X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall
Chapter Seventy Four
Author's Word: Happy Post-Thanksgiving, everybody! I hope everyone had mad fun shopping on Black Friday. I know I did. Got a brand new coat along with some lovely attire for my upcoming birthday next month. Now, I know all of you hate this after vacation Monday deal so I thought this would be a great cheer factor. Enjoy and please review!
Sunset arrived at a quarter to eight, illuminating the land with streamers of pink, orange, purple, and yellow. On the blue checkered picnic blanket, Emma lolled against Charles' chest, his arms wound around her slim waist.
Are you still hungry?
No I'm fine, Emma returned.
You know you must keep your strength up. You're not at one hundred percent yet.
Yes, dear. Emma shifted to prop her head up on his right shoulder. My fateful worrywart.
My eternal pain in the side. Charles dipped his upper body to better cuddle her. Done brushing him, Joey pecked Xander on the nose and returned to his parents. He stretched out on the blanket, placing his head in Emma's blue jeaned lap.
She stroked the yellow strands on his head, so much like her own. "How is Xander doing?"
"He's happy now. I gave him four sugar cubes."
"You two will see much more of each other now that summer is upon us," Charles guaranteed. "For now, I think we should head back."
When Emma started gathering stray rubbish from their picnic, Joey took it from her. "Don't worry, Mum. I'll help Dad."
"Thank you, Treasure." Emma shot a mild glare over the child's head to Charles. You have him in on this conspiracy.
It's no fault of mine that your son loves his mother.
By the time they pulled into the garage, Joey had become heavy headed. Charles removed the keys from the Rolls-Royce and collected him from the back while Emma took the empty picnic basket.
He slipped one arm across Emma's shoulders as they went up. Did you have fun today?
You know I did. It was exactly what I needed, sugar.
Alex walked upon them from the opposite end of the main level. "There he is." He held his arms out for Joey. "Fork him over."
Charles transferred the boy to the teen's hold. "See if you can get him into the tub, but don't get him too riled, Alex."
"Sir, yes sir. I'll dunk Scottie in with him." Alex hugged Joey close and carried him upstairs, asking him all about his day.
IIIIIII
Applying coral pink nail polish to the bitty fingernails, Emma listened to the little girl speak.
"So Britney stepped on Sonia's foot and Sonia kept saying she did it on purpose because Britney wants the lead in the new recital."
"Isn't Britney the daughter of that tyrannical Elaine Calder?"
"She sure is," Becky nodded.
"I wouldn't put any attempt at sabotage past that family." Emma finished with Becky's second pinky. "Hold those apart."
Becky spread her hands across the vanity, keeping her fingers separated.
Spraying the anti-frizz serum, Emma used the brush to go through the forest of curls.
Her private line went off and Emma sighed in annoyance. "Business hours, people…" She reached over and picked up the white receiver. "Hello?" Her eyes widened. "Chris? What do you think you're doing calling me at this ti— what? Chris, if this is some kind of joke, I will- well, I am just a tad busy these days. Look, I will see, okay? No promises whatsoever. Call you tomorrow."
"Who was that, Auntie Em?" Becky asked one she hung up.
"No one of particular relevance." Emma returned to brushing her hair. "Now, tell Auntie more about dance class."
IIIIIII
Extreme laughter signaled the arrival of the four youngest mutants and took away from Hank and the headmasters' discussion over the progress of the new security system. Frank, Scott, Becky, and Joey darted around the dining table.
"Children," Charles attempted to address over the volume of the frolicking. "Stop this and calm yourselves."
Forming a fist, Erik raised every utensil and slammed them back down. The harsh clatter caused the young ones to pause and stand with sheepish hands behind their backs.
"Don't behave as if you're deaf," Erik said sternly. "You know you heard Charles."
Charles added, "You also know better than to run in this house."
Frank quipped, "The neighbors kicked us out of their house."
"We're sorry," Scott apologized, giving Frank a light tap to the ankle with his foot. "We didn't mean to get so carried away."
"It's alright, Scott," Charles softened. "Now sit down. Breakfast will be ready shortly."
The boys took their regular chairs while Becky went around to smooch the cheeks of all the men.
When she got to Erik, he held her a moment and zeroed in on one of her hands. "Did you forget to wash this morning?"
"No, silly," Becky smiled. "Auntie Em painted my nails for me."
"You're too young for these ridiculous decorations," Erik said.
"And it's also completely unnecessary," Hank tacked on.
"Now, now, you two." Charles tugged Becky down into his lap. "Let her alone. A bit of polish won't do her any harm."
Erik did not look convinced. "Humph. Until unwanted males take notice."
Scott used his palm to mask his smirk.
"Have you seen your aunt this morning, Princess?" Charles inquired. "She's usually down here by now."
"Nope." Becky adjusted Charles' shirt sleeve. "She acted a little funny last night after that Chris guy called."
Charles' eyebrow popped. "Chris? You're positive she said Chris?" Becky nodded and Charles stood her before getting up himself. "Excuse me a moment."
Hank and Erik exchanged a look.
Frank seemed to voice their thoughts with, "Who the fudge monkeys is Chris and why is he calling Charles' lady?"
"Go see what's keeping Sean and Alex." Even as he gave the order, Erik could not keep the same question out of his mind.
IIIIIII
Stretched out diagonally in her queen sized bed, Emma hugged an ivory silk pillow, her gaze fixed on the new day taking place beyond her window.
A knock came to her door, but she sensed the individual far ahead of time. Come in, sugar.
Charles entered and shut the door before sitting across from her on the foot of the bed. Why did you not tell me your brother telephoned you?
Emma sat up against the headboard. She's done it, Charles. That wretched woman.
Who?
My mother- she's dead. She planned this… then again, no. She really isn't that clever.
What? Charles reacted. When? How?
Yesterday or the night before, something like that. The "official" cause of death is a stroke. Emma released a light feminine snort. Heaven only knows how much Father paid to have that autopsy report misplaced.
Charles touched her shoulder. Are you alright?
I would be if I'd been smart and not given out my number to next-of-kin. Chris is insistent I fly to Boston for this funeral. He doesn't want to combat the rest of them alone. Oh this is so typical of our mother. No regard for anyone, least of all her children.
Taking her into his arms, Charles asked Do you want me to go?
I want to turn back time and move in with a wolf pack, she pouted.
Charles smiled. You're really more of a white fox.
Emma gazed up at him in adoration. I suppose I can fly in, call my older sister a cow, snag the heirlooms I want, and be gone.
And I will be at your side throughout.
Oh Charles. Emma flung her arms around his neck. Thank you.
Blonde hair tickling his nose, Charles sighed peacefully and kept his protective hold over the petite body.
IIIIIII
After breakfast, Charles and Emma went with Erik into the metal wielder's den.
"It shouldn't be more than a few days," Charles told his brother. "Do you think you can manage here?"
"Don't worry about that," Erik told him. "You have much bigger concerns." He went around his desk and over to where Emma stood. "I cannot express how sorry I am."
"Thank you, but it's fine," she said. "I'm still psychically under the weather, but Charles is my backup telepath for this little Frost gathering."
Erik clarified, "I meant for your mother's passing."
"Oh." Emma hummed from the back of her throat. "Well, some things are unavoidable."
"Joey?" Charles detected suddenly.
The small boy poked his head in from the hall. "…Hi." He walked in, uncertainty on his face. "Daddy, I want to go with you and mommy. Please? May I?"
Charles sighed and lowered to his level. "Little one, things are not happy at all with your mother's family right now and—"
Charles, Emma interjected, please. It will help having him there.
Considering it, Charles agreed, alright.
Emma walked over and hugged Joey. "I'm so happy to have you with me. We should start packing. Come on, Treasure."
Joey smiled and left out of the den with her.
"Lab Rat." Charles looked to Erik. "Keep a close watch over her. When we went into Becky's mind, I found out some thought's Emma's entertained."
Charles came closer upon him. "What do you mean?"
IIIIIII
Feet kicking, Joey squirmed under the restrictive crisscrossed safety belt.
Joey, leave the restraint be, Charles directed from his pilot's chair.
The nine-year-old dropped his hands and let his arms dangle.
"It won't be much longer Treasure, Emma promised… Unfortunately.
A teeny chuckle echoed from Charles.
Emma turned to him from where she sat beside. "Just what is so funny?"
"You remind me of one of the children before Hank gives them a shot."
"I could use a shot of something," she mumbled.
When Charles at last landed at the Boston airbase, he went to unstrap Joey. "Remember, little one. We are guests in the Frost home. I want you to be polite and respectful at all times."
"Yes, Daddy," Joey replied obediently.
"He'll never fit in with that attitude," Emma quipped, proceeding down the stairs. She immediately spotted the taller head of blonde so much like her own awaiting them. "Chris?"
"Emmie!" He hurried up and gave her a big hug. "Oh it's been too long."
"I know it has. Is Adrienne here?" Emma asked with a slight face.
Chris gave her a meaningful stare. "Why do you think I wanted you here so desperately?" He watched a man and child descend down the jet's steps. "And I take it this is…"
"Charles," Emma happily filled in. "And our dear Joey."
Joey supported in one arm, Charles walked up with his free hand out. "It's wonderful to meet you, Chris. I've heard so much."
Chris shook with him briefly. "Likewise. I'll get your luggage. We need to get back." He walked over behind the aircraft to the baggage holders made onto the bottom of the jet.
"Right," Charles sighed softly, giving Joey a squeeze.
Emma looked at them apologetically before taking off after her brother.
"Typical Emmie." Chris began unloading her extensive white luggage set. "Just like you to pack your entire life for a short- ow!" His hand went to the spot on his head she smacked so soundly.
"We are not," she jabbed a finger in his face, "teenagers anymore and you will not mistreat my boyfriend. And you better treat that child like he's God's gift to humanity. I am serious, Christian."
"Alright," he held his hands up defensively, "I get the picture. I'm sorry. Do you plan to pummel Dad as well? You already know what's going to happen once he gets an eyeful of them."
Emma's own eyes gave off a twinkle. "Let me worry about Daddy."
IIIIIII
Spreading the twin doors to the study apart, the head of copper red entered.
"The car just pulled in father," she announced.
Adjustments to blue necktie complete, he turned from the wall mirror. "Good." He took possession of the pointed edged cane. "Let's be ready."
When they arrived on the massive property, Emma and her brother got out and Charles and Joey did the same from the back. They beheld a three-story light gray mansion with numerous windows, surrounded by a lush trimmed lawn.
"This is positively stunning," Charles commented.
"I'm sure the Xavier Mansion could top it with ease," Chris said.
Emma looked to him with mild approval.
Seeing a young girl in a yellow short-sleeve top with navy pants speeding their way, Charles wondered, "Who do we have here?"
"Cordy!" Emma recognized delightedly.
"Em!" The dark haired teenager barreled into the blonde's waiting arms. "Oh gosh! You're absolutely sizzling."
"Me? Just look at you." Emma pulled back to do exactly that, holding onto her hands still. "You've grown up overnight."
"It's been slow, believe me." She acknowledged the other two with, "Charles, right?"
"Yes. How are you, dear? Your sister speaks well of you."
"And of you." Cordelia gave him a sideways hug and took in the little boy. "And you're Joey?" He nodded bashfully. "It just isn't fair. Emma gets all the gorgeous men."
Charles chuckled, patting the girl's back once. "We're both happy to meet you. Aren't we, Joey?"
"Mmhmm," came the shy response.
"We should go in," Chris directed.
"If we must," Emma sighed.
Cordelia linked arms with her sister and chattered while the males followed them from behind.
Once they handed off their luggage to the service staff members, Emma began to lead the way through the enormous house; its very core burned into her memory. Joey clutched Charles' hand, his father taking in the early Parisian décor. A none too eager Chris brought up the rear of the group.
Emma and Cordelia walked into the carpeted living room first. When Charles and Joey came in next, they found a redheaded woman in a black dress with heels to match seated with her legs crossed on the couch, her lips straight and face smoothed. In front of the fireplace stood a tall man, between Erik and Hank's heights, with dark brown hair, graying slightly at the temples. He wore blue slacks, a white collared shirt, and a dinner jacket of the same coloring as his tie and pants. He carried a crimson and gold cane made more like a scepter with ruby handle in one hand.
"There she is," he acknowledged grandly, taking steps forward. "My Emma."
"Father," she returned plainly.
He took her hands and pecked the back of both. "Home at last. And who do we have here?"
"Ahem." Emma held a hand out towards her company. "I'd like you to meet—"
The man's hand shot out. "Charles Xavier. Winston Frost. Winston, please."
"Hello," Charles greeted with equal pleasure, exchanging the handshake. "I can't tell you how nice it is to meet you."
"The feeling is more than mutual." Winston glanced down. "Why, is this your son?"
"Our son." Charles put an arm around Emma.
"Charles Joseph Xavier," Emma introduced proudly.
"He's the spitting image of the two of you." All eyes turned to the redhead on the couch.
"Adrienne." Emma smiled tightly. "I almost forgot you were there."
Standing, the older woman came over. "Oh, and here I thought you forgot I existed entirely."
"Impossible." I've tried. "Charles, Joey, please say hello to my oldest sister, Adrienne."
"Not too much older." Adrienne extended a hand.
Charles chuckled lightly and took the appendage. "How do you do?"
"Not as well as you I'm sure," she returned.
"I realize we're all eager to be together here under one roof again, but I believe Emma, Charles, and," Winston looked to the child again, "Little Charles, should see their rooms." He gestured outward grandly. "If you'll follow me."
"Daddy, we need to go over the rest of the details for the service," Adrienne brought up.
Chris and Cordelia looked away and Emma kept her focus on Joey.
"In due time, Adrienne. Now," he turned a smile on Charles and Emma, "shall we?"
On the tour of the second floor, Charles commented, "This reminds me very much of my time in France."
Winston glanced back at him. "You've visited?"
"Yes, my sister and I spent four weeks there before moving on to Rome for the rest of the summer."
"I cannot get enough of Europe in the summer. My wife and I used to- your family is from London originally, yes?"
Not missing his sudden change of direction, Charles replied, "Our home in Westchester once belonged to my great uncle until my father inherited it. We spent a large amount of time crossing the pond back and forth after I was born, so I get the privilege of a dual citizenship."
Winston nodded in intrigue. "Ah, here we are." He opened a door in the east wing. "I hope this suits you."
Joey peeked inside. The big broom carried a king sized oak bed, two dressers, and a seating area lighted by the sun radiating in from the patio doors.
"Dickon!" Joey hurried to his bear, already situated on the bed, as if waiting for him.
"Mr. Frost, this is most generous of you," Charles said gratefully.
"Winston," the older male corrected. "And it's the least I could do after you made the trip out with my daughter."
Seemingly mystically summoned, Emma walked up to them. "Is everything alright?" she asked Charles.
"Splendid," he answered.
"Find your room in good order, dear?"
Emma turned to her father. "Exactly as I left it."
"Of course." Winston took steps over to the little boy with the teddy bear. "Have you ever been to Boston, little Charles?"
Joey slowly looked up at him. "Um, no sir."
"Neither have I actually," Charles mentioned.
"Then we must conduct a proper tour at once," Winston put forth.
Emma gaped at him. "Right now?"
"The present is now, Emma. The future is not promised," Winston stated. "Unless you're all too worn from the flight that is."
"Oh no," Charles reassured. "I'm up for a romp around town. Would you like that, Joey?"
The boy nodded eagerly.
Emma smiled for Joey. "Then I think it's a great idea."
"Excellent. I'll have Timothy bring the car around." Winston headed out to beckon the chauffer.
Emma turned to Charles with sharp eyes. "How was he?"
"Well, let's see." Charles went into recollection. "Cordial, courteous, polite…"
"Full of it," Emma put in. Don't let him put blinders on you, Charles.
I wouldn't dream of it.
IIIIIII
For the limo ride, Cordelia sat on the same side as Emma with Joey nestled between them. Winston and Charles took the side seats.
"Oh, look, Joey." Cordelia pointed out of their window.
Joey peered out at an enormous stadium. "Wow."
"That's Fenway Park," Winston piped up. "Home of the Red Sox."
Cordelia glanced down at Joey. "Daddy's favorite team."
"Of course, Cordy could care less about baseball. She's an aspiring gymnast," Winston mentioned. "Do you play any sports, little Charles?"
"No, sir," the boy replied unsurely.
"Joey is much more devoted to his art lessons," stated Charles.
"Art, really?" Winston nodded positively. "As fine a hobby as any."
"We should take them by the Public Garden," Cordelia raised. She patted Emma's arm. "We haven't been there in ages."
"Good idea," Winston concurred then gave instruction to the chauffer.
How are you? Charles sent to Emma.
I've been worse, she returned.
When the limo came to its next stop, Cordelia hopped out first.
"Daddy, look." Joey climbed after her, pointing to the street sign. "It's our name."
Charles chuckled and Winston said, "They anticipated your arrival."
"Photo booth!" Cordelia pointed out giddily. "Race you, Joey."
The spirited pair sped off with that.
Charles smiled after them. "To be so young and fancy free."
Winston walked with his cane alongside the couple. "Charles, stop the malarkey. Everything you've seen and done is only a tenth of the things you have yet to experience." He faced them. "Be grateful you have the right woman in your life."
Emma stroked Charles' chest. "I'm the grateful one."
Cordelia and Joey jumped out of the booth as their four prints rolled down the slot.
"Which ones do you want?" Cordelia asked, looking them over. "Fishy faces, thumbs up, make peace, or cheesy grins."
"Thumbs up and fishy," Joey picked. "All the kids at home'll really laugh at those."
"You got it." Cordelia ripped off his chosen and kept the remaining two. She then spotted the other three approaching. "Oh, Charles, Emma, your turn."
"Cordy," Emma started to turn down.
"Sounds like fun." Charles eagerly pulled the blonde into the booth with him.
"Be romantic!" Cordelia instructed as the black curtain closed.
This is exceptionally corny, Emma inwardly bemoaned.
For a most exceptional couple. Now, smile. Charles placed his arm around her for the first flash.
On the second one, Emma smooched Charles' cheek. For the third, they shared a mutual lip lock. Last of all, they touched the other's temple in a telepathic pose.
Emma confessed, I've never done this before.
Really? Of course, I've only been in here with Raven sitting in my lap and trying to balance an ice cream cone. Did not turn out very well.
Laughing internally, Emma cupped the side of his face. You're here with me now.
Charles arched his head towards her lips again.
"Are you two alright in there?"
Damn that man came from Emma.
"We're fine, Winston," Charles replied, trying not to laugh. They got out of the booth and he quickly noticed something. "Where are the children?"
"They went right over there to—" Winston turned around, finding himself minus one teen and tot.
Several yards away, Cordelia sat on top of the tire swing they had discovered while Joey dangled through the opening.
"I'm so relieved you're here, Joey. My family tends to either be bitter or boring. They don't know how to have fun."
"But we're having fun," Joey responded optimistically. "This is great. At home, nobody's this much fun except Becky. Scott and Frank always have to pick the games and Seanie doesn't play with me as much as Alex, but he's always busy getting ready for his college stuff now… and spending time with Scott."
"Well, right here and now, it's just you and me." Cordelia pulled herself up by the rope and stood straight up on the tire. "Want to see a trick?"
"Okay!" Joey slid out of the tire to get a better view.
Cordelia climbed up a few branches on the tree. She ran forward and performed a triple cartwheel before diving right off the tip of the branch.
"Oh!" She looked up to see who'd caught her and smiled widely. "Hi, Charles."
"Cordelia," Charles put her down with a hard slap to her bottom, making her jump, "you could have broken your neck."
"From that distance?" Cordelia gazed upward. "No, just an ankle."
The Professor gave her a sharp look. "I have a good mind to put you across my knee and spank you for that little stunt."
The words left her stunned until her sister's voice alerted her again.
"Charles." Emma ran up with Winston. "Are they alright?"
Charles sighed and answered, "Just fine."
Joey went over to hug Emma.
"Now that we're here," Winston spoke. "Who's for a boat ride?"
"Ooh, ooh!" Joey reacted, looking up. "May we, Mummy? Please?"
Emma put a hand to his hair. "If your father is up for it."
Charles glanced at Cordelia again then to Winston. "Sounds lovely."
Winston paid for their group to have a private swan boat of just them and the operator. Emma, Charles, Joey, and Cordelia lined up along one bench with Winston in a seat directly facing them, his cane propped up next to him.
Cordelia gazed out over the edge of the boat. "Now we just need cartons of tea to chuck out."
Winston laughed at that. "Have you studied the Boston Tea Party in school, Little Charles?"
"Yes, sir," Joey answered. "But I don't see what the big deal is about a bunch of tea."
"Dear boy, you try making the argument with someone who drinks tea the way he breathes the air," Winston urged.
"He's right about that, Joey," Charles seconded.
"Imagine it a moment," Winston began to paint the picture, "all the chocolate in all of New York State dumped frivolously into the Hudson. Wouldn't that be awful?"
"That'd be terrible!" Joey said in horror.
"Then you can imagine how the citizens of olden day Boston reacted to their lost tea. But it mattered not to the Sons of Liberty that night. For they believed," Winston waved his cane dramatically, "no taxation without representation!"
Cordelia and Joey laughed and applauded at the theatrics.
Somewhere else in New York State, Frank's ears are burning.
Yes, Charles mentally chuckled them turned somber. But something is wrong here.
Figured that out in less than a day? You're quick.
No, I mean how strange all of this is. Your mother only just died, but just take a look at Cordelia and your father. It's as if nothing has taken place.
Believe it or not, sugar. This is a step up. Not all death is a time for mourning.
Charles knew that well and found the fact sad in and of itself.
IIIIIII
At seven thirty that evening, the house gathered for dinner around the long cherry wood table. With Winston at the head, Emma, Charles, and Joey sat to his right. Chris and Cordelia filled the left.
A hand came down on Charles' wrist, making him look up.
"An heirloom most cherished." Adrienne pulled her hand away from his wristwatch. "Made even more so by the fact that it belonged to your father originally."
Charles touched the face of the timepiece. "How did you know that?"
"Simple psychometry," the redhead replied plainly. "You didn't think Emma the only one 'gifted' in the family, did you?" She took her seat on Chris and Cordelia's side. "Pardon my tardiness."
"Emma may have mentioned something," Charles said.
"In passing," his girlfriend tacked on glibly.
"Yes, Adrienne's talents have prevented me from being swindled by many an art and antique dealer," Winston praised, patting the hand of his oldest. "But Charles, you should be our resident expert on all things mutation."
Charles looked to him with sharp eyes. "What do you mean?"
"Professor Xavier," Winston brought up. "Of genetics. I figured it's what drew you and Emma together."
"Ah." At ease now, Charles smiled. "Yes, of course."
"Speaking of, I must extend my highest congratulations to you on graduating Oxford. Many are unable to go beyond two years of college, let alone snag a doctorate." Winston raised his glass. "A toast. To Professor Charles Xavier."
Chris glowered, grudgingly raising his glass with the others.
"That really is unnecessary," Charles said, reddening at the neck slightly. "And please. No need to call me professor."
"Humble as well," Winston noted. "Best keep an eye on this one, Emmie. Now, I have an announcement to make." He stood, all eyes following his movements. "With your mother's passing so suddenly, I realize the time has come for me to make my future beneficiary and head of estate known."
Cordelia went over her nails with a file, Chris sat up straighter, Emma sipped at her wine indifferently, and a smug smirk came to Adrienne's face.
Winston went on, "As documented by my last will and testament, upon my death I turn over Frost Enterprises , this house, stocks, bonds, and all family affairs to my third born, Emma."
The named one nearly choked on her drink. "What?"
"What?" Adrienne echoed furiously.
"Oh dear," Charles uttered, the plethora of mixed emotions hitting him all at once.
"Congratulations, my girl." Winston kissed the astonished Emma on the cheek.
Before she could respond, Adrienne rocketed up from her chair. "Father, you cannot be serious. You're surrendering all that we have to the care of this little twit?"
Emma got up, hands going to her hips. "Excuse me? She who has made a career out of marketing her breasts has nerve enough to spit upon my intelligence?"
Charles touched her wrist. "Love…"
"Far better than the one who markets her entire body to he with the fattest check book," Adrienne shot back. "You overrated call girl."
"Enough of this." Winston stood again. "Need I remind the two of you that we have a child amongst us? No need for you both to behave as such." He turned to his oldest daughter. "Adrienne, my decision has been made. There is no room for negotiation."
"Daddy," she beseeched.
"I said enough," he reiterated strongly. "Sit back down at once. Both of you."
With twin glares, the sisters returned to their chairs.
IIIIIII
Son safely in the tub, Charles left him to wash and stepped back out into their room. He went to sit on the bed and immediately felt something poking at him. Raising a pillow, he discovered a photo album and started going through it. Through the clear plastic protection, he saw repetitive photos of the same sour faced, bone thin, stringy yellow haired girl.
"Charles, I," Emma stopped in place when she walked in on him with it, "what is that?" She went over and snatched it away before he could say a word and began scanning through the photographs. "Where did you get this?"
"It was left out here on the bed," Charles explained. "Emma—"
"She did this." Emma shut the album and flung it hard against a back corner of the room. "That little wench."
"Emma, please." Charles stood. "Calm down."
She stepped back from his grasp. "So now you know, okay? Gallons of makeup, padded bras, that's what it took every single morning to rid myself of that disgusting living skeleton. I tried to eat myself into sickness and I remained frail. Mirrors- I hated them. Adrienne was always the pretty one and she made it known every chance she got." She turned from him, hand going down her blonde locks in frustration.
"Erik points out my pudginess at every opportunity." Emma glanced back at Charles' speaking. "I'm also short with ghostly skin incapable of embracing the sun." A half smile came to her face. "Emma, do you believe you're the only one to ever recoil before a mirror? There are countless photographs I can show you from my all too awkward years." He pulled her to him until they were chest to chest. "What we have goes well beyond the physical. When I say I love you for your mind, that's not just a weak expression."
Charles gave her a kiss and a now beaming Emma hugged him tightly.
Joey came out dressed in his pajamas and smiled up at them. "Mum?" Both looked over at him. "Why is your big sister so mean?"
"Now Joey, that's not a very nice thing to say," Charles chided.
"Only because it's too much of an understatement." Emma lay out on the bed and they joined her. She rolled to her side to better face Joey. "Sometimes siblings can be jealous, bitter, spiteful, and those are the good qualities."
Charles added, "And other times they are kind, supportive, and very fun to be around."
"Like Alex?" Joey smiled.
"Exactly." Charles picked up the brush to start straightening out his son's damp hair." "And like Aunt Raven and Uncle Erik for me."
Emma sighed. "Where can I sign up to be adopted?"
IIIIIII
Lounged contentedly in the hot tub, Cordelia looked up when Charles walked out to the patio.
"Cordy," he acknowledged happily. "A little late for you, isn't it?"
"I think I like it better out here."
"Things did become a bit tense this evening." Charles slipped out of his outdoor shoes and got down low to dip his feet in the below ground tub.
"Charles, about today," Cordelia brought up, "I was just showing a move to Joey. I'd never let him try anything like that."
"My concerns went out to you as well," Charles informed, clearly catching her attention. "Emma told me you had a few problems not long ago."
The teenager turned thoughtful. "After Emma lost those kids, she became so… hateful. Like she wanted nothing to do with anyone, especially us. Because all humans are bad and Adrienne is just… Adrienne. I didn't handle that so well. But after Christmas last year, she got back in touch with me and Chris. I started doing better, going to school, got back into gymnastics."
"That's certainly good to hear," Charles said. "How are you coping with your mother not being here?"
Cordelia shrugged a shoulder. "Nothing I'm not used to." She looked at him closely. "I'm glad you're here, Charles. Emma needs someone like you."
"I am here for you as well, Cordy," Charles promised. "If you ever want to talk."
"Thanks," she replied quietly.
"Well," they both glanced over as Winston stepped out in a pair of trunks, "seems we all had the same idea."
"I'm going to make a run for the powder room." Cordelia climbed out of the water and covered herself with her bumblebee striped robe.
Winston accepted a peck on the cheek from as she went by him then turned to Charles. "I must apologize for that display at dinner."
Charles waved a hand. "I have three teenage boys and another three smaller children running about my home. Not to mention my own sister and her husband. A lack of decorum is nothing new for me."
The older man chuckled, getting down into the bubbling water. "Have you and Emma made any plans for tomorrow?"
"No, actually. Did you have something in mind?"
"Yes, I'd like you to join me for a game of tennis on the court," Winston raised. "About noon?"
"I haven't played tennis in ages. You, sir, are on," Charles agreed.
"Good. We'll have lots to discuss." Winston folded his arms behind his head comfortably.
IIIIIII
After checking on Joey again, Emma made tracks for her quarters. Sensing something, she glowered and shoved the door open.
"Pure gold, given to you on Mother's Day," Adrienne fingered the circular pendant from where she sat in an ivory armchair, "and you didn't even have to perform a job on him to earn it."
"You." Emma charged in, pointer finger out accusatory. "You left that album in Charles' room."
Adrienne's expression did not change. "Why of course. After Chris so diligently took down every last photo of your younger days, I just had to do something to help Charles see the real you. And unlike you, I can't perform mind tricks." She dropped the necklace on the desk and stood. "That's how you got Daddy to make you his heiress, isn't it?"
Experiencing vivid déjà vu, Emma ordered, "Get out of my room, Adrienne."
"You've always thought yourself so special," the black adorned woman got up and walked towards Emma, "but your weak little telepathy never had a full effect on any of us. My powers actually proved useful."
"Is your ability to hear still functional?" Emma asked sardonically. "Because I just told you to leave."
Adrienne only went on. "I was not a model for six years before I had my own agency. I built it myself stone by stone. Then you have nerve enough to show up here with that readymade family as if you're some kind of success story."
"That's what's really gnawing at you, isn't it?" Emma crossed her arms. "That despite all of your accomplishments, no man wants an infertile excuse for a woman like you."
The redhead yanked hard on a section of Emma's golden locks. "Better to be barren than to produce a hideous deformity like you."
Emma pulled back from her, eyes icy. "Insults I'll take, always have." She slapped Adrienne clear across the face. "But that was my hair."
Rushing at her, Adrienne forced Emma out into the hall. A grappling match ignited between them on the floor.
Chris and Charles ran up from opposite ends of the hall and pried them apart.
"Stop it, both of you." Chris struggled with Adrienne. "Have you gone completely crackers?"
Adrienne spat, "If our mother was here—"
"She was never here!" Emma hissed. "Never! She wanted so desperately to escape this reality. Well, wish granted."
Adrienne's face lost all traces of a hardened edge as she sped off for her bedroom, slamming the door.
Chris' eyes darted down and he walked off toward the stairs.
"Emma," Charles breathed.
She stared into his welcoming blue eyes, her own heavy with grief. "Do you now see why I had no reservation with annihilating humanity?"
Charles said nothing; only bringing her into his arms in a strong lock.
IIIIIII
With a whistle on his lips, Winston came outside dressed in khakis and a blue and white sweater-vest, twin rackets in one hand and scepter in another. Charles, seated at an outdoor table with Joey, wore white pants and a gray short-sleeved shirt. Joey had on a day outfit of an orange t-shirt and soft brown pants.
"Afternoon, gentlemen," Winston greeted pleasantly. "Ready for a game?"
"Absolutely," Charles replied, "and good afternoon."
"Good afternoon, sir," Joey spoke up.
"Little Charles, I'm glad you're here. I have a couple friends who have been dying to meet you since yesterday." He whistled again, sharply this time.
From across the grass, a pair of dogs came into view.
Joey gasped delightedly and hopped up.
"Oh heavens," Charles smile. "He loves dogs."
"So do I." Winston patted the black and white border collie's head. "This is Courage and the lady," he indicated the yapping beagle, "is Beauty."
"Hi, Courage." Joey rubbed his thick fur. "Hi, Beauty." He picked her up to hug. "My name's Charles Joey Xavier."
"Would you keep an eye on them while your father and I get a little exercise in?" Winston requested.
"Sure!" Joey agreed readily
"Be sure not to wander now," Charles cautioned, getting up.
"Oh he'll be fine," Winston said undoubtedly.
The men walked the twelve yards to the tennis court and began their match straightaway. Charles started off rusty, but soon rekindled himself with his swing and took the lead.
"It seems I selected an all too worthy opponent," Winston noted.
Charles whacked the yellow ball back yet again. "I'm sure you were quite the champion bloke decades past."
Striking the ball, Winston waved the racket Charles' direction. "Watch yourself, daughter's boyfriend."
Laughing, Charles suggested, "Let's take five, shall we?"
They moved over to the spectators' bench, wiping their faces with the white towels available there.
Winston put his towel down and peered at Charles solemnly. "You're the spitting image of Brian."
A taken aback Charles almost dropped his towel. "You knew my father?"
"We were associates for different organizations, mainly charities," Winston explained. "Exceptional man. Wise, witty, and yet I used to find him a bit naïve."
"Pardon me?" Charles' tone carried an underlying offense.
"Don't mistake me," Winston reassured. "What I mean is I couldn't understand him at points. He carried so much honor and integrity in all that he did. To get where I am, I've coerced, manipulated, blackmailed, just about any underhanded tactic you can imagine. I make neither excuses nor apologies."
Charles regarded him closely. "What did you really want to discuss with me, Winston?"
"As if you cannot answer that for yourself." At the younger man's twinkle of surprise, Winston said, "You touch your head frequently and lingeringly, just as my daughter used to. You ask very few questions. And considering her previous tastes, I don't think Emma could ever fall in love with any ordinary man."
Charles stared ahead. "I had to protect Emma's welfare. I know what just the mere thought of coming here has done to her. I've kept my boundaries for the most part."
"Of course you have," Winston stated knowingly. "You have the very spirit of your father within you." Charles looked at him again. "That is why I believe you and Emma could carry on the Frost and Xavier names together. I've had hopes for Emma ever since she was a little girl. She was always so intelligent, but far too lazy or ruled by anger. Now with you in her life, I believe she can meet and exceed those expectations. Won't you speak with her, Charles?"
Feeling the earnestness radiating, Charles stood. "I'll consider it during our rematch."
"You're on, boy," Winston smirked, getting up.
Seizing the ball from the ground, Charles tossed it his way for Winston to deliver the next serve.
IIIIIII
Joey walked in the middle of the short line with Beauty leading the way into the house and Courage protectively covering them from behind.
"Where are we going, Beauty?" Joey looked up when they reached one hall closet and he heard sniffling.
Beauty pawed at the door and Joey opened it. The trio discovered Cordelia curled up among the linens.
"Cordy?"
She brought her tear streaked face up. "Joey."
"What's the matter?" Joey asked in great concern.
Cordelia shifted so that her legs stuck out of the doorway.
Holding up a photograph of a light haired woman, she said, "I don't understand why this all happened; why she didn't try harder. Why she left."
Sitting up against the wall, Joey said in turn, "I don't know why mine went away, either."
"Did she die?"
"No." Joey ran a hand through Courage's fur when the big dog lay beside him. "She just left; drove away without me."
"What?" Cordelia developed wide disbelieving eyes. "Why— how could she do that?" Joey only shrugged. "Do you ever want her to come back?"
Joey hummed thoughtfully before shaking his head hard. "No, 'cause I don't want any other mama in the world but your sister."
"Emma, right? Because I'm sure Adrienne's kids would shed their skin a lot." They shared a laugh. Cordelia raised Beauty, holding the dog near her neck. "Are you one of them? Emma's 'special' kids?"
"Umm…" Joey bit his lip.
"Joey, it's okay," the girl assured. "I won't tell anyone. Besides, Emma and Adrienne are. We all know."
"Yeah," Joey finally answered.
"What can you do? Will you show me?"
"I can't," he said quickly. "My dad might get mad if I show it without asking."
"Tell you what," Cordelia bargained. "I won't tell the grownups if you won't tell them a secret about me."
Joey eyed her in intrigue and nodded.
Cordelia bent forward to get in close to his ear.
IIIIIII
When the kitchen door opened and closed, Chris did not bother turning around from where he arched forward over the island. He recognized the deeply heavy breathing.
"I must say," Winston panted, going for the refrigerator. "That Xavier boy is quite the tennis player, among other grand feats. I never thought I'd live long enough to see Emma strike gold in the romance department."
"Yes, he's most fitting." Chris turned another page in the newspaper. "The son you've so desperately craved all these years."
Winston removed two bottled waters from the ice box and shut the door. "Chris, do save the self-pity and petty jealousy for that book you're secretly writing. It may be your one real achievement."
Chris slammed a hand down on the marble surface. "And here we go again. Your only son, your greatest shame."
"I carry no shame for you, Christian." Winston went around the island to peer into his face. "I performed my role in your life. You're the one who didn't hold up your end."
"You have never been of real support to me," Chris retorted. "Anything I've ever done has never been good enough. Of that you remind me every chance you get."
Winston's tone shot up several decibels. "That's because every time I turn around, you make another mess for me to clean. The DUI's, expulsion from prep school, three and a half years at Harvard before you decided to drop out at the last moment to marry and divorce within ten months' time."
"Cheryl and I were twenty-one. It was a foolish error and we knew it."
"Yes, you received a clean break from her, but then there was gold digger Darcy. Now she has the house and your car while you reside here to "find yourself"." Winston looked at him flatly. "Tell me, what is it like to live rent free?"
Chris pressed his fingers against the countertop angrily. "I didn't exactly have the ideal example of a happy marriage."
"I grew up in the slums among uneducated immigrants." Winston proved completely unmoved. "You don't thrive in life because of the circumstances, but despite them. Adrienne has her own business. Emma played hooky throughout most of her academic career and now she's a teacher with her own ideals and principles."
"You were never as hard on them," Chris insisted.
"Of course I wasn't," Winston wholeheartedly agreed. "They're females. All the world expects of them are looks. You had the bigger challenges to combat, had every advantage, and you gave in every time."
"So I failed you and Mom," Winston concluded.
"You failed yourself." Gathering both waters to carry in one arm, Winston walked by his son and slapped his back hard. "I told you about that slouching. Stand like a man."
Chris instinctively stood up to his full height. As soon as the kitchen door shut, he bent right back over and continued reading.
IIIIIII
The horse devoured the carrot then decided to lick Joey's fingers as well. The little boy giggled. Emma smiled fondly, patting the white stallion along his silky mane.
Winston walked over to the stable in full riding gear. "I haven't seen you wear your hair that way in over a decade."
Emma touched one of the braided pigtails. "The wind is unforgiving when I leave it down."
"What do you think of Valiant, little Charles?" Winston asked.
"He reminds me of Xander." Joey rubbed the stallion's pink nose. "He's the horse Mummy got me for my birthday."
"Emma, you could have told me you wanted to get the lad a horse," Winston put forth. "I would have given him a thoroughbred colt."
Emma put a certain eye on her father. "It wasn't exactly planned."
Returning to Joey, Winston said, "Valiant has several trophies under his mane. How would you like to test him out yourself?"
"Oh boy!" Joey grinned.
Emma's jaw nearly hit the ground.
"But safety first. I'll be right back."
When Winston headed into the stable, Emma followed behind him. "Father, Valiant is your favorite horse; your champion."
"Naturally. I wouldn't give the boy an old nag to drag around." He uncovered the small child sized riding helmet off the top of a shelf. "Cordelia certainly can't fit this anymore." Winston retrieved another from a lower shelf. "This shouldn't be too snug on you. You always had an odd shaped head, even as a baby." Emma gave him a glare, only making him laugh. "Here, put it on."
"We still need to talk," Emma reminded him.
"The helmet, daughter." He held it out to her again.
Emma sighed and slipped it on.
They returned to Joey and Winston helped him onto Valiant. "Your mother and I will be right with you, but don't let us slow you down." He put the smaller helmet on for him.
"This isn't what the cowboys wear," Joey commented.
"No, it's what my grandchildren wear," Winston said matter-of-factly, clipping it on. "And presently, you're the only one I have."
Joey smiled widely and lifted Valiant's reigns.
After Emma climbed onto the silver mare and Winston the black stallion, the three of them started off in a trot. Joey got ahead swiftly.
"We need to teach him to play polo," Winston suggested. "What a natural he is with animals."
Emma looked over at him. "What the hell do you want?"
"Emma Frost," he chided.
"Tell me," she ordered. "Or I can probe us both into unconsciousness. Either way, I want to know what's behind this sudden sainthood."
Winston's head went back in laughter. "Sainthood, daughter? I don't have an ounce in my entire system. You haven't been gone so long that you've forgotten that."
"I most certainly have not. I don't suppose your infinite hospitality towards Charles and Joey has anything to do with the fact that Joey could easily pass for a perfect product of Frost DNA?"
"That's certainly a bonus," he admitted. "Let's just say your mother's death caused me to reevaluate some parts of my life. I could ask the same question of you. How did you go from a nazi to a true saint?"
Emma's eyes lost their accusatory edge. "I was angry and vengeful. Stupid. Then I touched minds with Charles. I had to change… not only so that he could love me, but for the chance that I could stop hating myself."
Winston listened intently. "He's what you needed. He and his son— they've breathed life into this place so quickly after a death."
Emma asked knowingly, "It wasn't a stroke, was it?"
"No," he answered distantly. They rode quietly before Winston spoke again. "So Adrienne tells me you two got into a scuffle last night due to your childish antics and inability to listen to reason."
"Kiss-up," Emma spat. "Since day one."
"You two," Winston sighed.
"She touched my hair," Emma smiled impishly. "But anyway, feel free to make her your heiress. I hold no desire for it."
"Never," Winston turned down. "Your sister may be a brilliant woman of business, but she's cold and callous. At least I know why you joined that… creature you knew before Charles. You wanted justice for your mutants. Your species is real advancement, Emma. I may not have it in me personally, but I like to believe I beget greatness."
Emma gazed at him then stared ahead in ponder.
"Look, Mummy," Joey called. When she glanced at him, he signaled Valiant to leap several feet across a large boulder.
The woman smiled proudly.
"And it would seem you've acquired greatness, my dear," remarked Winston.
Emma gave him a fast glance before galloping to catch up with her son.
IIIIIII
Strolling around the corridor, Charles continued to his room. Cordelia stepped out just as he started in.
"Hi, Charles," the teenager greeted first. "Have you seen Emma?"
"She and your father were going to show Joey the horses."
"Ah, right." She stepped by him. "I'll catch her later then." Cordelia turned to go.
"Have you seen my wallet?" Charles asked meaningfully.
She glanced back with a confused smile. "What?"
"You can drop the act." He walked upon her.
A contrite expression came to the young face and she removed the brown leather money holder from her pants pocket. "I'm sorry, Charles."
Charles accepted the wallet, stuffing it into his back pocket. "It's very bad judgment to continue antidepressants against doctor wishes." Astonishment filled her blue eyes. "That is what you needed cash for, isn't it? If your father saw your credit charges, he'd know and have you revisiting that therapist you found less than enjoyable." At her continued stunned silence he said, "Yes, love, I am exactly like Emma except my powers work on you fully and completely. I know it wasn't truly money you were looking for, but you needn't worry." He hoisted her straight up, "I'm going to give you what you were really after," and carried her back inside his suite, kicking the door shut.
Lowering into the nearest chair, he brought the girl across his legs. Cordelia proved too shocked by the act and revelation of his abilities to perform any standard bodily movements. Winding his arm around her waist, Charles began to swat with mild firmness. This was a young lady he had to deal with after all.
"Ow, ouch!" Cordelia cried out once the sting developed. "Ow— Char-les! Not so hard!"
Charles let go of an, "Ow!" of his own when her ballet flat covered foot connected with his shin. "You will be still, young lady."
At the command, she went limp with a whimper.
That surprised Charles, considering how Raven usually clawed at him a little before giving in, but he continued.
Before he got to the planned sixteenth strike, he heard the distinct sounds of crying. Pausing his hand, Charles used his power to find out her sincerity. Upon discovering genuine sorrow from the young miss, Charles brought her up into his arms. The bunched up weeping teenaged seemed years younger and sizes smaller.
"I know how hurt and confused you are," Charles whispered. "But you mustn't do anything to damage yourself." He smiled when her head went to his shoulder. "I'll be speaking with your sister later and I may approach your father as well," that he had not completely decided on, "but for the duration of my time here, you're going to answer to me. Are you comfortable with that?"
"Yes," came the whisper and she tugged babyishly at his shirt.
Charles got up with her and carried her out of his room and to the girl's own. He placed her on her side on the canopy bed and removed her shoes for her.
"Charles," Cordelia petitioned as he covered her, getting him to look at her. "Don't go. Not yet. Please."
At the request, Charles pulled over her rolling desk chair and sat facing her. I'll be right here.
The voice in her mind initially shocking, Cordelia felt an ease pass over her from it. She closed her eyes and rolled over to cuddle with one of her stuffed animals.
IIIIIII
When Winston came into the living room, he observed Joey laying across his old armchair with a notebook and pencil in his possession.
Joey glanced over and straightened into an upright position. "I'm sorry, sir."
"Don't be silly," Winston dismissed, approaching him. "That chair is twice your age. It can survive being touched by a pair of bitty feet." He bent and tickled Joey under his left foot, receiving a giggle; a sound so foreign to the room. "What's this you're working on?"
"It's for Cordy." Joey turned the pad around for the man to see.
Winston had to absorb the depiction. "Hazel…"
Nodding, Joey said, "Cordy showed me her picture."
"I don't think she's ever looked more beautiful." His gaze went to Joey again. "Will you come with me a moment?"
"Sure." Joey got up, leaving his supplies on the seat.
Ruby scepter behind his back, Winston led the way out and into his study. He sat in the leather chair behind his desk and removed a taped key from right under his desk.
He handed it to Joey. "Open my bottom drawer."
Following instruction, Joey lowered and unlatched the drawer before sliding it open. Inside he found a portfolio and lifted it out. Looking to Winston, the man gave him a nod of permission. Joey unzipped it and unearthed a thick pile of various colorful sketches. They mostly consisted of four children in various poses; three girls and a boy. Joey's attention went to one of a frail teenager seated on the edge of a fountain.
"I got inspired for that when I saw your mother out in the front garden one day, lost in the world inside her head." Winston's voice made Joey look to him again. "I was very poor when I was your age. Drawing helped me escape to somewhere better. A place where people did not mock me or insist I would never amount to anything."
Joey stood up again. "That's where I like to go, too." His eyes went to the cane. "Why do you have that?"
"For my son." Winston patted the ruby end against the palm of his hand menacingly before smirking. "Actually, it's due to a riding accident from years back. I broke my right leg in such a way that even to this day, it will give out unexpectedly if I'm not careful."
"Oh," Joey understood.
"I was wondering when you were going to ask. I've seen you looking at it here and there," Winston told him then leaned forward. "Do you know why I chose the design of a scepter?" Joey shook his head. "A man my age walking with any ordinary cane would be seen as weak and feeble. But the scepter," he held the instrument up to the sunlight radiating in from the stain glass window behind them, "is a sign of authority and power, able to strike fear into the hearts of all who dare cross me. However," the man's voice softened significantly, "I never want you to feel that way towards me."
Joey watched as Winston threw the specialty cane across the room. "Sir?" Joey turned back to him and walked until he stood right by his leg. "I'm not scared."
"Little Charles," Winston brushed a thumb down one of the child's cheeks, "there is no blood bond between us. But I feel a connection with you, one greater than a red fluid has to offer. Do you really consider Emma to be your mother?"
"Yes, sir," Joey answered without hesitation.
"Then I want you to consider me to be," Winston extended a hand, "your grandfather."
Joey touched palms with him then climbed right up into his lap. Winston now used the hand to press against Joey's back in a strong hug.
IIIIIII
At her door opening so suddenly, Emma looked back in time to see Charles with a mischievous glint in his eyes.
"How's it, baby?" The male telepath came in, closing the door after himself. "What's say you and me shimmy out the window and hop in my hotrod before the old man gets wise?"
Emma raised an eyebrow, sitting up. "You do realize not all American teenagers are knock offs from Rebel Without a Cause, right?"
"I must say this is a bit thrilling." Charles sat cross-legged on the bed facing her. "After living together in my home, here we are in yours. Alone together, in your room, just the two of us." He frowned worriedly. "Your father won't be angry over this will he?"
Emma looked back at him in amusement. "At you?" She crawled over to get into his arms and rest on his chest. "Impossible."
Charles held her near. "I had a run in with your sister earlier."
"That floosy!" Emma's head shot up. "Did she try to make a pass at you?"
"I should say not," Charles replied, "considering she's only sixteen years old."
"Cordy?" Emma glanced up. "What happened?"
"Do you remember what I told you about yesterday's tree acrobatics?" She nodded and he went on. "Today she decided to steal my wallet- to test me. So I put her over my knee and spanked her."
Emma's eyes enlarged momentarily. "You spanked my little sister? Are you capable of going anywhere without parenting?"
"Parenting is something she's been severely lacking, Emma," Charles emphasized. "She's been abusing medication."
"What?" Emma now appeared startled. "Exactly like…"
"Your mother," Charles filled in. "Apparently this need to escape is an epidemic."
"I have to do something." Emma sat up from him. "I should've been doing something. Father has never raised a hand to any one of us but Chris and with him living here, Cordy's probably near invisible."
Charles touched her hand. "I think the best thing you can do is accept your father's offer. I know you don't desire it, but maybe that will make you the best beneficiary of all. You can turn things around for your family, for Cordelia. And I'll be right there to help you." He kissed her hand now.
"Do you really think there's any hope to be had here?"
"Emma, had I the chance to change things for either one of my parents, I would," Charles replied sincerely. "Your mother is gone, but your father is right downstairs."
IIIIIII
Winston turned away from viewing his lit fireplace at the dainty footsteps and glanced back.
"Emma," he acknowledged, leaning forward against his scepter.
She walked in and toward him. "What if Charles and I end up like you and Mom? What if it's just a twisted cycle that never ends?"
"It will end, Emma," Winston said fiercely. "Look at the two of you here, a firm support system for each other. Money is not of significance to either of you the way it ruled my heart for so long. Whatever may happen, you are not your mother and Charles is nowhere near being me."
Emma looked at him seriously. "If I am to pick up where you leave off, things are going to be done on my terms. Done differently."
"Why do you think I selected you?" Winston pointed out. He placed a hand under her chin. "And if you listen to nothing else I tell you, heed this. Hold onto Charles with all that you have and never let him get away." He moved over to his couch, taking a seat.
Able to sense his mountain of regret, Emma viewed the men almost as a different person entirely. She sat beside him, resting on his shoulder, the fire's heat warming them both.
IIIIIII
"How many of those have you had?"
Chris looked over from where he lay back in his inflatable arch at Adrienne getting into the pool. "Don't play Mother, Dri. The role doesn't become you." He took another swig of scotch.
"And it never will," she threw out, getting no response from him at her pained tone. She gazed upward at the clear night sky. "She's been dead for days. And everything feels…"
"Exactly the same." Emma came out in her swimsuit.
Adrienne sighed. "This night just keeps getting better."
"I'm not here for round two, Adrienne," Emma informed her.
"No, you're here to gloat that you now hold the key to all of our inheritances," Adrienne stated bitterly.
"Would you stop?" Emma snapped suddenly, making Chris look over as well. "I'm done with this, all of it. We've spent years belittling, tormenting, or even isolating each other and over what? Power, glory? Such things destroyed our parents' marriage and it ultimately ended Mother. Haven't you had enough?"
"As a matter of fact, I have," Adrienne stated. "I've had just about enough of you."
"Typical Dri." All three heads went up. Cordelia stood out on a third floor balcony, gazing down at them. "Too big a know-it-all to ever listen to anyone." She climbed up to stand on the edge of the railing.
"Cordelia!" Chris threw down his drink and rushed out of the pool. "Are you mad? Get down from there."
Adrienne hurried inside the house.
"Shut up, Chris," the teenager sneered. "I don't have to listen to you. Emma's boyfriend, from a totally different country and who I've known for like twenty-four hours, figured out more about me than you have in sixteen years."
Coming in behind her, Adrienne grabbed Cordelia's arm. "Get down and stop making a damned spectacle of yourself."
Cordelia turned dagger eyes on her and Adrienne gasped as the young girl's body hardened all over into solid gold, leaving only her dark hair unaffected. She then promptly yanked back her arm, sending Adrienne hurling down into the pool.
"Adrienne!" Chris jumped in to get to her.
"That's right. I'm special, too," Cordelia declared.
"Good." Emma flipped up and over onto the balcony in full diamond form. "Then I don't need to hold back." She lunged at her sister, sending them both down.
Cordelia kicked Emma up off of her and into the hall.
The teenager somersaulted out.
Emma got to her feet. "You're on something, Cor. That's all this is. You have to calm down and let me help you."
The gold plated girl scoffed. "You help me? You're only here because Mom kicked it. You don't care anything about me."
When Cordelia ran at her, Emma grabbed her by the wrists. "That is not true." She forced the younger female against a wall. "I love you, Cordy. I know I've made mistakes, but things are going to change."
"She's right, Cordelia." Charles, having felt the commotion in spades, approached them. His hand went to his temple.
"It's worthless, Charles," Emma told him. "It's just like me. Her mind is impenetrable in this gold form."
"Damn right." Cordelia head-butted Emma and immediately yelled out in pain.
"Big mistake." Emma released her hold on her. "Diamond is harder than gold."
Cordelia flashed in and out between gold and flash.
Charles took the opportunity and used his telepathy to summon her out of her gold state altogether. The girl toppled over to her knees.
"This behavior," Charles got down and clutched her before applying swats to her bottom, "is going to stop right now, Cordelia Frost."
Tears, but none from the chastisement, quickly formed and expelled from her and she fell out against Charles. The man only held her tightly and allowed her to sob.
Dissolving her diamond casing, Emma lowered down beside them and hugged her little sister from behind.
IIIIIII
"Adrienne's going to be fine," Chris reported, coming into the bedroom. "She's resting. How's Cordy?"
Their father, Emma, and Charles currently sat around at the sleeping girl's bedside.
"Better," Charles responded. "I'm going to keep her under my watch."
Winston shook his head sadly. "I never even suspected she'd developed this problem."
Emma turned to him. "You wouldn't be alone in the land of oblivious."
"Hazel's passing along with pent up emotion caused the drugs to have the most aversive effect possible," Charles said, holding Cordelia's hand. "But she will be alright with time."
"I'm going to get the doctor on the phone in the morning," Winston stated.
Charles looked back at him. "Winston, I'm going to be checking in. When Cordelia is well again, I want her to join us at our school for mutants."
"It's the best place for her," Emma agreed.
Winston nodded. "With you two there, I have no doubt."
Chris observed another moment before walking out.
IIIIIII
The funeral arrived two days later and afterwards, Winston drove Charles, Emma, and Joey back to the airbase. Cordelia had gone along with them as well while Chis had opted to take Adrienne to the airport.
"So you're a pilot also?" Winston said when they came upon the jet. "Somehow that doesn't surprise me."
Charles chuckled before turning serious. "I'll call as soon as we arrive and every day after to see about Cordelia."
Winston replied, "I look forward to it." He held out his hand. "I trust that you plan to make an honest woman out of my daughter eventually?"
"Eventually," Charles confirmed, joining with him in a shake.
"I'm really gonna miss you, Cordy," Joey said, descending the jet stairs with the ladies.
"I'm going to miss you, too," Cordelia returned sincerely. She knelt down to hug him and whispered into his ear, "We'll be together again. I promise to get better just so I can see you."
"I can't wait," he said back, his arms going around her neck tightly.
Cordelia stood, facing her sister. "I am so…"
"Don't," Emma shook her head, pulling her over into an embrace. "I'm the one who's sorry. And I meant what I said. Things are going to be different. For all of us. I love you, sweetheart."
"I love you, too, Emmie," Cordelia said back. She let go and walked over to where Charles waited. "Thank you for everything."
Charles lifted her up a bit in a hug. "Don't thank me yet. You have yet to sit through a class with me."
Cordelia smiled and kissed his cheek.
Leaving them a moment, Winston approached Emma and Joey. "I have something for you." From inside his jacket, he withdrew a thin case and handed it over to the boy.
Joey opened it, finding finely crafted paintbrushes inside. "These are fantastic!"
"For a fantastic artist," Winston said.
Grinning, Joey reached his arms out and Winston picked him up into a hug. "Thank you, Grandpa."
"Take good care of your parents." Winston carefully placed him down before joining hands with Emma. "I need you to know something before we part ways." She studied him closely. "I am so proud of you."
To her own surprise, Emma felt her eyes well up. "Take care, Daddy."
Final partings complete, the family of three entered the jet. Stepping back a safe distance, Winston and Cordelia waved the aircraft away as it took off into the sky. Removing something from her pocket, Cordelia smiled at her two pictures of herself with Joey before heading back to the car with her father.