A New Home
Chapter 8: Russian Holiday
It was early, almost 5 AM and the birds outside had not yet woken. Soft snow was fresh on the ground from the nightly snowfall at the mansion and nothing stirred within the building. It was still dark outside though a faint glimmer of light was visible to the east where the sun would soon be making his way into the morning sky. John and Peter slept soundly in their room dreaming quietly of their fast approaching winter vacation.
"Rise and shine!" Jamie exclaimed as she barged into their room smiling. Her face was wide in an excited smile and her eyes shone almost as brightly as the stars that still dotted the sky, unwilling to let go of their places to make way for the brightest star of all.
John rolled over and covered his head with a pillow, "Go away," he mumbled.
Jamie ignored him and went to sit at the head of Peter's bed where he lay groaning somewhere under the mass of covers, "Have you packed your bags yet?" she asked brightly.
"Uh, Jamie we can't leave until the X-men get back with the jet. Go back to bed," he replied, moving around to get comfortable again.
"Yeah go to bed for the sake of the sane people of the world," John echoed, still in a dream-like state.
"But I can't sleep when I'm excited," she whispered more to herself than to the guys. "Fine, I get the hint, I'll go," she concluded. She looked to Peter then to John with a slight smile on her face and shook her head as she got up, Those guys, she thought, They really do need someone to take care of them. She left the room and wandered down the hall with no destination in particular. She admired the paintings on the walls that had first caught her eye when she came to the Institute. Eventually she found herself in the school's library. "Wow, this place has a library?" she asked aloud.
"Well of course it does, it's a school isn't it?" said a voice.
"Oh sorry, I've never been here," she replied in her defense, "Who are you?" she asked. She looked all around but couldn't see anyone at all in the room aside from herself.
"I work here, I'm what you'd call a 'twenty-four/seven Bookworm'," the voice replied with a hint of humor, "What is your name young lady?"
"I'm Jamie," she said still looking.
"Well Jamie it's very night to meet you, I'm Bookworm," the voice now sounded like it was just around the corner of the bookshelf next to Jamie. She walked around the shelf and looked down to find a small, worm-like creature that only stood about a foot tall at the most, wearing large rim glasses. "Well, you are quite tall aren't you Jamie?" he chuckled good naturedly, "Then again I am a bit on the short side." He noticed Jamie was looking around the books, "Are you looking for anything in particular?" he asked.
Jamie looked down at him then knelt on the floor then lay down on her stomach with her head resting on her hands in front of him, "I'm not sure," she said, "I've never been to a library before. What do you suggest?"
"Never been to a library before!" he repeated in mock alarm, "Why my dear, you've been missing out. A library is a wonderful place. Now let me look at you," he studied her for a moment behind his thick glasses then said, "You look like an adventure girl to me, or maybe poetry might be your taste. Well we'll have to find out, follow me. I'll show you all around the sections so you can visit more often."
Jamie giggled at Bookworm, "Okay, that works for me," she said.
She followed him though rows and rows of the enormous library naming the different types of books and explaining how they were categorized. "Poetry is here in the middle, it's one of my favorite sections and right next to it is fantasy. I think you know Kesskallome Creed? Well she's a regular in those sections; we've had quite a few discussions on Poe."
"Poe?" Jamie asked.
"Oh yes, yes, Edgar Allen Poe, one of the greatest poets to live and lived one of the saddest lives. You must read some of his work sometime, but first we make our way to adventure."
"I never knew there were so many types of books," Jamie said awed. She had never seen so many books in one place before, it had a magical feeling that excited her imagination.
"Well I am glad that I could give you your first tour," Bookworm replied, "Ah here, adventure." He stopped in front of a book case that had three sections and six shelves. Book of different height, width, and color were neatly in order according to author.
"There are all the adventures?" Jamie questioned in surprise.
"Indeed it is," Bookworm said with pride, "All the best novels, plays, short stories, fiction , and non-fiction there is. Enjoy, I shall return in a bit to check on how you're doing, but I have to go re-shelve the returned books now," he explained.
"Okay," Jamie said with a smile. With that Bookworm left Jamie and she started looking around the books. She pulled out a red one, a blue one, one with gold edged pages, one with old yellow paper, one with notes written on the inside, and one with many colorful pictures. She eagerly opened them and began to read, sitting on the floor as the first rays of the sun found their way in the windows and glinted off the shiny dark wood of the shelves.
At around 8 AM Peter stretched as he walked out of his room and down the hall to knock on Jamie's door. He knocked once but got no answer, a second knock yielded no more than the first and Peter began to wonder where Jamie was. He knocked on Kess' door and found the girl up early and ready, "Hey Kess, have you seen Jamie at all?"
"Nope, sorry Pete, hey if you John tell to get his sorry read end over here. Make sure he brings his bags too, he's virtually incapable of packing by himself."
Peter nodded and she went back into her room, he saw she had a myriad of clothes set out in neat piles on her bed ready for packing. He walked down the hall, checked the garage, the danger room, and gym but still found no Jamie.
Just as he was starting to worry Logan came around the corner, "Hey kid," he said.
"Hey Logan, have you seen Jamie" he asked.
Logan looked at him questioningly, "No why?" he replied.
"Well she came into my room this morning around 5 because she couldn't sleep from excitement. And now I can't seem to find her," Peter explained. Just then a girl walking down the hall caught their attention. She was carrying a stack of books in front of her face and she wore cut-off jean shorts with no shoes. Peter smiled, "I'd know those legs anywhere," he said and walked over to help Jamie. "Where have you been?" he asked taking some of the books from her arms as Logan did the same.
"I was in the library," Jamie answered.
"We have a library?" Logan asked.
"Yup and it's so much fun, all the books," she replied with a smile. "What time do we have to leave?" she asked turning to Peter.
"Well as soon as they get the jet re-prepped we can go, about two hours," he guessed.
"Ok, well I'm going to go read," she said and took her books back from the guys as she turned the corner into her room. She popped her head back around the doorway, "Could you get me one of those coffee things that you got me before?" she asked Peter.
"A café latte? Yeah I'll be there in a minute," he replied.
"Thanks, love ya babe," she flashed a smile and wink she knew he liked.
Peter loved her all the time but he had a certain preference for the mornings, she didn't have her hair done or any makeup on like she did at other times. She looked so natural, just the Jamie he fell in love with and nothing else. She was so fresh and awake, it helped him wake himself up and he knew in his heart he needed her more than anything, even air. "Buy you a coffee?" he asked Logan.
"Works for me," the burly man replied and walked with Peter to the student coffee corner and talked about the mission he had just gone on. It was a usual protection mission that most of the minor ones were. High ranking official needs an escort and goes to Xavier for aid. Not one of Logan's favorites but it was better than sitting around the mansion all day. "Thanks for the coffee," Logan told Peter.
"Yeah no prob man," Peter said, "See you later," and they went their separate ways. Peter walked into Jamie's room with two cups of coffee and found her lying on her stomach in front of the fireplace that had been recently added to different rooms of the mansion. The fire roared and it was her only light source because her blinds were closed and house lights off. She was humming softly to herself immersed in her book with its relatives strewn across the floor around her. She looked so beautiful lying there; she had pulled her hair back with a clip and messy ends that weren't long enough to stay back feel forward in her face and she automatically pushed them away from her face as her eyes darted across the page excitedly. A wide smile spread across her face and Peter could tell she was at a good part. "Hey, I got your latte," he said and walked towards her. He realized her had been thinking about her a lot lately. Though Jamie was always on his mind she seemed to be crossing his thoughts in a different way. Whenever he thought about his own future she was always his first vision, he knew that he would have no future if Jamie wasn't a part of it. She was more a part of him than anything including his mutation was.
"Thanks," she said lovingly without taking her eyes from her book.
Peter set down the drinks and lay down beside her. "What are you reading?" he asked as he grabbed the book in front of him and turned it over. The title read 'The Eyes of the Dragon', So Jamie, he thought and smiled to himself.
"Treasure Island," she replied, "I'm almost half way through too," she added and took a sip of the drink before her. "Mm I love coffee," she whispered and returned to her reading.
While Jamie read Peter grabbed his sketchbook from off of her bed; he'd left it there the previous night during one of their late night chats. He turned to an empty page and began to sketch her as she lay. To anyone else's eyes the sketch was informal and even messy, but to Peter it was beautiful. Any time he drew Jamie he never saw the lines that made up her figure or the shading that created different tones on her face. He only saw the essence of her, and as hard as it was to catch, each time he came a little closer to doing so. He tried to draw the feelings he felt for her, the love and compassion that he knew in his heart anytime he thought of her. He never took his off of her while he drew and he didn't have to. His hands knew how to make the outline of her body without having to be told to. Like most truly good artists he had stumbled onto the secret of drawing. The brain helps not, the heart is what creates beauty.
"Finished!" Jamie exclaimed and set down her book. "So are we ready to leave?" she asked. As soon s she finished her book her mind was back on the trip as if it had ever left.
"Yeah, but we have to go see the professor for a minute before we go," Peter informed her.
They left Jamie's room and started to walk down the hall when they heard familiar voices arguing, "Are you sure you packed everything?" Kess asked John as she did a last run through their bags.
"For the millionth time yes!" John answered exasperated. "We're ready to leave," he said and helped gather up their bags.
The two couples met in the hallway with their bags, "Well, we're heading to the airport," Kess said. "Call us when you get to Russia, we should be settled in by that time. That is of course if Mr. Un-organized here didn't lose all our bags."
John rolled his eyes, "Well we'll just see who's borrowing whose toothbrush this time," he replied. Some of his straight, long brown hair fell in his eyes and he tried to get rid of it by jerking his head.
"You're so hopeless," Kess sighed and moved it for him, "What would you do without me?"
"Probably not have to check my bags five times," he retorted.
"And have to go buy new shorts as soon as you get to your destination. We know how that works," she snorted.
"That was once. Once! And you'll never let me live it down," he hung his head, "Oh I am hopeless aren't I?"
"Never darling!" Kess said and kissed him sweetly.
Jamie laughed, "Well I guess you two will have a fun time in Egypt won't you?"
"Oh yes we will, we have so much planned. John's never been there and I can't wait to go back. I haven't seen Egypt since I came to the Institute and I can't wait for Marian to see how much I've changed. She's the one who took me in; her and her husband Ferdinand. Saints they are, saints," she got a far off look in her eyes then came back to the hallway. "But we better get going or we'll miss our flight, I'll talk to you soon. Have a wonderful Christmas Jamie."
"You too Kess, I'll miss you so much," the two girl hugged and the men gave each other nods and said goodbye then the two couples set off in opposite directions for their separate vacations.
Outside Kess and John got a cab to the airport where Ororoe saw them off with a special goodbye to Kess. "I'll talk to you soon Ms. Ororoe," she said, "I'll send you back a bit of my home."
Ororoe hugged the girl and patted John's back, "Take care you two," she said and waved as the boarded their plane.
After he finished putting their bags in the overhead compartment John sat back down next to Kess. "Well, now we're set. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the in-flight movie," he said. "Here, just in case my shoulder isn't soft enough." He handed her a pillow and a blanket in case she got tired during the trip.
"Why thank you Prince Charming," Kess replied and took the items. She yawned, "Well I think I will end up asleep for most of this trip. I haven't slept well all week. I've been so excited. I've told Marian all about you, and I know you're going to love Cairo."
John put his arm behind Kess' neck and she leaned into his shoulder, "I know I am, as long as you're there," he said seriously. She looked up into his eyes and looked back lovingly and she settled in for a nap on his shoulder just as the plane began to take off and John sighed contently.
Peter and Jamie knocked lightly and entered the professor's study. "You wanted to see us sir?" Jamie asked.
"Yes indeed, I have called you here to ask something of you. I have spoken to the President of Russia and I have told that I would be sending replacements for myself at the annual Christmas event he hosts. I would like both of you to be present at the even in my absence. I'm afraid I just can't leave the Institute now and you're help would be greatly appreciated," he concluded.
"Of course Professor," Peter replied seriously.
"Good, I'll send you all the details to the satellite uplink in the jet as soon as I know them."
"Oh awesome! This is going to be so much fun." Jamie replied excited to have been chosen for this opportunity. "I guess I better go get a nice dress to wear," she said and turned out the door.
"Thanks Professor, we won't let you down," Peter smiled as he followed Jamie out the door.
"I know you won't," Xavier replied, "I will see you both when you return, have a safe flight."
Back in her room Jamie pulled a dress from her closet that was still wrapped in plastic. "Now I can wear this," she announced to Peter as she pulled the plastic off. "I bought it for the next special occasion that would arise because I absolutely loved it when I saw it." She ran her hand gently over the black silk and fingered the tiny rhinestones that made up the straps.
"It's beautiful," Peter said his eyes on Jamie not the dress. He could just envision her wearing it while they were out with the well-to-do at the Russian ball. It was a clingy dress that would highlight her every curve and perfection and he loved it. Once he snapped out of his daydream he said, "All ready to go?"
"Yup, all set," she replied and packed up her dress with her other clothes and they went down to the hanger to load the jet.
Jean, Scott, and Logan were waiting down there for them to say goodbye. "We'll miss you so much Jamie, take care and make sure you take a lot of pictures," Jean said and hugged her tightly.
"Yeah," Scott added, "We want to see all of the mysterious Rasputin family," he nudged Peter who grinned and shook his hand.
"You be careful out there kid," Logan said to Jamie with a cigar in his mouth, "Because I'm expecting those new cigars when you get back."
Jamie smiled and wrinkled her nose, "Don't worry Logan, nothing will keep me from getting you the smokes you need," she laughed.
"Alright, and a phone call or two wouldn't do you any harm either," he hugged her, "Gotta make sure you're still alive every once in a while. You can never tell with those Russians, hidden agendas they all got."
"Russians and mutants named Wolverine," Jamie said.
"You got me. Hey Peter, I expect you to take care of this little lady," Logan said to Pete who towered over him, "I don't want to have to do some damage to your exterior if she comes back any less happy than she is now."
"Oh don't worry Logan, I can guarantee she will be even happier when we get back," Peter replied with something in his eye that Logan caught. They stared at each other for a moment then Logan patted him on the back.
"Well, we'll see you when you get back," Jean said to break up the goodbyes, "You don't want to make Peter's family wait any longer to see him." With that Jamie and Peter boarded the jet and took their seats. Jamie waved at everyone left on the ground until they were long out of sight.
Jamie sat back in her chair and looked straight ahead then to Peter, "You sure you can fly this?" she asked sarcastically.
Peter grinned devilishly, "With my eyes closed," he said.
"Well don't try to show off," she replied, "You keep those eyes straight ahead mister." Jamie sat for a bit and looked out the window as the clouds flew by, "Is it ok to get up?" she asked.
"Yeah, and I'll put it on auto-pilot, then we're good to go for 20 hours," he said then asked, "It's 11 AM now, what do you want to do?"
Jamie stood up and walked around Peter's chair and put her arms around his neck while he started to put the plane into auto pilot, "Oh, I don't know," she proceeded to sit on his lap, arms still around his neck, "Why don't you tell me more about your family? Your childhood too, and you could teach me a little Russian, that way I don't sound like a fool." She laughed and Peter shook his head.
"Oh you won't sound like a fool, but I think I can teach you a few key phrases," Peter got out of his chair and the two sat in more comfortable seats in the back and Peter began the long story of his childhood and how he came about the Xavier mansion. Soon he taught her simple phrases like please and thank you, and other things. Hours went by and Jamie listened intently often interjecting her own comments on his life. At around 5 they talked about almost everything there was, "And that's all I can really tell you, but I am sure my mom will fill you in on anything I missed," Peter said and looked down at Jamie's face. She had fallen asleep on his shoulder while he had been speaking, "Is my life really that boring?" he asked more to himself than Jamie.
Jamie sighed softly and moved a little to get comfortable, "No it's not you, plane rides make me sleepy, I heard every word you said," she spoke through a yawn without opening her eyes, "I'm not heavy am I?" she asked concerned about him being uncomfortable.
"Nope, you're just right," he replied and smiled. He watched the clouds go by as he cradled her in his arms in her deep sleep. While he watched a thousand questions raced through his head not questions about Jamie but for her. She had heard his whole life story he wanted to know more about her, but he also wanted to know more than that. His nerves got the better of him every time he thought about what he would say and his skin seemed to crawl with nervousness and excitement. Sometimes he wondered if she felt the same way about him that he felt about her but then he always knew she did. They both knew they were meant for each other. As the hours went by Peter began to fall asleep himself with her in his arms and his mind running away with him.
"Are we there yet?" Jamie mumbled slightly through her sleep.
Peter woke to her question and looked at the clock, "Yeah only a few more hours to go. You hungry?"
"Oh yes," she replied waking up with the thought of food on her mind, "What do you have?"
"Well let's go see," Peter smiled and lifted her up in his arms and walked to the back of the plane where the food was stored. He set Jamie down on the table and turned to the cabinets. "Alright we've got cereal, soup, um, oatmeal…"
"Oatmeal?" she asked.
"Coming right up, do you want some tea too?" Peter asked.
"Yes please," Jamie replied.
The radio began to beep, there was a call coming in, "Go ahead," Peter said into the speaker.
"Piotr?" a woman's voice asked
"Da mater," he answered. Peter and his mother talked for a little while, in Russian, and Peter told Jamie after the call that his family was wanting to know how things were and that they couldn't wait to see them.
"I hope they like me," Jamie said as she took as sip of the tea Peter made her.
"They will," he said as he fixed her oatmeal, "They basically know you. I made sure of that," he handed her the bowl, "Trust me they will love you." He saw some doubt in her eyes and lifted her face to his. "They'll fall in love with you as quickly as I did," he concluded as he gently kissed her. Jamie smiled.
Hours passed and both Peter and Jamie began to feel a bit tired again. There wasn't much to do to keep someone active on a jet and after reading most of her books Jamie yawned. "I think I'm going to take another nap," she said. Peter agreed and he let her curl up on his lap in the back of the plane on a soft cot. They both snoozed for a bit until Peter jerked awake from a dream waking Jamie in the process. He looked at the clock which read 5:30 though it was still American time.
"I had better get to the front," he said and stood up, "We're probably a half an hour away and the weather down there is miserable."
Jamie stretched, "Ok, is there someplace in the back where I can wash up? I feel pretty gross from all that sleeping."
"Yeah," Peter said, "There's a little shower in the back where that door is there. And dress warm, it's pretty cold out there." Jamie nodded and grabbed her bag of clothes she had brought to change into and went in the back to shower. Peter took a drink from a bottle of water he took from the small refrigerator, "It's good to be home," he said.
"Please re-buckle your seat-belts and turn off all electrical devices please," said the woman's voice over the plane's intercom, "We will be arriving in Cairo momentarily. We hope you've enjoyed flight and please have a safe and happy holiday season."
Kess stretched like a cat as John yawned, "Now all we have to do is brave the customs agent and then our escape from the tyrannical rule of the Americas is complete," he said.
Kess laughed, "Then all I have to do is escape from you," she said and poked his stomach.
John stretched and let his arms fall around her, "You know you could never do that. My hold over you is eternal. Besides you came to me willingly," he winked.
"Or something like it," she said. The plane finally landed and they stood up to leave, John grabbed their carry on luggage and Kess got their tickets and passports in order. They didn't have to spend too long in customs; the Professor had made arrangements for them since he was on good terms with most International Officials and before they knew it they were on an escalator down to the main lobby of the airport. A heavy jacket hung over Kess' shoulder and John had tied his sweatshirt around his bag because there was no need for it in the place they were going to. Though the temperature did drop down to the 50's occasionally there was really nothing heavier than a light sweatshirt to wear. The pair talked a little about what was around them, John hadn't been out of the country for any pleasure reasons, only for missions, and he was excited to be able to look at things around him for fun instead of having to focus on them for a different purpose.
Their conversation was interrupted by a little girl's voice calling Kess' name. "Kesskallome!" she shouted.
Kess looked up excitedly and grabbed John's arm, "Look it is Carolina," she said and waved. They ran the rest of the way down the escalator and Kess dropped her bag and scooped up the little girl in her arms. "Hello Carolina, I missed you!"
The little girl's short brown hair that had at one time been pinned up nicely was now in a frenzy about her head. The girl's mother and father stood off a little ways but when they heard her cries they came over to where Kess was just standing up. "We missed you," said the woman as she put her arms around her. Her soft brown hair fell all around her smiling face. "And this must be John," she said. She walked to where John stood behind Kess and shook his hand, "It's nice to finally meet you," she said, "I've heard so much."
"It's nice to meet you too," he replied, "I've heard wonderful things about Egypt from her too."
Kess slipped her hand into John's as they walked through the airport with Marian, Ferdinand and Carolina, their daughter. Ferdinand helped them carry their bags and the two men packed everything into the family's small car. When they first walked out of the sliding glass doors John covered his eyes from the bright sun. Cairo was not what he had expected; there were modern buildings, bridges, restaurants, and flashing lights. When he was young he had visited Florida and it reminded him of Orlando or Tampa.
"Impressed?" Kess asked when she saw how he looked around.
"Yeah," he said, "I sure am. It's not what I had envisioned."
"Most people are that way. Even though there are some places that still keep with older traditions Cairo has definitely gone western. But don't worry; we'll see plenty of little villages. I want to take you to the place where I was born."
"I can't wait," he said. They climbed into the car, Kess with Carolina on her lap and John with his arm wrapped tightly around her waist, and set off for their host's home not too far from the city limits.
Jamie entered the cockpit donning a black turtle neck, jeans, and a pair of boots Peter had given her as an early Christmas gift. She grabbed a donut from the in-plane pantry and walked to her cockpit chair and put on her seat belt.
"Perfect timing," Peter said when she sat down, "We're about to land. I talked to my mom; she says Ilyana is so excited she won't stay in the house." Peter laughed to himself as he remembered his younger sister. She had been a lot younger the last time he had seen her but she had always had an electric personality. If it hadn't been for her he never would have figured out about his mutant abilities. Years ago on their small family farm he had saved her from their tractor when it had gone out of control. He was her protector and she was his little angel.
"I can't wait to meet her," Jamie said. Part of her had always wished for an older sibling or any sort of sibling that she could really be close too. She hoped though, that maybe she could find a relationship of that sort in Peter's family.
A moment later Peter began to take the plane down to land; he was a skilled pilot and they had no problems with the landing. Jamie and Peter got up from their seats and put on their warm hats, gloves, and thick parkas to prepare for the cold of Russia. Peter grabbed their three bags in one hand and Jamie opened the hatch. Snow came raining in and Jamie got her first taste of Russia. She wiped the snow off her and smiled at Peter. Her nose was already bright red and Peter could only laugh at her. The two walked out and cloaked the plane so no one would bother it. The snow fell so hard they could hardly see the house that stood but a few yards away. Peter took a deep whiff of the air; "Ah, do you smell that?" he said to Jamie, "Smells like mom's been cooking."
He had barely finished his sentence when a young girl's voice drifted through the snow. "Piotr!" yelled Ilyana as she came out of nowhere and tackled him to the ground.
Peter laughed as he hugged his sister and looked up at Jamie, "Ilyana this is Jamie, Jamie this is my sister Ilyana."
Ilyana looked up at Jamie with big blue eyes. Long blonde hair fell in her eyes and she brushed it away with a wide smile, "She's prettier than in the pictures," she said. Her English was fairly good; schooling and Peter had been the reasons she was so well spoken.
Jamie smiled and bent down. She held out her hand to the young girl, "Thank you, it's so nice to finally meet you Ilyana."
Peter picked up his sister and carried her on his shoulders as they walked to the house. Peter's home was small and modest set in the middle of a large expanse of snow covered fields. Jamie's eyes moved along the horizon as the falling snow slowed down to a pleasant flurry. The sun was falling slowly towards the edge of the world and the sky turned a bright blue then faded into a light orange hue. Where there were once multicolored fields in the distance now there was only a white blanket covering everything within eyesight. Jamie soaked up the view as they walked towards Peter's house. She followed her boyfriend and his sister to the small house from which a menagerie of delicious smell emanated. Just before they got to the porch the front door burst open with warm welcomes from Peter's mother and father. They were beyond happy to see their son and finally meet his girlfriend. Peter embraced his mother and clapped hands with his father for whom he had to translate because he spoke almost no English at all. Peter's mother knew some from helping her daughter with school work but her Russian accent was so strong it was sometimes hard to understand her.
"It's nice to meet you" Jamie said in barely recognizable Russian. Peter had taught her how to say 'thank you' as well as some other things in Russian so she would be prepared for meeting his family.
Jamie put out her hand to shake with Mrs. Rasputin but the kind woman gave her a big hug, "It's wonderful to meet you too," she said in English. Peter's mother was much shorter than he was and it was obvious by looking at her where Ilyana got her beautiful blonde hair. She was much shorter than her husband but sturdy and capable of labor; a true farmer's wife. Her blue eyes, hidden behind a pair of glasses, had passed to her daughter as well as her wide smile. Peter's father looked much different, while had light brown hair and a long beard his eyes were dark brown and hawk-like. He was taller than his wife but neither of them were nearly the size of their son. "You can have Peter's room," his mother told Jamie, "If you are needing anything you tell me. Welcome to our home." With that Mrs. Rasputin excused herself and her husband back inside to finish cooking dinner. "Ilyana, you come to," she called to her daughter. Ilyana made a move to protest but with a stern look from her mother she complied.
When they were alone Jamie turned to Peter, "Where are you going to sleep?" she asked.
"Out on the couch," he replied as he began unpacking their bags once they had walked into his room.
"Oh no, I don't want to take your room, I'll sleep on the couch," Jamie said. She didn't want to kick anyone out of their room.
"Don't even think about it," he said, "I like the couch, and I'll be in to check on you all the time. The nights in Russia get pretty cold." He winked at her, "Don't worry about it," he said as he walked over and put his arms around her as she sat on his bed. Every time he touched her they both got chills. Together they felt perfect and warm even at the coldest time. Her skin against his was soft and smooth and it reminded him of being wrapped up in the velvet blankets at the Institute when he had first arrived. She fit into his shoulder perfectly as if she were made to lean against him which he was pretty sure she was. His arms protected her and made her feel like she wasn't alone anymore and she didn't always have to fight. He looked down into her eyes, "Never thought I would have such a pretty girl in my room before," he said which pulled a grin and a blush from Jamie.
She bit her lip as she always did and said, "I'm happy to be here, I love your family," she looked up into his eyes and saw herself reflected in them, but not just her as she was but her as she wanted to be and could be with the help and support of Peter. He put both his black sweatshirt clad arms around her and pulled her close to his muscular chest and held her for a little while. Jamie pulled up a little after a moment and ran her fingers through his short brown hair and rested her hands on the back of his neck. He leaned down and kissed her softly. It was amazing how gently he acted around her when he had the power to crush almost any living thing. Their kiss ended and they smiled as they both continued to unpack. They did so until Peter's mother came down the hall to tell them it was time for dinner.
Mrs. Rasputin had made a Russian Roast and Jamie loved it. They talked all night and laughed, Jamie was amazed at how easily she was accepted into the family. The potatoes and roast were incredible and she complemented Peter's mother continually on its excellence. After dinner they moved to the living room where Peter's mother brought out coffee and little tea cookies. Peter sat near the fire and Jamie placed herself between his legs; she leaned back against his chest and watched the flames leap and play. As they sat Peter's father talked to his son, he asked him they had met and Peter answered him. Jamie loved to listen to Peter talk in Russian it made her feel like a part of his home life as well. He spoke in English to her all the time but it was obvious that his first language, and the one he was more comfortable with, was Russian.
As Peter spoke Jamie began to think about the first time they had met, when he touched her shoulder to lead her away from Matt and his cronies. She remembered their first kiss and all the things they had been through together, the ups and down, and how she knew she could never love anyone else like she loved him. She came back to reality when Peter said her name while he was still talking to his father. The kindly man smiled down on her and Jamie looked up sweetly as they continued their conversation. It didn't last much longer and Mr. Rasputin watched as his son held his arms tightly around Jamie, watching her watch the fire blaze. He was very happy his son had found someone so perfect for him and he thought back to when he had met his wife for the first time. Though they were both poor they still had as much love and devotion as the two people in front of him did. He sighed and put his arm around his wife and leaned back on the couch they sat on. Then a thought came to him, "Peter," he said in Russian, "What are your intentions with her?"
Peter looked up and smiled, "You'll have to wait on that one Dad," he replied in Russian.
The family sat in silence a little longer until Peter's mother yawned and stood up, "Well I think we are going to bed. Don't stay up too late, you both need your rest. Come Ilyana." The Rasputin's walked down the hall to their room with Ilyana on her way to her room after Jamie and Peter said goodnight.
"They're so wonderful," Jamie said as she cuddled up against Peter's chest
He held her tighter with his strong arms, "Yeah they really like you, especially Ilyana. She said she think of you as a sort of big sister because I've told her so much about you," he said with a yawn. They sat a little longer, just being happy with each other's company but then Peter yawned again and said, "Well we better get some sleep. Tomorrow we'll go explore," he added.
The two went to Peter's room and Jamie changed out of her jeans and into a pair of long-johns and a long sleeved shirt. Peter had gone into his closet and came out in his own long-johns. He kissed her sweetly and said goodnight before going back into the living room to sleep. They looked so alike in their night clothes; Peter with his short hair and Jamie with her messy locks. Jamie watched him down the hall and then closed the door when he was gone and curled up in Peter's bed, wrapping the warm wool blanket around her.
"Jamie! Wake up!" Peter said as he gently shook her to wake her. He had been asleep in the living room when he heard strange moaning and whimpering from his room. He had gone into check on Jamie and found her whispering to herself and thrashing about the bed. Jamie sprang up in a sweat as tears rolled down her face. She looked scared, as if she had seen a ghost, Peter saw the fear in her eyes and held her tightly; hoping to scare away whatever has frightened her. She was shaking violently and Peter picked up the blanket and wrapped it comfortingly around her. "Shh, Jamie it's okay, I've got you," he said as he held her tighter, wondering what on earth could have scared her so. "What did you see?"
"My mother was chasing me – trying to kill me – calling me names – and – and then it went dark. I saw – Oh no, no, no – I saw the faces of all the – all the people I've – killed," she said as she burst into tears against Peter's chest.
"You're alright" he said soothingly, "I've got you; you're safe, shh…" Peter stayed awake until she fell back to sleep and one he was sure she was sleeping deeply and easily he got up and decided to call the Professor.
"Peter?" asked the familiar voice on the other end of the phone, "What is it son?"
"It's Jamie Professor," he replied.
"Is something wrong?" asked Xavier quickly.
"No, I don't think so," Peter replied, "It's just that she had a terribly vivid dream about those times she told us about; the things that make her nervous in the dark."
"Oh I see," Xavier replied, "But is she ok now?"
"Yes sir, she's sleeping fine. I held her for a while and I think she'll be ok now."
"Good Peter, I think the only thing anyone can do for her now is what you've done. There's no cure for our past but what can make it easier is someone that loves you. I'm glad you called me for this, but don't worry. She should be fine, we all have bad dreams sometimes."
"Yes sir," Peter replied as he hung up. The Professor's words had comforted him, he was still concerned for her but he knew that she was alright now as long as he was there. He walked back into her room and lay down next to her. The Professor was right, she was so comfortable with him, even in sleep she nestled into his chest and slept soundly all night.
The next morning Peter had dressed and came out into the kitchen where his mother was fixing coffee and breakfast. "Good morning," he said to her in Russian.
"Good morning sweetheart," she replied in the same language, "How did you sleep?"
"It was good, Jamie had a nightmare so I stayed with her for half the night," he said as he fixed himself a cup of coffee. He sat at the small table dressed in a pair of jogging pants and a long sleeve, very soft shirt. His messy hair spiked out all over the place and his face was very tired looking. His mother sat across from him a moment later and smiled. They sat silently each sipping their coffee until Peter caught his mother staring at him. "What?" he asked curiously with a cocked head.
"Nothing, you just look so happy, tired, but none the less happy," she said. She reached over the table and pat his face gently.
Peter grinned, "I am happy, and I have been for about two years now. She's the greatest thing in my life," he concluded with a loving look in his eyes.
"Mmm, something smells good," Jamie said as she stretched her arms. She wore a pair of jeans over her long-johns and one of Peter's shirts. Her hair was messy even though she had tried to pull it back into a short pony-tail. She gave Peter's mother a hug and then gave Peter a kiss and sat down, "Good morning," she said.
They ate breakfast together after Ilyana finally joined them. Peter's mother told Jamie stories of Peter's childhood and the tall strong man spent most of the morning red-faced. Peter's father came in, interrupting the conversation, and said something to Peter.
"What did he say?" asked Jamie when she saw Peter nod and begin to stand up.
"He just asked if I could help him with the truck. It's frozen in place."
"I got it," Jamie said cheerfully as she jumped up and put on her boots and hat. She followed Peter's father out the door into the snow.
"She's going get sick without a jacket on," Ilyana said as she put some food in her mouth.
"She doesn't get sick, she has healing powers so she doesn't even get a sniffle," Peter said with a grin.
Jamie came back in a few minutes later, stomping the snow off her boots, "That was fun," she commented.
Peter's dad came in a second after her with his eyes wide in disbelief. He said something in Russian and everyone but Jamie laughed. She looked at Peter who was still laughing but answered her look, "He wondered where you keep your strength," he said.
Jamie laughed and sat back down to finish her breakfast. After they finished eating Jamie helped Mrs. Rasputin clean up the table while Peter went out to the barn with his father to see some of the new renovation he had done. When he came back in Jamie had already changed into better clothes and Peter did the same. They decided to go out for a walk to see the land Peter's family owned. The snow was fresh from the night's storm as the couple walked and talked. Peter showed her all the places he used to play a child, naming hurts and talents he had discovered during his youth.
"Right here," he said and stopped.
Jamie turned to him, "What where?"
Peter grinned, "This is where I got my first kiss," he said with a blush. He became shier anytime he talked about his past and other girls, no matter how insignificant they were.
"Oh really now? Who with?" Jamie asked slyly.
"Her name was Natalia. She was in my class and I was walking her home from my house. We had been doing a project for science I think and it just kind of happened, she kissed me," Peter concluded with a nostalgic look in his eyes. He came back a moment later from his memories and didn't see Jamie anywhere, "Jamie?" he said and turned around. All of a sudden a snowball hit him in the back, and Peter heard a giggle. He spun back around where he heard he laugh but she wasn't there. He stood on his toes and looked around; Jamie sat on the limb of a tree high above Peter where he couldn't see her. She grinned and tried to contain her urge to laugh. She blended in with the tree and snow in her white jacket.
She sprang down when his back was turned, "Gotcha!" she said as she landed on his back. They tumbled to the ground together and played in the snow until it was time for them to go back for lunch. The rest of the day sped by as they wandered more around the fields and nearby forest. Soon evening came and they had another fun dinner and quiet night of sleep.
Kess and John had settled in comfortably in the average sized home of their hosts. Mr. and Mrs. Delgado had made up a bed for each of their guests in the two small guest rooms on the back of the house. Originally from Spain the family wanted to keep their home in the style of the villas in their old home. Ferdinand has moved his family to Egypt for business purposes and had been trying to deal with a three-year old daughter when a young girl had tried to grab a meal from the picnic basket they had set out for their own usage. Kesskallome had been 13 when she first met the Delgado's after running away from her own home in a small, primitive village in the desert lands of the country. She was taken in and lived with them for almost two years before her mutant secret was discovered by neighbors and she found herself running away once again. She had kept in touch with the first people to show her real kindness and had never forgotten them.
Rich green vines wound their up the trellis on the side of the house when Kess and John woke up early on their second morning in Cairo. Ferdinand was at work and Marian had taken Carolina to school before she went to her own job so the two were left to their own devices. "What shall we do today?" John asked as he made a bagel for himself and Kess.
"Well, since everyone else is out I think we could take a trip to my home village, if you want to that is," she replied from the bathroom as she finished braiding her hair and dressing herself. They both wore navy sweatshirt and jeans, because the temperature had dropped to a cool 53 degrees outside.
"Of course," he said as he sat down at the small breakfast nook with a pitcher of fresh squeezed orange juice, "I've been looking forward to that since we decided to come here."
Kess sat down next to him and started to spread cream cheese over her bagel, "Good," she said and smiled, "Because I think there is a bus going out that way around noon. We'll only have to walk a little bit and by now they have modernized that area at least some. It's going to be very different from the last time I was there." She had a dreamy look in her eyes that might also have had an element of nightmare with it as well. Many of her experiences before she had come to civilization had been unpleasant thought she wouldn't call her past a tragic one.
They finished eating and John grabbed his wallet for bus fare and went to the bus station. After a short argument about which bus to take they finally figured it out and began their trip. As the scenery outside changed from western and industrial to more primitive and harsh John said, "Boy this sure is different from back home."
"I'll say," Kess replied, "I think I've been spoiled by the city, there's no way I would want to go back to that lifestyle," she said as they passed a woman who was hand washing clothes in a bin of water with stones and hanging them over a line she connected between two small huts. Soon all the buildings had disappeared and all they could see was yellow sand for miles. After an hour they arrived at a tour stop where they got off. Most of the people on the bus with them had been there for a tour of some of the older villages but Kess and John were not and therefore they went their separate direction after renting lockers and leaving their jackets at the bus stop.
"How far is it?" John asked his girlfriend.
"Not that far actually, there's a small river that passes through this area just over that dune in front of us and the village is right next to it," she pointed ahead of them to a large wave of sand. It didn't take them long to get to the dune and once they were at the top Kesskallome opened her arms ahead of them, "Welcome to my home," she said and took John's hand as they continued down the sand dune. Below them was a small village where many women who looked almost like Kess when John had first met her were washing clothes or making meals for their families. There were no men around because they were all off at their small jobs in the tour stop or other places. Children ran and played and all in all it was not the poor, down cast place many would have thought it to be. Huts stretched a little ways off but not too far away from the river.
"Does anyone here remember you?" John asked as they walked through the village seemingly unnoticed by the residents.
"I doubt it," Kess replied, "I don't look anything like I did before."
"Do visitors come here often?" he asked, he was slightly surprised and almost unnerved by the fact that no one was paying any attention to their presence.
"I guess so," she said now noticing the same odd thing. "Probably, that bus we were on visits most of these places so I doubt we're anything new looking to them. Plus, most of the men seem to work away in the city so they're not as primitive as they were when I was here." They walked a little ways along the river until Kess stopped, "Look!" she said excitedly and dragged him off to a little hut that was slightly hidden in the shade by another sand dune. "That's my home," she said softly. They walked closer to see that a young woman was cooking while a little girl ran around the outside of the house chasing a bug. Kess remembered times when she had done the same though far away from her village where she didn't receive the shady looks other villagers gave her; she hadn't been able to control her powers until she was older and a snake-child wasn't really accepted immediately. "It's good to see this place again," she said, "It's been in my dreams recently." She furrowed her brow as they walked away back towards the dune they had come over. She looked back with a slight frown.
"What is it?" John asked. He knew her as well as he knew himself and his mental mutation gave him an even further insight to her thoughts and feelings.
"Nothing, just my dreams, nothing important," she replied, "Really. If it bothered me I would tell you, I promise," she looked meaningfully into his eyes to reassure him.
"Alright," he said still a bit unsure, "As long as you promise then I guess we can get back."
"Good," she said cheerfully and they started the walk back to the bus that would take them back to the villa where family awaited them.
Jamie woke earlier than anyone else and decided she would help a little with breakfast. She started squeezing the oranges Mrs. Rasputin had received as a gift from friends in the states just as she had seen the woman do the day before. It wasn't long until Jamie's nightshirt had become a sticky orange; she looked helplessly at the twisted orange peels that lay before her. She heard a soft laugh from behind her and turned to see Peter's mother holding her hand over her mouth to stifle her mirth.
"Do you need any help my dear?" she asked.
Jamie merely nodded and smiled. "I think I've made quite a mess," she said.
"Oh don't you worry," the aging woman said, "Oranges are tricky, here let me show you."
Peter woke to the delightful sound made when one woman enjoys the company of another woman. He got up to see his mother and girlfriend making breakfast for the family together in the kitchen. Ilyana jogged out from her room to see what was going on. "I guess we're getting a special breakfast today," she said.
"I guess so," Peter replied.
Jamie and Mrs. Rasputin served coffee and orange juice along with pancakes and cereal for Ilyana. Mr. Rasputin ate quickly before excusing himself to finish some farm work before their trip that evening. They were going to Moscow to get ready for the ball Peter and Jamie had promised to attend. Peter offered to help his father as soon as he was finished eating and his father accepted.
The three women were left at the table to talk and eat and as soon as Ilyana was finished she said to Jamie, "Would you like to come and see my room?" she asked tentatively.
Jamie nodded eagerly, "Of course," she said.
"You two go, I'll clean up here," Mrs. Rasputin said before either girl could start to offer help.
Ilyana took Jamie's hand and led her down the hall to her room. The inside was painted a light blue to match her eyes and posters of Brad Pitt were on the wall. "Peter sent them to me," she said, "He knows mamma and papa don't go to the city often so he's the one that keeps me connected to the outside." Jamie and Ilyana laughed for a moment while Ilyana went over to her dresser to pull out a thick book. "This is my photo album," she said as she handed the book to Jamie, "It's mostly me and Peter, the pictures in the back are of some of my friends."
Jamie looked through the book and once again felt a small pang of sadness when she saw the happy faces on brother and sister. She felt more a part of this family than anyone else she had ever met, except for Kess of course, and in some way knowing that they liked her so much made her feel better about not having one of her own. "You two look so cute," she said.
"Yeah," Ilyana replied, "I miss Peter a lot when he's not here. Maybe someday in the future he'll come back here and you two can live near us. Then I can see both of you all the time. Wouldn't that be great?"
"It would be wonderful," Jamie said. They spent the rest of the morning in Ilyana's room laughing and talking about Peter and other boys in Ilyana's life. Jamie learned all the gossip on who's who at the local school. After lunch Peter's mother declared that it was time for them all to pack so she could inspect their bags and make sure everyone had everything they needed. There was chaos in the small house as everyone was hurrying to grab tooth brushes and clothes that hadn't yet made it from the wash to the drawer. But by six o'clock everyone had their things ready and began the long ride into Moscow. At almost seven thirty they arrived at the five-star hotel called the Baltschug Kempinski, compliments of Professor Xavier. They walked into the hotel and were immediately met by the door man who offered to take their bags up to their room. The walls were tall and met by a gleaming white roof; their foot steps echoed across the marble floors as they walked to the concierge. Tall purple marble pillars rose up to meet golden and wooden handrails that extended the length of the second floor where they could see several people walking down the hall to their rooms, dressed in fine clothes. To the left a spiral staircase with white marble steps rose to the second floor, leading the eye to the large light fixtures made of elegant gold and bright round lights.
"Name?" said the concierge sweetly. A woman dressed in a white shirt with a brown name tag talked to Mr. Rasputin so they figured out their room number and accommodations. They were given a key and a bellboy led them up to the top floor of the hotel where he opened the door to their suite and left. The suite had a living room, three bedrooms, and a kitchenette.
Ilyana immediately leapt onto the large, soft sofa in the middle of the room and Mr. and Mrs. Rasputin went to look at their room. Mrs. Rasputin said something loudly in Russian from her room and Peter and Ilyana laughed. "What did she say?" Jamie asked.
"She's just astounded with this place. She never thought she's stay somewhere like this," Peter replied. "It is a beautiful hotel. I can't believe the Professor got this for us at so late a date."
Mr. Rasputin came out of the room with his wife in tow, they were both smiling. Peter's father was in shock at the majesty of the hotel and his mother was grateful for the opportunity to be in such a lovely place without having to pay. Ilyana ran to her room to look at it and unpack while Mrs. Rasputin inspected the kitchen. "This is, good I'll be able to cook still," she said.
"Mom," Peter said smiling, "We're in a beautiful five-star hotel in Moscow, you are not allowed to do any cooking for the duration of our stay."
Peter's mother slapped his chest and smiled, "Alright then. Oh my! Look at this beautiful tree!" In the corner of the living room was a tall, real tree already decorated with ornaments and lights next to a fire place that was smoldering quietly. "We will have to thank the Professor and buy him a good gift this year."
Ilyana came out of her room, "Mama can we go look in the stores?" she asked.
"Yes dear, but let's get settled first," replied her mother.
Peter sat on the couch and Jamie climbed onto his lap. "This is a really beautiful place," she said.
"I know," Peter replied, "It's like nothing Mother or Father have ever seen before."
"No I mean Russia in general," Jamie said, "I mean, I've been plenty of places so far but none of them really compare. Just look outside. You can see forever and it's like a light show out there. I'm going to have to buy fifteen more cameras for this. I wish Kess could see this."
"Well she will once we get home and you show her," Peter said.
"True, well, I think I'm going to go shower," Jamie said.
"Alright, I'll unpack our things," he replied as she went into the bathroom to shower. He grabbed his bag and her bag and took them into the room they would share. The room was almost twice the size of Peter's room back home. The bed had soft linen and fluffy pillows and there were two windows that stretched from the top of the room to the floor that looked out onto Moscow. Wispy, white drapes fluttered in the air conditioning and thick red and gold ones were tied to the side. Peter started putting their clothes away then went to watch TV with his mother on the sofa in the living room. Peter's father had taken Ilyana down to the stores so she could shop and he could get some fresh air, he hadn't been the capital in a long time.
"What's on your mind sweetheart?" Peter's mother asked while they sat.
"What? I didn't say anything," he replied with a laugh.
Mrs. Rasputin gave her son a knowing look, "I know you better than anyone even if you do save the world," she said with a motherly air to her voice.
Peter leaned forward and put his elbows on his knees, his hands clasped in front of his face as he sighed, sharing a smile with his mother who could already guess his thoughts.
Jamie came out of the bathroom after a long, hot shower wrapped in warm, fluffy towel. Peter was standing next to the window with his back to her, holding something she couldn't see. He was already dressed in his nice pants and shirt, his jacket sitting on the bed. "What ya got there, stud?" she asked catching him off guard.
He tucked whatever was in his hands into his pocket and whirled around, "Nothing, just looking at something I found in my coat." Peter looked at Jamie standing there in her towel with her hair wrapped up in another one, some loose strands sticking out from underneath. Water droplets still glistened on her smooth skin and she tilted her head with a smile.
"You smell good," he said.
"Thanks," she said blushing as she began to search through her bag for her make up bag, and early Christmas gift from Kess who knew she would need help.
Peter went into the bathroom to begin fixing his hair while Jamie, who had put on a robe, blow-dried hers. Peter kept glancing at her while she did so; it was the little things she did that made him happiest, like how she scrunched her nose whenever her hair flew the wrong way in the drier. Her hair was blown all over and she looked more than frustrated. The way she always bit her lip when she was shy or how she plays with her hair when she's bored or nervous. Jamie sighed with aggravation as she put down the brush. "What's wrong?" Peter asked.
"I wish Kess was here, she always helped me out with this," Jamie replied, "I guess I'll just have to manage." After she had pulled back the hair from the sides of her face with a diamond clip on each side she came out and grabbed her dress from the closet. "I'll be out in a minute," she sand and closed the bathroom door.
Peter was messing with his bow tie, trying to get it on straight when Ilyana came in, "Hey Peter," she said. She saw he was having problems with his tie and told him to sit down, "I'll help you with that," she said.
Peter sat on the bed and let her do her work. He watched her; unable to believe that she had grown up so much over the past year, it made him sad to think about what he was missing. "Where did you learn to do this?" he asked her when she had finished and he inspected the job in the mirror.
"Mamma taught me when I went to my first dance," she replied.
"Thanks," he said and hugged her with compassion and gratitude.
"Sure," she said, "Mamma wants to take some pictures of you and Jamie before you leave."
"Alright," Peter replied as she left the room. He put on his jacket and grabbed the camera checking his appearance one last time, "You about ready?" he called through the bathroom door.
"Yeah," Jamie replied and walked out. Peter's jaw dropped to the floor when he saw her. Her dress was a long, sleek black one with diamond straps that cut across the edge of her shoulder coming to a V at her breasts. A slight went from her thigh to the floor where little diamond sandals peeked out. Peter was lost for words at the beauty before him. She looked so perfect and he felt the same jitters he had when he had first met her. The dress emphasized every curve of her body giving her a deep elegant and feminine look. Three earrings, each a thin line of diamonds, dangled from her ears and reflected the light in rainbows. "Watch out James Bond, Peter Rasputin is here," she said as she looked at him in his tuxedo and bow tie.
"Peter, breathe," she said with a laugh seeing the look on his face.
"I can breathe?" he said sarcastically. Jamie picked up her black shawl and they went into the living room where the rest of the family was. Peter's mother made a fuss over them as she took the pictures and in a little while they were able to leave. They put on their coats and walked to the National Hotel where the Ball was held. There walk to the hotel was beautiful as a little snow fell around them. They put up the hoods on their coats so as to keep their hair and clothes dry. Tall buildings with spires could be seen and a greenish glow took over the city from the bright lights. The rich architecture of Moscow was evident in bright white buildings and red stone. Jamie's heals clacked on the pavement as they walked in happy silence, both of them taking in the view. At the National Hotel the doors were opened for them by two attendants and closed quickly to keep out the cold and snow.
"Welcome to the President's Ball and the National Hotel, may we take you coats?" one attendant asked. Peter and Jamie yielded their coats to the employees and walked through the next doors which led them to a huge room filled with music and light.
They walked out on the platform that was the top of a red carpeted staircase looking out over the other guests in their merriment. To their right a man at a podium stood and announced their names, "Here to represent Professor Charles Xavier from New York is Mr. Piotr Nicholavich Rasputin and Ms. James Logan. The couple walked down the stairs into the crowd. Jamie held tightly to Peter's hand so she didn't loose him. Representatives of all different countries from all over the world were present, ready to spend their holiday in Russia. The room was long and wide and on every side of the large dance floor in the center were tables where people sat and talked and sipped wine. At the end of the room there was a long table that faced out from the wall to the dance floor and that was here Peter and Jamie found their seats. Peter pulled out her chair and she sat down gracefully. He noticed how she exuded femininity and gentleness. She looked so sophisticated, he had never seen her in such a way. While she had been dressed up and beautiful at that fall dances they had attended she had never seemed so beautiful as she did now. It was an entirely different, mature beauty. They sat and talked quietly to each other while other people continued to come in. Women were dressed up so elegantly and Jamie thought about how Kess would have loved to have been there. Almost a half an hour later everyone had finally arrived and were talking. The President of Russia came in and everyone stood and clapped. Escorted by his officers he walked to the table Jamie and Peter sat at and took a place next to Jamie. "Welcome," he said loudly once everyone had quieted down, "I want to thank you all for coming to our ball and I hope you have a wonderful time. Dinner will be served soon and until then, please enjoy!"
After the president spoke and sat down again the orchestra started up with slow and soft waltzing music while most of the guests began to talk quietly. In a choreographed scene three doors to the left opened and out poured a hundred waiters each carrying a covered dish. Like ants they milled among the guests placing trays and taking off covers to reveal small salads for everyone. Just as quickly as they had come they left, back to the kitchens to prepare the next course.
Once he finished speaking to the man on his left the President turned and noticed Jamie and Peter who were talking softly and surveying the room. "Well hello, you must be Charles' representatives. How are you, Mr. Rasputin?" Their familiarity stemmed from Peter's past missions to Russia and his involvement with the President before.
"I'm fine sir, and yourself?" he replied.
"I am doing extremely well," turning to Jamie he asked, "And who is this beautiful woman?"
Jamie blushed a deep red and smiled shyly, "James Logan sir," she said and put out a hand to him. He took it and kissed it and they continued with some polite conversation for a few more minutes. The other diplomats at the table once again required the President's input and Jamie and Peter were able to start on their main course. A delicious steak dinner with all the sides one could imagine, after they finished their main course they ate desert which was a fluffy chocolate mousse and a bowl of strawberries.
John shook violently in his sleep. He woke up suddenly with his head pounding and the remains of a dream still coursing through his brain. He wiped the sweat from his face and tried to sort through what had disturbed him so much. As the images formed before his eyes again he concentrated, using his mutant abilities to bring to life the nightmare he had just had. He was in a cell, a dark murky place. He was also in a different body. His hands were sandy brown and furry and he could tell that he was quite a bit taller than he normally was even though his vision was hazy. He heard screams and angry shouts in voices that made his blood run cold. When the dream vision cleared slightly he could tell that he was strapped upright to a wall and before he could discern any more mind numbing shocks of electricity ravaged his body. John screamed in pain and as he did he heard a similar, though from a higher voice, scream. Instantly he recognized it as Kess and let his vision fade as he returned to reality. He flung open his door and ran into the room where Kess slept, across from him, though now she was in the throes of a horrible nightmare. She was drenched in sweat and her covers lay strewn across the floor while she moved violently, if John hadn't known better he would have thought she was having a seizure.
"Kess, wake up," he said urgently in her ear as he gathered her in his arms to stop her movements. "Kess it's just a dream." He hugged her tightly and eventually she woke up.
She pushed her hair out of her face and buried her face in John's bare chest. She was sobbing and shivering from the terrible dream still. "John," she said between breaths, "What's going on? Why are they doing that to him?" She wrapped her arms around his thin stomach and held on to him as if she would fall away if she didn't hold tight.
John hushed her gently and rocked her as he rubbed her back, her night shirt soaking in sweat. "Doing it to who?" he asked softly.
"My father," she choked through sobs.
"May I have this dance?" Peter asked as he stood up. They had finished their desert and as fewer and fewer tables held diners Peter decided to join them in converting to dancers.
Jamie looked up at him with a smile, "Of course," she accepted. She gave him her hand with all the elegance and grace a woman should have. He took it and felt the softness of her fingers against his skin as he led her through the crowd to the dance floor. Peter laid his hand on her lower back where the diamond straps met the silky black fabric and pulled her closer to him. Their bodies moved in perfect harmony with each other and the music. The music played slowly and Peter took the time to savor the smell of Jamie's hair and feel of her body next to his. They looked into each other's eyes as if time had stopped for no one but them. If no one around them knew them, they knew they were very deep in love. As big as Peter was he was a nimble dancer and their difference in size had no effect on the beautiful flow of their dance.
It was three long waltzes before either of them said a single word. Peter looked down at Jamie whose head rested on his chest and contemplated for a few minutes. "I love you," he said softly.
Jamie looked up with a smile, "I love you too," she replied, slightly surprised by the timing of the statement.
Peter smiled and watched her with every ounce of compassion he had in his soul. "Can I ask you something?" he questioned.
"Sure," Jamie replied. Her stomach did a slight flip because of his awkward behavior. For some reason she felt like he was on the verge of saying something important.
"You are the greatest thing that has ever come into my life. You mean the world to me Jamie. You are the most perfect woman I have ever met. You make me a better person and you make me feel like the strongest man in the world. Yeah I was before I met you, but you know what I mean. These past two years have been the greatest of my life." Jamie giggled a little before he continued. "I could never be happier with any other person as long as I live. You keep my heart beating. You make me feel like I'm home, no matter where I go." When Peter finished speaking he let go of Jamie and bent down on one knee and took out a small black box. He opened the black box to reveal a beautiful diamond ring. Jamie stopped breathing. It was a delicate silver ring with a single diamond. "Jamie, will you marry me?"
John soothed Kess until she quieted down and was able to lay back and breathe. He pet her long black hair that was now tangled and wet from sweat. "It was just a dream Kess, it's ok," he said softly in her ear.
Kess shook her head and moved aside to make room for John, who lay down next to her and covered her up in the covers and his arms. "But I've had it for the past week," she said, "It feels too real. I can feel what he's going through. You know it's not the first time that's happened either."
She looked up pleadingly into his eyes and John sighed, "I know," he said, "I had the dream too. I wasn't sure who it was until now, but there's nothing you can do about it now. We have no clue where he is, if he's anywhere. Look, in the morning we'll call the professor and ask him. But for now relax, it's two days before Christmas, you're with family, you're with the one person who loves you more than anything." He smiled encouragingly and it worked because she smiled back. "And he will never leave you."
Kess wrapped her arms around John's neck and moved closer to him, "I know you won't," she said, "I love you John."
"I love you too Kess." He held her close all night and her dreams were safe while he was there.
Jamie put her hand over her mouth and then her chest as the realization of his request hit her. Without a moment's pause she softly said, "Yes," as tears formed in her eyes. She put out her left hand and Peter slipped the ring on it. "Oh Peter, I can't believe this," she said as she admired the ring.
Peter stood up and hugged Jamie tightly followed by a kiss that seemed to make time stop. "I promise I will make you the happiest woman in the world," he whispered in her ear lightly making chills run up and down her spine.
Jamie looked up at him, into his deep eyes, and out a hand on his cheek, "You already have," she replied and drew him in for another kiss. All of a sudden their kiss was stopped by a huge explosion from the front doors. Peter held on to Jamie with his back to the explosion sheltering her from the split boards and debris flying across the room. Once the dust settled they could see men in black uniforms much like those of a S.W.A.T. team, hurry in with guns and helmets. The screaming guests moved to the back of the room away from the intruders and Jamie turned to Peter, "Get the President somewhere and keep him safe," she said. She quickly calculated roughly 50 men pouring through the opening where the doors had been and felt the anger growing inside her. She knew there was only one was to take them out and she was prepared for anything that happened. She turned her head to look behind her at Peter. She noted absentmindedly his quickened heart beat and the flush of blood to his face and felt a pang of sadness. She'd never fought in real life before, in a situation as dire as this one at least, and to think what might happen to Peter if she didn't succeed was unbearable to think about. She hardened her nerve and said, "When I tell you, hit the lights."
Peter saw the determination in her eyes and nodded, "Are you sure?" he asked concerned as she walked away from him and towards their enemy.
"Yeah just find the President," Jamie called over her shoulder as she moved like hungry hound towards the men. Her dress was now covered in an ashy grey and floated around her feet like a cloud. Her hair was a mess and it all added to her bloodthirsty look. As guests ran past her she slashed out her claws and her eyes blackened over. The laser pointers of the enemies found their way to her as she walked and one anxious soldier pulled his trigger. The room went silent.
Peter could feel his blood pulse through his veins and his heart slam against his ribs with each passing second. A cold fear washed over him and he lost all control of his thoughts. His mind raced back to every memory he had ever had with Jamie, holding onto each one like a treasure in case they were all he had left of her when the lights came back on.
Jamie looked at her shoulder. The bullet had gone straight through it but she didn't feel any pain. The adrenaline coursing through her made her body feel numb and cold. As the wound began to heal itself she grinned evilly at the soldier, a look that sent shivers down his spine. "You're going to need more than that to stop me," she said in a bone chilling voice.
When he heard Jamie's voice relief let Peter breathe again and he searched for the Russian President. "Mr. President," Peter said running.
"What's she doing? She'll be killed!" the President replied in an urgent voice. The last thing he wanted was a person being murdered at his winter ball.
Peter couldn't help but smile a little, "Don't worry, she's got it taken care of," he replied, "Come on, we have to get you somewhere safe. Where are the light panels?"
"This way why?" replied one of the President's body guards.
Peter looked in the direction he pointed, "Just show me, and stay close Mr. President."
"Wait a sec, what makes you think you can protect him. How do we know you're not on the other side?" another body guard asked suspiciously.
Peter sighed annoyed but the President answered for him, "He is a student of Xavier's. He is entirely trustworthy, I'd rather know my life was in his hands than yours." He glared at his body guards who wavered at his wrath.
"Plus, I'm indestructible," Peter muttered as he changed into his Colossus form much to the surprise of the body guards and the admiration of the President.
Jamie stood stone still as the men surrounded her. One soldier pointed his gun at her with the laser pointing directly to the center of her forehead. "State your name," he growled.
"My name is Hellsbane," Jamie replied icily, "Colossus!" she shouted. Peter hit the lights and the room went dark. All that anyone could hear was the sound of metal on metal and the ripping of clothes. Guns fired and women screamed for what seemed like an eternity. Finally everything calmed down and Peter turned the lights back on. The bodies of the soldiers were strewn across the floor and Jamie was kneeling in the middle of all the destruction on the floor.
Peter hurried to her leaving the President with his body guards, and knelt down with her. "Are you ok?" he asked softly.
Jamie hung her head and a tear or two fell to the floor. She was rubbing the ring violently trying to clean it of blood. "I ruined it," she said in a low, miserable voice.
Peter pulled her close and whispered, "That doesn't matter Jamie. All I care about is who's wearing it," he said comfortingly. At that moment she broke down into full tears and fell into Peter's open arms. He wrapped himself around her and tried to warm her shaking, sweating body. He picked her up and carried her out of the sea of death.
Later the Russian police came by to question the guests. Peter stood with Jamie close to him using his arm to hold herself up. The President walked up to them solemnly, "I have spoken to the department's Chief, and you won't be facing any charges. I told them you were merely defending me and my guests," he said mostly to Jamie.
There was a silence between them for a few moments before Peter answered for Jamie, "Thank you Mr. President. Who were those people?"
The President sighed and rubbed his forehead, "I have no idea my friend, but if I find out anything I will be sure to inform you. You both have my deepest thanks. I will make a point to call Charles and tell him of your heroism. Please try to enjoy your remaining days in my country, do not let this situation over power your vacation. The bad times have passed for now." He tried to give Jamie an encouraging smile and clasped a hand with Peter.
"You are welcome sir," Peter replied, "From both of us," he added with a sad look at Jamie's blank façade. The President nodded and walked away with his guards in tow.
Peter put an arm around Jamie and walked her away from the commotion and toward a park that would lead them back to their hotel. They walked in silence for a while, watching the freshly fallen snow in rolling hills around them. It layered the bushes and flowers in a crystal white blanket keeping it safe until the loving hands of spring would wake them again. Peter felt like Jamie was still shaken from the attack and stopped halfway through the park. He turned a looked at her searching her downcast eyes for any sort of hint as to how he could make her feel better. Jamie looked down at the ground with tears beginning top form again. "I'm sorry," she whispered, "You had this whole thing planned and I ruined it…"
Peter took her chin in his hand and lifted her face to look at him, "We can fix it, start over," he replied solemnly.
"How?" Jamie asked confused, the tears starting to break free of her eyes and one rolled away down her cheek.
Peter wiped the tear away and took the ring from her finger. He grabbed a pile if snow in his large hand and stuck the ring in the middle of it, rubbing it around in his large hands until the snow melted and only the ring was left, free of all the blood and looking as perfect as it had when he had first laid eyes on it. He bent down on one knee and looked up into her eyes with the same look he always used, one that was filled with nothing but love and devotion. "Jamie I love you, I loved you the first moment I saw you. And nothing would make me happier than spending the rest of my life with you," he took her hand in his, "Jamie will you marry me?" Standing in the snow Jamie looked like the angel he always knew her to be. Her white fur coat looked like wings and the snow that fell gently on her hair gave her a crown of shining light; the view before him too his breath away.
Jamie's heart melted to see the one man she loved with all her heart there in the snow asking for her hand. Peter was the only person who knew all her flaws and yet loved her enough to marry her still. He was the only person who saw those flaws as little ways that made her different from other people and therefore a more perfect being. She started to cry again, but not tears of sadness or fear from the night, tears of joy and complete happiness. "Yes," she said with small voice, "But I don't really like you that much," she added sarcastically.
Peter laughed out loud as he placed the ring back on her finger where it belonged though it felt like the first time. He stood up and brushed his hand gently across her cheek and kissed her softly and tenderly. They knew that if there was anything in the world that was real it was at least their love for each other. The one constant in Jamie's life would always be Peter just as she would always be the one tender and loving side of him. They held each other in the snow and Peter put his forehead to Jamie's, "Merry Christmas Jamie," he whispered.
"Merry Christmas Peter," she replied.
They walked back to the hotel with their arms around each other, kissing every so often. Once they were outside the door to their room Peter took Jamie's hands in his own. "Don't say anything about the engagement," he whispered, "Let's act cool and then surprise them. They don't have a clue, but I know my mother will be just as excited as you were." Jamie nodded barely able to control her joy.
In the room Peter's family sat on the couch drinking hot chocolate and watching a Christmas movie in Russian. When she heard the door open Peter's mother turned around and almost spit out her drink. She jumped up and ran to her son and his fiancée and put her arms around Peter then hugged Jamie close. "You're home safe!" she said with evident relief, "We saw on the news what happened, I've been worried out of my mind!"
Peter laughed at his mother's reaction, "Well you didn't seem too worried sitting there watching 'A Christmas Story'," he replied.
Mrs. Rasputin made a face, "It was to calm your father's nerves," she replied, "But none of it matters now that you're here, safe and sound."
She noticed the blood that still clung to Jamie's hair and skin and a look of horror crossed her face but Jamie just smiled encouragingly and shook her head. "I'm just fine," she said warmly.
Illyana had finished her hot chocolate and jumped into her brother's arms in the mean time. "So how was the ball?" she asked excitedly, "Did anything special happen?"
Peter cocked his head and his mother shook hers. They hadn't let Illyana watch the news show that told about the attack at the ball. Peter nodded back and decided not to say anything about it; after all it was nothing compared to their real news. He looked at Jamie who was clearly having a hard time keeping their secret to herself with Mrs. Rasputin's arm around her waist. He smiled and looked to the floor then up to his father, who was standing quietly behind his daughter. "Jamie and I are getting married," he said simply.
His father smiled and nodded his head proudly. However Peter's mother had a much different reaction. She covered her mouth after a loud gasp and threw her arms around Jamie. "Welcome to our family!" she cried with tears of happiness, "Illyana you have a new sister!"
Illyana hugged her brother then proceeded to attack Jamie as she and her mother asked Jamie about every detail of the proposal. Oohs and Ahhs escaped their mouths when she showed them the gorgeous ring on her finger. Peter's father walked over to his son and shook his hand strongly. "She's a wonderful girl," he told his son in Russian, "I couldn't have asked for a better daughter-in-law. I know you will be happy with her. You are a strong man and she will be a strong wife."
"Thank you Father," Peter replied giving his dad a hug, "I know I'm the happiest man in the world right now and I will be for the rest of my days." As the night wore on they talked more and more about the engagement and traded Christmas gifts with each other. All in all it was the greatest Christmas Jamie had ever had.
The nightmare that woken Kess up two days before Christmas came back to her every time she fell asleep, even during the short cat naps she took with John on the idle days before the celebration. During her waking hours she was able to forget about it and enjoy the time with her family and boyfriend but at night John was never far away and she always woke up by his side. He could sense everything about her and as soon as her brain waves began to move in a disturbed pattern he was there. She couldn't have asked him to do anything else for her. On Christmas Eve Day they both woke up late to a cool morning and had breakfast outside with the Cortez's. They spent all day in separate rooms wrapping gifts until lunch time came around and they went for a picnic in the park at Carolina's request. Once they returned home they finished their gift wrapping and Kess went to the kitchen to help Marian start cooking the ham for their Christmas dinner. John sat with Carolina on his lap, the young girl had taken to him almost instantly, and he was reading her the story of Rudolph and the elves. Ferdinand was finishing Christmas lights outside and at around seven thirty they all came inside to sit down for dinner. They didn't get up from the table until it was almost ten thirty and Carolina was yawning and dozing where she slept. Her father picked her up for bed but she asked for a bedtime story from Kess who agreed. "I'll be back in a little bit," she said and emptied her plate in the garbage before washing it and following the sleepy child to her room.
Marian got up and began to clear the table and John helped her. He had gotten used to the people he was spending the holiday with and he knew why Kess loved them so much. They were very family oriented and tried to keep as much joy in their lives as possible even though Ferdinand had an extremely demanding job with the local government. As John stood washing dishes at the sink Mr. Cortez joined him. He looked to his wife who smiled and walked away leaving John with the impression that they had some sort of communication he wasn't aware of even though it involved him.
Ferdinand took up a towel to dry what John washed and spoke, "You're a good man John," he said casually, "I can see why Kess loves you so much."
John smiled though he knew in his bones there was more on Ferdinand's mind than just compliments, "Thank you," he replied, "I love her very much as well."
Ferdinand nodded, "I know, I can see it in your eyes. I'm not mutant with extraordinary abilities to see minds but it's plan to know what's in your heart. That's what I wanted to talk about, she's like a daughter to me you know."
John put down the dishes and turned to Ferdinand, "Yes sir, and I have no ill intentions towards her, she's my whole world," he said reassuringly. The last thing he wanted was to be on bad grounds with the man who had raised Kess for her hardest times.
The older man nodded, "Oh I know, there's no ill will between us at all. I don't want to come off as an over protective father. I know her life is her own, you're both twenty years old now, you're not children and capable of making your own choices. I have all faith in you. My only point is that if, someday in the future, you decide to take things to a more permanent level. I'd like to be involved. She is almost a daughter and I feel like her father sometimes, or the closest thing she has to one. And I worry about her." Ferdinand wore a smile but a soft and understanding one though there was still the commanding fatherly air about him.
John smiled and nodded, "Yes sir, I will definitely come to you before I do anything."
"And do you have any plans of the sort?"
John smiled deeper and flushed a shade of red. When he looked up his brown eyes were alight with excitement. "Yes I do, but I haven't made good on them yet. But when the time comes I will seek your advice and blessing. I want the best for both Kess and I; I would never want to lead her into anything that was unwise."
Ferdinand smiled and patted a hand on John's back, "Yes a good man, a very good man," he said, "Well Marian and I will be waiting for the day when we speak on this matter again. I suppose you will be getting tired by now though, I know I am. So I wish you a Merry Christmas and I will see you in the morning."
While Ferdinand had his hand clapped on John's back Kess came back into the kitchen with Marian behind her, "What are you two talking about?" she asked and went to John's side.
"Just thanking this young man for his good manners," Ferdinand replied, "Now we go to bed," he said and kissed Kess on the forehead before taking Marian's hand and heading off to their room, leaving the couple in the kitchen alone.
Kess looked to John, "I have a feeling it was more than that," she said suspiciously, "Are you hiding anything from me?"
John kissed her cheek and led her down the hall to their room, "Of course not my dear, why would I do that?"
Kess relaxed some, "Well because you're a conniving snake," she said matter-of-factly and wrapped and arm around his waist.
John grinned, "Me? You're the snake," he said and pinched her side.
Kess' hair took on a thicker texture and her eyes blazed yellow a bit, "That I am," she replied, "So if you are hiding anything you had better be prepared to deal with me when I find out."
"Yes dear," he said and kissed her softly before going off to change for bed. Once he came back Kess was in their room in her nightgown looking in the mirror at her teeth. He came up behind her and wrapped and his arms around her waist and rested his head on her's. "Inspecting the pearly whites?" he asked nuzzling her neck.
Kess turned around with an excited look in her eyes, "Look," she said, "Venom." John took a closer look at her teeth and noticed that the teeth which became fangs when she took on her Medusa form were now extended. She pushed on one fang a little and a milky white fluid dripped from the tip. "I'm changing," she said and her eyes sparkled.
John smiled wide, "This is going to make Danger Room sessions a lot more entertaining, especially if you're paired with Matt." John winked and wrapped Kess up in a hug and she squealed.
"Oh what a wonderful Christmas gift," she said, "Thank you Lord."
John walked her over to the bed that they shared now that every night it was impossible sleep. Kess curled up in John's arms and was soon breathing softly in a deep sleep with no signs of a nightmare at all. John was able to fall asleep as well after making sure that she was sleeping soundly.
They awoke the next morning to a thud and the happy calls of Carolina as she jumped into their bed and urged them to wake up. "It's Christmas!" she shouted and pulled Kess' hand out of bed and into the living room where Ferdinand and Marian were sitting on the couch drinking coffee. The gifts they had all set out for each other were under the tree and within minutes Carolina had torn into the huge stuffed snake Kess had bought for her while they were out shopping the week before. It was a beautiful Christmas morning and it was noon before any of them made a move to get out of their bed clothes. Kess showered and played with Carolina while John started packing some of their things. Since Kess was so picking about packing he decided to get a head start.
Kess came back in to see him that afternoon and helped him get all their things in order and leave out clothes for the next morning when they would be flying home. "Have you had fun?" she asked while she pulled her fingers through his shaggy brown hair.
"Absolutely," he said and planted a kiss on her nose, "This has been a wonderful Christmas, I'm looking forward to a life time of them." He smiled and thought about ensuring that he would have a lifetime of Christmases with Kess.
"Have you called your family?" she asked. She was a little worried about taking him so far away from his family on such a special holiday. "Did they miss you?"
"Yes to both questions," he replied, "And they missed you too, especially Holly."
"Alright, well I say we visit them once we get back home, I have things for your mom and sister that I don't want to mail. Plus I miss them too, I love your family. We still have a lot of time off before we have any assignments."
"I'd love to visit them, I can't wait. It's getting late now though, we should get ready for bed, our plane leaves at 6." They both changed into their night clothes again and wished the Cortez family goodnight. Carolina wouldn't be up to see them off and Ferdinand would be in the office even before they left so they said their last farewells and received hugs all around. The next morning Marian drove the couple back to the airport and watched their plane until it was out of sight. Kess slept most of the way home and was fully rested for the happy reception they had back at the mansion.
Ororo met them at the New York Airport and Kess hugged her tightly. "I missed you so much, Merry Christmas," she exclaimed. John shook Storm's hand and wished her a good year as well before they all rode back to the Institute and settled back in.
After they each unpacked in their separate rooms the Professor called for them to go to his office. John knocked on the door followed by Kess and opened it to see Xavier. "Welcome home," he said happily, "It's never the same Christmas without everyone here."
"Thank you Professor, we missed you too, Ferdinand thanks you for taking such good care of us," Kess said and grinned.
"Of course, of course," Xavier said, "I have a question to ask you both, it's not too serious but I don't want to put you into a situation you aren't ready for."
John looked from the professor to Kess and then back, "Well it's sound sort of serious sir, what's it you want to ask?"
Charles smiled, "We are receiving a large number of new students in June and we really don't have enough rooms left to accommodate them all. We need to cut down and have more people to a room. There's smaller ones upstairs away from the dormitories though that we may use. Since you've both finished your schooling here would you be open to sharing one of those smaller rooms? You've seen Jean and Scott's, it's much like that." He laced his fingers together with the serious look that was on his face too often.
John smiled relieved, "Oh I thought you were going to ask us something much more dangerous. I have no problem at all about that, if you're willing to Kess I think we're capable of sharing a room."
Kess nodded in agreement, "Absolutely, when should we move our things?" She put her hand in John's and smiled up at him, leaning her head on his arm affectionately.
"Anytime you feel ready too would be fine," Charles replied, "But we're doing some renovations up there until about mid-February, so I'd wait until after then."
The pair nodded and thanked him before leaving. Kess squeezed John's hand, "This should be fun, I've never had a roommate before," she said, "Especially not one as cute as you," she winked.
John smiled, "Well I know I'm looking forward to sharing a room with someone as beautiful as you are. But maybe you should refrain from waking me up at your usual sunrise." Kess pinched his arms and smiled evilly as they walked down the hall together. "I wonder how Jamie and Peter's vacation went," he said after a moment.
"Me too, we haven't talked to them almost the whole time, I miss Jamie. But they arrive tomorrow, I guess we'll find out then," Kess replied and smiled wide.
The next day Peter and Jamie spent the whole day with each other and his family. It was the last days of their vacation and too soon they would be returning back to New York, and leaving the beautiful landscape and amiable people behind. Jamie had almost seven full cameras of pictures to take back home and Peter's mother had requested a copy of every single picture. As the evening of their last day came they packed their bags and started to say good bye. Peter's mother hugged Jamie who had started crying. She had never been around people as loving as Peter's family. She loved being with them in their inviting atmosphere and pleasant company. She had no family at all, at least not one she knew of. Peter started the jet and Jamie waved urgently until the Rasputin's were not distinguishable from the other dark spots on the snow in the failing sunlight. Peter put the plane on autopilot once they got going and he and Jamie sat in the back playing cards and eating oatmeal and hot chocolate. They discussed the trip and daydreamed about the future. Already Jamie had images of dresses and wedding colors in her mind. "I can't wait to start our life together," she told Peter who nodded, "It's going to be the greatest adventure of all. She snuggled up to him to take a nap until the alarm on the plane went off telling them they were close and Peter needed to take the controls again.
Peter landed the plane and Jamie gathered up their bags and trash and the hatch opened. Applause met them of the cheers of their happy friends swirled around them. Everyone who had returned from their own vacations was there to greet them. They had many congratulations on the Russian attack and their success. The story had been kept surprisingly quiet but of course The Professor always knew what was going on. Peter and Jamie smiled all the way to where the adults stood. People began to dwindle away and go back to their activities and the couple was left alone with the adults, Kess and John. Kess threw her arms around Jamie, "Oh my god, I missed you so much! I can't wait to hear about your trip!" Then she let Jamie breathe and turned to give Peter a hug.
"She's been like this all day," John said and he shook and hand with Jamie then Peter, "She really missed you."
"Hey kid," Logan said stepping forward from behind Charles. Despite his stoic demeanor Jamie threw her arms around Logan and he smiled and hugged her back. "I see you made it out ok."
"Definitely," Jamie said, "But we missed you all SO much!"
After pleasantries were shared Peter cleared his throat to get their attention, "Well I know that some people know what I am about to say and some don't, but…" he looked at Jamie and smiled.
"We're engaged!" Jamie exclaimed unable to hold it in.
Kess gasped loudly and jumped on Jamie. Jean and Ororo came over as well and Jamie showed off her ring and looked happily to Peter as she told them about the proposal. John and Scott pat Peter's back and congratulated him. It was mid afternoon before any of them calmed down enough to let Jamie and Peter unpack. "Before you go to bed come to my study," Charles called to everyone who agreed without another thought.
After dinner where Peter announced the engagement yet again they went to his study. "What's up Professor?" Peter asked once everyone got in.
"Well I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas," Xavier began.
"Oh come one Professor, that's now what you asked us down here for," John said.
Charles nodded, "You're right John, and I'm hoping you know that from instinct not from mutant abilities," he winked to his fellow telepath. "I want to give you all a very short briefing on a new mission. It's in Canada and you will all be attending. That's really all I have to say, some of you are more familiar with the spot than others, but be prepared for more calls like this in mean time. Good night all."
They filed out of the room and Jamie took Kess' hand excitedly, "This will be my first mission," she said.
Kess nodded with gleaming eyes, "I know, but don't worry you'll do great. It's going to be fun I bet, I love going on missions. We get to kick some ass."
John took Kess' hand, "Now, now, don't spark any ideas," he said, "It's probably just going to be observation."
"We'll see," Peter said putting a hand on Jamie's shoulders, "But we'll be through the whole thing together." The four of them walked down the hall to their rooms where they would swap stories the rest of the week.
