Chapter 6 – Ororo's Thoughts

Ororo's Room, the Institute, 10:25 p.m.

She could still hear the girls down the hall, screaming and talking, bouncing around like monkeys. 'Those girls are growing up right in front of me. New problems, new experiences, different people, and strange responsibilities. And, on top of that, they are mutants.' Ororo thought, laying on her bed in the dark.

'To look at them tonight, having boy troubles, just like normal girls do,' Ororo mused, 'it's hard to believe that there are people out there that would hate them just for being born.' Storms brow creased at the thought.

'How could you hate someone like Jean? She is one of the most caring children here; hardly a child anymore, but a young woman. Just the other day she was trying to help young Freddie with his confidence, telling him how good he was doing with his summer studies, and how proud she was he was catching up so quickly. That boy nearly burst with pride.'

'And poor Rouge, how does she carry on? That girl has more heart than ten men, realizing everyday she could hurt or kill the next person she touches. And not being able to touch another living person...unimaginable. Sometimes I have to go and hug Logan just to feel someone touch me. Great strength in that beautiful girl.'

'My little kitten, Katherine. The sweet girl from the Valley turned computer nerd. Goddess, that girl would take every stray dog or cat that wandered onto this compound if Charles had not put his foot down on the 'No Furry Pets' rule. Charles mentioned just the other day that he may have her teach an 'Intro to Computers' class next year, if her workload is not to great. This about a girl who had never touched a computer until 3 years ago.'

'Our resident firecracker, Jubilee. Her cocky little 'I can do it, I don't need your help' attitude. Goddess help her, I first thought that her mutant power was 'not breathing while she talked'. She has a kind heart and an intelligent mind, not to mention she's a stunner. I'm surprised shy Sam Guthrie had the nerve to ask her out like she told me last night. She was so excited, I felt flushed just listening to her.'

'Sweet little tomboy Paige, our southern belle. Coping with an early onset of her mutant powers so well, after watching and learning from her big brother Sam. She adores that boy. Last week, Storm had noticed Sam had just dumped his socks and underwear into the top drawer of his dresser. She didn't say anything, but two days later she had seen Paige sneak into his room and fold his clothes, all of them. I wonder if he even noticed?'

'Poor Rahne. Struggling with young love, something every girl goes thru. She will make it, I'm sure. She may be a were-wolf, but she has the heart and soul of a lioness. Perhaps next week she would call Moira MacTaggert , Rahne's guardian, and friend to the Institute, and let her know what was going on, have her call Rahne. She would be happy to hear from her.'

'My girls, all growing up,' thought Ororo as she yawned, 'they have a long road ahead......I almost pity any man that gets in their way!"

Ororo smiled to herself, and gently slipped into slumber.

End – Chapter 7 – The Guys Talk