"Oh? And why do you think I would definitely help you?"
Leaning back in her chair, Lois smiled slyly.
"Didn't anyone tell you? I'm famous for being stubborn."
"I don't believe someone as upright as you could be the kind of person they describe," Clark replied at once.
"You've always insisted that the Daily Planet should report the truth," he continued.
"That the public deserves the right to know and receive fair, accurate information."
"Not to cater to those politicians and investors by hiding facts or fabricating nonsense."
"That's exactly what I believe in as well."
A hint of appreciation appeared in Lois's eyes.
She had been with the Daily Planet for six years now—working her way up from an intern to a section editor. She had paid a high price to get here.
Back then, she had turned down a high-paying offer from a major media conglomerate and chosen the Daily Planet straight out of college because of its motto:
"We report only the truth. We write only responsible journalism."
However, after Perry White became editor-in-chief, things gradually changed.
The paper began serving newly joined shareholders, publishing news that was half true and half false. Lois often clashed with her former mentor over this, storming out of his office more than once.
Those frequent scenes eventually earned her the nickname "the stubborn blonde bull."
By now, no one was willing to work with her anymore.
For someone with independent interview rights, that was a deeply frustrating reality.
Clark clasped his hands together pleadingly.
"Please, Lois. I really can't figure out what the editor-in-chief wants. I was hoping to get off work early tonight and get some rest."
Lois turned her chair around and looked at him with interest.
"So how exactly do you want me to help you?"
Clark flashed a warm, sunny smile.
"If it's convenient, we could grab a drink at a bar after work and talk it over."
"Don't worry," he added seriously.
"I guarantee you'll wake up safely in your own home tomorrow."
Lois chuckled.
"If you're asking me out with some ulterior motive, you might as well give up. I'm not the kind of person you're imagining."
"No," Clark grinned, showing a row of white teeth.
"I'm quite sure—you are."
"…Fine," Lois said at last.
"Since you're asking so sincerely."
She had originally planned to do some investigative follow-up that evening, but somehow—caught up in Clark's smile—she agreed without even realizing it.
"Then it's settled," Clark nodded.
"Alright. I'll choose the place—Dante's," Lois said with a smile.
Clark's lips twitched slightly.
That was one of Metropolis's most upscale bars. For two people to leave without spending at least a thousand dollars was basically impossible.
Still—for the woman he admired, even living on instant noodles next month would be worth it!
Having made up his mind, Clark smiled warmly.
"Alright. See you tonight."
Watching Clark put on a brave face, Lois turned back to her work.
A faint smile curved at the corner of her lips.
---
"Uh… Kara, could you help me out a bit?"
After work, Clark checked his bank balance. His lips twitched again before he pulled out his phone and called his cousin.
"What's wrong, Clark?" Kara asked from the other end.
"Trouble finding a place to live?"
She knew Clark had just arrived in Metropolis and still needed money for rent and daily necessities.
"No, I've already taken care of housing and essentials," Clark said honestly.
"I just have something else important I need the money for."
Kara paused for barely a second, then seemed to understand immediately.
"Got it. I'll transfer the money to your account in half an hour."
"Will thirty thousand be enough?"
"One thousand is fine. Thank you, Kara," Clark said gratefully.
"There's no need to be so formal between us," Kara laughed teasingly.
"Just remember to tell me if there's good news."
"Sure—wait, what?" Clark replied instinctively, then froze.
"Don't bother hiding it," Kara laughed.
"Your emotions are written all over your face."
"Even without seeing you, I can imagine exactly what expression you're wearing right now."
Clark sighed helplessly.
"By the way, how's Lucas? I haven't heard from him in over a week."
"That guy disappeared to who-knows-where," Kara said helplessly.
"He's been completely out of signal range."
"With Lucas's strength, nothing serious should happen," Clark tried to reassure her.
"I'm not worried about that," Kara sighed softly.
"It just feels strange when he's not around."
"…So when are you two getting married?" Clark suddenly asked.
"Are you asking for a beating?" Kara snapped.
---
One and a half months later.
"I'm heading to work now, sweetheart."
Clark kissed Lois Lane lightly on the lips, picked up his briefcase, and walked out the door.
Watching his tall figure leave, Lois's face filled with happiness.
Since meeting this sunny young man, all of his admirable qualities had deeply attracted her.
Clark was the kind of man who became more comforting the longer you spent with him.
Before she realized it, Lois had fallen deeply in love.
Ugh…
Suddenly, a wave of nausea washed over her.
She frowned in confusion, disbelief flickering across her face. Quickly changing clothes, she headed downstairs to a nearby supermarket to buy something.
---
Recently, Clark felt that his life had become incredibly blissful.
Both his career and his relationship were finally on track.
The only thing that worried him was Lucas, who had been missing for over a month—
And, because of that, Kara's growing unease.
"Looks like after work, I should take Lois to Lucas's place and check on things," Clark decided.
---
"Elaine, when is big brother coming back?!"
After school, Carrie tugged excitedly at Elaine's arm.
"How would I know?" Elaine covered his face in exasperation.
"You definitely know!" Carrie insisted.
Just then, Kara walked out of the kitchen.
"Alright, Carrie, don't make things difficult for Elaine."
Carrie snorted.
"I saw it last night! Big brother's voice came from Elaine's room!"
Kara immediately looked at Elaine, curiosity and hope filling her eyes.
After all, it had been nearly two months without any news from Lucas.
"You were spying on me?" Elaine protested unhappily.
"Hmph! That's because you secretly talked to big brother without telling me!" Carrie turned her head away, completely unapologetic.
___
🎉 Big Shoutout to Quinton Matthews!🎉
A heartfelt thank you to Quinton Matthewsfor joining my Patreon and supporting this journey! 🙏✨
Your generosity truly makes a difference and helps bring chapters out faster for everyone. 🚀
Welcome to the VIP family, Quinton Matthews—you're awesome! 💎🙌