chapter 9

Chapter 9: The New CEOKent Innovations – A Bold DecisionLazarus sat at the head of the conference table, his top executives gathered around. The company was expanding rapidly, and while he had the vision, he needed someone who could handle the daily operations—someone he could trust.

That's when he made his decision.

"I'm appointing a CEO," he announced. "Someone with the business acumen to lead Kent Innovations forward."

The executives exchanged glances. One of them, a senior advisor, leaned forward. "And who do you have in mind?"

Lazarus smirked. "Martha Kent."

The room went silent.

Dr. Avery cleared his throat. "Your… mother?"

Lazarus nodded. "She has a degree in business and political experience. She's handled finances, negotiations, and—most importantly—she's someone I trust completely."

One of the executives hesitated. "But she's never run a corporation of this scale."

Lazarus leaned back. "Neither had I when I started this. And yet, here we are."

No one had an argument for that.

Kent Farm – Jonathan's ConcernThat evening, Martha sat across from Lazarus at the kitchen table, stunned.

"You want me to be CEO?" she asked.

Lazarus nodded. "You're the only one I trust with this, Mom. I know you'll run the company with integrity."

Jonathan, sitting nearby, frowned. "Son, this is a huge responsibility. Martha's already got enough on her plate."

Martha was silent for a moment, then spoke carefully. "I'd be honored, Lazarus, but… are you sure about this?"

Lazarus met her gaze. "I've never been more sure of anything."

Martha smiled softly. "Then I won't let you down."

Jonathan still looked uncertain, but he sighed. "If anyone can keep you from going too far, it's your mother."

Lazarus chuckled. "That's the idea."

Smallville High – Clark's FrustrationThe next day, Clark caught up with Lazarus outside school.

"You really made Mom CEO?" Clark asked, incredulous.

Lazarus shrugged. "She's the best choice."

Clark sighed. "Laz, this company is your dream. You've built it from the ground up."

"And now I'm securing its future," Lazarus said. "Mom keeps me grounded, Clark. She won't let me become… something I don't want to be."

Clark studied him, then finally nodded. "I hope you're right."

Lazarus smirked. "I usually am."

Luthor Mansion – Lex's ReactionLex poured himself a drink, smiling as he read the news.

Martha Kent Named CEO of Kent Innovations.

When Lazarus walked in, Lex raised an eyebrow. "Your mother? Bold move."

Lazarus sat across from him. "I don't need corporate sharks running my company. I need someone I trust."

Lex swirled his glass. "Trust is valuable. But power? That's what truly matters."

Lazarus leaned forward. "Then watch as I redefine what power really means."

Lex chuckled. "I look forward to it."