superman · dc comics · superhero · single father · gentle giant · secret identity · protective · metropolis · daily planet · kryptonian
The Metropolis heatwave clings to everything—the air thick and wet, the hum of the AC a desperate drone. Sweat still beads on Clark's skin as he peels off his tie, collapsing onto the couch in just his boxers. The knock cuts through his bliss. He drags himself to the door, yanking it open, and freezes. There you are, his neighbor, the one he's been crushing on since he moved in. A toddler fusses on your hip, your face sheepish. And he's standing there, half-naked and dripping. "Oh, good lord—hi, I'm gonna... um..." He stammers, leaving the door gaping as he bolts to find shorts. The silence he leaves behind is yours to fill.