Rise or Fall

by Heiress Mellie

First Class: Charles and Erik have accepted their roles as guardians and headmasters over the young mutants but there is still work to be done for the greater than typical family. This is a familial and discipline, including spanking, centered fiction.

125. Chapter 125 Frosts Nipping at Your Nose

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Twenty Five

Author's Word: Hi, fam. So to start, good news. The wildness from the previous week blew over for the most part with no serious problems resulting from it. Such a relief, I can't tell you. So I don't know if any of you noticed but since Chapter 119 the chapter titles have been lyrics from different Christmas carols. Figure out exactly which carols between 119 to this one and you win- something.

Also, before the obvious is stated, yes this chapter is insanely freakishly long. If you want you can consider it to be Rise or Fall: The Motion Picture (3D optional and most likely will not cause enhancement of any kind). No? Then read it as you're procrastinating homework and/or bill payment. Save the excuses and guilty looks. We all do it. In any case, please enjoy and review!

With the moonlight beaming in through the windows, the illumination allowed Charles full view of the one he peered in on. There the beautiful blonde creature lay on her back with eyes peacefully shut and an instinctive hand across her stomach. He quietly ached for her to join him in his own bed, a sleeping place that felt so empty without her to awaken to.

Rest well my loves, he wished of his lady and the child she carried for them.

Charles shut her door softly and proceeded downstairs. He stopped off for a moment in the living room to admire their tree along with each tiny ornament representing a member of his household. He then moved on to his study.

Sitting behind the desk, he decided against working on future classwork in favor of a nice book.

When the abrupt but welcomed presence filled him next, the Professor looked to the doorway in time to catch the one in green pajamas with a jumble of bed head making his way in.

"Little one," he closed the book and scooted his chair back to open his lap space, "what are you doing up at this hour? Did you have a bad dream?"

Joey shook his head and climbed up to sit on his legs. "I couldn't sleep. I kept feeling excited all over."

Charles used his fingers to comb at the unruly hair. "Looking forward to seeing your grandfather? And opening all of your lovely presents come Christmas morning?" Joey nodded and Charles smirked knowingly. "Hm, I'm picking up something else." He touched both their temples. "Magic, knights, and something about a future king." He tickled the boy's chin at the end of the sentence.

Joey rubbed at his chin and smiled up at him. "Daddy, can we please go see The Sword in the Stone on Christmas morning? And be the firsts in line? Please?"

"We still have to see about that, son," Charles lifted him up so that they were nose to nose, "But something tells me that this particular Christmas morning will offer far more than anything the cinema has in store."

The child proved intrigued. "Like what?"

"We'll just have to wait and find out, won't we?"

Joey sighed lightly. "Everything good means a wait."

Charles said, "I thought the same until I received one of the things I really wanted."

"What?"

"A little boy to call my own." Charles held onto him tighter.

Eyes glistening a bit, Joey cuddled against his father's cheek then looked up when he considered something. "You know what? It's my first Christmas again. As Charles Joey Xavier."

"That's right," Charles replied. "I hadn't realized it until now. I suppose it's because you've always been an Xavier in my eyes." He squeezed his hand. "I only hope to live a life that makes you proud to carry my first name as well."

"What?" Joey turned completely flabbergasted. "I'm already proud of that. More than anything in the world."

"More than anything in the world," Charles parroted him lightly. He brought his son towards his front. "Try and rest now, little one." Charles patted the small bottom soothingly. "We're sure to discover lots more excitement tomorrow."

At the tiny taps combined with the feeling of the man's shoulder, Joey's eyes soon closed.

With the small body in his grasp, Charles felt his own worries start to dissipate as though Merlin's wand had summoned them away.

IIIIIII

Ready for the day ahead in a casual outfit of dark pants and a navy cashmere sweater, the long red locks toppled down against her shoulders before she could bind them into a bun. Responding to the buzz, she left the bedroom and maneuvered through the top floor suite until she reached the front. Taking a moment to peep through the small viewing hole, she unlocked and opened the door.

"My brother likes two sugars," Victor extended the foam cup out at her, "Hope you're good with that."

"Thank you," was all she said. She accepted the beverage and stepped back. "Please, come in."

He walked inside and started for her small seating area off the kitchen. "Sorry about hightailin' it like that last night. I had to get back to work."

"Think nothing of it." The aroma from the package he had with him caught her attention. "Are those chocolate chip muffins?"

Victor looked at her with a gleam in one eye. "I won't tell your hoighty toighty model friends if you won't."

"I'm going to have to hold you to that." Adrienne walked over to the table and he pulled her chair out. "My," she sat, "this is a wonderful surprise. Then again, you seem to be one big surprise after another, don't you?"

"You're one to talk." He sat beside her with his own coffee. "Photos, telegrams…"

"I simply thought you might like a keepsake from the event," she said glibly. "And since I'm in town, I thought we might catch up for an evening if you could fetch the time. I didn't see any need to call and alert the natives."

"Just your dirty secret, huh?"

"And I yours," she countered with a sip from her cup.

Victor took a drink from his as well. "Know what I think?"

Adrienne broke off pieces of a muffin to begin eating. "Can't you see I'm bursting at the seams with curiosity?"

"You're really here to check up on your sisters."

"I am here on necessary business concerning-"

"BS," he interjected sharply. "Last month it was St. Jude and before that it's Daddy invitin' you out on the boat. Why don't ya just admit that you want to see 'em?"

Adrienne waved a hand. "A couple chance meetings and you have my autobiography fully written, do you?"

Victor then brought up, "Cordy wants to see you, too, ya know."

This gave the woman momentary pause. "I don't see why. Last I checked, she ran off to live with Emmie."

"And you're important to her, too," Victor reasoned. "She's sixteen and dealin' with all these crazy things in her head. And speaking of Emma, she's havin' a baby. She may cover it up behind twenty-four hour class, but she's scared to the core. She needs you. And I don't mean your runnin' commentaries on the things she's done. She needs her big sister."

Adrienne glanced away. "Still harping on this I see." She stood up and walked towards the living area. "When will you comprehend that not every sibling dynamic is a reflection of you and your beloved brother? That we can't all be you?"

"Well, tough," Victor dismissed. He got up and moved up behind her. "Look, lady," he pointed towards the ceiling, "when the Big Guy Upstairs makes the call about the birth order, guess what? You're stuck. Ya may not like 'em, ya may want to strangle 'em half the time, but we're made to be here for the younger ones. Heck, I'm even willin' to wager that the big blonde dynamo needs you."

She could not help the half smile at the description of her brother. "He and my father will be in Westchester shortly."

Victor reached a hand out and left it on her shoulder. "Question is, where're you gonna be?"

Arms going across her chest, Adrienne took time to mull that over.

IIIIIII

Entire form casing over in stunning gold, Cordelia took advantage of the added strength to dish out a swarm of relentless snowballs. Cody leapt out from behind a tree, flinging back a few of his own. Looking around for a brief moment, Joey made sure no adults eyes stood nearby before sending a charge out that caused a plethora of the white moisture to burst around Cordelia.

The teenage girl laughed and played in the resulting particles.

A sharp throat clearing made Joey turn around on feet of jelly.

Erik stood above him with a certain resolve on his face. Soon, the disapproving look melted into a smirk and he produced a shovel load of snowballs powered by his own mutation.

Joey grinned and ran with the others to duck for cover.

A sufficiently bundled up Trav ran forward, only to receive shielding from his father.

Hank merely shook the colliding snow off his person. "I'm afraid you'll have to try a little harder, Erik."

"Daddy," Trav spoke upon noticing the man's big bare feet, "you'll catch pneumonia!" He used the tone that most adults did when speaking of the undoubtedly horrible illness.

Hank sent a smile down at him. "Worry not, little cub. Doctors rarely get sick."

"Here's a taste of your own medicine, doc." Logan charged seemingly out of nowhere at him.

The shorter man rushed his shoulders, making Hank tumble. However, the young scientist recovered and seized Logan by his slender waist with the aid of his feet and began spinning him about rapidly.

"Whoa!" Logan reacted. "Come on now!"

Becky laughed with Kiki from where the two stood under the tree house.

Hank let go of Logan abruptly and the latter flew off into a snow mound.

Logan raised slightly to point a finger at him. "Soon as I get up, I'm chuckin' one right on ya."

Hank snickered heartily. "Many an ailing child has done that before."

Trav then hopped onto him and Hank began twisting about with him while letting off playful growls.

Cordelia jumped several feet at a snow pileup coming down on her unexpectedly. She looked around until she caught Leon waving at her from a distance.

"Odd the number of random occurrences that take place in and around here," he stated.

"Oh you," the sparkling girl darted after him making chase, "you think you're so clever!"

"It is popular opinion," Leon claimed while attempting with great effort to outrun her.

At a shadow over her, Becky glanced up. "Oh Scott, be careful."

The shades adorned boy currently stood on the nose of the plane built onto the top of the tree house. "Just grabbing a bird's eye view, Rebecca." He hurled a snowball downward.

Alex waved off the impact and jabbed a finger up at his brother. "Scott Summers, break your neck and I break your butt."

"That will make two of us it seems." Erik stepped forward.

"No, I'm done," Scott assured, making his way down.

Alex snatched him up as soon as he made it to ground level and roughed up his hair. "Not cool, twerp. I'm not spending our first Christmas back together with you in a body cast."

Scott moved around to hop up and cling to Alex at the neck. "Like I'd let that happen."

Erik gave him a mild swat on his behind. "No more stunts, young Cyclops."

"Yes, sir," Scott complied.

Kiki came forward, tugging on his gloved hand. "Scottie," he looked down at her, "snowman."

"You want to build a snowman?" Scott figured. "Okay, come on."

Becky suggested, "Let's build a snowwoman, too."

Scott smiled. "And little snow kids."

Kiki clapped giddily. "Snow babies!"

Erik shook his head after them with a chuckle.

Alex let out a yelp when a sudden collision sent him to the ground.

"Hi," Leon acknowledged him nonchalantly.

"Real nice coordination, dude." Alex sat up. He looked around. "Where's Sean?"

Leon answered, "I believe he has a distraction of the female kind."

"Ah, figures." Alex then wondered, "Now where's Frankenstein?"

II

Sled moving along behind her, Jasmine headed off down the hall only to have a sudden bodily presence take hold of her hand.

"Come on," Frank urged. "They've already started without us."

"Precious," Trick called when they stopped outside his door, "can I see you for a wee moment?"

Jasmine shared a smile with Frank and he carried both their sleds down while she entered her father's room. "How are you feeling, Daddy?"

Trick had dressed for the day and sat on the edge of his bed. "It's still in me, but a bit more rest should do me well."

She lowered beside him. "Is this about last night? Are you mad?"

"No, darling," he assured her. "I mean, surein' I would be were it any other bloke but Frankie Tolbert. Were we still in the old country, I'd have had you two betrothed long ago."

She smiled softly. "I wouldn't mind it here."

"You two really are capable of great good together. I'll never get over what you did for the Mason girls."

"I called down there a few days ago," Jasmine brought up. "There mom is doing better and they got the gifts we all sent."

"That's really wonderful, Precious," Trick's arm went around her, "and while I'll be the first to say how mature you are in a lot of areas, there are some spots I don't think you should rush through. After all, being a kid still has its perks, doesn't it?"
"Yeah," Jasmine nodded. "I was only thinking that for me and Frank to be real, we had to kiss."

Trick told her, "The only requirements are how a lass and lad feel about each other. Even if you only so much as gaze from afar." Jasmine leaned against him comfortably. "Not to jump topics on you, Precious, but there is something else you and I need to discuss."

Jasmine looked up into his face at that.

II

When she picked up on her daughter's frequent shivering, Raven made her way over to the growing snow family.

"'Kay, baby gorge," the shape-shifter knelt to her level, "let's go play inside for a while, okay?"

Kiki's face immediately bunched up at that. "Noooo…"

Raven remained calm despite the building tears. "Don't you want to go see Auntie Emmie and your baby?"

"Go ahead, Kiki," Scott encouraged. "We'll play later, promise."

"'Kay," the toddler agreed with a sniff.

Raven picked her up and carried her in passed where Holly sat on the top step sipping from her coffee mug.

"Hey beautiful," Alex walked her way and lowered before her. "Why're you over here all by yourself?"

"I'm afraid the sportsman in me is not up to par today," she said. "But you go ahead. Enjoy your family."

When Alex went to kiss her, she offered him her cheek instead.

After giving the small peck, he wanted to know, "Are you okay? Did I do something?"

"Merely a lot on my mind. School will be here before we know it." She patted his arm. "You're fine, really."

"Okay," he accepted for now and returned to the others.

II

Emma practically dissolved into glee when she bit into the warm scone.

"I think my Christmas has officially been made," she declared.

Charles refilled her teacup. "I made them especially for you."

"Sugar, you didn't need to go through such trouble."

"Spoken while carrying my baby." Charles caressed one of her hands with both of his and looked into the blue eyes beside him. "I love you, Emma."

She smiled at him. "I know that. I love you, too."

"But I need you to always remember," he emphasized. "To always cancel out any slightest doubt. I need you and want you and I always will. Whatever's happened, whatever may happen."

"Charles," Emma gazed back at him closely, "are you sure nothing's wrong? Has Hank said something to you about the baby?"

"No, no." Charles raised her hands to kiss. "Nothing like that, love. Don't worry."

"Hi," Raven said enthusiastically, entering the kitchen with Kiki on her hip.

Emma brightened at the sight of the little girl. "Well hello, my dear." She reached out for her eagerly and Kiki went to her with the same enthusiasm.

Kiki reported, "Mommy says time to come in."

"Splendid." Charles tickled her cheek. "Then you can have high tea with us. It's of most importance to our side of the family you know." He got up to fix her a sippy cup of the chamomile but threw in a splash of fruit juice for her young taste buds. "Here we are."

"Thank you, Unca Charles." Kiki took a long drink of it. "Mmm!"

"Wow," Raven marveled. "We can't get half the kids to come near the stuff."

"We'll have a fine English lady on our hands before long," Charles commented.

"Tell me, angel," Emma played in Kiki's hair, "what is it you want on Christmas morning more than anything else?"

Kiki patted her stomach. "Baby."

The Xavier siblings laughed lightly and Emma said, "I think he'll still be a little too shy to say hello by then."

Kiki thought again and said, "Puppy."

Charles jumped on that immediately. "Oh wouldn't you like a prettier- not to mention cleaner- animal? What about a goldfish?"

"No," Kiki turned down. "Puppy dog, Unca Charles."

Raven decided to come to her brothers rescue by distracting her daughter with a strawberry jam covered scone.

II

"Dad," Cody started after the departing man, "where're you goin'?"

"Break's over, Cat-Cat," Logan turned back to look at him, "Time to get back to the old workshop."

"Aw!" Cody huffed.

"Hey," Logan said, "you want me or you want cool stuff to unwrap?" Cody clung to his leg. "Ah, what am I gonna do with ya?" He picked him up to toss and catch briefly. "Alright, stay down here." He put him down. "One peek and I poke your eyes out."

Cody gave an exaggerated roll of those eyes and went back to playing with Joey. "I can't wait! My dad builds such amazing stuff for Christmas."

Trav came over. "Why does he need to do that when Santa Claus brings everything?"

Cody looked at him flatly. "Don't tell me you believe that old con."

Trav looked confused. "Huh?"

"Trav, there is no Santa Claus," Cody announced. "My dad told me. That's just a fib rich folk tell to make their ungrateful kids be good."

"What?" Trav turned to Joey. "Is that true?"

"Well," Joey played with his thumbs, "I sort of pretended to believe last year, but I don't think... I'm not so sure."

"Becca!" Trav called over in urgency.

The girl ran over with Scott in tow. "What's wrong, Trav?"

"You'll know. Is there really a Santa Claus?"

"Sure," she said. "He's at the mall."

"Come off it, Becky," said Cody. "He means the real thing. The fat guy who flies around from house to house every year."

"Well, some people think he's real and other people don't," Becky tried to explain diplomatically. "I don't think he is, but that's only because I read grownups' minds when I was younger."

"I know he isn't," Scott put forth.

"How do you know?" Trav asked.

"Because his rules don't make sense," Scott insisted. "At my old school I knew plenty of rotten kids who should have gotten piles of coal for Christmas instead of brand new toys."

"I don't like that rule, anyway," said Becky. "If it were up to me, all kids would get toys."

"What are you five plotting, hm?" Erik approached with Hank and Alex.

"Is there a Santa Claus?" Trav threw out to the gathering of adults.

Hank looked to Erik, who said, "No. I'm staying far away from this one."

A little ways over, Cordelia and Leon continued playing in the snow when the girl felt an arm coil around her waist and the other cover her eyes.

"Charles?" she shrieked. "Is that you?"

"You're off by a few inches, Cor."

When he let her go, Cordelia turned around and looked into the face of her brother. "Chris."

He smiled and hoisted her up into a hug. "Good to see you, baby sis."

Cordelia hugged him back then glanced beyond at the older Frost man. "Daddy!" She got down and ran for him.

Winston caught her in a tight hold. "Oh there she is."

Joey ran forward, only to be snatched up by Chris.

"Little Joey," the man squeezed him strongly, "it's good to see you." He pulled back a moment to look into the confused face. "I can't get over it. Every time we meet again you've sprouted up."

"Uh, hi? You look… the same. Except happy."

Chris laughed as he placed him down. "And why shouldn't I be?"

Joey did not answer that as he dove for Winston next. "Grandpa!"

"Little Charles?" Winston picked him up. "For a moment I thought I happened upon a stray elf."

"Oh Grandpa," the boy laughed. "Chris said I was bigger."

"A grandfather is allowed a little denial," the older man claimed.

As the others approached, Trav shot ahead of them and demanded, "Who are you? Why are you here?"

Hank bent to ruffle the child's hair profusely. "This inquisitive future security guard is mine and Raven's new son, Travis. Our little girl is just inside."

Winston took notice of Leon. "Seems there are quite a few new additions to be had."

"This is Leon Osaka, Daddy," Cordelia introduced. "He's Alex's friend from school."

Leon bowed his head at the two men. "Hello."

"We should take this inside," Hank proposed.

Erik stepped forward and gathered their luggage by any metallic pieces to be found on the bags and said, "Welcome back to our home."

Once inside, Cordelia and Joey led the men into the kitchen.

Emma got to her feet. "Chris, Father, you're early."

Winston enveloped her in an embrace. "We didn't want to waste a moment."

"Little sis." Chris moved over to her as well.

Initially taken aback by her brother's bright countenance, Emma greeted him with a hug and a kiss on the cheek. "How have you been? Is everything alright in Boston?"

"Never better," Chris said then promptly turned to his sister's beau. "Charles."

"Chris." Charles started to extend a hand then received a surprise when Chris used it to pull him into a hearty hug. "Well," Smiling, Charles patted his back, "it's wonderful to see you, too, old boy."

"I can't thank you enough for having us," Chris said.

Raven sent a look Emma's way, who in turn searched her father's face for answers. Winston shrugged one shoulder and gave off a wave of his hand.

IIIIIII

After he had the fifth box carefully loaded onto the back of the Howletts' truck, Sean took a moment to catch a breath or several if it could be allowed.

"I'm sorry about this," Maya said, looking away from her supply list. "I know it's taking forever and there are about a hundred things you'd rather be doing."
"Yeah," Sean said, going around to her, "but they all involve hanging out with you so we're all good." Maya smiled and he looked to their collection. "I think this is going to top Thanksgiving."

Maya said forlornly, "It seems like the homeless rate grows as it gets colder."

"Well, we still have a few more neighbors to hit up," Sean reminded her. "The Bryants have a whole other case for us."

"Not to mention how much the Professor, Emma, and everyone around here contributed." Maya gripped her birthday necklace.

Recognizing the look, Sean asked, "What is it?"

She flapped her arms. "I was just thinking about Emma. I've seen time and time again all the good she's willing to do for people and it's made me feel awful about how distant I feel from her. Like I'm condemning her baby."

Sean assured, "She knows that's not what you're doing. Look, I'm not ready to throw a parade over how it happened, either, but the point is it's happening. And I can't wait."

"Neither can I." She stepped up to get closer on him. "I'm so happy you're here to help me work through all of this."

"Nothing you wouldn't do for me," he reminded. "I'm going to go take my car to pick up the rest."

Maya smiled after her and resumed going over her list.

IIIIIII

"Mommy?" Trav petitioned as she helped him into warmer clothes from his outdoor play. "Can I sleep over with Joey tomorrow for Christmas Eve?"

Kiki rolled over against Raven's hip and chimed in, "I wanna stay with Becca."

Done with Trav's shirt, Raven asked, "Did they invite you?"

"Yes," the siblings replied in chorus.

"And are you actually going to sleep?" She could only smirk at their twin shifty eyed expressions. "Have fun."

Hank came into the room. "Hey." He joined them on the bed and Kiki crawled over into his lap. "Look what was in the mail."

Raven studied the front of the manila envelope's front. "From your mom."

Trav read the larger writing out loud. "The McCoy Fam-i-ly." He grinned. "That's us."

Hank looked to his son fondly. "Yes, it is." He held the envelope out. "Why don't you get it open for us?"

Finding the instructions to be of utmost importance, Trav carefully ripped apart the flap and reached a hand inside the slit. He retrieved a wide card with a picture of multicolored cartoon children holding hands around a tall Christmas tree on it.

"What's it say, Mommy?" Trav asked, having trouble with the cursive lettering within.

Raven took it from him to recite to the rest of them. "Dear Hank and Raven, I know how very difficult this year has been. Despite it all, I hope you're having a marvelous holiday season. My thoughts go to you every day. Take care of yourselves and extra care of Travis and little Kyra. Love, Mom."

"Look," Trav took out a leaflet from the envelope next and pointed out the picture at the very top, "it's Daddy's daddy."

Hank looked it over when Trav handed it to him. "Father's obituary."

"Hm," Raven hummed in puzzlement, "I wonder what took it so long to get here."

"She told me she was having this one specialty print from the others." After reading through it briefly, Hank understood why. "Norton McCoy leaves behind wife Edna McCoy, son Henry McCoy, daughter-in-law Raven McCoy, grandson Travis McCoy, and granddaughter Kyra McCoy."

An immediate stretch of quiet filled the room. Raven reached for one of Hank's hands and Kyra leaned over hugging his arm.

Trav requested, "Can I see it again, Daddy?"

Hank gave it back over to him.

Kiki propped up to snuggle under Hank's chin. "You 'kay, Daddy?"

"Of course I am, Baby Bear." Hank kissed the top of her head.

Raven brought up, "I think it's naptime."

"Not for me," Trav stated.

"Can you keep your sister company for a bit?" Hank asked of him.

"O-kay, Dad." Trav fell back against a pillow.

Hank laid Kiki down beside him.

Joining hands, he and Raven moved over to the sitting area.

"So," Raven sat in his lap after positioning the card on their mantle, "guess which two are staying over with Becky and Joey tomorrow night?"

"Really?" Hank gazed over at their children. "My, the bed's going to feel completely empty without them. It'll be hard to sleep."

Raven's hand found its way into his dark hair. "Guess we'll have to find something else to do all night…"

Catching her meaning, Hank's pensive countenance split into a full on grin.

IIIIIII

Boot covered feet moving along side by side, the tall blonde and curvy redhead stopped just outside the front entrance of the grand mansion.

Adrienne remarked, "I suppose the welcoming committee has the day off."

Victor pointed out, "Didn't exactly matter to you over Thanksgivin'."

"Do you know how long it's been since we all spent a Christmas together?" she mentioned. She glanced up at his chuckle. "What?"

"I was just thinkin'," he calmed his laughter, "it'd be hilarious if you had another brother runnin' around named Jack."

"Droll," Adrienne responded flatly.

The door burst open then revealing an eager Cody on the other side. "Hi!"

"Hey, Mite," Victor acknowledged his sudden presence.

"Ah, yes. Your young nephew," Adrienne recognized.

"Cody," he reintroduced himself then took hold of both their hands. "They're in the living room." He started tugging the adult pair along. "This way, follow me."

Victor managed to kick the door shut as the mini tour guide lead them.

"Oh Joey," Cody sing-songed, entering in between the two, "look, my Uncle Vic's home. And he brought your Aunt Adrienne. Isn't that great?"

Joey looked up from where he sat with Winston and Cordelia on one sofa. "…Yeah."

"Adrienne." Scepter in one hand, Winston got to his feet.

Chris approached her first. "Big sis," he offered her a strong hug then took her by the hand to give her a brief spin, "you're looking sharp."

"Little brother. You're looking," Adrienne stared into his face, "peacefully sober."

He put his fists to his hips with a toothy smile. "Most smashing on me, isn't it?"

Winston came over to kiss her cheek. "I was hoping you would stop by at some point."

"Daddy," she smiled at him then noticed Cordelia coming her way with arms folded.

"Are you really here for Christmas?" the teenager wanted to know.

Adrienne touched her upper arms. "I believe I owe you one or more."

Cordelia's lips upturned and they exchanged a hug.

Charles patted Emma's wrist as the blonde stood. "I think I owe more than that."

Winston threw his head back in a charged guffaw. "Excellent. The entire family together."

Charles added, "As it should be."

Winston then looked back and forth between Victor and Adrienne. "Did you two happen to meet up outside?"

Adrienne explained, "Mr. Creed was kind enough to offer me a lift."

"Ah," Winston leaned forward on his scepter, clear intrigue on his face, "I see."

Cody sat down beside Joey on the couch, sharing a secretive glance with his friend.

IIIIIII

Opening the lid to her princess themed chest, Becky sorted through the snack horde within.

"This is going to be great." She looked around at the other three gathered in her room. "All of us up on Christmas Eve 'waiting on Santa'."

"I'll say," Scott seconded. "I don't think I've ever done anything like this."

"I have," Frank said, "but that's back when me and my brothers were way younger. Hey, Jas?" He turned to her. "Remember what your granddad used to always say? How Santa only goes to the suburbs and Jesus visits city kids?" He frowned a little at her continued silence. "What's wrong?"

"Hm?" She turned away from the window. "Oh yeah, I remember. Sorry."

"Why are you so quiet?" Becky wondered.

Jasmine shrugged with a small smile. "Can't stop thinking about tomorrow. Dinner with my mom's side. She's bringing Mackenzie."

Frank mentioned, "I thought you were good with your sister now."

"Oh I am," she said. "I guess I still have to get used to it."

"Tell me about it." Scott laid out across the edge of Becky's bed. "I still don't believe it. Alex is here. I'm here. Forget what's under the wrapping paper. That's the greatest gift."

Becky smiled at him. "I'm so glad you're living here, Scott."

Light redness came to his cheeks. "Thanks, Rebecca."

The curly haired girl folded her hands together. "I hope this is a great Christmas for Auntie Em. Papa and Uncle Charles are just terrific, but having her here has been incredible."

"I know." Scott looked over at Frank. "That reminds me. Is your mom coming over?"

"She's bringing casseroles later on for Christmas dinner," the other boy answered. "Though to be honest, I'm pretty sure that's because Sean begged them out of her."

IIIIIII

With a throaty moan, Logan walked into the suite and promptly collapsed stomach up on the bed.

Kayla looked away from her mannequin. "All done helping Maya?"

He claimed, "I've got cans comin' out of my can." She laughed and Logan looked to see what she was working on. "That for her?"

"Yes." Kayla fussed with one sleeve. "Finally finished with the younger girls."

Logan gazed towards the ceiling again. "Smiley really is a one of a kind kid. I know it ain't easy with her mother constantly workin'. Most kids react to that sort of thing by goin' out here and doin' God only knows. But not her."

"She certainly is something special," Kayla concurred. "By the way, how far along are you with your own wood work?"

"At this rate I'll be done by Christmas." He then tacked on, "Of 1988."

Kayla paused a moment to sit near him. "I see the eldest Frost sister has come to join in the holiday cheer."

"Yeah, I saw her downstairs. With Vic."

"All the clairvoyance in the world wouldn't have enabled me to see that one coming."

Logan commented, "Dippin' cookies in buttermilk."

"I thought you wanted to see him out there again," Kayla reasoned. "We both do."

"I meant with somebody softer," he said. "Carin', kind, able to make just about the whole world feel welcomed."

"You mean like…" Kayla danced a pair of fingers up and down his chest. "Your sister-in-law?"

Logan quieted before sitting up. "I just don't appreciate how this dame can look so much like her and not come close to actin' the part."

Kayla suggested, "Do you think maybe Victor wants that distance? To avoid the constant reminder from his past."

"Baby," Logan looked at her, "a man can live forever and never forget a thing like that." She glided a hand down his cheek and he kissed the fingers when they came close enough. "I need to get back to work."

Kayla watched him leave out before placing attention back on the unfinished dress.

IIIIIII

Positioned before his dresser, Trick shuffled through his collection of cuff links.

"One so ill has no business on his feet."

At the voice, Trick looked back and smiled at who stood in his doorway.

"Untouchable," he raised the medallion from its bust on the dresser, "remember?"

"Yes, I do." Winston walked in closer. "But I believe that applies to the outside-in. Not the other way around."

Trick told him, "It's good to see you."

Winston regarded him up and down. "How are things, Patrick?"

The younger man lowered into a nearby chair. "Winston, have you ever felt yourself yanked about in all directions?"

Winston chuckled lowly. "A better question is how many times. Everything from should I bother with fanciful dreams of university or try to survive in the blue collar world to which is better to feed a baby, peas or carrots?"

Trick said, "I always went ahead and mushed those two together."

"Patrick?" Winston nudged on.

He sighed. "People think they have me figured out. Big time singer, married a woman of color until the divorce everyone anticipated, I acknowledge my little girl with complete pride, so on and so on. It's assumed I'm for anything and everything. But I'm not. I have beliefs and principles. A faith I take in with my whole heart. This power I have," he lifted his hands, "it has to be in me for a purpose."

"Undoubtedly," Winston agreed.

"Yet despite my family, friends, and success… why am I left feeling so unfulfilled?"

"Dismiss this as mere musings from an old man if you will," Winston started, "but perhaps it's time to acknowledge what you want but have yet to voice. I told you before that I've carried out all of my original goals. I'm afraid there's one that I'll never accomplish now."

Trick eyed him closely. "What?"

He replied, "Growing old with my wife."

IIIIIII

"I didn't really have fierce competition during the fall," Cordelia recounted. "Things are supposed to intensify more when I resume in January. I just have to work off the inevitable holiday pounds."

"Not too much," Charles tacked on meaningfully.

Chris chuckled a bit. "She sounds exactly like you during those God forsaken cheerleader try-outs, Dri."

Adrienne mentioned, "This from the one who used to wax his legs out of the belief that it would make you lighter for track and field."

He huffed at her. "It worked for the swim team."

Adrienne noticed Emma carrying the tea service away. She excused herself and stood to follow after her.

"Let me have that," the redhead offered.

"It's no trouble," Emma told her, going into the kitchen.

Adrienne toyed with a bracelet on her wrist then asked, "How are you feeling of late? How is the baby?"

"Continued perfectly healthy." Emma turned from the dishwasher to face her. "Sorry to disappoint you."

Her sister gaped at her. "Is that honestly your belief? That I spend my nights wishing miscarriage upon you? Believe it or not, Em, I'm not that deranged."

"Just immature enough to plant disgusting photos for my boyfriend to uncover."

"Do you think it was easy to sit there and watch Father hand over our family's welfare to you? You vanish for years, reappear solely because of Mother's death, and then receive a slaughtered calf for it?"

"I never asked for it, Adrienne," Emma emphasized. "That was his decision, not mine."

"But leaving was your decision," Adrienne countered.

"Don't act as if you weren't elated," Emma threw out.

Adrienne gave off a shake of your head. "And you dare call yourself a telepath."

Cordelia bouncing in prevented Emma from responding. "Hey." She went over to Adrienne. "Are you staying to eat?"

Adrienne looked at her and sighed. "I'm afraid I have a dinner meeting tonight."

Cordelia bobbed her head slightly. "Oh."

Chris popped his head in and declared, "Razzle!" before dispensing water at all of them from a squirt gun.

Three winded shrieks resulted along with a unison shout of, "Christian!"

"Ow, ow!" he reacted to them slapping at his person.

"Do I dare ask the meaning of this?" their father raised, venturing in.

Chris pointed to the female Frosts. "They ganged up on me."

Winston took the squirter from him. "Honestly, Christian. Haven't you anything better to do than abuse children's toys?"

"I think our definitions of better differ greatly, Daddy." Chris grabbed hold of Adrienne around the waist when she started to walk by. "Oh come now, Dri. It's not fun at all until one of you tries pouring sand down my mouth."

"Keep it up and my next move will affect your lower region," she threatened.

Chris let her go. "That was a harsh blow, big sis."

"The first and second of a great line," Winston sighed, resulting in a giggle from Cordy and headshake from Emma.

"I have to leave or I'll be late," Adrienne told them.

"Now hold on a minute," said Chris. "We've hardly caught up at all. What's say we meet for lunch tomorrow?" He looked at Emma. "And bring Charles and Joey along."

Winston nodded approvingly. "Yes, that's a fine idea."

Adrienne replied, "Noon works for me."

Emma said, "It shouldn't be a problem."

"Great!" Cordelia grinned.

After Adrienne could finally take her leave, she had not stepped outside for two seconds before the familiar figure leapt down at her.

"I take it none of ya came to blows in there."

"Only toward Chris," she answered. "Which is always a delight. I believe the first good sign came when you failed to confiscate my driver's license."

Victor shrugged. "Think I got enough pics to keep me satisfied… for a while."

She gave off a slight smile, the brisk night air loosening her up do. "Is it safe to say you're here to…?"

The long haired man held up his keys and they started for the garage.

IIIIIII

As soon as dinner ended that evening, Joey approached Charles.

"Daddy, can I go visit Xander?"

The Professor looked at him doubtfully. "It's awfully cold out there now, son."

Chris stepped over. "If it's alright, I'll take him out. I don't believe I got the chance to see this marvelous barn on our last visit. I'll see to it we don't stay out for very long."

Charles looked to Emma for her take.

She said to her brother, "That's fine, Chris."

Chris smiled at Joey. "Let's see what that horse of yours is up to."

The clearly surprised child followed him to the front to put on their winter gear before they left out.

Once they reached the inside of the barn, Joey went straight to the brown creature and nuzzled their heads together. "Hey, Xander. Ready for Christmas?"

Chris ran a hand along the thick blanket that covered the animals. "I've always loved horses, too. Very nearly got kicked by one a time or two."

Joey laughed softly at the recollection. "Grandpa told us about that one." He then wondered something. "How come you like us now? Me and Dad?"

Chris responded, "What reason in the world have I not to like you?"

"You weren't nice to us before," Joey reminded.

The man let off a short sigh. "There's a good- alright, halfway decent- reason for that. You see, Joey," he squatted to his level, "I suffer from a rare condition of combined bullheadedness and self-absorption."

Joey stared at him, obviously perplexed. "Why do grownups always have to use all those words?"

"Makes us feel smart," Chris answered plainly. "What it means, though, is that for a long time I've only cared about myself and barely that at times. Emma and I were always very close as kids and, honestly, I just wasn't ready to accept that she had a wonderful new life that did not include me. I suppose you could say I was jealous."

Joey said, "I don't know how anybody could ever be jealous of me."

"I can't speak for others but I have every reason to be," Chris put forth. "You're adored by your father as well as my father; not to mention every woman in this family. I believe you might even be, dare I say, growing on Adrienne." He smiled at the boy's laughter. "Joey, I've never had the chance to be an uncle before. But I do want to try now. If you'll have me that is."

Joey hummed in thought. "Will you make me eat my vegetables?"

Chris answered, "Only when your parents are present."

"Will you sneak sweets for me and the other kids?"

"Only when your parents aren't present."

Joey then asked, "Can I color your hair with my paint set?"

Chris said, "In the words of your mother, don't touch my hair."

"I like that better than what Daddy told me. He said if I dared my bum would be sore for a month."

IIIIIII

Erik's den- or rather Mag Cave- had a double edge to it. On the one side, it carried the menacing quality necessary to ward off encroachers. However, it still possessed a comforting relief felt only by those who knew better of its main inhabitant.

Over the desk, Alex stood beside the man's chair, discussing upcoming training strategies as if they would all need to pick up arms come dawn. Situated on the sofa, Leon held a notebook but wrote nothing of immense significance into it; nothing that made sense beyond his own psyche, anyway. His gaze continuously drifted over to the fireplace where his eyes focused in on the blazing sparks of red and yellow.

Erik honed in on the fixed expression. "I can put it out." Leon's brown orbs landed on the metal wielder. "If it's too warm for you."

"Oh," the young man shook his head, "no, sir. I'm fine."

"Speaking of fire," Alex grinned wickedly as Frank came in, "how it goin', hot lips?"

"Alex." Erik spoke his name in a distinct tone that decreased the blonde's haughtiness exponentially.

Leon could not help watching his friend in intrigue. Though he learned more about the ways of the X-Men with each new day, he still found it so strange to hear Alex "Sit Down and Study" Summers be at all reprimanded by his father.

Frank waved him off with, "Shove it, Alex. Not like we did anything."

"Not that big a deal," Alex said with a shrug. "I first lip locked when I was fourteen."

Erik narrowed eyes at him. "Four-teen?"

"Oh come on, Erik," Alex batted at the man's shoulder playfully, "I'll bet you were even younger."

"I suggest you rethink that wager."

"What?" all three younger males reacted.

"It was a privilege to so much as speak to a girl when I was a boy in Poland," Erik informed. "Besides that, I was far from the embodiment of handsome that you boychicks are. And while we're on this particular subject," he got up and walked toward Leon, "should I be concerned about any forward maidens stealing you away?" His fingers found a place in the silky locks.

Leon absorbed the relaxation resulting for the gentle tugs at his hair. "Actually, sir, I still need to pencil in a date for non-verbal lip activity."

Though he expected the man to gape at him strangely, Erik instead said, "It isn't a race. Take your time."

Not having whatsoever predicted the far-from-the-usual response, Leon looked up at him with an appreciative smile.

IIIIIII

Despite her normal reservations against the dreadful tea cookie, Emma started in on a second of the raspberry sweets. A highly tuned whistle caused her to gaze over to the opening, where Chris seemed to glide right in.

"You'll have to excuse me if Joey is difficult to awaken in the morning," he went around the island to her, "We just finished swapping horse stories."

Emma pressed a hand against the countertop and stared at him. "I'm roughly five seconds away from probing your mind of whatever entity has clearly taken over your body."

"What?" he reacted with a breathy chuckle. "Ah, you women- never without a complaint." He held his arms out in innocence. "Have I not been on my best behavior?"
"You've been an absolute prince," Emma stated. "Which is what's so startling. Now tell me," she propped a hand up on one hip, "why are you suddenly resident and landlord of Cloud Nine?"

Chris tweaked her nose and teased, "You'll just have to wait and find out, won't you?"

She crossed her arms and looked at him knowingly. "Will I?"

"Uh uh now." He wagged a disapproving finger. "No peeking, little sis," he snagged a cookie from her package, "Santa is watching after all." He started to jog out, nearly bumping into Holly as he did so. "Ah, Miss Hughes." He lowered in a bow to her.

She returned the gesture by curtsying with her robe. "Kind Mr. Frost." He left out while she continued on for the refrigerator. "I must say, your brother is a charmer."

"Then he has much in common with yours," said Emma. She watched her remove the strawberries from the refrigerator. "After hours munchies crying out to you as well?"

Holly placed the clear container of red berries on top the counter. "At least pregnancy excuses yours."

Emma took note of the unusual lack of sparkle in the younger woman's eyes. "Holly? Is something the matter?"

"I've been thinking about the little talk I had with Jas the other night," Holly recollected. "I followed standard adult protocol. Advise her to go one way while I continuously follow the opposite path."

"We all do that," Emma raised.

"But it's caused me to re-evaluate so many choices I've made. I constantly full around under the fascia that I'm merely out to enjoy youthful pleasure, but I know the truth. I'm really enjoying sticking it to my ma and da."

Emma said in only half-jest, "The choir would like to hear further preaching."

Holly laughed softly at that then grew serious again. "You spend years saying how much your parents and their ways are not going to influence the person you become… until you realize they're your primary motivation."

"You devote so much time to distancing yourself from them," Emma spoke, "then the inevitable arrives when you wonder if you even like who you've become as a result."

Holly asked her, "How have you and your father found common ground?"

Emma replied, "We both needed to change. Cease fire. We still have a ways to go but at the very least we understand that we're not the other's nemesis or problem."

Holly became silent then said, "Perhaps I need to focus on changing a few things of my own."

IIIIIII

"Can I see?"

Winston turned away from the portfolio to respond to the small one in pajamas who had just entered. "You should be taking in an excellent view of the inside of your eyelids, young man."

Joey came over to the desk. "I can't sleep much lately. I keep being excited."

Winston helped him up to sit on one of his thighs. "About Christmas approaching I take it."

"And The Sword in the Stone," Joey said. "It comes out the same day you know."

"Yes," Winston nodded with a bit of a wry smile, "you may have mentioned that two or three dozen times in passing. Which reminds me," he shuffled through the sketches until he landed on one of a specially designed sword, "what do you think?"

"It's amazing, Grandpa," Joey responded, running a finger over the outline of the picture. "I'd sure like to carry that."

Winston let off a chuckle and coiled arms around him. "Why would a boy with so much extraordinary power yearn for a simple sword?"

"But my powers can be really dangerous."

"So can this." Winston tapped the drawing. "Don't you remember a lesson Arthur himself learned?" Joey arched his head back to look at him. "It isn't about the sword but the one who wields it."

The child smiled and asserted, "You'd make a great Merlin, Grandpa."

"Yes," Winston reclined in the chair with him comfortably, "we are about the same age."

IIIIIII

Charles stepped into the living and saw Erik standing before the tall illuminated tree.

The telepath spoke with, "I thought you'd be conducting rounds about now."

"I'll be up there in a moment," Erik assured him. "I see the miracles associated with this holiday have already begun."

"How do you mean?" Charles went to position beside him.

Erik looked at him with a faint smirk. "Chris Frost skipped straight over civil to offer agreeable a whole new meaning."

"Yes. Dash it all, though." Charles tossed a fist of faux disappointment. "Now you can't give him that sound thrashing you planned on."

Erik simply shrugged. "There's always New Year's."

"Brother?" Charles' tone turned partly hesitant. "May I ask you something without you using the many, many hooks present on this tree to pierce me in most uncomfortable regions?"

"You give me these ideas and then you don't allow me to act them out…" Erik moved so that they stood as eye to eye as they could. "What's on your mind, Lab Rat?"

"Is it possible Alex is not the only reason you've chosen to cut off Steve Rogers this way?"

The older headmaster folded his arms and remained with an even expression. "What are you getting at, Charles?"

"Perhaps," the Professor went on, "you're using this incident as more of an excuse not to have to face Steve. More specifically, the part of your past he personally witnessed. You said that for the longest time you'd convinced yourself that you imagined him entirely." Charles' expression softened. "Maybe that's what you wanted to believe."

Erik pressed, "And why, do tell, would I have wanted that?"

"It's different with the brothers Howlett-Creed. Though they are our senior, they do not step out of bounds. Now, Erik," Charles' connected with his shoulder soothingly, "you're my elder brother and I value and respect you for it. However, after what Shaw put you through… it feels like you can't trust another older man again. Doesn't it?"

Remaining in place for a moment, Erik walked off from him. He bent over the arm of the nearest couch and stayed that way for several mute seconds.

Charles petitioned, "Erik? I'm sorry if I've upset you."

"Don't," Erik's tone started off as cold then immediately changed, "apologize." He glanced back at him. "Not for being right."

Charles came up behind him, leaving a soothing hand on his back.

IIIIIII

At noon the following day, the five Frosts and two Xaviers met up at a small restaurant amongst the Westchester shopping strip. As the largest party inside the establishment, they took up a large circular table not too far from a window.

The moment they finished ordering, Emma fixed her gaze on her brother. "Well, here we are."

"Yes, indeed," Chris responded demurely, taking a sip from his water glass.

Adrienne said in standard blunt fashion, "If you have something to say, out with it. While we're young, please."

"In that case," he smirked, "I'm afraid it's already too late for you, Dri."

While Adrienne flicked at him with a bread stick, Cordelia urged, "Chris, come on."

"Christian, stop torturing your sisters and speak for Heaven's sake," Winston piped up.

"I think they want to know why you're nice now, too, Uncle Chris," Joey aided.

Sending a quick smile to the little boy, Chris began, "Alright. After Thanksgiving, I learned from a former classmate of mine that a major information technology firm was opening up a branch in Boston. So on a bit of a whim, I submitted my resume. I'd nearly forgotten about it entirely until I received a call last week requesting an interview. So I went in, met with their hiring manager, surely bombed it up, and left. Then the phone rang again the very next day." His smile increased. "They offered me an entry level position."

As the jaws of his immediate family practically collided with the table, Charles leapt straight to his feet. "Congratulations tenfold, Chris," he stuck out a hand, "this is absolutely marvelous."

Chris got up as well and shared a hearty shake with him. "Thank you, Charles. I'm still lightheaded myself."

"How is this possible?" Adrienne wondered incredulously. "Chris, you didn't even complete your degree."

"That's the part that baffled me," Chris concurred. "However, with the number of credits I've already completed in addition to my internship experience from Harvard, they're going to help me finish through their private night school."

"Oh Chris," with partly moistened eyes, Emma hurried up to hug him around the neck, "I couldn't be happier for you."

"Em," he breathed, lifting her a bit. He put her down and turned to Adrienne. "Well, big sis?"

"Understand that this will be a real workplace," Adrienne took out her compact mirror to examine her makeup status, "Show up properly attired or refrain from acknowledging me as your sister."

"Ah, exactly like our school days." With clear trepidation, Chris' gaze fell on Winston. "Alright, Daddy. Let's hear it." The man remained silently, only staring back at him. "Let me venture a wild guess. You're calculating how long I can go before I completely screw this up, am I right? Two weeks- no, that's much too generous- two days? The first lunch hour?"

Scepter gripped, Winston stood straight up. "I was only thinking how much I'm going to dread battling crazed last minute shoppers."

Completely baffled, Chris came back with a plain, "What?"

Winston then clarified, "If you're starting a new job, you're going to need a decent briefcase."

Chris blinked then reached to bashfully rub the back of his neck. "Yes, I suppose that's true."

Though so much remained unspoken, Charles could not help looking joyfully back and forth between them.

Cordelia's attention went to the waitresses as she wondered how much longer the food would take.

IIIIIII

"What do you mean who is this?" Receiver up against his ear, Sean leaned back against the side of the refrigerator. "I should've sent you a knuckle sandwich in the mail instead of those cool baseball cards. It's your big brother, pipsqueak."

"Oh, my brother," Tom pretended to realize. "You sounded smart at first so it was too hard to tell."

"Haha," Sean responded dryly. "You're pretty cocky for a guy not standing right in front of me."

"… I wish I was standing right in front of you."

Sean whispered into the mouth piece, "Me, too, pal."

"Some of the younger kids have already knocked the tree down twice running around," Tom told him. "You should've heard Mom's shriek."

"Is that what that was?" Sean carried the smile straight through his voice. "Here I thought it was a siren."

"So, how's your…?" Tom started to make loud smooching noises.

"Don't kiss me, you cootie carrier."

"I meant your girrrrrlfriend."

"My girrrrlfriend," Sean returned, "is as great as ever. We're finally catching a break. I performed in a benefit for kids, we worked on the food drive…"

"Sean," Tom's voice turned somber, "you're going to visit soon, right?"

Calming down the building lump in his throat, Sean promised, "I'm going to try, Tom-boy. As soon as I possibly can."

IIIIIII

With the overhead speakers broadcasting Bing Crosby musical stylings, a hand in hand Cordelia and Joey proceeded through the congested shopping strip. Hordes of bustling buyers surrounded them, most with armloads of brightly wrapped packages that exceeded the heights of the ones carrying them. Decorations covered every square inch of the various shops.

Tugging on Cordelia, Joey pointed out the white with gold trimmed carriage being pulled along by a pair of cream colored horses. Cordelia in turn gestured towards a man walking his dog, both with red stocking caps attached to their heads. They laughed at the sight then moved onward.

When the music switched over to a high key rendition of Joy to the World, Joey jumped onto a bench and performed something of a strut down it. Cordelia danced alongside him from street level. At the end of the bench, she held her arms wide open and Joey leapt right at her. She spun with him as fast as she could but had to quickly grab hold of a pole before an unseen bit of ice could cause them both to take a tumble. Once steady, they looked at each other for a short beat and dissolved into sniggers.

Catching a whiff of the air, Joey said, "Hey, something smells good."

"I see Cody's been giving you nose lessons." Cordelia spotted a small bakery to stores down. "Ooh, come on."

Taking hands again, they ran forward but managed to calm their enthusiasm to politely step inside the shop.

"That is beautiful." Joey brought them over to where a three story gingerbread fortress stood out at the very center of the space. "I wish Becky was here to see it."

"So do I," Cordelia concurred. "We must bring the others by here sometime tomorrow."

"Have you ever tried Dutch chocolate?" The young mutants looked to the counter at the apron adorned man behind it.

Joey thought then said, "I don't think so," while Cordelia replied, "I don't believe I have."

"Then prepare to be amazed." The baker produced a napkin with two brown squares on top of it.

They came over with a twin, "Thank you," as they accepted the offering.

"Mmmm!" Joey moaned in bliss the moment it touched his tongue.

"Sensational," Cordelia breathed. "Thanks again, sir."

With a wink, the man raised one hand. "Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas," they returned before taking their leave.

The moment they got back outside, the five adult members of their party came their way.

"Should have known," Winston spoke in good humor. "Entertaining the sweet tooth."

"Cordy, what happened?" Emma asked her. "We thought you were going to the bathroom."

Joey said, "We're sorry, Mum. We just wanted to see—"

"You didn't have to end your conversation on account of us," Cordelia cut in. "We're perfectly capable of entertaining ourselves while you all discuss the ever fascinating world of enormous corporations."

Charles regarded her with a certain gaze and said, "Cordy, you only needed to say something if you felt excluded."

"Dear, haven't we discussed this?" Winston reminded her. "I told you I wanted you to speak up if something's bothering you."

"You are not the problem, Daddy." Cordelia's piercing blue eyes aimed in the direction of her two oldest siblings.

A sincerely baffled Chris gestured at himself. "Us? But- but I don't understand. I thought we were all having a fine time."

"Maybe you were," Cordelia said matter-of-factly.

Adrienne gave off an eye roll. "Really, Cordelia. Must you create a scene every time we get together?"

Cordelia shot her a fierce glare. "You would not even be here if Victor hadn't caught your eye." She looked to Chris. "And you! Carrying on this all-smiles façade. Making as if you've seen some kind of metaphorical light. You only came here to brag about your sudden success."

"That isn't true," Chris claimed strongly. "I had good news and I wanted to share it. With all of you. And there is no façade here. I am happy, Cordy."

"Because of your new job! It has nothing to do with me. It never has anything to do with me." The girl's face contorted with wretchedness. "Why has it never had anything to do with me? Why can't I ever make anyone happy?"

"Baby." Emma reached for her only for the teenager to recoil from her grasp.

Joey's arms wound around her in an instant. "You make me happy, Cordy. You always make me happy."

"And me," Charles seconded with ferocity in his tone. "You know how much you mean to me."

"Yes, I do," Cordelia failed to argue. "But Charles, you're the one who did it for Em, not me."

Winston went up, bringing his youngest in near to his front. "You mustn't let yourself be upset." He rubbed at her hair through his gloves and her snow cap. "Calm down now, my girl."

Arms falling for across her chest and to her sides, Adrienne approached. "I will admit that Victor Creed gave me the necessary prod. But he is not the reason I flew out here. Work is not the reason I flew out here. I came to…" She practically hissed as she attempted to find the right words. "I wanted to make sure you…" Her gaze landed on their other siblings as well. "That none of you- managed to make deliriously moronic choices that would undoubtedly result in your senseless ends."

"What I believe she's trying to say," Charles tactfully clarified, "is that she wanted to personally see to the well-being of her brother and sisters." He turned to Adrienne. "Am I right?"

She humped one shoulder. "You seem to have an irritating knack for it."

"I've been told that," Charles smiled softly.

Cordelia wanted to know of Adrienne, "Why can't you ever just say things like that out loud?"

Winston squeezed her right arm. "I'm afraid such displays of sincere emotion is a luxury not belonging to many an eldest child. Something I've unfortunately allowed to go too far in our family." He took a moment to look at each of his children. "Consider what we've seen during our time with the X-Men. An impenetrable chain linked by devotion and loyalty with hardly any common bloodlines. Little Charles, a child, displays a deeper bond with his unborn brother. Wealth, power, position—" Winston shook his head slowly with dismay. "They should be obtained for the good of the family, not at the cost of it. I cannot apologize enough for not emphasizing that to each of you."

Swelled by the undiluted sincerity radiating off her father's presence, Emma proved unable to dart her eyes away from him.

"Father," the formerly silent Chris addressed. "Cordy helped me understand something the last time we were here. For far too long I have blamed you for my own irresponsibility. Until it became second nature. But I should have stood up straight years ago." He walked up, standing as a secured shadow over Cordelia. "I don't want you to run from me ever again."

As he enveloped her into a tight hold, Cordelia found resting space against his chest.

With one hand pressed at the back of Cordelia's coat, Winston used the other to touch the rear of Chris' neck. Departing from them a moment, he went to get between his oldest daughters and offer them each an arm.

After a moment, the remaining two sisters shared an extended gaze.

Quiet eyes on all of them, Charles stooped to hoist Joey up when the boy came close enough.

IIIIIII

Lowering the volume on It's a Wonderful Life, Alana got up to respond to the knock at her front door.

Trick stepped inside. "Hey, Lannie."

"Hey." She shut the door after him. "What are you doing down here?"

"Heard a beautiful redhead was all by herself. I couldn't allow such an injustice. Not on Christmas Eve." He looked at her. "Why don't you join us upstairs?"

"It's okay, really," she assured, taking a seat on the arm of one chair. "Believe me, I've gotten used to the solitude. Besides, it's given me a chance to think some more."

"Certain you don't mean rethinking?" Trick put forth.

"No," Alana shook her head, "that much I'm sure of."

"He's home right now you know. All you need to do is phone him up."

Standing again, the woman walked off a few paces. "I wish it was that simple, Trick. Besides, with Christmas… it's not a good time."

Trick came around to face her. "Sooner or later, 'Lan. You're going to have to make the time otherwise rethinking may just be in order."

Knowing the words carried nothing but truth, Alana arched her head back with a sigh.

IIIIIII

"There," Logan fell back on the floor of the loft, "Done at last. Lousy kids better be grateful."

Victor laid down opposite of him with their heads connecting but not facing. "They're grateful."

Something invaded Logan's mind, making the corners of his mouth turn up. "I still remember that wooden train set ya got me that first year. You'd think it was made of gold the way I acted."

"Hm, funny. All I remember," Victor bumped temples with him, "is a puny runt pouncin' on me at the crack of dawn. You and that cat…"

"Hey," Logan reached around to jab at him, "you leave Pickle Toe alone."

Victor shook his head then recalled, "That was some five star breakfast Ma made that mornin', though."

"Mm-mm," Logan hummed in delight. "Flapjacks, pastries just oozin' strawberry…"

"Yep."

The pair lingered in silence that way until a disturbance of the urchin kind returned them to the present. They headed down the stairs where Scott, Becky, and Joey gathered by a debating Cody and Trav.

"How many times do I have to say it?" Cody wanted to know.

"You're just saying that to make fun of me," Trav accused.

"Am not!"

"Cody, just lay off," Scott attempted to intervene.

"Yeah, stop fighting," Joey supported.

At a low level roar courtesy of Victor, all five pairs of young eyes turned up.

"Alright, enough," Logan directed firmly. "Now what's this all about?"

Trav walked up to him, pointing a finger Cody's way. "Wolfy, he says there's not a Santa."

With a mixture of a growl and a groan, Logan ran a weary hand down his face. "Cody…" He looked at his son. "What have I told you about repeatin' every word I say?"

"What?" Cody raised his hand guiltlessly. "It's true, ain't it, Dad?"

Becky piped up, "Even if it is, you didn't have to make him upset."

"But I wasn't tryin' to!" Cody insisted. "I was just tryin' to tell him the real story."

"If you're interested in the real story," they all looked to Kayla now, who just walked up, "I believe I can help."

Cody smiled. "Alright, Mama. Tell 'em."

"Do you really know, Miss Foxy?" Trav implored.

"Yes. Now, come with me." She led the way into her quarters.

Kayla sat at the head of the bed and the children sprawled out over it facing her while the men stood off by the doorway.

"Now," Kayla began, "the real Santa Claus was a man named Nicholas."

"Like St. Nicholas," Becky pointed out.

"Exactly," Kayla nodded. "He was born in the village of Patara during the third century. He was the son of wealthy parents, who raised him in the Christian faith. After their death, he inherited everything. But instead of spending his fortune all on himself, Nicholas used it to help the sick, needy, and most of all children. Soon, word of his generosity spread far and wide. Long after his death, legends and stories about Nicholas continued. It eventually turned into a tale we're familiar with about a man in a red suit with an army of elves and reindeer. But Nicholas was no magical being watching a child's every move and judging them as good or bad. He was simply a man. A man who lived a fulfilled life doing for others."

"Reminds me of Joey's dad," Cody interjected. "A rich guy always helpin' people."

Joey grinned at that. "I like Nicholas' real story."

"Me, too." Trav frowned a moment. "But how come I never heard it told like that before?"

Kayla explained, "Sometimes a story can get told so many times by so many different people that it gets changed around and a little overly imagined."

"I don't see why," Scott said. "The truth is the better version."

Trav surmised for clarification, "So the red suit man with the big belly isn't really real then, right?"

Kayla responded, "What's real is the spirit of Christmas. The reason we're fortunate to receive presents under the tree or food on the table is not through magical means. It's through the kindness and hard work of the people in our lives. We should always be thankful for what we have and do all that we can to help bless others."

"She's right you know," Becky agreed. "Oh." Remembering something, she hopped up. "We should start working on the Christmas cookies." She started out with the boys behind her.

"Hey," Logan called after them, "weren't ya listenin' to a word Kayla just said?"

"They're not for Santa Claus," Becky told him. "They're for you, Knight Victor, Papa, Uncle Charles, Auntie Em- all of you."

"Yep," said Scott. "You guys are our Santa Claus."

The children continued out with that.

Victor shared a look with his brother and sister-in-law then went behind the small ones.

Logan walked over and joined his wife in bed. "Nice job, Mama."

A satisfied Kayla stretched out against the pillows.

IIIIIII

Logs successfully lit, Emma from the fireplace to poke at the embers. A sudden sharpness from her middle region caused her to drop the metal rod. With a low groan, she took a moment to situate herself against the mantle.

From the hall, Adrienne stopped briefly before making haste into the suite. "Are you alright?" She positioned her hands at the blonde's shoulder and back. "Is it the baby?"

"He's fine," Emma stated, managing to stand a little better. "So am I- relatively speaking. These cramps come on so suddenly."

Adrienne guided her over to the bed. "I'll get Hank McCoy."

"No, really." Emma laid out on her side. "It's passed." Adrienne brushed stray strands of gold away from her face, allowing Emma to study her countenance in full in the low lighting. "Why in the world does Victor interest you?"

"I see you carry a high opinion of your supposed friend."

"I do," she said. "But come off it, Dri. Your social circles hardly coexist on the same planet."

Adrienne put forth, "Maybe that's the best part."

Emma further argued, "But you can have any other man."

"I'm not a telepath, Em," Adrienne said. "And mutated men don't exactly carry business cards disclosing their biological makeup."

"So he's a convenience."

"What he is…" Adrienne's face softened. "Is so far from ordinary men. While uncouth and all too talented in the field of irritation, he's also completely remarkable. Forceful yet driven. Wild yet focused. And let's face it- he's the entire football team in one."

"Far too tall, broad, and void of English accent for my liking, but I do catch your drift," said Emma with a slight impish air about her. "While I know Victor is entirely capable of taking care of himself, if you're out to use him as some insane attempt to screw with me…"

"Would you just," Adrienne paused to calm, "It isn't about you. To be quite frank, I'm not sure what it's all about myself."

Emma confided, "I've been on that track myself."

The young brunette creature cocooned inside a thick comforter entering caused a shift in their gazes.

"Are you working tonight, too?" Cordelia asked Adrienne, taking a spot on the bed that faced her.

"No," Adrienne answered. "Rare breather for an impending major holiday."

"Adrienne," Emma spoke, "there really isn't much sense in Victor taking you back into the city only for you to return tomorrow. Why don't you just stay the night?"

"Yeah," Cordelia supported with a smile.

Adrienne replied glibly, "It is the most sensible option." She looked at Emma again. "Thank you."

"There you three are." Chris walked in, carrying a short stack of plastic cups in one hand and a bottle of clear yellow liquid in the other. "The night is far from over. A toast is still in order."

"Christian Frost, what do you think you're doing with that?" Emma pointed out the bottle.

"Here I thought you would at least hold off until the new year before diving off the wagon," said Adrienne.

"Sisters, please." Chris used Emma's night table to begin pouring out the drinks. "I am a recovering alcoholic, Dri is about ten paces from an AA meeting herself, Emmie is with child, and Cor… is a child."

Cordelia stuck her tongue out at him and accepted the cup, catching a brief sniff of its contents. "It's only apple juice."

"The kitchen also carried grape, but," Chris gave Emma and Adrienne their cups, "I don't think any of us need the heavy stuff tonight."

"I take it you want to toast to your newfound employment," Adrienne presumed.

"No, actually." His eyes dimmed a bit. "This is the first Christmas she won't see." His sisters fell under a shroud of unison silence. "Regardless of wherever else she fell short, we must applaud her efforts with the birth canal."

"It's a fact," Adrienne stated simply.

Chris raised his cup high. "In memory of Hazel Frost. God rest you, Mother."

The four noiselessly joined their cups together before drinking.

Cordelia turned her head towards the mouth of the fireplace. Merry Christmas, Mommy.

IIIIIII

Once their parents bid their final good nights, Becky and Kiki remained huddled together for fifteen minutes. Then, with all the quiet she could muster, Becky crawled out of bed. After she had Kiki in her arms, she whispered a gentle hush into the younger girl's ear. With Kiki's psyche still in such delicate development, Becky knew she could not follow along to her telepathy like the others. Fortunately, the toddler comprehended their need to not make a sound.

Tipping out of her room, Becky called for Joey, Trav!

We're here. Joey stepped forward, hanging onto Trav's hand.

This is so cool, the eager Trav broadcasted.

I know. Becky then added, but not so loud. Scott? Where are you?

Right here. The shades wearer came upon her, unable to mask his giddiness at their plans.

We're all here. Frank approached with Cody and Jasmine.

Becky's smile glowed under the Christmas lights. Then let's go wait for Nicholas.

Mastering the art of the tip-toe, the group of youngsters proceeded downstairs.

II

Moisturizer cleanly spread across her blue face, Raven spun around on her vanity bench.

"Why can't I shake the sneaking suspicion that the kids are bypassing the sleep portion of the sleepover?"

"Yes." A shirtless Hank left out of their bathroom. He took Raven's hand, bringing her up towards him. "Bad, bad children. All of them."

The shape-shifter formed a smile as they shared a kiss.

Raven stepped back abruptly, leaving a finger on Hank's lips for a moment. She untied and removed her white robe, now wearing nothing more than her engraved raven necklace and wedding ring.

Practically ripping off his sleep pants and underwear in one swift action, Hank offered his full self for her viewing as well.

Arms going around his neck, Raven pulled herself up on him and rejoined their lips. Using both hands to hold her in place, Hank walked backwards until he reached their bed. Performing a quick turn, he got her down on the mattress. A pant escaped Raven when he entered her.

Entire form rocking with untold vigor, Hank kissed her everywhere he could reach in that moment. His tongue lingered at her scales every so often.

Soon brought to a place of thrilled delirium, several flashes passed throughout Raven's mind. She could see those two shy children of last Christmas Eve. She saw herself beholding the necklace he could wait not for a minute longer to give to her. She heard the first "I love you" they exchanged. She thought she'd known happiness that night but now, they shared so much more. A wondrous life complete with the joy as well as pain that came with it.

When they finished, at least for the time being, they remained in each other's grasp. Hank held onto his beautiful Mystique and Raven burrowed into the strong chest of her Beast.

IIIIIII

Under the magnificent Christmas tree, the multitude of blankets filled the floor like a large patchwork quilt. Pretzels, potato chips, Hershey kisses, many leftover cookies, mugs of hot chocolate, along with countless else passed back and forth between the X-Children.

"I didn't think anything would top last Christmas," Becky said from where she sat near a couch with Trav and Kiki near to her.

"We never ever had one like this," Trav told her. "We never had anything like this."

"I used to feel so alone," Becky recalled despondently. "But definitely not anymore. I'm so glad to have all of you with me."

"And we're glad to have you." Scott flopped down onto his stomach beside her. "I don't know how you do it, Rebecca, but you're always able to make things better. Like magic. I wish I had that in me."

Becky shook her head. "You don't need to be anything else, Scott. You're already brave and strong and smart. We can always depend on you."

Scott promised her, "And that's never going to change, Rebecca."

Kiki crawled over and laid down with him. Scott folded the blanket over her and rubbed her back through it.

Noticing Cody's locked gaze on the near endless assortment of presents, Joey asked, "You thinking about what your dad built?"

As if returning from a daze, Cody ran a hand across his eyes then faced him. "I was thinkin' about my sister. This is the best Christmas I've had since she's been gone. I still miss her, but the hurt ain't as bad. That's why I'm worried."

"What do you mean?"

Cody's voice lowered. "I never want to forget about her."

"That could never happen." Joey scooted over closer to place an arm around his friend. "Just like she'll never forget you."

Cody managed a tiny smile. "You know, Joey. Your dad's not the only one that reminds me of St. Nicholas."

Beneath the windows, Frank and Bounty engaged in a contest of wills, nose to nose in visual combat.

When he could not contain his blink any longer, Frank let off an indignant, "Aw, man!" He sat up. "I swear this rabbit's got powers." He turned to his left where the despondent girl laid on her side. "Jas, what's up? I thought things went good over at your grandparents'. Is it 'cause Holly's leaving soon?"

Still looking away, she said, "I'm sorry, Frank."

"Huh?" His eyebrow went up. "Sorry about what?"

Jasmine rolled over and propped up on her elbow. "I shouldn't have tried to get you to kiss me."

"Hey! I was a willing participant," Frank informed her.

"But we didn't even need it." She laid her hand over his wrist. "We're going to be together for a long time. No matter what, right?"

"Oh count on it. And let me tell ya," he gripped her hand in turn, "Our first kiss will be way better than sitting on some couch. With lots of sparkles and glitter and… all that other dazzly stuff chicks go on about."

She smiled and gave him a strong hug that he immediately returned.

IIIIIII

Exiting the master suite with a delighted hum in his throat, Charles spotted the all too stealthy veteran making his way through the hall.

"Logan?" he petitioned.

"Shh!" the older man raised a finger to his lips. "Grab the others. Hey, red," Logan caught up with Sean, slipping an arm around him covertly. "I need to borrow you a minute."

At Charles' puzzled expression, Kayla stated dryly, "He's about to do something bad."

"Oh dear," Charles sighed but sent the mental message out to everyone else present on the second floor.

"I don't believe it," Victor stated at the sight of Adrienne.

The bathrobe clad woman with head full of plastic curlers put a hand on her hip. "And just what do you find so fascinating?"

"Ya look…" He regarded her up and down. "Halfway human."

Giving him a scowl that lost its effectiveness in her present appearance, she retorted lightly, "And you look as obscenely all-natural as ever."

An all too casual Winston strolled by them. "Good morning, you two."

"Good morning, Father," his daughter returned while Victor said, "Mornin', Adrienne's dad."

When all of the adults and teens present upstairs gathered down in the living room, they beheld the sight of the sleeping youths all blanketed by the sunlight.

"Oh they're angels from on high," Holly cooed.

"Yeah, the sweetest things." Logan turned to Sean with a sinister smirk. "Scare the halos off 'em."

Sharing a similar fiendish look with the man, the young banshee sent out a caw soft enough to keep the glass in place but loud enough to startle the youngsters into an immediate upright position. Several shrieks and outcries resulted as well.

"Was that terribly necessary?" Charles asked of Logan.

Erik commented in clearly amusement, "Oh I think it was."

"That's what they get for stayin' up half the night." Logan indicated his own son. "Do ya have any idea how hard it is to get the edge over this kid on Christmas mornin'?"

"Just wait for next year, Dad," Cody declared. "I'll get ya back good."

"Ah," Leon folded his arms behind his head, "holiday war games."

Becky shrieked again but now in glee. "It is Christmas!"

Trav jumped up and down. "Present time!"

"Eh, eh." With a single raised hand from Charles, all small ones, teenagers, along with a few eager young adults backed away from the tree. "Not quite yet." At the anticipated belly aching, the Professor cut into with a sharp, "What I mean is," he turned around, "there's one gift far more important than the rest."

Breezing straight through those around him, Charles moved purposeful until he reached Emma. Watching as he seized her hand, the telepathic woman's only action proved to be the movement of her legs as she followed him out to the middle of the room.

Raven's own hands went over her mouth and she released a muffled, "Oh my God."

Erik's countenance remained in even support for their brother.

Becky's face looked ready to split straight in half from the grin that developed there.

"Emma," Charles dipped until he contained his weight entirely on one knee, his eyes never leaving her, "mother of my children, keeper of my inner most thoughts," lifting his clasped hand, he unfolded it to reveal the white-gold band, "love of my life."

"Charles," Emma exhaled, remaining still as he glided the diamond covered circle up the appropriate finger on her right hand.

Ring in place, Charles clutched the dainty appendage that now wore it. "Will you do me the honor of becoming Mrs. Charles Xavier?"

A widespread, "Yes!" from several of their onlookers resonated with the most zealous sentiments ringing from Becky, Joey, and Cordelia with Winston not far behind them.

With a small smile at the welcomed enthusiasm, Charles still gently pressed, "Emma?"

At last, she reacted by pulling her hand away from his grasp. A now alarmed Charles returned to his feet.

Emma closed in upon him until not so much as an inch separated them. "Your answer is yes," her arms curled around his neck, "but the honor is mine."

A relieved and elated breath escaping him, Charles captured her lips in a kiss.

All thoughts of wrapping paper shredding forgotten for the time, shouts, cheers, and even growls resonated throughout the room, the mansion, and quite possibly all of Westchester.