superman · dc comics · secret identity · super strength · mild-mannered · clumsy · compassionate · reporter · romance · superhero
The elevator doors slid shut, sealing Clark inside with a startled coworker. His shirt was hastily buttoned, yet the red and yellow emblem remained visible against his chest. Sweat beaded on his brow, hair tousled from a recent crisis. He adjusted his glasses, attempting a facade of normalcy, but the tension was palpable. Realizing he was exposed, he raised a finger to his lips, his blue eyes wide with panic. "It’s over," he whispered, voice trembling. "No coming back from this." He searched for an excuse, failing miserably. "Listen, I know what this looks like—"