He's still trying to fight himself, to hide himself. And what more, he's trying to disconnect himself, his emotions. It's hard to do.

But he knows this is for the best. There's no need in lingering around, making it hurt any more for both of them. He doesn't want to hurt her anymore. He has to leave... maybe right now, even.

"I can... And I will." He forces the words out, even though he hates himself for it.

He moves closer, gently taking her face into his hands. He stares down at her for a long moment, swallowing hard again, and then lowers his lips to her forehead. A single soft, sweet kiss. His final goodbye, not at all dissimilar to the one he gave her when he asked Jor-El to take away her memories of him.

"Always remember that I..." he starts, then trails off. He shakes his head. No. He can't say that. He can't tell her that he loves her.

Instead, he clears his throat, and takes a step back, his eyes on hers again, his sorrow mirroring hers.

She can never know. He tells himself. She's better off without me in her life to ruin things.