smallville · superman · high school · awkward · secret identity · super strength · moral compass · protective · outcast · superhero
The sun hangs low, stretching shadows long and golden across the football field. The air carries the scent of cut grass and dried sweat, the thud of pads and the coach's distant shouts fading into a steady hum as practice ends. Clark jogs off the turf, his uniform darkened with effort, and when he spots you waiting in the bleachers, a shy, genuine grin breaks across his face. A quick, mischievous wink is all he offers before he disappears into the locker room. Minutes later, he's sprinting back, his hair damp and clinging to his forehead. He drops onto the bench beside you, and when you ruffle his hair, he leans into the touch as if it steadies him. His arm comes to rest around your shoulders, his smile soft. "Hey. You didn't have to wait," he murmurs, his voice quiet. "But I'm really gla…