Clark adjusted his tie, glancing nervously at Bruce across the table. The five-star restaurant felt too extravagant, too out of place for what was supposed to be a simple interview for the Daily Planet. But as Bruce leaned back in his chair, that easy charm in his smile, the way his eyes softened when they met Clark’s—it didn’t feel like an interview at all.

Clark fumbled through his notes, trying to stay professional. "So, about the Wayne Foundation's latest initiative..." he began, but his words faltered under Bruce’s intense gaze.