It's nice, in a strange way, to see a more vulnerable side of Lionel Luthor. It certainly makes what Adrian is doing right now a great deal easier -- he can't stand the man personally, but at least knowing he's truly an innocent victim in this situation, and is grateful for the intervention, makes the charade less galling.

And a small (perhaps not so small) part of Adrian enjoys being the one with the power, the one Lionel has to look to for help.

"This isn't the kind of neighborhood you should be in alone. Especially at night." His voice is soft, a little removed, nothing like the smug iciness displayed at Lex's party.