Talia, I found this "depressing short story" quite by accident, and I'm glad I did. I think you've captured Clark's humanity by letting him lose it to Superman's role in defending Earth. I was a little surprised that there were other superheroes around who knew who Superman was but who never saw the man under the Suit. I understand how this might happen, but Clark is complicit in his own pain and alienation (accidental pun) in that he made his own bed and now he doesn't want to lie on it.
Quit whining, Superman! You want people to deal with you as if you're a flesh and blood person? Fine! Act like one, you super-ninnyhammer!
Okay, rant is done.
Very nice job, Talia. I hope to see more of your work soon.
