[The blow comes so suddenly and is so utterly unexpected that for once Gregor can't control his expression--he looks like Clark punched him in the stomach, color draining from his cheeks and his eyes widening in shocked denial before he stills, his face crumpling in a little until he drops his eyes and takes a deep, unsteady breath.]

No. [His voice is very quiet, and he closes his eyes for a moment, swallowing hard.] No, I didn't want anyone to know, but it was foolish to think I could keep something like that hidden forever. It was--it was for security reasons, mostly, but I-- [Gregor stops, inhales again, and his iron control reasserts itself as he draws himself up and forces his eyes back up to Clark's face.] We have every trust in your discretion, Clark. I would like it kept quiet as much as possible, for Miles and Ivan's safety as much as for mine. Thank you very much for letting me know that you're aware.