothing to prepare for the trip. A few hours later had Lex arriving to Clark 's room with sunglasses and a smirk on his face.

“Lex” Clark said happy to see Lex once again.

“Ready” Lex asked before he helped Clark from the bed and then walked him to the elevators and then down to the waiting car for them.

 

 

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