X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter Two Hundred Two

Author's Word: Hi, fam! Thank you all so much for that terrific feedback. As for you, Mik15, worry not. You are very much in the Rise or Fall Fam. Now, please enjoy and review!

Maneuvering through in close observation of her fifteen pupils, the keen eyes belonging to the graying-blonde woman of medium height stayed sharp and void of blinking. The girls in individual colors twirled, making for an enthused youthful rainbow. Of course, certain portions of that rainbow proved more or less in balance than others.

"Assemble," came her next direction, "Leslie, start us off."

The brown haired girl launched herself off the floor on one leg, returning on two but pausing a second of two before completion. When their teacher only gave off a mere head bob of a reaction, the next few girls went forward.

Adorned in sparkling leotard with equally vibrant mustard yellow tights, Cordelia took her turn. Upon landing, her feet came together and she immediately went into the pose of the fifth position.

"Fine form as ever, Cordelia. Take care to ease the pressure on the balls of your feet."

"Yes, Mrs. Armistead," she nodded then moved out of the way.

After the others finished, Mrs. Armistead took note of the wall clock. "That's enough for today. Take a rest then hurry along to freshen up for your next class."

Many of them gladly breaking out of place, several started up conversations as they reformed their own individual groups.

Angel, in a leotard of a zig-zag pink and gray pattern, sat by Cordelia on the bench. "You seriously know what you're doing out there."

The other X-Girl began removing her ballet flats. "My mom was insane about us taking dance. Adrienne always had so many recital leads. I had a couple, but mostly played an extra honey bee or something of the like."

"Lucky," Angel commented. "I'd have loved to do something like that as a kid. Now, this classy stuff is all new to me. When we start busting out the electric slide in here, I'm all in."

Cordelia laughed then zeroed in on something just beyond the corner window.

At her rising in a somewhat mystified manner, Angel wondered, "What's wrong?"

"Oh nothing." Cordelia gave her a smile. "I left something in my locker." She picked up her gym bag. "I'll meet you downstairs."

"Okay," Angel agreed, heading out with some of the other girls.

As soon as she got out into the hall, Cordelia sped around the corner and rushed out of a side exit. At not so much as finding a janitor over there, her shoulders drooped with disappointment.

"You move like a swan immersed in gold."

Turning around in time to catch the male step out from behind a tree, she smiled. "And I never even liked ballet as a kid. My father considered it my part in the mission to make my mother happy."

Fabian strolled upon her. "Your existence alone should have accomplished that."

Cordelia grew quiet, regarding him with only her eyes for a moment. "What are you doing here?"

"My father considers it to be a priority to remain in the area, keeping close watch on the politics involving our kind. Not to mention Ignacio's trial."

"I don't mean New York state." She then clarified, "What are you doing here? With me."

He simply countered, "What are you doing? Without me."

"Not much," she replied honestly. Another silence swept over them. "I better get to class."

Watching her sprint away, Fabian remarked, "Nice outfit."

Cordelia hid a small shy smile as she hurried back inside the school.

IIIIIII

At the ball bypassing all raised hands of the various freshmen, Hank glanced away from his clipboard in time to see it coming his way like an intended projectile. Dropping his notes, he took a great leap, seized it, and landed smoothly on both feet again.

"Head's up," he called, sending it right back out.

Lifting one hand, Mondo caught it from well across the yard but could only comment, "Doc McCoy is out of this world."

Frank shared a wave with Hank before the gym teacher gathered his clipboard again. "He's a major football player from back when."

Tony said, "Hard to believe anybody can pack that much brain and brawn."

Mondo used his fingers to do a spinning trick with the football. "You'd be surprised."

Turning to them both, Tony brought up, "You guys want to come watch movies at my place tomorrow?" He looked specifically at Frank. "Carmen's pretty sure she can make it."

Mondo replied with a cool, "I'll see what's happening on my end."

"Yep, me too," said Frank. Though for his particular end, his concerns laid more with working on his powers of persuasion.

IIIIIII

Bitty wings fluttering courtesy of the open back space in her little X-Men uniform, the dark haired child flapped in a slow circle a few feet above the hardwood floors.

Charles placed gentle pressure at her waist to keep her still. "No, no, baby. Mustn't go too high."

When he let her go, Kiki went flying Erik's way and the man immediately captured her in a hug. "Don't go far from us. You'll break our hearts, bubbala."

Kiki gave a kiss to his jaw and hugged his face.

Both Headmasters knelt on the floor, creating a short space for the little girl to fly back and forth between them.

A minute later, Emma came into the second floor living room pushing Brian's stroller forward. "What have we here? Wasn't today your big appointment with the governor?"

"One Mr. Rockefeller was called away last night," Charles explained.

Erik felt the need to add, "Naturally, we weren't informed until our arrival in the city."

"Clearly manners are a lost art among those in power." Emma then smiled at Kiki coming her way and scooped the girl up. The blonde woman next sighed at the abrupt outburst from the buggy. "Brian, you were silent as a pin all day for Mother." She used one hand to rock his stroller a little. "Settle down now."

Getting up, Charles went to collect the baby. "Now, son. Daddy's here." He held him against his shoulder and patted his back. "Let's quiet those tears now."

At the continued crying, Erik approached next. "May I?" With another rub to the heaving back, Charles transferred him over to the older man's clutch. "Alright, Lab Mouse. Time to quiet down, yes?"

Streams of moisture slowing down on the small face, Brian's wailing came to a halt and he found enjoyment in tugging on the pocket made onto Erik's shirt front.

Emma tried to keep from laughing at the brief disgruntled look that came to Charles' face.

The Professor gave his son's back a gentle poke. "You did that on purpose."

"This innocent thing?" Erik raised the baby to kiss his cheek.

"Give him to me." Emma came over to accept Brian with her free arm. "I'm going to take these two to my room for a little rest."

Charles nodded and squeezed Kiki's hand. "Be a good girl. We'll play later on, alright?"

Kiki nodded, already growing limp against Emma's shoulder.

IIIIIII

Lost in a conversation, the two X-Girls hardly noticed Sean pulling up beside them with Frank in his passenger seat.

"Race you home," the redhead challenged.

Cordelia sent back, "Race you to Charles to tell him all about that speeding ticket you're going to get."

Sean stuck his tongue out at her before starting out of the parking lot.

Another vehicle promptly pulled up next, now capturing Angel's attention.

"Hello, ladies," one of the three male blonde passengers greeted.

Noah put forth, "Meet you at the soda shop? Banana splits on us."

Angel said with a coy smile, "We're on a diet."

Looking between both girls, Noah remarked, "Lord only knows why," then drove off with a heavy rev.

Cordelia started her car. "Only you could turn a big football player into a starving lion in your presence."

"Please," Angel dismissed. "I've got too much going on for that. Besides, there are plenty of guys here ready to trip over you. Spot any ones you like yet?"

"No," Cordelia maneuvered them out of the lot and took a right turn, "not here."

IIIIIII

Entering the windowless space designated solely for "tubbing", the long-haired brunette female found their leader in the midst of an enjoyable Jacuzzi session.

Without looking up, Estevan asked, "How may I be of service to you, my lady?"

Melissa said, "I wanted to let you know I was heading out. I've gotten some new information on that group home I was investigating. I should be back in time to help with the new mutant."

Estevan commented, "Our own living breathing Mother Theresa."

"Far from it," Melissa denied.

Estevan then brought up, "You know, this potential member of ours is right around your age. You might enjoy each other's company. I know you're still very young but it would be nice to see you settled down eventually."

Melissa's shoulder's stiffened. "With all due respect, that's never going to happen."

"You'll never know how unfortunate that mindset is," Estevan stated seriously. "You're not like other women. You're not… a black-hearted hydra in hiding. You're caring, devoted, and greatest of all, loyal. Do not be so quick to write yourself or your future off." Melissa merely nodded at him. Estevan then picked up on the wet sneaker prints appearing near the hot tub. "Oh Maxwell, is that you?" The little boy rematerialized just behind Estevan's head and the man reached a hand back to flick his ear. "You're a greater mischief maker than your brother."

Max let off a faux sinister giggle. "I almost surprised you."

"Your talents will be properly polished soon enough," Estevan assured. "Though, you will have to wake up far earlier in the morning to get the best of me."

Max shook his head. "You wake up too early as it is."

Melissa reached a hand out. "Come on, honey."

Max walked over and joined up with her.

They walked out, passing Fabian on the way.

Removing his robe so that he remained in only his trunks, he joined his father in the hot tub. "Are we off to find the one you mentioned before?"

"Several more hours from now," said Estevan. "This is one you won't catch until long after the sun is down. On a brighter note, if you can call it that, I made arrangements for that little matter you and I discussed."

A bright smile instantly appeared on the young face. "Oh thank you, Papi. I know Anne will be delighted."

Estevan stretched arms out to relax in the warm water. "Let's only hope I'll be able to say the same before it's over."

IIIIIII

"Dad, please?" Frank followed Erik about the man's sleeping quarters. "Sean's already agreed to drive me and pick me up."

In sweat pants and an undershirt, Erik reached down to grip the weight by its center to slowly begin bringing up. "I'll have to think about this, boychick."

"What's there to think about?" Frank wanted to know. "You let Alex and Sean do things with their friends all the time."

"Alex is older and most of their activities take place on campus," Erik reasoned. "I also know all of Sean's friends from the Temple."

"Well, it's not my friends' faults they don't live here. They're in honors with me, but they're so good they have to be bussed in. And you already met Carmen at Scott's last game."

Erik then mentioned, "And what about Scott's game tomorrow?"

"This would be after, Dad," Frank said. "I wouldn't just toss off Scott like that."

"Well, why don't you invite your other friends to the game and you can all watch movies here?"

Immediate panic entered Frank's brown eyes. "Dad, no, no, no. Please, I'm begging you. Don't make me bring them around here with the little kids running around. They'll drive us crazy. Besides, Carmen will be there." Frank folded his arms and bit his lip a little. "I don't need Alex and Leon hanging around and making her, I don't know, compare me to them or something."

Erik put the weight back on the floor and placed hands on the boy's shoulders. "Now, you listen to me. Any girl with so much as half a brain in her head would be thrilled to have you. And one who feels the need to compare you to others is not worth your time."

"I know, but it's a new school and I just want to have time with me and my friends. Please, Dad?"

Erik quieted to consider things. "Alright, but Sean will pick you up. I'm driving you over."

Though he started to cheer, Frank's spirits dampened at the rest. "Why?"

"I want to meet Tony's parents." Erik then promised, "Relax. There will be no interrogation involved. However, I'm not about to send my boy off to a strange house in Queens just like that."

"Alright," Frank agreed then smiled. "Thanks a lot, Dad."

"Now, do a favor for me." Erik summoned the stop watch from his mattress and handed it over to Frank. "Time me, please." He lowered to pick up his weight again.

As soon as he was in place, Frank pressed the proper button to keep up with the count.

IIIIIII

Flipping through the various colorful sketches, Angel showed the other two at the table a dress made up of blue, yellow, and red lines.

"This is one designer's idea," she explained. "Mixed America."

"That's so cool," Cody reacted.

Becky studied the multi-layered dress. "How in the world do you get into it?"

Walking the kitchen with Mira in her hold, Kayla peered over Angel's shoulder at the dress. "With a combination of patience of optimism I'd say."

"I still can't believe we're really setting off Hearts and Stripes Forever tomorrow." Angel took a moment to consider the reality of it all. "We're going to take like a thousand photos. And I get to meet with the other models. Of course, I'm mostly excited about seeing Sam."

Kayla asked, "Did Adrienne really go out and hire several multi-racial women?"

"Some," Angel responded. "A few already worked for her. I'm apparently the first to not try to just pass for one or the other. That's too weird. These ladies are older than I am."

"Sometimes it takes a pair of young eyes," Logan piped up, rocking with Todd. "We older folks get so set in our ways it becomes a way of life. But this whole color fiasco ain't something you see a lot of in Canada. Don't get me wrong. We got enough low-lives to last a few lifetimes, but racial trouble is nothing like it is here. Here in the states, all these different groups want to dominate over each other."

Kayla used one hand to stroke at Angel's hair. "You are starting something immensely important here, sweetheart. You're representing families like ours."

Cody said with a sigh, "I wish I could fly out with you."

Angel placed an arm around him. "You just keep representing us on this coast, cool cat."

Becky took hold of the pictures Angel laid down to leaf through the designs again.

IIIIIII

Dangling long legs over one chair of the first floor living room, Sean pressed, "Are you sure? Victor's driving Angel to the airport so the jet's totally free. You haven't even seen the twins yet."

"I know." Maneuvering through her own common space, Maya kept the phone pressed to her ear while watering the plants. "But I really can't come home this weekend. I'm behind on homework and Mom really needs me."

"I thought you said she was looking better."
Maya immediately reassured, "She is. But my being here is part of the process. I don't want to leave before I have to and jar her recovery. I'll be there on your birthday for sure."

"Okay," Sean somewhat dejectedly agreed. "I just miss you, babe. I better go, though. I have to phone Russ about our physics assignment."

"Alright. I love you." Maya quickly added, "And Sean, I miss you, too."

"I love you," Sean returned before hanging up his line.

IIIIIII

Getting the two girls tucked in after the Yiddish lullaby, Erik took a moment to run fingers through the copper strands of the toy under Becky's arm.

"Such a pretty doll your aunt gave you."

Becky lifted Lana up to study the jewel-esque eyes made into the delicate face. "She's the best one I've ever had."

Erik now took a gathering of her curls into his hand. "Have you heard any new complaints out of Mrs. Dobbs?"

"Not since yesterday," Becky told him. "She understood after I talked to her."

Erik nodded with approval. "It's impossible to see anything wrong or harmful after looking into these eyes of yours." He kissed her nose. "Good night, Sweet Imp. I love you." He reached over to peck Kiki's head as well. "And you, bubbala."

Becky smiled after his departing back. Studying Lana under the limited light offered by the window, she pushed back the unwanted thoughts that came at her at once. Laying Lana down again, Becky rolled over to cuddle closer to Kiki.

IIIIIII

The steel components that made up the high-intensity safe door peeled away and dissolved like snow to the sun's glares. With a clear circular opening now in place for him, the tall body practically made up of head to toe solid black attire, stepped inside. He wasted no time in unloading as much of the contents as would fit into the backpack he had with him. After fattening his pants pockets as well, he shot out in a zealous retreat.

Making it out through the door he had used previously, he began his hastened path away from the bank. At the footsteps he detected right behind him, he veered back with colt ready. Discovering only empty space there, he started to write it off as his imagination before an unseen force plucked the gun right out of his hand.

He reacted to the teenage boy appearing before him. "You're real cute, kid." Completely unimpressed, he whacked the gun out of Collin's hand before he could get a proper hold over it. "Now get the fuck out my way before you accidentally wind up in the Hudson."

A formation of air made Melissa materialize between them. "I have to advise against that. For your own safety."
"The hell?" he reacted then jumped at the slow applause behind him.

There he discovered the clapping older male next to a younger one who resembled him.

"Excellente," Estevan commented. "Leaving only a single door knob damaged so as not to bring attention to your location. Operating alone under a veil of absolute silence. And an ability that makes you unable to leave fingerprints behind. I must say, young man, you're quite the brilliant operator."

He moved in a slow motion to take all of them in before landing gaze on Estevan again. "Who the fuck are you?"

"Watch your language," Estevan reprimanded then softened to say, "There is a lady among us. I am Estevan Cortez and we are the Acolytes. We possess certain unique abilities, just like yourself. We're prepared to offer you a great deal if you're willing to consider our invitation of membership."

He stepped back. "You must be crazy."

Fabian came forward. "Your powers are strong and lethal as is. I can make their force tenfold. If you'll help us."

Now intrigued, he next wanted to know, "Help you with what?"

"Help us," Estevan clarified. "Mutants. No, we are in no way, shape, or form the only ones out here."

Melissa spoke with, "You're James, aren't you?"

Turning to her, he removed the face protection, showing his brown skin and eyes with lengthy braided hair. "Jim."

IIIIIII

The cloudy skies made the atmosphere as gloomy as the early morning start. As they neared the airport, Victor used the corner of his eye to peer at the one to his right. The young girl kept her head against the window, face practically pressed against it.

"You okay over there, doll?"

"Mmhmm," she nodded, perking up a tiny bit. "I'm just not looking too forward to this flight."

"I wish I could fly you all the way. But Scott and the guys'll go into revolt if I miss the game."

"Oh, I know," Angel assured. "It's okay. I'm just glad I'll be able to see Sam soon."

"I talked to her the other night," said Victor. "Can't wait to get out to see her myself."

Remaining quiet at first, Angel put forth, "It would be nice to spend time together. You, me, Sam, and Adrienne."

Victor spared a glance at her. "Yeah, it would."

They soon arrived at the airport.

As Victor wheeled in her one piece of luggage, a carry-on bag, Angel reminded, "There's still an hour before I take off."

Victor settled in a chair next to her. "I got the time. So, how's school these days?"

"Pretty good," she responded, going thoughtful. "There's this one guy who keeps asking me out."

Victor glanced down at her. "I don't want you wasting your time on any of these knucklehead clowns. Definitely not without my okay."

Angel promptly came back with, "I won't. Trust me." She rested comfortably against him. "I've had enough of that stuff."

Victor brought his arm around her shoulders, letting her drift off while he watched out for the flight.

IIIIIII

From the window of Erik's car, Frank took in everything as they rolled through the entirely familiar settings within the Queens neighborhood. Groups of different girls jumped rope together or hoola-hooped, a pair of boys threw a baseball back and forth, and several children ran through in a swarm of what appeared to be a major round of battle tag.

Erik caught a glimpse of the boy beside him. From the slightest bit he saw of his face, the metal wielder received the vibe of a long-gone adventure finally returning to his original location. He had to admit to enjoying finding Frank so at ease.

Another block down and they made it in front of the designated address. Dressed in dark jeans, a green camouflage sweatshirt, socks but no shoes, with a green bandana pulling back his thick hair, Tony became alerted to their presence. He flipped his legs over to get down from his roosting spot on the flat brick surface that framed the front steps.

"Hey, Frick-Frank," Tony waved at him.

"Hey!" Popping right out of the car, Frank jogged up to the porch to exchange a hand slap with him. "Where are the others?"

"Dragging their feet," Tony presumed.

"I'm the first one and they actually live around here? Either I'm a geek or they're shameful."

"Both," Tony determined then acknowledged the adult leaving the vehicle and readied a hand. "Good morning, sir."

Approaching the cape cod property, Erik removed his sunglasses and shook with the young man. "Good morning."

"This is Tony Aremu," Frank introduced then said to his friend, "This is my school dad."

"Erik Lehnsherr," the adult clarified. "It's nice to meet you, Tony. I've heard a great deal about you."

"Oh, you too," Frank returned. "Frank goes on about you at school."

"All bad I trust." At the secretive glance shared between the boys, Erik smirked a little. "Are your parents in?"

"Mom is," Tony answered and led the way in through the mud room, passed the living room, and into the kitchen. "Mama."

A tall, thin woman with midnight dark hair turned around. She wore a floor-length floral skirt with white sleeveless top and a silver cross necklace. With gentle hazel eyes, only a couple smudges of flour on her cheeks provided flaw to the warm olive skin.

She quickly formed a smile. "Oh, hello. You must be the new friend from school." To Frank's surprise, she reached over to give his cheek a little peck, though he had no complaints about the gesture. "Buongiorno, caro."

"Buongiorno, Mrs. Aremu," Frank said back, hoping his pronunciation sounded alright.

Erik extended a hand. "Buongiorno."

Clearly impressed with his dialect as they exchanged a shake, Mrs. Aremu asked, "From what part of Europe do you come, signore?"

"Poland. I've picked up Spanish and French in my time, but I must admit my Italian is far from perfect." He then told her, "I'm Erik Lehnsherr, Frank's guardian. I don't mean to intrude upon you this way. I only thought it important that we should meet with the boys spending time together."

"Marcella." To the rest, she waved off with, "Do not worry about it. You cannot be too careful, especially in this city. I wish you could meet my husband Barine, but he had to cover for one of his team members at the restaurant."

A teenage girl in a sky blue dress stepped foot into the kitchen. "Mama— Oh." At the sight of the company, she came in fully with a polite bob of the head. "Hello."

A sparkle set off in Frank's eyes at the sight of the tall honey-skinned girl. She had a massive main of ebony curls that rivaled Becky's in thickness.

"That's my older sister," said Tony. "Bianca. Bee, this is Frank and Mr. Lehnsherr."

"Hello, dear," Erik addressed while Frank gave off a somewhat mesmerized, "Hi."

Smiling, Bianca said, "It's very nice to meet you."

"Did you need me?" Marcella asked her.

Remembering her original purpose, Bianca informed, "I'm going to the library," indicating her over-the-shoulder school bag.

Nodding, Marcella instructed, "Be home for dinner, amore."

Erik offered, "I can give her a lift on my way."

"Oh thank you but I'm fine," Bianca turned down graciously. "It's only a few blocks so I like to bike over."

Tony added, "They stopped letting her bring the horse and wagon to hold the haul."

Laughing lightly, Marcella reminded, "Your sister suffers from a great deal more homework than you do."

Bianca gave her brother a playful sneer before taking her leave.

"I'd best be off, too," Erik determined. "It was nice to have met you."

Marcella said in turn, "Thank you for letting Frank come by."

Erik put a hand on Frank's shoulder. "Sean will be by this evening to pick you up." Frank began walking towards the front with him and Erik reminded, "Mind your manners and stay out of tomfoolery."

"Dad, I'm—"

"Fourteen," Erik finished. "I know, so as I already said, behave yourself." He gave him a small hug. "I'll see you tonight. Call if you need me."

"I will and don't worry," Frank said as they let go.

Erik walked out then and Frank locked the door after him.

He turned around to find Tony behind him, who asked, "Want to check out my room?"

"Sure." Frank walked through the hall with him. "You have a first floor room?"

"Yeah, but it's not that great," he said. "Bee's down here, too and I still have to share a bathroom with both my sisters. And I'm bussed, so I have to jump out of bed at like five every day to catch a shower."

"That bites," Frank commented. "So, where's Bianca go to school?"

Tony answered, "She's a freshman at Columbia." At Frank's sharp whistle, he said, "Yeah, I know."

As soon as they reached his bedroom, Frank immediately picked up on something on the bulletin board. It was a fabric square depicting two white horses with a red bird above them.

Turning to see what caught his interest, Tony said, "That's the Nigerian coat of arms." He flopped down onto his mostly-made bed. "My dad's parents migrated to Ellis Island from Abuja a couple years before they had him."

"Migrated?" Frank looked at him as he went to join him on the mattress. "So they came here…"

"On top of the ship," Tony supplied. "Not below it."

Frank reacted with, "Cool. So, where'd he meet your mom?"

"In Sicily when he was stationed there for six months. They met in like," Tony looked to recall, "May and got married in July."

Frank's eyes bulged a little. "Wow."

"Yep," Tony nodded.

Frank then asked, "Your dad's a corporal, right?"

"Yep," the other boy repeated. "Yours is a staff sergeant?"

"Yeah. He's in Japan right now."

"That far?" Tony raised both eyebrows. "When's the last time he was home?"

"Not since my brother recovered from leukemia early last year. He writers and remembers to call on special occasions. And he sends things… sometimes."

Tony propped himself up with his elbow, going thoughtful. "I still remember when my dad finished his last term over in Korea. I was just a little kid, but it still feels like yesterday."

Frank got down to his stomach. "That stuff is so crazy-scary. But at the same time, it's great knowing your old man really does something unbelievably worthwhile."

"A lot of kids don't get that. Of course, a lot of kids I know don't even have dads, let alone ones worthwhile." Tony glanced over at him. "I'm glad I met you, Frank. You actually understand."

Frank started to smile then Marcella came halfway into the room.

"I'm going to get started on my errands." She buttoned up her red sweater as she spoke. "You kids have fun but be sure to keep an eye on Lucia."

"Okay, Ma," Tony responded.

"There's chocolate cheesecake in the refrigerator." Marcella smiled Frank's way. "You make yourself at home."

Frank sat up at that. "Thanks a lot, Mrs. Aremu." He watched her walk out. "Your mom is so cool."

"Yeah." Tony rolled over lazily. "So… chocolate cheesecake?"

Grinning, Frank jumped up after him.

IIIIIII

With the combination of black silky fur and bright green eyes heading her way, Samantha immediately opened up her lap space to the creature. Sharing a nuzzle with him, she made sure he did not directly touch the sofa.

Coming down the stairs of the townhouse, Adrienne announced, "The taxi just pulled in."

A glowing smile instantly came to Samantha's ivory face as she rushed to her feet.

Less than a minute later, the keys rattled and the cheerful countenance waltzed in.

"Angie!" Samantha hurried towards her.

"Sammie!" Angel let off a chirp at the bulge in their hug and glanced down at the mewing figure the younger girl held. "Hey, Midnight. I guess I'm happy to see you, too."

Adrienne headed over to them. "You remain far too exquisite for your own good."

Angel shared a cheek to cheek kiss with her. "And you're too young and fine to be off the runway."

Adrienne squeezed her hands. "How missed you have been. Now," she tickled her nose, "go on and settle in. The three of us are going to have lunch then you and I have a great deal to get done in the name of hearts and stripes."

Angel smiled then raised one eyebrow. "You cooked?"

"I dialed," Adrienne countered, going towards the kitchen.

"Good. The body snatchers haven't been here yet." One hand gripping her bag, Angel kept an arm over Samantha as they started up for their room together.

When they made it there, Midnight jumped down and slid over into his toy mound. Sitting on the foot of Angel's bed, the girls observed and laughed at his antics of chasing jingling balls and attacking his plush mice with a vengeance.

Angel turned her head to study the leonine girl. "So, how you been doing, baby girl?"

Looking back at her, Samantha replied in her usual whispery voice, "Alright." She then brought up, "Daddy Cat?"

Feeling a lump in her chest, Angel used her fingers to comb away some of the long platinum blonde hair. "He couldn't make it this time. But he wanted me to let you know how much he's thinking about you. Come on." Angel went over to the younger girl's dresser. "Let's find something you can wear to the shoot later."

As Samantha moved across the room, Midnight attempted to bat at the long tail that poked out of the opening in her lounge pants.

IIIIIII

After all invited parties arrived at the Aremu household, Frank soon found himself on the loveseat sandwiched between different aged females. To his right sat Carmen, long hair in a ponytail over her shoulder and wearing light colored jeans with a purple sweater. She and Frank dared occasional glances every so often, only for their gazes to dart right back to the TV. Eight-year-old Lucia had found a very comfortable spot on Frank's left. The little girl looked like a much smaller version of Bianca with curls in a neat French braid. Mondo sat on the floor in front of the TV while Tony reclined stomach down across the arms of a soft chair.

As The Parent Trap came to a close, Mondo let off a yawn and raised his arms in a stretch. "Who's up for a ride?"

"I didn't bring my board," Frank said.

"That's okay." Tony went over to switch the living room lights back on. "You can borrow my old one." He looked over at his sister. "Go get your bike, Chicken Little."

On sneaker covered feet, Lucia went to fetch the pink and white machine from the mud room.

Tony went to his room and came back out with two skateboards and the same number of helmets. "I hope this fits you."

"Me, too." Frank strapped on the helmet and appeared relief when it didn't wobble or constrict his head.

Mondo joked, "'Fraid you'll mess up your pretty face?"

"No, that's something my school dad will do for me," Frank said. "He really tore into me this one time I didn't wear one. Of course, that was also because I hit my head and didn't tell him about it until I got dizzy."

Carmen applied a light knock to his forehead. "Good thing it's steel enforced."

Frank smiled at her.

When the four youths made it out front, Mondo shot forward first, performing a short jump with his skateboard. Tony went next and Frank gestured for the girls to pedal their bikes ahead of him. After adjusting to the unfamiliar skateboard, he rode after them.

Mondo acted out additional tricks, particularly one that involved him spinning a good dozen times around a light pole before letting go in a stylish burst. Tony leapt onto, rolled across, and jumped down again from a bench. Carmen came to a sharp stop as Frank maneuvered in a circle around her, a specific coyness about his expression. She hid her smile and flicked nonchalantly at her ponytail before continuing along.

"That was good, Frank," a captivated Lucia commented.

"Luce." Tony moved to bring her further on the sidewalk. "Stay away from the street." He then faced forward at Mondo's sudden stop. "What's wrong?"

The others saw what had captured his fascination. Across the street several people had gathered outside of a bank's yellow tape barrier.

"Is it a shooting?" Carmen squinted and leaned forward for closer observation.

"Nah, there'd be way more cops out here if that was the case," Frank reasoned. "They probably just got held up."

Mondo shook his head. "Let's go. Luce shouldn't be looking at this stuff."

Frank smiled and squatted over by her. "How 'bout some ice cream?"

"Yeah!" she agreed eagerly.

Frank followed them around the corner and down a few blocks to the nearest parlor. Tony and Mondo purchased a milkshake and sundae cup. Frank took the liberty of paying for Carmen's root beer float as well as a double scoop with fudge for Lucia.

"Thanks," the little girl accepted.

"No problem," Frank said.

Carmen stated softly to him, "You may be the sweetest thing in here."

Frank countered, "I think I'm looking at that."

Carmen smiled and went to sit in the middle of the booth Mondo and Tony had selected. Frank let Lucia climb in then sat beside her to keep her locked in. While they ate, he did not miss the younger child regarding him with sincere adoration in her eyes.

"Are you a ninth grader, too, Frank?"

Frank looked away from licking his cone. "Mmhmm. What grade are you in?"

"Second." Lucia then asked, "What's your favorite subject?"

"Science and history. What's yours?"

"Art and reading."

"That sounds like my sister Becky," Frank said. "You even look a little bit like her."

"Is she pretty?" Lucia wondered.

Frank replied, "Yep. I just said she was like you."

"You got competition," Mondo informed Carmen then whispered to Tony, "And you've got a new brother-in-law."

Carmen waved him off in humor while an unbothered Tony kept on eating and humming to himself.

They finished up after that and returned to the house to catch the start of a Twilight Zone episode.

An hour or so later with all sufficiently distracted by the glowing box before them, they hardly noticed the rattling keys until the large presence entered the room.

"Daddy," Lucia acknowledged as he clicked the lights on, going to him.

Frank looked up to see tall, dark bald giant of a man scoop the girl up with one arm. He released a hearty chuckle that seemed to fill the room or possibly the entire house.

"Hey, Dad," a zombified Tony greeted.

"Hi, Mr. Aremu," came from Mondo and Carmen.

Barine came closer, a friendly but curious expression in place. "And who have we here?"

Feeling the need to stand, Frank did so with one hand out. "Frank Tolbert, sir. It's really nice to meet you."

"Frank." Barine shook with him then looked to recall. "Ah yes, from the Westchester school."

"Yes, sir. I go to school there, but I'm from New York," he explained with importance.

"It's good to have you." Adjusting Lucia on one hip, Barine asked, "Tiger, you offered your friends something to eat? Something to drink?"

"Yes, Dad," Tony replied robotically.

"We're okay, Mr. Aremu," Carmen assured.

Barine looked at Frank again. "Tell me. Have you ever had African food?"

"A few things, sir," Frank responded. "At church gatherings, friends' houses, and things like that. I like it."

Barine formed a large smile. "Will you stay and eat with us this evening?"

Blinking at first, Frank glanced down at Tony who nodded encouragingly.

IIIIIII

Seated with eyes solely on her own reflection, Angel remained still while the makeup artists worked on everything from her neck up. The stylist directly behind her eased a wire hairbrush through her hair. Moving her eyes towards her left, Angel honed in on Christina Mackay in the chair right next to her. Slim and taller with defined features that practically secreted noble blood, the blue-eyed redhead acted as marble receiving a quality polishing job.

From the side and out of the way, Samantha watched the process. Wearing a long layered dress and scarves that covered most of her body and face, green tinted sunglasses masked her eyes.

"And there we are." The makeup artists stepped back.

"How are they?" Adrienne caught sight of the younger females and smiled in a very Cheshire way. "Magnificence." She came up behind Angel, squeezing her shoulders. "Hearts and Stripes was a stroke of genius. Your genius." The smile never left Angel's face. "Five minutes to fabulous, ladies." Ushering Samantha out under her arm, Adrienne walked out with the styling team.

"She's right you know." Christina spun in her chair to face her. "Hearts and Stripes is genius. You don't know how delighted I am to be able to work with others like myself."

"Thank you," Angel responded. "That means a lot. Now, you're Irish and…?"

"Egyptian on my mother's side," she filled in. "Far from the common combination to say the least. With skin like caramel and hair bright as a carrot, I always felt bizarre and out of place everywhere I went as a child."

"Nowhere to really fit," Angel stated knowingly.

"Exactly," Christina nodded. "It wasn't until my late teens that I truly embraced all of myself. I've fought against the one-drop rule ever since. Despite how many agents encouraged me to darken my hair, bleach my skin, and pass right along."

"One-drop and passing are officially out my window," Angel said. "The world is changing." She rethought that. "In fact, just look at us. We are the world."

Christina commended, "You are quite the exceptional young lady." A knock sounded on their dressing room. "Yes, come in."

The photographer with dark beard did so. "Alright, my loves, let's get into place. The others are waiting. I want to do a few black and white stripe pair shots with the two of you. Christ's Angel." He smiled widely. "Get it?"

Angel looked at Christian as she responded, "Love it."

IIIIIII

At the sound of furniture springing that did not at all spell good things, Raven walked into the second floor living room to see her that her children had made a trampoline out of the couch.

"Oh no." She waved a finger then aimed it at the floor. "Butts down, right now."

The boy and girl sat on the cushions in contrite fashion.

"Butts down, Mommy," Trav affirmed.

"If Uncle Charles had seen that, you'd be butts burning." She then responded to the ringing telephone and raised the nearby receiver to her ear. "Hello? Hi, love bug." She listened to the rapidly speaking boy on the other end. "Uh huh. Okay, okay, got it. Be still. I will ask." Leaving the receiver next to its base, Raven pointed at her two. "You stay still, too." She then headed upstairs, where she found Victor and Erik in their living room with several of the boys lounged around. "I hate to interrupt males in their natural habitat, but Frankie wants to know if he can stay for dinner at Tony's because "oh-God-Tony's-Dad-is-so-cool-and-the-other-kids-are-staying-please-please-please…" She considered the last part. "Please."

Sean peered away from his book and over to Erik. "I'll head over to pick him up right after. Let him have some fun."

Erik thought about it for several seconds then decided, "Alright. Tell him that'll be fine."

Raven headed out to deliver the favorable news.

Victor observed to Sean, "That's some good team playin', red."

Sean shrugged, "Got to rack up some birthday points," and returned to his book.

IIIIIII

Special gloves in place to keep food and fur as separated entities, Samantha began peeling away at the lettuce to begin her salad creation. Near her feet, Midnight nibbled on a bowlful of tuna with warm chicken broth.

Phone to her ear, Angel poured the dry macaroni into the boiling water. "Jen, do not talk to me about going natural. Look, you are Cambodian and white. All you have to do in the morning is shake your head out when you wake up." Angel laughed at what she heard next. "Well, if you want to fly out to New York and comb my hair every day, I'll think about it. Alright, talk to you later." She hung up, leaving the phone on top of the refrigerator as she cranked up the small stereo and shared a hip bump with Samantha.

Adrienne came in with a paper bag in her possession. "Fresh strawberries and Haagen-Dazs for an after dinner pick-me-up."

"Ooh," Samantha reacted as a glow entered her eyes.

Adrienne refrigerated the perishable contents then walked towards the counter to leaf through mail. She opened one plain envelope first.

Angel did not miss the contortion of rage that overtook the woman's face. "What's wrong, Dri?"

"It's nothing." Adrienne started to crumple the letter. "You girls get dressed for dinner. I'll keep an eye on things here."

However, Angel caught the large black letters that spelled out "Lover" and had one guess as to what the first word had to be. Snagging the paper from Adrienne, her suspicions were confirmed and her eyes magnified.

"Who sent this?' she wanted to know.

"Cowardly trash." Adrienne snatched and tore apart the letter. "Little do they know about my tracking capability. They will regret this, exactly like the others."

Angel stared at her in shaken disbelief. "Other people have called you that?"

Samantha cocked her head to the side. "I don't understand…"

"It's nothing, Samantha," Adrienne emphasized, hands going to Angel's shoulders. "It means absolutely nothing short of stupidity and spinelessness."

Angel remained unconvinced. "People are calling you that because of Hearts and Stripes Forever. Because of me."

Adrienne shook her head hard. "Because they are idiots. No one is going to get away with using that language or telling me how to run my agency. Hearts and Stripes will be forever, my dear. I promise you." She laid a gentle hand over the side of her face. "Go along now and get into a nice dress for dinner." Nodding slowly, Angel headed out after Samantha. "Angel?" The older girl looked back. "Don't mention any of this unpleasantness to Victor. I can take care of it and we don't need him getting excited."

Angel nodded again then continued out.

Letter now left in countless shredded pieces, Adrienne chucked it into the waste basket in such a motion that it startled Midnight. The cat licked the sides of his mouth and kept on eating.

IIIIIII

"The Aremus are too cool," Frank raved. "Their dad told us about his scouting trips in the second world war. That's almost nothing next to what he said about Korea. And oh man, Tony's mom is so nice. Her food is amazing. Tony's little sister is cute, but his big sister?" His eyes nearly rolled back. "Talk about a five-star knock-out."

Sean shook his head with a smile. "Starting to think you have a type, Frank-O."

"Glad you had so much fun," piped up Scott dryly. "Hope it was worth flooring out of my game."

"Scott, I always go to your games," Frank reminded. "Tony just wanted us to all hang out, that's all. He's only got sisters at home."

"Pardon the intrusion, gentlemen," Erik came through with Charles, "and though I'm aware it's Saturday, it is getting late."

Scott clicked off the TV and headed out.

Frank went after him. "You'll never believe how many medals Mr. Aremu has."

Sean chuckled at the way Scott rolled his head.

Charles laughed softly. "Our boys." He began picking up the stray gum and candy wrappers.

"Yes," Erik arranged the cushions back into place, "Frank certainly is fond of his war heroes…"

Charles stopped to look at him. "He's only a fanciful lad, Erik."

"True enough, but do you ever get the feeling that we're nothing more than the foreigners so privileged to set foot into this great land in his eyes?"

"Perhaps," Charles considered. "However, regardless of anything, that young man's true admiration lies with you. You know that, brother."

Erik dipped his head to that and kept up helping with the small scale clean-up.

IIIIIII

Greeted by a lick from Midnight's rough tongue, Samantha opened her eyes and stretched with a smile already in place. She hugged the cat with one arm and moved the covers out of the way to go over to Angel's bed.

Rolling over at the extra weight, Angel faced her. "Morning, baby girl."

"Good morning." Samantha nuzzled close to her then seemed to see something else in the older one's lovely face. "What's wrong, Angie?"

"Nothing. Why don't you feed Midnight?" Angel sat up. "I'm going to grab a shower."

"Okay." Getting to her feet again, Samantha made a clicking sound with her tongue that caused Midnight to follow her out of the room and down the stairs.

"Good morning, sweetheart." Adrienne departed the kitchen already dressed in a black skirt with off-white blouse, coffee mug in hand.

"Good morning, Mama cat."

Adrienne only shook her head in amusement at the name. She started to sit on the couch until a particularly hard knocking sounded at the front door. Going to see through the peep hole, she formed a sly smile.

"My, what an unusual wake-up call."

Samantha paused outside the kitchen then filled with elation at who Adrienne unlocked the door for. "Daddy cat!"

The girl up off the floor and into his arms in seconds, Victor spun in place with her. "You're some kind of sight for sore eyes, baby." He spared a glance at Adrienne. "And yeah, you too."

"Likewise," the redhead replied.

At the commotion, Angel came downstairs in her robe. "Victor? What are you doing here?"

"Thought I'd bring you back tonight myself." Standing Samantha up, Victor left an arm around her. "Better yet, thought we could spend the day. You know, the four of us."

Adrienne said, "I have nothing terribly pressing ahead."

Angel grinned. "Come on. Let's get breakfast going."

Samantha let go of Victor to go with her into the kitchen.

Victor's gaze now landed squarely on the remaining female in the room. "Hi."

"Hello," she sent back.

They moved in to close the space between them only for both of them to nearly trip on an abrupt wedge. At the meow, they glanced down to see an undisturbed Midnight staring up at them.

IIIIIII

"Walk you to class?"

At the voice, Cordelia shut her locker and found the face to go with the sound. "Okay, this is officially getting out of hand." She brought her notebook up to her chest. "You know you can't simply stroll the halls of a school you don't even go to this way, right?"

"Worrying your pretty head, are you? Fear not." Removing the ID card from his slacks pocket, Fabian showed it to her. "I believe I'm covered."

Cordelia took in the laminated card complete with picture. "Where in the world did you get this?"

"The office." Fabian put it away again, indicating the leather bag he carried with him. "Part of the new student package apparently."

Mouth opening wider and wider, Cordelia could only gape at first. "… Are you serious?"

"That would be an absolute." Fabian kept their gaze matched. "Perhaps you should walk me to class, though. I am the fresh meat on campus after all."

Remaining in a state of marveled disbelief for a few seconds longer, Cordelia reacted to the bell going off. "Come on." She gestured with her head up the hall.

Fabian caught up to her side and they proceeded across the tile floor together.