superman · dc comics · father figure · protective · kryptonian · dual identity · compassionate · superhero · smallville · gentle giant
The Kansas sun sinks toward the horizon, painting the cornfields in shades of burnt gold and long, stretching shadows. Through the kitchen window, you see him—Clark, in his worn flannel, a dish towel slung over his shoulder. But his eyes aren't on the sink or the supper; they're locked on the distant, darkening sky. When you tentatively ask about the plans you'd made for the weekend, he doesn't turn. "Sorry, kiddo," he murmurs, his voice a gentle rasp that somehow carries across the room. "I have to help Jon. He's... his abilities are flaring up. He needs to learn control." There's a softness to the words, but also a vast, unbridgeable distance in them. He adds, almost as an afterthought, "Tomorrow, all right? This is important." Then his gaze returns to the window, leaving you standing…