A/N: This takes place during the episode Resurrection. I'm not sure if the quote I begin with is exactly right. Sorry. This fic is a continuation of that scene (Chloe and LEx in his study). The way those of us who are ChLex fans would like it to have gone. . .

//It's not about your capability, it's about your safely. When my fathers involved with secret research people get hurt.//

Looking at Chloe Lex's voice and expression suddenly softened. "I just don't want you to get hurt Chloe."

"And I don't want you to get hurt again," Chloe said before she thought about it.

Lex was surprised, but pleased to hear her say that. "Thank you, Chloe. But think for a minute. My father had me committed to a mental institution and subjected me to electroshock therapy that could have left me brain dead. If he'd do that to his own son I don't even what to consider what he would do to you. You once asked me for my help and protection. Please let me keep you safe."

Not sure what to make of what Lex had said she retreated to her usual shield of sarcasm and cynicism. "Careful, Lex. Someone might think you cared about me."

"And is that so hard to believe?" Chloe remained silent so he continued. "I'm not in the habit of inviting people I don't care about to live in my home. Nor do I offer people I don't care about my protection. My money, yes, my protection, no."

Falling silent, he thought about what it had been like having Chloe in the Mansion. She brought a warmth and life to it that had been missing. He'd enjoyed getting to spend more time with her. Every night he dreamed of her, and every morning he took a very long, very cold shower.

Chloe also thought about her time in the Mansion. She loved it, and the time with Lex. She know understood why Clark was such good friends with him. And she felt safe in the Mansion. Not because of all the security, but because of Lex. She'd learned to trust him, and lost her heart to him. Finally she found her voice. "Are you saying you do care about me?"

In answer Lex walked over and kissed her. He kept it light, still not sure of her feelings and not wanting to push her. Without his conscious thought his hands came to rest on her waist. He didn't think he'd ever felt anything softer than her lips.

Chloe returned the kiss and raise her hands to his shoulders, wanting the support since she felt herself beginning to melt.

Lex pulled back from the kiss, but wrapped his arms more securely around her waist. Chloe leaned into him and rested her head against his shoulder. She somehow wasn't surprised by the toned muscle she felt. Despite being slender Lex was strong. In his arms she felt secure, and even cherished. Lex felt how perfectly her body fit to his, as if she'd been made for him.

They stayed holding each other for a few minutes. Then Lex moved slightly away and met Chloe's eyes. "Please let me handle this. I promise I'll tell you what I learn." Since he'd always admired her intelligence he decided to add an appeal to logic, as well as emotion. "My name will get me into the building without questions. It's easier, and safer, than you sneaking in."

Seeing his point she reluctantly agreed. "Alright. But be careful."

Lex placed a kiss on Chloe's cheek then left the room.

Only once he was gone did she realize he'd avoided promising to be careful. Lex Luthor doesn't do careful, she thought and gave a small shake of her head.

Sinking into a chair she thought about the kiss and what he's said. He'd admitted he cared about her, but hadn't said in what way he cared about her. Then she smiled thinking that the kiss pretty much answered that question. She wasn't sure what would happen between them, but decided she would have to be patient and see where things led.

As he drove to the lab Lex thought of Chloe. He'd enjoyed kissing her as he never had any other woman. And her trusting him meant more to him that he wanted to admit. Since she was still in high school they have to take things VERY slowly, but that was fine with him. He knew she was worth the wait.

A/N: I planned this as a one parted and currently have no plans to continue it.