I especially like the implications about Helen working with Lionel since I'm really hoping that's the case.

I agree. I think Helen's in cahoots with Lionel. It always seem to me that Lex thinks so too from the cagey way he acts with her. But maybe that's just MR coming through and his objections to this particular storyline.

You are the first in what will doubtless be an enormously long line of fan fics to reference that scene!

Wheee! I've always wanted to be first at something. *g*