Disclaimer: Don't own. Wanna own . Don't own.
Xavier Institute
Westchester New York
"I think its sweet the way he's so protective," Ororo's best friend said, plugging a curling iron into the socket beside the mirrored vanity. They were in Ororo's attic loft, preparing for a celebratory dinner in honor of Storm's recovery. Their current topic of conversation was Wolverine, a topic Ororo had been trying to avoid, but Jean had doggedly pursued. "I mean you did just almost die, Ororo. Can't blame the guy for being a little overzealous."
"Died." Ororo corrected absently, pulling a long, slinky black dress from the back of her closet.
"Excuse me?"
"Died, Jean. I did not almost die, I died. I remember everything." Ororo laid the garment across the bed. Yes, that would do nicely, she thought.
"You remember dying?" Jean was staring at her like she had grown two heads.
"Of course. It is not something one does everyday, it tends to stick with you."
"Trust me, Ororo, I know. I've done it a few times myself. Let's face it , I do it so often it's almost an annual rotation. But not once have I ever remembered the experience. You do?"
"Yes. But if you do not mind, I would rather discuss it another time, sister." Ororo said, rubbing her temples. Her head was beginning to throb.
Jean was momentarily overwhelmed by a feeling of trepidation, and approached her friend with concern. "Are you feeling all right? Maybe we should postpone the celebration."
"No, I am fine, a bit weary from the days events is all. I am certain I will feel much better after a hot bath."
Jean seemed unconvinced, but refrained from saying so. She instead smiled and said, "You should wear your black strappy heels with that dress." Ororo grinned, having already pulled them from the closet. "What is they say about great minds" Jean teased. Their warm laughter and friendly chatter filled the sun drenched loft as they continued getting ready for the party and soon Jean forgot all about the feeling of unease that had settled over her.
Downstairs
"What do you suppose is keeping them?" Warren asked Scott and Logan as he approached from the dining hall where he and the others were awaiting the arrival of their guest of honor.
"Oh, you know women." Scott said. "Curl this, paint that."
Logan said nothing, his eyes on the staircase, waiting for 'Ro to emerge. He hadn't seen her in a few hours, and was beginning to wonder if she was ever coming down. He was about to climb up to her room and make sure she was all right when two slender silhouettes made their way to the top of the stairs.
Jean looked exceedingly lovely in her dark green sleeveless dress, flaming hair pulled in an elegant French knot but it was Ororo who held all three men riveted as she descended the staircase. Her hair was piled atop her head in organized disarray, held in place by an ornate black Japanese comb that Logan recognized as his Christmas gift to her some years ago, several snowy tendrils dancing over her shoulder. She was wearing a long black dress that clung to her body in all the right places, emphasizing the generous swell of her breasts and flat stomach. Thin spaghetti straps hugging her graceful shoulders, silk train flowing down to the floor in a ripple of shadow. Logan caught a flash of perfect mocha leg through the thigh high slit of her dress with each step she took.
Jean made some comment to her and Ororo turned to her friend revealing her gown's extraordinarily low cut, open back, and the silken texture of her bare skin.
SNIKT--
Wolverine's claws popped out of his knuckles, his body's involuntary reaction to her sensual appearance. Warren and Scott looked at him. He growled, forcibly retracting his claws.
"Perfectly understandable," Warren said, clearing his throat. "Is it hot in here or is it just her? I mean, me…just me?"
Wolverine glowered at him. He strode to the bottom of the staircase, holding his hand out for Ororo as she reached the last step. "Yer breathtaking', darlin'." he said with genuine appreciation, eyes traveling up and down her feminine form, lingering in all the places any red blooded man would linger.
Ororo smiled, sliding her hand into his. "Thank you, Logan. You look rather handsome yourself." He did at that, she mused. Dark coat over a snug black shirt and form fitting black pants, dark eyes glittering hungrily at her, his wild unruly hair giving him a 'just rolled out of bed', rakish air. Her heartbeat had increased two fold at the sight of him, her mind instantly remembering the feel of his strong arms around her, the tickle of his crisp chest hair against her cheek and the warm feeling she got in the pit of her stomach when he kissed her. If not for Jean's comment that all three men looked like deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming semi, Ororo would have stayed in her reverie for the rest of the evening.
"Shall we?" Scott said, linking his arm through his wife's and leading the way to the dining hall.
Once there Warren pulled the doors open with flourish, giving Ororo a polished bow as she passed. Wolverine snarled a warning to the other man, whose gaze remained momentarily locked with Storm's backside. Warren had keen instincts when it came to self preservation and immediately lifted his eyes from their resting place.
"Good decision," Betsy Braddock said with a wink as she stepped beside him, hand gliding down his wing. Warren returned Betsy's wink, settling his arm across her shoulders, following Scott, Jean , Logan and Ororo into the room.
Immediately upon Ororo's entrance the room erupted into loud applause, and as she moved through the room several whistles. She was unbelievably moved by her friends thoughtfulness, and obvious affection. The room was packed with her fellow X-Men and several students of the school, everyone of them standing and clapping.
"I do not know what to say. This is lovely." She told Charles when he reached their sides. The room was lit by several hanging chandeliers, tables covered with beautiful silk clothes, crystal glasses and champagne in the center of them all.
"You are not required to say anything, Ororo. This is a celebration in your honor, all you have to do is enjoy it." Charles replied.
"And enjoy it I shall." She laughed. It was good to hear her laugh, thought Logan. She needed this, needed to be reminded of the friends she still had, the ones who loved her, the ones that hadn't betrayed her trust. He clenched his jaw against his immediate anger, the same anger that rose every time Gumbo crossed his mind. He stifled it, intent on making tonight about 'Ro, and only about 'Ro. They took their seats beside Charles at the head table.
Charles tapped his glass, gaining the attention of all in the room. He held his glass in the air, towards Ororo as he spoke to the room, saying, "I was once very far away from my home, in a country that I had never before been in, traveling the world searching for others like me, for fellow mutants. Searching with only a vague design of the ideals that would later become the dream we all share today. What I found on this journey was a young pickpocket with a laughing spirit and tenacious determination, who became the living embodiment of my dream. Over the years I have learned many things from observing our beloved windrider. Ororo has taught me that everyone dreams, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was only an illusion, but the dreamers of the day, like her, are dangerous, for they act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible. So I want to say thank you, Ororo. Thank you for your inspiration, thank you for your strength, thank you for your courage and thank you above all else, for your unwavering loyalty."
A rousing cheer followed Xavier's speech, glasses raised high as the hall echoed with "Here-here's". Ororo was incredibly touched by Charles' words and her teammates overwhelming response. Before the room was overcome by blubbering emotions Beast said, "Now that our appetites have been sufficiently whet with emotional fodder, I suggest we partake of our dinners before they get too cold to enjoy." Another round of here-here's.
The meal progressed quickly, good conversation and laughter making the night move swiftly, and soon the champagne was flowing freely, "Time to turn this motha out!" Bobby Drake shouted, flying past their table on one of his ice-slides. His proclamation was met by several exuberant cheers. Jubilee hit the boom box she had brought in, sending a loud thumping rhythm through the room. Colossus and Sam began sliding tables to the walls, making a dance space on the floor.
"I believe that is my cue to exit," Charles said, rolling away from the table. "I don't know if I mentioned it earlier, Ororo, but you look stunning this evening." His voice held fatherly esteem and pride.
"Thank you, Charles. Do you really have to leave?" Ororo asked, holding onto his hand. She was loathe for him to go, enjoying his company, a privilege that was rare these busy days.
"I'm afraid I have a tremendous amount of work to do in the morning. You, however, should enjoy yourself. This is, after all, your party. See that she has a good evening, won't you , Logan."
Wolverine raised one dark eyebrow. Good ole Chuck, didn't miss a thing. "Sure thing, Chuck. My pleasure."
"Another drink?" Warren asked, tilting the champagne bottle and pouring into Ororo's glass before she responded. She smiled, raised her glass and sipped the bubbly liquid. "Mmmm. This is quite good. You should try some, Logan."
"No thanks, darlin'. I don't do the sissy drinks." His gaze rested on Scott who was in the process of swallowing a mouthful of what Logan had called a "sissy drink".
"You're a dick." Scott said.
"Charmer." Wolverine smiled wolfishly, baring his fangs.
"Boys." Jean's voice echoed in their minds, as well as in their ears. She gave Ororo a confidential look, saying, "The more I'm around men the more I like dogs."
"Much cuter," Betsy agreed.
"And cleaner," Kitty said coming from behind.
"Far more loyal," came Rogue's response. Ororo turned in her chair, watching the other woman approach through narrowed eyes. There was no doubt she was a lovely creature, with her gentle appearance, soft auburn hair and chocolate eyes, but Storm knew better than anyone appearances were simply that. They never revealed what lay beneath the surface, the skin of a lemon very similar to that of an orange, but the inside made all the difference.
"The question of loyalty could be raised with women as well," Storm said, voice hard. "I do not believe loyalty is gender specific."
There was a moment of awkward silence, then Logan said, "I'm gonna scrounge us up some brews!"
Ororo smiled saying, "Tactful as ever, Wolverine, you are the heart and soul of diplomacy."
Rogue stood away from the table, a little uncertain . Despite her initial anger Ororo knew that Rogue was hurting too and it pained her to think she may play a part in that pain. She indicated Logan's vacated chair. "Join us," she invited.
"Ya sure?"
Ororo pushed the chair out further. "Positive. Come, join us in our debauchery!"
"You know what goes great with debauchery?" Jean asked.
"More debauchery!" The girls laughed in unison. Cyclops and Warren exchanged confused glances, but decided against questioning the girls weird credo, lest they remember they enjoyed the company of dogs more than they enjoyed them.
When Logan returned to the dining hall Ororo wasn't seated at the head table, instead he saw her in the center of the room, body swaying and dancing to the music in lithe movements and perfect rhythm. She looked so inconceivably sexy his claws almost extended again, but he kept himself in check. Barely. She hadn't noticed his return and he took the time to observe her, snapping open one of his beers, leaning against the wall, half concealed in shadow. Her skin seemed to glow under the soft lights of the chandeliers, her eyes closed, luscious lips spread wide in a smile. She looked incredibly young. Sometimes it was hard for him to remember she was only twenty-six, she seemed ageless, wise beyond her years. Years of fending for yourself and fighting off enemies since you were five years old would do that, he supposed.
If he were to try and describe 'Ro in a nutshell, he would have to say silken smoothness over wrought steel. An enigma, a goddess amongst mortals, a true friend and quite possibly the only person to see him as he was, right down to the dark depths of his soul, and not flinch away. Instead she was always there, her velvety voice a soothing balm in the face of his snarling rage, her laughter medicine to his wounded soul, her spirit--that wonderful free spirit--a match for his own. He loved her, loved her like he could love no other. She was his heart, his breath, his soul. He would spend the rest of his life making sure she knew that.
Ororo felt a ripple of awareness travel down her spine only moments before strong arms enveloped her from behind, warm lips trailing kisses along the skin between her neck and shoulder. She turned slightly, looking at Logan through thick lashes, their lips a breath away from each other, her body still moving to the music.
Logan growled deep in his throat. "Yer so damn beautiful," his heated voice rumbled as he turned her so that she was molded against him.
"Dance with me," she whispered. Without hesitation Logan began to move with her, bodies brushing every so often, eyes locked, hands caressing.
Several of the other X-Men's mouths gaped open at the sight of their resident goddess wrapped in the arms of their most feral warrior.
"Wolverine's dancing for crying out loud!" Bobby said, gaze unbelieving.
"And he's dancing with Storm!" Jubilee said, stating the obvious.
"Holy Crap!" Was all Kitty said.
On the other side of the dance floor Scott looked at his wife, asking, "What's up with Wolverine and Storm?"
Jean glanced over her shoulder at the couple so enthralled with each other they seemed oblivious to the commotion they were causing. "I believe they are falling in love. Would probably be there already if not for all the interruptions they've had."
Scott looked like he swallowed a bug. "Storm thinks she's in love with Wolverine?"
"Not thinks, Scott. Is. Same with him. Very much so."
Scott shook his head, disbelieving. "Nope. It's her head, it isn't right. Momentary insanity, nothing more, nothing less."
Jean scrunched her nose. "He is rather lovable when you get past the rage, killing instinct and razor sharp claws." Her comment caused Scott to tense.
"You would know." His voice was cold. "I think I'll go get a drink. Excuse me, Jean." He stalked off the makeshift dance floor without looking back. Maybe if he had he would've seen the look of anguish that crossed his wife's face, or the red flames that blazed momentarily in her green eyes. But he didn't, he kept walking-- past the tables, through the doors and out of the Mansion.
The party was still going full swing when Wolverine pulled Ororo from the dining hall, leading her towards the stairway up to her loft. "Have to get you alone, darlin'. Yer driving me insane with wantin'." He had whispered in her ear moments before practically dragging her into her room. He slammed the door behind them, a clear do not disturb to anyone foolish enough to follow.
He approached her much like a lion stalking its prey. Her breath quickened and he could smell her anticipation, her desire. His hands caught her face, tracing the strong line of her jaw, traveling across her neck, down to her smooth skinned shoulders. -Snikt- He cut through the thin straps of her dress, causing it to slide down her body in a ripple of black silk, leaving her gloriously naked save for her black high heels. God bless her aversion to underwear, he thought. She presented such an erotic picture Logan worried he wouldn't be able to keep the animal side of himself in check. He, who had been with countless women, suddenly trembled beneath her blue-eyed gaze.
"Logan." A voice that reminded him of smoky rooms and satin sheets. A voice suited for a seductress, a sex goddess, an angel.
Ororo shivered, but not with cold, or fear, but with longing. Some distant part of her mind recognized that she had been waiting for this moment, with this man, for what felt like an eternity. She watched with avid fascination as he shrugged out of his jacket, pulled his shirt over his head impatiently, fumbled with the buckle of his belt, finally lowering his pants, kicking them and his boots off at the same time. He started to lower his boxers when she put her hands over his.
"There is something you should know. I have never been with anybody before," she said softly, worrying her bottom lip with her teeth, an uncharacteristic sign of nervousness.
Logan's head shot up. "Forge?" he asked, unable to stop himself.
Ororo shook her head. "It was one of our biggest problems. One of the reasons he believed I did not love him. He asked me to leave the X-Men. I could not. So, he left me."
"The man was a fool," Logan said, voice harsh. She had been betrayed by so many of the men in her life, it was a wonder she was willing to be with anyone, least of all a man like him. "Of course ya couldn' leave the team. Anyone who knows ya would know yer heart is with the X-Men."
"True. But team obligation is not why I did not leave with Forge. He was right, I did not love him. My heart belonged to another, still does."
This time Logan tensed, not a muscle moving. "Ya tryin' at tell me somethin' here, 'Ro?" Did she love someone else? He wasn't sure he could take that.
Ororo's voice was soft but intense when she spoke, her bright blue eyes staring straight into his dark black ones. "I have loved you for as long as I can remember, Logan. I will always love you, no matter what lies ahead, no matter what destiny has in store for us. I love you with every fiber of my being. I wanted you to know before we went any farther. I do not wish to disappoint you. If you wish to leave, I will unders--"
Wolverine crushed her mouth beneath his, unable to believe what his ears had heard, what his hammering heart was pounding into his blood: "She loves me, She loves me, She loves me." He deepened the kiss, sliding his tongue past her pliable lips, entering the sweet recess of her mouth.
Ororo sighed, her eyes drifted shut, arms finding their familiar place around his neck, a soft moan escaping as he moved his mouth to her neck. Warm lips, wet tongue swirling against her soft flesh, so tender in his ministrations making the breath catch in her throat. Outside thunder rolled across the sky.
Logan lifted her effortlessly, laying her down on her white, ivy trimmed comforter with tender reverence. He followed closely, mouth closing securely over hers once more. He took his time, making the kisses count, nibbling, sucking and licking, eliciting the most delicious sounds from deep within the throat of his normally reserved goddess.
Ororo clutched his shoulders, her breath coming in quick pants, body tensed. Logan shifted position, sliding down her body, covering one breast with his warm hand, and the other with his hot mouth. Ororo moaned, delighting in the exquisite sensations his seduction sent through her. "Goddess, Logan, you make me feel wonderful," she breathed.
"That's the intent, love." His hands traveled over her flat stomach, pausing before skimming the triangle of snow at the juncture of her shapely thighs. Ororo's response was immediate and gratifying, her body arching against him, seeking his touch. "Easy, darlin'. We've got all night." Lightening lit the sky.
"Logan, please…" Her hands clutched her bedding involuntarily when she felt Logan's mouth pressing soft kisses against her stomach, trailing lazily over the heated flesh.
"Open fer me, darlin'." He gently pushed her legs apart, fitting himself snugly between them. "Relax, fer me. That's my girl."
Hot breath fanned Ororo's most sensitive area, followed by the feel of Logan's moist mouth and swirling tongue. "By the Bright Lady!" Her back arched, body taught as a bow. Thunder cracked, lightening flashed.
Logan chuckled against her soft skin. Who knew she would be so responsive? He pressed his tongue deep inside, lapping up her glorious taste, reveling in her unique scent. Her hands clutched his hair, pulling against the roots, almost savagely. He still did not cease his torture, gently sucking on her hidden pearl.
"LOGAN!" Ororo's orgasm was a sight to behold. Her body trembled beneath his mouth's skillful onslaught, wind whipping around the room, her eyes glowing white in the dark, skin flushed a rosy hue, roll after roll of thunder rumbling across the night sky. "Oh my…" She said breathily. "I had no idea."
"And fer that, I'm very thankful," Logan said, slipping his boxers off, settling himself once more between legs slick with the evidence of her first release. He lined himself up with her opening, forcibly refraining from thrusting into her with the savage desire he felt. Instead he kissed her, deeply and held her hands high above her head. "I don't wanna hurt ya," he panted. Desire bringing the animal in him dangerously close to the surface. As if sensing his inner struggle Ororo gave him a sultry smile, locked her legs around his hips and thrust herself against him, effectively impaling herself upon his turgid manhood. He groaned in ecstasy, closing his eyes.
"I love you," she said when he began to move slowly within her. Sliding in and out of her tight sheathe with barely controlled movements. Logan could feel the blood pounding throughout his body, the animal screaming for release.
"Logan, look at me." He opened his eyes. She arched her hips beneath him, taking him all the way inside. His body began to tremble, fighting to remain in control. He would have been able to, he was almost sure of it, had she not said in that bedroom voice of hers, "Don't hold, back. Not with me, Logan. Don't hold back."
With a feral growl he let himself go, claws extending and retracting in sync with the thrusts of his hips. He buried his head in the soft hollow between her neck and shoulder, teeth sinking into the tender flesh, drawing blood. He tasted the coppery essence, but instead of impeding his mounting climax, it only fed the animal inside and his thrusts became harder, faster, harder, faster. He felt it building and building until he came with such shuddering force he felt as though he was pouring his very soul deep inside of her. "
"'Ro?" his breathing was ragged. " Are ya all right?" No response. He lifted his head, worry etched on his ruggedly handsome face. She was smiling. A smile so full of love and tenderness for a moment he couldn't speak. "Ya all right?"
She touched his grizzled cheek, eyes wide. "You love me," she breathed.
Logan turned his face into her hand, kissing her palm. "Yeah. I love ya," he murmured. "Like no other." Realizing his 400 pound adamantium filled body was still laying over her, he flipped them so that she lay sprawled over him. Logan pulled her down and kissed her, needed to kiss her. She pulled back, teeth nipping his lower lip.
"That was amazing," she said. "I had no idea it was like that."
"Honestly, 'Ro, neither did I." He traced her lips with one blunt finger tip. "That was a first for me too." His face darkened when he saw the bite marks he left along the tender skin between her shoulder and neck. He traced the outline of his fanged teeth, his eyes losing some of their light.
"Don't." Ororo said. She touched the marks he had left on her with what seemed like reverence. "Do not withdraw from me like that. This was beautiful. We were beautiful, Logan. And these marks are symbols of the freedom you and I share."
"I treated you like an animal." he said.
"Foolish man. What are we if not animals, but you treated me not as such. You touched me like I was made of the finest porcelain, brought me fulfillment I had not known possible and then you let me see you, Logan. The real you, and it was beautiful."
She meant it he realized. She loved him, loved what they had done as much as he had. Never before had he let go like that, losing himself so completely, trusting the other person to be there when it was done. Trusting his full heart to someone else. A long time ago someone had told him. "The best proof of love is trust." He knew that statement to be true now. He sat up, removing the black shoes she was still wearing, massaging her feet as he did so. "I really like these shoes, " he said with a sinful smile.
Once back in bed he pulled her astride him, saying, "I love ya, darlin'."
Laughing with delight she collapsed on top of him, starlight tresses spilling over his shoulder. They lay that way for a long time, no need for words between them, their soft caresses and gentle kisses telling all. In the wee hours just before dawn Ororo whispered, "Goodnight, my love," welcoming his arms around her.
"G'night, my heart."
Xavier Institute
Westchester County, New York
Warm rays of sun caressed her skin, kissing her flesh, waking her with gentle persistence. The beams were flooding in through the open skylight of the loft. "Mmmmm…" Ororo rolled, stretching with feline satisfaction, body deliciously tender from Logan's repeated attentions. A wide smile on her face as she arched her back, stretching her legs languidly.
"Keep that up, darlin' and you won't be getting' outta bed at all today." Ororo blinked sleepily at the man standing beside her bed, wearing only a white cotton sheet draped loosely about his muscular waist. She used this moment to study him, her gaze appreciative as she took in his stocky build, broad shoulders, wide chest covered with crisp dark hair, muscular arms and lean hips. Unbidden an image of her wrapping her legs around those hips in the throes of release rose from the dreamlike memories of last night. Blushing, shaking herself from her perusal Ororo scootched to a seated position, pulling the blankets up to her breast, giving him a welcoming smile.
"What time is it?" she asked on a yawn.
"Still early," Logan handed her a steaming cup of coffee. She took it, sipping carefully. Logan stared at her speculatively. "How ya feelin'?"
"Magnificent." Her eyes twinkled merrily. "You?"
"Same." He leaned forward capturing her chin between thumb and forefinger, kissing her gently. His sensitive fingers tracing her moist lower lip as he pulled back.
Living the shadowed life of a killer, a hunter, a government weapon and finally an X-Man, Wolverine more often than not felt unworthy of the benefits life had to offer. Love, friendship, companionship, all seemed to be fairytale things meant for other people, never himself. Yet here before him sat a goddess, fallen from her heavenly pedestal, rumpled in sheets that smelled of sex and sandalwood, offering all of those things to him, looking up at him through thick black lashes, her glorious body bearing his marks. His claim. His.
Logan took a ragged breath. Waking up tangled with 'Ro, her hands fisted in his dark hair, breathing softly against his chest, it had taken him a good ten minutes to talk himself into believing that he was awake and not dreaming. She was looking at him now, eyes tender, one corner of her mouth tilted up, her lips still swollen from his kisses. He groaned as her tongue flicked out, licking a drop of coffee from the corner of her mouth.
"Logan?" Innocent concern.
"'Ro." He took the coffee cup out of her hands, setting it on the nightstand. He gave her one of his most sinful smiles, pulling the covers from her skin, reveling in her unabashed nakedness. He dropped his sheet, pulling her to him, wrapping his arms around her so tightly for a moment she couldn't breathe. Then he kissed her, in the way only he could. Consuming her heart and soul, lips tender and demanding, drawing a low moan from deep within her. He slid a hand up her thigh, causing her breath to hiss from between clenched teeth.
BAMF
"Hey, Storm, heard you were--Mein Gott!"
SNIKT--
BAMF
"Where were we?"
The loft was filled with warm sunshine, soft murmurs, low laughter, guttural moans and finally the frantic cries of a goddess fulfilled.
Danger Room
Blinking robot orbs whizzed around the Danger room at dangerous speeds, lights flashing, collecting data and sending it back to the control turret several feet overhead. Beast shook his head, befuddled by the readings his robotic assistants were collecting. He looked out the armored windows surrounding the observation deck, down at the woman in the center of the room, lightening flying from her fingertips, snapping glossy metallic insects from the air, faster than she had ever done before and with far greater power. If the readings were correct, Storm had enough electricity in the palm of her hands to power the entire STATE of New York for an extended period of time. Beast pulled his glasses off, rubbing his furry nose in a perplexed manner. There was something wrong with the program, there had to be. He hoped. Henry looked back down at Storm, who was now gliding around the room in a stunning display of aerial acrobatic skills, her long white hair flowing behind her, eyes cloudy white.
"Are we all done, Henry?" Strange voice, echoing.
Beast blinked. "Pardon?"
"I asked if we were all done?" Storm's voice. Ororo floated outside the windows, brow furrowed. "Is everything all right, my friend?"
"Yes. Yes. Everything is fine. I will confer with the Professor and we will go from there." Henry said distractedly. He pushed a selection of buttons and with a soft whir the overhead fluorescent lights came on, exercise ending. "For the time being, Storm, I still strongly suggest you avoid any strenuous activity. The stress test we conducted on your heart this morning looks good, but I would rather risk the cliché of 'better safe than sorry' over hindsight being twenty-twenty."
Ororo nodded, thinking of the strenuous activities she'd been engaging in this morning. She slowly lowered herself to the floor, smiling slightly at her thoughts. She felt invigorated and more alive than ever, and she knew it had nothing to do with the Danger Room exercise and everything to do with the dangerous, handsome man waiting for her outside the hydraulic double doors.
"Hello, Logan." she greeted, pleasantly surprised to see him. "I thought you were going to town?"
"Naw. Decided t' wait. Thought maybe ya wanted ta tag along." He handed her a towel and bottled water, wrapping one rugged arm around her waist, hand resting comfortably on her hip.
"Sounds like a wonderful idea. I just need a quick shower, and I will be ready to go."
"Want I should give ya a hand?" Logan's voice became husky, lips grazing her neck, eyes darkening.
Good Lord the man was insatiable! Ororo realized she was in much the same boat, craving his touch, his voice, his scent. She gave him a smoldering look, walking ahead of him past the locker rooms, past the changing rooms, past the entrance to the main mansion and through the doors leading to the woods behind the Institute. Wolverine's mouth curved in a wicked grin. Ah, a shower like only 'Ro could take.
Logan had always known her to be somewhat of a sensualist, knew that she loved to be naked, enjoyed soft blankets, the feel of the rain and sun, but it wasn't until this moment, watching her hands skim the long blades of grass as she walked, that he fully appreciated the sacrifices she made to maintain her icy demeanor, to be the stoic role model of her team, to shut her emotions off and completely box in her true self, so that no one could see what Ororo was really like. They all saw as Storm: leader, commander, and noble friend, but how many people saw Ororo? The real 'Ro. The one who smiled at butterflies, who touched everything in nature from the grass on the ground to the bark on the trees, even at times dancing in the clouds. Her sensitive fingers searching for contact, tactile stimulation while the rest of her remained locked in an icy container of control.
It had never seemed to bother her, but now he was wondering. Had she ever wanted more for herself? Had she ever wanted to tell everyone who was free to express their happiness and anger without worrying about a tornado wiping out the county to go fuck themselves?
How many times had he spoken to her of his unrequited love for Jean? Mariko? How many times had he told her he didn't need anyone when she had tried to comfort him? How many times had this woman held herself back for the benefit of others? His jaw clenched and suddenly he despised himself almost as much as he despised the only other person to glimpse the real 'Ro under the façade. He and Gumbo had both used her as it suited them. Both loved by Ororo, befriended and consoled by her in their times of need, and how did they repay her? By whining about their miserable lives, taking solace in the comfort she offered, never asking her if she was happy, never looking beyond themselves to see her quiet suffering. Damn it. She was his now, and he would see to her happiness himself.
Ororo was completely caught off guard by Logan's fierce tackle. She lay beneath him stunned and breathless. "Goddess, Logan, what has gotten into you?"
"You." His mouth claimed hers, hot and hungry. "Yer the best thing that has ever happened to me, 'Ro."
"I did not happen to you. I have been here the entire time," she murmured. She frowned at the look her words caused. He ran one hand through her silken hair, across her forehead and down the bridge of her straight nose.
"I know, darlin'. I know." Then no more words.
Early evening, Downstairs Living Room
"So, whatchya in the mood fer, babe?" Logan asked, looking through the wide selection of movies he and 'Ro had picked up from the local movie store. "Action, Adventure, Horror, Drama…Chick flick?"
"Comedy." Her dulcet voice came from the kitchen where she was popping up some buttery goodness. He strode through the swinging doors that separated the rooms, holding two cases in his hands, reading the summaries aloud for her to hear.
"How 'bout Alien vs. Predator?"
"I said comedy," she reminded.
"Yeah, I know." He grinned at her. She pulled his signature cowboy hat down over his eyes playfully.
"It will be nice to have a night of normalcy before you leave in the morning." She said as she removed the pan of popped kernels from the burner. She poured them into a large plastic bowl.
"Don't say that, darlin'. Normal around here is spaceships crashing in the front yard, and weird mutants crawling outta the woodwork."
Ororo laughed. "Too true." She poured melted butter over the bowl. "Shall we?"
"One sec." He reached in the fridge, grabbing a beer. "Lead the way, darlin," Logan opened the door for her, grabbing a handful of hot popcorn as she passed.
"You know, I could always tell Scooter to take me off the mission. I don't think he'd mind." Logan drawled as they settled on the couch in front of the large screen TV.
"You are an X-Man, Logan. Doing these missions is a part of that duty."
"It's a simple recon mission, 'Ro. I think Cyke can handle it."
"I am ever confident Scott can indeed handle a simple reconnaissance mission, Logan. But seeing as how you are the best at what you do…" she trailed off, tossing a piece of buttered popcorn into her mouth.
"That's true enough, but I'd rather stay here and keep an eye on ya," he said honestly. "Jean, Blue-boy and the Professor are on their way to Genosha fer some damn Mutant rights convention, and Warren and Betsy are headed to England to visit her brother. I don't like the idea of ya being here alone."
Ororo stiffened slightly. "I do not need constant supervision, Logan. I am quite capable of taking care of myself. And I am hardly alone, there are plenty of students here. Besides, I have said it a hundred times and I will only say it once more. I am fine, when will you believe that?"
"When it's the truth."
"I do not lie, Logan." Her jaw was set. Logan growled under his breath, he knew that look all too well. She wasn't budging.
"Sure thing, 'Ro. Whatever ya say." He took her hand in his, webbing their fingers together. It was an unexpected gesture, as Logan was not the type of man for mushy sentiments or public displays. Private was private and he liked it like that, but with 'Ro it was different. Everything was different with her. She belonged with him, and to hell with what anyone else thought.
Ororo immediately relaxed at the feel of his hand, laying her head on his shoulder, placing the bowl of popcorn on his lap.
"S'up." Bobby Drake sauntered into the room, followed by Peter Rasputin and Kitty. He poked Kitty in the ribs tilting his head in a not-too-subtle gesture towards Logan and Ororo's interlocked hands. Kitty grinned, practically clapping her delight.
"Hey, Storm. Hey, Wolvie." She plopped down next to them, her head resting on Logan's opposite shoulder.
"What're we watching?" Bobby asked throwing himself into an overstuffed recliner. He gave them a saucy wink.
Logan growled, but handed the kid his beer. Bobby grinned, blowing on the top, effectively frosting the brew. "So what is it?" he asked again, handing the beer back.
"Happy Gilmore."
"Sweet. Hey hand me some popcorn."
Ororo could feel a rumble forming in Logan's chest and smiled. She pressed her lips to his grizzled cheek, murmuring incoherent soothing sounds. He handed the bowl to Bobby, his eyes on Ororo. After a moment he turned, saying to Peter who was still standing behind the couch. "Take a seat, kid. Yer making me jumpy."
"I would not want to interrupt." The large Russian said with a look at Bobby.
"Interrupt what?" Jubilee asked, coming through the front door.
Logan was definitely rumbling now.
"Join us, won't you?" Ororo said to both Peter and Jubilee. Logan growled down at her. She smiled up at him. He wrapped his hand in her hair, pulling her in for a kiss.
"Okay, that's just wrong." Bobby said, but the grin on his handsome face said he thought differently. Jubilee gave Kitty a questioning look and Kitty gave her a thumbs up behind the couch.
"Cut it out." Logan looked at the girls.
"What?" they asked in unison, feigning innocence.
"Just watch the movie and shut yer yaps," he said to no one in particular.
Later, Attic Loft
"That was really nice of you to let the children join us," Ororo said, running a comb through her snowy hair.
"I didn't do it at be nice, 'Ro." He stood behind her, shirtless in the mirror. Her breath caught at the sight of him. Would he always have this startling effect on her senses, she wondered. "I did it 'cause they needed to be reassured that you were gonna be all right."
He took the comb from her fingers, running it through the strands himself. She closed her eyes, enjoying the feel. No one had ever brushed her hair before. She let out a long content sigh. Logan was constantly surprising her, seeing to her needs, making her feel loved, cherished. She had no idea it would be like this, loving him. And she did love him, more than she ever believed possible. Surprising him she stood up, throwing her arms around him.
"Ya all right 'Ro?"
"Never better," she breathed, lips grazing his in a feather light caress. "Want to go for a ride?"
"Excuse me?" Logan couldn't have heard that right.
"Come on." She grabbed his arm, running towards the balcony doors. With a wave of her hand they blew open and she leapt from the railing, pulling him with her. For a split second they fell towards the ground, but then summoned by their mistress, warm winds surrounded them, lifting them both high into the night sky.
He had never seen her like this. So free, so open. She was sharing a part of herself that he knew she had never shared with anyone before. She took them high, through the clouds until his lungs ached, then she suddenly stopped the winds and they were free falling. She moved the air, catching them at the last possible moment, dangerously close to impact. He thought he was a thrill seeker, but she was insane! He laughed, loving every minute of it.
"It is good to hear you laugh, Logan." she said once their feet were firmly planted on the ground. "You do not do it nearly as often as you should."
"Truth be told, darlin', I usually don't have much reason ta laugh." She nodded in understanding. Of course she understood, she always understood him like no one else could. He grabbed her arms, hauling her close. "Ya gonna miss me, babe?"
She didn't try to be coy, didn't tease, but answered him truthfully, "More than you know."
"Show me," he said against her mouth.
Ororo's hands followed the muscular outline of his chest, down his firm abdomen, tugging at his jeans. She fumbled with his buckle, her mouth never leaving his. She sighed when she felt the belt give, snapping it from around his waist with a deft flick of her wrist. He groaned his approval.
Logan ran his hands down her back, cupping her firm, round backside, pulling her against the hard evidence of his need. She moaned arching against him. God he loved how responsive she was. How she managed to keep her emotions constantly repressed was beyond him. He ground himself against her, groaning.
She stepped away from him, pulling her white sweater over her head with agonizing slowness. She took another step away from him, her hands caressing the soft skin of her belly, thumbs grazing the undersides of her breasts. He growled low and deep, the sound rumbling through his entire body. She smiled seductively, cupping her own full breasts.
His pulse pounded in his head. She was drawing the animal out with her smoky looks and sultry smiles. Logan stalked her, moving slowly as she edged away from him, her gaze locked with his. He stalked her carefully, his eyes glittering like a hunter's, strategically moving her so that as she backed up, she found her body pressed against the weathered bark of an old oak tree. She looked surprised for a moment, but that was all he needed. Logan lunged forward, pressing against her, his mouth on her throat, teeth nipping, hands caressing her perfect globes. She whimpered her need. Whispered her heart.
He stepped away from her, staring at her in the moonlight, silver hair falling down her back. He looked into her eyes, saw everything he had ever dreamed of swimming in their depths. Logan fell on his knees before her, face buried in the warm skin of her stomach, lips brushing against her in butterfly softness as he said over and over, "I love you, I love you."
The last of their clothing was stripped from their bodies by her hurried hands and his skillful blades. She pulled him from his knees, kissing him, her tongue caressing his lips, her teeth catching his lower lip. She tugged gently, smiling when he groaned. He made her feel so beautiful, so powerful, and so loved. She felt drops of rain splash against her heated flesh and knew that she was bringing it on with her unrepressed response to him. She tried to focus, searching for her center of control.
"No." Logan snarled. "Don't, 'Ro. Feel this," He surged his hips against her moist heat. "Feel us!" His hands caught her under her thighs, lifting her against the tree as he pushed himself into her damp center. Her tender skin scratching against the rough bark, an erotic combination. His tongue flicked across her nipples, causing a shockwave of sensation to ripple through her body.
Being with Logan out in the woods, under the stars, nature all around them Ororo felt something release deep inside herself. Her eyes flashed white, lightening searing a path across the dark sky. Her fingers buried themselves in his thick hair as he thrust into her, slowly, withdrawing almost completely, then plunging forward, filling her. She moaned, her hands clutching at the bark above her head.
Logan lifted her higher, driving into her with bruising force. "Show me," he growled huskily. She cried out his name. He drove into her again. "Show me," he demanded. She whimpered, teeth gnashing, her lower lip trembling. Thunder boomed, the winds picking up speed. Leaves swirled around them, branches snapped overhead. Ororo gasped with each aggressive thrust. He leaned forward so their mouths brushed as he commanded, "Show me!" His momentum furious now, his body slamming into hers, each thrust a pleasure pain combination like nothing either had ever felt before. His teeth sunk into her shoulder, his body shuddering as his climax overtook him.
A torrential downpour of rain and hail exploded out of the sky. Ororo screamed as wave after wave of ecstasy slammed through her body.
After what felt like an eternity, but was in fact only a matter of moments, Logan lowered her legs to the ground, lifting his head from the pillow of her breast. He cradled her face in his palm, kissing her with aching tenderness.
She blinked up at him, murmuring his name. He pulled her close, bodies soaked with sweat and rain. He felt her shoulders shaking and for a moment he thought she was crying, but when he pulled back, concern on his face, he found her smiling. He raised an eyebrow, but instead of answering she nudged his shoulder, turning him around. Logan let out a low whistle. As far as the eye could see the ground was blanketed with snow, trees covered in icy leaves. He turned back to 'Ro grinning like a loon. He wrapped his arms around her, swinging her off her feet. She laughed, head thrown back. They kissed once more, long and lingering before she summoned the winds to transport them home.
From the shadows, hidden high in a tree, a man watched, eyes glowing red. He extinguished the burning end of his cigarette in his palm before slipping into the night's remaining darkness.