Disclaimer: I don't own Mutant X or X-Men, title or characters. Evie is my
character.
Chapter 25 – Love, Hope, Life
Evie relaxed and tried to do as she was instructed. "I don't really 'see' anything."
"Concentrate, it will come. Your mind has to get used to reading the signals. You need to do this on your own. If I help you, your powers will retreat and give way to mine. Relax and breathe."
After a few moments she did begin to 'see.' With a gasp she began, "I can see---Thomas. It's like I can see into his soul. He's smiling at me." She suddenly opened her eyes when she heard Jean laugh.
"Let me have him. See, Hank? We have to watch him. He's getting in the way already." Jean took her son and passed him off to the large comfortable arms of the doctor who delivered him. Looking back to a very confused couple she said, "Now try again. Relax and breathe. Concentrate. You'll 'see' shortly now that we got the ham out of your way."
Evie took a deep breath and tried again. After only a moment this time they watched as a tear fell from her eye.
The blasting now done, they noticed the rock above the entrance they created begin to shift. Rogue flew up and braced herself against it as Storm called forth the winds to clear the falling dirt inside the cave. Once they spotted Jesse and Kitty, Wolverine and Brennan dashed into the cave traversing the obstacle course of rock to get to them. They quickly began moving the rocks to relieve the pressure on Jesse's back and saw him use the last ounce of strength he had to roll away from Kitty.
"Jesse," Brennan immediately checked his neck.
Panting once again he managed, "I'm ok, Brenn. Get Kitty."
"I got her." Wolverine quickly scooped up the limp form of the now unconscious Kitty in his arms and began following the trail Shalimar had made on her way in.
She rushed to see Brennan lifting Jesse over his shoulder and led them out just as the cave began to collapse. They could see the light from the opening as more dirt and rocks began to fall. With only about 10 feet to go, Brennan collapsed when hit with a falling rock from above. Shalimar tried to get to him when a sudden tornado wind swooped in and carried the three out and high into the air. Rogue move away just in time to turn and see the entire interior collapse. The X-Men watched as Storm lowered them toward the ground and slowly diminished the winds. Cyclops and Gambit moved into the winds to support Brennan and Jesse as they touched down. Shalimar of course landed gracefully on her feet and moved to find both Brennan and Jesse unconscious. "Don't worry, suga'. They'll be ok now. You'll see." Rogue helped her to her feet. Gambit lifted Brennan and Cyclops took Jesse as they all began to get past the trees. As soon as they were all into a clearing Storm once again called upon the winds to hasten their trip home.
Evie opened her eyes and looked to see Jean smiling proudly at her. "Did I just sense---?"
"You certainly did. It was one of the most precious moments in my life when I sensed him. I knew it would be for you, too."
"Evie," Adam's concern and confusion were intensifying as his eyes shifted between both women. "What did you sense?"
With slight trepidation she asked Jean, "Do you think I'm strong enough to-- -?"
"You try and I'll help you."
Evie turned so she could look into Adam's eyes. "Sweetheart, close your eyes. I want you to see what I see." Adam slowly complied and with Jean's help, Evie sent to him.
Adam met Evie in his mind. It was similar to the experience they shared when their friend Joe took Adam into Emma's mind to help Evie's consciousness return to her own body. He could sense her feelings of great joy and instinctively moved closer to her. ~Adam, can you hear me?~
~Yes, darling. What's happening?" He could sense changes happening all around him.
~Adam, concentrate. Do you feel it? You will understand when you do."~
Adam tried harder. Suddenly there was movement around him. There were feelings and instincts and traits. As a whirlwind around him calmed, Adam understood. He opened his tear filled eye to meet those of his wife. Pulling her into his embrace he whispered, "Oh, Evie, that was so--- amazing. I love you so much."
"I was hoping you could feel it like I did." She held him tightly.
Looking back to Hank and Jean he smiled, "Thank you. I can't believe it." He pulled Evie into another hug as their friends gathered closer.
Just then Charles came in. "I believe congratulations are in order."
Evie turned to him. "How long have you known?" She turned a suspicious eye on her friend.
"I suspected after the first reading when you called me for help. Each time I 'spoke' with you I was given more confirmation."
Jean turned to him and asked, "Is there any word on Kitty?"
"Yes, actually. They are on their way back here now. They are in need of some medical attention but I believe it is not serious."
A short while later the teams arrived. Brennan, Jesse and Kitty were all put onto beds as Hank, Jean and Adam each tended one patient. Shalimar waited by Brennan's side as Hank scanned him. Evie gently wiped the dirt from Jesse's face as Adam checked his injuries. Logan held Kitty's hand as Jean made sure there was no permanent damage.
"I believe they will all be just fine. There doesn't seem to be permanent damage," Hank announced, after a brief doctors' conference.
Relief was felt around the room as everyone began to relax. Evie moved to Kitty's side and reached out to touch her.
"Whoa, wait a minute." Evie stopped as everyone turned to see Adam gently take his wife's hands. "Do you think you really should be doing that?"
They both turned when they heard Hank and Jean both chuckle. "We are sorry, my friend," Hank looked to Jean then back to Adam, "but I hardly think there is reason to worry. There is no evidence to warrant the suspension of the use of her abilities."
"I'm just not sure the two will work well together under the circumstances," Adam defended.
"Well, I will concede to your cautions but realize that here with us is the best place to try. If something should go awry we will be able to handle it together." Hank smiled knowing his friend was overreacting.
"Adam," Evie squeezed his hands, "I've already done this. I healed Ororo's shoulder. Everything was fine. Please, don't worry."
Looking down sheepishly Adam agreed, "Will you at least start with Brennan. He's in the least bad shape. You can work your way up from there." He looked into her eyes as she smiled at him and added in a whisper, "for me."
Evie hugged her overreacting husband. "I love you," she whispered back in his ear, then turned and walked to where Shalimar stared questioningly from Brennan's side. Taking Brennan's hand in hers she closed her eyes and let the healing process begin. In a matter of moments he opened his eyes and sat up with Shalimar's help. Adam moved to Evie, "How do you feel?"
"I'm fine, darling. I actually feel really well right now."
"It's her powers," Jean said from across the room, "it will do that every time."
Adam smiled and stepped out of her way as she went to Jesse. After giving him the same treatment she gave Brennan he too, sat up and smiled at her.
When he scanned the room he noticed Kitty lying still on the next bed. Jumping up, he moved to her side and took her hand. "Is she ok?" he asked obviously still worried about her.
"She will be in a minute." Evie confidently took Kitty's hand from his. Healing Kitty took a little longer.
When she didn't open her eyes like the guys, Jesse turned to Evie. "What's wrong? Why isn't she coming around?"
"She will," interrupted the professor, "After the concussion her mind needs time to sleep in order to realign itself with real time."
Shalimar couldn't take it anymore. "What's going on? Why did you try to stop Evie from healing anyone?" Her sharp tone was directed at Adam.
He smiled at Evie as she walked over to him and laced her fingers with his. "Go ahead," he whispered as he kissed her.
Evie laughed at the mixture of looks she was receiving from those around her. Settling her eyes on Shalimar she finally gave in. "We're going to have a baby." She was smiling as Adam proudly draped an arm around her.
The volume in the room quickly rose as everyone began congratulating the couple. As if feeling the sudden loss of being the center of everyone's world, Thomas began to cry.
Taking advantage of everyone's focused attention the professor announced, "While we are all very happy for our friends, we still have a mansion to run. I suggest we get to it and leave Kitty to recuperate in peace. Evie, please come to my office."
As everyone filed out, Jesse stayed at her side. He suddenly felt a large hand on his back. Turning, he saw the smiling face of the blue giant he'd come to know and admire.
"Jesse, she'll be alright. Despite her petite frame, she is a very strong girl."
"I know. If you wouldn't mind, though, I'd like to sit here with her. She stayed with me through a lot these last few days."
After only a moment's consideration, the doctor consented. "I have a health class to instruct. Should you have an emergency, hit the med alert on the console."
"Thank you." Jesse watched as the man left and then pulled a chair closer to the bed to await the awakening of the beauty sleeping before him.
In the professor's office Evie spent the afternoon learning exercises to help strengthen her abilities. It was also decided that Mutant X would return home in the morning.
After attending to her duties, Jubilee went down to the med lab. She peered in the large window and watched as Jesse just sat at Kitty's side holding her hand. Remorse flooded her heart as she thought about what she caused. Taking a deep breath to muster enough courage, she stepped in front of the door to activate its sensor.
Hearing a swoosh, Jesse turned and watched as Jubilee walked slowly toward him. He smiled as he thought about what had happened in the kitchen.
"How is she?" she asked.
"There hasn't been any change yet. The doc said we just had to wait for her to wake on her own."
"Jess, listen. I, um, I just wanted to talk to you about this morning." She looked down as she tried to continue.
"Jubes, you don't have to say anything."
"Yeah I do. I feel like I have to talk to you about it, one on one. I wasn't trying to attack you, really, and the last thing I would want to do is lose you as a friend."
"You haven't."
She smiled as she went on. "Under normal circumstances, what I was thinking would have been right, wouldn't it? I mean it's only natural for a guy in the situation you were in to be, you know, looking for comfort. And let's face it," she was speaking fast and furious to get it all out, "Kitty wasn't exactly very successful at hiding her feelings for you. She's been carrying around this crush for you since we turned teen. I thought that was the reason you were able to get past her rational thinking.
'Man, doesn't she need to breathe,' Jesse thought.
"But then the professor showed me what really went on. I guess I hadn't thought about the mutant factor in all of this. I'm really glad that Emma was able to help you to move on. I know how close you were. That was part of why I got so angry. I think I was partly defending Emma as well as Kitty. I feel so stupid now for doubting all of you."
Jesse stood and walked over to her. "Jubilee, relax. I understand, really. I know you couldn't have known about Emma. Kitty and I both knew you were going to have 'some questions' after the comp call we got at Sanctuary. I'm glad Kitty has such a good friend." He gave her a hug. "She's gonna need you to talk to if she decides to give our relationship a chance. I just hope that when she wakes up, she'll still be willing to."
They both turned when they heard a soft moan. Kitty blinked at the bright lights as she tried to sit up. Feeling the room spin she fell back on the bed. "Oh, what happened?" she whispered.
Jubilee rushed to her side. "Kitty, I'm so glad you're awake," she leaned over and hugged her friend.
"Thanks, I think." Kitty kept her eyes closed as she tried to get the room to stop spinning. Suddenly remembering what had happened, her eyes snapped opened and focused hard on her friend. "Jesse, Jubilee, where's Jesse?" Her voice held panic and desperation.
Stepping into her view, Jesse smiled shyly at her not knowing whether she really wanted to see him or not. "I'm right here." Relief set in as she smiled at him.
"Look, Kitty, I have to tell you something. I was wrong. I didn't have all the facts and I jumped to too many conclusions."
"Yeah, that sounds like you." Kitty lightly punched her shoulder.
"Yeah, well," Jubilee smiled as she looked at Jesse, "I had some things explained to me and well, I think it might be fun to have Jesse come to visit a little more often." She looked back to Kitty. "I'm really sorry for all the things I said last night. I was way out of line. Could you ever forgive me?"
Kitty looked up at her. "No." She smiled as fear and sadness flashed on Jubilee's face. "I can't forgive you for being you. I wouldn't want you any other way." They hugged as their friendship was strengthened.
"I'll leave you two alone now. I have to help Ororo and Shalimar with dinner." She hugged and kissed them both then quickly left the lab.
After watching her leave, Jesse turned back to Kitty who was now sitting up on the bed. "Hey, maybe you shouldn't get up yet."
"I'm fine now." Looking at the condition of her clothes she added, "I think I'll feel much better after a shower, though."
"Kitty, I---"Jesse began slowly but stopped when her hand touched his lips.
"Stop, Jesse. I'm the one who has to apologize." He took her hands in his. "I overreacted to everything that happened. I shouldn't have been so insecure when Jubilee attacked what she saw. I should have trusted in you, Jess," she breathed. "I'm so sorry for pushing you away in the cave.
"It's been a very emotional time for all of us. I'm sure I put you through a lot." He kissed her hands as he watched for her reaction in her eyes looking for the smallest sign to encourage him. When she closed her eyes and smiled as his lips gently touched her skin, he got his answer. "Kitty, I know a lot was said and you've had a rough time trying to sort it all out but---if you are still willing to accept me, I want you to be a part of my life. I want the chance to get to know you. I remember that you like floats with chocolate ice cream and two cherries, and you always leave the cherries fall to the bottom of the glass so you can eat them last." He smiled as Kitty giggled. "I know you can think on your feet during a mission but you need some help getting out." Her giggling stopped with a sudden intake of breath and with wide eyes she pulled one hand away from him and punched his shoulder. He quickly grabbed back her hand and kissed it again. When she smiled back at him he continued. "I know you felt really good in my arms when we danced but that's it. I want to know more. I want to know everything you like and hate. I want to know what you think and feel. Will you give me the chance to find out?" He watched as she looked down. "Kitty, are you willing to give us a chance?"
Kitty didn't respond for what seemed like forever. Just as Jesse's heart began to sink with rejection she looked up and stared into his eyes. "Jesse, a lot has happened to both of us over the last week. It seems like we experienced the extremes in both directions. I think we've been--- carried away with our emotions."
Jesse's heart sank. He couldn't help looking away. He released her hands and slowly turned and took a few steps from her. "I guess you're right." His voice was broken and his shoulders slumped.
Knowing what he was feeling, Kitty jumped off the bed and stood in front of him. "Jesse, look at me." She placed her hands on the sides of his face and forced his empty eyes to meet hers. "Jesse, I fell in love with you the first time I met you but I knew there was no room in your life for me. You were happy and that was enough for me. I truly was content just being your friend. With everything that happened now, I know that I could never be that content again." She smiled as Jesse's eyes slowly began to sparkle with renewed life. She moved her hands to his shoulders as she felt him place his hands on her hips. "I love you, Jess. More than anything I want us to work out. I know we have to take it slow; rushing will only cause problems we won't want to deal with. I just hope that some day you can love me as much as you loved Emma."
Jesse's smile was incredible. He pulled her into a hug that he never wanted to end. He held her close as his voice was a mere whisper in her ear. "Kitty, I---I don't know what to say. You've made me so happy."
Pulling away Kitty looked up at him. "There's just one thing."
"Anything. Whatever you want."
"Even though we're taking it slow, just once in a while can you---um, kiss me the way you did last night?" She saw a sudden change in Jesse's eyes that almost scared her. They went from light and smiling to dark and deep with desire. She found that she was being slowly drawn toward them and there was nothing she could do as she felt herself falling helplessly into their depths.
Jesse slowly laced his fingers in her hair and secured her head in his grasp. His other hand slowly caressed her back as it found its place. Holding her tenderly and firmly he lowered his head and captured her lips with his. The soft kiss deepened and soon they were both passionately carried away with the joy and closeness they felt. Gasping for air as they reluctantly pulled apart, Jesse hugged her and whispered, "I love you."
After a joyfully loud dinner and a very riotous bed time the adults of the mansion were finally left to themselves for the night. "What shall we do for your last night with us?" asked Ororo.
"We usually get to hit a club when we're here. Let's do that." Shalimar offered.
The professor turned in after his tiring week. Hank returned to experiments he had running. Scott and Jean had someone to care for now. Evie was exhausted and Adam wanted nothing more than to rest with her in his arms. The others piled into the van and headed out for the night.
The club was loud. Energy flowed from every corner as the group spent the evening drinking and dancing and laughing together. None of the couples missed an opportunity to slow dance. Even Jubilee, who went along, found a different partner for each one.
As the night drew to a close and the final dance was announced, Jesse took Kitty's hand. "How about a last dance before I have to go tomorrow?"
"Only if you promise me you'll come back for more," she whispered in his ear as he embraced her.
"I love you, Kitty. I know way down deep that this is right. I belong right here, in your arms. Tell me you'll stay in mine." Jesse kissed her neck.
"I promise to always hold you, Jess, as long as you promise to always come back." She looked into his eyes for the briefest of moments before they were lost in the music, in the dance, in each other's arms and in their kiss; a kiss which held the promise of a lifetime of tomorrows.
The End
Chapter 25 – Love, Hope, Life
Evie relaxed and tried to do as she was instructed. "I don't really 'see' anything."
"Concentrate, it will come. Your mind has to get used to reading the signals. You need to do this on your own. If I help you, your powers will retreat and give way to mine. Relax and breathe."
After a few moments she did begin to 'see.' With a gasp she began, "I can see---Thomas. It's like I can see into his soul. He's smiling at me." She suddenly opened her eyes when she heard Jean laugh.
"Let me have him. See, Hank? We have to watch him. He's getting in the way already." Jean took her son and passed him off to the large comfortable arms of the doctor who delivered him. Looking back to a very confused couple she said, "Now try again. Relax and breathe. Concentrate. You'll 'see' shortly now that we got the ham out of your way."
Evie took a deep breath and tried again. After only a moment this time they watched as a tear fell from her eye.
The blasting now done, they noticed the rock above the entrance they created begin to shift. Rogue flew up and braced herself against it as Storm called forth the winds to clear the falling dirt inside the cave. Once they spotted Jesse and Kitty, Wolverine and Brennan dashed into the cave traversing the obstacle course of rock to get to them. They quickly began moving the rocks to relieve the pressure on Jesse's back and saw him use the last ounce of strength he had to roll away from Kitty.
"Jesse," Brennan immediately checked his neck.
Panting once again he managed, "I'm ok, Brenn. Get Kitty."
"I got her." Wolverine quickly scooped up the limp form of the now unconscious Kitty in his arms and began following the trail Shalimar had made on her way in.
She rushed to see Brennan lifting Jesse over his shoulder and led them out just as the cave began to collapse. They could see the light from the opening as more dirt and rocks began to fall. With only about 10 feet to go, Brennan collapsed when hit with a falling rock from above. Shalimar tried to get to him when a sudden tornado wind swooped in and carried the three out and high into the air. Rogue move away just in time to turn and see the entire interior collapse. The X-Men watched as Storm lowered them toward the ground and slowly diminished the winds. Cyclops and Gambit moved into the winds to support Brennan and Jesse as they touched down. Shalimar of course landed gracefully on her feet and moved to find both Brennan and Jesse unconscious. "Don't worry, suga'. They'll be ok now. You'll see." Rogue helped her to her feet. Gambit lifted Brennan and Cyclops took Jesse as they all began to get past the trees. As soon as they were all into a clearing Storm once again called upon the winds to hasten their trip home.
Evie opened her eyes and looked to see Jean smiling proudly at her. "Did I just sense---?"
"You certainly did. It was one of the most precious moments in my life when I sensed him. I knew it would be for you, too."
"Evie," Adam's concern and confusion were intensifying as his eyes shifted between both women. "What did you sense?"
With slight trepidation she asked Jean, "Do you think I'm strong enough to-- -?"
"You try and I'll help you."
Evie turned so she could look into Adam's eyes. "Sweetheart, close your eyes. I want you to see what I see." Adam slowly complied and with Jean's help, Evie sent to him.
Adam met Evie in his mind. It was similar to the experience they shared when their friend Joe took Adam into Emma's mind to help Evie's consciousness return to her own body. He could sense her feelings of great joy and instinctively moved closer to her. ~Adam, can you hear me?~
~Yes, darling. What's happening?" He could sense changes happening all around him.
~Adam, concentrate. Do you feel it? You will understand when you do."~
Adam tried harder. Suddenly there was movement around him. There were feelings and instincts and traits. As a whirlwind around him calmed, Adam understood. He opened his tear filled eye to meet those of his wife. Pulling her into his embrace he whispered, "Oh, Evie, that was so--- amazing. I love you so much."
"I was hoping you could feel it like I did." She held him tightly.
Looking back to Hank and Jean he smiled, "Thank you. I can't believe it." He pulled Evie into another hug as their friends gathered closer.
Just then Charles came in. "I believe congratulations are in order."
Evie turned to him. "How long have you known?" She turned a suspicious eye on her friend.
"I suspected after the first reading when you called me for help. Each time I 'spoke' with you I was given more confirmation."
Jean turned to him and asked, "Is there any word on Kitty?"
"Yes, actually. They are on their way back here now. They are in need of some medical attention but I believe it is not serious."
A short while later the teams arrived. Brennan, Jesse and Kitty were all put onto beds as Hank, Jean and Adam each tended one patient. Shalimar waited by Brennan's side as Hank scanned him. Evie gently wiped the dirt from Jesse's face as Adam checked his injuries. Logan held Kitty's hand as Jean made sure there was no permanent damage.
"I believe they will all be just fine. There doesn't seem to be permanent damage," Hank announced, after a brief doctors' conference.
Relief was felt around the room as everyone began to relax. Evie moved to Kitty's side and reached out to touch her.
"Whoa, wait a minute." Evie stopped as everyone turned to see Adam gently take his wife's hands. "Do you think you really should be doing that?"
They both turned when they heard Hank and Jean both chuckle. "We are sorry, my friend," Hank looked to Jean then back to Adam, "but I hardly think there is reason to worry. There is no evidence to warrant the suspension of the use of her abilities."
"I'm just not sure the two will work well together under the circumstances," Adam defended.
"Well, I will concede to your cautions but realize that here with us is the best place to try. If something should go awry we will be able to handle it together." Hank smiled knowing his friend was overreacting.
"Adam," Evie squeezed his hands, "I've already done this. I healed Ororo's shoulder. Everything was fine. Please, don't worry."
Looking down sheepishly Adam agreed, "Will you at least start with Brennan. He's in the least bad shape. You can work your way up from there." He looked into her eyes as she smiled at him and added in a whisper, "for me."
Evie hugged her overreacting husband. "I love you," she whispered back in his ear, then turned and walked to where Shalimar stared questioningly from Brennan's side. Taking Brennan's hand in hers she closed her eyes and let the healing process begin. In a matter of moments he opened his eyes and sat up with Shalimar's help. Adam moved to Evie, "How do you feel?"
"I'm fine, darling. I actually feel really well right now."
"It's her powers," Jean said from across the room, "it will do that every time."
Adam smiled and stepped out of her way as she went to Jesse. After giving him the same treatment she gave Brennan he too, sat up and smiled at her.
When he scanned the room he noticed Kitty lying still on the next bed. Jumping up, he moved to her side and took her hand. "Is she ok?" he asked obviously still worried about her.
"She will be in a minute." Evie confidently took Kitty's hand from his. Healing Kitty took a little longer.
When she didn't open her eyes like the guys, Jesse turned to Evie. "What's wrong? Why isn't she coming around?"
"She will," interrupted the professor, "After the concussion her mind needs time to sleep in order to realign itself with real time."
Shalimar couldn't take it anymore. "What's going on? Why did you try to stop Evie from healing anyone?" Her sharp tone was directed at Adam.
He smiled at Evie as she walked over to him and laced her fingers with his. "Go ahead," he whispered as he kissed her.
Evie laughed at the mixture of looks she was receiving from those around her. Settling her eyes on Shalimar she finally gave in. "We're going to have a baby." She was smiling as Adam proudly draped an arm around her.
The volume in the room quickly rose as everyone began congratulating the couple. As if feeling the sudden loss of being the center of everyone's world, Thomas began to cry.
Taking advantage of everyone's focused attention the professor announced, "While we are all very happy for our friends, we still have a mansion to run. I suggest we get to it and leave Kitty to recuperate in peace. Evie, please come to my office."
As everyone filed out, Jesse stayed at her side. He suddenly felt a large hand on his back. Turning, he saw the smiling face of the blue giant he'd come to know and admire.
"Jesse, she'll be alright. Despite her petite frame, she is a very strong girl."
"I know. If you wouldn't mind, though, I'd like to sit here with her. She stayed with me through a lot these last few days."
After only a moment's consideration, the doctor consented. "I have a health class to instruct. Should you have an emergency, hit the med alert on the console."
"Thank you." Jesse watched as the man left and then pulled a chair closer to the bed to await the awakening of the beauty sleeping before him.
In the professor's office Evie spent the afternoon learning exercises to help strengthen her abilities. It was also decided that Mutant X would return home in the morning.
After attending to her duties, Jubilee went down to the med lab. She peered in the large window and watched as Jesse just sat at Kitty's side holding her hand. Remorse flooded her heart as she thought about what she caused. Taking a deep breath to muster enough courage, she stepped in front of the door to activate its sensor.
Hearing a swoosh, Jesse turned and watched as Jubilee walked slowly toward him. He smiled as he thought about what had happened in the kitchen.
"How is she?" she asked.
"There hasn't been any change yet. The doc said we just had to wait for her to wake on her own."
"Jess, listen. I, um, I just wanted to talk to you about this morning." She looked down as she tried to continue.
"Jubes, you don't have to say anything."
"Yeah I do. I feel like I have to talk to you about it, one on one. I wasn't trying to attack you, really, and the last thing I would want to do is lose you as a friend."
"You haven't."
She smiled as she went on. "Under normal circumstances, what I was thinking would have been right, wouldn't it? I mean it's only natural for a guy in the situation you were in to be, you know, looking for comfort. And let's face it," she was speaking fast and furious to get it all out, "Kitty wasn't exactly very successful at hiding her feelings for you. She's been carrying around this crush for you since we turned teen. I thought that was the reason you were able to get past her rational thinking.
'Man, doesn't she need to breathe,' Jesse thought.
"But then the professor showed me what really went on. I guess I hadn't thought about the mutant factor in all of this. I'm really glad that Emma was able to help you to move on. I know how close you were. That was part of why I got so angry. I think I was partly defending Emma as well as Kitty. I feel so stupid now for doubting all of you."
Jesse stood and walked over to her. "Jubilee, relax. I understand, really. I know you couldn't have known about Emma. Kitty and I both knew you were going to have 'some questions' after the comp call we got at Sanctuary. I'm glad Kitty has such a good friend." He gave her a hug. "She's gonna need you to talk to if she decides to give our relationship a chance. I just hope that when she wakes up, she'll still be willing to."
They both turned when they heard a soft moan. Kitty blinked at the bright lights as she tried to sit up. Feeling the room spin she fell back on the bed. "Oh, what happened?" she whispered.
Jubilee rushed to her side. "Kitty, I'm so glad you're awake," she leaned over and hugged her friend.
"Thanks, I think." Kitty kept her eyes closed as she tried to get the room to stop spinning. Suddenly remembering what had happened, her eyes snapped opened and focused hard on her friend. "Jesse, Jubilee, where's Jesse?" Her voice held panic and desperation.
Stepping into her view, Jesse smiled shyly at her not knowing whether she really wanted to see him or not. "I'm right here." Relief set in as she smiled at him.
"Look, Kitty, I have to tell you something. I was wrong. I didn't have all the facts and I jumped to too many conclusions."
"Yeah, that sounds like you." Kitty lightly punched her shoulder.
"Yeah, well," Jubilee smiled as she looked at Jesse, "I had some things explained to me and well, I think it might be fun to have Jesse come to visit a little more often." She looked back to Kitty. "I'm really sorry for all the things I said last night. I was way out of line. Could you ever forgive me?"
Kitty looked up at her. "No." She smiled as fear and sadness flashed on Jubilee's face. "I can't forgive you for being you. I wouldn't want you any other way." They hugged as their friendship was strengthened.
"I'll leave you two alone now. I have to help Ororo and Shalimar with dinner." She hugged and kissed them both then quickly left the lab.
After watching her leave, Jesse turned back to Kitty who was now sitting up on the bed. "Hey, maybe you shouldn't get up yet."
"I'm fine now." Looking at the condition of her clothes she added, "I think I'll feel much better after a shower, though."
"Kitty, I---"Jesse began slowly but stopped when her hand touched his lips.
"Stop, Jesse. I'm the one who has to apologize." He took her hands in his. "I overreacted to everything that happened. I shouldn't have been so insecure when Jubilee attacked what she saw. I should have trusted in you, Jess," she breathed. "I'm so sorry for pushing you away in the cave.
"It's been a very emotional time for all of us. I'm sure I put you through a lot." He kissed her hands as he watched for her reaction in her eyes looking for the smallest sign to encourage him. When she closed her eyes and smiled as his lips gently touched her skin, he got his answer. "Kitty, I know a lot was said and you've had a rough time trying to sort it all out but---if you are still willing to accept me, I want you to be a part of my life. I want the chance to get to know you. I remember that you like floats with chocolate ice cream and two cherries, and you always leave the cherries fall to the bottom of the glass so you can eat them last." He smiled as Kitty giggled. "I know you can think on your feet during a mission but you need some help getting out." Her giggling stopped with a sudden intake of breath and with wide eyes she pulled one hand away from him and punched his shoulder. He quickly grabbed back her hand and kissed it again. When she smiled back at him he continued. "I know you felt really good in my arms when we danced but that's it. I want to know more. I want to know everything you like and hate. I want to know what you think and feel. Will you give me the chance to find out?" He watched as she looked down. "Kitty, are you willing to give us a chance?"
Kitty didn't respond for what seemed like forever. Just as Jesse's heart began to sink with rejection she looked up and stared into his eyes. "Jesse, a lot has happened to both of us over the last week. It seems like we experienced the extremes in both directions. I think we've been--- carried away with our emotions."
Jesse's heart sank. He couldn't help looking away. He released her hands and slowly turned and took a few steps from her. "I guess you're right." His voice was broken and his shoulders slumped.
Knowing what he was feeling, Kitty jumped off the bed and stood in front of him. "Jesse, look at me." She placed her hands on the sides of his face and forced his empty eyes to meet hers. "Jesse, I fell in love with you the first time I met you but I knew there was no room in your life for me. You were happy and that was enough for me. I truly was content just being your friend. With everything that happened now, I know that I could never be that content again." She smiled as Jesse's eyes slowly began to sparkle with renewed life. She moved her hands to his shoulders as she felt him place his hands on her hips. "I love you, Jess. More than anything I want us to work out. I know we have to take it slow; rushing will only cause problems we won't want to deal with. I just hope that some day you can love me as much as you loved Emma."
Jesse's smile was incredible. He pulled her into a hug that he never wanted to end. He held her close as his voice was a mere whisper in her ear. "Kitty, I---I don't know what to say. You've made me so happy."
Pulling away Kitty looked up at him. "There's just one thing."
"Anything. Whatever you want."
"Even though we're taking it slow, just once in a while can you---um, kiss me the way you did last night?" She saw a sudden change in Jesse's eyes that almost scared her. They went from light and smiling to dark and deep with desire. She found that she was being slowly drawn toward them and there was nothing she could do as she felt herself falling helplessly into their depths.
Jesse slowly laced his fingers in her hair and secured her head in his grasp. His other hand slowly caressed her back as it found its place. Holding her tenderly and firmly he lowered his head and captured her lips with his. The soft kiss deepened and soon they were both passionately carried away with the joy and closeness they felt. Gasping for air as they reluctantly pulled apart, Jesse hugged her and whispered, "I love you."
After a joyfully loud dinner and a very riotous bed time the adults of the mansion were finally left to themselves for the night. "What shall we do for your last night with us?" asked Ororo.
"We usually get to hit a club when we're here. Let's do that." Shalimar offered.
The professor turned in after his tiring week. Hank returned to experiments he had running. Scott and Jean had someone to care for now. Evie was exhausted and Adam wanted nothing more than to rest with her in his arms. The others piled into the van and headed out for the night.
The club was loud. Energy flowed from every corner as the group spent the evening drinking and dancing and laughing together. None of the couples missed an opportunity to slow dance. Even Jubilee, who went along, found a different partner for each one.
As the night drew to a close and the final dance was announced, Jesse took Kitty's hand. "How about a last dance before I have to go tomorrow?"
"Only if you promise me you'll come back for more," she whispered in his ear as he embraced her.
"I love you, Kitty. I know way down deep that this is right. I belong right here, in your arms. Tell me you'll stay in mine." Jesse kissed her neck.
"I promise to always hold you, Jess, as long as you promise to always come back." She looked into his eyes for the briefest of moments before they were lost in the music, in the dance, in each other's arms and in their kiss; a kiss which held the promise of a lifetime of tomorrows.
The End
