She definitely did and that push/pull dynamic would've been a lot of fun. We got a little of it in s7 but it wasn't enough.

I absolutely agree - I mean, she was created so early in the process that she was never an afterthought to begin with and as the years have gone by, it is hard to argue against the fact that her name is basically intertwined with his. Smallville (and Clark) became a lot more fun when she showed up and yes, she was!

I think you ended up being the one to indulge me by giving me the opportunity to ramble on about one of my favorite characters so I am glad you liked it! :D