X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall
Chapter Two Hundred Sixty-Eight
Author's Word: Top of the morning/noon to you, fam! Thanks as always for the fabulous feedback. For those of you who enjoy writing but don't think you're very good, have another viewing of the X-Men movies. Take it from someone who knows, you'll feel tons better about your own writing. Please enjoy and review!
From the roaring fans in the park all the way back to the mansion, the jubilant cheering by Jaguar supporters did not cease. Attached to Victor's back, Scott pumped his fist going inside. Hank held onto a still pompom waving Becky while Raven acted as over the moon as their two small children. The group of ecstatic mutants managed to calm a bit under the Headmasters' requests for the use of indoor voices. Cordelia and Angel herded their fellow young ones into the kitchen for victory sundaes, allowing the instructors their meeting time.
Once situated in their regular places at the joined tables of the library, the adult bunch hardly passed for their normally groomed selves. The only ones to look the same as regular, to no one's surprise, were the brothers Howlett-Creed. All of them sported blue and yellow apparel, mainly consisting of T's, jeans, and sweatshirts. A Jaguars cap took the place of Erik's usual preferred headgear of fedoras. In the athletic gear and caps, Emma and Kayla easily passed for teenage girls. Naturally, Charles' clothes made him look much younger as well. He had not wanted to muss his hair with a cap, but had willingly allowed Joey to paint J's on both sides of his face.
Glancing around the studious space, Charles wondered, "Now, what's happened to Raven?"
They received their answer when the young woman entered, half-done with a loaded sundae.
She darted innocent eyes at them. "What?"
Erik only shook his head while Charles pointed out their sister's seat.
Raven took her chair, batting away at Hank and Alex's ice cream grabby fingers.
"You've got your 'new business' face on, Chuck," observed Logan. "What's happenin'?"
"It's what isn't happening, my friend," the Professor corrected. "Erik and I feel a disconnect from the children of late. We're so preoccupied during the week that we can't even have breakfast with them. And they've been keeping far too much from us." Charles then informed the room, "We're taking this week off from the psychiatric facility and all non-pressing political gatherings. Afterwards, we're going to limit our time there to make sure we're involved with what's going on here."
Alex grew visibly bothered. "I'm sorry I haven't kept a better lid on things."
"Mm!" Yanking the spoon from her mouth, Raven urged, "It isn't your fault, twin. After Friday, finding out how Kiki was really feeling about Maya… I need to spend more time with them, too."
Erik further reassured his son, "Don't think for a moment we're not grateful as well as proud of all that you take on here. You were right in what you said before. Your place is in this house and you carry that position with the greatest dignity. However, the fact remains that you are a twenty-year-old college student. You should have more freedom, spare time, chances to enjoy your friends and school without rushing about every second."
"Absolutely." Charles then turned to Kayla. "And you and Logan both deserve more time with your children. I know how much Cody's been missing you."
"It's the same for me," Kayla said. "He's going to the school with me tomorrow so he can see me at work and we can have the day together."
"Oh splendid," reacted Charles favorably. "I would also like it if you allow us to split your work load as far as grading and assisting with lesson plans. And let me know straightaway if you need me to substitute for you. You shouldn't have to be up to all hours getting everything done."
"Charles, you've already done so much. You provided the building for us," Kayla reminded.
The male telepath would not be placated. "I need to do more than that. I want to."
"So do I," said Erik.
"I'll help as well," Hank offered.
"No, you will not," Charles countered, setting unquestionable blue eyes on the younger educator. "Henry, you already try to take on the labor of twelve men between medical care, keeping up with our equipment and vehicles, trying to be there for your new students, plus your own wife and children. I want to help alleviate your burdens as well. Give you and Victor more time to concentrate on focusing your inner beast."
Victor regarded Hank out of the corner of his eye. "A good idea these days."
Hank thought then nodded. "Yes, you're right."
Raven smiled and touched his shoulder.
"Part of the reason Brian's been a handful is likely because he needs more time with me and Charles," Emma brought up.
"Our necessity to our species goes without saying," stated Erik. "However, these children right here in this house give us what we need to go on fighting. Whatever toll it takes on us, Charles and I must remind them that we are the same men who brought us all together in the first place."
"But not exactly the same," Alex reasoned. "In a good way, though. We've all gotten better."
"Thank God," rang out from Emma.
IIIIIII
Out of her Jaguars apparel and into her pink and white lounge attire, Samantha brushed her long golden strands in front of the vanity mirror. Midnight resided at her feet, grooming her exposed feet with his tongue.
"Sam?" Cordelia poked her head in.
"Hey," the younger girl acknowledged her.
"Fabian and I were in such a rush to get back here in time for the game, I forgot all about this." Walking in closer, Cordelia presented her with a glistening green orb attached to a gold chain.
Samantha lowered her brush, her eyes sparkling along with the necklace. "It's beautiful."
"It's yours." Cordelia handed it over delicately. "A cat's eye. Daddy wanted you to have it." Her eyes flashed briefly. "It was Mother's."
Made luminous, Samantha beamed and enclosed the heirloom inside her hand protectively. "Thank you!"
"Pleased to serve, niece." With a smile, Cordelia took her leave of her to return to her own room.
Only a few seconds of sitting at her desk passed by until Emma tapped feminine knuckles against the doorframe. "I take it Fabian survived Daddy's dinner table. I took it as a positive sign when you didn't hurry back the same night."
"Oh no, it was fine," Cordelia told her. "Very… interesting, but Daddy seemed pleased. He was quite welcoming, even after he went about grilling Fabian."
An intrigued Emma commented, "Softening in his old age I see." She sat on a clear spot of the desk, facing her sister. "Charles and I did some talking while you were away. If you still have your heart set on WU, we thought you could take some courses at the community college. Hike up your GPA and reapply at WU for sophomore year. If you show significant improvement, I'm sure the dean will be more than impressed."
"That is an idea," Cordelia concurred. "But honestly, Big Sis, I still have a lot of thinking to do about everything."
"I understand. Just don't forget where we are should you need help." Emma leaned over to swap cheek smooches with her before leaving out again.
IIIIIII
Keeping in step with the Headmasters as the three of them proceeded through the main level, the young man could only wonder about their specific request to see him post-meeting. They arrived outside of one door and Alex knew it to be one of the unused guest rooms, significantly smaller than the grand quarters of the second and third floors.
Alex raised an eyebrow. "You're either banishing me or putting me in charge of the isolation chamber. Glad my prison experience is finally paying off."
"No, silly boy." Charles placed a hand on his back and gestured towards the room magnificently. "With my study, Erik's "cave", Hank's lab, Logan's range, Victor's loft, Trick's music studio, and the women essentially possessing—"
"Every other square inch of the house," Erik inserted.
"Yes." Charles went on to say, "We thought you were long overdue for your own personal work space."
Alex reacted with, "Oh wow, guys, I really appreciate this, but you know I'm not much of a pencil pusher, right? I don't think I'd put it to too much good use."
"It doesn't have to be a traditional office," Erik said. "We could turn it into your own personal gym with furniture pieces, a television and the like to entertain your friends without having the youngsters invading your time in the lounge upstairs."
"Plus a separate work area for your studies without interruption," Charles added. "You could work out any time you wanted or even host your training sessions without waiting for the downstairs gym to be made available. We would have built it down there for you, but we know you don't want to be terribly far from the children."
Alex immediately grew on the idea, but brought up, "You think all of that is going to fit in here?"
Charles pointed across the way. "It will when we knock down that wall to expand it. The brothers Howlett-Creed and Erik of course, are already on board. I myself plan to supervise from an appropriate distance."
"Whoa, whoa." Alex looked back and forth between them. "You're going to go through all the trouble of extensive construction just to give me my own spot?"
Erik simply stated, "Just to give you what you rightfully deserve."
A grin developing, Alex shared a quick hug with each of them. "Oh man, thanks. This is going to be so cool. Can't wait to tell Jam and Lee." He hurried for the stairs but looked back again. "Seriously, thank you." He continued up, going two steps at time.
Sending a small smile after his boy, Erik noticed Charles' not entirely positive expression. "Wishing you could appease Seanie so easily?"
Charles glanced at him. "If you're going to pick up mind reading, I mandate instruction on metal manipulation."
Squeezing his shoulder, Erik advised, "Don't fret, brother. With this time off we're taking, we can concentrate on setting matters straight around here."
Charles said, "Another thing long overdue."
IIIIIII
Finally home, the Spanish gentleman left his coat on the entryway's rack and made a direct path to his office. Honing in on the confidential mail and messages awaiting him, he clicked on his desk lamp to begin sorting through them all.
"Hola, Papi."
Raising his head, Estevan smiled at the sight of his oldest. "Mijito, still awake?"
"Si, Papi." Fabian walked towards the desk. "I wanted to see you before I went to sleep."
"Si?" Estevan maneuvered around the desk to give his son his arms in a hug. "Now, tell me. How was your weekend meeting the familia? Awe-struck by you?"
"Doubtful, but we enjoyed ourselves. To a much greater extent than expected actually."
"Bueno." Estevan smoothed a section of hair away from his boy's brown eyes of perfection. "I had hoped her father was not out to make you into a lesser being so fortunate to breathe their air of his daughter."
"No, Papi, Winston Frost was cordial," Fabian told him. "He really has no qualms about his daughters' mutations."
"Hm," Estevan hummed his indifference. "How fortunate for his sake."
Fabian quieted a few seconds before informing, "The Jaguars won today."
Estevan now had attention back on his mail. "Hm?"
"The baseball team Anne cheers for," Fabian reminded. "She really wanted you there for the first game. We both did."
Estevan let off a dry chuckle at that. "Cheerleading, mijo? I don't know what your sister finds so enjoyable in jumping about and waving pompoms. Now, go on to bed. We have a few things to go over before you leave for school in the morning and I prefer you coherent."
Fabian bobbed his head, "Si, Papi," and turned to exit the space.
Crossing his arms, he started up the stairs musingly.
IIIIIII
In his athletic gear, the metal wielder departed his quarters in time to see the young one with silver tray piled to capacity.
"Boychick?"
The petition made Frank pause on his way around the corridor. "Oh, morning, Dad. I put this together so Cody can have breakfast with his mom before they go."
"Ah, that's why you're up early. Most considerate, boychick." Coming up on him, Erik touched his shoulder. "Would you be up for a run with me afterwards? Just the two of us?"
"Sure," Frank smiled.
"Meet me at the backdoor after you change. Remember to put on long sleeves."
"Got it," Frank said after him.
The boy brought the tray to the Howletts suite and made fast tracks back to his room after receiving their appreciative words. Frank removed his pajamas and pulled on track pants and his blue sweatshirt with Superman's stylish S on the front. He arrived downstairs shortly and with Erik pleased with his appearance, they took their leave promptly.
Mainly keeping his eyes forward throughout the sprint, Erik stole frequent glances of his mutant fledgling. Frank moved in tune with him, but Erik noticed that keeping up did not seem to be his primary objective. The young teen ran as if trying to escape, not out of terror but possibly due to patience long dwindled. Erik capped them off at two miles and directed them towards home. When they came close to the mansion, Erik brought an arm around him and a panting Frank leaned against his side.
II
Sizzling meat prepared to perfection, the dutiful Professor transferred the turkey bacon, made specifically with his brother in mind, to a serving platter. From the table, his wife offered him assistance by helping their baby with his juice and wearing an ivory sweater and pants that loved her form almost as much as he did. Reaching around Emma's chair to seize more salt without having to trouble her, the peck she gave him instantly became an indulgent kiss. Drinking from his special cup, Brian watched his parents with twinkling blue eyes.
Dashing forward, Frank leapt ahead of Erik into the kitchen. No discouragement came over the Headmaster as he entered next and seized his competitor for tickling. Frank attempted to dodge the fingers, but he wound up giving into a fit of voracious laughter. Emma and Charles exchanged a look, clearly more than pleased to hear the delighted sound echoing from the boy.
When Erik went into one of the refrigerators, Charles walked over to greet Frank with a hug. "How are you this morning?"
"Pretty good I guess," Frank determined.
"Hmm, I'll take that for now, but let's see if we can improve upon it." Charles patted his back and let go of him to resume cooking.
Frank quickly guzzled down most of the water from the bottle Erik handed him. The Headmaster drank from his own and used a portion of it to relieve his heated brow.
Erik reacted to Brian's beseeching hands with, "Not right now, Lab Mouse. Uncle Erik needs to tidy himself a bit."
"Both of you," Emma said of the two runners. "Get into your showers. You're absolutely disheveled."
"As the lady would have it." Erik squeezed Frank's shoulder, guiding him out.
Soon enough, Charles produced enough food for an army, but still hoped it would do to tide his brood over.
When she entered the dining room several minutes later, Raven stood almost entirely convinced she had somehow transported back to London. Scones, poached eggs, bacon, hash browns, blueberry waffles, orange juice, two types of tea, and milk filled the table. It took exceptional willpower for all involved to wait on the rest of the diners. With Kiki seated at the head of the table with Charles, Trav naturally claimed Erik's lap. Emma finished mixing Brian's peach oatmeal and let him scoop with his plastic spoon.
Coming in, Becky's green eyes jumped. "Uncle Charles? Papa?" She hurried over to provide their morning kisses. "What are you doing here?"
Erik flicked his daughter's nose. "There's a rumor going around that we live here."
"We thought we'd start acting like it," said Charles. "This family needs to start the day together."
Becky grinned.
"Whoa, hold on." Hank seized her wrist when she started to pass right by him. "Where's my kiss?"
"Ohhhhh, sorry, Big Bear." Becky smooched his cheek. "I guess I'm just used to you being here."
"Oh, so I'm only décor for you now." Hank pressed lips to the back of her hand before releasing her to her chair.
Going to squat at Charles' chair, Sean smiled brightly at Kiki. "Hey, Bumblebee. I'm glad to see you."
Kiki waved absent fingers at him while continuing to stir cream and sugar into Charles' tea for him.
The Professor gave the redhead a sympathetic gaze and Sean went to his seat with a sigh.
When Maya came in carrying Mira, Erik noted, "Almost a full house today."
"Wolverine is busy with Todd and she didn't want to be up in the room alone." Maya sat with the baby girl.
At Logan's entry with the boy half of the twin set, Hank frowned with concern. "Toddy? Is he okay?"
"He's fine," Logan dismissed. "Just cranky because he wanted to play with his brother, but Cat had to run with their ma. Fox took the car so I could stay with him."
"I don't know." Leaving his seat, Hank went to press his ear against Todd's chest. "What is this congestion I'm hearing?"
"That ain't congestion, it's growlin'," Logan informed, giving his tiny son a tap on one padded foot. "Cut that out, Pup." He eased into a chair with him.
Raven looked over. "He's growling already?"
Victor commented, "When he's ticked enough."
"Come, all, eat your breakfast," Charles directed. "And don't choke it down. Take your time. If you're tardy, I'll gladly discuss it with your teachers."
Joey glanced up at that. "Are you taking us to school, Daddy?"
"Yes, I am," Charles confirmed. "All week long. Uncle Erik's going to pick you up."
Trav promptly erupted with, "Yay!"
With a smile, Erik gave him a little bounce in his lap. "Easy now, Valiant."
"Huh, free time," Leon remarked. "What a concept."
"Darling, why aren't you eating?" Emma asked Brian. She took the spoon to scoop up a portion of oatmeal for him. "Here we are. Open for Mother."
Brian responded to the request by punching his bowl off his highchair.
"Whoa!" said Trav of the splattering contents. "Bombs away!"
"Ugh." Charles used a napkin to wipe off the oatmeal bits that landed on Kiki and scowled at his baby. "Brian Henry…"
At the way his brother shrunk under the scold, Joey offered, "I'll clean it up, Dad."
"No, son, you eat." Standing, Charles left Kiki in his chair and removed Brian from his. "And you, young man, are going to spend some time in your crib until you're feeling a tad more agreeable."
At Joey's resulting pout, Emma stroked his hair. "Treasure, you know Daddy is only trying to get him to settle down."
"I know," Joey sighed, but started eating again.
"Hey, Angie, can I snag a ride in your hot new wheels?" Frank requested.
Angel granted, "Sure, baby."
Frowning, Sean suggested, "Why don't you ride with me, Frank-O? It's been a while. And we can stock up at the candy store on the way."
"Oh goody gumdrops." Frank put on a tight smile. "Because as we all know, I'm still twelve."
Scott snickered into his orange juice.
Sean pushed his plate away and faced Emma. "May I be excused?"
She nodded kindly. "Go on, sweetheart."
Passing Maya, Sean said, "I'll be in the car, honey."
Maya only let her eyes show her true feelings, not wanting any far more visible stress to disturb Mira.
IIIIIII
When they arrived at the safe house, Cody first assisted in the kitchen. Afterwards, he jotted down the day's agenda on the chalkboard while Kayla got herself situated at her desk. Soon, the students began filing into the designated classroom.
"Mrs. Howlett?" An Oriental girl approached her. "Do you like this?" She performed a slow turn in the baby pink blouse she wore tucked into a beige pleated skirt.
Kayla responded, "Oh Mia, you look beautiful."
She smiled. "My brother was so happy to get his first pay on Friday. He surprised me with a whole bag of new things."
"I'm thrilled the hardware store is working out for him."
Mia said, "He loves it, especially being home every night," and went to her regular chair.
Cody finished at the board and took a seat at the opposite end of Kayla's desk with his own study aids laid out. He gazed upon the numerous other young people, noticing far more tan and dark skin colors than his classroom or entire school had to offer in Westchester.
Once all together, Kayla greeted the room with, "Good morning, everyone."
They automatically chorused, "Good morning, Mrs. Howlett."
"For those of you who haven't met my TA for the day yet," Kayla beamed her boy's way, "this is my oldest son, Cody."
"Good morning, Cody."
"What's up?"
"Hi, Cody."
The aforementioned one waved at them. "Hi."
While the students passed around the attendance roster, Kayla handed back their graded work. She assigned some arithmetic problems to the youngsters and reviewed papers with the older bunch.
Cody noticed the way one Hispanic boy, about Trav's age, only stared at the math and got up to go to him. "Hey, what's your name?"
The younger brown eyes peered up. "Juan."
"You want some help?" At the eager nod, Cody took his pencil to point out and break down the first problem for him.
Keeping in discussion with the others, Kayla flashed a quick smile their direction.
IIIIIII
Despite his household's quite leisurely breakfast, Charles made it to the grammar school with a few minutes to spare. After seeing Scott and Becky off, the Professor carried an enthusiastically chattering Trav in one arm while escorting Joey to his room.
"And who do we have here?" Charles said of the redhead awaiting his son.
"Good morning, Professor. Hi, Trav." Laci's gaze settled on the blonde. "Hi, Joey."
Entering a trance, he managed to return, "Hi…"
Biting back a chuckle, Charles said, "Have a good day, you two," and moved to turn.
"Dad!" Joey shot after him. "Wait."
Rearing back right away, Charles asked in alarm, "What's the matter, son? Did you forget something in the car?"
Joey threw arms around his middle. "I love you."
Smiling widely, Charles ran a hand through his hair. "I love you, too, son. Have a wonderful day."
"You, too." Joey then hastened back to Laci.
IIIIIII
With Brian content to make use of his foam letters, Emma took the opportunity to collect the stray oddities left around the living room by the significantly bigger children. When his mother placed the laundry basket she used to hold everything in the middle of the floor, Brian looked around his immediate surroundings. He picked up his set of plastic colorful keys and his clown rattle.
"Ma-ma."
Going from bustling cleaner to rock solid statue, Emma very slowly turned around. "What… darling, what did you say?"
"Here, Ma-ma." Brian deposited the small toys into the basket then looked up as if to see if he had done so to her satisfaction.
Emma's eyes filled with tears and she dropped to her baby's side. "Oh, my… Brian," she brought him to her in a locked hold, "oh my sweet boy, you said it." Elated tears trickling, she kissed his head. "You said it…" Realizing, she pointed out the basket and commended, "Very good. Thank you."
The delighted boy squealed and clapped.
IIIIIII
"I've never felt this up against a wall before. Yeah, I've seen Frank pissy, huffy, and definitely bratty, but this? It's like he hates me."
Rounding the corner with him, Ben said, "He hates the situation. If he hated you, he wouldn't be nearly this upset to see you leaving."
Sean sighed heavily. "No matter what I try to say or do, I can't get through. Ben, this is… this is the kid who used to follow me everywhere. We could easily stay up all night swapping home life stories and baseball cards."
Ben touched a supportive hand to his back. "I know what you're feeling. Josh and I started up this Boys Only Club after we became brothers."
"Maya and I keep facing hostility over all this. I keep wondering, is it all a sign?" Sean stopped, leaning back against a locker. "Are Maya and I the ones wrong here?"
"There is no easy yes or not to that," Ben replied honestly. "My dad had basically everyone's approval the first time he married and look how that ended up. Everybody flipped when he went after a shiksa and I can definitely say that turned out pretty darn good. For my own two cents, I think you and Maya have made every effort to be a good couple according to God's standards. Sean, if He's for you, it doesn't matter who's against you."
The redhead bowed his head in thought. "Thanks, man."
They slapped hands going into a shake and continued on for their next class.
IIIIIII
During recess, Cody followed many of the younger students outside. Kayla, a couple of the other women, and a few of the older siblings monitored the backyard activities. Over by the steps, Cody got involved in a game of marbles with Juan, Mia, and some on-lookers who admired his shooting technique.
One girl commented, "You're the luckiest kid in the whole world." When Cody raised his head in clear confusion, she clarified, "You have Mrs. Howlett for a mom."
"Yeah," Juan concurred. "My mama works in a hotel. I don't see her until it's time for bed."
"I wish Mrs. Howlett was my mom," said Mia. "We had to run away from ours."
"How come?" Cody wondered.
"My brother almost beat her boyfriend to death." Mia played with one of her onion skins. "'Cause he caught him in the bathroom. I was in the tub."
Cody's startled eyes went from her to the other youths gathered around them. He kept on playing, but found concentrating an impossibility.
IIIIIII
"I'm afraid I have to cancel. I'm sorry, but it's simply out of the question." Moving in a circle with receiver attached to his ear, Charles shook his head as if he could be seen. "I have no interest in partaking in yet another pointless schmooze fest. Unless it pertains to urgent mutant mat—" Charles listened a moment. "Hold on, please. I have to confer with my secretary." He put a hand over the mouth piece and glanced towards his desk. "Do I have anything for the twenty-fourth?"
Kneeling in the executive chair, Kiki scanned the big desk calendar. She looked up, making a batting motion with her hands.
Charles nodded and returned to the phone. "No, I'm afraid my little boy has a baseball game that day. I'll have to call you back on Friday. Have a pleasant week." He hung up with a combination relieved and frustrated sigh. "Politicians..." Placing the phone on the desk, Charles knelt by his niece. "Overgrown babies the lot of them."
A giggling Kiki sent soothing fingers through his chestnut brown hair.
Sensing the young minds long before he heard the front door, Charles stood and attached Kiki to his hip. "Let's go see the big kids." He carried her out, spotting the older two teenage girls making their way through the main level. "Hello, ladies. Where are the lads?"
"Where they always are these days," Cordelia answered. "Upstairs in separate warring countries."
"Of course," Charles said with knowing despondence. "And Samantha?"
A suddenly stiff Angel repeated, "Samantha?"
"Yes, your sister. Pretty blonde lass," Charles described, "provided our household with the furry nuisance known as Midnight."
"She just…"
Cordelia filled in, "They just went for a little ride. Her and Collin."
"What?" Charles' eyebrow practically bounced to the ceiling. "She knows she's not to go anywhere with anyone until I've seen her grades come Friday. Has she done this before?"
Angel moaned. "Come on, Charles. Would you testify against your own sister?"
"If she committed a violent crime, absolutely not," the man replied. "If she violated one of my house rules, most assuredly."
Cordelia said, "It was only one other day last week. She still got her work done."
"That isn't the point. As she will learn the second she walks through that door." Charles headed back for his study with Kiki, who reached up to massage his temples.
Cordelia quipped, "Good thing cats have nine lives."
"Yeah," Angel headed for the kitchen with her, "because Charles is going to snatch her first eight."
Going to sit at the island, Cordelia told her, "I need to tell you something."
Angel looked away from the refrigerator. "How big is the body?"
Cordelia wore a small smile. "I wish it were that simple."
Angel took a stool across from her. "What's wrong, Gorge?"
"When I got to my dad's on Friday, there were two envelopes waiting on me… from Boston University and the University of Massachusetts."
Eyes enlarging, Angel surmised, "As in the ones in… Boston, Massachusetts."
An uneasy Cordelia replied, "Precisely."
"You're really going back to Boston?"
"No! I mean… I really don't know." Cordelia threw her head back in exasperation. "I never expected to actually get into either one of them."
Angel had to sympathize, "Tell me about it. I swear," her lips quirked, "there's an X-Man Exodus going on around here."
"I know," Cordelia sighed. "Which is why this is so hard."
Angel sat in quiet pondering. "I know I can't really talk with how I'm in and out with my modeling gigs. I just really wanted us to do the college thing together."
Cordelia said, "So did I."
"Separate schools, separate states… I can live with it," Angel decided. "What I can't handle is losing my best friend."
"You won't." Cordelia hurried up to share an embrace with her. "No matter what happens. You know I can't lose you, either."
Angel looked up and said, "And I am happy for you, girly, really. Congratulations."
Cordelia gave off a small smile. "Thanks, Ang. And remember…"
"Not a word," Angel guaranteed. "I promise."
IIIIIII
While Kayla wrapped up her last student meetings, Cody reviewed that night's homework with a few of the eight years and under children.
After the room completely cleared, Kayla checked her watch as well as the wall clock. "Come on, CoCo. We need to beat this traffic to make it home for dinner."
"Okay, Mama." Cody loaded up his backpack and headed for the front.
Her own bag prepared, Kayla linked hands with him as they started from the room. "Did you have a nice time today?"
"Yeah, the greatest."
"Oh, good. I loved having you around. This was the smoothest Monday yet."
"I'll help some more when we get home," Cody offered. "I'll write the next lesson plan if you want."
Kayla laughed softly and squeezed his hand. "Why don't you leave that to me and you can keep an eye on your brother and sister?"
"Sure," Cody shrugged. "I can do that, too."
As they left the building and proceeded towards the Cadillac, Cody clutched her hand tighter.
IIIIIII
Carefully poking golden haired head in through the backdoor, the girl released a breath at the clear coast. She scuttled inside, only for her relief to shatter at the resonating voice in her head.
Samantha Frost, my office this moment, please.
With a whimper, Samantha resisted a foot stomp as she made the dreaded path towards the workspace. "Uncle Charles," she acknowledged the gentleman with arms crossed, "… you're home."
"Something you clearly were not expecting." He pointed. "Sit down." Samantha did so in one of the chairs facing his desk. "Where have you been?"
"With Collin." She made sure to add, "We were studying for our Italian test."
Charles used his foot to audibly shut the door. "I don't care if you were transporting refugees from the West Indies. As punishment for your cheating fiasco, did I or did I not tell you to come straight home after school during the week?"
"You did," Samantha answered promptly. "But it was only for an hour."
"Again, irrelevant," Charles dismissed. "And apparently, you did this last week as well. Is that what happens when I leave this house? You think yourself free to disregard rules and consequences?"
"No, Uncle Charles," Samantha shook her head. "It isn't like that."
"Odd because that's exactly what it appears to be. It also seems you are intent on testing me. Clearly, I've shown you too much leniency." Charles sat in his desk chair. "Come here, Samantha."
The girl got up and approached wordlessly. It shocked her at the abrupt manner in which her uncle brought her across his lap. However, what really struck her, figuratively and literally, was the crack she felt connect with her bottom.
Though he loathed the very notion of using implements on his girls, Charles brought the ruler down on the seat of her riding jeans. He gave her five whacks with it before putting the piece of wood away. Unleashing his own hand now, Charles added to the force. Aware of her growing healing capability, he also knew she did not have the pain tolerance of one Hank's age. All of that amongst his consideration, Charles kept spanking her briskly.
Still not used to the punishment, Samantha began crying almost straightaway. While the Professor's hand did not have the exact might of Victor's, her behind still experienced supreme agony.
"You are grounded for the weekend and so help me, Samantha Frost, if you are anything but the most well-behaved little girl in all of New York state, you will be spending your spring vacation in your room as well," Charles warned. "Do you understand me, young lady?"
"Yes!" Her tears went on relentlessly.
Charles stopped when he reached twenty strikes with his own hand. He initially considered letting her up and gauging her reaction, but decided to pick her up into a cradling position. If she did not want him to hold her, he could handle that better than she could thinking he had no heart left for her.
When she clung to his shirt front, Charles could not help his nostalgic smile. She reminded him so much of Raven as a young teenager, though he gave Samantha credit for far less sassing.
"I'm very sorry I had to do that, love." Charles moved blonde hair away from her face. "But I cannot allow this secretive, sneaky behavior to continue with you. Even if I have to spank you every time. Not only that but you must learn to mind me, Victor, your Aunt Emma, and the other adults caring for you here."
Samantha whispered, "I'm sorry, Uncle Charles… sorry for being ungrateful."
Charles kissed her head. "I know you didn't intend any disrespect and that you're still getting used to being part of a family. But it's because I love you that I have to discipline you as well."
She wiped at her eyes. "I love you, too."
He noticed her cat's eye and tapped it with one finger. "What a lovely piece."
"Cordy brought it home from Grandfather. It was Grandmother's."
"What a refined taste for jewelry she had. All the prettier on you." Giving her another hug, Charles next said, "You may go to the kitchen for a small snack then I want you right back in here to finish up your homework. I want to keep an eye on you, my Princess Calico."
Samantha hid a smile. "Yes, Uncle Charles."
Charles used a kleenex to finish clearing her face then allowed her up.
IIIIIII
Jotting down ideas for his new private space, Alex put forth, "Okay, how's this sound? A jacuzzi big enough to hold the entire girls' volleyball team."
"They are absurdly slim," Leon pointed out. "It's doable."
From his desk, Erik piped up, "Construct one for me and all of their mothers and we can strike a bargain."
"Gee, I don't know, Dad." Alex sat up on the sofa. "See, you refuse to tell us your age so for all we know you may be better off with their grandmothers."
Leon turned his head in a snicker.
"As insufferable as you are…" Erik's hard expression softened. "I suppose I should relish this time while it's here."
Alex frowned at the morbid wording. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Erik reminded, "Soon you'll have your own work area."
"Well., yeah, but so? You think I'm going to outgrow the Cave just like that?"
Erik stated, "I think it won't be long before you have young ones of your own to fill that space. Pilfering your office supplies, lounging on your furniture, leaving their toys scattered for you to trip on, never missing an opportunity to make sure your day ends on a positive note."
At that assertion, Leon eyed Alex, who proved unable to speak.
His voice returned when Frank walked in. "Where have you been?"
"Looking over Trav's homework and straightening up the kitchen."
"Take a load off," Alex suggested. "You're making the rest of us look like crap."
When Leon inched down, Frank took the spot between them on the sofa.
Leon touched his shoulder. "This thing with Sean still getting to you?"
Frank stared forward. "I'm just so over never being able to count on anyone."
"You can count on us," Alex reaffirmed. "We're right here for you."
"You're here for Joey, Alex," Frank claimed. "You always have been."
"Joey's here for me," Alex corrected sharply. "He gave me a reason to stop being a total idiot. You always came off as so smart, in books and the street, and you always held your own whenever we got into shouting matches and definitely during training. You made me feel stupid half the time. I never thought you needed me back then."
Frank faced him with beseeching brown eyes. "I need you now, Alex."
"Good." Alex touched foreheads with him for a moment. "Because need or want, you're stuck with me."
Leon tugged Frank over to sit on his thigh. "And just think, with Sean and Maya both moving out that frees up a sizable portion of my spare time to watch every move you make." Leon patted the younger boy's knee. "Won't that be fun?"
"A regular dream," Frank replied with a playful eye roll.
Leaving his desk, Erik went to squat to eye level with the youngest male. "Boychick, I will not force you to hide your feelings and make amends with Sean. However, I will remind you that you are both still X-Men and you will practice civility with each other."
Frank nodded. "Got it. Dad… am I wrong? Feeling fed up?"
With less thought involved than he spent picking out a pair of socks, Erik answered, "No. What you are is a boy who has had to bid farewell one too many times. Yet by that same token and even though he isn't acting as I would like him to, I can't say that Sean is wrong, either. I only want you to remember that whatever occurs between the two of you," Erik cupped his chin, "you still have a family. Right here."
Frank laid his hand over Erik's to better nuzzle into his palm.
Alex attempted to return attention to his design plans, but found his original focus to be a lost art.
IIIIIII
Blonde baby boy hoisted in the air, Emma coaxed, "Go on, beloved. Say it again. Please, won't you?"
Brian pointed downward. "Mama."
A glowing Charles insisted, "He's a scholar. Hey, old boy," he tickled their son's stomach, "can you say Daddy?" He took him from Emma. "Say Daddy." When the tot only stuck fingers into his mouth, Charles made a show of sulking. "What about meanie? I'll bet bottom dollar you can say that."
Brian lifted his head. "… Mama."
Emma laughed and Charles attempted to give him a firm countenance.
Passing through in pale yellow pajamas, Cordelia peeked her head into the master suite. "Am I interrupting?"
"Not at all. Brian," Charles moved quickly to keep him from his attempt at fleeing the bed, "where do you think you're going?"
Emma brought him back into her arms. "Joey's created a mobile monster."
Returning to the teenager, Charles asked, "Did you need us, love?"
"Mmhmm." Coming closer, Cordelia sat on the edge of their bed. "I… I got into university. Two actually."
"You did?" Emma's eyes lit up. "Why didn't you say anything?"
Charles wanted to know, "Where, where?"
Cordelia outlined the pattern on their comforter with her fingernail. "U of Mass and Boston U…"
Both their expressions dimmed significantly.
"Boston," Charles finally spoke the keyword.
Emma said, "We didn't even know you'd applied."
"It was a lark," Cordelia insisted. "I didn't expect it to actually amount to anything."
Reaching forward, Charles took her hand. "Darling, does this mean you want to return to Boston?"
"I don't know. I…" A few tears escaped her heavy blue eyes. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean… I shouldn't have even…"
Charles immediately reeled her into his embrace. "Shhhh, love, don't cry. It's alright. We're not angry with you."
"We're proud." Emma rubbed her sister's back. "These are two highly ranked colleges we're talking about."
"Daddy and Chris are all for it, too and Nate says we could be study buddies, but I…" Cordelia burrowed against Charles' pajama shirt. "I don't want to leave you. I don't want to leave Joey and Angel and Alex and I…"
Charles rocked her in his hold. "Dear, even if you did pursue this, Boston isn't very far away. Your father and Chris will be there with you, we can come see you as quickly as you can make it to the telephone, we—" He paused suddenly, looking into her face. "You aren't planning to wed soon, are you?"
Cordelia shook her head hard. "God no. I just want to survive calculous."
Emma smiled, caressing her hair. "Small favors. But Charles is right, Baby Sis. Whatever you decide, we'll make it work."
Bringing her eyes up, Cordelia faced them individually. "You'll back me either way?"
Emma said, "Absolutely," while Charles assured, "Of course."
"Splendid…" Cordelia tugged on Charles in desperation. "Now, what do I do? What do I do?"
The man chuckled. "What if tomorrow after school, the three of us retreat to my office and look over every option together? How does that sound?"
Cordelia practically collapsed tossing arms around him, "Thank you," then hugged her sister and small nephew as well.
Emma reminded, "That's why we're here and why we will continue to be."
Cordelia then requested, "Please don't say anything to Joey. I really want to speak to himself myself."
Charles promised, "We are as silent as you are golden. Now, go on to bed and let this trouble you no more. And again, we're very proud of you."
The girl grinned and leaned on him once more. "I love having you home." She blew a kiss at her sister and hopped up.
Emma turned to her husband. "That seems to be the general consensus around here."
Laying down, Charles stared into his son's chubby face. "Is it really?" Brian used his hand to press down on the man's nose. "Is that a yes?"