Page 12 of Pink Kryptonite, by Jeanster

CHAPTER 12: THE STRANGER IN THE SALOON

True to Mxyzptlk's word, when he sent Johnny Bart back in time he returned the Rawhide Kid to the exact moment and place from where he had plucked him. It was as if Johnny had never left his world in the first place.

Johnny eagerly rode his horse toward the town saloon where he figured his friends would be. He was right. There they were. Haus and Little Jo looked up, smiled and waved as Johnny entered the saloon. He joined them at their table.

The bartender walked over and placed a glass of milk in front of Johnny.

"You read my mind," said Johnny.

"Actually, that gentleman sitting over there in the corner sent you this glass of milk," said the bartender.

Johnny looked over and saw a stranger whose hat was angled low enough to cover his eyes.

"Someone you know?" asked Haus.

"Hard to tell from here with that hat covering part of his face," said Johnny. "If you'll both excuse me for a moment, I'll just mosey on over and thank the gentleman."

As Johnny approached the stranger seated at the table in the corner of the bar he noticed the man's physique: broad shoulders and very muscular. The man pushed the brim of his hat upward to reveal his eyes.

Wow, thought Johnny as he looked at the stranger's face. He's downright handsome.

"Howdy," said Johnny extending his hand. "Thanks for the milk. My name's Johnny Bart."

The man politely shook Johnny's hand and smiled.

"You're welcome, Johnny. You looked parched when you walked in. Thought a glass of cold milk would take care of that. My name's Kent. Clark Kent."

"Are you from around here, Clark? Or are you just passing through?"

"I'm from out of town. I might stay a while, but that depends."

"On what?"

"On whether I can find a good reason to stick around."

Clark/Superman used his super-hearing to detect Johnny's heart rate. It wasn't speeding up to indicate any lying or nervousness.

He really doesn't remember me, thought Clark. If he's faking it, he's doing a great job.

Johnny smiled. "Enjoy your stay, Clark. Well, if you'll excuse me, I don't want to keep my friends waiting."

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