Page 3 of Pink Kryptonite, by Jeanster

CHAPTER 3: DINNER WITH JIMMY

At five o'clock Superman returned to the Daily Planet to meet Jimmy.

"Where would you like to go for dinner?" asked Superman as he wondered why he never noticed before today just how cute and adorable Jimmy was.

"I thought of a few possible places, but then I realized we'd never have a real chance to talk because you'd be swarmed by your adoring public. So how about we go to my place instead of a restaurant? I'll get us a take-out pizza and meet you at my apartment."

"That'd be great," said Superman.

Jimmy entered his apartment. Then he opened the window. Seconds later Superman flew in at super-speed so that no one outside could see him.

"Make yourself at home, Superman. I'll set the table. Mmm. That pizza smells good," said Jimmy.

They dined on pizza and soda while they made small talk.

"What is it you want to discuss with me, Superman?" Jimmy finally asked.

"You might already have heard this. I broke up with Lois today."

"Wow. Well, that explains why she was so quiet in the afternoon. She left without saying a word."

"I feel badly about it, but I couldn't continue living a lie."

"A lie? Superman, what do you mean? Why did you break up with her?"

The magical imp from the fifth dimension quietly observed the two men. He used his powers to be invisible so he could be in the same room with them.

Jimmy listened patiently and without interrupting while Superman spoke.

Mr. Mxyzptlk watched Jimmy's expression while Superman unburdened himself of all he had to say. Surprise and compassion. No sign of disgust or revulsion. Wow, that boy is one classy guy and a real friend to Superman, thought the fifth dimensional imp.

Then it was Jimmy's turn to speak. Mr. Mxyzptlk listened while he watched Superman.

Afterward Superman said, "I appreciate you letting me down so gently, Jimmy. Well, good-night. Thanks for dinner." He moved toward the open window.

"Wait, Superman. You don't have to leave."

Superman looked at Jimmy. "I don't?"

The invisible imp was just as surprised as Superman.

"Of course not. You just opened yourself to me with some really heavy stuff and made yourself completely vulnerable emotionally. That takes a lot out of a person, even a super-being like yourself, I figure. Stay over tonight. I admit my apartment is small, but you're welcome to enjoy my hospitality. You can leave in the morning."

Superman smiled. "You're kind. And I can see how sincere you are."

Unbelievable, thought Mr. Mxyzptlk. Well, there's nothing going on here. I'll pop in on Superman in the morning.

The imp helped himself to the last slice of pizza before leaving Jimmy's apartment. He glanced back for just a moment to see Jimmy drifting off to sleep while lying comfortably in bed. Superman floated in the air parallel to Jimmy. The two men sleepily wished each other a good-night.

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