Very nice beginning. It has all the wonderful trappings of gripping A-plot mixed with good B-plot. I can't wait for part 2.
I love alt beginnings as well and the changes you've made to Clark and Lois are subtle enough to fit into the LnC schema but big enough to make for an interesting and different kind of story.
Loved the part about Lois getting Clark to smile and seeing Lois in top investigative form is always a treat.
More soon, please.
BJ