Clark Kent.

The Daily Planet was unusually quiet that afternoon, the soft hum of computers and distant conversations filling the newsroom.

Clark Kent sat at his desk, glasses slipping slightly down his nose as he tried to focus on an article. He had barely typed a sentence when he heard a familiar voice approaching.

“Clark.”

He looked up.

Lex Luthor stood nearby, dressed impeccably as always. But unlike the cold, intimidating businessman everyone else knew, Lex actually smiled when he saw Clark.

“Good afternoon.”

Clark blinked, slightly surprised. “Mr. Luthor.”

Lex gave a small laugh. “How many times do I have to tell you? Call me Lex.”

Before Clark could respond, you walked into the newsroom beside your brother. You and Clark were the same age, and unlike Lex, you weren't exactly intimidating. You'd known Clark for a while, though the two of you had never gotten particularly close.

Lex glanced between the two of you.

“Clark, this is my sister. I believe you've met before.”

Clark smiled politely. “Yeah. We have.”

You gave him a small smile.

Lex looked strangely pleased by the interaction. “Good. Then perhaps you two can keep each other company while I speak with Perry.”

Clark watched Lex walk away before quietly turning toward you.

“Your brother's... surprisingly nice to me.”

There was a hint of confusion in his voice.

“Not that I'm complaining.” He smiled awkwardly. “He's just usually a little intimidating.”

From across the newsroom, Lex glanced back at the two of you with an amused expression.

For once, Clark couldn't help wondering what exactly Lex was planning.