Disclaimer: I don't own Mutant X or the X Men.
Chapter 11
Early the next morning news began to circulate about Evie being in the med lab. Everyone was anxiously awaiting any news. Bren, Shal and Jess all spent time visiting the lab and bringing up information to the others.
Jesse anxiously waited for Kitty to come down to breakfast. When Jubilee showed up alone, he questioned her. "She found out you were here," she sadly reported. "She said she had some important things to do and would skip breakfast. I'm not sure what she's up to. I'm sorry, Jess." She hugged him and just watched as he left the kitchen and went out into the garden.
As Kitty approached the mahogany doors, she heard Come in, Kitty. I've been waiting for you. Phasing through she walked over and sat on the desk in front of the professor. Kitty was the only one who could get away with such informal behavior in his office. She often went to talk to him when she was troubled. He always seemed to know just what to and not to say. She sat silently for a moment as she tried to gather her thoughts. "Professor, why am I having such a hard time making this decision?"
Charles smiled at her forlorn appearance. "Child, you know in your heart the decision is made. It was made long before the question was asked."
"Then why can't I answer him? What am I so afraid of? I mean, I know that he loves me. I know that he'd be a good husband. Can I be a good wife? He told me he wanted to give me his world. He said he wanted me in his world. How can I claim to love him if I'm not willing to give up my world for him? --- But --- I can't just leave. I have a life here. I have responsibilities. My parents sent me here to learn about who I am. Oh, Professor, what am I going to do?" She stopped her rambling and began to cry.
Charles took her hands in his as he sat in front of her. "My dear, you have always been the only one who consistently looked to me for guidance and direction. The others listened to my instruction and heeded my commands but you always needed more from me. You quickly became more than a student. You have always looked for my permission and approval. In return you accepted me as a father in your daily life in place of your own, who could not always be here for you. I have proudly watched as you grew into a beautiful young woman. You learned to accept yourself and your gift and quickly became an example for the younger children in the house. You learned and trained until you were able to surpass expectation. You are and will always be a valued member of my X Men." He wiped her tears as she smiled at him. "Marrying a man whom I know will make you very happy is relief and blessing to my soul. Jesse is a good man and he loves you with his entire being. I would not allow anything less for you. What you are failing to understand is that giving him your world is not the same as giving up your world. You will never give up your world. You will simply allow him to become a part of it. You freely offered it to him when you selflessly gave all you were to help him through his darkest hour, just as he is now able to freely offer you his. Only by embracing that which the other offers will you find true fulfillment in yourselves. You see, you don't lose your world. It just becomes complete."
Kitty sat quietly for a moment as she processed the wisdom he was trying to impart to her. Smiling she jumped down from the desk and moved to sit on his lap as she did when she was very young. "Professor, what would I ever do without you?" she whispered as she embraced him.
"You can never be too far from me to return and sit upon my desk whenever you feel the need." He embraced her as he heard her chuckle.
"Thank you, professor." Kitty moved to stand in front of him then leaned over to kiss him before she turned and ran phasing out of his office.
The day around the mansion broke into full swing as everyone attended to their normal routines except for the occasional check-ins on the progress in the med lab. Adam and Evie waited out the time as the contractions became more evident and regular. Comfort was slowly losing ground to painful apprehension. Jean helped Evie not to project the more intense contractions. Hank engaged Adam in many conversations to help distract him as they waited for the child to arrive.
Brennan and Shalimar participated in Logan's morning self-defense class, modeling many techniques. The younger children enjoyed seeing the slim blonde be able to best their formidable teacher as she countered an attack and landed him flat on the floor.
Jesse tried to stay away from everyone inside. He couldn't concentrate to be very helpful so he just walked aimlessly around the grounds. Suddenly the sound of small explosions pulled his attention to the far edge of the property. Going out to investigate he found Remy blasting objects in target practice. He watched in awe at the precision at which the man worked using subtle almost imperceptible movements. Though a very well built man, the force of power was not dependant on the strength in his arm as much as the power in his charge. Jesse realized that much like Brennan, this man could cause a great deal of destruction without even breaking a sweat.
Jesse slowly made his presence known as Remy seemed to be taking a break. "I'm glad we're friends. I'd hate to see what would happen if you shot me while I massed. I'd probably end up in a million pieces."
"Gambit will try to be careful the next time we fight side by side. Maybe you just try to stay to the back to be safe, non?"
Jesse chuckled slightly as he sat on a rock.
"No news from de lab, yet?" Remy eyed Jesse, knowing some of what was going on. The mansion is, after all, not that big. News and gossip travel faster than speeding bullets.
"No. Hank said we would probably have to wait for this afternoon."
Remy watched as Jesse through some small stones against a tree. Smiling he pulled a card and blasted Jesse's next throw, making it explode right before it hit its target. When Jesse turned he just shrugged and moved to his side. Putting a hand on Jesse's shoulder Remy tried to help. "De petite love you. Don' doubt it."
"I know but maybe I'm rushing her. Maybe she's not sure, yet."
"If dere's one ting, Remy knows better dan mos' is de face of a woman in love. For years now, I watch as she grew up and interact with the people around her. When you came, she changed. Always careful to hide the look but Remy catch it. Now dat you're together she's happier than ever befor'. Never doubt her love for you."
"I did something to her. She's avoiding me. Just when I think she's close, I turn and she's not there."
"You only confuse her. She need time to understand. You'll see. Everyting be jus' fine."
Kitty was in her room when Jubilee came in to change after lunch. "Hey, Chica."
"Hi, Jubes," Kitty's voice was pathetic.
"Come on, Kitty. Why are you torturing yourself and everyone else? You know you want him. Where's the problem?" Jubilee walked over and bounced herself down on Kitty's bed.
"It's just not as clear cut for me. You'll never understand. Bobby's an X Man."
"What does that have to do with anything?" She tried to soften her voice to not emphasis her confusion.
"If you two decide to marry, all you have to do is move your stuff to a new room. I have to come to grips with moving out." Kitty put her head down and began to cry again.
"Oh, Kitty, is that what all this is really about? You're afraid to leave."
Sitting up suddenly, Kitty replied, "I am not afraid. I just never actually considered it until he asked me." Kitty put her head down again. "Now, I've pushed him away. He's probably so hurt, he never wants to see me again."
"Oh stop being so mellow-dramatic." Jubilee reprimanded. "He's been moping around all morning because you've been avoiding him. He hasn't changed his mind. He's just waiting for you to make up yours."
Just then, Jean brushed Kitty's mind. Kitty, Evie is ready to deliver soon. I thought you would want to be one of the ones waiting here.
Kitty closed her eyes to answer. Thanks, Jean. I'll be there in a while. When she opened her eyes she saw Jubilee waiting expectantly. "Evie's ready. Jean wanted to know if I wanted to be there."
"And do you? You know, he'll be waiting for you."
Taking a deep breath she replied, "Yeah, I know." Taking Jubilee's hand she looked at her now and tried to smile. "Just promise me one thing."
"What's that?"
"When I move out, you won't just move Bobby in until he gives you a ring."
Smiling brightly, Jubilee hugged her. "I just hope he gets the hint soon. I'm so happy for you. You're gonna make the most beautiful bride."
"That's if the groom is still willing." Kitty moved to her dresser and began to comb her hair.
In the lab, Evie's contractions were closer and stronger than before. Jean and Hank prepared for the delivery as Adam stood by and held her hand telling her how much he loved her.
Out in the hall Brennan watched Shalimar pace back and forth. "Shal, all you're going to do is wear a grove in the floor. Come sit with me."
"I can't. The feral in me won't let me hold still." She began to pace faster.
Brennan got an idea. He stood at the window, closed his eyes and concentrated on Jean.
Yes, Brennan?
When he heard her answer he opened his eyes and looked at her. Jean, Shal's going crazy out here. Do I have time to take her for a run?
Jean chuckled and everyone in the lab noticed she was looking toward the hall. Take her into the danger room. You'll be closer. Program 23 has a track she can run.
Thanks. He smiled then turned and grabbed Shalimar's arm. "Come on. Let's run."
"Run? Run where?" she questioned him as they turned the corner and left Jesse alone in the hall.
"Jean---," Evie could sense beyond herself enough to know there was a problem.
"Everything's ok, Evie. Shalimar is just having a little trouble managing her feral excitement. Brennan's taking her into the danger room for a little bit.
Evie turned to Adam, "She needs to be in here when the time comes." Adam just smiled and kissed her.
A while later, Kitty slowly turned the corner and saw Jesse looking through the lab window. Taking a deep breath she spoke softly. "I hope it doesn't take this long for our first child to come." Kitty smiled slightly as Jesse spun around to face her. "That is, if you still want me?" She walked slowly toward him.
Jesse couldn't believe his ears. He moved to stand in front of her. Was she really there? He slowly reached out to touch her face. "Kitty," he whispered. "Does this mean---?" He looked into her eyes and couldn't finish.
"Yes." She smiled at him. Instantly she felt his arms around her. "I'm so sorry for hurting you before, Jess. I just got --- scared."
Holding her tightly he spoke into her hair. "I know, Baby. I don't want you scared. I love you so much. I only want to make you happy." He moved away and looked again into her eyes. "We can handle this however you want. I don't care. I just want to be with you."
Just then, Shalimar and Brennan came rushing back in taking both their attention. "What's wrong?" Kitty asked concerned.
Brennan watched as Shalimar went into the lab and then turned to answer. "Jean called us. The baby's coming." He smiled as Kitty moved closer to him. He hadn't seen her since the night he had to buy her on the mission.
With one arm around Jesse, Kitty smiled and put her other arm around Brennan letting him know that everything was alright between them.
He gratefully leaned down and kissed her cheek then turned and waited for the tell tale cry of an infant.
Once inside Shalimar moved to Evie's side and took her hand. Evie smiled at her until another contraction hit. Soon the baby had crowned. Everyone got excited as they encouraged Evie through one last contraction.
With only the slightest help from the attending physicians a beautiful baby began to cry. Tears filled the room as Hank spoke. "Well, my stars, her voice is most impressive." Handing the child to her mother he went on, "I believe, madam, your daughter would like to say 'Hello'."
"Oh, Adam," Evie panted, "a little girl."
With tears in his eyes Adam watched his wife and daughter for a long moment. Then he kissed his wife and his child. "I love you so much. You were wonderful and now --- she's as beautiful as you are." Adam took the crying child and cradled her close to his chest. Almost instantly she quieted and relaxed in his strong arms.
"Well, someone knows her daddy's arms already." Jean smiled at the family. "I feel sorry for the young man who tries to take her out of them."
"Never," Adam's head snapped up to face her. "He may come in but she will never leave."
Shalimar reached out and laid her hand over the baby's chest. For just an instant her eyes turned golden and a small purr was heard. As quick as they turned, the brown was back but Adam noticed and smiled as he laid his hand over Shal's in unspoken acceptance. He was the leader of Mutant X and a father to all of them but together they were her pack and she was their protector. This was her way of making her connection and silent vow. She walked as if in a dream as she went back to the door.
When the door opened they couldn't hear any crying and Shalimar's expression confused them. Brennan touched her shoulder as she got closer. "Shal, what's wrong?"
"Oh, Brennan, it was incredible. She's so beautiful." She moved into his arms and began to cry.
Concerned, Jesse moved closer. "Is everything --- ok?" He smiled when he saw her nod her head.
"A girl. Evie had a girl," Kitty cried. "Jesse, that's so wonderful." She reached up and hugged him.
As soon as everyone was presentable Jean went to the door to allow them to enter. Shalimar and Brennan went to the far side of the bed and kissed Evie. "Shal, said she was beautiful but that was an understatement." Brennan's voice was soft as he reached to touch her hand.
Jesse stood on the closer side and kissed Evie. "She's gorgeous," was all he could breathe out.
Kitty had gone to stand at the side with Jean in order to allow the family their time. Evie knew she came in with Jesse and sensed that she had made her decision. "Kitty," Evie smiled at her, "You are part of this family, now. You belong at Jesse's side." She reached out for her to take her hand. "Come and meet Nadene."
As she came closer, Jesse proudly smiled at her and pulled the ring from his pocket. "And this belongs on your finger." He took her hand and put the ring in place then kissed the finger on which it sat.
"So those were your big plans, very nice." Brennan smiled as he put his arm around Shalimar.
"Well, are you going to make this easy on me and make it a double wedding?" Adam knowingly revealed their secret.
Jesse turned a questioning stare at Brennan. "Is that why you rushed home yesterday?"
"Yeah, well, I finally realized what you were trying to tell me. With all the excitement of welcoming Nadene, we just didn't get a chance to tell anyone."
Jean and Hank approached them and congratulated all. "This is so wonderful. We'll have so much fun." Jean hugged Shalimar. "This means another trip to Anna Claire's."
Everyone laughed and commented as Jesse noticed Kitty look down and blush.
Hank's voice suddenly boomed with authority. "Alright, we have much to look forward to but right now my patients need their rest. Everyone out until after dinner. The professor has just informed me that they are about to have dinner now. Jean, please see that Adam and Evie are brought a proper meal here. The rest of you may begin to inform everyone of all the latest information. Please do not forget to include a birth announcement for Nadene."
"Never. She tops the list," Jesse informed him as they all began to disperse.
Everyone in the dining room fell silent the moment they saw them come in. "What news do you have for us?" asked the professor.
"Nadene Kane has arrived." Kitty joyously announced with all the pertinent details.
After everyone settled from the rejoicing, Charles asked again, "And?"
"And Kitty has agreed to marry me," Jesse offered proudly.
Rejoicing again filled the room. When it quieted somewhat, Charles smiled at the notion that the announcements were not yet complete. Turning a knowing smile toward Brennan, he met his eyes. "And?"
Silence fell instantly. No one expected any more.
Brennan, already having one arm around Shalimar, pulled her into a full embrace as he announced, "Shalimar and I are getting married, too."
The cheers in the room were deafening. The adults moved around the room to congratulate the couples. After a louder than normal dinner, and a riotous bedtime routine for the children, the adults went to meet Nadene.
Charles was first to enter. "Allow me to welcome Miss Nadene." He shook Adam's hand and looked at the sleeping child in her mother's arms. "She truly is a marvelous gift and as radiant as you, my dear Evie." He moved aside as others began to come in, each hugging and kissing and oohhing and ahhing over the infant.
Scott and Jean walked in with Thomas. As they approached, Scott told his son, "Look, we have a new friend for you." Everyone stopped to see what Thomas would do. He leaned forward in his father's arms to better see the sleeping child. Reaching a curious hand out and touching the wrapped bundle, he smiled and looked closely at her. With obvious suddenness, Nadene opened her little eyes and gazed back at him.
Evie and Jean exchanged glances, feeling something had happened. Their husbands were not completely unaware. "Honey?" Scott questioned warily.
"Um, I'm not sure but I think he just spoke to her." Jean looked from her son to her husband.
"Sweetheart?" Adam likewise questioned.
"I felt something when she opened her eyes." Looking to her husband she added, "I think she answered him."
"You are both quite right." Everyone immediately turned to the professor. "It would seem that Thomas formally introduced himself."
Breaking the silence of awe in the room Scott smiled as he looked back at the babies, "The first in what, I'm sure will be a long line of suitors."
"Can we get through these two weddings first, before you put another on my plate, please." Adam reached a loving hand out to cover his child.
Everyone laughed and began talking wedding talk as they all were finally shooed from the med lab by a very protective doctor. Once alone, Evie asked, "Hank, could they have really 'spoken'?"
He moved closer and loving place a huge hand gently on the child's head. "I do not know. Thomas has never shown any sign of mutation. I would not expect any for a few years yet. Given the strength of your and Jean's telepathy, it would not surprise me to find it in both children. It would surprise me if it began now. We will just have to wait and watch them closely. I can scan them both tomorrow and see if there are any changes. It is most likely that they just sense kinship with another child as all children do. Now, you must all get some sleep. It has been a long day. I will see you in the morning."
tbc
Chapter 11
Early the next morning news began to circulate about Evie being in the med lab. Everyone was anxiously awaiting any news. Bren, Shal and Jess all spent time visiting the lab and bringing up information to the others.
Jesse anxiously waited for Kitty to come down to breakfast. When Jubilee showed up alone, he questioned her. "She found out you were here," she sadly reported. "She said she had some important things to do and would skip breakfast. I'm not sure what she's up to. I'm sorry, Jess." She hugged him and just watched as he left the kitchen and went out into the garden.
As Kitty approached the mahogany doors, she heard Come in, Kitty. I've been waiting for you. Phasing through she walked over and sat on the desk in front of the professor. Kitty was the only one who could get away with such informal behavior in his office. She often went to talk to him when she was troubled. He always seemed to know just what to and not to say. She sat silently for a moment as she tried to gather her thoughts. "Professor, why am I having such a hard time making this decision?"
Charles smiled at her forlorn appearance. "Child, you know in your heart the decision is made. It was made long before the question was asked."
"Then why can't I answer him? What am I so afraid of? I mean, I know that he loves me. I know that he'd be a good husband. Can I be a good wife? He told me he wanted to give me his world. He said he wanted me in his world. How can I claim to love him if I'm not willing to give up my world for him? --- But --- I can't just leave. I have a life here. I have responsibilities. My parents sent me here to learn about who I am. Oh, Professor, what am I going to do?" She stopped her rambling and began to cry.
Charles took her hands in his as he sat in front of her. "My dear, you have always been the only one who consistently looked to me for guidance and direction. The others listened to my instruction and heeded my commands but you always needed more from me. You quickly became more than a student. You have always looked for my permission and approval. In return you accepted me as a father in your daily life in place of your own, who could not always be here for you. I have proudly watched as you grew into a beautiful young woman. You learned to accept yourself and your gift and quickly became an example for the younger children in the house. You learned and trained until you were able to surpass expectation. You are and will always be a valued member of my X Men." He wiped her tears as she smiled at him. "Marrying a man whom I know will make you very happy is relief and blessing to my soul. Jesse is a good man and he loves you with his entire being. I would not allow anything less for you. What you are failing to understand is that giving him your world is not the same as giving up your world. You will never give up your world. You will simply allow him to become a part of it. You freely offered it to him when you selflessly gave all you were to help him through his darkest hour, just as he is now able to freely offer you his. Only by embracing that which the other offers will you find true fulfillment in yourselves. You see, you don't lose your world. It just becomes complete."
Kitty sat quietly for a moment as she processed the wisdom he was trying to impart to her. Smiling she jumped down from the desk and moved to sit on his lap as she did when she was very young. "Professor, what would I ever do without you?" she whispered as she embraced him.
"You can never be too far from me to return and sit upon my desk whenever you feel the need." He embraced her as he heard her chuckle.
"Thank you, professor." Kitty moved to stand in front of him then leaned over to kiss him before she turned and ran phasing out of his office.
The day around the mansion broke into full swing as everyone attended to their normal routines except for the occasional check-ins on the progress in the med lab. Adam and Evie waited out the time as the contractions became more evident and regular. Comfort was slowly losing ground to painful apprehension. Jean helped Evie not to project the more intense contractions. Hank engaged Adam in many conversations to help distract him as they waited for the child to arrive.
Brennan and Shalimar participated in Logan's morning self-defense class, modeling many techniques. The younger children enjoyed seeing the slim blonde be able to best their formidable teacher as she countered an attack and landed him flat on the floor.
Jesse tried to stay away from everyone inside. He couldn't concentrate to be very helpful so he just walked aimlessly around the grounds. Suddenly the sound of small explosions pulled his attention to the far edge of the property. Going out to investigate he found Remy blasting objects in target practice. He watched in awe at the precision at which the man worked using subtle almost imperceptible movements. Though a very well built man, the force of power was not dependant on the strength in his arm as much as the power in his charge. Jesse realized that much like Brennan, this man could cause a great deal of destruction without even breaking a sweat.
Jesse slowly made his presence known as Remy seemed to be taking a break. "I'm glad we're friends. I'd hate to see what would happen if you shot me while I massed. I'd probably end up in a million pieces."
"Gambit will try to be careful the next time we fight side by side. Maybe you just try to stay to the back to be safe, non?"
Jesse chuckled slightly as he sat on a rock.
"No news from de lab, yet?" Remy eyed Jesse, knowing some of what was going on. The mansion is, after all, not that big. News and gossip travel faster than speeding bullets.
"No. Hank said we would probably have to wait for this afternoon."
Remy watched as Jesse through some small stones against a tree. Smiling he pulled a card and blasted Jesse's next throw, making it explode right before it hit its target. When Jesse turned he just shrugged and moved to his side. Putting a hand on Jesse's shoulder Remy tried to help. "De petite love you. Don' doubt it."
"I know but maybe I'm rushing her. Maybe she's not sure, yet."
"If dere's one ting, Remy knows better dan mos' is de face of a woman in love. For years now, I watch as she grew up and interact with the people around her. When you came, she changed. Always careful to hide the look but Remy catch it. Now dat you're together she's happier than ever befor'. Never doubt her love for you."
"I did something to her. She's avoiding me. Just when I think she's close, I turn and she's not there."
"You only confuse her. She need time to understand. You'll see. Everyting be jus' fine."
Kitty was in her room when Jubilee came in to change after lunch. "Hey, Chica."
"Hi, Jubes," Kitty's voice was pathetic.
"Come on, Kitty. Why are you torturing yourself and everyone else? You know you want him. Where's the problem?" Jubilee walked over and bounced herself down on Kitty's bed.
"It's just not as clear cut for me. You'll never understand. Bobby's an X Man."
"What does that have to do with anything?" She tried to soften her voice to not emphasis her confusion.
"If you two decide to marry, all you have to do is move your stuff to a new room. I have to come to grips with moving out." Kitty put her head down and began to cry again.
"Oh, Kitty, is that what all this is really about? You're afraid to leave."
Sitting up suddenly, Kitty replied, "I am not afraid. I just never actually considered it until he asked me." Kitty put her head down again. "Now, I've pushed him away. He's probably so hurt, he never wants to see me again."
"Oh stop being so mellow-dramatic." Jubilee reprimanded. "He's been moping around all morning because you've been avoiding him. He hasn't changed his mind. He's just waiting for you to make up yours."
Just then, Jean brushed Kitty's mind. Kitty, Evie is ready to deliver soon. I thought you would want to be one of the ones waiting here.
Kitty closed her eyes to answer. Thanks, Jean. I'll be there in a while. When she opened her eyes she saw Jubilee waiting expectantly. "Evie's ready. Jean wanted to know if I wanted to be there."
"And do you? You know, he'll be waiting for you."
Taking a deep breath she replied, "Yeah, I know." Taking Jubilee's hand she looked at her now and tried to smile. "Just promise me one thing."
"What's that?"
"When I move out, you won't just move Bobby in until he gives you a ring."
Smiling brightly, Jubilee hugged her. "I just hope he gets the hint soon. I'm so happy for you. You're gonna make the most beautiful bride."
"That's if the groom is still willing." Kitty moved to her dresser and began to comb her hair.
In the lab, Evie's contractions were closer and stronger than before. Jean and Hank prepared for the delivery as Adam stood by and held her hand telling her how much he loved her.
Out in the hall Brennan watched Shalimar pace back and forth. "Shal, all you're going to do is wear a grove in the floor. Come sit with me."
"I can't. The feral in me won't let me hold still." She began to pace faster.
Brennan got an idea. He stood at the window, closed his eyes and concentrated on Jean.
Yes, Brennan?
When he heard her answer he opened his eyes and looked at her. Jean, Shal's going crazy out here. Do I have time to take her for a run?
Jean chuckled and everyone in the lab noticed she was looking toward the hall. Take her into the danger room. You'll be closer. Program 23 has a track she can run.
Thanks. He smiled then turned and grabbed Shalimar's arm. "Come on. Let's run."
"Run? Run where?" she questioned him as they turned the corner and left Jesse alone in the hall.
"Jean---," Evie could sense beyond herself enough to know there was a problem.
"Everything's ok, Evie. Shalimar is just having a little trouble managing her feral excitement. Brennan's taking her into the danger room for a little bit.
Evie turned to Adam, "She needs to be in here when the time comes." Adam just smiled and kissed her.
A while later, Kitty slowly turned the corner and saw Jesse looking through the lab window. Taking a deep breath she spoke softly. "I hope it doesn't take this long for our first child to come." Kitty smiled slightly as Jesse spun around to face her. "That is, if you still want me?" She walked slowly toward him.
Jesse couldn't believe his ears. He moved to stand in front of her. Was she really there? He slowly reached out to touch her face. "Kitty," he whispered. "Does this mean---?" He looked into her eyes and couldn't finish.
"Yes." She smiled at him. Instantly she felt his arms around her. "I'm so sorry for hurting you before, Jess. I just got --- scared."
Holding her tightly he spoke into her hair. "I know, Baby. I don't want you scared. I love you so much. I only want to make you happy." He moved away and looked again into her eyes. "We can handle this however you want. I don't care. I just want to be with you."
Just then, Shalimar and Brennan came rushing back in taking both their attention. "What's wrong?" Kitty asked concerned.
Brennan watched as Shalimar went into the lab and then turned to answer. "Jean called us. The baby's coming." He smiled as Kitty moved closer to him. He hadn't seen her since the night he had to buy her on the mission.
With one arm around Jesse, Kitty smiled and put her other arm around Brennan letting him know that everything was alright between them.
He gratefully leaned down and kissed her cheek then turned and waited for the tell tale cry of an infant.
Once inside Shalimar moved to Evie's side and took her hand. Evie smiled at her until another contraction hit. Soon the baby had crowned. Everyone got excited as they encouraged Evie through one last contraction.
With only the slightest help from the attending physicians a beautiful baby began to cry. Tears filled the room as Hank spoke. "Well, my stars, her voice is most impressive." Handing the child to her mother he went on, "I believe, madam, your daughter would like to say 'Hello'."
"Oh, Adam," Evie panted, "a little girl."
With tears in his eyes Adam watched his wife and daughter for a long moment. Then he kissed his wife and his child. "I love you so much. You were wonderful and now --- she's as beautiful as you are." Adam took the crying child and cradled her close to his chest. Almost instantly she quieted and relaxed in his strong arms.
"Well, someone knows her daddy's arms already." Jean smiled at the family. "I feel sorry for the young man who tries to take her out of them."
"Never," Adam's head snapped up to face her. "He may come in but she will never leave."
Shalimar reached out and laid her hand over the baby's chest. For just an instant her eyes turned golden and a small purr was heard. As quick as they turned, the brown was back but Adam noticed and smiled as he laid his hand over Shal's in unspoken acceptance. He was the leader of Mutant X and a father to all of them but together they were her pack and she was their protector. This was her way of making her connection and silent vow. She walked as if in a dream as she went back to the door.
When the door opened they couldn't hear any crying and Shalimar's expression confused them. Brennan touched her shoulder as she got closer. "Shal, what's wrong?"
"Oh, Brennan, it was incredible. She's so beautiful." She moved into his arms and began to cry.
Concerned, Jesse moved closer. "Is everything --- ok?" He smiled when he saw her nod her head.
"A girl. Evie had a girl," Kitty cried. "Jesse, that's so wonderful." She reached up and hugged him.
As soon as everyone was presentable Jean went to the door to allow them to enter. Shalimar and Brennan went to the far side of the bed and kissed Evie. "Shal, said she was beautiful but that was an understatement." Brennan's voice was soft as he reached to touch her hand.
Jesse stood on the closer side and kissed Evie. "She's gorgeous," was all he could breathe out.
Kitty had gone to stand at the side with Jean in order to allow the family their time. Evie knew she came in with Jesse and sensed that she had made her decision. "Kitty," Evie smiled at her, "You are part of this family, now. You belong at Jesse's side." She reached out for her to take her hand. "Come and meet Nadene."
As she came closer, Jesse proudly smiled at her and pulled the ring from his pocket. "And this belongs on your finger." He took her hand and put the ring in place then kissed the finger on which it sat.
"So those were your big plans, very nice." Brennan smiled as he put his arm around Shalimar.
"Well, are you going to make this easy on me and make it a double wedding?" Adam knowingly revealed their secret.
Jesse turned a questioning stare at Brennan. "Is that why you rushed home yesterday?"
"Yeah, well, I finally realized what you were trying to tell me. With all the excitement of welcoming Nadene, we just didn't get a chance to tell anyone."
Jean and Hank approached them and congratulated all. "This is so wonderful. We'll have so much fun." Jean hugged Shalimar. "This means another trip to Anna Claire's."
Everyone laughed and commented as Jesse noticed Kitty look down and blush.
Hank's voice suddenly boomed with authority. "Alright, we have much to look forward to but right now my patients need their rest. Everyone out until after dinner. The professor has just informed me that they are about to have dinner now. Jean, please see that Adam and Evie are brought a proper meal here. The rest of you may begin to inform everyone of all the latest information. Please do not forget to include a birth announcement for Nadene."
"Never. She tops the list," Jesse informed him as they all began to disperse.
Everyone in the dining room fell silent the moment they saw them come in. "What news do you have for us?" asked the professor.
"Nadene Kane has arrived." Kitty joyously announced with all the pertinent details.
After everyone settled from the rejoicing, Charles asked again, "And?"
"And Kitty has agreed to marry me," Jesse offered proudly.
Rejoicing again filled the room. When it quieted somewhat, Charles smiled at the notion that the announcements were not yet complete. Turning a knowing smile toward Brennan, he met his eyes. "And?"
Silence fell instantly. No one expected any more.
Brennan, already having one arm around Shalimar, pulled her into a full embrace as he announced, "Shalimar and I are getting married, too."
The cheers in the room were deafening. The adults moved around the room to congratulate the couples. After a louder than normal dinner, and a riotous bedtime routine for the children, the adults went to meet Nadene.
Charles was first to enter. "Allow me to welcome Miss Nadene." He shook Adam's hand and looked at the sleeping child in her mother's arms. "She truly is a marvelous gift and as radiant as you, my dear Evie." He moved aside as others began to come in, each hugging and kissing and oohhing and ahhing over the infant.
Scott and Jean walked in with Thomas. As they approached, Scott told his son, "Look, we have a new friend for you." Everyone stopped to see what Thomas would do. He leaned forward in his father's arms to better see the sleeping child. Reaching a curious hand out and touching the wrapped bundle, he smiled and looked closely at her. With obvious suddenness, Nadene opened her little eyes and gazed back at him.
Evie and Jean exchanged glances, feeling something had happened. Their husbands were not completely unaware. "Honey?" Scott questioned warily.
"Um, I'm not sure but I think he just spoke to her." Jean looked from her son to her husband.
"Sweetheart?" Adam likewise questioned.
"I felt something when she opened her eyes." Looking to her husband she added, "I think she answered him."
"You are both quite right." Everyone immediately turned to the professor. "It would seem that Thomas formally introduced himself."
Breaking the silence of awe in the room Scott smiled as he looked back at the babies, "The first in what, I'm sure will be a long line of suitors."
"Can we get through these two weddings first, before you put another on my plate, please." Adam reached a loving hand out to cover his child.
Everyone laughed and began talking wedding talk as they all were finally shooed from the med lab by a very protective doctor. Once alone, Evie asked, "Hank, could they have really 'spoken'?"
He moved closer and loving place a huge hand gently on the child's head. "I do not know. Thomas has never shown any sign of mutation. I would not expect any for a few years yet. Given the strength of your and Jean's telepathy, it would not surprise me to find it in both children. It would surprise me if it began now. We will just have to wait and watch them closely. I can scan them both tomorrow and see if there are any changes. It is most likely that they just sense kinship with another child as all children do. Now, you must all get some sleep. It has been a long day. I will see you in the morning."
tbc