X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Fifty Nine

Author's Word: Sorry that this is only just now getting posted, fam. July 4th weekend and numerous family events were distracting. Thanks a lot for the fantastic as ever feedback, though. Please enjoy and review!

A combination of doves and eagles seemed to fly ahead as the highly on air one made his way into the dining area. Around the mahogany table with iron made onto the base of it as well as the chairs to keep them in place, two of his teammates sat directly opposite of each other. One proved preoccupied with his stray motor part while the other gave off a subtle shake of his head.

"Somebody got a taste of that Mexican water," Cloak commented.

Glancing over finally, Marco inquired, "What're you floating around about?"

"Merely looking forward to a certain to be unforgettable evening on the town," Fabian made his way over to the warming trays of the corner breakfast buffet, "Care to accompany, Marco-Polo?"

"Count me right out, Fabu," Marco placed attention back on the motor, "I'm not heading out anywhere else with you until I see proof of exotic dancers. Besides, I got repairs to work on."

"Killjoy," Fabian accused in jest, carrying his plate over to the usual right hand side of the table nearest the head.

Cloak piped up, "Why don't you ever invite me out?"

The chuckling that resulted on Fabian's part made him pause from buttering his biscuit. "Aww, is someone feeling left out? Don't fret, Collin. You'll be able to keep up with the big boys eventually." He patted the bottom of his chin. "When you're big and strong enough."

Marco said, "So another ten, twelve years tops."

Rolling his eyes, the auburn haired one resumed munching on his cereal.

Arriving inside the archway with long chiseled arms extended against either side, their leader spoke with, "My kingdom for a caffeine IV."

"Coming right up." Marco placed down his part to go over to their custom cappuccino station.

"Father," Fabian stood, reaching out for the man when he came near enough, "if you're ill feeling ill this morning I can easily bring breakfast to you while you rest."

Estevan gave his son's wrist a grateful squeeze as he moved to take his chair. "No need for such trouble. I'm afraid the extensive fatigue from Mexico is sneaking up at last."

"Allow me to revitalize you," Fabian offered.

"This will do the trick perfectly," Estevan said of Marco returning with the filled cup. He inhaled the contents pleasurably before taking a sip of the cherished brew. "Ah yes." He looked upon Marco. "You may have your pick of my vital organs."

The stout young man nodded with an intrigued countenance, returning to his seat.

"Collin," Estevan addressed next at the teen rising.

Form going still, Collin realized he had allowed the Saturday atmosphere to effect his judgment and hoped he had not created a problem by getting up without being excused. "Yes, sir?"

"Is that all you're eating?" Estevan dipped his head towards the cereal bowl.

The boy explained, "I'm not very hungry this morning, sir."

"I see." Estevan picked up his mug for another drink. "Simply remember that invisibility is only a gift until you waste away into nothing."

Fabian stated, "We have to remember he's still a growing boy, Father."

Estevan concurred, "That's certainly true."

Collin guided fingers down his forearm somewhat bashfully. "May I be excused?"

"Go on," Estevan shooed. "It is the weekend. Enjoy your youth."

"I know I plan to." With a pleased visage, Fabian glided a forkful of omelet into his mouth.

IIIIIII

Sock covered feet hurried into the room at such a rapid rate that they nearly slipped up on the portion of the hardwoods not covered by area rug. Going to the end of the bed, Cody climbed up onto the mattress and crawled out towards the slumbering occupant.

Placing an ear against his mother's stomach, his sharp hearing picked up on the steady beat and delight filled him. "Hi, sis."

Stepping out from the bathroom in jeans with a towel draped around his neck, Logan acknowledged his son with a low, "Cat-Cat."

The whisper made the boy look over. "Hey, Daddy." Getting onto his knees, Cody brought his arms up.

Logan snatched him into a hold, veering about briskly with him. They shared a head-butt. "They doin' good?"

"Yep," Cody then added proudly, "and I'm makin' sure."

"Oh yeah? What's say we take five so they can get some more sleep?" Logan proposed. "I'll meet ya out back." He placed him on his feet.

"Okay, hurry up." Cody turned and jogged out.

Removing his gray t-shirt with boxing gloves on the front, Logan slipped into it. After he finished putting on socks and shoes, he bent over to touch his lips to Kayla's. He lingered a hand on her midsection as he took leave of their suite.

Eyes remaining closed, Kayla released a gladdened exhale and her hands maneuvered down to clasp her stomach.

When he arrived in the backyard, the veteran took in Cody racing back and forth through the shrubbery. He received the briefest glimpse of an equally hyperactive toddler with a wild mess of hair covering his eyes but a blink brought him back to the present.

"Dad, Dad!" Cody ran at him.

As soon as his son established contact with him, Logan put on a dramatic display of tumbling to the ground. Cody stayed on top of him, pawing at him in a way that showed both his attempt at pinning as well as infantile kneading. Logan growled at him and pretended to nip at the short fingers. Cody flopped down on him and he rolled to the side with arms wound around the boy to keep him in place.

Wiggling around so that his back touched against his father's chest, Cody reached out for the older male's hands. As he often did when the boy showed an interest, Logan protruded his bone claws enough for Cody to get a feel for them. The child wore the same expression as whenever he watched him shave, shoot or clean a weapon, or floor at top speed on the motorcycle.

At a wind passing over them, Logan prompted, "What's that smell?"

"Uh," Cody took a whiff of their surroundings, "the peonies are ready to bloom?"

"Somethin' else. A short way's south."

Cody inhaled and smiled at almost being able to taste the sweetness. "Honey. There's a hive nearby."

"Yep. Where?" Logan clamped a hand over his eyes. "No cheatin'."

Laughing and wriggling playfully, Cody's ears went to work now. "That one." When his father allowed him to see again, he indicated the specific tree. "That's a gum, right?"

"A Sweet Gum. Got some good value." And it did not surprise Logan whatsoever to see such a thing on the Xavier property.

IIIIIII

Supported by the king sized bed's headboard, Emma cradled and hummed to Brian. The newborn wore a soft blue outfit with matching booties and cap to shield his easily chilled head. Joey sat beside his mother, giving his brother full use of his pointer finger to squeeze and occasionally suck on. Becky stood over by the sitting area's table, replacing the cloth and flower arrangement on it.

At the nearing minds, Emma said covertly to Brian, "My apologies in advance."

Charles came through first, directing the others inside. "And here they are."

"Look at this," cane in one hand, Winston extended both arms grandly as he approached, "the most beautiful sight in the world."

The bliss that filled her father's face sent a genuine swell throughout Emma. She recognized it from that first day back in Boston when she'd introduced the two other Xavier men in her life.

"Hello, little sister." Chris came around to kiss her cheek then gazed upon the bundle of delicacy she held. "Forgive me. I don't believe we've met."

Emma formed a smile. "This is our Brian Henry Xavier."

"Perfect." Winston sat on the side of the bed, propping his cane up against the end table. "Please, may I?"

Joey gripped his mother's arm. "Are your hands clean?"

Chris raised his own appendages. "Right to the bathroom after arrival. Hardly had time to wipe our feet."

"Okay, but be careful," Joey emphasized. "You have to watch his head."

"Thank you, little Charles." An amused air radiated from Winston as Emma gently gave Brian over. "Ever appreciated since I have no children of my own and live the life of a contented nomad."

"Father, we did not come all the way here to listen to your senile fantasies," quipped Chris.

With a small chuckle Charles said, "Joey is only being cautious. We're all relieved to have Brian's overall health at last up to par and we want to make certain it remains that way."

"Look at you," Winston's eyes could not leave the tiny vessel, "such a resilient fighter. I must say, you look very similar to another little boy I once held this way. God only knows what became of him."

"He's up to his neck in exams." Chris could not grumble entirely as he remained focused on the baby. "But you certainly do resemble Uncle Chris, don't you?"

"Look at those blue eyes," Winston marveled. "I know those Frost blues anywhere. You all get that from me."

Her own green orbs narrowed, Becky piped up, "My Uncle Charles has blue eyes, too, you know. You're not special." She left with that, bypassing the redhead in the doorway altogether.

Sensing the shock in the room at the little girl's words in addition to his own, Charles addressed, "Adrienne," she looked away from the departing child in the hall towards him, "go on and have a good look at your nephew."

She declined with, "In a while. He's overwhelmed enough as it is." Adrienne bobbed her head towards Charles then Emma's way. "Congratulations, you two." She turned to go.

Making it through the hall, down the stairs, and out the back door, Adrienne continued her pace until she found a shaded corner of the enormous house. Rifling through her oversized purse, it took two seconds to uncover the flask. Before she could unscrew the lid, however, she found herself veered around with an entirely different sensation connecting with her lips.

After pulling back from the practically unyielding kiss, Victor said, "Was hopin' I'd taste better to you."

The flask fell from her person as she wordlessly leaned forward on him. Corners of mouth rising, Victor left one hand at her back while the other delicately worked its way into the copper hair.

IIIIIII

Stack of various Keebler cookies between them on a plate, Angel finished a fudge stripe before bringing up, "I need a favor."

Cordelia shrugged and sipped her milk. "I'm all for blood donation these days."

Angel explained, "While we're here, I have to make an appearance at Adrienne's latest party. It's being held at the Waldorf or the Palace- one or the other- and they're kind of cool but the crowds at these things are always…"

"Part of the Medicare scene?" Cordelia filled in.

"And educated with all this refinement, going on and on about stocks and Kennedy conspiracies and books that take an hour to get through the first sentence." Angel's expression turned pleading. "I'd really love to have someone there I can actually talk to. Plus it'd be great for you to be there when I do the whole dolled up, glamour bit."
Smiling, Cordelia agreed, "I'm there."

Shrieking in delight, Angel inched in to embrace her. "Love to love you, Glim."

Coming into the kitchen, Sean paused at the island to blink twice before a wide grin grew on his face. "Angel!"

"Sean…" She stood from her bar stool, fiddling with her hands. "I heard you- are you okay?"

"I'm great!" He then wanted to know, "Are you back for good?"

Angel replied, "Just not for evil anymore."

Sean then enveloped her in a close hug. Angel now smiled and returned the gesture around the taller teen's neck.

"So," Sean moved back to look at her, "if you want to snag Cordy's spot…"

Shooting him a glare, Cordelia flung a cookie his way, which he, naturally, caught with ease.

IIIIIII

Out in the generous spring sunshine, the two blondes reclined side by side in twin deck chairs on the master suite's balcony.

"I must say, Little Sis," Chris spoke, "for a woman who just recently had a baby, you're already back to being the prettiest petite out of Boston."

"Oh stop," she waved him off, two cushions providing her comfort. "As if that's a good thing. Most women are hourglasses. I'm hardly a pole."

"Don't you insult my sister." Chris folded his right leg over the left. "Unless you're referring to she of blustering bitterness from a little while ago."

"Chris, leave Dri alone," Emma said. "You can't possibly understand what she's going through."

"Two failed marriages, remember?" Chris mentioned. "Not a single child to show for it. Of course, I'm sure divine intervention went into play there. I'd be clueless with a daughter and an utter failure in the eyes of any son."

"Chris," Emma placed a hand over his wrist, "we have all made mistakes. I can definitely attest to that. But we managed to grow away from that little by little."

"I did not come here to fall back into our typical routine. I want to be your shoulder." He looked at her closely. "How are you feeling these days?"

"Some days are more painful than others, though it's been much better this week. Charles and Hank both tell me not to rush it." Emma's eyes carried heavy fog. "I simply want to stop being this creature of delicacy so that I can protect my children. It seems a threat from every possible side lingers over us these days."

"I know I have no power. Hardly anything to offer in fact," Chris stated. "However, regardless of what happens or how bad it may or may not get, I stand with you. All of you, Em."

His sister smiled as she said, "I know."

IIIIIII

Brown bear in his lap as if helping to hold onto the bundle, Joey bobbed back and forth in the rocking chair in a mild motion. Brian suckled on one of the stuffed animal's paws, partly open eyes peering up at the older one's face.

With a light knock, Winston glanced inside at them "My missing grandsons."

"Hi, Grandpa. He loves Dickon." Joey hefted Brian up a little higher. "He stays with him at night to make sure everything's okay."

"Ah, his own night watchman." Winston took notice of the familiar lithograph hanging from one wall. "Seems you're generous all around."

Joey said, "I wanted him and Cody to have some. Is that okay?"

Winston assured, "They are your present to do with as you will." He walked towards them, kneeling at the chair. "An elder sibling should always be thoughtful and willing to give of himself. It makes me very happy to know you've learned such a thing already."

"Thanks, Grandpa," the ten-year-old smiled. "It's good to see you. I've missed you."

"And I know I've missed you," the man returned. "I only wish I didn't have to return to Boston so soon but your uncle has his studies and I have duties of my own. However, I'm going to make sure we see more of each other over the summer."

"I can't wait."

Winston patted his cheek then gripped his cane to return to his feet. "Would you gentlemen care to walk me down?"
Baby and bear gathered, Joey stood to walk out of the nursery with him.

"So I'll see the two of you tonight," Adrienne said to the teenage girls present in the foyer. "Though this is a more casual occasion, see to it that you're appropriately dressed, Cordelia."

"So pearls to go with my favorite burlap skirt," Cordelia determined wryly.

Angel said, "Oh that'll look cute with some flannel."

Adrienne turned to Victor. "Get me away from the stench of youth."

"In a hurry as always, my dear," Winston commented as he entered the entryway with the boys.

Chris lowered to Joey's level, displaying his hands. "Sufficiently clean enough?" Joey nodded and handed his brother to their awaiting uncle, who stood with him. "Now if you're going to start crying the minute I walk out that door, I'll gladly push textbooks to the side all for your happiness."

"Don't make scapegoats out of the children, Christian." Winston then looked to his youngest. "Cordy, why don't you accompany us into town? We can stop in on your gentleman friend along the way."

Sharing muffled giggles with Angel, Cordelia told him, "Morrie's on a senior trip this weekend, Daddy."

He responded matter-of-factly, "Nothing that cannot wait for next visit."

Chuckling himself, Charles got the front entrance open for them. "Safe drives, everyone. And thank you for understanding about the wait."

Emma said, "We wanted things to settle down a bit around here first."

"You can give us back our baby now." They all looked to see that Becky had just strolled up.

Clearing his throat, Chris returned the newborn to his mother's grasp. "So I'll… call you tonight."

Able to pick up on the dissatisfaction bubbling up within the Professor, Victor decided to clear the crowd by leading the way out.

As soon as the door shut, Cordelia requested, "Ang, will you help me pick out an outfit?"

"You got it," Angel responded in equal urgency, taking leave along with her.

"Charles." Emma let his name linger to placate her husband.

"Joey," Charles petitioned, startling the boy who had worried eyes on Becky, "would you please go up with your mother and read Brian his new pop-up book?"

Though he remained uncertain, Joey replied, "Yes, Daddy."

Supporting Brian with one arm, Emma touched a hand to the back of Joey's head as they started towards the stairs.

Rebecca Lehnsherr, the telepathic summons echoed louder than the man's speaking voice, come here. Charles pointed down to the spot.

Becky came to stand before him, looking up with an even expression. "Yes, Uncle Charles?"

"What has gotten into you, young lady?" Charles crossed his arms. "You have been rude since the Frosts arrived. Such behavior is completely unlike you."

"They don't belong here." Folding her own arms, she looked to the side. "Auntie Em doesn't need them. Cordy doesn't need them. Joey and Brian definitely don't need them."

Charles softened and lowered to be nearer to her. "Love, I understand how strongly you feel about—" His eyes bulged a moment at the metallic pink box suddenly encasing the girl. He exhaled through the nose, "Alright," and flicked his hand to dissolve the illusion, "go to your room, please." He left a swat on her bottom.

Vision aimed forward, the head of cascading curls walked off purposefully for the stairs.

Practically able to see the wall that separated him from his little telepath, Charles chose to redirect his attention with some work in his office.

IIIIIII

Cody laughed and squirmed against the sudden arms around him followed by nose tickling at his neck. "Sean!"

"Code Man!" The redhead moved over to a chair beside him at the table. "Whatcha doin'?"

"Workin' on this for my sister." Cody showed him the collage of various hearts, kittens, and flowers. "Joey's gonna paint it for me. I'll bet his brother and my sister are gonna be best friends. Just like us."

"Probably, but you might want to add some trucks and superheroes to be on the safe side."

The younger boy stared at him strangely. "Why?"

"You know," Sean said, "in case your mom's having a boy."

"That's retarded," Cody responded automatically. "Why would we have a boy? God stole our girl so He owes us one."

"Yeah, buddy," Sean leaned in closer to him, "have you talked to Him about this?"

Cody then snapped, "Shut up, Sean. You don't know anything. Just because your mom stuck you with some worthless brother doesn't mean it's gonna happen to me. I'm gettin' a sister so there!" He leapt up from the table, knocking his chair down in the process.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa hey." Sean reeled him back in before he could storm out of the recreation room. "Calm down, Code Man." He pulled him onto his lap and gave him a strong squeeze. "I didn't mean to make you mad. What do I know about these things, anyway? You're probably right."

Though he relaxed a little, the set scowl remained on Cody's face.

IIIIIII

A knock preceded the petition of, "Sweet Imp?"

Her eyes brightening, Becky laid down her white bear to hasten over and swing open the door. "Papa!"

Stepping inside, he enveloped her in his arms and spun about with her. "Hello, baby." He felt her clinging at his suit jacket and his grasp of her remained firm. "Not having a very good day, are you?"

"Uncle Charles is mad at me. I know he told you."

"Your uncle is not and could not be mad at you," Erik countered. He took a seat on the side of her bed and placed her in front of him while gripping her hands. "You've had legal claim over a place in that man's heart since the day you met. You know that. However, he and I did speak."

Her gaze dipped a bit. "Are you going to spank me, Papa?"

"Actually, I came up here for answers." He placed her on his knee and looked into her round face. "What's the matter, ladybug? I've never known you to have a problem with the Frosts, outside of Adrienne of course."

"They're okay, but they made me sick today. You should have heard them. Oh, look Brian has our blue eyes. He looks just like us." She formed a sour expression. "It was disgusting. They think they're so special just because Brian has their blood. Joey and Alex look just like each other, too. And you and Uncle Charles both have blue eyes. And none of you have matching blood."

"That's true, we don't," Erik concurred. "I can understand how that would be so grating for you. But people like the Frosts don't mean harm with such comments." He bowed his head, resting his chin in her hair. "I remember when I was a little boy. I wanted to be tall and strong exactly like my papa."

Becky tugged on his shirt. "You mean you weren't always?"

Erik chuckled deep within his throat. "Hardly. Now that I'm older, it is his character I wish to imitate. I also now fully understand what a luxury that wish is. Not everyone comes from a parent they want to or even should aspire to be like, matching blood or none."

"Well, I want to be like you," Becky stated matter-of-factly. "Even if our eyes and blood don't match."
"Ah, but we do match. In and out."

"We do?"

Erik lifted her chin to lock their gaze. "Sometimes I look at you and see the best parts of myself staring back. You are the reason I've reconnected with my past. We are more powerful than any meager strand of DNA."

Becky smiled at him. "That's why Brian's our family more than anybody else's. Right?"

"Exactly right. But Rebecca," his expression turned firmer, "if you have a problem with your uncle, I want you to discuss it with him calmly. Do you understand me?"

"Yes, Papa." Becky nodded in compliance. "I'm sorry. I will."

Erik kissed her forehead and stood her. "Why don't you join your brothers in the den? I'll be along in a bit."

"Okay." Becky picked up her teddy bear and headed out.

IIIIIII

Departing the house through the front, the cream suit adorned man regarded the woman about two yards away from him. Red stands in a bun, she wore a sleeveless, strap free dress that came to her ankles with a lighter blue sash made onto the waist. A dark shawl covered her shoulders.

"The girls'll be down in a minute." He nodded towards the house. "Want to wait inside?"

"And stir another icy reception? I'll pass," Adrienne turned down. "I swear that child's had long-term exposure to Emma."

"Believe me, tutts, I've never known a female with more of her own opinions than little Becky," Victor stated. A silent air passed through them until he spoke again. "Did I tell ya my sister-in-law's expectin'?"

Adrienne commented, "From school for the gifted to glorified nursery."

"Adrienne—"

"I'm not in the mood, Victor." She turned towards him. "All I want is for this ridiculous affair to be over."

"That's a switch," he observed. "Normally this kind of thing is your Disney Land."

"Well, "this kind of thing" becomes very old very soon," she informed.

"Never gonna stop askin' "why them" are ya?"

"Don't attempt to know me, Victor." She waved a flippant hand.

"Who said I meant you?"

Adrienne's blue eyes darted over towards him but both grew distracted by the giddy teenage conversing headed their way and they let it drop.

IIIIIII

Finding the office door open as usual, the twelve-year-old filled a portion of the doorway.

"Dinner's almost ready, Uncle Charles."

"Hm? That time already?" Charles noticed his watch and stretched one arm. "Where did the time go?" He looked at the girl and a smile formed on his face. "Are those for me?" Becky nodded and went to replace the wilted flowers inside the desk's vase with freshly clipped and rinsed ones from the garden. "Thank you, Princess. I could always use a bit of cheer whenever I don't have one of you right in front of me."

Becky came around, resting on him in a hug. "I'm sorry, Uncle Charles."

Charles kissed her head twice and held her securely. "I know, Princess. And I love you very much." He rubbed the back of her dress under her hair. "We've all suffered so much mental strain of late. With so much change on top of that, it's no surprise you became upset."

"I feel like everything is going to be different now."

Charles inched away enough to face her. "What do you mean, love?"

"You and Auntie Em have Brian and now the Howletts are having another baby. I just don't want you to forget about me and Joey and everybody because we didn't come from you."

"Oh Princess," Charles hugged her again, "no, no, no. You perish such wicked thoughts from your mind. I may not have had to wait in anticipation for nine months but do you really believe I could ever forget how each and every one of you came into my life? In fact, you've spoiled me."

Becky giggled at that. "How?"

"Well, all of you were already wonderful. Emma and I know we have a great deal of work to do to make sure Brian grows up well."

"But that's silly to worry about," the girl put forth. "Brian's already wonderful. Besides, if Alex can get better, anybody can."

Charles made her squeal as he captured her in a lock on his lap, patting her bottom playfully.

IIIIIII

Positioned beside Victor at the front of the numerous party attendees, Cordelia played with her jeweled sunflower necklace. She wore a pale yellow dress with wide-spread skirt that stopped just above her knees. She looked on as her oldest sister took to the podium, moving her hips and legs in such a way that poise itself radiated while other women had to contend with perspiration.

"Living proof that true beauty really did rain down from the heavens," the red haired woman spoke out, "I would like to present the fresh face for spring," she gestured upward, "Miss Angela Salvadore."

Applause preceded Angel's arrival at the top of the stairs. She slowly and carefully descended the steps. Clad in an ivory V-neck dress with sheer cropped sleeves, the back of it flowed in a way very reminiscent of wings. As soon as she made it down, Victor stepped forward to extend an arm to the uncertain girl. She gladly wrapped a small hand around his bicep.

A somewhat bashful young man made his way through the crowd. "May I have this dance?" He held out a hand for her. "Please?"

Angel's eyes fluttered up towards Victor. Eying the youth that requested her presence up and down, Victor bobbed his head permissively. Angel linked up with him and they took to the floor. Other couples soon did likewise.

Cordelia walked to the end of the lengthy banquet table. She poured herself a drink from one of the various bowls. She had decided on sparkling lemonade in the event she spilled.

"Unjustly lackluster, isn't it?"

Looking over her shoulder, Cordelia had to lower her glass before she dropped it entirely. The one with neat ponytail in forest green and black attire removed his dark shades to further confirm it.

"Fabian Cortez."

"You remember," he grinned. "But then I suppose I left a most unforgettable impression. My," her touched one of her sleeves, "and I thought that mesmerizing gold displayed your greatest beauty. Learn something new every day."

She jerked her arm away. "What are you doing here? How did you find me?"

"Oh it wasn't easy." He waved in annoyance with his sunglasses. "This has to be the fifth Adrienne Frost affair I've crashed hoping to run into you. For sisters, she certainly lacks your," his eyes became enthused, "excitement."

"We may not be able to use mutant powers here but if you don't get out of here right now I am dunking you face first into the punch."

"Well, ouch. Don't tell me you're still angry about our first meeting."

"Because of you," Cordelia had to lower her voice as she hissed, "our kind is under watch. My friend was thrown into containment. They tested on him along with other kids."

"So the big bad human government commits wrong against your friend and you blame your own people for it?" Fabian shook his head. "They really have poisoned your mind."

"Get away from me."

Fabian caught her wrist before she could march off. "Don't you see? This is what my father and I fight against. They're the ones who contained him, took his rights way. Not us. Never us."

Having moved on to her second dance partner, Angel attempted to shift in step with him. Then she took note of Cordelia and her eyes enlarged at who she currently conversed with.

Feeling a tap on her shoulder, Adrienne looked up at Victor who said, "So you gonna stand up here and look good all night or do I at least get a dance in with my lady?"

Shrugging a shoulder, Adrienne accepted with, "What the hell?"

"Ya sure know how to bloat a man's ego," Victor said, leading her out among the other dancers.

Making her way to the side garden outside the hotel's ballroom, Cordelia took a seat on the edge of the fountain.

"I can't stop thinking about you." She glanced up to see that she had been followed. "I don't think you understand what our brief encounter did for me. I am able to feel it, enhance it—" He waved a hand around her slowly. "Your mutation is magnificent. You are so powerful. Do you know that?"

Cordelia regarded him then shook her head out. "Back off. I have a boyfriend."

"Oh, he's like us?" Fabian raised an eyebrow at her looking away. "So then he knows and accepts you completely."

"… Mind your own business."

"Do not waste your time with someone so beneath you." Fabian went to stoop before her. "It's their nature to fear us; to envy us. If you could only see what I have…"

Cordelia watched him intently now. "What have you seen?"

"Things I wish I could erase from my mind permanently." He eyed her. "I am not your enemy, Glimmer. Believe me," taking her hand, he brought her to stand along with him. "I wouldn't have gone through all this trouble simply to pick a fight. I will not be forceful. However," reaching inside his jacket, he retrieved a small thin gadget that resembled a short pen, "if you would like to remain in touch, use this communication device. I'm never more than a button press away." Cordelia nodded, enclosing it in her hand. "Good night."

"Wait," she called after his departing back. "This was a lot of trouble. You should get a dance out of it."

Turning around, he took both her hands with his own. They remained out there, moving in tune around the fountain.

IIIIIII

"Hey."

"Hey." Logan whirled around in his chair at the arrival in Eye Spy. "Kind of late for you tie types, eh geaze?"

"Cram it, Runt." The tie in question currently removed from his person, Victor flopped down into his own seat. "How's Kay doin'?"

Logan replied, "Better than me as always. It's still hard to believe."

"Speaking of, any clue about names yet?"

"My favorites so far are Logana or Kaylo."

Victor rolled his eyes. "Yeah, why don't ya keep focus on passin' out cigars, huh?"

"Daddy?"

Logan reacted to the pajama clad boy with, "What're you doin' out of bed?"

Cody rubbed at his eyes. "I can't sleep."

Victor gave Logan a nudge. "Go ahead. I got it."

Nodding, Logan got up and hoisted his son up as he walked through. "Can't sleep, huh? Bad dream?"

Cody said nothing as he burrowed his face against the man's shirt.

When they returned to the child's room, Logan laid him down before getting in beside him on the mattress. "Just relax." He worked a soothing hand up and down his back.

Cody quietly pawed at him. "Daddy?"

"Yeah?"

"I'm your baby boy, right?"

Logan clamped their foreheads together. "Last time I checked."

Cody then wanted to know, "Am I always gonna be?"

"Yep, you're stuck." Logan laid a hand over his eyes. "What do ya hear?"

"Um," Cody concentrated a moment, "water in the bathroom?"

"Nope, try again." Logan brought him near to his shirt front. "Little closer this time."

Ear against the strong chest, Cody realized, "Thump, thump."

Logan kept a hand at his back. "Now go to sleep, baby boy."

The sound echoing in his ears, Cody soon eased off.

IIIIIII

Stove dial on a low setting, Emma inserted the bottle into the warm pot.

"There you are." Adrienne entered the kitchen. "Well, the girls are taking part in teenage chatter. I'll be back for Angel around noon tomorrow." She observed her sister at work. "So I see it's true that newborns don't observe business hours."

"Certainly not Brian Xavier." Emma let loose as dainty a yawn as she could. "Charles is trying to calm his cries as we speak."

"I suppose it won't be long until another rolls down the assembly line."

"Absolutely, if we're fortunate enough to adopt another." Removing the bottle to check it, Emma glanced back at the now puzzled one. "There was too much damage. I won't be able to carry another."

"Oh," proved Adrienne's first reaction.

"Of course, Joey and Brian really are two more than I deserve."

Adrienne cleared her expression and said, "You should really bring that upstairs. I'll prepare some tea for you and Charles."

Bottle in hand, Emma walked over. "Thanks."

Adrienne applied a kiss near her sister's hairline as the younger Frost took her leave of the eatery.

IIIIIII

Upright in her father's lap, the half-awake child became animated again at the sliding metal door that ushered in her brother. On the edge of his toes, Fabian entered as if music played all around him.

"I take it the evening was a success," Estevan surmised.

"When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie," taking hold of Anne, Fabian twirled about with the now giggling figure, "that's amore."

"Ah, youthful romance," Estevan reclined comfortably in his seat, "but it's time to rest. We're on route for Florida next."

"Another opening or event, Father?" Fabian looked to him.

"No, Miami," Estevan told him. "After Mexico, I desire to tan in far cleaner surroundings."

Sister in his grasp, Fabian spun out and away with her towards their sleeping chambers.

IIIIIII

"Ugh," done at her vanity, Cordelia collapsed into bed, "I am officially wiped."

"Me, too." Bringing one foot out of the invigorating basin of Epson salt, Angel used a hand towel to dry off. "I'm too young to be this old… Cordy?"

The other girl looked over. "Yeah?"

"Don't do it." Angel turned to her. "That dark side seduction sounds fun but it is never worth it. Believe me."

Gaping for a moment, Cordelia concluded, "You saw us. That was just Fabian Cortez being a party crasher. I couldn't tell him to get lost fast enough. Don't even worry about that."

Angel nodded and finished wiping her feet. She laid down, shutting off the lamp by her cot.

By the light from her window, Cordelia quietly pulled out the drawer of her nightstand. She took the device out to study for a moment before putting it away once more.