A/N: Here is Chap 5. It's a little long but once I got going I just couldn't stop! Charles probably seems a little whiny but these are his deepest feeling we're dealing with here, things he normally doesn't discuss with anyone. We all have them. Anywho... Enjoy... Let me know what you thought.
Tranquillity Chapter Five: Greatest of Sorrows and the Greatest of Joys
Frowning she stood before her closet, body still dripping from her morning shower, and scanned it's contents; one dress, a ripped one at that, and a pair of shoes. Tranquillity sighed and knew that the dresser was in the same state. Jubilee and Jean had both been kind enough to offer her use of their wardrobe but Jean's outfits were to small and Jubilee's too wild. It was definitely time to go shopping. Donning her one dress she hurried to be on time for breakfast. It had only been a month since she had come to live at the mansion but Tranquillity knew she wouldn't leave. This place was her home now, finally a place she knew she would be safe and could freely use her mutation to benefit those around her. Bit by bit she was coming to know those around her, the children especially since she had been asked to work alongside of Scott in taking care of them. She enjoyed it and she was good at it, so much so that Scott had taken to assisting her instead of vise versa, and it freed up his time to get back to his true love, the garage.
As it was Saturday most of the younger children were already finished with their breakfast and had begun their weekly banquet of morning cartoons and the older ones were still sound asleep in bed. The only people at the table were the adults. Setting her plate down on the table Tranquillity remembered that she had forgotten her tea and went back into the kitchen to retrieve it. Steaming mug in hand she carefully re-entered the dining room and was plowed into by Janet, one of the littler children, as she ran into the dining room. With a gasp the mug was tossed from her hands and thrown up into the air from the force of the collision. Pulling Janet to her, in expectation of the hot liquid coming back down, Tranquillity was surprised when it did not. Looking up she saw the mug suspended in mid air just above her head. With a small laugh she plucked it from it's suspension and settled the mug back into her hands. Janet apologized and ran off as Tranquillity took her seat.
"Neat little trick," she said. "Thank you."
Jean smiled. "You're welcome. That was a close call."
"Well at least I know what Mondays lesson will be... No Running in the Halls!"
The small group laughed and breakfast resumed. Taking the first bite of her eggs Tranquillity wondered how she was going to get the money from her account to go shopping with. Her personal belongings were still in her old town and she was sure that by now they would be gone if not destroyed all together. Her accounts were still open, she'd been keeping an eye on them via the Internet, but she had no way to get to a bank. No, the money wasn't the problem; it was getting to the money that was the problem.
"Tranquillity, Jean and I were going to go shopping this afternoon and were wondering if you'd like to join us? You haven't stepped foot off the property since you got here."
"If I didn't know better I'd swear you were reading my mind. I was just thinking about getting some new clothes. But I need to access my accounts and I don't have a bank in the area."
"Which bank do you use?"
"The National Bank of Commerce."
"Oh, well there isn't one of those in the area but I'm sure the Professor wouldn't mind lending you one of the credit cards for the day."
"Of course not. Jean you know where they are kept, before you leave be sure to have Tranquillity's name put on the records and the card will become hers. Come Monday we'll speak with my accountant and we'll have your money transferred to a local bank."
"Thank you but that's really not necessary. I can wait."
"Don't be silly!" Jena interrupted. "I know you're getting sick of wearing that dress, I can see it in your eyes. Come with us and we'll show you the best places to shop!"
"Did I hear my favorite word?" All eyes turned to see Jubilee standing in the doorway. "Did someone shay 'shop'?" Jean nodded with a small sigh. "Kitty! Hey Kitty come'ere! We're going shopping today!!"
From the hallway a squeal could be heard and the other young college student joined Jubilee in the doorway. "Which mall?"
Tranquillity could sense the woe coming from both Jean and Ororo and struggled to keep a smile from her face. Evidently shopping with the two younger women was not what they had in mind.
"Actually I was hoping to avoid the malls today. Just a simple store will do fine."
The hope of 'malling' gone, Kitty and Jubilee quickly lost interest in going and returned from whence they had come while Ororo and Jean brightened up once more. A small chuckle escaped from her mouth but Tranquillity silenced it with another bite of eggs. Charles saw the laughter in her eyes and knew she had done that on purpose. Chuckling to himself he finished his meal and made the announcement he'd been waiting until they were all there to make.
"I have been given a set of four tickets to the opera for next week, Friday. Would anyone like to join me?"
Remy groaned when he saw Ororo's eyes light up. "Oh no, mes ami! Remy don't set no foot in an opera house. He'd rather sleep here, in de soft bed."
Laughing she turned down the offer and Scott spoke up for his wife. "I know Jean would love to go. We'll join you."
The professor nodded and looked around the table for anyone else who wanted to go. Wolverine and Rogue declined leaving Tranquillity. "Would you care to join us, Tranquillity?"
Shrugging her shoulder shyly she shook her head. "I... I don't know what 'opera' is. I've never heard of it."
Her words met with disbelieving stares from everyone. "You've never heard of opera!?" Rogue declared with a southern disbelief.
Tranquillity shook her head. "No, never."
"Boy," Scott declared. "You really do come from a small town."
Tsk-ing at him Jean smacked his leg lightly. "You'd like it Tranquillity, it's right up your alley. It's music. An opera tells a story with music and singing."
"Music?" she repeated. Several people nodded their heads. "Then yes, please, I'd love to go."
"Good then it's settled. This coming Friday we'll leave a little before six for Toronto."
With that settled the group split their ways, Jean and Ororo taking Tranquillity by then hands and, after a few stops around the mansion to gather purses and credit cards, they were on their way to spend the day shopping. It was a short car ride to the store but as they walked up to the door Tranquillity held back.
"What is it? What's wrong?" Ororo asked.
"How do I explain my eyes?"
"Hmm..." Jean thought for a moment. "Here! Why don't you wear my sunglasses? We'll say they're prescription if anyone asks."
Problem solved they entered the store and Tranquillity stared all around her at the clothing and accessories on display. Never before had she felt like such a small town hick. Three stories high filled with everything and anything a person could ever need to buy. With a woman on each side of her Tranquillity was propelled into the ladies department. After almost two hours she had all the clothes she needed and some she didn't even think of.
"I cannot get all of these! This is too much!" she protested.
"Nonsense, the Professor told us to get you anything you needed as you can't go back to your house, and that's just what we're gonna do. Now, we have all the clothes. Let's see what we can do about Beauty Products."
Leaving their bags with the front desk to be held until they were done Jean and Ororo steered their new friend over to the cosmetic counter. "Now... what color do you usually wear?"
"I don't. I've never liked wearing makeup."
Staring at row after row of lipstick, lip liner, eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, and many other things she'd never heard of before Tranquillity missed the look the two women shared. Immediately the makeover began. While Ororo concentrated on her eyes and eyebrows Jean focused in on her lips and cheeks.
"There!" they cried when they had finished.
Making sure no one was looking she slipped off the glasses and stared at herself in the mirror. She liked the way her mouth looked but when she saw her eyes, "I look like a raccoon!!" she cried.
"Don't be silly! You're just not used to wearing make up. We'll have to do this again for the opera on Friday. Oh! We need to get you a dress for that too!"
Once more Tranquillity was in the dressing rooms trying on dresses. Modeling each one for the two women she didn't really care for any of them. While they went off in search of another gown for her to try on Tranquillity looked around on her own. One in particular caught her eyes. Going over to the stand it stood on she fingered the peach colored material. It was as soft as velvet but lighter than silk. The long, fitted, sleeves were trimmed in satin at the wide cuffs that began to flare out at the elbows. The neckline scooped low and was also trimmed in satin.
Taking it from its stand she disappeared into the changing room to try it on. Standing before the mirror she knew that this was the one. The empire waist topped off a long skirt that clung to her just enough before it swirled down around her ankles. It was perfect. Taking it off she re dressed in her clothes and took the dress to the register to pay for it. By the time Jean and Ororo had returned with yet another selection the dress was boxed and carried off to be put with their other bags.
"I've found one that I like, thank you."
Surprised and curious they asked about it but she smiled and said they would have to wait. Though they whined in good fun and teasing the two women left it alone, pushing their curiosity aside until Friday.
"Now... we have clothes, makeup, and all the hair essentials. What else is there?"
"Shoes and bedroom accessories," Jean answered. "No offense but your bedroom is even more spartan than Wolverine's!"
Tranquillity laughed at that, for she knew it was true. She did wish to make it a little homier, to get rid of that guest room feel. After suffering through an hour of shoe shopping she was finally able to get to the department she wanted to shop in. Her eyes roamed over the many displays picking and choosing the ones she liked until she knew her room was complete. Their shopping mission a success the three women headed for home after stopping for a quick bite at a small diner.
Jean had quickly enlisted the help of the young men to help carry everything inside and Tranquillity was left to put everything away. Hanging up her clothes and putting her health and beauty products in their proper places she set about decorating her room. On the dresser she placed a small picture frame that would soon hold a picture of the children. Candles soon surrounded the photo and a vase filled with fresh flowers the children had picked for her. Next to an oversized reading chair, upon which she tossed an afghan, sat the small table that supported her lamp, which was graced with an incense holder, the incense placed in the drawer underneath it. A few throw pillows were placed on the bed and a stool was sat in front of the vanity. Standing back Tranquillity smiled, 'Now it's my room,' she thought to herself.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The weekend had come and gone for Charles all too quickly and it was Monday once more. His science class was over and he had some time before the next one so he decided to go for a short stroll outside, some fresh air to clear his head and lighten his mind. Rolling to a stop on the large stone patio he took a deep breath and released it with a sigh. It was times like this he wished he could walk among the trees, hidden among them, taking in the splendor of nature. But that was impossible so he tried to focus on something else. It didn't take long until his attention was diverted by the sound of laughter coming from the lawn just beyond the stone wall. Going further he looked out to see the children running around in circles, each one dodging away from the one who was blindfolded. Smiling he watched them as Simon, the tagger, caught someone and the blindfold was given to his catch. Watching the new 'it' child run after the others Charles could tell the young one was cheating. The blindfold was up just far enough to give a limited view of the world. He wasn't the only one to see it.
"Hey! No fair! Jimm's cheating! Tranquillity he's cheating!" several of the children cried as they stopped running.
"Nuh-hunh!" Jimm cried out in his defense.
Moving from her seat on the bench Tranquillity crossed over to where Jimm was standing, now with the blindfold in his hands.
"I wasn't cheating Tranquillity! It just didn't tie right!"
"All right, let me tie it so it fits right." Taking the blindfold in her hands she tied it around his head and turned him to face the children. "Can you see anything?"
"No."
"Okay then, why don't you start again?"
With a cry to raise the dead he was off, running to try and catch one of his classmates. Chuckling at his enthusiasm Tranquillity moved to return to her seat when she saw Xavier sitting on the patio. Smiling at him she made her way over to say hello. He watched her approach and noticed that she was wearing a different dress. 'Must have been from the shopping trip,' he thought. A long sundress, it reached almost to her ankles hiding her bare feet as they slipped noiselessly over the grass.
"Good afternoon," she said as she reached the wall. Propping her arms on it she placed her chin on her crossed wrists and smiled again at him. "What brings you out here?"
"Fresh air and a lull between classes," he replied. "Do you mind?"
"Never, Charles, you know that. The children love it when you stop by. And it's nice to have an adult to talk to. Someone who knows how to use big, adult words."
Charles laughed. "I see. What happened to Scott? I thought you two were working together."
"Oh he was here earlier, but he had a mechanics class to teach and he needed to prepare," Tranquillity explained. "Besides, I know the children can get under his skin on such a beautiful day like this. He needed a break."
"And you? When do you get your break?"
"About nine o'clock tonight," she laughed. "Until then..." she shrugged. "But that's okay by me. I enjoy them."
They lapsed into a companionable silence as they watched the children playing on the field. Though her eyes were on the children Tranquillity could sense the wistfulness coming from the man who was with her. She felt how much he wished he could be out there running around with them and how he missed being able to move on his own. Without saying a word she took his hand in hers and showed him the gift she had been given. Skin to skin she connected with his heart and pushed the feeling of self pity and sadness away, pulling forth the happiness that she knew was there as well.
As he sat there watching the children Xavier slowly felt his sadness at his immobility slipping away as happiness was brought to the fore. It made him think of the night, a few months ago, when one of the children had climbed up his chair to sit in his lap one night while they were watching the snowfall through the window. The young girl had laid her head on his shoulder and eventually fallen asleep, the sound of her breathing slowing until he knew she was asleep. Moving carefully so as not to wake her Charles had rolled his way to her room and deposited her in her bed, tucking in the covers tightly before whispering goodnight and closing the door.
Slowly his mind came back to the present and he felt a peaceful joy spreading itself over his heart. He was surprised by the realization that Tranquillity had placed her hand over his, realizing it only when she took it away. Silently he realized what she had done, that it was Tranquillity who had called forth the joy from within his heart. With that simple act he could fully understand the power, the gift she had been given.
"Thank you," he said quietly.
"You're welcome," she replied with a soft smile, her eyes beginning to turn white once more after changing to blue while she had held his hand.
The bell rang in the distance and he knew he had to get inside for the next class. With a small goodbye she turned to gather the children for their next activity and walked away from him. Watching her leave Charles turned to head back inside. As he crossed the doorway Tranquillity's voice rang out in his head.
~ Sometimes, Charles, that which brings us the greatest sorrow can also bring us the greatest joy. ~
For a brief moment her mind opened up to him and he saw what she had the day she had run into the forest. He watched as she had emerged from her house only to see her friend fall to the ground, his own blood pooling under him from the multiple bullet holes in his back and chest. She had picked him up cradling the man in her arms, rocking him as he uttered his last breath in a thank you for all she had done for him. Charles could feel her heart breaking in two as he died, the people she had thought to be her friends had killed the man she'd loved as a brother.
He shuddered at the fear that had coursed through her when the mob turned on her, and the relief when he had seen her boss, her friend, emerge from his car and make his way to her. The hurt boiled up when he turned on her, igniting the crowd into a frenzy and the fear returned as she ran through the forest. But suddenly it was gone and he felt the relief when Tranquillity realized she was safe and the joy she felt when she dealt with the children or spoke with her new friends at the mansion.
As suddenly as it came to him it was gone, leaving him breathless from the expanse of emotion he'd felt. ~ To feel the extremes of emotion is to have lived a life to its fullest extent. ~ she quoted. ~ Without the loss of my 'brother' I would never have known the joy you have shared with me here in your home. ~
Deep in thought Xavier rolled into his office, her words still ringing in his head. As the older children began their test he wondered at the truth of what she had said. Without his gift of telepathy, and the curse of immobility that came along with it, he would never have founded this school and never have met all those who had brought him the happiness that filled his heart. It's true he wouldn't have known the pain of losing those that he had, but he also would never have known their friendship.
'Yes,' he thought to himself. 'Sometimes, that which brings us the greatest sorrow can also bring us the greatest joy.'
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Having finished the small mound of paperwork that had been on his desk Charles was making his way down the hall to retire early when he heard loud music coming from the main rec. room. Stopping in the doorway his eyes opened wide in surprise. There, among the teens and older children of the mansion, amidst their loud 'alternative' music was Tranquillity. She was dancing and laughing with them as though she was one of their peers. Her hair pulled back into a long braid, bracelet sized earrings in her ears, a t-shirt, and cut off jean shorts she looked young enough to be in the older region of their age bracket.
Stopping on that thought he wondered... just how old was Tranquillity? There were times, like now, when she seemed young, but he had also seen her at other times looking older, more serious and time worn. Leaving the group to their fun he couldn't help but wonder how she was going to react to the opera if she enjoyed the music of the younger generations. Once more Xavier fell asleep with questions burning his mind about the latest addition to the mansion faculty.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The week had seemed to fly by for the Professor and before he knew it it was already Friday. Classes ended early for the quartet that was to enjoy the opera so that they could ready to leave so as to make it there on time. Scott was pacing the hallway when Xavier emerged from his room.
"Scott? What's wrong?"
"Nothing, it's just... if they don't hurry we'll be late."
"Not necessarily. We still have a few moments. They're probably just finishing up some of the smaller details."
With a sigh Scott tried to relax but truth be told he was nervous about more than the time. This was the first time since they'd been married that he and Jean had 'gone out' as a couple. Sure they'd had time alone but never out in public. Why he was so nervous was beyond him but he was. He felt as though it was the first date and Scott had a bad feeling he was going to screw something up.
Chuckling at the young man Charles kept his amusement to himself and watched him pace back and forth in the hallway only to stop dead and straighten his back with undivided interest. Looking up to see what had made him stop he saw the door open and Jean emerge from Tranquillity's room in a short black dress, hugging a shawl around her bare shoulders.
"We're ready."
As she emerged from her room Charles felt his breath hitch in his throat at the sight of Tranquillity. She looked beautiful! Her dress hugged in all the right spots and her makeup was expertly done, but it was her hair that held his attention. It was pulled up somehow and the small bun that held it in place was overflowing with ringlets that cascaded down her back and over her shoulders. Tiny little flower shaped silver clips dotted her hair in both the ringlets and the bun; they shimmered when the light caught them.
With a mental slap he pulled himself from his reverie and smiled at the two women who were approaching. "Shall we go then?" The ride to the opera house was short, the small travel plane getting them there in record time, and it wasn't long until the lights dimmed and the curtain went up. Sitting in their private box, the two women in the front and the men in the back, they had a fantastic view of the stage and actors in all their glory. The performance was excellent and all too quickly it came time for the intermission. Scott and Jean left to get some wine and Xavier turned his attention to Tranquillity who was still staring at the stage. Peering around her shoulder he was shocked to see tears glistening on her cheeks, as her eyes were a pale orange in color.
She felt a warm hand on her shoulder and turned to see Charles staring at her in concern. Smiling back at him she shook her head.
"I'm fine. It was just so... I never expected anything like that. It was so beautiful!"
His concern melted away into a smile as he realized she had been moved by the music. "La Caviatta is a powerful opera. This is the sixth time I've seen it and it still moves me. To be honest I wasn't sure if you would enjoy it or not. I know you like the music of the younger generation. Opera is so very different from it."
Tranquillity drew her brow in confusion. "I don't understand. Why did you think I wouldn't like it?" Choosing his words carefully he let her know that he had seen her dancing with the students a few nights ago. She seemed to be truly enjoying herself. Tranquillity smiled at him. "I did enjoy spending some time with them, yes, but their music is so...loud. You can't even understand what they're saying. But the more I was in the room the more I felt their joy and excitement and I got swept up in it. This music though, the opera, it's so different. It's filled with emotion and the melody is so very beautiful, it almost took my breath away."
He could read her eyes as easily as she could others and knew how much the music had affected her but before he could say anything further their partners returned.
"Tranquillity? What's wrong? Why are you crying?" Jean asked as she took her seat.
For the first time she realized there were tears on her cheeks and swiped them away with a dab of her handkerchief. Laughing at herself she took the offered glass but didn't drink. She had never cared for alcohol, in the limited exposure she had had to it, and didn't intend to start now. As the performance began once more she was swept away once more into the music and story and the second half ended much too soon. Waiting for the majority of the crowd to disperse the quartet chatted amongst themselves and it was decided that they would stop off for a cup of coffee before heading home.
Seated in the dark restaurant they were served and were enjoying a quiet conversation when the music began to play. Scott rose and escorted his wife onto the dance floor. Watching them Tranquillity could see, and feel, the love emanating from the couple.
"How long have they been married?" she asked.
"A little over two years now. It took then three times as long to finally wise up and realize how right they were for each other." The duo chuckled.
In the dark room she knew that it would be difficult to see her eyes but Tranquillity kept her head down all the same, focusing on the table or her coffee. "Are you ashamed of it?" he asked as he watched her keep her eyes hidden.
"Ashamed?" she repeated. "No, not ashamed. Just tired of all the questions it raises. While I was on my own I had to pretend to be blind just so that people would stop gawking and asking questions. I took to wearing a pair of dark sunglasses. I guess I've gotten so used to hiding my eyes that its become a second nature to me."
Before Charles could respond a man approached their table, his eyes raking over Tranquillity. "'Scuse me, ma'am, would you like to dance?" he said, his tone making it more of a command than a request.
"No thank you," she replied without hesitation. "I'm busy at the moment."
"That's funny, you don't look busy," he said as he laid an iron like hand around her arm, pulling her up from her chair.
"No! I said no!" she fought him, trying to release her arm from his painful grasp. She could smell the stench of alcohol on his breath. "Please! You're hurting me!"
"Let her go," Charles demanded, his tone hard and his eyes threatening. "The lady said she doesn't want to dance."
"Well she's standing here with me isn't she? What you gonna do about it wheels?" the man chuckled at his pathetic joke.
Reaching out with his mind Charles repeated his command one more time, this time controlling the stranger's mind to do as he was ordered. As he let go of Tranquillity Jean, who had been alerted by Xavier, put her arm around her and began to move toward the door. Scott paid the bill and he joined the Professor in leaving the restaurant. Emerging onto the street he released his hold on the mans mind, planted a message to go home for the night and turned his attention to Tranquillity. She was standing on her own and seemed okay but he could see that her hands were still shaking.
"Let's go home."
It was a short walk to the plane and a quiet flight home as each one was lost in their own thoughts. Tranquillity had calmed down and, though she could feel the bruise forming on her arm, knew she was okay. She also knew how guilty her three companions felt about what had happened. As they stood in the hallway of the mansion she faced them.
"Thank you for such a wonderful evening. Now that I know what the opera is I doubt I'll be able to stay away from it for long," she smiled. "Please... please try to forget what happened. It was a stupid mistake on his part and is better forgotten than remembered. It was no ones fault." Giving their friend a small smile Jean and Scott moved off to get some sleep leaving Tranquillity and Charles to face each other alone. "I did have a wonderful evening."
Forcing his emotions down deep where she couldn't feel them he smiled at her and said he was glad. "Goodnight, Tranquillity."
She watched him head toward his office and frowned at his back. Though he had pushed them down deep she could still feel his anger, his guilt, and his shame at what had happened. Sighing, she knew better than to try and speak with him now. Climbing the stairs Tranquillity walked down the hallway into her room and shut the door behind her. Even as she changed she could hear his emotions as if he were right there besides her, speaking them aloud. Donning her pajama pant and shirt she tried to curl up in bed and sleep but found she could not shut off the emotions from Charles that were streaming through her heart. Tossing the covers aside she pulled on a robe and left her room to go find him.
Concentrating on where the emotions were coming from she knew he was still in his office, even though over two hours had passed since they had gotten home. Padding her way to the closed door she knocked lightly and opened the door. A few steps in she paused and shut the door behind her before curling herself up in the corner of his couch. Silently she watched him as he sat behind his desk, his jacket tossed over a chair in the corner, his black vest standing out against the crisp white shirt with it's top button undone and cuffs rolled up a time or two. Staring at each other the silence lasted a few more moments until Tranquillity finally spoke her mind.
"Stop it," she ordered in the tone she used on a naughty child, soft but firm, leaving no room for argument. "Stop beating yourself up over what happened. There was nothing you could have done to stop what he did. It could have been either Jean or I and he just happened to get me." Anticipating his thought she kept going. "And you did help me. I know you did your telepathy thing to make him let go of me and it was a good thing you did because I am no where near strong enough to break a grasp like that one." Pausing for a moment she wiated until he met her stare once more. "He didn't hurt me." She saw the look cross his face and knew she'd been caught. "All right. He did, but not a lot, it's only a bruise. In a few days time it will disappear and will be but a distant memory."
Silence reigned once more as he took in the words she had spoken. He knew they were true but it didn't help him from feeling responsible for what had happened.
"All right."
"All right, what?" she asked.
"All right I'll stop."
She watched him for a moment before her white eyes began to change; they began to turn a light shade of gray as her eyes narrowed. "You're lying," she accused him. "You're saying what you think I want to hear."
Charles slumped back in his chair, knowing she wouldn't give up till he admitted it. "Is that what you want to hear? That I feel responsible for what happened tonight? That you were hurt because I couldn't stand up and defend my own friend?"
Tranquillity sighed. "Why do you do that Charles? Why do you bring everything back to the fact that you're in a wheelchair? That is not who you are."
Sensing his disbelief and self-pity she threw her hands up in the air in frustation. Getting up from her place on the couch she began to pace the room stopping every now and then to look him in the eyes to make her point.
"Tell me, what would... what's his name... Eric, what would Eric think if he saw you now? Sitting her, in your office, pitying yourself. You're stronger than that, Charles. But you take something like tonight and you put all the blame on yourself, whether you deserve it or not. You think that because you are in charge everything falls on your shoulders. And if something fails then it's because you're in a wheelchair. Well guess what! You are not responsible for the actions of a perfect stranger. You had no control over what happened tonight. If you hadn't done what you did I would have been dragged out to that dance floor against my will and who knows what would have happened then. You prevented that, no one else."
Stopping her pacing Tranquillity moved to sit on his desk, facing him. "There is not a single person in this mansion who does not owe you their life, Charles Xavier. Where would these people be if you hadn't come into their lives? Marie would be dead from Eric's little invention; Remy would still be on the streets fighting; Logan would still be on the road never knowing the limited knowledge you helped him find at Alkali Lake; Richard would be living with an abusive father; Scott and Jean would never have met... you have saved so many lives... all the while doing it from the confines of your wheelchair."
Hooking a finger under his chin she raised his eyes to meet hers. "And what about me? Without you... I'd have died in that river, never knowing the beauty of something as simple as opera. You saved my life, but more importantly you saved my spirit. In the first week I was here you showed me that there are decent people who care enough to make this world a better place, people who could be trusted. All my life all I've known were people who hated the very thing that I was, a mutant. But here I've learned that I do have a place in this world, that there is a place where I can make a difference by using the power, the gift, that I was given. You were the one who did that... You, Charles."
Taking a deep breath he took her hand in his own and kept his gaze locked with hers. "Thank you," he said, his simple words telling her everything she needed to know.
Her hand tingled inside of his and she glanced down at them, joined atop the desk, fingers laced through one another, her dainty ones almost swallowed by his own large ones. His thumb had, unconsciously, been rubbing back and forth against the palm of her hand making small circles on her skin. Shyly she glanced back up at him and smiled.
"I'd better get some sleep. The children have a special outing tomorrow that I promised I'd go along on," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Goodnight, Charles."
"Goodnight."
But neither of them moved. Staring at the other, each one was at a loss for thought or movement, not wanting to break whatever it was that was happening. Suddenly the grandfather clock struck three times, three am, and their spell was broken. Moving away to the safety of the doorway she looked back at him, still sitting behind his desk. Staring for a moment longer she turned and ran for her room, scared that if she didn't she'd never make it there. Tossing her robe to the floor she climbed into bed and forced herself to go to sleep.
As Charles made his final round for the night, almost an hour later, he stopped outside her door, his hand tingling from her touch, and heard the light melody that drifted out from within. After only a few verses, he recognized it as the main love song from La Caviatta. Smiling to himself he rolled down to his own room, knowing that sleep would still be a long while coming.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
End Chap 5
I'm working on Chap 6... I swear it!
Tranquillity Chapter Five: Greatest of Sorrows and the Greatest of Joys
Frowning she stood before her closet, body still dripping from her morning shower, and scanned it's contents; one dress, a ripped one at that, and a pair of shoes. Tranquillity sighed and knew that the dresser was in the same state. Jubilee and Jean had both been kind enough to offer her use of their wardrobe but Jean's outfits were to small and Jubilee's too wild. It was definitely time to go shopping. Donning her one dress she hurried to be on time for breakfast. It had only been a month since she had come to live at the mansion but Tranquillity knew she wouldn't leave. This place was her home now, finally a place she knew she would be safe and could freely use her mutation to benefit those around her. Bit by bit she was coming to know those around her, the children especially since she had been asked to work alongside of Scott in taking care of them. She enjoyed it and she was good at it, so much so that Scott had taken to assisting her instead of vise versa, and it freed up his time to get back to his true love, the garage.
As it was Saturday most of the younger children were already finished with their breakfast and had begun their weekly banquet of morning cartoons and the older ones were still sound asleep in bed. The only people at the table were the adults. Setting her plate down on the table Tranquillity remembered that she had forgotten her tea and went back into the kitchen to retrieve it. Steaming mug in hand she carefully re-entered the dining room and was plowed into by Janet, one of the littler children, as she ran into the dining room. With a gasp the mug was tossed from her hands and thrown up into the air from the force of the collision. Pulling Janet to her, in expectation of the hot liquid coming back down, Tranquillity was surprised when it did not. Looking up she saw the mug suspended in mid air just above her head. With a small laugh she plucked it from it's suspension and settled the mug back into her hands. Janet apologized and ran off as Tranquillity took her seat.
"Neat little trick," she said. "Thank you."
Jean smiled. "You're welcome. That was a close call."
"Well at least I know what Mondays lesson will be... No Running in the Halls!"
The small group laughed and breakfast resumed. Taking the first bite of her eggs Tranquillity wondered how she was going to get the money from her account to go shopping with. Her personal belongings were still in her old town and she was sure that by now they would be gone if not destroyed all together. Her accounts were still open, she'd been keeping an eye on them via the Internet, but she had no way to get to a bank. No, the money wasn't the problem; it was getting to the money that was the problem.
"Tranquillity, Jean and I were going to go shopping this afternoon and were wondering if you'd like to join us? You haven't stepped foot off the property since you got here."
"If I didn't know better I'd swear you were reading my mind. I was just thinking about getting some new clothes. But I need to access my accounts and I don't have a bank in the area."
"Which bank do you use?"
"The National Bank of Commerce."
"Oh, well there isn't one of those in the area but I'm sure the Professor wouldn't mind lending you one of the credit cards for the day."
"Of course not. Jean you know where they are kept, before you leave be sure to have Tranquillity's name put on the records and the card will become hers. Come Monday we'll speak with my accountant and we'll have your money transferred to a local bank."
"Thank you but that's really not necessary. I can wait."
"Don't be silly!" Jena interrupted. "I know you're getting sick of wearing that dress, I can see it in your eyes. Come with us and we'll show you the best places to shop!"
"Did I hear my favorite word?" All eyes turned to see Jubilee standing in the doorway. "Did someone shay 'shop'?" Jean nodded with a small sigh. "Kitty! Hey Kitty come'ere! We're going shopping today!!"
From the hallway a squeal could be heard and the other young college student joined Jubilee in the doorway. "Which mall?"
Tranquillity could sense the woe coming from both Jean and Ororo and struggled to keep a smile from her face. Evidently shopping with the two younger women was not what they had in mind.
"Actually I was hoping to avoid the malls today. Just a simple store will do fine."
The hope of 'malling' gone, Kitty and Jubilee quickly lost interest in going and returned from whence they had come while Ororo and Jean brightened up once more. A small chuckle escaped from her mouth but Tranquillity silenced it with another bite of eggs. Charles saw the laughter in her eyes and knew she had done that on purpose. Chuckling to himself he finished his meal and made the announcement he'd been waiting until they were all there to make.
"I have been given a set of four tickets to the opera for next week, Friday. Would anyone like to join me?"
Remy groaned when he saw Ororo's eyes light up. "Oh no, mes ami! Remy don't set no foot in an opera house. He'd rather sleep here, in de soft bed."
Laughing she turned down the offer and Scott spoke up for his wife. "I know Jean would love to go. We'll join you."
The professor nodded and looked around the table for anyone else who wanted to go. Wolverine and Rogue declined leaving Tranquillity. "Would you care to join us, Tranquillity?"
Shrugging her shoulder shyly she shook her head. "I... I don't know what 'opera' is. I've never heard of it."
Her words met with disbelieving stares from everyone. "You've never heard of opera!?" Rogue declared with a southern disbelief.
Tranquillity shook her head. "No, never."
"Boy," Scott declared. "You really do come from a small town."
Tsk-ing at him Jean smacked his leg lightly. "You'd like it Tranquillity, it's right up your alley. It's music. An opera tells a story with music and singing."
"Music?" she repeated. Several people nodded their heads. "Then yes, please, I'd love to go."
"Good then it's settled. This coming Friday we'll leave a little before six for Toronto."
With that settled the group split their ways, Jean and Ororo taking Tranquillity by then hands and, after a few stops around the mansion to gather purses and credit cards, they were on their way to spend the day shopping. It was a short car ride to the store but as they walked up to the door Tranquillity held back.
"What is it? What's wrong?" Ororo asked.
"How do I explain my eyes?"
"Hmm..." Jean thought for a moment. "Here! Why don't you wear my sunglasses? We'll say they're prescription if anyone asks."
Problem solved they entered the store and Tranquillity stared all around her at the clothing and accessories on display. Never before had she felt like such a small town hick. Three stories high filled with everything and anything a person could ever need to buy. With a woman on each side of her Tranquillity was propelled into the ladies department. After almost two hours she had all the clothes she needed and some she didn't even think of.
"I cannot get all of these! This is too much!" she protested.
"Nonsense, the Professor told us to get you anything you needed as you can't go back to your house, and that's just what we're gonna do. Now, we have all the clothes. Let's see what we can do about Beauty Products."
Leaving their bags with the front desk to be held until they were done Jean and Ororo steered their new friend over to the cosmetic counter. "Now... what color do you usually wear?"
"I don't. I've never liked wearing makeup."
Staring at row after row of lipstick, lip liner, eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, and many other things she'd never heard of before Tranquillity missed the look the two women shared. Immediately the makeover began. While Ororo concentrated on her eyes and eyebrows Jean focused in on her lips and cheeks.
"There!" they cried when they had finished.
Making sure no one was looking she slipped off the glasses and stared at herself in the mirror. She liked the way her mouth looked but when she saw her eyes, "I look like a raccoon!!" she cried.
"Don't be silly! You're just not used to wearing make up. We'll have to do this again for the opera on Friday. Oh! We need to get you a dress for that too!"
Once more Tranquillity was in the dressing rooms trying on dresses. Modeling each one for the two women she didn't really care for any of them. While they went off in search of another gown for her to try on Tranquillity looked around on her own. One in particular caught her eyes. Going over to the stand it stood on she fingered the peach colored material. It was as soft as velvet but lighter than silk. The long, fitted, sleeves were trimmed in satin at the wide cuffs that began to flare out at the elbows. The neckline scooped low and was also trimmed in satin.
Taking it from its stand she disappeared into the changing room to try it on. Standing before the mirror she knew that this was the one. The empire waist topped off a long skirt that clung to her just enough before it swirled down around her ankles. It was perfect. Taking it off she re dressed in her clothes and took the dress to the register to pay for it. By the time Jean and Ororo had returned with yet another selection the dress was boxed and carried off to be put with their other bags.
"I've found one that I like, thank you."
Surprised and curious they asked about it but she smiled and said they would have to wait. Though they whined in good fun and teasing the two women left it alone, pushing their curiosity aside until Friday.
"Now... we have clothes, makeup, and all the hair essentials. What else is there?"
"Shoes and bedroom accessories," Jean answered. "No offense but your bedroom is even more spartan than Wolverine's!"
Tranquillity laughed at that, for she knew it was true. She did wish to make it a little homier, to get rid of that guest room feel. After suffering through an hour of shoe shopping she was finally able to get to the department she wanted to shop in. Her eyes roamed over the many displays picking and choosing the ones she liked until she knew her room was complete. Their shopping mission a success the three women headed for home after stopping for a quick bite at a small diner.
Jean had quickly enlisted the help of the young men to help carry everything inside and Tranquillity was left to put everything away. Hanging up her clothes and putting her health and beauty products in their proper places she set about decorating her room. On the dresser she placed a small picture frame that would soon hold a picture of the children. Candles soon surrounded the photo and a vase filled with fresh flowers the children had picked for her. Next to an oversized reading chair, upon which she tossed an afghan, sat the small table that supported her lamp, which was graced with an incense holder, the incense placed in the drawer underneath it. A few throw pillows were placed on the bed and a stool was sat in front of the vanity. Standing back Tranquillity smiled, 'Now it's my room,' she thought to herself.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The weekend had come and gone for Charles all too quickly and it was Monday once more. His science class was over and he had some time before the next one so he decided to go for a short stroll outside, some fresh air to clear his head and lighten his mind. Rolling to a stop on the large stone patio he took a deep breath and released it with a sigh. It was times like this he wished he could walk among the trees, hidden among them, taking in the splendor of nature. But that was impossible so he tried to focus on something else. It didn't take long until his attention was diverted by the sound of laughter coming from the lawn just beyond the stone wall. Going further he looked out to see the children running around in circles, each one dodging away from the one who was blindfolded. Smiling he watched them as Simon, the tagger, caught someone and the blindfold was given to his catch. Watching the new 'it' child run after the others Charles could tell the young one was cheating. The blindfold was up just far enough to give a limited view of the world. He wasn't the only one to see it.
"Hey! No fair! Jimm's cheating! Tranquillity he's cheating!" several of the children cried as they stopped running.
"Nuh-hunh!" Jimm cried out in his defense.
Moving from her seat on the bench Tranquillity crossed over to where Jimm was standing, now with the blindfold in his hands.
"I wasn't cheating Tranquillity! It just didn't tie right!"
"All right, let me tie it so it fits right." Taking the blindfold in her hands she tied it around his head and turned him to face the children. "Can you see anything?"
"No."
"Okay then, why don't you start again?"
With a cry to raise the dead he was off, running to try and catch one of his classmates. Chuckling at his enthusiasm Tranquillity moved to return to her seat when she saw Xavier sitting on the patio. Smiling at him she made her way over to say hello. He watched her approach and noticed that she was wearing a different dress. 'Must have been from the shopping trip,' he thought. A long sundress, it reached almost to her ankles hiding her bare feet as they slipped noiselessly over the grass.
"Good afternoon," she said as she reached the wall. Propping her arms on it she placed her chin on her crossed wrists and smiled again at him. "What brings you out here?"
"Fresh air and a lull between classes," he replied. "Do you mind?"
"Never, Charles, you know that. The children love it when you stop by. And it's nice to have an adult to talk to. Someone who knows how to use big, adult words."
Charles laughed. "I see. What happened to Scott? I thought you two were working together."
"Oh he was here earlier, but he had a mechanics class to teach and he needed to prepare," Tranquillity explained. "Besides, I know the children can get under his skin on such a beautiful day like this. He needed a break."
"And you? When do you get your break?"
"About nine o'clock tonight," she laughed. "Until then..." she shrugged. "But that's okay by me. I enjoy them."
They lapsed into a companionable silence as they watched the children playing on the field. Though her eyes were on the children Tranquillity could sense the wistfulness coming from the man who was with her. She felt how much he wished he could be out there running around with them and how he missed being able to move on his own. Without saying a word she took his hand in hers and showed him the gift she had been given. Skin to skin she connected with his heart and pushed the feeling of self pity and sadness away, pulling forth the happiness that she knew was there as well.
As he sat there watching the children Xavier slowly felt his sadness at his immobility slipping away as happiness was brought to the fore. It made him think of the night, a few months ago, when one of the children had climbed up his chair to sit in his lap one night while they were watching the snowfall through the window. The young girl had laid her head on his shoulder and eventually fallen asleep, the sound of her breathing slowing until he knew she was asleep. Moving carefully so as not to wake her Charles had rolled his way to her room and deposited her in her bed, tucking in the covers tightly before whispering goodnight and closing the door.
Slowly his mind came back to the present and he felt a peaceful joy spreading itself over his heart. He was surprised by the realization that Tranquillity had placed her hand over his, realizing it only when she took it away. Silently he realized what she had done, that it was Tranquillity who had called forth the joy from within his heart. With that simple act he could fully understand the power, the gift she had been given.
"Thank you," he said quietly.
"You're welcome," she replied with a soft smile, her eyes beginning to turn white once more after changing to blue while she had held his hand.
The bell rang in the distance and he knew he had to get inside for the next class. With a small goodbye she turned to gather the children for their next activity and walked away from him. Watching her leave Charles turned to head back inside. As he crossed the doorway Tranquillity's voice rang out in his head.
~ Sometimes, Charles, that which brings us the greatest sorrow can also bring us the greatest joy. ~
For a brief moment her mind opened up to him and he saw what she had the day she had run into the forest. He watched as she had emerged from her house only to see her friend fall to the ground, his own blood pooling under him from the multiple bullet holes in his back and chest. She had picked him up cradling the man in her arms, rocking him as he uttered his last breath in a thank you for all she had done for him. Charles could feel her heart breaking in two as he died, the people she had thought to be her friends had killed the man she'd loved as a brother.
He shuddered at the fear that had coursed through her when the mob turned on her, and the relief when he had seen her boss, her friend, emerge from his car and make his way to her. The hurt boiled up when he turned on her, igniting the crowd into a frenzy and the fear returned as she ran through the forest. But suddenly it was gone and he felt the relief when Tranquillity realized she was safe and the joy she felt when she dealt with the children or spoke with her new friends at the mansion.
As suddenly as it came to him it was gone, leaving him breathless from the expanse of emotion he'd felt. ~ To feel the extremes of emotion is to have lived a life to its fullest extent. ~ she quoted. ~ Without the loss of my 'brother' I would never have known the joy you have shared with me here in your home. ~
Deep in thought Xavier rolled into his office, her words still ringing in his head. As the older children began their test he wondered at the truth of what she had said. Without his gift of telepathy, and the curse of immobility that came along with it, he would never have founded this school and never have met all those who had brought him the happiness that filled his heart. It's true he wouldn't have known the pain of losing those that he had, but he also would never have known their friendship.
'Yes,' he thought to himself. 'Sometimes, that which brings us the greatest sorrow can also bring us the greatest joy.'
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Having finished the small mound of paperwork that had been on his desk Charles was making his way down the hall to retire early when he heard loud music coming from the main rec. room. Stopping in the doorway his eyes opened wide in surprise. There, among the teens and older children of the mansion, amidst their loud 'alternative' music was Tranquillity. She was dancing and laughing with them as though she was one of their peers. Her hair pulled back into a long braid, bracelet sized earrings in her ears, a t-shirt, and cut off jean shorts she looked young enough to be in the older region of their age bracket.
Stopping on that thought he wondered... just how old was Tranquillity? There were times, like now, when she seemed young, but he had also seen her at other times looking older, more serious and time worn. Leaving the group to their fun he couldn't help but wonder how she was going to react to the opera if she enjoyed the music of the younger generations. Once more Xavier fell asleep with questions burning his mind about the latest addition to the mansion faculty.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
The week had seemed to fly by for the Professor and before he knew it it was already Friday. Classes ended early for the quartet that was to enjoy the opera so that they could ready to leave so as to make it there on time. Scott was pacing the hallway when Xavier emerged from his room.
"Scott? What's wrong?"
"Nothing, it's just... if they don't hurry we'll be late."
"Not necessarily. We still have a few moments. They're probably just finishing up some of the smaller details."
With a sigh Scott tried to relax but truth be told he was nervous about more than the time. This was the first time since they'd been married that he and Jean had 'gone out' as a couple. Sure they'd had time alone but never out in public. Why he was so nervous was beyond him but he was. He felt as though it was the first date and Scott had a bad feeling he was going to screw something up.
Chuckling at the young man Charles kept his amusement to himself and watched him pace back and forth in the hallway only to stop dead and straighten his back with undivided interest. Looking up to see what had made him stop he saw the door open and Jean emerge from Tranquillity's room in a short black dress, hugging a shawl around her bare shoulders.
"We're ready."
As she emerged from her room Charles felt his breath hitch in his throat at the sight of Tranquillity. She looked beautiful! Her dress hugged in all the right spots and her makeup was expertly done, but it was her hair that held his attention. It was pulled up somehow and the small bun that held it in place was overflowing with ringlets that cascaded down her back and over her shoulders. Tiny little flower shaped silver clips dotted her hair in both the ringlets and the bun; they shimmered when the light caught them.
With a mental slap he pulled himself from his reverie and smiled at the two women who were approaching. "Shall we go then?" The ride to the opera house was short, the small travel plane getting them there in record time, and it wasn't long until the lights dimmed and the curtain went up. Sitting in their private box, the two women in the front and the men in the back, they had a fantastic view of the stage and actors in all their glory. The performance was excellent and all too quickly it came time for the intermission. Scott and Jean left to get some wine and Xavier turned his attention to Tranquillity who was still staring at the stage. Peering around her shoulder he was shocked to see tears glistening on her cheeks, as her eyes were a pale orange in color.
She felt a warm hand on her shoulder and turned to see Charles staring at her in concern. Smiling back at him she shook her head.
"I'm fine. It was just so... I never expected anything like that. It was so beautiful!"
His concern melted away into a smile as he realized she had been moved by the music. "La Caviatta is a powerful opera. This is the sixth time I've seen it and it still moves me. To be honest I wasn't sure if you would enjoy it or not. I know you like the music of the younger generation. Opera is so very different from it."
Tranquillity drew her brow in confusion. "I don't understand. Why did you think I wouldn't like it?" Choosing his words carefully he let her know that he had seen her dancing with the students a few nights ago. She seemed to be truly enjoying herself. Tranquillity smiled at him. "I did enjoy spending some time with them, yes, but their music is so...loud. You can't even understand what they're saying. But the more I was in the room the more I felt their joy and excitement and I got swept up in it. This music though, the opera, it's so different. It's filled with emotion and the melody is so very beautiful, it almost took my breath away."
He could read her eyes as easily as she could others and knew how much the music had affected her but before he could say anything further their partners returned.
"Tranquillity? What's wrong? Why are you crying?" Jean asked as she took her seat.
For the first time she realized there were tears on her cheeks and swiped them away with a dab of her handkerchief. Laughing at herself she took the offered glass but didn't drink. She had never cared for alcohol, in the limited exposure she had had to it, and didn't intend to start now. As the performance began once more she was swept away once more into the music and story and the second half ended much too soon. Waiting for the majority of the crowd to disperse the quartet chatted amongst themselves and it was decided that they would stop off for a cup of coffee before heading home.
Seated in the dark restaurant they were served and were enjoying a quiet conversation when the music began to play. Scott rose and escorted his wife onto the dance floor. Watching them Tranquillity could see, and feel, the love emanating from the couple.
"How long have they been married?" she asked.
"A little over two years now. It took then three times as long to finally wise up and realize how right they were for each other." The duo chuckled.
In the dark room she knew that it would be difficult to see her eyes but Tranquillity kept her head down all the same, focusing on the table or her coffee. "Are you ashamed of it?" he asked as he watched her keep her eyes hidden.
"Ashamed?" she repeated. "No, not ashamed. Just tired of all the questions it raises. While I was on my own I had to pretend to be blind just so that people would stop gawking and asking questions. I took to wearing a pair of dark sunglasses. I guess I've gotten so used to hiding my eyes that its become a second nature to me."
Before Charles could respond a man approached their table, his eyes raking over Tranquillity. "'Scuse me, ma'am, would you like to dance?" he said, his tone making it more of a command than a request.
"No thank you," she replied without hesitation. "I'm busy at the moment."
"That's funny, you don't look busy," he said as he laid an iron like hand around her arm, pulling her up from her chair.
"No! I said no!" she fought him, trying to release her arm from his painful grasp. She could smell the stench of alcohol on his breath. "Please! You're hurting me!"
"Let her go," Charles demanded, his tone hard and his eyes threatening. "The lady said she doesn't want to dance."
"Well she's standing here with me isn't she? What you gonna do about it wheels?" the man chuckled at his pathetic joke.
Reaching out with his mind Charles repeated his command one more time, this time controlling the stranger's mind to do as he was ordered. As he let go of Tranquillity Jean, who had been alerted by Xavier, put her arm around her and began to move toward the door. Scott paid the bill and he joined the Professor in leaving the restaurant. Emerging onto the street he released his hold on the mans mind, planted a message to go home for the night and turned his attention to Tranquillity. She was standing on her own and seemed okay but he could see that her hands were still shaking.
"Let's go home."
It was a short walk to the plane and a quiet flight home as each one was lost in their own thoughts. Tranquillity had calmed down and, though she could feel the bruise forming on her arm, knew she was okay. She also knew how guilty her three companions felt about what had happened. As they stood in the hallway of the mansion she faced them.
"Thank you for such a wonderful evening. Now that I know what the opera is I doubt I'll be able to stay away from it for long," she smiled. "Please... please try to forget what happened. It was a stupid mistake on his part and is better forgotten than remembered. It was no ones fault." Giving their friend a small smile Jean and Scott moved off to get some sleep leaving Tranquillity and Charles to face each other alone. "I did have a wonderful evening."
Forcing his emotions down deep where she couldn't feel them he smiled at her and said he was glad. "Goodnight, Tranquillity."
She watched him head toward his office and frowned at his back. Though he had pushed them down deep she could still feel his anger, his guilt, and his shame at what had happened. Sighing, she knew better than to try and speak with him now. Climbing the stairs Tranquillity walked down the hallway into her room and shut the door behind her. Even as she changed she could hear his emotions as if he were right there besides her, speaking them aloud. Donning her pajama pant and shirt she tried to curl up in bed and sleep but found she could not shut off the emotions from Charles that were streaming through her heart. Tossing the covers aside she pulled on a robe and left her room to go find him.
Concentrating on where the emotions were coming from she knew he was still in his office, even though over two hours had passed since they had gotten home. Padding her way to the closed door she knocked lightly and opened the door. A few steps in she paused and shut the door behind her before curling herself up in the corner of his couch. Silently she watched him as he sat behind his desk, his jacket tossed over a chair in the corner, his black vest standing out against the crisp white shirt with it's top button undone and cuffs rolled up a time or two. Staring at each other the silence lasted a few more moments until Tranquillity finally spoke her mind.
"Stop it," she ordered in the tone she used on a naughty child, soft but firm, leaving no room for argument. "Stop beating yourself up over what happened. There was nothing you could have done to stop what he did. It could have been either Jean or I and he just happened to get me." Anticipating his thought she kept going. "And you did help me. I know you did your telepathy thing to make him let go of me and it was a good thing you did because I am no where near strong enough to break a grasp like that one." Pausing for a moment she wiated until he met her stare once more. "He didn't hurt me." She saw the look cross his face and knew she'd been caught. "All right. He did, but not a lot, it's only a bruise. In a few days time it will disappear and will be but a distant memory."
Silence reigned once more as he took in the words she had spoken. He knew they were true but it didn't help him from feeling responsible for what had happened.
"All right."
"All right, what?" she asked.
"All right I'll stop."
She watched him for a moment before her white eyes began to change; they began to turn a light shade of gray as her eyes narrowed. "You're lying," she accused him. "You're saying what you think I want to hear."
Charles slumped back in his chair, knowing she wouldn't give up till he admitted it. "Is that what you want to hear? That I feel responsible for what happened tonight? That you were hurt because I couldn't stand up and defend my own friend?"
Tranquillity sighed. "Why do you do that Charles? Why do you bring everything back to the fact that you're in a wheelchair? That is not who you are."
Sensing his disbelief and self-pity she threw her hands up in the air in frustation. Getting up from her place on the couch she began to pace the room stopping every now and then to look him in the eyes to make her point.
"Tell me, what would... what's his name... Eric, what would Eric think if he saw you now? Sitting her, in your office, pitying yourself. You're stronger than that, Charles. But you take something like tonight and you put all the blame on yourself, whether you deserve it or not. You think that because you are in charge everything falls on your shoulders. And if something fails then it's because you're in a wheelchair. Well guess what! You are not responsible for the actions of a perfect stranger. You had no control over what happened tonight. If you hadn't done what you did I would have been dragged out to that dance floor against my will and who knows what would have happened then. You prevented that, no one else."
Stopping her pacing Tranquillity moved to sit on his desk, facing him. "There is not a single person in this mansion who does not owe you their life, Charles Xavier. Where would these people be if you hadn't come into their lives? Marie would be dead from Eric's little invention; Remy would still be on the streets fighting; Logan would still be on the road never knowing the limited knowledge you helped him find at Alkali Lake; Richard would be living with an abusive father; Scott and Jean would never have met... you have saved so many lives... all the while doing it from the confines of your wheelchair."
Hooking a finger under his chin she raised his eyes to meet hers. "And what about me? Without you... I'd have died in that river, never knowing the beauty of something as simple as opera. You saved my life, but more importantly you saved my spirit. In the first week I was here you showed me that there are decent people who care enough to make this world a better place, people who could be trusted. All my life all I've known were people who hated the very thing that I was, a mutant. But here I've learned that I do have a place in this world, that there is a place where I can make a difference by using the power, the gift, that I was given. You were the one who did that... You, Charles."
Taking a deep breath he took her hand in his own and kept his gaze locked with hers. "Thank you," he said, his simple words telling her everything she needed to know.
Her hand tingled inside of his and she glanced down at them, joined atop the desk, fingers laced through one another, her dainty ones almost swallowed by his own large ones. His thumb had, unconsciously, been rubbing back and forth against the palm of her hand making small circles on her skin. Shyly she glanced back up at him and smiled.
"I'd better get some sleep. The children have a special outing tomorrow that I promised I'd go along on," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Goodnight, Charles."
"Goodnight."
But neither of them moved. Staring at the other, each one was at a loss for thought or movement, not wanting to break whatever it was that was happening. Suddenly the grandfather clock struck three times, three am, and their spell was broken. Moving away to the safety of the doorway she looked back at him, still sitting behind his desk. Staring for a moment longer she turned and ran for her room, scared that if she didn't she'd never make it there. Tossing her robe to the floor she climbed into bed and forced herself to go to sleep.
As Charles made his final round for the night, almost an hour later, he stopped outside her door, his hand tingling from her touch, and heard the light melody that drifted out from within. After only a few verses, he recognized it as the main love song from La Caviatta. Smiling to himself he rolled down to his own room, knowing that sleep would still be a long while coming.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
End Chap 5
I'm working on Chap 6... I swear it!