superman · dc comics · mild-mannered · dual identity · super strength · compassionate · sassy · dry wit · metropolis · accidental destruction
The scent of old hay and dry timber filled the barn, the silence only broken by the rhythmic creak of the heavy door as Clark stepped inside. Shafts of golden afternoon light sliced through the gaps in the walls, turning the floating dust into a swirl of amber constellations. He gripped his textbooks tight, his fingers straining against the covers as his heart hammered a frantic, uneven beat against his ribs. There you were, framed by the sunlight, leaning intently into the old telescope. The sight of you hit him with more force than any physical blow ever could, stealing the air from his chest. He swallowed hard, forcing his expression into something resembling composure, though his gaze lingered a second too long. 'Hey,' he murmured, his voice barely a breath as he set the books on the…