Chapter 6: Epilogue
Several months had passed since the night of Lois's revelation. Clark was still behind bars, and Lois was now heavy with child. Henry, on the other hand, had become more obsessed with his love for Lois than ever, and the Dream Stone had only given him more power.
One day, Perry, the gruff but fair editor-in-chief of the Daily Planet, called everyone into the conference room for a special announcement.
Lois sat at her desk, her fingers tracing the edge of her keyboard as she waited for the meeting to start.
Her mind was elsewhere, consumed by the thoughts of her child growing in her belly. Henry was the father, but it was Clark she couldn't get out of her mind. She couldn't help but think about how different her life would have been if Clark were the one sitting next to her, his hand covering hers in support. But that was just a distant dream, one that she would never be able to obtain.
Perry walked into the room, his usual gruff demeanor replaced with a softer smile. "Thanks for coming, everyone," he said, taking his place at the front of the room.
"I know it's not every day that we get together for a special announcement, so I'll cut to the chase."
He paused, looking around the room at each of his employees. "I'm proud to announce that Lois is expecting a baby."
The room erupted in applause, everyone rushing forward to congratulate Lois and offer their well-wishes. She smiled, feeling a little overwhelmed by the outpouring of support.
"Thank you, everyone," she said, her voice choked with emotion. "This means the world to me."
Perry nodded, tears in his eyes. "We couldn't be happier for you, Lois," he said gruffly. "And don't worry about taking time off. We'll cover for you until you're ready to come back."
Lois thanked him before turning her attention back to her colleagues. She looked around the room, feeling a sense of belonging that she hadn't felt in a long time.
They were her friends, her family. They supported her, loved her, and encouraged her to be the best person she could be. Even Perry, the gruff and occasionally intimidating editor-in-chief of the Daily Planet, had a kind word to say.
"You've always been a top journalist, Lois. I have no doubt that you'll make an amazing mother," he said, offering her a handshake.
She smiled, accepting the gesture. "Thank you, Perry.
I appreciate your words," Lois responded, her voice still filled with emotion. She paused for a moment, taking a deep breath before continuing. "I will be taking some time off, as Perry mentioned, but I plan on keeping up with my work as much as possible. I wouldn't want to be out of the loop for too long."
Lois's colleagues offered their encouragement and well-wishes as the meeting ended, with several asking if Lois needed any help with anything. As they filtered out of the conference room, Perry called Lois over with a serious look on his face.
"Lois, can I have a word with you?" he asked, gesturing to a nearby table.
She followed him over, a sense of unease settling in her stomach. She couldn't imagine what Perry might want to discuss with her that couldn't wait until later.
"What's on your mind, Perry?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
Perry looked at her with concern in his eyes. "I’m giving Henry the premonition. He’s more than capable I just thought it would be nice if we threw him a surprise party, and as his wife you know what he’d like.” Lois rolled her eyes in disgust, “Come on Perry, he doesn’t need a party thrown in his honor. He already feels undeserving. But if you really think it’d help him, fine. I’ll help you plan it.”
Several days later, Lois stood in the crowd of the Daily Planet, watching as Henr[y] opened the gift Perry handed him, an expensive bottle of whiskey.
“To the newest member of our family,” Perry said, raising his glass in a toast.
Henry beamed with pride as he looked around at all of his colleagues. It had always been a dream of his to work at the Daily Planet, and now here he was, with a family of his own thanks to the Dream Stone and the love of Lois Lane.
Lois watched from the sidelines, her eyes filled with pride as she watched Henry bask in the love and attention of his coworkers.