X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall
Chapter Ninety Seven
Author's Word: It is the miracle of Easter. Trust me, my people. With life being as hectic as it was this particular weekend, I so was not looking to post this until April. Thank you all for your reviews from the last chapter and I hope everyone enjoyed the weekend and Passover. Part of the reason I was able to post this was due to motivation from reviewer Dee. Thank you so much for your care and concern and yes, I'm less stressed now. On this day in particular, I'm glad this chapter was able to rise. Please review and enjoy!
Retrieving the can of Coke from the slot, Alex glanced up as a palm connected with the front of the vending machine.
"I'm being forced into something against my will."
Standing straight, Alex guessed, "Prostitution?"
Ethan responded, "No, that would be entirely within my will, actually. I'm here on official Alpha business. The big brothers are a little insistent that you attend Saturday's mixer. And since we're classmates, they thought I'd be perfect to…"
"Play devil's advocate?" Alex supplied.
"You'll really be helping me gather brownie points?" Ethan tried next.
"I'll think about it," the blonde said without guarantee.
"Beggars can't be choosers," Ethan nodded before heading off.
Alex popped his can top then started in the other direction.
IIIIIII
"That saved a wre- wretch." Sean paused, tapping his throat. "It feels like I'm gonna retch. I can't get near these high notes, Trick."
"You already have the voice, Seanie. You need only to fine tune it." The music teacher stood from the piano bench and went to stand out in the middle of the studio. "Amazing Grace is one of those songs where you need to unleash its meaning from a whole other side of yourself. Listen to this."
Amazing grace
How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see
Both males looked to the studio's doorway to see the new exquisitely serene voice belonged to a thin bright faced creature. Her long red hair shimmered over the green blouse she wore as she moved into the room in a slow spin.
Sean waited on a reaction from Trick, who only stood completely taken aback by the unexpected female.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
Trick took her by the hands.
The hour I first believed
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love
Amazing grace, they concluded together.
The moment they finished, Trick grinned and wrapped arms around her tightly. "Holly Jolly!"
"Patty Cake!" she returned with equal enthusiasm.
Sean stood with a smirk. "Patty Cake?"
Trick looked back at him. "Don't pretend as if you don't have pet names for your little brother."
"Yeah," Sean recalled, "The Pain. This is your sister?"
"The bitty brat herself," Trick confirmed. "Sean, this is—"
"Oh my God." They all turned to see that Jasmine had just walked in, the smile she wore growing with every step. "Aunt Holly?"
"Flower?"
After less than a second of silence between the two females they lunged at each other in a mutually forceful hug that promptly sent them to the floor.
IIIIIII
In the thinned out student union, typical for a Thursday, Alex zeroed in on his main cohorts situated on one of the couches. Jam leaned upright against the backrest, scanning his notebook. Leon lay across the opposite arm, his head literally buried in a small paperback with long black hair flowing in every possible direction.
Alex sat on the coffee table directly in front of them. "Hey."
"What's up, Lex?" Jam greeted.
At the Asian boy's lack of response, Alex asked in intrigue, "Is he alive?"
"If he's not, I didn't do it," was all Jam had to say.
To get his own answer, Alex took the liberty of reaching over to soundly smack Leon's upturned behind.
A slow head turn accompanied the gesture. "College is tiring," Leon stated flatly.
Alex offered, "Want to unwind at a party on Saturday? The Alphas are still after me and I figure it won't be as bad with a little reinforcement."
"You expect me to appear at an Alpha soirée?" Jam made his lips go as circular as they could. "Oh the scandal- what time?"
"Seven at their frat house." Raven came along and bent forward slightly over the back of the couch.
Alex looked at her pointedly. "This is for recruits only."
"Not according to my new friend Ethan," Raven countered matter-of-factly. "He just insisted I come and bring Hank. Wasn't that nice of him? 'Kay, see you guys later." She sauntered off.
Alex let off a very annoyed breath.
"What's with you two all of a sudden?" Jam asked.
"I feel like she's constantly watching me."
Jam suggested, "Watch her butt back. See how she likes it."
Leon made a slight Twilight Zone sound effect with his mouth before returning to his reading.
IIIIIII
At her filled teacup, Holly said, "Thank you, Charles."
"My pleasure." The Professor rejoined Emma on the living room loveseat.
Emma asked her, "How was your flight over?"
"Very smooth," Holly replied, seated between her brother and niece on a sofa. "I didn't have any trouble at all until I reached your security. Tall fiendishly handsome chap and a little bitty hairy man that strongly reminded me of that puppy we had when I was five."
"That's Victor and his brother Logan," Jasmine explained.
"You learn to love or tolerate them," Trick added.
"Where did Trick say you were going to school?" Erik asked from his chair.
"I'm in my second year at the University of South Florida," Holly answered.
Jasmine felt the need to inform, "She's the first Hughes woman ever to go to college. Auntie's going into business for herself."
"Hopefully," Holly cupped the girl's cheek affectionately, "though it never would have been possible without the support of a great man." She tapped Trick's knee. "My Patty Cake."
"Oh stop," Trick dismissed. "A few measly dollars can't compare to your brain."
When the front door open and closed, a voice called out, "Hey, what's for dinner?" Alex entered the living room, stopping immediately at the sight of the guest there. "Hi…"
Holly gazed up at him. "Hello."
Putting his cup and saucer down, Trick stood up. "This is one of my colleagues, Alexander Summers. Alex," he took Holly by the hand and guided her up, "I'd very much like you to meet my sister, Holland Hughes."
The two joined hands in a leisurely shake.
"Wonderful to meet you, Alex."
Her beaming features made the blonde smile from ear to ear.
IIIIIII
"So what are you studying, Holly?" Kayla asked.
The younger woman put down her water glass. "Business with a minor in music."
"She's a singer, too," Sean said. "Her voice is incredible."
Holly waved that off. "Just a little leftover from my choir girl days. Trick is the real musician in this family." She looked to the one who had been seated right beside her. "So Alex, what are you majoring in?"
Alex swallowed down his meat to answer her. "Still undecided."
"Trick tells me you're a very impressive athlete. Any scouts after you?"
"WU doesn't exactly recognize surf and motorcycling," he replied. "I really don't get into team sports."
"Auntie Holly's a cheerleader," said Jasmine.
Alex looked thoroughly intrigued by this. "Really?"
From across the way, Cordelia's eyebrows formed a tight line.
"But I can appreciate any solo performer," Holly assured. "The loner is so often ridiculed, but it seems to me he works harder to find his own merit."
"So Cordy," Maya suddenly chimed up, "how's gymnastics been going?"
"Fine," the other teen answered. "Which reminds me, if I want to get any training in before bed, I need to make a sizable dent in my homework." She looked to the adults. "May I be excused?"
Charles said, "Take your dinner with you."
Cordelia gathered her fork and plate then left the dining room.
Alex brought up, "I got invited to this party on Saturday. Did you—"
"What party?" Erik cut in.
Alex faced him. "Not a party-party. A mixer one of the fraternity's is throwing."
Hank told Erik, "Raven and I are going as well."
"Yeah, don't worry, Erik." Raven picked up her glass with a sly grin. "We'll keep an eye on him."
Ready to dig his fingernails into the wooden table, Alex kept his attention on their guest. "So anyway, Holly, did you want to come with me?"
Holly grinned at him. "Definitely."
IIIIIII
Stepping back from lighting the parlor's fireplace, Charles sat across from Trick on a couch.
"Your sister seems like a wonderful breath of fresh air," the telepath remarked.
"You've no idea," Trick recalled. "She was the only member of my family to react to Jasmine's impending birth with genuine enthusiasm. She was only eight at the time, but made far more sense to me than our parents ever did. Though she and Yvonne don't have the greatest of relationships, she always stuck by us. She babysat for Jasmine so much she practically lived with us at one point."
Charles nodded. "I know personally the bliss a younger sister can bring into a family so empty. However, I can't help but be worried by her interest in Alex. Mainly how Cordelia perceives it."
"It's a schoolgirl's crush," Trick insisted. "Alex is much too old for Cordy."
Charles knew that made perfect sense to all parties except for the teenage girl in question.
IIIIIII
Opening the green shopping bag, Holly withdrew the sleeveless dress with white top and lavender skirt.
Jasmine gasped happily, taking it for closer observation. "It's gorgeous!"
"Just a little something I picked up in Miami. Along with," Holly removed a small box from the bag, "this to go with it."
Taking the box, Jasmine found the colorful seashell necklace within. "Ohhhh! Thank you, Aunt Hol!" She ran around her bed to hug her.
Holly kneaded fingers through the girl's caramel blonde hair. "You know I wouldn't dare show up here without something for my Precious Flower." She sat on the edge of the bed, locking eyes with her niece. "Now be honest with me. How are you doing here? Do you like it?"
Jasmine considered the questions for a moment. "Yeah, everyone's been good to us here. They just have so many rules. It's crazy sometimes. But Daddy's here. Frank's here. And the other kids are really great. You know Logan and Kayla are Cody's parents."
"I noticed," Holly nodded. "That's nice to see. I'm loving the atmosphere around here."
"Does that mean you're going to say a long time?" Jasmine sat by her on the bed.
Holly placed an arm around her, bringing her in close. "I have to fly back on Sunday afternoon. School and the like." Jasmine moaned against her, making her laugh. "But I was thinking we could round up your mates and have a day out when you guys get out of class."
"About that," Jasmine's eyes shifted slightly, "tomorrow's my last day of grounding."
"What on earth did Patty ever ground you for?" Holly wanted to know.
"Me and my friend Becky snuck over to one of my other friend's houses for a birthday party."
Holly looked confused. "Why didn't you just ask to go?"
"It was more for Becky than me," Jasmine explained. "Her dad, Erik, he gets real protective."
"Hm," Holly hummed. She had taken note of that at the dinner table.
IIIIIII
With an initial knock to the partially open door, Emma stuck her head in. "Sweetheart?"
"Come on in, sis," Cordelia invited without looking away from her homework.
"I don't mean to interrupt," Emma took a seat on the girl's bed, "I just wanted to talk. You seemed a little upset at dinner."
"Upset?" Cordelia glanced back at her in bewilderment.
"About Holly. Specifically, Holly and Alex."
"Oh that?" Cordelia scoffed. "I don't even have time to worry about trivial things like that these days. I just got back into gymnastics with mutant training on top of it. Not to mention all this schoolwork. The only blonde gentleman I have time for around here is Joey."
Emma nodded positively. "That's good. But if you do want to talk- about anything," she stood, pecking Cordelia's temple, "you know where to find me."
"Thanks, Em. Love you."
"I love you, too, Cor." Emma took her leave.
Turning back to her paper, Cordelia resumed her doodle of the beautiful brunette warrior trouncing the redheaded hydra.
IIIIIII
Alex insisted, "I was going to tell you about the party. I just got distracted."
"Yes, by a radiant smile and a pair of hazel eyes," Erik noted, picking up the scattered marbles near his desk that Becky and Frank had left behind during one of their many games. "You asked her if she'd like to attend, but I don't recall you asking me if you could."
"Aw, Er-ik," Alex near whined, sitting up on the couch. "Please don't do this to me. I do good in school, I give a hundred and fifty percent around here, and I'm an instructor now."
"And as an instructor, we are all accountable to each other," the man reminded him pointedly.
The nineteen-year-old sighed. "Yes, sir."
Erik nodded. "Now, tell me more about this little gathering." He went to stand before him. "Is it being thrown by that one fraternity that's been hounding you?"
"The Phi Kappa Alphas," Alex confirmed. "It's not that I want to rush. I just want to check it out."
Erik pronounced, "I want you home before midnight and there had better not be the faintest trace of alcohol on your breath."
"Erik, come on," Alex got to his feet, "that's not what I'm in college for."
Gripping the young man's chin tenderly, Erik stated, "Remember also that you're there for an education, not for socializing."
Not wanting to take time to argue that particular point, Alex nodded into his hand then left the den.
Going up to his quarters, the blonde teenager sharply paused upon entry.
"…Hey."
"Hey." Holly sat up on his bed, legs tucked to the side of herself. "I hope you don't mind this terribly. Big house, many people. I figured the only way to narrow any of you down," she stood to approach him, "is to be direct."
"Brainy chick," Alex observed coyly. "Am I gonna be this smart when I'm a sophomore?" She smiled cutely at him. "What can I do for you?"
Holly gave off a light shrug. "So many things… in particular helping me unfetter my niece and your merry brood of small people for an afternoon out tomorrow."
Alex guaranteed, "I'll come straight home after my last class."
"I'll be waiting." She started out.
Thinking about something, Alex called after her, "Unfetter?"
She looked back for a moment, "You'll learn it by sophomore year," then continued out.
After his door shut, Alex walked backward until he fell out across his bed, his gaze going to the ceiling.
IIIIIII
At the sharp contact to her rear end, Raven jumped up in her bed and let off a highly feminine chirp.
"Hey doctor mister, I could have your child within me at this very moment for all you know," she mentioned. "Our own McCoy Mini Mutant."
"It's a good thing my favorite target has nothing to do with your uterus." He arched over the bed to kiss her then looked upon her assortment of notebooks. "Homework?"
"Studying." Raven looked back at the papers. "Two quizzes and a test tomorrow."
Hank laid down beside her. "So we're going to a party."
She glanced at him. "That's okay with you, right? I know it's not our usual Sean and Maya, we-rule-the-world –with-our-coolness crowd."
"Honestly?" Hank looked to consider it. "College was a great time and I've often wished I could relive it. Now it's like I'm getting the opportunity- with you." When she smiled and rolled over against him, he caught her with one arm. "Don't shake my baby."
IIIIIII
Linens in hand, Trick entered one of the many guest quarters the mansion had to offer.
"This grand old house has a nip to it at night." He placed the bed things down then took notice of his sister's expression. "Hol…" She showed what she had behind her back. "Oh that had better not be my original Billie Holiday. She can never make another."
"I loved her," Holly put forth.
"I lusted her," he countered.
She said in turn, "I cried when she died."
He informed her, "And you're going to die if you don't fork that over."
"You have to catch me first, knobby-knees." Holly shot out of the room with that.
Growling at the reminder of his gym class days, Trick hurried after her. "Holland Isabel Hughes!"
With a tight grip on the vinyl, Holly used the banister to glide downstairs, laughing wildly.
Turning intangible he phased underneath the floor and popped up again right before her.
Holly gasped and stopped then accused, "Cheater!"
"Brat," he returned, plucking the album out of her hands. He pointed a finger at her nose, attempting to hide his amusement as he chided her. "You absolute urchin- I should take you right over my knee and pound you until your arse matches that hair."
Holly threw her arms around him in a tight hug. "I love you."
Trick returned the embrace. "And?"
"Tony Bennett wishes he had a third of your talent."
"And?" he prompted again.
She said, "Yvonne's present beau has a lima bean for a penis."
He smiled and gave her a squeeze. "God I've missed you."
Holly peeked. "Enough to lift Jas' restriction a trifle early tomorrow?"
Considering it, Trick replied, "Since you're in town and it's the last day of it… yes, I surrender."
Jumping up with great enthusiasm, she asked less lightheartedly, "Spoken to the 'rents?"
Trick leaned back. "Went to see Dad last week. Fell over in giddiness at the sight of me as usual."
Holly's eyes gave off a shine. "Even with the new job? The stability?"
"Jolly girl," Trick looked at her seriously, "our father is a man capable of many things. Regard for me doesn't make the list."
She promised, "It will always be at the top of mine."
He gave her a small smile, "I know," before they embraced again.
IIIIIII
The colorful cluster of people paraded away from the Xavier Mansion in eager fashion. Jasmine, Frank, and Scott maneuvered on their skateboards. Becky, Cody, and Joey biked. Alex took up the front of the group while Holly brought up the rear, both in rollerblades.
Frank took a moment to glide around Jasmine. "Remember this move?" Riding backwards, he jumped, clicked his board, and landed right back on it.
"I remember your mom dang near having a heart attack when you sprained your ankle," Jasmine brought up.
Scott slowed down a little to wait on Becky's bike to come near him. "I could show you how to skateboard sometime- if you want."
She smiled over at him. "Sure!"
"Your bike's so cool, Joey," Cody remarked.
Joey said, "Thanks. My dad got it for me."
Frank looked back at them. "After he knocked mine over."
"Water under the bridge." Alex gave Frank a pointed glance.
Giving Frank a look himself, Cody rode forward. "We don't do a lotta skateboardin' where I'm from. But I do know this move." He rushed ahead and made use of a sloped rock, which launched him upward a few feet. He kicked his legs back before landing.
"Now that was fly," Jasmine remarked.
Frank's eyes narrowed.
"Cody," Alex moved over to him, "you need to be careful. You can't be trying out stunts like that."
"No big deal," Cody shrugged. "Not like I won't heal up quick."
Alex's tone got sharper. "You wouldn't need to heal if you were careful in the first place."
Holly got close to him. "No bringing the party down, Instructor Man. Come on, gang."
They followed her lead straight to the local park, which led to scattering across the numerous playground equipment. Cody and Joey went for the swings, Frank and Scott the jungle gym, and Holly joined Becky and Jasmine on the merry-go-round. Alex chased Frank and Scott back and forth for several minutes before going to push a somewhat struggling Joey on the swing.
Glancing towards the swing set, Holly hopped down a moment. "Be right back, ladies." She skated off towards the fountain.
Alex spotted her movement and went after her. "Where do you think you're going?"
She glided around to the other side of the fountain where far less people gathered. "Thought I'd make a wish. But since you're here," she removed a nickel from her pocket and tossed it in, "what is it you want?" When he paused to think about, she began skating in a circular motion around him. "Tick-tock, stud."
Watching the blur of red hair with bright smile, Alex acted on what he felt next and grabbed her. Holly's mouth opened but no sound came out nor did it have time as Alex's lips enclosed on hers.
He pulled back abruptly to gouge her reaction.
Taking a moment to breathe, Holly seized his head between both her hands and resumed things.
Holding on securely to her, Alex moved back a few steps. So lost in his present actions, he forgot he had skates on and caused both of them to tip backward into the fountain. With a small shriek, Holly landed on top of Alex, who received the most impact from the hard splash.
"Sorry," Alex chuckled.
Holly looked at him with sincerity. "I'm not."
Pressing a hand to her back, Alex brought her in as close as he could before their lips met yet again.
"I forgot how amazing Holly is," Frank said.
"Yeah, she's so much fun," Becky concurred.
Jasmine smiled proudly. "You and Joey aren't the only kids in school with cool aunts."
Scott looked over as the older pair approached. "What happened to you guys?"
Both stifling laughter, Holly replied, "Coordination issues. We thought we could dry off on our way to the ice cream parlor."
The kids hurried up to reclaim their different forms of transportation.
IIIIIII
Dressed in blue track pants with a t-shirt and hood, Holly made her way into the gym.
She went to stand over the one on the floor mat. "How many of those do you do a night?"
Alex sat up from his crunches. "Up to two hundred." He took a swig from his nearby water bottle.
Holly held a hand out, going to touch his abs. "Rock solid. Just like every other part of you."
"Think you got me figured out already, huh?"
"Super brother, super bodily specimen," she danced fingers down his right arm, "super powered… what is it they call you?"
He eyed her hand. "Havok. With a K."
"Havok." Her breathy tone left the word in a near echo.
Alex smiled. "So, cheerleader huh?"
"H. A…" She jumped to her feet in a sudden burst. "V! O! K! Go Havok! Go, go! Go Havok!"
He leaned back, propped up by his elbows to take in the performance.
"H! A! V! O! K!"
Holly swayed her hips rhythmically, waving her arms in the air.
"He's the force that can't be beat. Bet on him, you're in for a treat. Strong and cute, his skills are ab-so-lute. X-Man tried and true, stick with him and he'll stand by you!" She kicked the air and finished off with a horizontal split, right fist raised high.
Alex threw his head back in laughter then clapped. "If I could find this secret well," he got up, moving around her on all fours, "where you and Trick keep all the energy…"
"Here," she pulled on the front of his sweat soaked undershirt, "have a taste." She pressed her lips to his.
Laying against the mat, Alex brought her down on top of him for full absorption.
Mouth wide open, Cordelia stepped backward from the doorway in a robotic motion. By the time she made it back to the main level of the house, she attempted to catch her breath but could not find the air.
"Cordy?" The petitioned one looked to see that Maya had just walked up. "Are you okay?"
"Yes, just," Cordelia smiled at her, "killer workout. I think I'll turn in early." She jogged up the stairs.
Maya watched her go, taking immediate note of the lack of sweat on her clothes.
IIIIIII
Hands in the pockets of his slacks, Erik strolled in through the partially open doorway to see the young man buttoning the top portion of his navy button down shirt.
"Aren't we handsome?" the Poland native commented.
Alex turned to look at him. "Yeah, we are. You look good, too. Where are you guys going, anyway?"
"It's the Brothers Howlett-Creed turn to pick. I assume potato skins will be involved." He touched Alex's forearm, bringing him over a bit. "I wanted to talk to you about something."
"Erik," Alex gaped at him in humor, "I get it. No boozing."
"That's been established," Erik stated. "However, there's another topic of which we've only scratched the surface."
Going over the list of possibilities, Alex pieced together just what the man meant. "Erik, no, no… please, God no."
Erik assured, "This is going to hurt me more than it does you," then led them over towards the bed.
"Where have I heard that before?" the teen mumbled as they sat.
"Now," Erik began, "Holly, putting it mildly, is an incredibly attractive young woman. And you, my boychick, aren't so terrible yourself. You've managed to keep control of these urges for many years, but beyond that, you need to show respect. For her body as well as your own."
"So, basically you're saying…"
"If Papa's not having it," Erik patted him on the leg, "you're not having it."
Alex had to work to keep a straight face as he replied, "Yes, sir." When a satisfied Erik stood to go, Alex said after him, "Just something about redheads, huh?"
Looking back, Erik pointed a knowing finger at him before leaving out.
IIIIIII
"That was incredible." Holly slipped off the motorcycle. "Absolute murder on my hair, though."
Flipping one leg over his bike in order to face her, Alex took off his own helmet and informed, "Too bad for you. It's about to get worse."
Holly let loose a small giddy outcry as he leaned in to kiss her hard. She danced both sets of fingers through his head of yellow.
"Whoa!" Raven exclaimed at the sight of them. "I wonder if the fire station can spare their hose."
Hank frowned. "What do you think you're doing?"
After a few seconds, Alex pulled back, smiled at Holly, then looked up. "It's called having fun, Hank. Isn't that what we came here for?"
Holly touched his shoulders. "I know I did."
Hank cleared his throat and held his arm out grandly. "Ladies, please."
Raven waited for Holly to get up before they walked ahead together out of the student parking lot. The males followed after them.
"Alex," Hank hissed into his ear, "what is the matter with you? You two haven't known each other for more than forty eight hours and you're behaving that way in public?"
"You know something, Hank? You're absolutely right. Maybe I'll try," Alex looked thoughtful for a moment, "stumbling over my every word and taking every opportunity to act like a complete dork in front of her." He slapped the taller man's back lightly. "Worked for you, didn't it?"
Hank had to work to corral the Beast portion of himself over the cheeky youth.
Their ears picked up on music before they reached the spacious brick Phi Kappa Alpha bungalow. Upon entry, they found many of the fraternity members dressed in the traditional crimson and gold along with several young women, presumably from their sister sorority.
"Leon," Alex recognized and led the group to where he leaned near a phone lamp. "Hey, man." They slapped hands in a brief shake. "This is Holly. Hol, this is my guy Leon."
Holly extended a hand to him. "It's a pleasure."
"Hello," Leon greeted good-naturedly as they shook.
Alex pointed back with his thumb. "That's Raven's husband."
"Who's name is Hank," Raven filled in with a nudge to Alex's ankle.
"Hi," Hank greeted Leon.
Shaking with him now, Leon immediately observed in an even tone, "You're intimidatingly large."
Shifting his eyes a moment, Hank came back with, "Thank you."
Alex asked, "Where's Jam?"
"He's being propositioned." Leon indicted the thrall of people all but hovering over the unsuspecting freshman. "They latched on to him within five seconds of entry. Apparently, recruiting him is a high priority."
Raven added knowingly, "And a huge slap in the face to the Omegas."
Leon looked at her. "There's that."
Holly slipped her arm through Alex's. "I take it the Omegas are the big rivals."
"Basically," Raven answered, "though it goes a little deeper than that."
Holly got a good look at Jam. "Racial differences?" She then said, "There's been a great deal of protesting at Florida universities."
Luke Berg approached them with extended welcoming arms. "Alex, good to see you." He then noticed Raven and bowed deeply. "Your Highness."
Raven could not help the small smile. "Meet my king." She hugged her husband's arm. "Dr. Hank McCoy. This is Luke, he's the head of the fraternity."
Luke stood, clearly impressed then turned back to Alex. "I owe you a great deal of thanks, Summers."
Alex looked confused. "For what?"
"For what?" Luke repeated incredulously. "You got Jamal Porter to grace us with his presence. We've been trying to get in here for a while yet, but his family obligations kept him at bay."
"I thought this fraternity didn't practice segregation."
Luke glanced back, taking notice of Leon for the first time that evening. "I think you have us confused with some other organization." Luke returned to the others. "Have fun. Take as much as you like from the refreshment table." He pointed it out.
"Have anything with a boost to it?" Holly asked meaningfully.
Luke immediately shook his head. "No chance. This frat is dry unless it's an off-campus activity. If the deans heard I let a bunch freshman drink, it'd be my head with choice of platter."
Hank looked visibly relieved at that and Alex eased off as well while Holly's lips turned up in a slight pout.
IIIIIII
Knocking twice, Maya awaited a response before trying a third and fourth time.
"Cordy?" she called out. "We're having a bake fest; anything goes. Want to—" she opened the door to a deserted bedroom.
Moving on to the downstairs, Maya checked the gym, also finding it empty. She tried the library and a few other common spaces, bumping into Sean on the second floor hallway.
"Hey, what's wrong?" he asked, noticing her face.
"Have you seen Cordelia?"
Sean thought a moment. "Not since dinner." He then completely understood. "Wait. Are you saying she took off? Why?"
"Alex," Maya surmised. "Ever since Holly showed up, they've been spending a lot of time together. Cordy's been acting like it doesn't bother her, but I know something's wrong." She thought of something that made her eyes widen. "Okay, I know this is going to sound wild, but what if she went to WU? To, I don't know, spy them out or something."
Sean stared at her blankly. "It's Cordelia. The girl who crosses states in a single bound. It's not that crazy. We better get Charles and Em on the communicator."
"No," Maya immediately turned down. "I don't want things to escalate. We can talk to her— I'll talk to her."
Sean offered in turn, "I'll drive."
IIIIIII
Approaching a crowd of older frat males that practically talked over each other, Holly linked arms with Alex.
"Honey," she whined, "you haven't paid me any attention all night."
Alex shook his head and looked at the others. "Chicks." They walked away and he sighed in complete relief. "Thank you, thank you, thank you. If I had to listen to another ten minutes about Alpha from generations where togas were a fashion statement."
She wound arms around his neck. "I thought we could have our own private party."
He gripped her waist. "Oh really?"
Looking around them, Holly twisted one doorknob and brought them into the darkened bedroom. Alex shut the door after them.
"Though I hate drinking vodka straight," she removed the bottle of clear liquid from her purse, "I suppose it's better than nothing."
"Relax." Holly took his hand and walked them to the unmade bed to sit. "They're too busy with their schmooze fest." She removed the lid of the bottle and took a long drink of it before holding it out to her hesitant companion. "What? Don't behave as if you suddenly loathe the taste of me."
"Trust me, that's not it," Alex assured. "But I told Er—" He paused a moment, tone growing more serious. "I promised my dad I wouldn't mess with that stuff."
Holly gazed at him curiously. "Did you?"
At his nod, she stood straight up. Alex watched her go to the window and slide it open. Holding the bottle upside down, she poured the entirety of its contents out onto the grass. Closing the window again, she spotted the waste bin and stuffed the bottle down to the bottom of it.
Alex gave her a tilted smile and stretched out against the headboard. Holly climbed on top of him and their lips met under the limited light. They remained that way for nearly a full minute before Alex rolled, raised just above her now. When she allowed his tongue in again, they promptly restarted things.
Holly gasped for air and breathed into his neck while Alex held her as tightly as he could. He dragged a hand up and down her back, able to feel her bra strap straight through her dress.
Maneuvering her hands, Holly worked to get his belt unbuckled.
As the leather moved through the loops, Alex's eyes shot open and he jumped back onto the edge of the bed.
A confused Holly studied his features, visible to her only by the window's meager illumination.
"We can't do this," he urged.
"Of course we can," she countered simply, crawling over to get in close to him. "Admit it, stud. We both want it."
"Oh hell yeah," Alex concurred wholeheartedly. "But Holly, babe, I don't want it like this." He began fixing his belt. "You are so much better than a bang session."
The bottom of her mouth honestly dropped before twisting into a sad grin. "Not according to my parents. I'm doomed to be a tramp, no matter what." She stood up.
Alex frowned and got up after her. "What are you talking about?"
"Ever since Jasmine was conceived, I have heard nonstop "see how your brother turned out?", "we lost one child already", "is that what you want, to end up like your brother?"." Holly scoffed, spinning around to face him. "Trick got lost in a single moment and they used it to define everything else about him. They didn't see how he took responsibility, how he married that pathetic ultra-transparent Yvonne Johnson, how he probably would have died if he'd have lost custody of that baby." Her eyes started to fill. "I love my niece so much, but they can't let go of how she got here. They can't let go of anything."
Sitting again, Alex pulled her down into his lap. "My baby brother Joey- his birth mother abandoned him on the side of the road."
Horror instantly covered Holly's face. "What? Little Joey? How is he able to…?"
"It took a lot of work," Alex emphasized. "And he's still not all the way there. His birth father is anybody's guess and because of his powers, people in his old town treated him like shit. I just… kids are the only good this whole stupid world has to offer. I don't understand how anybody can look down on them, regardless of where they came from, who they came from, or what they look like. It's bull."
"Complete bull," she agreed. "My mother and I have had maybe four or five conversations at the most since I left for university. She has convinced herself that I put such a distance between us so I may slut myself about at will. My father's no better, but he saves most of his "devoted attention" for Trick. I figured since they see me as easy… why not give into it?"
"Baby, you are too sexy, smart, pretty, perfect ten for a cheap reputation," he smirked, "unless you get it fooling around with me."
She gave him a mock slap to the cheek. "You are above your own league, Alexander Summers." Holly smiled at him. "I want to see it."
"I can't drop my pants with you sitting here."
"I mean," she got in close to his ear, "show me why they call you Havok. With a K."
He shook his head hard. "No, no, no, no. No chance. Especially not in here."
She shrugged. "Then let's get out of here."
Getting up, she took his hand and led them to the window. Opening it, she skillfully climbed out.
Alex rolled his eyes but followed. "Stay back." He walked several paces away from her. Checking their area, he held up a hand and shot out a teeny red flare. "Happy now?"
Holly stood back with arms folded. "Oh come off it. That was so Havok with a C of you."
He jabbed a finger her way. "Watch your language. Fine," he rubbed his hands together, "one more."
As he warmed up, Holly jumped in front of him. Alex yelled and fell back, sending the flare straight up into the night sky.
Holly watched the beam. "That was most certainly K worthy."
Alex glared, jumping to his feet. "Holland! Geez, I could've—"
She placed her arms around him. "Could've, would've—"
"Still should," he said pointedly.
Hair falling entirely over one shoulder, Holly looked upon him silently.
Letting out a humored breath, Alex dipped his head to kiss her.
IIIIIII
After Sean got them parked on the street, he and Maya climbed out of the BMW.
"This campus is huge," Sean gazed around, "it'll take forever to find her."
"Let's split up," Maya put forth.
"You got your communicator?"
She held up her wrist containing the device. "Always."
Sean nodded and the couple divided up.
Maya moved across the well landscaped campus until her ears picked up on strong music. She detected it coming from a nearby bungalow and jogged over. Finding the door unlocked, she walked right in.
"Excuse me?" she called out over the throng of people. "Excuse me! Has anyone seen-" When she managed to squeeze her way to the front of the crowd, her face nearly hit the floor at what the excitement was all about.
II
"I really want to open my own lounge after I graduate." Holly nestled against Alex's chest, his arm around her. "Not a dive, but something classy. Where Trick could sing and Jasmine can sit there right up front, watching her father do his thing completely uninhibited."
Alex lightly pecked the top of her head. "Jas is a really great kid. She's our Spirit for a reason."
Holly smiled. "You really have no prospects for majors?"
"Hmm… you'd have to keep it quiet. I wanted to bring it up to Erik and Charles first."
She tapped her lips. "Sealed shut. Especially when attached to yours."
A chuckle rumbled in his chest before he grew serious. "Charles and Emma were in a car accident a while back and Charles' leg got banged up bad. He asked me to help him, for some reason, and slowly but surely… I remember when he got up out of his wheelchair and walked straight to Joey."
"That's amazing," she reacted.
He nodded. "If I could help people do that every day, it'd be the greatest feeling. I'm considering physical therapy."
She moved up to better face him. "Will you heal me?"
"Mouth-to-mouth?" he suggested wryly.
Before they could go forward with the procedure, the commotion outside of the room proved too much to ignore.
II
Blue jean hugged hips shaking from side to side, Cordelia moved to the beat on high heeled feet, yellow flowing top swaying with her every motion.
"Cordy!" Maya dashed forward. "Cordelia, get down from there."
"Why?" Cordelia grinned at her crowd. "I'm the life of the party."
Departing the bedroom with Holly, Alex went over to stand by Jam and Leon. "What is going on out here?"
"Man, check that talent," Jam marveled, smile plastered all over his face. "That girl is—"
"Dead meat," Alex stated upon recognition. He stormed ahead, practically shoving everyone in his path out of the way. "Cordelia, get your psychotic butt down."
The brunette put a hand on her hip and looked down at him haughtily. "So now I'm in your line of sight. Why don't you get back to your dime store whore?"
"Cordelia, swear to God," Alex yanked her down by the arm, "I am not playing with you."
"Hey Alex, Alex," one of the frat members said, "what's the problem here? The lady said she doesn't want to go with you."
"This "lady" is a sixteen-year-old high school girl," Alex informed.
Immediate contrite silence fell over the group.
Luke came over. "High school? Are you kidding me? If anyone finds out I had an under-aged girl in here without authorization—"
"Better make that two, dear." Holly pointed out Maya, who smiled awkwardly.
About ready to burst, Luke demanded, "Alex, get the teen. Scene. Out!"
Dragging Cordelia out with Maya and Holly right after them, Alex declared, "You are in so much trouble."
Once they were outside, Cordelia jerked away from him. "You're not the boss of me."
Alex gave her a sharp glare. "Cordelia, so help me God…"
Summoning up her gold casing, Cordelia somersaulted up and began to leap away.
Maya's eyes enlarged. "Oh boy…"
II
Hand in hand, Hank and Raven paused from their walk around the block at the sight of a familiar tall redhead.
"Sean?" Raven acknowledged.
"What are you doing here?" Hank asked with concern. "Is everything okay?"
Before Sean could answer, the glimmering figure ran by.
Alex came up next with a bellow of, "Cor-de-lia!"
"Alex, wait!" Maya hurried after him.
"In heels here!" Holly wobbled to keep up with them.
Sean finally answered Hank with, "Definitely not okay."
Making use of his own acrobatics, Hank jumped and seized Cordelia by clamping arms around her much smaller body. She squirmed in vain to get away.
"Cordelia," Hank spoke calmly, "keep that up and something is going to happen right here, right now that you will not enjoy. Trust in that."
The deflated girl returned to her flesh form.
"Oh she's had it any way it goes." Alex started to advance.
Holly grabbed his arm. "Alex. You have to calm down."
"Yes, please," Maya urged.
Raven whistled sharply. "Can everybody calm down long enough to explain this meeting of the minds?"
Still holding Cordelia, Hank said, "I propose we return home and sort it out there." He looked between Sean and Maya. "Wait, if you're both here, who's home with the kids?"
"Uh," Sean shifted back and forth on his feet, "Frank?"
IIIIIII
Laughter and conversation filled the main floor as the seven adults walked through. They entered into the living room, where Becky and Joey cuddled together under a fleece throw with Bounty, Jasmine stretched out on the couch, and Frank and Scott lay head to toe on the floor. The glow from the television illuminated the room.
"If that's not the cutest sight outside of Heaven," Trick remarked.
"Kids're always cute," said Logan, "when they're asleep."
They all spread out to go to the resting young ones.
After Erik had Becky in his arms, he went over to Frank, who began to stir. "Shh. Go back to sleep, boychick."
Frank groaned and sat up a bit. "Sean and Maya back yet?"
Emma looked up from seeing about Scott. "Back?"
"Where are they?" Charles wanted to know. He soon received an answer as the swarm of youthful minds hit him all at once.
IIIIIII
Trying to get the intense commotion under control, Charles attempted to speak over them but it proved in vain.
Erik tried next, causing every single piece of metal in the kitchen to bang at once. The loud noise silenced them.
"Thank you," Charles said to his brother then looked to the ones seated at the table. "Now Henry, from the top, please."
"That's just it, Charles," Hank said. "I'm not completely sure what transpired here. Raven and I decided to get some air so we went on a walk. That's when we bumped into Sean right before Cordelia barreled through. In her mutated form."
Emma turned to her sister disbelievingly. "What?"
"Alex shouldn't have grabbed me," the girl insisted.
"You had no business table dancing in the middle of the frat house," Alex shot back.
"Table dancing?" Charles echoed, completely taken aback.
"I was dancing above the floor," Cordelia said simply. "It's not like I removed clothing. What's so wrong about that?"
"You shouldn't have even been there," Sean brought up.
Logan pointed out Maya. "Where were you doing there?"
"We were trying to find Cordy before things got out of hand," Maya tried to explain. "But then Alex came out of the bedroom with Holly—" She quickly silenced at her own words.
"Bedroom?" Erik and Trick spoke in unison.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa." Alex held up his hands defensively. "We were talking. That's it."
Trick put his hands on his hips. "Then why are you wearing that lovely shade of lip gloss?"
Victor threw out, "I hope to God there's a good reason behind that one."
Holly admitted, "We were Frenching, okay? That's it."
"Holland Isabel," Trick went around to her chair, "I am surprised." He then looked at Alex. "And you mister, you haven't known her so much as a week. As a brother, I am angry. As a fellow man, do tell me what your secret is."
Alex shrugged with a smirk.
Maya shook her head. "What do perfectly intelligent women see in you?"
Alex gaped at her and Sean snorted.
"This is chaotic," Kayla said in exasperation.
"And I don't like it." Logan crossed his arms. "College. That ain't no place for young girls." Kayla whipped her head back to look at him. "Uh, you know what I mean, darlin'."
Silence, please Charles sent into every mind. "Right then… Cordelia, whatever the case may be, you had no business leaving this house at night by yourself to attend a fraternity party. Then to exercise your mutation in public? Up to your room immediately." The girl stood and hurried up without argument. "Sean, Maya, though I know you had the best of intentions, you should have contacted us instead of going off with the hopes of helping Cordelia evade us. Not to mention you left the children alone."
"It was only for a couple hours," Sean pointed out. "Plus Frank isn't stupid. He can hang out with them for a little while and look, things went fine."
Erik said, "That isn't the point. We don't want them left alone because of safety. You know that."
Sean sighed. "Yes, sir."
"We're really sorry," Maya added sincerely.
Kayla went over to rub her shoulders comfortingly.
After exchanging a look with Erik, Charles declared, "You two are grounded for the remainder of this weekend and it's training sessions only after school on Monday and Tuesday."
Erik added, "And if this happens again…" He gave off a raised eyebrow that provided no need for him to finish that sentence.
"Yes, sir," the young couple said together.
"Alright," Charles nodded, softening. "Go on up and get some rest."
Sean got up and hugged Emma then followed after Maya who left with the Howletts in tow. Victor walked out as well.
Holly turned to Raven. "Is this standard protocol around here?"
Raven nodded. "Oh yes. They hate partying." They stood up together and started out. "I remember this one time when we were working for the CIA- Alex's aim really sucked back then."
"Raven," Alex growled, shooting up after them.
Hank laughed and went along.
Trick turned to the men. "Scotch after tuck-ins?" They nodded and he walked out.
Erick patted Charles' back before leaving himself.
Emma eased herself into one of the vacant chairs. She put a hand to her eyes and started to weep.
Charles frowned deeply and rushed to her. "Love? Love, what's the matter?"
"I'm a terrible sister." Emma hitched a breath. "I knew something was wrong, but I wanted to believe it right, anyway."
"Shhh." Charles wrapped her arms around her. "Emma, come now. Don't upset yourself. This was all silly teenage hijinks."
Emma looked up at him. "I just wonder if things will ever be right between us."
"They will." Charles kissed her wet cheek then used his pocket handkerchief to clean the remaining tears away.
IIIIIII
Expecting her sister and the Professor, Cordelia glanced up from hugging her stuffed dog only to find Alex in the doorway.
"Hey. Can I come in?"
She thought then nodded. "Are you still mad?"
He shook his head. "Just here to talk." Pulling out her desk chair, he sat in it backwards facing her. "Listen to me, baby girl. I love you so much," she watched him closely, "but I can't be with you. And it has nothing to do with who you are. You are a freaking cool girl and I look forward to tearing the arm off any little horn dog who tries to make a move on you." She laughed softly. "But fact is, I'm nineteen, you're sixteen. I'm in college, you're in high school. I'm your instructor and you're… one of mine. That part will never change."
"You have friends and a great life." Cordelia quieted then whispered, "I don't want to lose you."
"You won't," Alex promised. "Cor, you don't have to be with me to have me. You're already stuck with me, kid." He got to his feet then stood her to give her hug.
Cordelia rested on his shoulder. "I'm sorry, Alex."
Alex only rubbed her back in reassurance.
"Is everything alright?" Emma's voice sounded from the doorway, signaling hers and Charles' arrival.
Cordelia pulled back from the embrace and nodded.
Alex started out past the telepaths and said, "Don't kill her. I need her around."
Cordelia smiled after him then turned somber at the other two adults. "I don't know what I was thinking…"
Charles closed the door. "You seem to be a young lady of great many actions, but simply not enough thought beforehand."
Cordelia bowed her head. "I know. I'm just really sorry."
"Honey," Emma walked over, "if you don't talk, no one can help you. You see what keeping things inside did for me. I allowed a wedge to build between us."
Cordelia went in to hug her sister. "I don't want it here anymore."
Emma held her tightly. "I love you, sweetheart."
"I love you, too."
Charles stood back. He knew well that that punishment, of the painfully teary variety, was inevitable, but for a few minutes at least, he could not bring himself to interrupt them.
After a while, Emma pulled back with a whisper to her sister of, "See you in a bit." She squeezed Charles' arm as she headed out.
Cordelia faced the one remaining, her countenance and stature far more that of a small girl than a growing young woman.
Charles finally spoke. "It's time, young lady, for you and I to have a discussion." He sat in the desk chair Alex had left out and brought her over to stand before him. "This business of you keeping things bottled up until they cause this damage is going to stop. So that you remember to come to Emma, myself, or one of the other numerous instructors to be found here, I am going to spank you every single time you choose to make-believe all is well. If I have my suspicions, I will read your mind and shall keep doing so until I can trust you to come to me on your own. Is that clear, my girl?"
"Yes, Charles," she replied softly.
"Right then. Now, it's time you faced your punishment for tonight." He gently pulled her across his lap.
At the new angle, Cordelia felt squirmy but tried to stay in place. With anyone else but the dear man it would have felt absolutely strange, with the possible exception of her own father if he were to suddenly deem it appropriate.
Raising his hand, Charles started the spanking off with the firmest swats he had to cover over the jean clad bottom. He kept a hand to her back, preventing her from jerking about too much. Knowing she still had not completely adjusted to this new-to-her form of discipline, Charles did not felt terribly bothered by her small amount of movement.
By the fourteenth smack, he heard her tears going. Reaching out for the nightstand, he took hold of the hairbrush and brought it down with an audible whack over thighs.
"Ouch!" the teenage girl howled.
With the knowledge that the implement made it that much harder, Charles only paddled her behind with it for eight strikes. He lowered the brush to the floor then picked up the sobbing girl to cradle in his protective clutch.
"There, there, love." Charles kissed her temple, continuously speaking soothing hushes into her ear. "Charles is all done now."
One arm went around his neck. "I love you."
He smiled and rubbed her back. "I love you, too." He managed to stand with her still in his grasp. "I want you to take a nice shower and get into your pajamas. When you're finished, I'm going to give you a little spot to eat then Emma and I will tuck you in. How does that sound?"
She sniffed and said, "Okay. Thank you."
"And also, I want you to spend tomorrow in your room thinking on this. I'll allow you a half an hour in the gym under Alex's supervision. Alright?"
"Alright," Cordelia repeated. She held on, never wanting to fall from the man's enduring grasp.
IIIIIII
A dream is a wish your heart makes
When you're fast asleep
In dreams you lose your heartaches
Trick stopped in the doorway, observing his sister with his niece. Holly lay down with the little girl in bed, her arms around her. Jasmine watched her aunt intently, as if she could see the words leave her lips.
Whatever you wish for, you keep
Have faith in your dreams and someday
Your rainbow will come smiling thru
No matter how your heart is grieving
If you keep on believing
the dream that you wish will come true
Jasmine threw arms around her as soon as she finished. "I don't want you to go, Auntie Jolly."
Holly had to fight to keep her voice strong. "Neither do I, Flower."
Trick walked in fully. "I thought tomorrow the three of us could have breakfast." He sat on the other side of Jasmine. "Then you girls could have some fun in the shops, maxing out my credit cards before we take Auntie to the airport. How's that sound?"
"Okay, Daddy." Jasmine looked back at Holly. "Will you stay with me tonight?"
"Right here," Holly guaranteed, already changed for bed. She faced her brother, reaching a hand out for him.
Trick linked up with her and used his spare arm to place around his daughter.
IIIIIII
Done adjusting his weight set, Alex lowered back down onto the bench and began lifting.
Light footsteps soon approached and placed the back in place in order to sit up. Holly stood a few feet away, dressed in a pink pencil skirt and white blouse. She had her hair up with her purse draped over one shoulder.
"So," Alex got up and walked over, "heading out, huh?"
"In a few minutes. I'm going to spend some time with my family then it's off to the airport." She tilted her head slightly at him. "I don't suppose you'll want to…"
Alex shook his head. "I don't do airports. I don't do planes."
A certain smile tugged at her lips. "Right." She extended a hand.
Taking it, Alex held on for a few seconds before yanking her forward. Holly stepped out of her heels as he hoisted her up into his arms for a lengthy kiss.
Putting her back down into her shoes, Alex ran a hand through his hair. "See ya."
"Ta, stud," she waved, leaving out.
Alex finished his weight count then went up into the kitchen, seeing Sean at the island. "Hey." He went to the refrigerator.
"Hey." Sean looked up from his cereal. "How're you holding up?"
Alex looked back, water bottle in hand. "Who died?"
"You know what I mean. Holly's leaving."
"Oh, that?" Alex let off a dismissive breath. "Seanie, Seanie, Seanie. I'm not you and Hank, okay? I don't start hearing wedding bells over the first girl to show me interest. If that were the case, I'd have gotten married at like age five. I mean, dude, I'm in college." Bottle in hand, he walked back out.
Sean only shook his head and returned to his food.
Going into the living room, Alex went to stand in front of a window. He watched Trick's car depart from the grounds.
He glanced back at a hand to his shoulder, seeing Erik there.
The man stated, "Something about redheads."
Looking pensive a moment, Alex turned to him fully. "Mind if we go to the Mag Cave? I want to talk to you about something. About what I'd like to study."
Nodding, Erik started for his den, slipping an arm around the young man's shoulders as they went.