#MelonixDon

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 13/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano, Jewish Superfam

Chapter Thirteen: Sweet Dreams

Clark woke the boys up early, smiling at how peacefully they slept in Thad’s bed. “Hey, fellas. We’ve got a big day planned,” Clark whispered. Thad sat up and wiped his eyes with his palms. He glanced down at Conner and smiled. Conner rolled out of bed and hugged Clark before heading to the bathroom. Thad was relieved that Conner didn’t explain why he wasn’t in his bed. “Are you okay?” 

“I’m alright now… I couldn’t sleep,” Thad confessed. Clark crouched beside the bed. 

“Bart, I know it can be tough being this far from home. I’m not even from this country. Did you know that?” Clark asked. Thad shook his head. “I was born far away, but I was raised here by my Ma and Pa, and they taught me one very important thing. A house is a place but home is just a bit of you scattered in meaningful places. I hope you can make this place one of your homes this summer, Bart.”

Thad didn’t completely understand, but it stuck with him. “Mr. Kent?” Thad whispered. “Thank you for letting me stay here.” 

“Thank you for coming. Conner’s so happy to have you here,” Clark smiled, “Now, you should go and get ready.” Thad nodded.

**

Thad and Conner sat on top of the spider climber in the park, and Thad lost his balance and grabbed Conner’s arm. Conner held his hand, interlacing their fingers. “I’ve got you,” Conner whispered. 

Thad puffed out his chest, holding his breath as he tried to figure out something tough to say, but he couldn’t find anything. So, he said something genuine instead. “I don’t know what I’m gonna be when I grow up… I don’t know why it scares me so much,” Thad confessed, “I wanted to live… But I don’t want to grow up. I’m scared of what will happen when I do.”

Conner frowned. “I think we’ll be friends when we’re grown up,” Conner whispered. And it took the weight off of Thad. 

“How are we gonna get down?” Thad asked. 

Conner giggled and let go of Thad’s hand. “Okay. I’m gonna go first, and you follow me,” Conner replied. He turned around and started climbing down. Thad waited until Conner was on the ground before he started climbing down after him. His foot slipped, and he yelped as he fell backward. Conner caught him and fell on his back. Clark and Lois rushed over, and Conner started laughing. 

Thad rolled onto his hands and knees and started apologizing profusely. “Conner, I’m so sorry. Are you hurt?” Thad asked. He helped Conner up and dusted the wood chips off. 

“I’m okay. You’re not that heavy,” Conner reassured him. 

Thad saw Conner’s scraped elbow and held back tears as he reached into his bag for his first aid kit. Tears streamed down his cheeks as he turned Conner’s arm over to get a better look. He sprayed Conner’s elbow with antiseptic and wrapped his arm. “Does it hurt?” Thad asked. Conner shook his head before hugging Thad. 

“I’m okay, Bart. I’m okay,” Conner whispered. 

**

Thad took a picture of Conner cutting apples at the table. “Feel better?” Conner asked. Thad nodded. “You sure?” 

“I’m okay. Hey, I was thinking about what you said earlier. Do you really think you’d want to be friends with me when we grew up?” Thad asked. Conner drizzled lemon juice over the apples he cut and started on another apple. 

“Sure. I wanna be friends with you forever. I think we’ll be friends forever,” Conner replied without looking up, “You’re my best friend in the whole world.” 

Thad smiled, growing quiet as he snapped a picture of Clark while he used a cookie cutter to cut the dough into perfect circles. “You’re my best friend, too,” Thad whispered as he reached for the mood ring around his neck. 

Thad set his camera to the side and washed his hands before helping design the boxes. “What’s the bake sale for?” Thad asked. 

“Oh, it’s not a bake sale. We’ve got a booth at the fair,” Conner answered. He was so heavily focused on his task that he never looked up from his apples except to look at the boxes. “Where’d you learn to draw like that?” 

“My dad’s an artist. I help him paint sometimes,” Thad replied. 

“Do you think you’d want to do art when you grow up?” Conner asked. 

“It’s not a fiscally responsible plan of action,” Thad recited, quoting his other grandfather of the same name. 

Conner knit his brows together, grinning as he looked at Thad. “Bart, I don’t know what that means, but I think you should do what you like,” Conner replied. Thad shrugged. “Too many people live lives they don’t want thinking they’ll get to be happy later. Why not be happy the whole time?” 

“He’s got a point, Bart. Journalism is a hard business to get into, but Clark and I struggled to be the best investigative journalists we could be. If we didn’t take chances on dreams that seemed impossible, nothing in the world would have…”

“Color,” Clark finished Lois’ sentence without looking up from his dough. 

“Besides, you’re good at it already,” Conner added. 

**

At the end of the day, Thad grew quiet while they cleaned up to get ready for bed. “Bart, can I tell you a secret? I’m so nervous about going to middle school. You’re not in middle school yet, huh? You’re only going to sixth grade. Aren’t you?” Conner asked. 

“Oh… Um, my homeschool is K-through-twelve. So, I don’t have middle school or anything like that,” Thad answered. 

Conner took off his glasses and squinted at Thad. “Do you ever get lonely?” Conner questioned. 

“Not really… If I’m not with you, I like being by myself. It’s not so bad,” Thad whispered as he climbed into bed. He held his breath for a moment, wondering if he’d have to tell Conner he was still frightened to sleep on his own. That was the last thing he wanted to do. 

Conner dropped his socks in the hamper and yawned. “When I was eight and you were seven, you got really sick… I asked if you remembered meeting me at the fair. You said no… Do you still not remember?” Conner asked. 

That was the one white lie Thad told Bart. He didn’t want Bart to know he was pretending to be him that night at the fair, so he convinced Bart he was there and didn’t remember. “Uh-huh. You bought me a corndog and gave me this,” Thad whispered as he showed Conner the original mood ring from that night. Conner climbed into Thad’s bed. Thad sank into the pillows, finally able to relax. He squeezed the blanket in his fists. 

“Do you mind if I sleep here?” Conner asked. Thad shook his head. “Do you eat scrambled eggs?” 

“Uh-huh. I love scrambled eggs,” Thad whispered. 

Conner closed his eyes and rolled close to Thad. “I’m gonna make you some eggs tomorrow… Do you miss your family saying they love you before bed?” Conner questioned. 

“A little bit,” Thad whispered. 

“I’ll say it until you go home, then… I love you, Bart,” Conner whispered. 

Thad clutched his chest, wondering why he felt sad. “I love you too, Conner,” Thad whispered. He turned to look at Conner, but he looked like he was already fast asleep. “We love you too, Conner.”

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 12/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano, Jewish Superfam

Chapter Twelve: CRAYDL

Conner looked around the airport until he saw Clark. “Dad!” Conner shouted. Clark ran to him, flashing the employee his ID. Clark embraced Conner and smoothed his hair back. 

“Were you scared?” Clark asked as he looked Conner over. 

“I cried a little bit when the plane went up in the air… But, it wasn’t so bad,” Conner answered sweetly, shrugging off the last remaining bits of anxiety. Clark crouched near Conner and held him tight before kissing Conner’s forehead. 

“Are you sure you’re okay? You must be tuckered out,” Clark whispered. Conner nodded. 

He held Clark’s hand and breathed through his nose. “Dad, where’s Mom?” Conner questioned. 

“Picking up your surprise,” Clark answered, “Hungry?” 

“Uh-huh… Wait… What surprise?” Conner questioned. Clark pointed to Lois holding a familiar little boy’s hand. 

Conner looked up at Clark as if asking for permission. “His parents wouldn’t have sent him if it wasn’t okay. Go say hi to your friend,” Clark grinned. Conner released Clark’s hand, running to his friend at full force before picking him up. 

“Bart, what are you doing here?” Conner questioned. 

Thad swallowed hard as he wrapped his arms around Conner, squeezing him in an unusually intense embrace. “My mom and dad said I could stay with you for a few weeks,” Thad whispered, still unable to let go. Conner smiled, waiting until Thad was ready to let go. “I’ve never had a sleepover before. I’m so excited.”

Conner held Thad’s hand. “Now, we don’t have to stop talking early to log off. We could play until we fall asleep,” Conner beamed. Thad and Conner followed Lois and Clark to the car. 

Thad looked out the window at everything. The buildings. The statues. The murals. It was so much on his senses, but he loved every moment of it. “Do you kids wanna get loaded fries and milkshakes?” Lois asked. 

“At Do-Si’s?” Conner asked. 

“You know it, sweetheart,” Lois answered. Thad chewed his lip as he turned to Conner, and he pulled something out of his bag. 

“Can I take a picture?” Thad asked. 

“Sure. And can I take one of you after?” Conner questioned in reply. Both boys giggled and made faces at the little camera. 

** 

At Clark and Lois’ apartment, Conner and Thad lay on the floor together watching TV and drawing pictures. Thad yawned. “Are you sleepy?” Conner asked. Thad shook his head. “Bart, can I ask you something?” 

“Sure,” Thad replied. 

“How’d you get better?” Conner questioned. 

Thad sat up, politely crisscrossing his legs as he remembered the grueling process. “Someone donated their stem cells to me,” Thad replied. Conner cocked his head before sitting up to listen better. 

“What’s that?” Conner asked. “Does it hurt?”

“Not really… Um, the person who gave me the stem cells had to get a shot every day for five days… And then, after they get their fifth shot, they go and get a needle put in them that takes their blood out and puts it back in, and it does that for a long time. Sometimes that’s uncomfortable. They can’t get up to go to the bathroom or anything the whole time… So, sometimes a nurse has to give them calcium through their blood in a bag, and it makes them feel better,” Thad explained, “But I had to stay in the hospital a little while longer to make sure it worked… And the other person had to stay away from a lot of people too, so they wouldn’t get sick.” 

“How come?” Conner asked. 

“‘Cause it weakens your immune system. If you don’t have healthy stem cells and someone gets you sick, you could be sick for a long time. And if you give stem cells to somebody else, your body has to take time to get strong again. But we’re both okay now,” Thad reassured Conner after seeing the distress in his eyes. 

Conner took a shaky breath before kneeling forward to hug Thad. “I’m glad you’re better. I never forget to pray for you. So, I’m glad it worked. I don’t know what I would do without my best friend,” Conner whispered as he held a startled Thad in his warm embrace. Thad slowly reciprocated, overwhelmed by the amount of affection but not averse to it. 

Thad wondered what it would’ve been like had he told the truth the first time. He wondered if Conner would’ve liked him the same. His lips twitched into a smile, but he wanted to cry. Conner released him and brushed his temple with his palm as if he’d forgotten something important. “Oh! Bart, I go to temple with my dad once a week, but you don’t have to go if you don’t want to. Mom said she’d take you somewhere fun if you didn’t want to go,” Conner explained. 

Thad listened to Conner describe temple shortly after that, and he smiled at Conner’s expression. “Can I come and see?” Thad questioned. 

“Sure! I’ll tell my dad,” Conner smiled. Clark entered the room. 

“Tell your dad what?” Clark teased as he sat down on the floor. 

Conner kneeled and placed his hands on Clark’s shoulder before resting his chin there. “Can Bart come to temple?” Conner asked. Clark nodded. “Is it time to go to bed?” 

“‘Fraid so… We’ve got a big day planned tomorrow. And we’re getting donuts first,” Clark whispered, “Brush your teeth, and I’ll be there to turn out the lights and say goodnight in a minute.” 

**

Thad woke up in the middle of the night from a nightmare, and he reached into his bag, looking for his stuffed animal. “No… No, no, no—.” Thad started to panic once he realized Bart had his stuffie at summer camp when they decided to switch places. 

Conner stirred, turning on his side as he watched Thad struggle for air, and he sat up once he was lucid enough to realize something was wrong. “Bart? Is something wrong?” Conner asked. Thad hugged his knees, hiding his face as he trembled and gasped for air. Conner climbed out of his bed and rubbed Thad’s back. “Do you feel sick? Is it your stomach?” 

Thad shook his head. “It’s embarrassing,” Thad mumbled once he caught his breath. 

“You can tell me. I won’t make fun of you. I promise,” Conner whispered. He stopped and squinted in the dark. “Did you wet the bed?” 

“No,” Thad whimpered as he started to cry. 

Conner climbed into the bed beside him, and he pulled him into a half-hug. “What’s wrong? I won’t laugh at you. I promise,” Conner reassured. Thad looked up at Conner as tears streamed down his cheeks. 

“I didn’t bring CRAYDL with me,” Thad confessed. 

“What’s a CRAYDL? Maybe my dad could find you another—.” 

Thad shook his head. “CRAYDL is my stuffie,” Thad mumbled. Conner softened and nodded. 

“I know it’s not the same, but I can sleep in your bed tonight,” Conner offered, “I’m sorry you’re scared.” Thad tried to calm down, so he wouldn’t hurt Conner’s feelings, and Conner climbed under the blankets. 

“You won’t be mad to stay here all night?” Thad asked. Conner shook his head. 

“It’s okay. Try to close your eyes. I’m not going anywhere, Bart. I promise,” Conner reassured him. He shut his eyes, and patted Thad’s knee until he scrunched down in bed and closed his eyes. Conner lay on his stomach, and Thad lay on his back, letting Conner reach over his chest with a gentle but heavy arm.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 1/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers

Chapter One: Les Fleur

"You can hold my hand if you're scared," Conner whispered as he stretched his hand out to the crying boy. The small boy reached out and took Conner's hand, his eyes shut tight as he followed Conner out of the hall of mirrors. "I used to get scared in the hall of mirrors, too," Conner whispered, "I'll tell you when we're outside."

He nodded, squeezing Conner's hand tight. Conner couldn't let go even if he wanted to. And he didn't want to. The small boy wouldn't budge, so Conner took off his necklace and gave it to the boy to wear. "I'm not gonna let go. You can wear my ring around your neck until we get out. The cold air hit their faces as they stepped outside, and Conner kept walking until he got to a food stand. "Oh! You can open your eyes now... Are you hungry?" Conner asked. The boy nodded, still holding Conner's hand tight. "Two corndogs, please." Conner paid for their food, and the boys ate while Conner walked them to the help tent.

"Thank you," the little boy mumbled.

"No problem," Conner smiled, "I'm seven years old... How old are you?"

"Six." The little boy took a bite of his corndog and swung his feet as they sat on the bench. He'd finally managed to stop crying, and Conner waved the lady at the tent over.

"Hi, Conner! I saw your pa's watermelon. I hear he's gonna take a picture with the mayor tonight," she smiled.

"Uh-huh! And Ma's gonna win the blue ribbon for her apple pie tonight!" Conner exclaimed. "Wait... Mrs. Feeny, this kid's lost. He's six years old, and I found him in the hall of mirrors-." The little boy tugged his sleeve.

"Where are the bumper cars?" he whispered. "My daddy said to meet him there if I got lost... But I can't remember where that is."

"Oh, I can take you there... Sorry, Mrs. Feeny, I've got him," Conner smiled.

"What's your name?" the little boy questioned.

"I'm Conner. What's your name?" Conner asked. He looked at the little boy's face, but the little boy never looked back. Not directly, anyway.

He finished his corndog and stared down at his feet. "Bart," he answered.

"Nice to meet you, Bart," Conner replied. Bart glanced at him.

Conner led Bart through the crowd, and Bart kissed Conner on the cheek. "Thank you," Bart smiled before darting off. He leaped into his father's arms, and Conner backed away. His job was done. Besides, he was late meeting Ma. He ran toward the Blue Ribbon Baking Contest, and Ma waved at him.

He ran into her arms, and she sat down and bounced Conner on her knee. "You're late, sweetheart," Ma whispered as she kissed his cheek. "Not too bad, though."

"Sorry, Ma. Somebody got lost in the hall of mirrors," Conner explained. Ma took a bite of his corndog and grinned.

Conner sat on her lap for the rest of the contest, and he fell asleep. Ma held him close to her chest. That night, she won the blue ribbon for her excellent apple pie.

*

Conner's alarm went off, and he jumped out of bed. He searched the room for his coveralls. "Ma! Ma! Have you seen my coveralls?" Conner shouted. Someone knocked on his bedroom door, and he answered, startled by the presence of Clark Kent standing in the hallway. Conner rarely saw him in person, save for the occasional holiday. But he always watched Clark on the news. Clark was always much bigger in person. Frighteningly so. "Good morning, Clark." Conner looked up, swallowing hard as he extended a hand to Clark.

Clark crouched down and embraced him. It was unexpected, sweet, and jarring, but Conner hugged back. Clark didn't explain his presence. Instead, he plainly stated that Conner would be with him for the day. Conner never asked why. Instead, he nodded and searched his closet for something to wear. He dressed in jeans and a snap-button shirt before brushing his teeth and washing his face in the restroom.

The sun hadn't risen yet, but it was working hours for the summer, and Conner was well accustomed to the schedule. Clark took his hand and walked him to the car. "Where's Ma and Pa?" Conner asked. It dawned on him that he hadn't seen or heard from them.

"They had to go into town... But I was visiting anyway," Clark answered. Conner squeezed his hand. "How've you been?"

"I have a loose tooth," Conner whispered. Clark looked down, and Conner wiggled his tooth for him.

"That's a nice one. Maybe I'll help you pull it later," Clark replied. Conner nodded. Things had always been odd between the two. Conner knew that Clark was his father, but Ma and Pa only told him that recently. There was still a lot he didn't understand. Clark loved him, he knew that much, but they failed to connect to one another on a fundamental level. They were practically strangers.

"Clark, could we get breakfast?" Conner asked. Clark nodded.

"Did you have fun at the fair last night?" Clark asked. Conner nodded.

"I helped a boy find his dad... He got lost last night. I bought him a corndog and gave him my ring," Conner whispered.

Clark nodded. "We'll have to get you another one then. How about us two go to the antique shop together?" Clark offered. Conner grinned. "Excited for second grade?"

"No... I liked first grade. Pa says it can't be helped," Conner answered. Clark chuckled.

Conner pulled his boots on and slipped on a bolo tie. "Are Ma and Pa at the fair?" Conner questioned. Clark shook his head.

"Ma and Pa are looking for a missing neighbor," Clark answered. Clark put him in a car seat and swallowed hard. "Conner, I love you. Do you know that?"

"Are Ma and Pa okay?" Conner asked. Clark nodded.

"Ma and Pa are fine. They're worried about their friend, but they'll be home before dinner," Clark answered. Conner nodded, and Clark drove out to a twenty-four-hour diner. "Want some flapjacks?"

"Can I have cinnamon sugar on them?" Conner asked. Clark nodded. "Is Lois coming?"

"Mhm, you'll see her soon," Clark replied, "She's still asleep. We didn't get in until late."

Conner swung his feet. "Does Lois like me?" Conner asked. Clark chuckled.

"Lois loves you," Clark replied.

"She cries when she sees me," Conner mumbled as he wrung his hands.

"That's because she misses you," Clark explained. He reached across the table and squeezed Conner's knee. "Is this strange for you? Me being here?"

"Ma and Pa said I could go with you and Lois without asking-."

"No, Conner... I mean-. Do you feel comfortable around me?" Clark asked. Conner grew silent. "I promise one day this will all make sense, Conner. I hate that it doesn't right now. I love you more than you'll ever know."

"Did you not like me? Is that why you're not my daddy anymore?" Conner asked.

"That's not-. Conner, I was trapped out of the country. No one even knew if I was still alive. Lois thought I was dead, so she was too upset to be the mommy she wanted to be. When I returned, you thought Ma and Pa were your parents, so I decided we should let you grow up in the home you've always known," Clark explained.

Conner didn't say anything else about it. None of it made sense to him, but he didn't want to say something wrong and keep Clark from visiting again. "Can we go to the fair after breakfast? I promise I'll be good. I'll even hold your hand if you want," Conner promised.

The waitress smiled and put her hand on her hip. "How are my two favorite Kent boys?" she grinned.

"Hi, Miss Lisa. Clark said I could have cinnamon sugar on my flapjacks," Conner announced.

"We're doing alright. Can we have two orders of bacon and flapjacks? Orange juice for me and milk for Conner? And how are you, Miss Lisa?" Clark ordered.

"I'm doing good. Nice to see you, Clark," Miss Lisa smiled, "Oh, and thank you for those eggs, Conner. That was so sweet of you." She waved before walking off.

"What about eggs?" Clark asked.

"It was only a half dozen. I gave the eggs to Miss Lisa's grandson 'cause he's in my class," Conner answered. Clark smiled.

"You got taller since the last time I've seen you," Clark noted. Conner nodded. "You're gonna be bigger than me when you grow up. I can tell."

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 11/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano, Jewish Superfam

Chapter Eleven: Dungarees and Switcharoos

Conner came in from the rain and changed out of his dungarees in the doorway. “Ma? I had to borrow your sewing kit to mend Toffee’s blanket. How much time do I have?” Conner asked. Ma wrapped him in a towel.

“You have thirty minutes, sweetheart. I ran you a bath, and when you get out, I’ll make you a cup of tea with your dinner,” Ma whispered as she dried his hair. Conner kissed her cheek.

“If Dad calls, can you tell him I promised to check in with Bart today? He got out of the hospital yesterday,” Conner requested.

Ma nodded. “Go on, you don’t want to be late,” Ma whispered.

*

Meanwhile, in Missouri, Bart lay in Thad’s bed. It was his first weekend home after ten weeks in isolation in the hospital. “Please?” Bart begged.

“He’s gonna know,” Thad whispered.

“No, he won’t. I’ll give you five dollars to do it,” Bart replied. Thad huffed and puffed as he held back tears. “Don’t cry. All I need you to do is pretend to be me and play with Conner for thirty minutes.”

Thad fidgeted with the bottom of his pajama shirt as his heart pounded. “What if he finds out? Won’t he be angry?” Thad asked. Bart opened his arms and pulled Thad into a hug. “I don’t know how to talk to anybody but you.”

Bart frowned. Thad isolated himself for years, hoping they could go home together someday. He didn’t make friends or go out while Bart was sick. Outside of their family, Thad was alone. “If he finds out, you can tell him the truth. He won’t be angry. I promise,” Bart reassured him, “And everyone likes you. They just don’t know you yet.”

Thad let go and nodded. “I’ll do it. And I don’t want five dollars,” Thad replied. Bart pulled Thad close, messed up his hair, and fixed the buttons on Thad’s pajama shirt. They stared at each other, and Thad smiled. “We haven’t been this close in years…”

“I hope we’ll always be this close,” Thad whispered. Bart grinned and nodded.

“Always,” Bart smiled, “We’ve got the rest of our lives.”

Thad nodded enthusiastically, squeezing his fists to contain his excitement at Bart’s newfound hope for the future. He worried that Bart had given up thinking about the future entirely. He crept toward the computer in Don’s studio and shut the door. Logging into Bart’s account didn’t take long because they had the same passwords for everything. He initiated the call and sat patiently waiting for Conner to answer. It rang three times before Conner answered in his pajamas. Conner took a deep breath and raked a hand through his hair. “Bart! Hi, how are you feeling?” Conner smiled.

Thad stared directly at Conner, speechless at first. “I’m okay… I’m sleepy, but it’s nice to see you,” Thad replied. He was sure Conner would see right through him.

Conner wrung his hands. “Hey, can I—? It’s Valentine’s Day tomorrow, so I wanted to tell you over this call because—. Because the letter might not get to you on time. Can I read you the card I picked out? The back-up card?” Conner stammered.

Thad nodded. Conner recited a Valentine that read as romantic with an innocence that seemed too young for even his eleven years. Thad’s cheeks went rosy as he listened to Conner stumble clumsily through a short Valentine’s Day poem. Thad held up the mood ring around his neck and nodded. “I’ll be your Valentine forever and ever if you want,” Thad whispered. “You’re so special.” Conner smiled.

“Gosh… I’m so glad—. How does it feel to be home?” Conner questioned.

Bart. He had to remember to be Bart. “It’s the best. I get to be with Mom and Dad, and tonight, I’ll sleep in my bed. And my bed’s blankets won’t be warm like the hospital’s. They’ll be cold, and I’ll be—. Conner, I’m so happy… And so tired,” Thad answered. He spoke as fast and warmly as his twin. It was almost frightening how perfectly he imitated Bart. “How are you?”

Conner knit his brows together before smiling. “I’m doing great… Yeah, um… My dad’s coming… We’re going fishing at the lake. I’m kinda excited. Last weekend, Mom took me to the movies, and then we had spaghetti at a restaurant… Are you doing anything special with your mom and dad this weekend?”

“My dad and I are gonna work on the mural in Mom’s office tomorrow… And mom’s gonna show me how to fix the water heater,” Thad answered, “Fishing sounds cool. Have you done it before?”

“Fishing? Yeah, I go with Pa a lot… But I haven’t had the chance to go fishing with my dad yet,” Conner answered.

Thad nodded and let Conner continue speaking. He could’ve listened to Conner talk about anything. The only problem was Thad was exhausted. He yawned without meaning to, and Conner rubbed his eyes. “Okay… Well, we should probably go to bed. Goodnight, Bart. Tonight was fun,” Conner whispered.

“Yeah. It was… Wasn’t it?” Thad grinned. Conner nodded. “Goodnight.”

They waved at each other before logging out, and Thad crept down the hall to his bedroom. Bart lay half-asleep as if he were waiting for Thad. “He couldn’t tell. Could he?” Bart asked. Thad shook his head and climbed in on the other side. “Thank you.”

“It was fun,” Thad whispered as he fixed his hair.

As tired as Bart was, he didn’t want to sleep. It was his first night back home. “It doesn’t feel real. Are you real?” Bart asked as he playfully squeezed Thad’s nose.

Thad giggled and shook his head. “Bart, I’m glad you’re home,” Thad whispered. They whispered and giggled until Don poked his head in the door.

“Hey, fellas, I know it’s been an exciting day, but it’s past your bedtime guys,” Don whispered.

Meloni knocked on the door frame. “Hey, are you kids too old to give me a kiss goodnight?” Meloni questioned. The boys laughed and opened their arms to hug and kiss their parents goodnight. They hadn’t been together since Bart and Thad were six. Meloni squeezed them tight. “Is everyone warm and cozy?”

“Mhm,” Bart whispered.

“Thanks, Mom,” Thad smiled. Don lingered after Meloni left.

Don wanted to say something but didn’t want to get choked up. Bart shut his eyes, reached for Thad, and went to sleep. Thad looked toward Don with a smile and tears in his eyes. “I’m too happy to sleep,” Thad whispered. Don grinned.

“Want me to sit with you for a while?” Don asked. Thad nodded. “You’re all he talked about in the hospital.” Don described the seemingly endless list of things Bart wanted to do with Thad now that they were together again. Thad’s eyelids drooped, and he nodded off, resting his chin on Bart’s forehead. “I guess nothing’s changed… Not even the way you two kids sleep… Goodnight, sweet boys.” Don flicked the light switch off and smiled. Meloni startled Don as soon as he stepped into the hall, and she chuckled.

“I got you, Donnie,” Meloni smiled as she pressed her face into the fabric of his sweatshirt. “Are they asleep?”

“Sound asleep,” Don replied.

Meloni took in a deep breath, raising her shoulders as she spread her arms. Don hugged her, walking backward toward the kitchen while taking in her radiant look of admiration. “You want me to make you a late-night snack, huh?” Don half-joked.

“You already did… Can I have half your sandwich?” Meloni asked.

“That’s our sandwich, Mel,” Don sweetly replied, “We can finally breathe… Can’t we?”

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 10/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano, Jewish Superfam

Chapter Ten: Leukapheresis

“Stinky,” Bart rasped. Thad shushed him as he tapped on the glass. By this time, they were ten, and Bart’s health was worse than ever. “What are you doing-?”

“Be quiet. Your doctor said it was okay to tell you. I wanted to explain it because you would’ve said no to her. You aren’t gonna say no to me,” Thad whispered. Bart climbed out of bed and staggered to the chair by the door. Thad stared at the ground. He hadn’t seen Bart in months and had to explain things before he was too emotional to talk. “I’m gonna do the stem cell donation-.”

“I told you I wouldn’t-.”

“Shut up… I’m not doing this for you. I’m doing this for myself because I need my brother back. Don’t you wanna come home?” Thad questioned.

Bart trembled as he thought about Thad’s words. He wanted to say no, but his pain muddled his thoughts. “What did Mom and Dad say?” Bart asked as he shut his eyes. He knew he wouldn’t make it through another trip to the emergency room.

“They said it was up to me. It’s not dangerous… I read about it. I asked questions. I know this procedure inside and out,” Thad explained, “All you need to do is say okay. Let me keep my promise to you.”

Bart ran a hand over his face as tears fell from his eyes. “I don’t have a choice, do I?” Bart whimpered. Thad pressed his hand to the glass, shaking his head as he cried with his twin. “I’m sorry.”

“I’m not,” Thad whispered. And he smiled. “Your doctor’s coming… She’s gonna ask you if you’ll take my stem cells. And you better say yes. That’s how you can pay me back.”

Bart wiped his eyes and nodded. “I don’t know if I can pay you back this time,” Bart whimpered.

“You’ll find a way,” Thad replied with a gentle smile.

“I’m so tired, Stink,” Bart cried.

“I know, Smelly… Hang in there. I’m counting on you,” Thad whispered as he waved goodbye.

*

After five days' worth of injections, Thad came in for his first round of leukapheresis. Meloni sat with him in his bed. “Does it hurt?” Meloni asked. Thad shook his head. “Do you have to go potty?”

“Mom,” Thad whispered as his cheeks went rosy. “No, I’m fine. Is Smelly awake?” Meloni shook her head as she turned the TV down.

“Bart’s so sleepy lately, sweetheart. I can check with Dad. Let’s see,” Meloni whispered as she grabbed the walkie-talkie off the bed. “Is anybody awake in Starbase six? Over.”

“Mom, none of us say—.”

“Starbase six to Admiral Mom. I’m taking the afternoon watch for Commander Dad. Is Captain Thad awake? Over,” Bart whispered. Meloni giggled.

“Bart? Are you watching TV? Over,” Thad asked.

Meloni relaxed her shoulders for the first time since the donation process started. “No, my eyes are tired. Thad, are you okay? Does it hurt? Over,” Bart questioned.

“Nope. It’s not bad at all. It’s weird. That’s all,” Thad whispered, “Don’t worry about me. In a few weeks, you’ll be all better. Are you tired? Over.”

“A little. Are you? Over,” Bart replied.

Thad hadn’t slept in two days, but no one else knew. “I’ll be okay. Over,” Thad whispered.

“I could read to you,” Bart offered, “And before you tell me I don’t have to, I want to read to you. Dad gave me your bag by accident. You’re reading The Secret Garden. Do you want me to start from the beginning? Over.”

“Okay. Over,” Thad smiled. Bart started reading gently with a darkness in his tone that amused Thad. Thad shut his eyes, listening to Bart’s voice. He listened until he started feeling strange. His eyes shot open, and he whimpered.

“What’s wrong, Starshine?” Meloni questioned.

Thad shook his head, chewing his lip and stomaching the discomfort. The tingling in his legs turned to cramping, and he tried to hum the pain away. “Thaddeus, what is it?” Meloni asked as she stepped outside to grab a nurse. “Please—.”

“My legs hurt,” Thad mumbled.

The nurse nodded as she gently patted Thad on his ankle. “We can help—.”

“We can’t stop the—.”

“Don’t worry. We’ll get some calcium in while we do the treatment… Okay?” the nurse reassured him. Meloni grabbed his left leg at the calf and smoothed it. “It’s alright… Just—. Focus on Bart’s voice,” Meloni stammered. She wanted to cry, but there was nowhere for her to retreat. She had to be there with Thad.

“Are you still awake, Stink? Over,” Bart asked.

Meloni took the walkie-talkie and held it up for Thad to speak. “Uh-huh,” Thad answered. He took a breath and broke down. “Over.”

“Thad, you don’t have to do this for me. I’ve been around this long… I’ll make it until we figure something else out. This is too much. Over,” Bart whispered.

“No, it’s not. No—. You don’t have that—. You’re suffering,” Thad cried, “I can do this for you. It’s the only thing I can do. I can’t do anything else… Over.”

“You don’t have to do anything. Just—. If I don’t make it, can you forgive yourself? Please. Over,” Bart whispered into the walkie-talkie.

“Smelly, don’t say that. Please don’t say that. You promised you’d let me try,” Thad sobbed, “I can do it. Please, don’t take this from me. I can’t sit here and do nothing—.”

Meloni let out a sob. “Oh god. I’m sorry… I need to get out of here. I need to—.” Meloni gave the nurse the walkie-talkie and fled the room. She stood in the hallway, facing the wall, and held her fists to her chest. Barry could see her from the end of the hall.

“Meloni?” Barry called as he approached her. Meloni ignored him, sobbing as she tried to talk herself down. “Mel, it’s me, Barry. It’s Dad.”

“I’m completely useless here. I can’t make either of my sons feel better. I can’t even—. I couldn’t make a medical decision for either of them—. I can’t—. Dad, I can’t breathe,” Meloni gasped for air between sentences. Barry opened his arms, and she walked into his warm embrace.

“How’s Spike?” Barry questioned.

“His legs hurt, and he’s—. Thad feels responsible for shouldering all of this. Dad, I can’t—. There’s nothing in my power. There’s nothing I can do,” Meloni answered, “I’m their mom.”

“Yeah… And you’re a great mom. Fantastic. The worst of it is almost over. Thad is a match for Bart, and all we have to do now is wait,” Barry replied, “We’re gonna wait. Okay, Jellybean?” Barry kissed the top of her head. Meloni nodded. Meloni caught her breath, relaxing as Barry spoke. Meloni hadn’t spoken to her father since she married Don, but Barry filled that space for her. He was a father to her in every sense of the word. Barry didn’t mind it. It gave him a distraction from his worries about Thad and Bart.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 9/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano, Jewish Superfam

Chapter Nine: Return of Cowboy Conner

The arrival at the Kent farm meant goodbye for Lois and Clark. They took him to the front door with heavy hearts, and Lois took Conner’s hand. “Thank you for giving us a chance,” Lois whispered.

“Wait, Mommy… You aren’t gonna stay a little while?” Conner asked. Clark and Lois went wide-eyed. “Mommy… Daddy, can you stay another day?”

“Of course, Conner. Um—. I’m going to talk to Ma and Pa,” Clark whispered before kissing his son’s forehead. “Ma! Pa!” Clark ran inside with a childlike excitement Conner hadn’t ever seen before. He giggled.

“Mommy, do you think it’d be okay for me to see Banna?” Conner asked.

“Oh, Conner. Before you see Banna, come in and have a slice of pie. Pa and I want to tell you something,” Ma replied from the other room. Lois and Conner entered the house and joined Ma and Clark in the kitchen.

Conner hugged Ma and frowned. “Is something wrong with Banna?” Conner whimpered.

“Nope. Banna’s going to be a mommy. Today, actually. That’s where Pa is right now. He’s with the vet. Banna went into labor thirty minutes ago,” Ma replied.

Conner ran off toward the barn, and Lois moved to stop him, only for Clark to shake his head. “Let him go. He should be there,” Clark smiled.

Conner sprinted across the field to the barn and took his place by Pa’s side. “Hey there, Kiddo. Clark didn’t sit in on his first calf birthin’ until he was twelve. Are you sure you want to be here?” Pa asked.

“Uh-huh,” Conner replied. Pa smiled.

“Can you go out and fetch more warm water in the pail? It’ll help Doc Paula out,” Pa requested.

Conner nodded, taking the bucket toward the house. “Ma! Ma!” Conner shouted. Ma took the pail from Conner and filled it with warm water. “Is the water warm?”

“It sure is, Conner. Hey, I made you, Doc Hale, and Pa some lunch. Can you carry it with the pail? Or do you need some help?” Ma asked. Conner grabbed the pail, weighing it as he considered her question.

“I hafta carry it with both hands,” Conner whispered, “I can come back after I get the bucket to Pa and Doc Paula.”

“No, uh—. I’ll come with you. I’ll carry the bucket, so you can carry lunch to Pa,” Clark volunteered, “I won’t go in with you, though.”

Conner squinted at Clark. “Are you scared?” Conner asked. Clark nodded.

“Calving makes me a bit squeamish,” Clark replied. Conner nodded as Clark took the pail and handed Conner the picnic basket. “Pa seem calm?”

“Mhm. Is it gonna take long?” Conner asked.

“If everything goes well, it should be four hours or less,” Clark replied, “You gonna be okay?”

“Mhm. As long as Banna’s okay,” Conner replied, “Are you mad that I don’t want to go to school in Metropolis anymore?”

“No. I understand. Conner, did you like anything about Metropolis?” Clark questioned. Conner smiled up at Clark, completely unafraid of Clark for the first time.

“You and Mommy… And I liked going to the synagogue with you. And the mole trains,” Conner answered. Clark took Conner’s free hand and chuckled.

“The subway was fun,” Clark whispered as if he were speaking to himself and not Conner. “We’re going to visit all the time. Way more than we did before. Okay?”

“Promise?” Conner asked.

They stopped at the barn, and Clark swallowed hard. “I promise. It won’t be like before. We can video chat every single day after school,” Clark offered. Conner nodded and embraced Clark.

“Gonna hold you to that, Daddy,” Conner grinned as he took the basket to Pa and returned to Clark to retrieve the bucket.

*

Pa woke Conner toward the end of Banna’s labor. “Hey, Kiddo. Wake up, I think it’s time,” Pa whispered. Conner looked up, watching as the doctor pulled the calf from Banna.

“Wanna cut the navel cord, Conner?” Doc Paula asked.

Conner nodded, and Doc Paula told him to wash his hands. She gave him the scissors and guided his hand. “Is it gonna hurt them?” Conner asked.

“It’s a normal part of calving,” Doc Paula replied, “Okay… Cut here, sweetheart.”

Conner obeyed and rejoined Pa. “I did it,” Conner whispered. Pa caught a picture with his camera, proudly smiling at his grandson’s accomplishment.

“You’ll hafta name her,” Pa replied. Conner’s jaw dropped. “Yeah, go on. You earned it.”

“Toffee,” Conner replied.

“That was quick. Toffee it is,” Pa chuckled, “Good job, Conner. Hey, Kiddo? How was Metropolis? Did you like city livin’?”

“Thanks, Pa… Everyone lives so close to each other in Metropolis, and the buildings are so tall. We lived on the seventh floor. Everybody looks small from the seventh floor. Then, my friend lived next door, but he was sick and couldn’t come over to play… Then—. Pa, why are some kids born sick? Daddy says it’s science, but why can’t we fix science?” Conner replied.

“Scientists can only do so much. We’re still figuring out how all of this works. Humans are smart, but nature is so complex, Kiddo. The world is full of things we don’t understand. Why is the sky blue? Why do people hate each other sometimes? Why do we cry sometimes? There’s so much we don’t understand,” Pa explained.

“I wish we understood how to make people feel better,” Conner replied. Pa nodded.

“I know, Conner. Let’s wash up. It’s almost dinnertime—.”

“Can I stay with Banna and Toffee?” Conner interrupted. Pa nodded.

“I’ll have Clark and Lois bring your supper,” Pa whispered, “And hey… I’m glad you’re home. I was short a cowboy this year.”

Pa placed his hat on Conner’s head and left him with the vet and the cows. Clark paced outside the house with his arms crossed and his hands tucked awkwardly in his armpits. “Pa! How’d—?”

“Everything went fine. Conner cut the cord for the doctor, but now he wants to sit with Banna and Toffee for a while. You should check on him, though. He looks like he’s carrying a lot,” Pa replied. Clark frowned and nodded. “How sick is that friend of his?”

“The medication messes with his memory. He’s forgetting names and faces… He couldn’t remember Conner’s name off the top of his head most of the time. Then, he sleeps most of the day until their playdate,” Clark answered, “But the big issue is his immunity problems. That’s why he doesn’t go out.”

“Do you think—? Do you know if Conner would be up for a party? We invited some of his friends to welcome him back next weekend. A few kids from the temple, a couple more kids from his school, and a few of the neighboring farmers’ kids,” Pa whispered. Clark smiled.

“He’ll love that,” Clark replied, “Hey, Pa? I think I need—. We might stick around for a while.”

Pa messed up Clark’s hair. “He’s especially hard to let go of. Isn’t he?” Pa chuckled. Clark nodded and laughed.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 8/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano, Jewish Superfam

Chapter Eight: Long-Term

Bart had to leave Metropolis at the end of the school year to live with his Uncle Max in Manchester. The specialist there had a better track record with patients with Bart’s condition. Packing was less than ideal for the two Allens. Bart threw his clothes out of the suitcase. “I don’t wanna go!” Bart screamed and cried. Barry grabbed Bart and tried to pry the suitcase from Bart’s fingers. Max uncurled Bart’s fingers and took him from Barry.

Max held Bart with a stern and unmoved expression. “You need to stop,” Max commanded. Bart sobbed and thrashed in Max’s arms.

“I don’t want you! I want Grandpa!” Bart screamed. Barry put Bart’s clothes back in the suitcase and sat with his face in his hands.

“Sparky, please… Grandpa loves you so much,” Barry whispered, “I’m upset too, Sparky. I’m tired, and I’m scared and-. Grandpa wants to help, but he can’t anymore.”

Bart fell into a coughing fit, and Barry hopped up, grabbed Bart’s inhaler, and shook it. He handed the inhaler to Max despite the desire to do that himself. “Mask over his mouth and nose… Tell him to breathe out, then on the count of three, tell him to breathe in while you give him a puff,” Barry explained. Max did as Barry told him, and Bart shook violently afterward. Max held Bart and rubbed his back.

Barry put on his mask and stepped out of the apartment. He met eyes with Lois, and she chewed her lip. “I can’t-. He doesn’t understand why this is happening… He’s never going to forgive me,” Barry wept.

“Bart adores you,” Lois reassured him.

He pulled himself together and swallowed hard. “Lois, how’s Conner taking this?” Barry asked in an attempt to distract himself.

Lois forced a smile before bursting into tears. “Conner said he doesn’t have any other friends,” Lois whimpered, “He’s been here ten months and hasn’t made a single friend.” Barry wept with her.

Barry couldn’t let go of the time he spent with his grandson. Despite the hospitalizations and the sleepless nights, Barry cherished every moment with Bart. The thought of parting frightened him. Barry always feared Bart would pass the moment they parted ways. “When Donny told me Mel was having twins-. It was the most exciting feeling in the world… Then, they were born, and Bart got sick almost immediately-. I know he could pass at any time. That’s not-. Six years isn’t enough time,” Barry rambled. They sat in the hallway, and Lois grabbed his hand.

“He’ll be okay… I’ve got a good feeling about that doctor in Alabama,” Lois whispered, “Are you gonna be alright? Clark said we could fly with you if you don’t feel like being alone.”

“You guys don’t have to put yourselves-.”

“We’re gonna take Conner home anyway… Missouri’s one state away. It’d be nice. One last stop before we do the right thing-.”

“What do you mean?” Barry questioned.

“Conner isn’t happy here… It isn’t for a lack of trying. He likes going to the synagogue with Clark and hanging out at the Planet, but school-. He’s isolated. Barry, he belongs in Smallville,” Lois replied. Barry nodded.

“That’s hard… I’m sorry,” Barry whispered.

Max stepped into the hall, holding Bart. “He’s asleep… Can you hold him while I get his suitcase?” Max asked. “Oh… Um-. I’m Max Crandall, Bart’s uncle. You must be Lois.” He nodded at her.

“Nice to meet you… I wish it were under better circumstances. We’re all a mess right now,” Lois chuckled nervously.

Clark came out to the hall holding Conner. “Oh, what a nice coincidence. Hi, everyone. You must be Max. Conner, this is Bart’s uncle,” Clark explained.

Conner tapped Clark’s shoulder, and Clark set him down. Conner approached and forced a smile. “Please take good care of my friend. I love him very much, Mr. Max,” Conner whispered, “And I hope you have fun with him even if I can’t hear him laugh through the walls anymore.”

“Thank you, Conner,” Max smiled.

“Wait, Mr. Max… Mr. Max, can you wait here?” Conner asked. Max nodded while Conner ran inside and grabbed a notebook. “Bart likes to read letters when he’s in the hospital. I wrote him a letter every time he went to the hospital. Sometimes, Bart’s too sick to read, so you can read them to him. I filled the book.”

“This is a thoughtful going away present. I think Bart-. I think he’ll appreciate this,” Max smiled.

*

Max drove two hours before Bart woke up. The small boy yawned and stretched his arms and legs. “You have a kitchen in your car,” Bart whispered. He raked a hand through his thick curls before clutching the side of his head. “Am I dreaming?”

“Nope… This is a recreational vehicle. An RV… I used to live in this poor thing,” Max replied. Bart swung his feet until he caught his backpack and pulled it to his lap. “Whatcha got there, Bart?”

“I gotta take a picture for Stink,” Bart answered as he pulled out a disposable camera and snapped a picture of the kitchen. “Can I talk to Mommy and Daddy on your phone?”

“When I pull over… Okay?” Max replied. Bart put his camera away and opened his notebook. “What do you do to stay occupied during these long drives?”

“Sometimes, I write letters to Stink about what I see. Grandpa says it’s good to tell him about what I see,” Bart explained, “Where is Manchester?”

“Alabama,” Max answered. Bart nodded and clasped his hands together. “Did you get to see Metropolis while you were there?”

“Nuh-uh,” Bart replied, “But it’s gonna be different soon.”

Max inhaled through his nose, trying to find something to say that was kind and true. Bart’s condition was much worse than everyone let on. The medication made him sleepy, and he started forgetting things. It was little things at first, like where he put his toys. Then he started forgetting the names of characters he liked… And finally, Bart called Barry daddy on accident. It wasn’t an average slip of the tongue. Bart called Barry daddy for an entire day. Barry didn’t correct him at first, wanting to see if Bart could fix the slip without assistance, but he didn’t. It frightened Barry, but Max was much more levelheaded about the issue. Max understood Barry couldn’t shoulder Bart’s loss… And the specialist in Manchester was better anyway. “Bart, what’d you have for breakfast this morning?” Max questioned.

“Grandpa made me eat a banana,” Bart replied. Max smiled.

“Short-term memory’s good,” Max commended him. Bart thanked him. He didn’t understand Max’s compliment, so he returned to his notebook. “Your first appointment is next week. Your doctor’s name is Lila. She’s excited to meet you.”

“Why?” Bart asked.

“Because Lila’s good with sick kids… And she thinks she can make you feel better,” Max answered. Bart squinted. “What?”

“You’re too old to be an uncle,” Bart observed.

“That’s not true. There’s no age requirement for uncles,” Max corrected.

“My auntie isn’t as old as you,” Bart replied.

“I am a friend of your grandfather. Uncle is just-. It’s like a nickname. I’m not your real-. I’m kind of an uncle,” Max stammered.

Bart swung his feet as he smirked. “Grown-ups are silly. How come you didn’t say you don’t know? I tell people I don’t know all the time,” Bart giggled. Max laughed too.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 4/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano

Chapter Four: Status Report

Conner silently unpacked his belongings once they arrived in Metropolis. His room was much larger there. Clark and Lois spoke quietly in the next room. “He looks so sad… Maybe we were being selfish-.”

“Maybe it’s time we tell him about his surprise,” Lois interrupted. Clark nodded. “Conner, can you come out for a minute?”

Conner opened his room door and forced a smile. He didn’t want them to think he didn’t like them. “What’s the matter?” Conner asked.

“Nothing… We have a surprise for you, remember?” Lois asked. Conner nodded. “Do you remember your friend, Bart, from the fair? Well, his grandpa is friends with Clark, and they’re moving in next door soon so Bart can go to the doctor here. You might not be able to see him in person, but we talked to his grandpa about video conferences and letters. All sorts of fun stuff for you kids to do together while he’s sick.”

“What’s a video conference?” Conner asked.

Clark walked toward the kitchen. “Video conferences are like phone calls on the computer, except you can see each other,” Clark explained. Conner cocked his head. “You’ll see next week.”

“I understand what you mean, but how can he see me on the computer? And how come you don’t do this with Ma and Pa? They have a computer,” Conner wondered.

“Well-. Ma and Pa don’t have a webcam, but we could get them one, then we can have a video conference with them sometimes,” Lois suggested. Conner smiled and nodded. “Okay. We can do that, Scout.”She pushed his bangs back and glanced at Clark. Conner returned the gesture.

*

Lois set up the computer for Conner and Bart’s video playdate the afternoon before Conner’s first day of school. “Okay, Gup’. You’re all set,” Clark whispered as the chime rang on the call.

Conner grabbed Clark’s wrist. “I’m nervous,” Conner whispered, “Can you stay?”

“I can stay,” Clark reassured him as Bart answered the call. Barry waved to Clark, and Bart waved to Conner. Bart was in good spirits despite the dark circles around his eyes and the worried look on his grandfather’s face.

“Can you hear me?” Bart rasped. Barry looked down toward him. He looked concerned. Conner nodded. “Now you say something so I can hear you.”

Barry shook up an inhaler and connected it to a spacer and mask. He gave Bart a puff. “Breathe in. Good,” Barry whispered.

“Grandpa, I’m okay,” Bart whispered before turning to the camera. “Say something.”

“Can you hear me too?” Conner asked. Bart grinned.

“Uh-huh… Hey! Do you wanna see my favorite toy?”Bart asked. He was so excited that Conner couldn’t say no if he wanted to.

“Okay,” Conner smiled.

“Go get yours,” Bart replied before hopping off Barry’s lap and traveling out of sight of the camera.

Clark looked at Conner and nodded. “Go ahead… It’s okay,” Clark reassured. Conner walked quickly to the toy box in his room and returned with a single Transformer toy. Barry picked Bart up and resumed holding onto the fidgety six-year-old.

Bart held his Power Ranger up to the camera. “I like him because he can run fast,” Bart explained.

“I like him because he turns into a semi-truck,” Conner replied as he held his Transformer toy to the camera. “I like your Dino Red Ranger.”

“Yesterday, Grandpa played Power Rangers with me in the car. He couldn’t hold the Blue Ranger because he was driving, and we didn’t have any of the villain toys from the show, but I had some toy dinosaurs. So, we took them to the dinosaur zoo… But I think Grandpa was trying to get me to put some of my toys away,” Bart rambled. Conner hung on every word, even giggling at Bart’s observation.

“Hey, Bart? Do you like space aliens?” Conner asked.

“Yeah,” Bart smiled.

“Do you wanna play space rangers with me sometime?” Conner suggested. “We could be on different planets and give status updates like in the movies.”Bart looked at Barry for permission.

Barry nodded. “Can we play space rangers every day?” Bart asked. Conner grinned.

“Sure! What’s your status report?” Conner asked.

“I landed on Planet Metropolis this morning, and there are so many strange creatures here. I live in base-. Grandpa, what’s our apartment number?” Bart asked, momentarily breaking character.

“We’re in apartment G-7,” Barry answered.

“G-8,” Clark whispered to Conner.

“I live in base G-7, with all the tiny people who live in shells. They have teeny tiny voices, and they click when they bump into each other,” Bart described.

“I live in base G-8 with the seahorses. They don’t make any noise… And they send messages to other planets like mailmen do. They don’t know how to talk, but they all understand each other,” Conner replied. Clark slowly exited the room while Bart and Conner played pretend on the video call.

After half an hour, Bart fell into a coughing fit, and Barry had to end the call early. Clark returned with a glass of warm milk. “Here you go, Scout… How was your playdate?” Clark asked.

“Is Bart gonna die?” Conner asked, his big round eyes filled to the brim with concern. Clark shook his head.

“No, but he might have to go to the hospital for a while,” Clark answered honestly.

“He’s gonna miss school tomorrow,” Conner whispered.

“Bart doesn’t go to school. He’s homeschooled,” Clark explained. Conner drank his milk, and Clark picked him up. “Are you nervous about school?”Clark rinsed out the dish with Conner on his hip.

“I’m not gonna know anybody,” Conner whispered as Clark carried him to his bedroom and tucked him in. “Are you gonna wake me up if my alarm doesn’t go off?”

“I sure could… How’d your first day in Metropolis feel?” Clark questioned. Conner scrunched up his nose.

“It was okay. I liked the part where we got ice cream… Is Lois coming to say goodnight?” Conner asked. Clark nodded. “Are you still scared, Clark?”

“I’m a little less scared right now, but we’ll see how things go,” Clark whispered.

Lois poked her head in the door. “Can I come in to say goodnight?” Lois asked. Conner nodded. Lois joined them. “How’s it going, Scout?”

“I’m okay,” Conner whispered.

“Do you like your room?” Lois asked.

“Uh-huh,” Conner whispered. Lois and Clark kissed him goodnight. “Can you leave the nightlight on? Just for tonight?”

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 3/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano

Chapter Three: Lavender Boy

Conner sat at the table, wide-eyed and pale. “Conner, sweetheart, did you hear what Lois said?” Martha asked. Conner stared ahead at the picture of Clark, Martha, Pa, Lois, and him. Clark just got out of the hospital after coming home. It was Conner’s first memory. Clark’s eyes were dark, clouded, and puffy from the pain medication. Or at least that’s what Clark told him. “Conner?”

“I don’t-. I don’t think I did, Ma,” Conner whispered.

“Conner, you’re gonna spend the school year in Metropolis with us,” Lois whispered. Conner took a sip of his milk.

“It'd be a trial basis… It’s up to you if you want to live with us or not,” Clark whispered. Conner nodded. He didn’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, but Conner had never lived with Clark and Lois. “How do you feel, Conner?”

Conner nodded. “When are we leaving?” Conner asked.

“Tomorrow,” Lois answered.

Conner swallowed hard. “May I be excused? I have to get ready for tomorrow,” Conner whispered.

“Sure, kiddo… Let me come with you,” Pa whispered. He took Conner’s hand, and they went to Conner’s room. Once they were out of earshot of the kitchen, Pa sat on Conner’s bed and bounced Conner on his knee. “It’s their turn… And they’re so excited-.”

“You and Ma don’t want me anymore, do you?” Conner asked.

“That’s not it, Kiddo, we’re your grandparents. Clark and Lois are your parents. We’re moving out of the way to see how they do. It doesn’t mean we won’t miss you while you’re gone,” Pa whispered. He pinched Conner’s cheek.

Conner laid his head on Pa’s chest and clutched Pa’s shirt. “If I want to come back, can I call you?” Conner asked. Pa smiled.

“Sure,” Pa whispered, “But try and give your parents a fair shake… I heard they’ve got a surprise for you once you get there.” Conner craned his neck to meet eyes with Pa.

Conner hopped off Pa’s knee and pulled his suitcase from underneath his bed. Pa sighed and pulled Conner’s pajamas from the dresser. “I raised him, you know… I wouldn’t send you to live anywhere unless I knew you’d be okay,” Pa reassured him. Conner placed the neatly folded clothes into his shark suitcase.

It only took him a few minutes to pack his first bag, but he’d be gone a whole school year. “Conner, I think this is all you’ll need, kiddo. Clark and Lois might wanna get you some new clothes while you’re in the city… A new environment means new clothes,” Pa whispered. Conner frowned and kicked at the air.

“Will you make sure Banna knows I didn’t leave her?” Conner asked. Banna was a blonde cow Conner practically grew up with. He named her when she was born. Banna because he couldn’t say banana.

“I’ll tell her,” Pa replied, “Don’t worry… I’ll let her know.” Pa stepped toward the door, and Conner grabbed his hand.

“Pa, one more thing… Can I sleep with you and Ma tonight?” Conner asked. Pa nodded.

“Go brush your teeth and tell Clark and Lois goodnight first,” Pa commanded. He messed up Conner’s hair. “It’ll be okay…”

Conner washed up and said goodnight to his parents. Then he waited patiently for Ma and Pa to come to bed. He didn’t sleep, even after Ma attempted to soothe him. Conner eventually gave up and climbed out of bed. He crept to the kitchen and met eyes with Lois. She had a slice of pie and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. “Hi, Scout… Want some?” Lois asked. Conner nodded. “Grab a spoon.” Conner obeyed, sitting beside her as she pushed the plate between them.

“Lois, why do you want me now?” Conner asked gently.

“We want to give it a try. We wanna be your mommy and daddy,” Lois answered, “And we want you to know how much we love you.”

Conner ate some of Lois’s vanilla ice cream. “You were a beautiful baby,” Lois smiled, “Gorgeous little fat face and this sweet little head of beautiful black curls. I stayed with-. I stayed here with you at first.”

He didn’t want to hurt her feelings, so he stayed silent. After a while of sitting with her, he nodded off at the counter. Lois carried him to bed. She ran her finger down his cheek as he slept. “We slept in this bed because you were so quiet. You’re still so quiet… Conner, I love you so much,” Lois whispered.

She lingered there, holding onto the image of her sweet-faced son. Clark stood in the doorway, afraid to approach. "Did he seem upset to you?" Clark asked.

“He seemed apprehensive,” Lois answered.

“That’s fair,” Clark whispered, “Apprehension is normal… Did he show any indication that he didn’t want to go?”

“Not as far as I could tell, but I’m not above saying that I’m so excited that I might be blinded by my bias… I hope he likes us,” Lois whispered, “Sometimes I feel like he doesn’t like us. He’s so quiet.”

“He barely knows us,” Clark whispered, “I don’t think his silence-. I don’t know. I want him to like us too.” Lois laid her head on Clark’s chest. “I feel awful for springing this on him… But I see his little face and-.”

“His chubby little cheeks… And he makes you want to hold on for dear life,” Lois interrupted. Someone knocked on the door, and Clark got up to answer. Conner stood in the doorway with tears in his eyes.

Clark picked Conner up and held him without so much as a word. “I’m scared,” Conner whispered.

“We are too, Gup’. We are too,” Clark confessed, “But that’s okay because we love you so much… Conner, I know this is nerve-wracking, but-. Conner, can we give this a try?”

“Why are you scared?” Conner asked as Clark wiped his tears away.

“We want you to love us… We want you to have memories with us,��� Clark whispered, “We wanna be your parents.”

Conner held on tight to Clark. “Can I sleep in your bed then?” Conner asked. Clark glanced at Lois, and she nodded.

“Okay,” Clark whispered. He carried Conner to their bed and let the small, chubby-faced boy curl into a ball between them. Lois turned on her side and draped an arm over him. It was a small victory for Lois and Clark. He slept through the night, and they cherished his sweet sighs.

Conner tossed and turned, but his sleep was far from restless. Part of Conner enjoyed having Clark and Lois close by. “He smells good,” Lois whispered.

Clark chuckled. “I know, right,” Clark replied, smiling ear-to-ear.

Conner smelled like lavender. It didn’t hurt that he picked lavender from the herb garden as part of his afternoon chores. Clark and Lois giggled as they reveled in their tiny victory. “Should we tell him about the surprise tomorrow morning, or should we tell him when we get there?” Lois questioned.

“We’ll let him know when we get there,” Clark replied, “I wanna see the look on his face.”

Conner rolled onto his stomach, raising one arm over his head. “Can he sleep like that?” Lois asked.

“If he doesn’t turn in a few minutes, I’ll flip him over,” Clark reassured her. Lois narrowed her eyes, and Clark rolled Conner over.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

A Yellow Ribbon

Fandom: DC Comics, Young Justice, Flashfam, Superfam

Summary: Conner's been best friends with Bart ever since they met at the carnival when they were children. The problem is that Bart can't remember meeting Conner that night. But Thad does...

Chapters: 2/?

Characters: Clark Kent, Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Bart Allen, Thaddeus Thawne, Don Allen, Meloni Allen, Jonathan "Pa" Kent, Martha Kent, Max Crandall

Relationships: KonBart, KonThad, Clois, MelonixDon, Ma/Pa Kent

Additional Tags: No Powers AU, Mistaken Identity, Possibly Unrequited Love, Unrequited Crush, Twins, Lies, Stolen Moments, Unconventional Love Triangles, Misunderstandings, Childhood Friends, Complicated Relationships, Family Dynamics, Family Bonding, Best Friends, Secret Crush, Autistic Bart Allen, Autistic Thad Thawne, Thaddeus Thawne Gets a Hug, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Third Person POV, Hurt Clark Kent, Boys in Love, Friendship/Love, Farm/Ranch AU, Farmboy Conner Kent, Grandparents and Grandchildren, Unconventional Families, Unconventional Relationship, Romance, Light Angst, Strangers to Lovers, Cyrano

Chapter Two: Chicken Fried

Clark allowed Conner to lead him to the train ride. It was the first ride Conner had ever been on, and he would ride it every year since he was two years old. It was his favorite. "Clark? Are you sure it's okay that I didn't do my chores before we left?" Conner questioned.

Clark nodded. "Don't worry. I took care of everything when I got in," Clark reassured him. A redheaded man got on the train across from them, holding his son's hand.

"Hi, Bart," Conner waved.

Bart's eyes widened, and he waved. "How do you know my name?" Bart asked.

Conner knit his brows together. "You told me your name last night. I'm Conner, remember?" Conner questioned. Bart shook his head and turned his face upward toward the sky. He seemed different, but Conner assumed he was more comfortable in the daylight.

"I like your shoes, Conner," Bart complimented as he knocked his heels together until his shoes lit up.

Clark leaned forward and introduced himself to the redheaded man. "Hi, I'm Clark Kent... Looks like our sons know each other," Clark grinned.

"Don Allen... Actually... I think you know my father," Don smiled, "Barry Allen."

"Oh yeah! I do know your father. How is he?" Clark asked.

"He's doing alright. We're staying with him for a few weeks this summer," Don replied. Conner and Bart swung their feet until they touched their shoes together. "Hey, why're you wearing a mask?" Conner asked. Bart looked at him briefly and then at Don.

"I got out of the hospital the other day. If I wear the mask, I won't get sick again," Bart answered.

"Oh, okay. I'm glad you're not sick anymore," Conner replied.

"What do we say, Bartholomew?" Don whispered.

"Oh! Thank you, Conner," Bart replied, "Daddy? How come I have to say thank you when people say things they're supposed to say?"

"Because it's polite. Being polite to people is important because it makes them feel good," Don replied.

"Wouldya feel bad if I didn't tell you thanks?" Bart asked Conner. Conner knit his brows together as he pondered Bart's question.

"Don't reckon I would've noticed... But it did make me feel good to hear you say thanks," Conner smiled. Clark chuckled, and Don did too.

Don and Clark continued their conversation while Conner and Bart talked to one another. When the ride stopped, Clark and Don exchanged numbers. "Where to next?" Clark asked.

"The little Ferris wheel?" Conner replied. Bart grabbed Conner's other hand.

"We'll all go," Don replied, looking at Clark for clarification. Clark nodded. From that moment on, the boys were inseparable. They spent four hours at the fair together before Don's watch went off. "Time to go, Bart."

"I don't wanna go," Bart whined. Don picked him up.

"We've gotta go eat with Grandpa, remember?" Don whispered. Bart nodded. "Thank you for not crying. We can always call Conner's dad and play with him later."

"Okay," Bart mumbled. He waved at Conner and Clark, and then they were gone. Soon after, Clark got a ping on his cellphone.

"Is that Lois?" Conner questioned. Clark nodded as he answered the phone.

"We're by the concessions... You want some funnel cake while we're over here?" Clark questioned.

Conner tugged Clark's sleeve. "Sorry... Could I get something for lunch?" Conner asked. Clark nodded.

"Where do you wanna eat, Conner?" Clark questioned.

"Across the street... I want a strawberry muffin and boneless wings," Conner whispered.

"Lois, let's go across the street and get lunch. Conner wants wings," Clark replied, "Yeah, I think that'll be easier. Love you too... Bye-bye."

Clark took Conner through the crowd and picked Conner up before crossing the street. Conner rested his chin on Clark's shoulder and whispered, "I can see Lois from up here."

"Yeah? Where is she?" Clark asked. He rubbed Conner's back. It comforted Clark to have his son close, and Conner leaned into the display of affection.

"She can see us too," Conner replied.

"What's going on, Scout?" Lois questioned.

"Did you get enough sleep?" Conner asked. Lois smiled and messed up his hair.

"I sure did," Lois replied. They entered the restaurant, and a waitress brought a complimentary basket of muffins and three glasses of water. Conner took a bite of a muffin and a sip of his water.

Meals were quiet when Martha and Jonathan weren't around to buffer. "Conner made a friend at the fair," Clark announced.

"His name's Bart," Conner replied, "He's six years old... And he has to wear a mask because he got out of the hospital."

"Oh," Lois whispered, "Is he from Smallville?"

"I don't think so... Clark knew his Grandpa," Conner explained, "How do you know his grandpa, Clark?"

"We're in the same club. Barry's a good friend of mine," Clark answered. The waitress brought them some sweet tea and their meal. Lois whispered something to Clark, and he shook his head. "Not right now."

"What's not right now?" Conner questioned in between bites. Clark chewed his lip.

"We have a surprise for you later on," Lois replied.

Conner sucked the sauce off his fingers. "Okay... Do Ma and Pa get a surprise too?" Conner asked. Clark nodded.

"Ma and Pa always get a surprise when we visit," Clark replied. Conner ate his french fries, and Clark put a straw in his chocolate milk and gave Conner a sip.

Conner was too old to need help with his drink, but he didn't mind Clark's effort. Clark ate with a fork and knife while Lois ate her wings with her hands, not caring if she got sauce on her face. Clark laughed, and Conner wiped her face with a napkin. "Oh, thank you, honey pie... You're so sweet," Lois smiled. Conner blushed.

"Thank you, Lois," Conner whispered. Once Clark paid for the food, Lois and Clark took Conner to an antique shop as promised. Conner went straight toward the jewelry to look for a ring to wear around his neck. Clark gave him the first one when he returned home. It was a small mood ring Clark found at the airport. Clark was still traumatized and fragile after his discharge from the hospital. He gave it to Conner, tying a string around it as a reminder of his love. He was shocked that Conner gave it away, but Clark knew Conner was too young to understand what things like that meant.

Conner stood on his toes to look into the glass case, and Clark picked him up. "Lookit, we can all get the same one," Conner whispered as he pointed to a little box on top of the glass case. A young man approached the counter. He asked if they were interested in something, and Conner nodded.

"Can we get three of these little mood rings?" Clark asked. They looked exactly like the one he gave Conner. "You want us all to have one?"

"So that you'll know I love you no matter where you are, too," Conner replied. Clark kissed Conner's cheek.

"You are the sweetest boy in the whole world," Lois whispered.