Chapter 34 (edited)

Kara's reunion with Lois and Jimmy didn't last long. They had lunch together, but the conversation eventually waned. Everyone was busy with work, and Kara's sudden arrival left little time for extended plans.

She had called from the train on her way to Metropolis, and the news of her return caught them off guard. They agreed to set a date for a proper gathering once everyone's schedules aligned, hoping to spend a few days together in the city.

For now, Kara had other pressing matters to attend to—chiefly, finding a place to live. Commuting back to Smallville every night and returning in the morning was neither practical nor safe. Jonathan would never approve of her taking such risks, and Kara herself knew better than to tempt exposure.

After some searching, she found an apartment close to the Daily Planet and decided to rent it on the spot. The convenience outweighed any hesitation.

Though Kara wasn't short on money—thanks to some discoveries made during her travels—she still preferred to keep busy with a job. Among her findings were deposits of gold and raw diamonds. With her heat vision, she had refined some of the gold into bricks and collected a few diamonds, amassing a fortune that could easily sustain her for life.

Jonathan and Martha were stunned when Kara revealed the wealth. The diamonds alone were worth millions, and the gold could fund several generations. While they marveled at her abilities, Kara reminded them that living a life of idleness wasn't fulfilling. She wanted to contribute and find purpose beyond her powers.

At home that evening, Kara shared the good news of her successful application to the Daily Planet. She also explained her intention to move to Metropolis to be closer to work.

Martha, though proud, was reluctant to see her daughter leave again so soon. Jonathan, however, reassured her that Kara was an adult and that this was a natural step forward.

"When do you plan to move?" Jonathan asked.

"Tomorrow," Kara replied. "I'll take my things, settle in, and get the place ready before I start work. It's better to handle everything in advance."

Jonathan agreed, recognizing the wisdom in her approach. Clark, who had the next day off, offered to help. Even Martha, though hesitant, decided to assist.

"I suppose I'll help too," she sighed. "But you're really not staying long, are you?"

Kara chuckled. "Mom, I'm not running away forever. I'll visit often, and it's not like I'm getting married and leaving for good."

The family spent the evening preparing for Kara's move. Martha, ever the doting mother, fussed over the smallest details, even suggesting they bring Kara's bed to the apartment.

"Mom, if I take my bed, where will I sleep when I visit?" Kara asked, amused.

Martha reluctantly conceded.

Kara reassured her parents that she wasn't severing ties with Smallville. "This is my home, the only place where I feel grounded. I'll always come back, and I need this connection to remind me of who I am."

This comforted Jonathan and Martha, who were relieved to know she still felt rooted to them and their home.

The next day, the family sprang into action. Kara and Martha packed her essentials, while Jonathan prepared the truck. Clark, with his superhuman strength, handled the heavy lifting, enjoying the rare chance to tease his sister.

"Why am I doing all the work when you're stronger?" he joked.

"Because you're my little brother," Kara retorted with a smirk.

They stopped in town to purchase a few necessities, such as kitchenware, linens, and other household items. Kara didn't want to take everything from home, leaving the essentials for her family.

After loading the truck with everything she needed, they set off for Metropolis. The journey was smooth until Kara felt a sudden flash—a warning triggered by her super-senses.

She saw a tornado forming ahead on the road, its devastating force threatening to harm everyone in its path. Worse yet, her vision showed Jonathan in mortal danger.

Without hesitation, Kara braced herself for what was to come.