X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall
Chapter One Hundred Thirty Two
Author's Word: Hi, fam! So, what have I been up to? Aging. I celebrated my birthday this past Wednesday, making this the fourth age I've been through while writing Rise or Fall. Have to say, it's a little mind-blowing on my end and I certainly consider this story one of my more worthwhile accomplishments. Of course and as always, that's in large part to all of you. So, please enjoy and review!
With an extended exhale, his nostrils filled with the scent of vanilla and dried lavender petals from the potpourri displays the Bed and Breakfast suite offered. Blue eyes peeking out, they revealed themselves in full to take in the golden haired radiance still asleep right next to him. Charles gathered her into his arms and brought her in as close as he could without jarring her, leaving their foreheads connected.
A few minutes passed and he felt her come to life in his grasp. As she had for him earlier, he acted as her first sight of the day.
"What time is it?" she wondered.
Propping his head up with his hand, Charles replied, "Who the devil cares?"
Emma released a faint moan and stretched one arm out before taking in his expression. "Why do you look at me that way?"
He leaned in until hardly an inch separated them. "What way?"
Her eyes glossed guiltily. "Like you see something so worthwhile."
Charles stated, "I see what is worth more than my entire family fortune. And now at last," he cupped her cheek, "I can awaken to her each and every day." He closed the gap between their lips and shared a lengthy kiss with her. It clearly did not prove long enough as he immediately clutched at her when she attempted to rise. "Where are you going?"
"To tame this tumbleweed that used to be my hair." She attempted to comb fingers through the unruly locks.
His face morphed into that of a wounded urchin's. "You would leave me alone for such a stretch of time?"
Emma titled her head with a smirk. "You mean five minutes?"
"I'll be miserable every second," he insisted sullenly. "Besides, we still need to order breakfast."
"I'll call." When Emma reached around for the phone, she got a good look at the clock, too. "Eleven fifteen?"
Charles' eyebrows lifted significantly. "That late already?"
Emma turned to him again, pressing a hand against his silk pajama shirt. "We are shameful and hopelessly lazy."
Charles put forth humorously, "To atone, we should deny ourselves breakfast."
"But I'm absolutely famished," Emma sulked.
"Hm," complete coyness covered Charles' face, "so am I." He reached over to attack her neck with his tongue.
"Charles!" Emma could not help squealing.
Unable to bat him away, she dissolved into sheer bliss while he adorned her with kisses.
IIIIIII
"Okay, throw a question at me. Anything at all." Ben pointed out the first hand to shoot up. "Cody?"
Cody asked, "What's with these hats?"
Amongst the mild laughter from the other children gathered, Ben smiled and parroted, "What's with these hats?" before moving on to the next question. "These hats," he indicated the top of his own head, "are called yamakas or kippahs. Traditionally, men wear them as a sign of respect to God. Some only for prayer or temple worship while others wear them at all times. For many of us here, it's the equivalent of wearing crosses around our necks." At the next hand rising, he responded to her with, "Yeah, Becky?"
"Why don't girls wear yamakas?" she wondered.
Ben said, "Once again it goes back to tradition. It's not that they are forbidden to wear them or anything, but they're typically associated with males. In certain synagogues, a few women might wear them. Ordinarily I see them use lace or a scarf to cover their heads during prayer and worship."
Cody then inquired, "Do you like being a rabbi?"
"Well first," Ben started, "I'm not a full-fledged rabbi or minister. I'm more of a spiritual leader teaching little kids like you." He cracked a grin. "Kidding. But seriously, this job means a lot to me because I love being able to share my own experiences and the knowledge I've gained with all of you. Even though I'm still learning myself. So yeah, I definitely like what I do… which has absolutely nothing to do with the fact that my parents are watching me right now."
The group of young people all looked to where the guilt-faced Braunsteins stood with a few other adults in the doorway.
"Don't mind us," said Sylvia.
"Yeah, keep going," Chad encouraged.
"Ma, Dad," Ben spoke meaningfully.
"What, are we throwing you off?" Chad feigned astonishment. "Do you want us to go?"
"Yes," Megan felt the need to answer for her brother.
Their younger sister Rachel tacked on, "No grown-ups allowed."
"This is our turf," another boy chimed up.
"Okay, we know when we're not wanted," Chad gave in.
"Let's go." Sylvia guided them all away.
Erik shared a wave with Becky as he followed the others.
"Your son is well-spoken for his age," he commented.
"He's been listening to his father long enough," Sylvia pointed out.
"And despite that, he's still good at what he does," Chad quipped. "He's got a tough racket, though. People think it's so easy to share the faith with children when nothing can be further from the truth. I mean, you remember temple growing up, right? The overrated chore?"
"My parents did a little better in that regard," Erik said. "They helped it come alive for me, but I certainly know what you mean. Most children don't look forward to services. I'm fortunate in more ways than one with my little girl."
Chad nodded at him. "That's where peer leaders like Ben come into play. They help make God out to be more than another strict imposing grown-up with endless rules to follow."
"It's a hard challenge to take up," Sylvia stated. "But Ben has been a natural for the most part."
Erik glanced in the direction of the children's room again. "It's nice that you have this for them."
"If you like this, you should check out adult night," Chad brought up. "We all get together and it's one big open mic. A lot of people like to share testimonies and get things off their chests. I usually share my story because, you know, picking on the rabbi is the best part."
"Yes, it is," Sylvia smirked.
Erik turned thoughtful then said, "I may have to take you up on that one of these days."
After another round of questions, Ben declared, "Alright, that about wraps us up for now. I'll see you guys next week."
Standing up from the large circular rug with the others, Becky approached him. "That was great, Ben."
The teenager smiled at her. "Thanks, Becky. Especially for bringing your family by."
"They wanted to come," Becky told him. "Joey, Cody, and I watch Adventure Bible Tales together all the time."
"Speaking of Joey," Ben looked to where the little blonde stood silently next to Cody, who spoke with some of the others, "he doesn't talk much does he?"
"He's just shy sometimes. And he misses his mom and dad." Becky glanced at Joey before turning back. "They're still away."
"I understand," Ben assured. "Josh tends to be quiet in crowds, too."
"These things look pretty cool," Cody said, coming over to return his borrowed blue yamaka to the brown bin.
"Mostly on you," Ben complimented. "So I hear you're into Adventure Bible Tales."
"Yep," Cody nodded. "My favorite is Jonah in the whale."
"I like his story, too," Ben concurred. "And you posed some pretty good questions today. If you ever have any ideas for topics we can go over, I'd love to see you back here."
"Yeah, sure," Cody smiled, turning to Joey. "Right?"
Joey bobbed his head.
Megan walked up to Becky. "Did you ask your dad yet?"
The curly headed girl turned slightly sheepish. "Not yet…" Her eyes went to the doorway. "But I will now." Making her way out of the room, Becky found Erik still speaking with Chad. "Excuse me. Papa?"
He immediately peered down at her with a wide smile. "Finished in there already?"
"Did you enjoy it?" Chad asked her.
"Yes, Rabbi," Becky answered before placing attention on her father again. "Papa, can Megan, Rachel, and Josh come over to play this afternoon? Please?"
Erik considered the request then responded, "That'd be fine." He faced Chad. "So long as it is alright with you."
"Of course," Chad granted. "Syl and I don't have anything planned today. I can have Ben bring them around to your place at two."
Grinning from ear to ear, Becky took a moment to bounce on her toes. "Thank you, Rabbi. Thank you, Papa!" She dashed away to tell the others of the positive news.
IIIIIII
As the warm water rained invigoration down upon them, Emma found her face essentially hidden in the nestling spot against Charles' neck. Their bodies huddled as near together as they could, she felt complete safety in her husband's clutch. Whether it was the tub they currently stood in or a crumbling raft in the middle of the ocean, she knew for certain he would never let go of her.
Hardly paying attention to anything but the beautiful vessel in front of him, Charles' left hand remained at her back while the right lingered on her ever growing stomach. With Emma's and their developing child's minds and beating hearts drowning out the sounds of the pouring water, Charles absorbed the envelope of comfort.
Not until the water became all too cold did they finally get out and towel off. Charles put on his robe and Emma slipped into her white satin own that seemed to outline her form perfectly. When she sat on the edge of the bed to start on her damp her, Charles crawled up behind her and gently took her brush.
"Let me," he said.
Shifting her neck so that the blonde strands fell entirely to one side of her, Emma remained still for him to work the brush through. She closed her eyes, breathing in through the nostrils at the tender tugs to her hair that no stylist could ever possibly replicate.
When she felt back, Emma lay back and he cradled her upper body. "Kiss me." Piercing blue eyes on her part reiterated the request.
Promptly complying, Charles dipped his head and joined their lips. Against their will, they eventually required air again and had to part. Charles lingered his forehead against hers.
What shall we do today?
Charles came back with, anything you wish. All I want is to be able to cherish you.
You are off to one unbelievable start, she informed him. Will you dress me?
What would you like to wear?
Whatever you want to see me in.
Charles laid her down on the bed then walked over to their spacious closet. He picked out an outfit of a skirt, blazer, and simple blouse. Before he returned to her side, he stopped off at the dresser to retrieve a pair of lacy white panties along with a bra.
Taking his time, he worked glided and clamped the underwear onto her. He kissed along her belly then clothed her in the selected outfit.
Emma smiled after he finished. It's my turn.
I don't want you to tire yourself, Charles fretted. But I promise to put on whatever you like.
Your red shorts, gray slacks, and one of your white collared shirts, Emma decided. No tie today.
Yes, my love. She watched him retrieve the clothes she wanted then ordered, slowly.
Sending her a smile loaded with suggestion, Charles took a great stretch of time dressing himself. He ensured she received the full frontal show.
Lowering back onto the bed with her, he sang out, "I have a surprise."
Emma propped herself up by the elbow. "You plan to outdo our chocolate filled brunch? You scare me, Sugar."
"That was mostly for him." Charles caressed her stomach. "Such a good lad you've been for Mummy."
"Don't overly praise him," Emma cautioned only half-humorously. "He'll start up the marching band before either of us knows it. Now," her eyes narrowed in that special way, "what do you have up your sleeve other than that long kissable arm of yours?"
"Let's see if it's arrived."
Emma let off something between a chirp and a squeal as he gathered her up into his arms and carried her straight out of their room. He only stopped long enough to snag his wallet off the dresser.
When they made it through the hall and down the short flight of stairs, Charles' face glowed. Following his expression, Emma's mouth formed a circle as the horse-drawn buggy pulled up out front.
IIIIIII
Completing yet another flawless series of aerial loops, Scott used his controller to bring the jet in for a landing. As he stooped to collect the toy, a giddy Becky rushed straight by him.
"They're here." She paused long enough to call over to the other two boys in the area. "Cody, Joey, they're here." She continued on towards the front of the house.
Scott watched them all go before going after them. It still amazed not only to have other kids coming over to play all of a sudden but that Erik had gone along with it without a need for pleading or pouting.
"Hi, Becky," Megan greeted first as she and her siblings filed out of the gray van.
Josh stepped up somewhat bashfully, adjusting his frames. "Thank you for inviting us over."
Scott stilled at the sight of him.
"You don't have to thank me," Becky smiled. "I'm glad you're here."
"Hey, let's go," Cody spoke to Rachel. "Our backyard's this way."
"Come on." Becky gently gripped Josh at the wrist before sprinting off with him and the others.
Scott regained his motion and walked passed an approaching Sean.
"Hey, Ben," the redhead greeted.
"Sean, hi," Ben returned from the van's driver's seat. "Got your delivery here on time."
"Aw man, ten more minutes and we'd have gotten them for free." Sean leaned over the window, glancing in at the other teen. "Sorry I missed your service today, but I promised to drive my girl to her mom's."
"Don't even worry about it," Ben assured.
"Hey, do you have to get back or can you stay over a while?"
"Sounds good. Just show me where to park and I'll call my folks."
"Yeah, they always worry when they don't know your exact coordinates," Sean said.
"No," Ben shook his head, "mine just want the okay that they have the house to themselves so they can uncork the wine."
"You live here?" Rachel asked with astounded awe.
"Yep," Cody replied proudly. "Isn't it somethin' else? It's the best place I've ever lived in my whole life."
"It's the prettiest place I've ever seen," Megan said. "But where are all the other kids?"
"We don't have as many as a regular school," Becky explained. "My brother Hank took his kids into the city earlier or they'd be here and my brother Frank can't come out because he's still on punishment."
Cody shrugged with an air of tragedy. "Guess we'll just have to suffer through without him."
Josh took notice of the other boy in frames. "Who are you?"
"I get to live here, too," Scott responded dryly.
"Oh, I'm sorry." Becky immediately introduced, "This is Scott Summers. Scott, this is Megan, Rachel, and Josh Braunstein."
"Are you her brother, too?" Megan asked.
Before either Scott or Becky got a chance to answer her, Cody suggested, "Joey, let's go show them Xander."
"Isn't that your horse?" Rachel recalled.
Joey nodded and gestured off with his head. "His stable's this way if you want to see."
When the group of seven started to walk again, Scott jogged forward. He made a short apology as he bumped Josh's shoulder as he hastened on to move alongside Becky.
IIIIIII
Once the tour of the nineteen room home brought them into the library, the guide allowed the small cluster of people to spread forth and look around for themselves. The group mainly consisted of older tourists, all eagerly snapping photographs at anything they could.
"Would you take a look at this?" Charles ran a hand across the hand carved mantel. "Simply extraordinary."
"Most of their fireplaces came out of India," Emma said, "but the Twains picked this one up in Scotland. And you mock my outrageous purchases."
Charles laughed shortly, turning to look at her. "You are the only girl I've ever been with, with whom I can exchange scholarly notes."
"You sound awfully astounded by that," Emma noted.
"No, more like astounded that you're an absolute knockout on top of it," Charles stated.
Emma flashed her wedding ring at him. "It's all in how I choose to accessorize."
Charles smiled as they linked arms and strolled through the room together. "Samuel Clemens. Were you to become a writer, what sort of pen name would you choose?"
Emma presented, "Charles' Personal Trollop."
"That's the first thing that came to your mind?" Charles could not mask his amusement.
"Haven't you heard that telepaths are far too cool for real codenames?"
"I've become quite fond of Mrs. Xavier myself." Charles gave her a brief but sweet kiss.
"Mm," Emma tasted him. "So have I. More than anything."
"What do you say," Charles wound arms around her waist to pull her in, "we have dinner out at the most extravagant establishment we can find then take in a show? You could slip into that new maternity dress I love." He glided a finger from her hairline down passed her cheek and neck. "Flowing and silky with just enough leg bared to make a man wild?"
"Hmm. Well, I was thinking about draining the mini bar of all king sized candy bars, but," Emma played in his brown hair, "marriage really is about compromise, isn't it?"
IIIIIII
Marveled by the animal before her, Rachel removed her glove to fully feel the soft brown fur.
"He's really handsome, Joey," she said.
Joey patted Xander's nose. "You can go for a ride on him if you want."
"You ever been on a horse before?" Cody asked Rachel.
"We have," Megan piped up, indicating herself and Rachel. "Our parents took us out to a vineyard in the country before." She pointed out Josh. "He wouldn't try for a million bucks, though."
"I'm not real good around animals," Josh said bashfully.
"But horses are so much fun," Becky emphasized to him. "And Xander is really nice. If you want, I could ride him with you."
Scott promptly stepped forward. "That's not a good idea. What if his folks don't like him to ride without an adult there?"
"Oh they wouldn't mind," Megan assured. "Especially if he's not riding by himself."
Josh rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm not sure."
"Just for a minute." Becky placed a hand on his shoulder. "If you don't like it, we'll stop. Promise."
"Well," Josh formed a smile, "okay."
"Joey," Becky turned to him, "could you walk alongside?"
"Sure," the blonde agreed then went to get a saddle ready.
Scott let off a low grunt.
Cody looked at Rachel. "Maybe we could go next. I know a thing or two about horses."
Rachel grinned excitedly.
Joey got the saddle comfortably situated and helped guide Josh up onto Xander's back. Becky followed him up and held onto him from behind once they were both secure.
Marching over to the barn's built-in bench, Scott took a seat and formed a dark countenance mostly hidden by his ruby quartz.
IIIIIII
"This is her." Sean handed over the framed photograph. "We took that at the high school's Valentine dance last year."
Ben nodded approvingly. "Nice work." He placed the photo next to a lamp on the end table nearest him. "Her mom must like you if she's letting her stay here. School or no school."
"She gave me a watch for Christmas if that tells you anything, but her mom's pretty easy-going." Sean sat across from him. "It helps that Maya and I have had a thousand chances to have their house to ourselves and we have yet to throw a bash. Maya wants to be there for her, even if her mom stays pretty distant."
"The father's passing, right?" Ben mentioned and Sean nodded. "Yeah, my dad went through his own little period after my first mom called it quits."
"Sometimes I forget that happened to you guys," Sean said. "Your dad is so cool and your folks seem completely match made."
"Ma explains it as some people serving an important purpose in our lives while other ones serve a bigger better one."
Sean came back with, "I'm figuring that out more and more, actually."
II
Positioned by the windows closest to the back door, Erik gazed out upon the youthful merriment taking place in the backyard. Cody rode Xander while little Rachel clung close behind him on the horse. Joey guided the reigns of his steed for them. Becky, Scott, Megan, and Josh talked together over by the benches.
"Somethin' we don't see every day around here."
Erik darted his eyes to glance quickly at Victor then placed attention back on the outdoors. "The Braunsteins are still new here. Becky and the boys seem to have taken well to them."
"Especially my nephew with that teeny cutie," Victor observed. "No big surprise. Not him, anyway. You on the other hand," he faced Erik, "check you out. Think this temple's doin' you some real good."
Erik stayed silent for a moment before he requested, "Would you keep an eye on them? I'm going to look in on Frank."
"Anything you say, boss," Victor complied.
Erik nodded at him then made his way towards the stairs. When he arrived outside the young teenager's room, he found him doing some reading at his desk.
Frank placed honey brown eyes on the man. "Guess you want me to shovel the snow, huh?"
Erik replied, "I think a little reprieve is justifiable for the Sabbath." He came up behind him, peering over his shoulder. "Seems you've taken to your own good book."
Frank turned back to his copy of King James. "I don't know. I'm just trying to figure some stuff out."
Erik squatted beside his chair. "What sort of stuff?"
"About me. About my powers. I'm still not completely sure what it all means. Charles tries, but I don't think he gets it, either."
"Do you believe your new abilities originated from a high plateau?" Erik asked him. Frank glanced down with uncertainty. "I do, too, boychick."
Frank shifted eyes back to him in surprise. "How come?"
"Because when I saw your light back at the plant, I feared it," Erik told him. "At least for a moment."
"Huh?" A confused frown covered Frank's face. "You afraid of something?"
"Other than waking up and finding you gone from me? Yes, believe it or not. It's the same fear that's kept me out of temple until now." Erik put a hand to the boy's nearest shoulder. "I will help you understand the changes you're going through."
Frank smiled softly. "I think I'm scared of finding you gone, too."
"Are you?"
"Well," Frank pretended to rethink it, "if your hands ever up and disappeared, that's be pretty cool."
Erik feigned hurt. "But then how could I do this?"
Frank laughed then tried to dart away before Erik's merciless tickle fingers made contact.
II
"I think I wanted to learn to get close to my dad at first," Josh recollected. "But I really got into it with the history and everything."
"He speaks it almost as well as Dad," Megan told Becky. "Sometimes he can even translate for newcomers."
"I wish I knew it that well already," Becky said. "But lessons with my papa are the best. I remember the first song he ever sang to me. Shlof Mayn Kind."
"Sleep my child," Josh recognized. "I love that one, too."
Head propped up listlessly by his hand, Scott piped up sardonically, "Anybody ever take French?" He brightened a little when the others returned from taking Xander back to the barn. "Joey, there you are."
"Anybody want a snack?" Cody raised. "My ma'll fix us something."
"Not yet." Scott stood up. "Let's play some more before the adults call us in." He formed a grin. "Who's up for a snowball fight?"
Megan jumped up. "I am!"
"Me, too!" concurred Cody and Rachel.
"Okay," said Joey.
Becky turned to Josh. "Do you want to?"
"Sure," he nodded, getting up.
"Great." Scott ran ahead. "Everybody spread out."
The children divided along the extensive grounds. Cody hardly had significant snow collect before he started flinging it about wildly. The others got deeply involved in it in no time at all and very quickly, flying snow filled the yard.
Scott tucked himself out of sight behind a tree. He gathered together the largest assortment of snow he could, portions of it hard and combined with muddy slush, and formed a ball with it. Lifting his concoction, he zeroed in on where Josh played near Megan and Becky and sent it out.
"Ah!" Josh cried out when it collided roughly with the side of his face, snapping off a portion of his frames.
"Oh no!" Megan rushed over to him. "Your glasses."
"Are you okay?" Becky touched his coat sleeve in concern.
Josh dug some of the snow out of his ear while trying to collect the pieces of his glasses.
"Oops, sorry about that," Scott approached with his hands behind his back, "Guess I aimed that one a little too high."
Josh gazed at him only brief before taking off as fast as he could towards the house.
"Josh!" Megan hurried after her brother.
"What happened?" Rachel wondered as they zoomed by.
"Let's go see," Cody said, going behind the older children.
Ben immediately looked away from talking to Sean when his brother appeared in the living room, making a beeline for him.
"I want to go home."
"Whoa, hey." Ben cupped Josh's face, checking him over. "What happened? Did you break your glasses?"
"I want to go home!" Josh reiterated stronger.
"Guys, what's going on?" Sean asked when he saw the other X-Kids enter.
"Beats me," Cody shrugged. "We didn't even see."
Becky started to explain, "We were playing then—"
"That wasn't playing," Josh cut into her, shooting an accusatory glare at Scott. "He threw snow in my face on purpose."
"I did not," Scott immediately denied.
"Sure about that, Shades?" All young people looked to Victor who seemed to have materialized just outside the room. "Because that's not what I saw from my angle."
Becky placed eyes on the boy in question, clearly alarmed by the whole thing. "Scott?"
Scott only glared down at the floor.
Victor raised the wrist that carried his communicator. "Erik, we need ya in the livin' room."
Erik came down without delay, absorbing the various confused or angry expressions on the faces of the youths.
"What is going on here?" he asked Victor.
"Scott?" The security man gave him a slight nudge with his foot.
"He hit Josh in the face with a big snowball and made him break his glasses," Megan filled in when Scott failed to speak.
"No, we were having a snowball fight and it was an accident," Becky insisted. "Scott would never do anything like that on purpose."
Erik turned to Sean who raised his hands and said, "We were in here the whole time."
Erik then knelt before the accused boy. "Scott," he patted his cheek to make him look up, "I want the truth."
Scott finally glanced up again. "Yeah, so maybe I did hit him on purpose. I could've thrown a snowball the size of a pea and those stupid elephant glasses would've still snapped in two."
Cody and Joey's mouths dropped in twin fashion at the way he spoke while Sean's eyes enlarged and Becky grew speechless.
Having gained the information he needed, Erik stood to his full height again. "Wait for me in my den," he pointed the desired direction, "move."
At the sharp final word, Scott made tracks that way though the heated countenance did not leave his face.
"Victor, see to it that Josh is alright then take the children to the kitchen for hot chocolate," Erik directed. "Ben, I am sorry about all of this. Please let your parents know I'll pay to replace Josh's glasses."
Ben nodded. "Yes, sir. Thanks."
IIIIIII
A contented whistle on his lips, Charles returned to his room. "Darling, the coach is—" he froze momentarily before charging forward to Emma, who bent over the bed in visible pain. "Love, what is it? Are you alright?"
"Cramps," she got out, hand running down her stomach.
Charles raised her up onto the bed as carefully as he could. "I'll phone a doctor."
"No, it's fine," Emma looked up at him. "They're not as frequent as they once were, but more intense as the due date approaches."
"What can I do?" Charles wanted to know.
"Could you fill the tub?" she asked him. "The warm water usually helps."
Without a word, Charles made a path for the bathroom and began running the water.
Emma remained still, easing off for a couple minutes. Soon she felt a lift from behind and found herself in Charles' arms. Carrying her into the bathroom, he got her out of her dress and underclothes. Slowly and gently, he lowered her into the waiting water. Relief echoed from Emma's lips at making contact with the heated moisture.
Getting in behind her, Charles worked the scrub brush down her back. After he finished, he placed massaging fingers on her shoulders. He kissed her skin every so often and sent caressing whispers into her ear and mind.
Taking in his every lingering touch, Emma felt a stray tear cascade from her eye and down her cheek until it dropped to immerse with the rest of the water around her.
IIIIIII
Rage filled smoke practically billowing from his ears, Scott felt ready to let his eyes go shades-free for several moments all to obliterate any random object before him. Not only had that Josh kid invaded his home but now all because of him, Erik was upset with him. Something the man next to never became in regards to Scott. Giving a hard kick to the base of the sofa, Scott slouched in place and continued to fume.
Erik arrived shortly, keeping the doors shut after him. He remained quiet for a few seconds, gauging the boy's face. Not so much as the smallest trace of remorse did he observe on the normally kind, sensible child's face.
"So," Erik walked up to him and knelt down, "have you anything at all to say for yourself?"
The first thing Scott said was, "You shouldn't have let them come here. Least of all him. He didn't even want to play with us. He just wanted to hang around Rebecca and make her feel sorry for him. And go on and on about how well versed he is. What's so great about Hebrew, anyway? If it was any use they'd teach it at normal schools."
Entirely taken aback, Erik crossed his arms. "Since I refuse to believe you've suddenly developed an anti-semantic mindset, I'm going to wager that you felt a little out of place out there. Maybe even jealous of Josh."
Scott imitated the arm fold. "I'm not jealous of him."
Erik looked at him closely. "But it did bother you to know he has something so important in common with Rebecca. And to see her be very friendly towards a boy outside of this family. Is that why you reacted so angrily?"
Scott turned away from him. "Can't you just take the money for his dumb glasses out of my allowance and let it go?"
"Perhaps I would have been more open to that," Erik moved to sit on the couch, "if your attitude were not in need of a sudden adjustment." He quickly brought Scott over his lap and gave him a swat to the seat of his pants.
The boy reacted with a groan that very much represented his present temperament.
Erik went on with things in full but left his hand in midair at one point when Scott started jerking about and kicking.
"Having a tantrum are we, Mr. Summers? We'll just have to fix that, won't we?" Erik reached underneath the pre-teen to unsnap his jeans.
This change made Scott pale and he slowed his movements. "No, Erik! I'm sorry!"
Erik warned, "Keep still and behave yourself," he tugged his pants down, "or next you can search my desk for the yard stick."
Scott hung his head at that then whimpered when he felt his underwear go to his ankles to join his pants.
Raising his hand again, Erik peppered the bare bottom before him soundly and did not leave the thighs unnoticed in the process. He hated it more and more with every strike but knew it particularly necessary in that instance. If any little boy, especially his own, needed a lesson in contrition, he made it his duty to act as teacher.
Scott's anger melted into intense crying and sadness as he lingered in place, feeling pain in more than one area.
When Erik finished, he resituated the boy's clothes and returned him to his feet. "Go stand in the corner."
Not arguing, Scott wiped in vain at his eyes under his glasses until he reached the nearest corner. He started to bring his hands back over his behind.
"No, no," Erik reprimanded like he would a much younger babe. "Arms at your sides, young man."
Though he obeyed, Scott cried harder at that.
Erik only made him stand there for four minutes before deciding it enough. "Alright, Scott. Come here."
Sniffling and hiccupping a little, Scott walked back to him. "I-I'm s-sorry, sir. I- I'll—" He could order no more as Erik enveloped him in a tight grip.
Erik frowned at the resistance the boy showed and pulled back to face him. "You don't want me to hold you?"
"I don't deserve it," Scott claimed. "You're so mad. I know you hate me."
"I do not," Erik stated strongly. "Scott, I love you with my whole heart. That's why I was so firm with you." He held onto him while still looking into the young face. "The last thing I want is for you to become so filled with jealousy and anger that it turns you into something you're not. Bullying and harsh rudeness is not you, Scott, and I will not accept it. You're far too important to me for me to lose you to such a wayward mentality."
"I'm so sorry, Erik. I won't do it again," Scott vowed. "I can't believe how I acted. I was even bad when you were punishing me. I'm not supposed to do that. Charles is going to be mad; he's gonna spank me when he gets home and I'll deserve that, too."
"Shhh," Erik hushed the rambling lad. "Charles will not be angry and he is not going to give you a spanking. I'm going to tell him what happened of course but I will also tell him that you learned a very good lesson. He'll be too busy hugging you to spank you."
"Kay." Scott wiped away his lingering tears. "I'll go apologize to Josh for everything."
Erik said, "I don't want you to do that if you're not really sorry about it. It'll be nothing but empty words."
"But I am really sorry," Scott assured. "It was mean and I got to make it right."
"Look at you," Erik smiled at him fondly, "constantly making me proud. However, before any apologies are made we're going to the bathroom to clean your face." He stood up with the lanky boy.
Scott wound one arm around his neck. "Erik?"
The man faced him. "Yes?"
"… Can I please rub now?"
Erik could not help chuckling. "Yes, yes. Go on."
Letting off a hiss, Scott used his spare hand to combat the supreme sting to his rear spots.
IIIIIII
Ready with a spoonful of the warm broth, Charles held it up to pair of lips that refused to part.
"Would you prefer airplane noises or the choo-choo train?" he asked her in jest.
Emma's countenance remained set. "I'm sorry, dear."
Charles grimaced and placed the tray to the side of the bed. "What on earth for?"
"I've been nothing to you but an oversized burden ever since we came here," Emma asserted. "I wake up hideous. My clothes don't fit. God forbid I can put on the only dress that doesn't make me look like a beach ball supported by two toothpicks and go out with you and be remotely attractive for a single evening."
"Emma, Emma." Charles took her hands. "Stop this. Do you hear yourself, love? I don't care about the clothes or dinner or any of this. We could have spent our honeymoon inside a linen closet as far as I'm concerned. So long as we're together."
"Charles," Emma's eyes dimmed further in sadness, "we haven't even consummated our marriage yet. I'm just so terrified of something happening to the baby…"
Charles repositioned himself so that he could better wrap his arms around her. "So am I. Waiting is our safest option right now. But regardless, my love. Our relationship has never been defined by the physical. Far from it. I wasn't awaiting our wedding so I could sneak my way back inside you." He rested his chin on her shoulder and she tilted her cheek against his. "I wanted to wake up every single morning and find you by my side. To experience the fullest life we can together."
"I never even tried until I met you," Emma uttered to him. "How indebted I am to you, Charles."
"And I to you," he returned. "And that bit about you being hideous is entirely absurd. You are so beautiful, lively, and sexy that you make me go weak at the knees every time I sense you near. To be honest, I'm usually left to wonder how you could ever find me attractive."
"Charles Xavier," she faced him, "how can such a brilliant man be a fool at the same time? You're the most handsome man alive. Your eyes alone lure me in."
"I suppose I will have to beg you to forgive that foolishness," he stroked her chin and smiled, "Emma Xavier." She pecked his fingertips. "Now, dear wife, you are going to eat all of your dinner. Then we are going to devour that chocolate cheesecake that is waiting on us and I don't want to hear another word on the matter."
Prepared to follow orders now, Emma opened her mouth for him to feed the soup to her again.
IIIIIII
Sean dangled one leg over the arm of the chair while he spoke into the phone. "Were your folks really ticked?"
"Nah, they understand," Ben responded from his end. "Mr. Lehnsherr called here already and I explained everything, too. Josh only took it to heart so hard because of the kids at school. They're always giving him a rough time about wearing his yamaka, the glasses, his weight, anything they can find."
"Add on pasty skin and glow-in-the-dark red hair and you have my life," Sean sympathized. "I'm glad things are square between them now because I'm telling you, that wasn't like Scott at all. Kind of resembled the behavior of another tiny teen I know walking around here but not Scott."
"How's he doing, anyway?"
"Probably still kicking himself but he'll be fine." Sean sat up in the chair straighter. "Hey, Maya and I are going to services at the Westchester Praise in the morning. You want to come check it out?"
"Cool," Ben agreed. "I've been meaning to scope out the local churches for my journaling, anyway. Maybe we could grab some food after."
"Great. We'll just confirm with your wine corkers and my Uncle Erik."
II
With a voiceless command, the mounted sword flew from the wall and shed its scabbard. When it neared enough, the metal wielder seized hold of it by the grip. Situated in the middle of the room, he proceeded to swipe ferociously at the air around him until the tiny footsteps from behind made him turn around. There he found a long face that stretched out nearly to the length of the child's curls.
Floating the sword over to his desk, Erik dipped himself to her height. "And where may I ask is my baby's smile?"
"Oh Papa," Becky bowed her head, "I feel so bad about Scott. I can't believe I left him out like that."
"Now, now, Sweet Imp," Erik hoisted her up and brought her around to sit behind the desk with him, "what Scott did was no fault of yours and he certainly doesn't blame you."
"I just wanted to make Josh feel welcomed here," she said. "Because he's so shy he's too scared to talk sometimes. I really wanted us all to be friends."
"I believe you all will. And do you know what else?" Erik raised her chin and she looked upon him expectantly. "You did nothing wrong. You behaved as you always do when someone new comes to our doorstep. With that invitation and warmth only capable of by you."
Becky started to smile but instead remained a little confused. "But why was it just Josh that bothered Scott and not Rachel or Megan? Megan was talking way more than Josh was."
"I believe Scott was not quite ready to share you with other little boys," Erik explained carefully, "outside these walls. He and I can relate there."
"Oh," Becky nodded, clearly finding the answer acceptable.
"I suppose this is something we'll all have to get used to."
Becky smiled earnestly. "Thank you for letting them come over, Papa."
Erik kissed her head. "You're welcome, ladybug." Holding onto her securely, he reclined in his chair comfortably.
II
"Alex!" Upon sighting the teenager coming through the hall, Joey sped right for him. "You're home."
"Finally," Alex sighed tiredly, picking up the eager nine-year-old. "Would've been back already if it weren't for the great textbook holdup."
"Al," Joey touched his shoulders, gazing into the older blonde's face, "why do you have to keep going to school? You're already so smart."
"See, stuff like that is why I wish you could fit in my backpack so I can just carry you around all day. But seriously," he spun about with the little boy, making his laugh, "I want to be able to help people get back on their feet after they've been hurt. And I need this magic piece of paper known as a degree to really be able to do that. Besides, I like school." A sour expressed crossed Joey's face. "I know, I know. Gross. Sometimes I don't believe it, either. Anyway, I heard Scott's having a bad day so while I check in on him, why don't you go make sure Cordy's staying out of trouble?" He put Joey down with a mild smack on the behind, making him scamper off.
Lethargically leafing through the pages of the comic book, Scott raised up onto his knees at the knock. "Who is it?"
"Boogeyman."
No humor in him, Scott only said, "Come in, Alex."
Poking his head in first, Alex entered in full and closed the door after himself. "What, no red carpet? Forget you." He held a mug out to him.
Scott peered in at the warm beverage. "I don't think I'm supposed to have that."
Alex kept the drink in place. "Chocolate goodness or a noogie. What's it gonna be, twerp?"
Scott finally accepted the mug with a soft, "Thanks," and took an extended sip from it before placing it on his end table. "Guess you heard, huh?"
"Sean filled me in." Alex pulled him up into a hug. "You get a spanking?"
Scott nodded into his shirt. "With my pants down. And my shorts."
Alex winced on his behalf. "Does it still hurt? You want an ice pack?"
"No, it's better," Scott said. "Besides, I had it coming."
"Hey," Alex glanced down at him, "you're talking to a guy who's gotten it bare with the belt, okay? But I'm going to need you to shape up a little because if you're going to be bad then I have to be good and that's just too much work."
"How would you know?" Scott smirked slightly. "You never even tried."
"Oh fun-ny, Scott-ie." Alex gave a light knock to the top of his head. "But I really do get how you felt about that Josh kid. And I'm not expecting you to be perfect but I don't want you to let things get to you until you wind up going off like that. That kind of attitude got me into a lot of trouble when I was your age. I don't want that for you."
Scott wilted a little. "Are you disappointed in me?"
"Hey," Alex lowered to better meet his eyes, "no chance. I'm only telling you this because you're better than that, Scott. And I never want you to land in the jams that I did. But no matter what you do, I'm always here for you, little brother."
Scott joined foreheads with him. "Thanks, big brother."
IIIIIII
Room illuminated entirely by the flaming logs contained inside the fireplace, the telepathic pair sprawled out on the area rugs. All bed linens piled on top of them, only the remains of the cheesecake situated on its plate separated them.
Charles requested, "Whip me." He moaned in pleasure as his wife fed him a dollop of the sweet cream.
Emma took another bite of the rich dessert. "Your turn, sugar."
"Alright. Let's see," he thought a moment, "why did you not want a girl?"
"Me with a little girl?" Emma nearly scoffed. "I have nothing to offer her."
"But you're perfect with Rebecca," Charles pointed out.
"No, Rebecca is perfect," Emma countered. "I just fill a few miniscule gaps here and there."
"Nonsense," Charles insisted. "She and Kiki love you madly."
"It helps that we have no matching DNA. Look how short I fell with my own sister."
"And look how far you two have come in a short amount of time. How much more you will so long as you keep trying."
"Alright, my personal wise man," Emma eyed him, "how could you not want another son with how much Joey adores you?"
"Joey is not your average little boy," Charles reminded her. "Most of them want to read about superheroes or throw a ball around- typically not for tennis or cricket. Since I lost my father so early I never really had a long term influence nor the interest in such things. Thanks to Raven, girls are far more my specialty. But do not mistake me. I'm thrilled about our baby boy, come what may."
"I don't think I have to worry so." Emma caressed her stomach. "He's going to have so many wonderful men in his life. Most of all, an exceptional father who would do anything for him."
Charles sent her a smile. "Will you still desire me if my hair turns gray?"
"Sugar, I will desire you if it all falls out," she assured, gliding fingers through the brown strands.
"Bite your tongue," Charles near gasped.
Emma laughed lightly then presented the next question. "Are you happy we got married, specifically before the baby's birth?"
"Yes," he answered her. "If we're being honest, absolutely. However, it's not because I fear being scandalized. I already have one son who had to live with an illegitimacy label stamped on him. I did not want the baby to go through that when I am here to declare to the world that you are both mine."
Emma took him by the hand to kiss his wedding band. "Endlessly."
Moving the plate out of the way, Charles scooted in near to her. "What do you want to do tomorrow?"
Emma turned thoughtful then faced him again. "I want to pack up, get back to our family, and really start this new life we have."
Charles kissed her for almost a full minute. You read my mind.