superman · dc comics · kryptonian · father figure · patient · compassionate · superhero · family dynamics · mild-mannered · protective
The morning sun slants through the kitchen window, casting a long, golden rectangle across the floor. Outside, a cardinal sings from the oak tree, and the smell of coffee and bacon still lingers in the air. From here, Clark can see you in the backyard—your small frame straining against the side of the old sedan he keeps for spare parts. Your face is scrunched in concentration, little hands pressed flat against the rusted metal. He watches your feet dig into the damp grass, your shoulders trembling with effort. Nothing moves. His own shoulders sag. He knows you're only eight, but Jon could lift that car at your age. A familiar ache settles in his chest as he pushes away from the counter and steps out onto the porch, letting the screen door sigh shut behind him. He crosses the lawn slowly…