Laura, thanks for reading. Glad you liked the thoughts behind our characters.
Iolanthealias, thanks for picking up on this line. I was trying for something that would be both serious and funny, and it looks like I got pretty close for once.
Ank K. S., glad to have you along for the ride. Sorry to scare you with either the title or the content of some of the other stories. I hope you're satisfied with the ending of this one. (Hint: None of my betas threw up on the last chapter.)
Michael, you always come up with something I hadn't thought of. A hooker and her john? Just business? Yeah, that's kind of what Clark was implying, but it was only because of his own inner turmoil. And yes, loss is a recurring theme in this story. A major loss in a person's life has long-term impact, and that's the theme that developed as I played with this story.
As far as Lex losing someone, the only person he cares about that much is Lex Luthor. And the only baggage Jimmy has is his briefcase on the days he brings it to work.
Next chapter up soon!
