Rise or Fall

by Heiress Mellie

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

254. Chapter 254 Teenage Mutants on the Town

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter Two Hundred Fifty-Four

Author's Word: Hi, fam. I know this is a little late, but I had to take on a double shift while fighting the never-ending battle against toothache (but since mine is bi-polar, it's ended at the moment). Thanks as always for the feedback and messages. Please enjoy and review!

Golden hair bound in a quick up-do, the mutated freshman stood in line with the other girls dressed for exertion in t-shirts and knee-length shorts. To her chagrin, she found herself positioned directly behind Carmen. The Puerto Rican girl, having spotted the blonde out of the corner of her eye, flashed a closed-mouth smile at her. Samantha returned the insincere acknowledgement. She watched the others perform their routines, a series of cartwheels, right on down the row of mats. Samantha winced on behalf of a short, slightly pudgy brown-haired girl who tumbled hard at the halfway point.

As she walked by the line in clear humiliation, Samantha brushed a hand across her shoulder. "I liked your form, Whitney."

Her shoulders instantly perked and she replied, "Thanks," as she continued for the bench.

At Carmen's turn, she made a show of flexing before flipping sideways to begin the motions smoothly.

"Very nice, Carmen," Ms. Claremont praised, marking off on her clipboard. "You're up, Samantha."

Externally wearing a countenance of deep apprehension that matched her interior none whatsoever, Samantha readied herself. As if cutting through the air, her legs launched. She reached the end in seconds without slowing or the aide of her hands. Enthused murmurs spread throughout the other girls.

"My goodness, Samantha," Ms. Claremont marveled. "Have you taken gymnastics lessons?"

With a shake of her head, Samantha answered, "No, ma'am," and left it at that as she headed for the bench past her awed spectators. She could almost feel the glower Carmen aimed at her back, which only widened her smile.

Later in the day, the two joined their usual male crowd in the cafeteria.

"What's got your jaw tight?" Mondo asked of a scowling Frank.

"The older kids in my house are hitting up this really cool spot in Manhattan on Friday," Frank informed, poking at his sandwich. "But we're "too young" to go," he gestured towards himself and Samantha, "It's not fair."

Collin pointed out, "They're going with Fabian. We're not missing anything except watching him touch up his hair at every red light."

"They're the ones who're missing out this Friday," Tony stated with an air of mystery.

Frank looked to him. "What're you talking about, Ton'?"

The curly haired boy told them, "I'm throwing a party. My parents are putting out a huge spread; African and Italian. My cousin's band agreed to DJ- they're in college."

Carmen gaped. "Are you serious?"

"Oh, wow!" Mondo's eyes gleamed. "Man, we are about to turn-out all night."

Tony said playfully, "Or at least until I put you out." He regarded the Westchester natives. "Tell me you guys can come."

"Sure," Collin shrugged.

Samantha asked Frank, "Do you think they'll let us?"

"Oh, with the way the older kids are always ditching us?" Frank gripped his milk carton resolutely. "We're there, do or die."

IIIIIII

With black and yellow bandage dress pressed to her front, the Bostonian girl studied her reflection in the full-length mirror skeptically.

"Hmmmm… ugh," Cordelia frowned with uncertainty. "I don't know. This one screams more country club than night club to me."

Angel glanced over from trying on different pairs of sunglasses at the counter. "Try shorter sleeves. That's closer to the nighttime scene."

"You are the great expert in these matters." Cordelia returned to the rack.

"Yeah," Angel spun the eyewear holder, "but I'm glad it's going to be Seanie on display instead of me."

Stepping out from the dressing room stall, Maya asked, "So, what do you think?"

Turning in the direction of her voice, both her housemates had to perform double takes. The slim girl stood in a jade and cerulean patterned halter dress with swaying skirt that stopped quite a few inches above her knees. When Maya spun about to offer them the full view, they saw that it came partially backless as well.

"Spice-y, MVP." Coming over, Angel hugged her from behind and looked into the three mirrors with her.

Smiling, Maya saw the reflection of the near catatonic one. "Cordy?"

"Sorry, just…" Cordelia blinked many times. "Trying to figure out if we should probe the alien out of your body or perform an exorcism."

"Oh come on," Maya laughed. "It's not that off-the-wall."

"Don't let Sean see you in this," Angel advised. "Teasing him before his big night."

"He is going to see me in it," Maya informed, swishing the skirt a little. "At the club."

Rushing over, Cordelia inspected her forehead for fever. "Okay, at this point you're giving me a vicious heart murmur."

A wide-eyed Angel demanded, "Are you serious, girl?"

"Why not?" Maya responded simply. "We're seniors. It's time to branch out a little. Besides," she faced the nearest mirror again, "I like it."

"Lovely." Cordelia then brought up, "Too bad you're missing the votes of our European headmasters, Canadian security, and basically everyone who provides our safety, nourishment, and livelihood."

Angel asserted, "If Logan catches her in this, she's going to get the livelihood snatched right out of her."

Maya shrugged one shoulder. "He'll live." She started back for her stall. "I'm going to change. I'll be over by the shoes if you need me."

"So it's," Cordelia began counting off on her fingers, "probe, exorcism, and brain transplant."

Angel determined that Friday night would be far more exciting than originally intended.

IIIIIII

Stationed outside the library like a dutiful scout, Frank became alerted to Samantha's returning presence. She wore her hair in pigtails with pink ribbons and had on a floral dress.

"Is this good?"

"Perfect," Frank responded, taking her by the hand. "Remember to smile as big as you can."

As he led them inside, Samantha developed a grin quite possibly capable of eclipsing a full moon.

"Hi, everybody," she warmly greeted the gathered instructors.

"Sorry to interrupt," Frank added.

"Oh no, you're fine," Charles dismissed. "Did you need something?"

"Or want something?" a knowing Erik put forth.

While Samantha went around to Victor's chair to lean on him, Frank explained, "We just want to go over to Tony's house on Friday. He's having a get-together."

Nothing his choice of words, Emma repeated, "A get-together?"

Kayla asked, "That wouldn't happen to translate into study group would it?"

Hank stated, "I believe it translates into "oh-my-God, college band" party." At Frank's face, the scientist smirked. "A number of your classmates were buzzing about it."

Charles appeared greatly dissatisfied. "A party for ninth-graders with college students in attendance?"

"College students?" Alex feigned disgust. "Those low lives?"

"Higher education seekers," Raven remarked. "Filth, all of 'em."

"It's not what you think," Frank urged. "It's Tony's older cousin's band. They just agreed to play for us."

"Please," Samantha nuzzled cheeks with Victor, "may we go?"

The security man reached up to coil one of her pigtails around his finger. "His folks goin' to be home?"

"Yep," Frank answered. "Just out of our way in their room."

Logan asked, "Any of these little boppers plan on sneakin' in booze, smokes, or anything else I use on a daily basis?"

"Are you kidding?" Frank scoffed. "The Aremus don't play that. Even if his parents weren't home, Tony'd kick out anybody who tried to bring that stuff into his place."

Sharing a brief look with Erik, Charles summoned the lad with two crooked fingers. "Come here, Frank." He came to stand by him and Charles took him by the wrists to peer into the light brown eyes. "While we are delighted that Tony is such a fine friend, there is something we need to hear from you straight out."

Standing, Erik came near to touch the boy's shoulder. "Can we trust you, boychick?"

Eyes and chest heavy, Frank nodded. "Yes, sirs. I promise not to let you down this time."

Raven got to her feet at that. "We know, Frankie. That's all ancient history now." She looked between her brothers. "Right?"

Charles bobbed his head. "Right."

"We're trusting you." Erik walked a few paces to tap Samantha's chin. "Both of you."

The girl's irises lit up. "Oh thank you!"

"Thanks a lot!" Frank ran around to hug the shapeshifter. "Thanks a ton, Rae!"

Raven squeezed him back. "We can even drop you guys off on the way to the club."

Frank looked up at her. "Rae, I love you more than sun and oxygen, but we seriously can't be seen with a teacher." He glanced Hank's way. "No offense."

Hank said, "My mother used to call me Henry in front of my friends. Believe me, I understand."

"Since Erik has Temple, I can drop you off and pick you up," Charles offered.

"Thanks, Charles, but we were kind of hoping that my completely amazing big brother," Frank squatted by Alex's chair, giving him heartfelt eyes, "could do it. I mean, you're not going out with the others, right? What else have you got to do?"
"Apparently what I do best on weekends," Alex replied dryly. "Study and chauffer my twerpy brothers. I'll hang around a library close by until they're done pinning the tail on the donkey or whatever."

"Thank you, Alex," Samantha beamed. "All the girls in my class are going to squeal. They think you're just a dream."

"Really?" Alex carried a self-satisfied gleam now. "Guess it wouldn't kill me to be the highlight of their pimple-popping week."

"Marlon Blondo, folks," remarked Logan.

IIIIIII

Making their way across the large but empty park in a pace that showed no sign of a hurry on either of their parts, Leon inquired, "Practice test results come in yet?"

Melissa answered, "Maybe kinda sorta this afternoon."

"How short of a bus are we talking here? Or should we hitch you to a bull powered plow?"

Melissa none-too-gently stepped down on his boot with the tip of hers. "Why didn't you tell me you got a gig as a plow puller?"

Leon stopped to face her fully. "So?"

"So… medium bus should get the job done. Thought I'd be way more behind."

Non-mutated ability to read her firing up, Leon nudged, "So now what's the problem? Too overwhelming?"

"Yeah," she admitted, "but here's the really weird part. When I first saw them, I wanted to tell Mrs. Howlett then I didn't- like I was worried about falling short of her standards…what the hell?"

"You're talking to a guy whose insides start rotting at just the thought of letting my dad, brother, or aunt down." Leon then tacked on, "Guess you got to throw my uncle in there, too."

"But they are actually your team," Melissa rationalized. "Your family and all that. I can handle whatever Estevan needs done, but worrying about gaining or losing someone's approval? That's- that's not me."

Remaining in even place until she finished speaking, Leon said, "Kayla cares about you. You care about her- yeah you do. Your boyfriend is an intellectually ostentatious screwball who sleeps in Superman pajama pants. We're all stuck. Deal with it."

Melissa eyed him straight-faced. "You want to explain that Wonder Woman button pinned to your backpack?"

"She is a symbol of beauty, equality, and love," Leon informed. "And also, she came along with the others in the package."

Soon after, they left the park and mounted Leon's motorcycle again.

Dropped off down the street, Melissa rang out, "Don't do anything stupid without me," and headed for the manor.

"Melissa, is that you?" called Estevan.

"One and only- thank God." Jamming her keys into her coat pocket, she followed his voice into the living room where he stood in the doorway. "What's going on?"

"I found a gift for you on our doorstop."

When he stepped aside, Melissa beheld Anne and the dark haired older girl seated next to her.

IIIIIII

At the youth sprawled on the sofa with fat textbook all but plastered to his eyeballs, Erik noted, "Still at it, boychick?"

Alex nodded, stretching his neck to rid himself of a minor kink. "Best time of day for studying, outside of when the babies are napping." When his father laid a hand across his forehead, his skin positively absorbed the comfort.

"Alex, be honest with me," Erik requested, lowering a little towards his current elevation. "You're taking your medicine? Blood pressure is steady?"

"I'm only at pre-hype accord to Hank." Alex looked at him directly. "Why, did he say something? Do I need to go under the knife? Can I get out of this quiz tomorrow?"

"No such luck and bite your tongue." Erik dragged a hand through his blonde hair. "I'm out of the house so often and you're left here with responsibilities by the multitudes. Though I admire the way you handle it all, I don't want you neglecting yourself. Why don't you go to hear Seanie's performance after you drop off Frank and Samantha?"

"Hank can keep a good enough eye on them."

"I don't mean to play chaperone," Erik clarified. "I mean to have a little fun. Enjoy yourself."

"I appreciate the thought, Dad, really." Alex sat up against the couch's arm better. "But Sean-Maya, Hank-Raven, Cordy-Fabian, Angel-Ben… not a lot of room for singles on Noah's Ark."

"I know," Erik certainly sympathized. "Even at Temple, it seems as if someone is constantly ready to introduce me to a daughter-sister-cousin."

Alex claimed, "They just want to unload them on a suave stud like you."

Erik pecked him at the hairline. "You keep Papa's heart strong, boychick."

Alex smiled softly. "Can you believe Lee's dating Melissa? I'm happy for him and all, but after what I've seen with chicks, I kind of want to lock him up inside a playpen."

"We are in agreement then," Erik concurred. "Though Emma did mention something to me about "cutting off all of Melissa's pretty hair" should she harm him."

Alex bobbed his head with approval, "Good," and raised his book again.

IIIIIII

Seated on opposite ends of the female Acolyte's bed, the pairs of brown eyes faced each other.

"You ran away?" Melissa surmised.

"More like flew away," Brenda corrected. "After my health improved and my parents decided the X-Men no longer useful or something, they moved us halfway across the state. I thought I was okay with it, but I wasn't even fooling myself. Everywhere I went, I couldn't get it out of my head that if I moved too fast some guys in a truck could grab me. Starve me, make me their guinea pig, tie me down and have some guy…"
Melissa laid a hand on her knee. "Hey, it's okay."

"No." Brenda shook her head, her eyes darkening. "It's not okay. What they did isn't okay. Even though Estevan took care of Ignacio, I never want to feel helpless like that again. That's why I came back here."

"Are you sure you didn't make a wrong turn?" Melissa half-joked. "I thought you were geared up to be an X-Man."

"I was and don't get me wrong, the X-Men are amazing." Brenda then explained, "But they don't have you. I want to learn from you, Melissa. To fight like you, stay strong the way you do."

The older female asserted, "I am not strong. My head's just messed up."

"So is mine," Brenda emphasized. "After what they did. And you may not feel strong, but you are. You and Leon would've done anything to get us out of that facility. Please- I really want your help."

With a sigh, Melissa lingered in thought a moment. "You're sure you want to stay?"

Brenda nodded. "Estevan said Anne can deal with my parents. I know I'm late getting into this semester, but maybe Maya will be up for helping me again."

"That's a safe bet," Melissa guaranteed. "And alrighty." She moved to stand. "Let's snag a room for you."

Following her out of the room and despite the extreme difficulty of the day, Brenda found herself in awe of the large house. Though it did not have quite the massive majesty of the Xavier mansion, it still reminded her of something out of a Victorian novel.

IIIIIII

Waiting for the tenth graders to completely clear the room, the blonde girl entered and approached the largest desk.

"Mr. Duval," she addressed the balding gentleman with tan skin, "you wrote that you wanted to see me." Samantha held up the paper with the notation written beside the grade.

"Ah, yes. I had no time when your class let out earlier because I had to rush off to my department meeting." Getting down to the matter at hand, his expression grew darkly grim. "Are you aware you made the lowest grade in class on this assignment?"

Eyes flashing with surprise then sadness, she answered with a faint, "No…"

Taking the paper, Mr. Duval flipped through his remarks spelled out in bleeding red ink. "Your references and citations are mediocre at best and your content shows a lack of interest in the subject matter. It's clear you wrote this with only the objective to pass."

"But I did pass," Samantha reasoned.

"Hardly," the man retorted. "Miss Ferguson, I want you to return this back to me tomorrow," he handed her back the paper, "signed by your guardians."

Pupils enlarging and jaw plunging, Samantha pointed out desperately, "But Mr. Duval, I didn't fail it. I didn't even get a D."

He regarded her with lackluster. "Miss Ferguson, in case you are unaware, this is the Honors Program. While I cannot speak for the other faculty members, in my classroom, a C minus is not cause for a slap on the back but a firm clout upside the head. Now you are to return this to me at the start of class tomorrow with signature. Am I understood?"

"Yes, sir," came her whispered reply. "I'm really sorry."

"If you want to express real regret, start applying the effort that got you into this program," Mr. Duval emphasized. "A sharp mind is nothing without hard work."

"Yes, Mr. Duval." With a bob of her head, she proceeded out.

So lost in the one-way portal of her own thoughts, her senses failed to recognize her name and she jumped at the hand on her shoulder.

The freckled boy threw up his arms apologetically. "Sorry, sorry."

"Collin," she sighed.

"Hey," bothered by her completely abnormal lack of radiant smile, he tipped her chin up, "you okay? You and Carmen going at it?"

"It's not her. It's this." Samantha showed him her grade. "Mr. Duval says I have to have it signed and look at all the comments he wrote."

Collin shook his head. "What is with these uptight wads and red?"

"I made the lowest grade out of the whole class. I'm going to be in so much trouble. And Tony's party is Friday…"

"Whoa, whoa, easy," Collin soothed. "Tell you what. Bring me something with your aunt or uncle's signature on it and I can sign it for you."

As if discovering water in a barren wasteland, her eyes filled with elation. "You can?"

"After all the notes I've signed for my kid brother?" He scoffed dismissively. "Please, I can copy in my sleep."

Samantha threw arms around him. "Oh thank you, Collin!" She pulled back upon realizing, "I better go meet the others before someone comes looking for me." She hastily crammed her paper away in her bag.

"Wait up. Not trying to hear it from Fabian, either." Collin hurried to walk alongside her.

IIIIIII

Upon the arrival of the burly veteran who came for their teacher every afternoon, several of the precocious youths gathered by the front windows. Seeing the couple unload from an unusual and spacious van, the boys made their way out.

They offered various greetings of, "Hi, Wolverine," "Hey, Wolverine," "Hiya!"

"How you doin' fellas?" the man returned, lifting two crates with ease.

"Wow, Mrs. Howlett." One of the tall, husky boys approached the vehicle to take a big box. "Are these even more books?"

"A few back orders," Kayla answered. "It's mostly the new typewriters."

"Typewriters?" A Hispanic teen echoed in disbelief. "Man, we're higher class than all the public libraries."

"Mrs. Howlett," the caramel skinned boy with glasses addressed, "did the wildlife books come?"

"I believe so." Kayla then laughed when the child went pawing at one box. "Walter, honey, let's get these things into our library first. And promise me you won't sneak out of bed to read again. I caught that yawning a few times."

"I promise," he agreed and accepted a small package of papers she handed him.

Logan had no need to kick the door open as one of the girl's took the liberty of holding it for him.

He gave a charming smile to the gathering of fluttering eyelashes. "Hello, ladies."

"Hello," they chorused.

One about kindergarten age asked as well-mannered as she could, "Would you care for some coffee, Wolverine?"

An older one piped up, "I'll get it. The little kids can't mess with hot stuff."

The smaller girl said matter-of-factly, "Then I'll get him some cookies."

"Thanks, dolls," the amused man called after the swarm hurrying for the kitchen.

When he reached the second floor and the spacious common room his wife had designated as the library, Logan ripped the crates open and began stacking the contents. The younger males arrived shortly and helped in organizing as well as arranging the typewriters.

"Hey!" Noticing the way Walter attempted to add a book to a shelf well over his head, Logan wound an arm around his middle. He seated him in the nearest chair. "Take a load off, muscles."

The boy quickly became placated at the textbook handed to him with a depiction of gray wolves on the cover.

IIIIIII

Flipping a soft football into the air and catching it with one hand while he spoke into the receiver, Leon asked, "Is she okay? She seemed to drop off the face of the earth."

From her end, Melissa replied, "Credit that one to her parents having their fingers jammed up their ears- or more likely, their asses."

"So, did Anne…?"

"Make mashed potatoes of their minds?" Melissa supplied. "Not exactly, but she got the job done. What I don't get is Brenda so geared up to train with me."

"We're going to have to revisit that short bus issue I see. Melissa," Leon arched back in his chair, simply holding the football now, "you have to see the effect you have on these girls- Anne, Brenda, Maya- you're a ferocious force to them."

"Freaking green kids," she sighed heavily, "make no sense."

Finding himself in sudden possession of a lapful of Cody, Leon responded, "I think I know what you mean. I'll talk to you later."

"You do that."

When they hung up, Cody grinned mischievously at the older mutant. "You were talkin' to Melissa. I heard her voice."

Hoisting him up by his armpits, Leon lightly knocked foreheads with him. "I somehow bet you did."

Cody laughed at the teenager gingerly shaking him next. "It's cool, though. Melissa's real outta sight. She's sorta like an angel- popping up when you need her, especially for my mama."

Though he knew his girlfriend would have a wealth of comments about that opinion, Leon still agreed, "I think you're right. I also think you need to get your coat on." He stood the boy with a swift tap to his bottom. "Let's go on a run before we hit the gym."

Swiping the football from him with an impish gleam, Cody scuttled off for the front of the mansion.

IIIIIII

Back pressed against her locker, the vexation filled girl stared up at the ceiling until the overhead lights bothered her eyes too much.

Attention on the task before him, Collin said, "These old checks are just the ticket."

"I got lucky," handed folded behind her back, Samantha turned to him, "my aunt and uncle didn't get home until dinnertime last night."

"And presto, change-o." Collin presented her with the paper, complete with dual Xavier signatures.

Samantha had to keep from screaming with glee. "You did it, you did it!" She almost tackled him in an embrace. "Thank you, Collin."

The redhead smiled widely. "Hey, any time. But I'll tell you," stepping apart, they smiled at each other, "you're beyond lucky. Never seen a kid get out of jams the way you do. You got more lives than any cat."

Samantha said in turn, "And you come with more wishes than a genie."

Collin focused in on her somewhat unconsciously. "Hey, Sam, do you think maybe…?"

She frowned at the way he trailed. "What?"

"That the rest of the gang's wondering what's up with us," he concluded. "Let's get to lunch."

Samantha took the time to secure her paper to her English folder and even kissed it before latching her locker again.

IIIIIII

Amazed by the deserted lounge, Becky wondered, "Where's everybody else?"

"Sean's been practicing his guitar ever since he won that amateur spot for Friday." Scott walked in after her. "Alex and Lee are probably studying and the girls are either figuring out who's cooking or giggling over their boyfriends."

"Probably. It feels weird being in here so much now." Becky looked about the space designed by her aunt. "I don't even feel like a teenager."

"It'll kick in soon," Scott assured. "Take it from an experienced pro like me who's been at the game five whole months now." He took great delight in receiving a giggle for himself out of her.

"What's happening, you guys?" Frank acknowledged, coming in with Samantha. "Alright, we've got a good thing going." He picked up a pool stick. "Let's play in doubles. Scott, you can have my sister."
Becky gave him a sardonic look. "What are you, selling me?"

"Nope," he smirked, "just lending you out."

Becky accepted one of the lengthy sticks from her given partner. "I'm not really good at pool."

"Neither am I," admitted Samantha.

"Oh, don't worry," Scott bolstered and Frank promptly tacked on, "We'll help you out."

Before getting the colorful balls situated, the boys showed the novice girls how to lean over the table and line the cues. Scott placed one hand over Becky's and eased her shoulder with the other. Frank wound an arm around Samantha, running fingers along her wrist.

Large frame taking over the doorway, Victor's clearing of throat came off as something of a growl, capturing the quad's attention. "Sorry to interrupt, but," he held up summoning fingers, "I need to borrow you."

With the man's hand aimed his direction, Frank flustered, "What'd I do?"

"Not you, nightlight." He zeroed in on the female at his side.

Pointing to her shirt front, Samantha's voice came out in a mew. "Me?"

"Yes you, little girl cat," Victor confirmed.

Frank moved in front of her defensively. "Hey, what'd she do?"

Victor sent him a glower the led to macho deflation. "I don't believe I was speaking to Eye," he glanced over at Scott, "or Scream. And Becky, keep your powers to yourself."

Scott waved his hands in a 'no trouble' motion and Becky only stood with swelled green eyes of clear confusion.

Making her way for the adult feline mutant, Samantha gazed up at him imploringly.

"Eh." Victor tapped her lips before she could speak, "Downstairs," and escorted her out and down.

Seeing them nearing the study, Samantha only hoped Victor did not pick up her rapidly growing heartbeat. Inside the office, Emma sat on the edge of her husband's desk with arms crossed while the Professor himself resided behind the wide wooden surface.

"Auntie," Samantha addressed pleasantly, "Uncle."
"Niece," Emma returned evenly.

"Samantha, my dear," Charles began, "I had quite the interesting conversation with Hank only minutes ago. He and Mr. Duval had a friendly chat in the teacher's lounge today and the subject of your most recent paper came up. Despite our instructor meeting yesterday, Hank hadn't heard a word about it. Oddly enough, neither had your aunt or myself." The man's countenance shifted most dourly, "So it's an absolute wonder how both our signatures wound up on your paper."
Though her mouth opened, the only word to come out for Samantha consisted of, "I…"

"You can stop searching for a lie," Emma informed her. "Your mind is positively screaming at us. Now, did you create this forgery or did one of the other children do it for you?"

"No, not them," Samantha hastened to answer. "It was a friend from school."

Sensing enough truth in that claim, Charles moved on to, "Why did you do it? You could have spoken to any one of us- Victor, Logan, Kayla, Alex."

"I-I'm sorry," the girl stammered. "I was- I was so confused and I didn't know it was bad to do. I didn't understand—"

"Samantha," Charles cut in sharply but calmly, "stop it. Stop insulting everyone in this room, including yourself, by pretending to be what we all know you are not. While we all know you suffered certain delays, you are by no means ignorant and acting otherwise will not excuse your actions."

"Darling," Emma spoke next, "if ever you are having trouble in school, you only need to seek us out. No matter how tired or busy we may seem, you children are our priority."

Clutching her shoulders from behind, Victor piped up, "Middle of the night, baby, you know me and Lo' are right downstairs."

With a slow nod, Samantha said, "I'm really sorry. I promise to come to you from now on and I'll do better in class."

Charles stated, "You're going to get a head start on that promise. For the entirety of this weekend, you're to stay inside and study- including Friday."

"Friday?" Samantha shook her head in disbelief. "But I have to go to Tony's party."

Resolve in place, Charles responded, "I'm sorry, love, but when you misbehave, you have to face the consequences. You will not be going to the party."

Samantha whipped her head back urgently. "Daddy."

Despite the petition ringing triumph in his ears, Victor only cupped her chin. "Sorry, baby, but it's their names you copied. And as any one of the kids around here will tell ya, I don't fool around when it comes to school, either."

"I don't believe this!" Shooting an accusatory glare at the telepaths, she spat, "I knew it! I knew you didn't really love me! You'd never do this to your Princess Becky!"

Gripping his patience as he stood, Charles said, "Samantha, you need to calm down this instant. Not one word of that is true."

"Don't touch me!" Samantha shouted when Emma came around to her. "Stay away from me! Just stay away!" Tears erupting along with her, she fled the room.

"Victor," Emma touched his arm when he moved to go after her, "don't. There is nothing any of us can say while she's like this. We're all the enemy this time."

A dismayed Charles sank back into his chair, fingers going to fight the throbbing he felt developing in his temples.

IIIIIII

After tucking in his boys and spending ten minutes soothing a highly fussy Mira, Logan prepped for his upcoming shift. Granted, a sizable portion of that prep included dawdling about in bed with Kayla for a half an hour. When he made it out to the hall, he met up with his brother close to the stairs.

Noticing the bakery box the tall one carried, Logan asked, "Donut bribe a bust?"

"Like you wouldn't believe," Victor came back with. "Angel says she's been asleep for over an hour. Didn't mess with a crumb of her dinner."

"Ah, let her cool down," Logan dismissed. "She'll probably be back to her glowin' self in the morning. Girls around here don't stay steamed up for long."

"We're not talking about the others here, Lo'." Victor headed into the basement level with him. "Maya just came pre-packaged with that level head, Angie owns up when she's wrong, even when she's ticked Cordy's never this hard to get through, and you know a few words from Erik is all Becky needs."

"Oh yeah, she's suddenly in the mood to rinse out their bathroom sink when he's around," Logan the need to insert.

"Which reminds me," Victor settled into his chair in Eye Spy, "maybe I let Sam play possum for too long. Charles was right earlier- she worked that confused angle too long."

"Maybe," Logan retrieved a beer from the tiny refrigerator before sitting, "but it's no lie she still has a lot to get used to around here. Includin' the downside of havin' people to look after ya; muck up, you got to face up." Though he did silently prove grateful for Maya's particular pre-packaging.

IIIIIII

"I really wish you would have told us about this," Becky vexed, seated by the fuming blonde girl at the vanity. "Everyone knows if you have school problems, you have to find my papa or Auntie Em when Uncle Charles isn't around her."

"Yeah," Joey concurred, draped across the side of Samantha's bed, eying them. "My dad is great about a lot of stuff, but school? You're lucky your bum's intact. Uncle Erik always tries to work something out for you."

Becky said humorously, "We have to make you flash cards for this family."

Lowering her hairbrush, Samantha stared icily at her reflection. "Maybe I don't want to be in this family anymore."

Joey raised his head in a taken aback scowl. "Sammie…"

Becky put a comforting hand to her upper back. "You don't mean that. Just—"

A heavy but delicate knock sounded at the door. "Samantha, darling."

At no reaction from the female blonde, Joey rolled off the bed to answer for the English gentleman. "Morning, Daddy."

Charles caressed his cheek with one hand, but addressed Becky. "Go on down to the breakfast table, you two. I don't have very much time this morning and I need to speak to Samantha."

"Yes, Uncle Charles." Becky stood, going to guide the boy in the room by the shoulders. "Come on, Joey."

Once left with the Professor, Samantha avoided his eyes by going to check the contents of her school bag.

Closing the door, Charles started, "I know you're very upset with me, love—"

Hands still, she snapped, "Don't call me that!" She forcefully shoved in her history book. "You don't love me. Not even a bit."

"Don't say that," Charles near ordered, going to sit by the head of her bed. "Of course I love you." He gingerly gripped one of her wrists. "As terrible as it feels, I would not bother punishing you if I didn't. Do you really think I enjoy seeing you unhappy?"

Snatching her hand away, she uttered, "Humph," and faced the nearest window to turn her back to him.

Inhaling very deeply through, his nostrils, Charles returned to his feet. "It is evident we are not going to get anywhere with my limited time this morning. Go on down and have your breakfast."

"I'm not hungry."

"You didn't eat a thing last night. I will not have you making yourself sick. Even if it's something small, I want you to eat. Samantha?" Cordiality now thrown to the wayside, Charles stepped up closer to take her by the shoulder. "Young lady, I know you hear me." Glancing to the right, he took hold of the thick wooden tool on the vanity. "Perhaps I need to show you that this brush can straighten out much more than your hair."

Livid eyes widening, her head drooped. "… I will eat."

"Good. I will be checking with Alex later to make sure." Despite her clearly still present anger, Charles tenderly tugged on a portion of her hair. "Have a good day, sweetheart. I love you." Not remotely expecting even a shrug of a reply, he took his leave of her.

Tossing on the strap of her bag, Samantha stalked from the room.

"Sam, wait up."

Veering around, she wore her first smile in countless hours. "Frank."

"Hey." He immediately brought her to him in a hug. "I'm so sorry this happened. You okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine," she decided, pulling back to regard him warmly. "I'm only sorry we're in this mess."

A slow, uncomfortable frown building, Frank's mouth almost went dry as he spoke. "Sam, I'm going to find a good excuse to tell the guys for you, but I have to go tomorrow."

Feeling everything around her shatter, Samantha's eyes glossed. "You're… you're going without me?"

"This is Tony's first high school party and it means a lot to him. It's bad enough one of his friends can't go. I have to be there."

"You…" Fire igniting in her brown orbs, she shoved him away from her with both hands. "You're going to be with her- Carmen!"

Having to steady his balance, Frank claimed, "Whoa, Sam, you're out of line. That is not true."

"Yes, it is." Seething, she jabbed a claw at him. "Just go, Frank, go! Be with her. I hope you choke to death on each other's tongues!" She moved to thunder downstairs at an immeasurable speed.

Unable to believe what had just occurred, Frank backed against a wall to keep from falling over.

IIIIIII

Making his way just outside the music studio, the metal wielder observed Trick's protégé fully immersed in his practice. Unable to tell where the teen's fingertips ended and the helpless strings began, the redhead appeared fused to the instrument.

Stopping after nearly a minute, Sean released a wild, "Wooooooo!" He then noticed the elder and eyes turned into those of a small child's. "Um, sorry… too loud?"

"Too sensational." Erik strolled in, using the piano bench for a chair. "I can see why you won. Perhaps when you join me in the geriatrics society, I'll have the chance to hear you perform live."

"Hey," Sean walked over, dipping to bonk heads with him, "no fair using your sacred Yiddish guilt powers on me, Uncle Erik."

"What do you think you're doing?" the Headmaster reacted to the youth removing his guitar. "Don't you want to rehearse some more?"

Sean indicated the clock. "What about training?"

"What do you think we're doing? Go on." Erik leaned back comfortably. "Play."

Forming a big smile, Sean restarted in full zealousness on the strings.

IIIIIII

Burgundy and black striped dress suspended wrinkle free from a hanger, Angel looked away from the closet to the dejected one in dreary gray lounge clothes. Stretched in bed with eyes staring into her assigned short stories, the girl seemed only placated by the black cat snuggling her ankles.

"Sammie," going around, Angel sat close to her, "you know it's not a big deal if I don't go see Sean tonight. Ben and the others will still be there. I can stay home and we could sneak over and watch movies in the lounge. I'll take the fall if we get busted."

Rising up, Samantha eyed her in a near trance. "You'd stay home for me? You've been talking about this all week."

Angel only shrugged flippantly. "So what? Do you know how long I talked about wanting a sister?"

A nearly tearful Samantha arched forward to capture her in a hug. "You're the best one in the whole world… but it's okay. Go be with Ben- at least he's a good guy."

"Well, you deserve a great guy," Angel stated, stroking her hair adoringly. "Now, come on. At least help me get my face on. Please, please."

Sincere smile in place, Samantha got up to help her collect the necessary cosmetics.

IIIIIII

The living room bustled with the excited young ones gathered. Cordelia wore black, low-rise jeans with a yellow tank top and leather blazer. Fabian had on a mustard gold shirt with leather jacket as well as pants. Raven, in blonde guise, had on a red V-neck top and steel gray skirt with tights. Hank had decided on medium blue leisure attire with a white shirt. Chatting with Angel on the loveseat, Ben wore dark blue jeans with denim jacket and a black turtleneck. The excited reactions truly resulted from Sean's entrance. In addition to his guitar case, he also sported black slacks, an untucked button-down royal blue shirt, his brown suede jacket, and circular sunglasses.

"You are hot," Raven proclaimed.

"At least lukewarm," commented Cordelia.

"Hm," Fabian lifted his own shades, "well, he has worn worse…"

"Where's Maya?" Hank wondered.

Sean explained, "She still needs a minute."

"Now, remember, Hank," Charles spoke, "no later than one for this lot."

"It's a teen club, Charles," the scientist reminded. "They shut down at eleven. I'm only getting in by "tipping" the bouncer."

"One AM," Cordelia marveled then explained to Fabian, "this is the curfew of miracles around here."

"I believe it." Fabian also saw no need to bring up his own midnight time limit when out alone on weekends.

Erik asked of Ben, "Your mother and father are alright with such a late hour?"

"Oh, they really don't mind so long as I call and everything." Ben immediate reassured, "But it's not because they're that cool. I'm just that square."

Angel smiled at that and leaned closer on his shoulder.

Taking Charles' arm, Emma encouraged, "Have fun, my lovelies."

"Be safe," added the Professor on their way out.

"Knock 'em dead." Erik patted Sean on the arm. "Literally if necessary."

Sean grinned secretively after the man.

A minute later, Raven reacted to the one who finally joined them. "There… you are."

Winter coat unbuttoned, they all received a clear view of Maya's chosen attire. "Sorry to keep everyone waiting." She smiled up at the guitar wielder. "Especially you."

Somehow finding his words, Sean guaranteed, "Oh- oh, you're worth it. Don't worry."

"Hell is going to be frightfully chilly tonight," determined Cordelia.

"As will she," Fabian added wryly.

"Ahem." Hank approached his young friend. "Maya, this dress-"

"Is nothing on some of those pieces Raven's gone out in on our double dates." Maya eyed him squarely. "Or do you carry a different rulebook for your wife?"

"Hank," Raven placed a strong grip on his heavy arm, "we are not fighting tonight. Especially not over clothes. This isn't school- at ease."

With a sigh, Hank decided, "Let's go. Sean can't be late after all."

Fabian stepped back while extending a cordial arm. "Ladies."

The females proceeded ahead of them to the garage.

"Your legs do love that dress, Maya," Angel complimented.

"Thank you," the thinner girl beamed. "It's definitely time to branch out."

Cordelia smirked, "Especially with Logan off to retrieve Kayla…"

Maya flipped her long hair to that.

IIIIIII

Thirty minutes in and not a word from his passenger signaled some type of imbalance in the universe to the blonde. Taking in the silent one with fixation on the side window, Alex again noted the mostly black ensemble.

"You channeling Dad or did Scott finally make a Batman convert out of you?"

"Just drive."

"Or what, I'm fired?" Growing serious now, Alex said, "Look, Frankenstein, call me crazy, but you don't seem like the hyper kid you were earlier this week for this thing."

Frank folded his arms forlornly. "Things change."

"Tell me about it," Alex solemnly concurred. "So, is it true? You going after Carmen again?"

"No," Frank replied in frustration. "And what do you care, anyway? You on Sam's side?"

"I'm on the side of my kid brothers not getting hurt," answered Alex matter-of-factly. "I know Carmen's part of your genius club, but as soon as she said she wasn't trying to go steady, you latched onto Sam. But if I'm being honest, it seems like all this time, she's just been convenient for you. Yet another pretty face."

Though initially appearing ready to erupt with fury, Frank lowered in his seat. "I don't know, okay? Thinking about my mom, messing with those stupid drugs… nothing's clear to me anymore."

Alex slowed the car a little. "I know what you're going through, Frank. It used to be I see a cute girl and go nuts. I didn't want to admit it to anyone, but Holly was… just everything- gorgeous, fun, exciting. Then I had to go and try to make it work with safe "normal" Kerstin. We both know how that turned out."

"Yeah," Frank whispered.

"I don't know every detail of what you're thinking," Alex admitted. "But whether you like Carmen, Sam, or even if you're not totally over Jasmine yet, don't toy with these girls. It's only going to be a world of pain for everybody and I don't want that for you, Frank."

Frank stared forward absently. "I don't know what to do, Alex…"

Parking in front of a convenience store, Alex looked at him fully. "Are you sure you still want to go? We could grab some burgers, go bowling- pretend the pins are chicks we know."

Frank managed an amused smile. "No, really. I don't want to let Tony down. But do you think you could pick me up an hour sooner? I don't want to stick around long."

With a pat to his thigh, Alex promised, "You got it," and started the sedan again.

IIIIIII

Startled by a sudden thump, Samantha relaxed at discovering it to be nothing more than a particularly harsh wind on her window pane. Closing her robe tighter, she left her desk to draw in the lavender curtains. The materialization of the figure beyond the glass stilled her hands and made her gasp.

"Hey," Collin banged before she could scream, "it's me."

Immediately opening the window, Samantha wanted to know, "What are you doing? How did you even get up here?"

Slipping into the warmth, he showed her the metal climbing devices. "Cool, huh? Marco designed them. They help us pull off jobs- like getting by X-Security."

"I don't understand." She closed the window again, going to face him. "I thought you went to the party."

He raised a disbelieving eyebrow. "Without you? You've got to be kidding. I haven't had a chance to talk to you about it. You run as soon as Italian's over and you've spent lunch with the girls from your gym class."

Completely unaware, Samantha said, "I'm sorry, Collin. I just didn't want to hear about tonight anymore."

"Hey, I get it," he assured, a mischievous gleam developing. "Now, what do you say we have our own party? Far away from here."

The girl's eyes enlarged at the suggestion. "Are you serious?"

"Why not?" Collin goaded glibly. "My motorbike's outside. We can have our own fun."

Despite herself, Samantha wriggled her eyebrows. "Just let me change."

On the way to her closet, she stopped to stick a chair underneath her doorknob.

IIIIIII

So focused on ensuring the tuning of his instrument, Sean failed to notice the number of wolf whistles that ignited from the appearance of a very female face backstage.

"Hey, Cassidy," now looking back, he saw her accompanied by the tall bouncer, "this groupie doesn't know how to take no for an answer."

"Ohhh, don't worry." Detaching from his chair, Sean wound arms around her ultra-slim middle. "I'll take care of her."

More howls resulted from their kiss turned intense lip-lock with missing key.

Able to withdraw a little, Sean peered deeply into her eyes. "Tell me something."

"Anything," Maya promised.

"You, me, tonight, this- it's actually happening? I mean, seriously?"

"If we are dreaming," Maya responded, "I promise to wake up first to make sure you keep sleeping."

Sean shook his head to that. "Without you, none of this is worth the paper used on the fliers."

After another extended kiss, Maya at last went to rejoin their comrades. The group took up an entire circular booth in clear view of the stage. With the adolescent crowd all around, they each enjoyed soda or coffee. They listened through two other performances before the long-awaited X-Man took to the stage.

The others grew confused at the way he lifted one set of fingers until they noticed Maya wiggling her own. When she pecked the one containing her promise ring, he began.

"How you doing, everybody? I'm Sean Cassidy," the redhead introduced himself. "I'm from Virginia, but I rock Westchester- yes, it's possible." He received many laughs and calmed all the more. "Not much to say except I'm excited to play for you all, I'm a senior, my friends are amazing, and I've got the hottest girl in the place. So, God, if You want me, now's the best time ever."

While many hoots and laughs sounded, Cordelia yelled out, "Stop trying to worm your way out of this!"

Raven gave a thumbs-down. "Bad Seanie!"

"Kill that guitar already!" Ben shouted.

Maya only glowed and not only due to the lights all around.

Able to see an audience instead of a group of nay-sayers, Sean waited for the stage to dim for him to flick his strings passionately. Soon his voice joined in on the melody.

"He's so soulful," came from one commenter at the table next to theirs.

"He's definitely different."

Turning his head, Hank informed, "He's my brother."

Facing forward again, he wound an arm closer around Raven's shoulders and raised his coffee mug in kudos of the singer.

IIIIIII

Returning to the outdoors after the special showing of the film, the cold night air did nothing to still the enthusiasm ringing from the pair.

"Agent," stilling in place, Collin made a gun out of his finger and thumb, "007." Straightening up, he raved, "That last fight was far out! I swear, every time we go on a job, Jimmy wants to play Bond bad guy."

Samantha giggled, twirling about a lamp post. "I love the clothes the ladies were wearing."

Watching her in ivory jeans and coat whirl about with blonde hair flying, Collin had to break his own hypnosis. "Um- uh huh. So, ready to eat? That popcorn's already wearing off."

"I am starving." Samantha rushed forward to walk with him. "I haven't felt like eating much."

"That's no good," said Collin. "Can't have you turning gross and skinny like a lot of the girls in school."

"My foster mother says curves are important." Samantha glanced down to observe her hips. "Do boys like curves?"

Making it to his bike in the parking lot, Collin replied, "If they have brains in their heads."

Though rather crowded due to the Friday evening, they managed to secure a table in the pizza parlor. Collin ordered a loaded extra-large for them and delighted in the way Samantha's carnivorous side came out over it. They downed tall root beer floats as well. When they mounted the motor bike again, Samantha proved surprised by their next destination.

"Aren't you worried about the cop?"

"Me, worried?" Collin led the way into the park. "Not with you around."

His words echoing, Samantha right away followed him.

Discovering some big enough pieces of stray wood, they climbed a hill and used them as sleds. Starting off on her knees, Samantha leapt to her boot covered feet suddenly. Collin marveled at the way she cut through the icy moisture with such grace. So captivated, he did not realize it when they reached the end. He flew out in a tumble.

"Collin!" Racing to check on the fallen boy, she touched his cheeks with her gloved hands. "Are you okay?"

He groaned but reported, "Well, my pride's had better days."

"Ohhh." Samantha laid on top of him in comfort. "It's alright."

"Yeah…" Collin slipped one arm over her. "Sure is." He then jolted them off in a roll.

Clinging to him, Samantha went from screams to squeal. Their forms eventually separated, but remained only a few feet off from one another.

"I swear," Collin crawled over to sit by her, "you are the coolest girl in the world."

"And you're the coolest friend there is," Samantha counter proclaimed. "Thank you so much for this, Collin. This is better than all the parties I could imagine."

"I'm glad." He folded his legs. "Didn't think you'd have much fun with me."

"I always have fun with you," she told him. "It's like I can talk to you about anything." She rethought that. "Except…"

"What? Come on," Collin nudged, "you can tell me- anything."

Samantha let loose a breath first. "I haven't always been so pretty. In fact, I used to be covered in all this white fur…"

Collin smirked. "So, you were the white, fluffy version of Mystique?"

"No," Samantha shook her head, "not that bad off. But I really, really looked like a cat. But nothing cute like Midnight. I had to stay covered up all the time. Finally, my mother paid for me to have surgery. It was long and I had to take all this medicine after, but now I'm better."

"Ah," Collin comprehended. "Where can I sign up for that package?"

"Don't be silly. You look great, especially that beautiful hair."

Collin ran fingers through it. "Oh yeah, the great orange bush. Trust me, Sam, you could be a cat-rat-dolphin hybrid and still look amazing."

Her eyes glinted. "Really?"

Collin nodded. "Think I could tell you something?" She nodded now. "I've never been close enough to… with the way my life's been… I haven't had my first kiss yet."

She surprised him with, "Neither have I."

Collin stared incredulously. "Frank's never…?"

Samantha both stated and confirmed, "And he never will."

"Wow. I mean, I know I'm nothing like him—"

"You're right," she cut in. "You're better than he is."

Experiencing nerves he never did while on an Acolyte mission, Collin inched in. "So… can I?" At her eyes closing, he suffered many skipped heartbeats.

Not entirely sure how to move forward, Collin shut his eyes in turn and somehow blindly connected their lips. It went from there to their teeth and finally, their tongues.

"Oh, my God…" Flapping her hands as if to fan herself, Samantha sat enthralled.

"Holy," Collin gaped, seemingly returning from a visit to the stars. He then reacted to her sudden frozen expression. "Sam, what's wrong? What'd I do?"

With a chirp at the back of her throat, the girl pointed towards a tree.

Turning his head, Collin gulped at the massive male mutant who leapt from the highest point with ease.

"Um," Collin veered around with pulse rising, "I know you're gonna mangle me and all, but can you at least leave me in even pieces to stitch back together?"

Dipping to get right in the young man's face, Victor instructed, "Get on your little bike and go home- straight home. Before I change my mind."

"Right- yes, sir." Collin gave Samantha one lingering glance as he hastened to carry out the command.

At the apparently petrified girl still roosted in the snow, Victor released a low growl. The wordless gesture made her pop to her feet like a daisy. With a small roar, he moved his head to indicate his own machine. Going over, Samantha got into the offered helmet. Only the screech of the motorcycle accounted for noise during the ride home.

IIIIIII

Fingers kneading through Midnight's fur, the young girl now in multicolor lounge pants and Princess Aurora t-shirt stretched on her bed with faraway eyes. The sheer thrill and heart soaring involved in that evening's activities became increasingly watered down by the dread building between her chest and stomach.

An unmistakable knock preceded, "Samantha."

Lips unable to formulate at first, she sat up and mustered, "… Daddy Cat?"

Entering, Victor promptly closed the door after himself. "You know somethin'?"

Nowhere near able to make a guess, she wondered, "What?"

"I can't even tell you how sore I am." He walked over, leaning large hands against the desk. "At myself."

Not remotely expecting this, Samantha stood after him. "… What? Aren't you mad at me?"

"I'm not happy with you," Victor clarified. "The only one I'm mad at is myself." Turning around, he further explained. "I'm not good at clampin' down on you girls- everybody knows it. But I made the same mistake with you that I did with Hank. Youngest of my kind- animal inside like me- and I kept a wall up. I just wasn't as obvious about it with you. I dismissed things with you, made you out to be just an innocent little girl. Didn't want to live up to the daddy gig."

Samantha's eyes dimmed. "But why? Even when I was still with the Pack and I saw you, I knew you were the Daddy Cat."

"I know, but Sammie," Victor faced the window now, "bad things- unforgivable things- happen to little girls I love. That's why not one of you can ever take my name. Call me a superstitious old man, but," he turned to her, "you remind me of one of the most special girls in my life." He came closer, stroking a section of her golden hair. "She was sweet, beautiful, filled with all these dreams- and I lost her. Just like that. Nothin' I could do."

Horrified, Samantha grabbed his arm with both hands. "I'm so sorry."
"I'm sorry, too, baby." Kneeling, Victor kissed her head. "For not doin' better by you. But that's about to change." With a click of his teeth, he went to crack to the door open. "Midnight." He pointed outward. "Go find Logan, go."

Rising at the suggestion, the cat jumped and trotted from the room.

Moving on, Victor informed, "Your aunt and uncle are going to have words for you taking off while you're grounded. Me, I already know you kids are gonna act up, especially when you're ticked. But sneakin' out of this house? At night especially? You sealed your own deal with me." He lowered to sit at the foot of her bed. "Come here, on the double." She hastened to his feet. "You're about to learn this ain't somethin' I like to do too often. So one thing's for sure, you will remember this. No bitin' or clawin', got me?"

Samantha nodded slowly. "Mmhmm…"

Knowing any comfort would have to come later, Victor gingerly brought her over his lap, her upper body supported by the mattress. In a dual motion, he pulled down her soft pants and underwear. He felt her jump lightly over it, but she could react no further as he began to swat. He reminded himself that she still lacked experience with her healing powers and would not bounce back as quickly as Cody. And while older, she was still female.

Tears taking no time at all, Samantha whimpered and squirmed a little. Almost without thinking, she kicked his ankle. Not at all afflicted by the move and knowing he had not warned her about kicking, Victor reprimanded her with a sharp growl and firmer swat.

"You keep still, little girl cat."

Her hair bounced at her vigorous nod.

Stopping at her lax form and moderately red bottom, Victor got her clothes in place first thing. He scooted back on the bed to make her more comfortable, but kept her over his legs to rub her back. At the tender little meow she emitted, he immediately hoisted her up to cradle. He carefully rocked the chastised kitten, supplying affectionate purrs that rumbled from his chest.

"I'm sorry, Daddy," came the whisper.

Victor's purrs increased. "Hey, I know. Don't you worry about it. You just remember that you got a family now. That comes with the good and the ugly. Had to learn that myself when I was right around your age." He looked up at the distinct clawing on the other side of the door. "Uh oh. Sounds like Midnight's 'bout to make mincemeat of me."

Samantha giggled softly. "You better stay for a while."

"Who said I was leaving any time soon?" Victor laid back with her on his front. "You okay, doll?"

"Mmhmm." She kneaded at his shirt. "I love you, Daddy Cat."

"Love you a whole lot more, baby." Pressing a kiss to the side of her head, he then brought up, "Now, about that kissin' business…" At her rapidly disappearing brown orbs, he said, "Shut your eyes all you want to. It's your ears that're about to catch a full load."

IIIIIII

With Brian sufficiently satisfied for the night, Emma returned to her own quarters. While she applied cream to the bare portions of her floor length nightdress, she observed Charles try to make sense of the cases he shared with Raven. Once she climbed into the bed with him, he tucked them all away into his nightstand's drawer to begin again come morning.

"Auntie Emma?" implored one quiet young voice. "Uncle Charles?"

"Samantha," Emma responded. "Come in, sweetheart."

The child poked her head in before entering fully. "I just wanted to…"

Charles instinctively raised his arms to her. "Come here, love."

Getting onto the bed from the foot, Samantha crawled into his hold. "I'm so sorry."

"We know, dear." Emma massaged at her back. "It's alright now. We're not angry with you, but you are confined to your room for the remainder of the weekend. Your behavior will determine the rest of your week."

"Yes, Aunt Emma." Samantha sat up against Charles' chest. "I really am sorry about everything."

"We know you are," Charles said. "However," he positioned the girl to better face him, "the next time you react to what we tell you with tantrums and disrespect, I am going to spank you. We both love you and want to ensure that you grow into a fine young lady. Do you understand?"

"I understand," she replied straightaway, glancing between them. "And I love you both, too."

Emma reached over to kiss her cheek. "Go on back to bed, darling. It's late."

"Okay. Good night."

Charles let her go with a ginger pat to her behind. "Right to sleep, love." As the teenager departed, he brought Emma in close. "Why do I get the feeling that I'll be crying out for Alex's trying years before it's over?"

Laughing slightly, Emma outlined his chest with her fingers. "I really must apologize, sugar."

He faced her in desperation. "Don't leave me now. I'll secure you your own fleet of Mercedes."

Emma gave a poke to his nipple for the not-so-humorous insinuation. "I mean because it's quite evident that Samantha's Frost side is very real. I once threw a ship in a bottle at my father's head."

Charles' eyebrows leapt. "Good Lord, Emma Xavier. What a wretched lass." He kissed her. "You're fortunate Winston did not take his girls to task. Your bum would have been miserable for weeks."

"Like my charge accounts." Emma flashed guiltless eyes at her husband. "Daddy decided we needed some time apart from each other…"

Charles chuckled without remorse. "And you deserved it."

When she attempted to sulk at him, Charles thwarted her protruding lips by applying his own to them.