Chapter Two Hundred Eighty-One
Author's Word: Seasons Gree- whoa, back up, what am I saying? *Backspace* Merry Month of Christmas, fam! I am sorry this is so late, but besides Christmas décor mandating my attention, I've also been preparing for that yearly acknowledgement of my aging process. Yes, this Sunday is my birthday. I'm a little underwhelmed by it, likely due to last year being a time of extremely good personal growth for me. Not to say that I haven't accomplished anything this year. It just hasn't been as grand scale as last year. This is still good because it gave me the chance to put what I learned about myself last year to use, proving that the learning experiences did stick with me. Something that does stand out is that I enjoyed myself as a writer more this year, especially with the latest chapters. With Big Shot, Moments That Matter Most, and certainly Hope Diamond being amongst my favorites. What are some of yours? Let me know. And as a special birthday gift, please enjoy and review!
"Tell me your wicked fantasy."
"Which one?"
With a smirk, Melissa replied, "Pick."
Eyes still aimed at his ceiling, Leon slipped into thought. "I used to have these constant daydreams about my cousin. Every time he screamed in my face, gave into rage spells and demolished everything in his path, said he's sick of me, that my father would be ashamed of me, I'd run to get away from him. I'd go to my room or my dad's and imagine stabbing Jared over and over again. Sometimes in his sleep. Sometimes right through his heart as I looked him straight in the eye. Other times, I'd just picture myself suffocating him with a pillow, watching him struggle until he stopped moving altogether."
After his recollection, Melissa suggested, "You should take up poetry. You're a natural."
Leon rolled slightly to his side to face her despite their only light source coming from his window. "What's yours?"
"I already lived my wicked fantasy," Melissa reminded. "And they get to relive it every day."
"Come on," Leon nudged, "we both know there's no way it ends there. What else lurks beyond the Looking Glass?"
Melissa stayed quiet for a few seconds. "These bad parents I run into. Got their kids filthy, in rags, all of these mothers letting them stay in abusive hell for too long. There are too many times, I want to say "screw it" to helping them. Just want to take the kids, put them somewhere safe, and pry their parents' leg bones from their bodies to beat the stupidity out of them."
"Hm," Leon hummed in consideration. "Slightly above average, but your prose could still stand improvement."
"Lower your nerdiness," Melissa requested dryly. "It's letting in a draft." She stroked at his bicep. "By the way, I better not ever come face to face with your cousin."
Leon could not resist a small wry smile. "You should have seen him when he saw I was friends with Alex. If he had even a notion about you…"
"My calling is to be your ace gut-punch." Rising from the bed, Melissa went to the window. The developing light showed her form inside the WU sweatshirt and track pants. "Sun's frowning at me. I should head out."
Leon shifted to stand next to her. "My family will want me soon. For some reason."
Melissa shrugged a shoulder. "I can think of a few. Have and mortally wound wherever possible." She moved over to his desk chair to collect her dress and other items from the previous night's festivities.
Watching her, Leon mentioned, "Tomorrow night? Just us."
Melissa paused, looking to him. "All night. Just us."
IIIIIII
Keen blue eyes aimed upward yet concentrating on nothing, the metal wielder remained in place that way until additional outdoor light filled his quarters. He left and quickly made his bed, silently asking himself why he bothered with the daily task. The only visitors to his suite consisted of his children, plagued by nightmares or some form of anxiety. A tiny smile found him as he recalled his mother's words about the importance of striking a fine appearance, especially in a boy as handsome as hers. Though Erik constantly denied that sentiment, the mere thought of how she used to insist on its validity inflated his chest.
After finishing in his bathroom, Erik moved through the second floor in his navy sleep pants and robe. He stopped off at and entered the nursery. An alert Brian played with Dickon until he picked up on the presence of the man. Erik felt everything within him ignite with bliss at the child's smile the closer he neared him. Not simply the smile of any fanciful tot, but one the tiny Xavier seemed to reserve solely for him.
At Brian's eager arms, Erik picked him up with a kiss to his soft head. He tapped at the seat of the baby's pajamas, detecting weight as well as wetness. Moving things to the changing table, Erik undressed him and made quick work of disposing the landfill of a diaper. He gathered wet wipes to begin cleaning the bottom of the child content to suckle on his fingers.
Erik felt ginger pressure around his waist followed by the utmost dissatisfied, "Eww!"
Smiling down at his pajama clad girl, Erik bent briefly to kiss her curls. "Is that any way to say hello to your baby cousin first thing in the morning?"
"Good morning, Brian." Becky leaned over to smooch his bare stomach, receiving a giggle from him. She latched onto the man again. "Happy Sabbath, Papa."
"Happy Sabbath, Ladybug." Erik clothed Brian in his yellow honeybee t-shirt and brown jumper. "Now, take your cousin downstairs for something to eat while I seek out the slightly bigger boys."
Becky gathered and supported Brian on her hip while he took yet another opportunity to play with the curls he found all too fascinating.
II
Wondering exactly how many sweets he had gobbled down at the wedding bash, Alex walked out of his room groggily. He received no time to react as the shorter frame came at him like a ram. Having to go to one knee to keep from crashing altogether, Alex scowled into the smirking face of the city native.
"Frankenstein!" he growled after the now sprinting youth.
Frank continued the hurried pace until a materialization before him caused him to topple back. "Hey!"
Leon wondered, "Am I interrupting something?"
"Now I've gotcha!" Alex dropped down and seized Frank by winding an arm around his neck and messing his hair.
"Hey, knock it off!" Frank wiggled. "Lee, a little help!" Shrugging, Leon lowered to reach under his pajama top and tickle his sides. Frank's face rapidly became red with laughter. "Not what I meant! Ugh, you big chumps! You never fight fair!"
"Or quietly." Fists on his hips, Erik's shadow cast over them. "Are you trying to wake up everyone in this house or possibly the entire western world?" Dissembling, the three stood before him. "Much better. And you," Erik reeled in Frank, "are needed in the kitchen."
Frank gave him a big smile and pressed into his front, receiving Erik's arms.
Downstairs, Becky held Brian in her lap while she fed him a mixture of peaches, apples, and a small scoop of cottage cheese. The baby looked to enjoy it, despite much of it winding up on his plump cheeks.
"Hey, sis." Frank walked in ahead of Erik, ruffling Brian's traces of fair hair. "Hey, small fry. You making trouble or what?"
Brian's bright eyes stared back at Frank with something that vaguely resembled adorable menace.
With a snap of his fingers, Erik ordered various utensils and containers to spring up for their meal prep.
The older boychicks came in and at the fantastic floating sight, Leon stated, "I love living here."
Becky gazed up at him with a glowing expression.
It surprised Leon not when Alex made a direct path to speak to Brian. Getting a colorful sipping cup together, the blonde poured some milk into it for Becky to give to the tyke. Brian settled comfortably against her as he drank.
While Erik and Frank wasted no time making the kitchen smell of decadence, Leon and Alex sat on either side of the island. Alex reviewed notes for two separate but related exams. Leon pieced together an outline for his upcoming twelve-page essay. When Midnight sauntered in with a petitioning meow, Leon stopped Becky from having to put Brian down and poured water for the cat himself.
At seeing Leon search for food, Frank informed, "Wolverine has his weekend meals in the fridge."
Going to the ice box, Leon honed in on the section of carefully packaged containers, all with labels. He decided to give Midnight the one with finely diced chicken breast spliced with bits of cat kibble. Leon let it warm on the stove for a moment's time before depositing the contents into the waiting feline's empty bowl. He rubbed Midnight along his spine while he ate, almost able to absorb the ecstasy emitting from the contented animal.
As Leon sat to resume his studies, another made his way into the eatery in the form of the jollier than normal, if such things were possible, Professor. Still in his cashmere robe and silk pajama bottoms, the man took the time to stroke Midnight before removing a silver platter from the correct shelf. The other inhabitants of the kitchen, short of the homework preoccupied Alex, eyed him with peculiarity.
Realizing the attention, he received, Charles smiled brightly. "What? Oh for Heaven's sake, good morning, my darlings." He went through to caress each of the boys' hair, making sure not to disturb Leon's smooth strands. He thumped Erik's shoulder and knelt to smooch the cheeks of Becky and Brian. "Hello, my pretty babies. How is my good little lad?"
Brian giggled at the nose kisses and tummy pokes from his father.
Erik stated, "Your light is more welcomed than the sun itself this morning."
Collecting pieces of toast to put on a plate, Frank put forth, "You must've gotten serious super sleep last night."
"Um… yeah. Enjoy your breakfast. Emma and I are going to be preoccupied for the bulk of the morning." While Charles went to gather the tea service and scones onto the platter, Alex dipped his head in a snort, making Leon smirk as well.
Even Erik had to focus to keep his face straight.
Almost dancing out of the room, Charles nearly bumped into Scott. "Oh I'm sorry, lamb." Charles hugged him with one arm, kissing his bedhead. "Ready to slaughter this weekend? As always."
Though he smiled, Scott reminded, "There's no game, Charles. Too many players have plans and Coach Dan has to go to a wedding upstate. Don't you remember?"
"Ah yes, that's right," Charles recalled. "Kiki penciled it on my calendar and everything." He held a Scott another moment. "Look at you, getting much too tall- stop that- I love you." The Professor danced on and out after that.
Watching him leave, Scott went to join the older boys at the island. "Think today's good to ask for a raise in my allowance?"
Erik commented, "With the mood he's in, today would be a good time to request your own yacht."
"Nah," Scott shook his head, "I'm holding out for a mini jet."
IIIIIII
With a pleasant murmur on her lips, the girl opened her eyes to the soothing fingers combing at her golden tresses. Reddish brown eyes blurry at first, she immediately sat up on distinguishing the head of vibrant copper.
"Mama," Samantha breathed, leaning against her in a welcomed lock. "I didn't know you were coming!"
"Mother's full of surprises, darling- remember that." Adrienne sat on the side of the bed, holding her and playing in her hair. "Your grandfather is coming into town as well."
Samantha raised her head with lit eyes. "He is?"
Adrienne nodded. "And apparently, he has an even bigger surprise in store for you."
Samantha could only smile in radiant glee at the news.
Angel returned from getting her bathroom time in ahead of the other girls. "Dri?"
"Ah, the future queen herself." Adrienne extended one arm for her.
Beaming, Angel walked closer to join their embrace.
IIIIIII
After a scan through the cabinets above the double vanity sink turned up fruitless, Logan dipped his head in thought as to what had become of his new razor. A brief glimpse into the mirror gave him his answer as well as a startle. He hastened over to the bathroom doorway to snatch the silver instrument out of the bitty hands. Todd gazed up at his father with wide-eyed confusion.
Lowering to get near to his face, Logan gestured at the razor while looking at him closely. "No! Not. A. Toy. Don't you touch it again." At the quivering lips, Logan shook his head and delicately tapped his son's mouth. "Uh uh. Don't try that, Pup."
From where he sat in the middle of his parents' bed helping to stock the diaper bag, Cody teased, "Daddy's gonna spank you, Todd."
"Oh, look who's talkin'." Logan walked over with Todd in one arm. "The wise guy who screamed bloody murder when he nicked himself trying to use my old straight blade." Cody bit his lip and darted his eyes guiltily. Logan smirked and placed Todd beside him. "Watch your brother." He returned to the bathroom.
Cody laid Todd down to pull up his shirt and blow on his stomach, causing a squeal of delight from the eight-month-old.
Mira on her hip, Kayla came into the suite with additional milk and baby food from the kitchen. She kissed at Mira's cheek before putting her down to load the goods into the bag.
A shaved and dressed Logan walked out to see Maya enter. "Hey, party girl, surprised you're up."
"So am I." Dressed in a yellow and white spring dress, Maya dragged fingers through her hair. "I thought things were going to get out of hand during that root beer shot contest."
Logan snorted. "Saw you made out like a bandit last night."
"Yeah, just," Maya sighed blissfully, "I cannot believe Brenda- everyone- for doing this for us. I never thought I'd have this kind of support in my life again."
Kayla smiled her way, shifting Mira to rest on her other shoulder. "On your way to your mother's?"
"Mmhmm," Maya nodded "After Sean and I hit the bank… wow, joint accounts. That is so…"
"Grown," Logan filled in knowingly. "If it helps, the more adult you feel is all the more ancient we feel." He aimed a finger towards Cody. "Shut it, Cat."
The boy flopped over, snickering into the comforter.
IIIIIII
In the garage, Erik received assistance in filling the van from the Eye Scream Team. While Frank made sure they had a cooler of extra snacks and drinks, Scott added his ball, glove, and bat. Erik could only regard his diligence with admiration. Both boys wore dark blue jeans and Scott had on his long-sleeve black shirt with gold Batman insignia on the front. Frank sported his Team USA sweatshirt. With his own shades in place, Erik closer resembled Scott in blue pants and black shirt.
When the WU two arrived, it surprised the group not at all to see them carrying their surfboards. Erik did not miss their assortment of school books, either, especially on Alex's part. The pair both had on their custom X tracksuits in black and silver for Leon with black and indigo for Alex. The least astonishing moment for them proved to be Becky hurrying in last with the most overstuffed bag due to feminine preparedness of the highest caliber. Scott helped her find a secure spot for it. Her curls styled into a fishtail braid compliments of Raven, Becky had on jeans in a lighter shade and a white top with dancing colorful hearts printed all over it.
"Is that everything?" Erik looked to each of them individually. "Restroom breaks included?"
Frank vouched for himself and Scott with, "We already emptied."
"Me, too." Becky adjusted her hair ribbon by the passenger mirror.
"Me and Lex figured we'd go in the water," said Leon.
Alex snickered at Erik's dubious look. "We're good, Dad."
"No, you're imps." Propping his shades up on his head, Erik next directed, "Let's be off."
When the Headmaster got behind the driver's seat, Frank wasted no time joining him up front. Becky and Scott sat behind them with him shuffling baseball cards and her journaling. In the third row, Alex balanced textbooks in his lap. Next to him, Leon opened his notebook, but his pen took on its own life as doodling commenced.
IIIIIII
Word of her father's incoming visit having reached her, Cordelia proceeded through the second floor in a long floral skirt and bright yellow blouse. She first checked the children's recreation room. At its surprising lack of dwellers, she moved on to the nursery. On the mat by the crib, Joey helped Brian put together a puzzle consisting of twelve jumbo pieces. Cordelia only smiled at them.
Joey noticed her first. "Hi, Aunt Cordy. Is Grandpa here yet?"
"Oh no, soon, though." Coming closer, she squatted near them. "Listen, my stallion in a pinch, I need to talk to you about something really important."
"Are you okay?" Joey worried.
"I'm fine," Cordelia quickly assured, "but we do need to talk later. After family time and all, alright?"
"Sure," Joey nodded.
II
Hands practically trembling, Samantha worked the brush through her blonde locks. Next to her, Angel finished with her own hair and picked up a light shade of pink for her lips.
"What are you doing?" Samantha demanded.
Believing she meant the lipstick, Angel reminded, "I let you borrow mine all the time."
"No, why is your hair down?" Samantha clarified. "Aunt Emmie says Grandfather likes girls in pigtails."
"Sam, he's seen me already," Angel pointed out. "I've stayed at their house before, hair down and up. He's good so long as you dress the part of a lady."
Standing, Samantha took in her salmon attire of pleated skirt and sweater buttoned up to her neck with white tights and ballet slippers. "Maybe I should change…"
Having endured five outfit swaps on the part of the younger girl, Angel promptly shot down that notion with, "No! Sam, you're beyond perfect. Don't worry. He's going to love you."
"… Okay." Samantha used white bands to restrain her pigtails then realized, "Where is, it, where is it?" With a relieved sigh, she found and clipped on her cat's eye necklace.
Angel looked over to catch the formation of the three Frost sisters in the doorway.
Emma declared, "His lordship is upon us."
II
Four-year-old in his possession, the man played with her hand. "When are you going to return to bring your special dose of sunshine into my home, hm?"
Donning the man's hat, Kiki answered honestly, "I don't know."
"We won't stay away from Boston for long." Hank took Kiki plus hat back into his arms. "She's going to be the determining factor in adding girls to Harvard's student body."
"I'm going to WU like Mommy," stated Trav. "I'm going to play football and be a doctor like Daddy."
Without a blink at the child's words, Winston told the McCoys, "The two of you struck gold and oil in a single feat."
"Oh, we know," Raven beamed, stroking Trav's hair.
Coming into the foyer with his small boys, Charles stuck out a hand. As good as it is to see you, Father, I half want to box your ears for how long you've stayed away."
"Son," Winston shook and squeezed his hand, "I have to apologize. Spare time has become a concept lost to me these past months." Special smile in place, his attention went to the smaller blondes. "My boys."
"Grandpa," Joey acknowledged, going into a shared hug.
"Pop," sprouted Brian.
Charles regarded his son incredulously. "You have a title for your absentee grandfather yet cannot piece together Daddy?"
Winston chuckled, picking up the baby. "Let him get his rebellion out early, Charles. Come teen years, you'll appreciate having the worst behind you."
This appeased Charles not in the slightest as he claimed, "He'll be positively impertinent by then."
Brian giggled, tugging on Winston's lapels.
When the cluster of females descended on them, Winston gave cheek kisses to his daughters, who pecked him in turn.
He held onto Cordelia's hand and asked, "How are you, my dear?"
Exchanging a look with him, she replied, "Just fine, Daddy, really."
"Mr. Frost." When Angel reached arms up, Winston allowed Brian to stand a moment to accept the hug. "It's so good to see you."
"My sentiments exactly, Angela." Winston stepped back to face her. "Congratulations on your university admission."
"Thank you." Angel pushed some hair out of her face bashfully.
Cordelia wanted to know, "Where are Nate and Chris?"
"They're attending an event for Chris' firm this weekend." At the remaining girl, Winston said, "And who do we have here?"
Putting hands to her daughter's shoulders, Adrienne informed, "We have my Samantha. Sweetheart, say hello to your grandfather."
Samantha managed to pipe up, "Hello, Grandfather."
"At long last." Winston delicately enveloped her in his arms and she found herself comfortable resting her head on his suit front.
They brought their large group into the living room, where Winston began distributing from his case. He gave Trav a book explaining human anatomy for the fourth-grade level, which the boy squeezed to his chest. Winston handed wooden and hand-painted male and female ballet figures to Kiki. For Joey, new acrylic paints, Brian a medieval coloring book with crayons, bracelets for the ladies, and personalized cufflinks for the men.
With more to unload, Winston wondered, "Where are Victor and his family?"
"The Howletts are spending the day together," Raven told him.
Adrienne said, "Victor will be back soon enough."
With a bob of his head, Winston turned to Samantha. "I have a different gift for you, but unfortunately it will not be here until tomorrow."
"That's fine, Grandfather," Samantha guaranteed. "Thank you."
To Emma and Charles, Winston said, "I hope you don't mind terribly, but my old friend is attending a convention in Manhattan and I asked him to have dinner with us this evening. Emma, do you remember Otto Octavius?"
"Yes, Cordy told me you recently reconnected," Emma replied. "It will be nice to see him again."
"Otto Octavius." Hank's eyes enlarged near enough to shatter his glasses. "I only got to attend a summer session with him, but the man is—" He looked to every young person present. "Be on your best behaviors tonight."
"Relax, Hank," Cordelia nearly laughed. "Doc Ock is beyond cool."
Winston asserted glibly, "Far more than I'll ever be."
"Still, he is our company tonight," Charles reminded them all.
With the exceptions of Scott and Becky, Hank found himself suddenly grateful to have a few members of the household occupied elsewhere.
IIIIIII
Orange jackets in place over their bathing suits, the dark-haired children rowed their canoe in sync. At the salty water that occasionally made contact with them, Scott gazed back at Becky's continuous grin. Under the plentiful sun, the fifteen-degree spike in temperature in that part of Connecticut compared to New York stayed evident. Nearby, the white speedboat drove through, Erik currently leaving the controls to Frank. They all took the time to wave in the direction of the surfers. With Alex lost to the beloved activity, Leon raised an acknowledging hand back.
When Alex arose to hang ten on a particularly wild wave, Scott hollered out, "Way to go, bro," while the others cheered and whistled.
On shore again, Becky and Scott walked hand in hand with fresh-squeezed lemonades from a family operated stand. Becky wore her extra beach towel tied around her waist, bothered by a few middle-school aged boys giving her a double-take. Alex and Frank darted through, racing away from Erik after dumping sand on him. At the look from Scott, Becky held his drink for him so he could join in.
As soon as Scott ran forward, a boy with hair as sandy as the shore approached to walk alongside the girl. "Hey, what's your name?" Becky only stared forward. "I'm Derek. Come on, what's your name?"
"No Chance." Coming up behind, Leon brought arms around Becky. "I'm her brother, Fat Lip. Keep bothering her and you'll see how I earned that name."
Derek gave Leon a dry, haughty smile. "Right, you're her brother. Sure your name's not Bombs Away?" Leon had no chance to react in any way as Becky emptied the contents of her drink over Derek's head. "Hey!"
Making his way back with the boys like a pack of land sharks, Erik demanded, "What's going on over here?"
Becky pointed accusingly. "He said—"
"Leaving. I said I'm leaving." Eyes stinging from the citrus, Derek managed to back up without falling over as he took off in a sprint.
"Pansy," scoffed Frank.
Scott took Becky's free hand. "Are you okay?"
Erik wanted to know, "What did he say?"
Becky looked up at Leon, who assured, "Nothing I haven't heard since I was like three."
Alex glowered with intention. "Punk's lucky he's a kid."
"Good." Frank stepped forward. "So am I."
An equally heated Scott said, 'We'll be right back."
"Boys," Erik touched a hand to each of their shoulders, "though I applaud you, he is not worth our efforts. We won't waste ammunition on a mere drone."
"He doesn't have a clue what he's saying, anyway," added Leon. "Usual story, probably heard it from his parents." He touched the top of Becky's hair. "Let's get you another juice."
While Leon, Becky, Frank, and Scott walked in a cluster, Erik moved to the front with Alex's eyes open in the rear.
IIIIIII
Across the wobbly bridge of the jungle gym, the tennis shoe covered feet raced and launched. Arms more than ready, Logan captured his oldest son in a tight lock. He spun in place, making Cody holler with enthusiasm. Taking turns batting at the twins' swings, Kayla beamed in their direction. She honed in on Todd's droopy features and stilled both swings to pick him up.
"Logan," she called, getting her husband's attention, "could you play with Mira? Toddy's ready for a break."
"On our way." Logan let his armload hop down.
Cody dashed for the swing set to take up pushing his sister. Logan bent at the knees with palms extended for Mira to attempt reaching them every time she came forward. On the picnic blanket, Kayla watched them while she held the bottle for a steadily drifting Todd to drink his milk. When he removed his lips from the nipple, Kayla put the bottle to the side. She covered Todd with the blue fleece throw and brought him to her shoulder to help him belch. Whispering into his ear, Kayla began the legend of The Wonderful Bird.
IIIIIII
Heavy feet reaching the top of the loft, the brown eyes zeroed in on the curvy form stretched along his sofa.
Stepping closer, Victor reported, "Your dad's got the kids outside."
Adrienne moved her head, making her hair fall to one side. "So, alone at last…"
When she laid back, Victor took the blatant hint and climbed up on top of her. Their lips in appropriate proximity, they united them, followed closely by their tongues. At his teeth clamping onto a portion of her neck, Adrienne gasped with a slight moan.
Victor snatched his head back immediately. "Sorry- I'm sorry."
Blue eyes darkening, Adrienne yanked on him by his shirt front. "Did I tell you to stop?"
"No, ma'am." Victor's resumed nibbling soon caused a shift as they rolled onto the floor.
Landing on him, Adrienne laughed. "Nice to know I can make the Superman of Mutants weak at the knees."
"That ain't the only place, baby," Victor informed, pressing his hand against the small of her back.
Adrienne's fingernails glided across his jawline. "We missed you over spring break. I was actually looking forward to seeing your boys on the field. I packed blue jeans and everything."
"You already got it poundin'," Victor said, "don't make my heart stop altogether." He coiled her hair around his fingers. "Lot of stuff comin' up around here. Prom, graduation, big weddin'…"
"Many more opportunities," Adrienne circled her nose around his, "for this."
Growing serious, Victor asked, "Everything okay on your end?"
"If you look past agents and vain, overly dramatic designers."
Victor sat up a little. "You know what I'm gettin' at."
"The nasty surprises in the mail have been on a steady decline since our stint as proactive concerned citizens. I'm still sorry you couldn't reach me for that fiasco at the high school."
"It was chaotic, but Angie and the kids really held it together." Victor gave her a knowing look. "The clowns behind it paid enough without you orderin' the guillotine treatment on 'em."
Adrienne smirked. "There are other things we could have severed besides their heads…"
Seizing her again, Victor kissed her hard enough away from her present train of thought.
II
"I really like Home Economics, especially clothes and etiquette. Uncle Charles and Aunt Emma help me with that. I love gym class as well with volleyball, aerobics, gymnastics, dance…"
Reclining in a poolside lawn chair alongside hers, Winston said, "Your grandmother would have adored you."
Samantha's eyes glistened. "She would have?"
"You've no idea how much," Winston replied without doubt.
Smile lessening somewhat, Samantha said, "School seems to come so easily to everyone else. Angel's so popular and she's tops in history. Joey has his art awards."
"That he does," Winston knew, "but you were in fact born with your own natural gifts, my dear. While I cannot encourage cheating, I more than understand taking advantage of opportunity. You possess will and determination as well as beauty. You'll find your way, much sooner than you may think."
Samantha felt her chest take flight. "Thank you, Grandpa."
Making a path for them from the rear of the house, Cordelia announced, "Sam, guess who is on the phone…"
The blonde automatically knew. "Collin. Oh, Grandfather," she touched his wrist, "would you mind?"
"Oh by all means, go on." As the delighted girl shot up, the man tacked on, "I look forward to meeting him in person."
Glancing back briefly at his words, Samantha continued inside.
"Collin is only fifteen," Cordelia reminded, taking up her niece's seat. "I take it you'll offer him the softer version of your interrogation procedure."
"And belittle his intelligence to such a degree?" Winston carried a twinkle about his countenance. "Though on a more astonishing note, he seems to have Adrienne's approval."
Cordelia asserted, "That might be scarier than the alternative."
Winston next brought up, "Much is coming your way, my little gem."
"Ah yes, Prom dresses." Cordelia appeared thoughtful. "Taffeta or tulle…"
Winston gave her a look. "More along the lines of university or finishing school. In a moment's time, you will be a high school graduate. I will not have you biding your time until it's far too late. You have important decisions to make and if you are unable—"
"Daddy," Cordelia broke into the tirade, "I've already made my decision."
"… What?"
A smile growing, she further clarified, "Back to Boston… University, to be precise."
Losing his firm visage altogether, Winston brought her in to kiss her head. "Excellent, excellent! I'd hoped you were leaning there." He touched her cheek with his thumb. "We've missed you at home."
Melting into his palm, Cordelia said urgently, "I still have to tell Joey, so please, Daddy, keep mum."
Without losing his thoroughly pleased face, Winston nodded his understanding.
IIIIIII
Bat firm and ready, the blonde male awaited the brunette's pitch. Scott tossed the ball with full force, but Alex's swing allowed no mercy. Running backwards, Scott took to the air almost as if a flight mutation had taken place. He caught it inside his mitt, hardly taking a breath before restarting things with Alex. Not about to get involved in the clash of the Summers Titans, Frank currently resided on a sturdy limb of a twenty-foot oak. Notebook and pencil in his lap, he used his transparency powers to observe the cohabitation of different species residing inside the tree. He wrote his thoughts and findings to bounce off Hank later.
On the front steps of their rental cottage, Erik cradled Becky while watching the spirited lads. Leon sprawled lazily beside them.
Not caring for the vacancy in his daughter's green eyes, Erik inquired, "What's the matter, Sweet Imp?"
"I was just thinking about when I still lived with my birth dad." Becky ran her hands over Erik's watch as she spoke. "Every warm day, I always had to slather on a ton of sunscreen. Sunhats and visors, too. He and Hank always said it's because my skin is so delicate." Her eyes showed a brief sparkle. "Guess I know the real reason now."
Erik rubbed her back. "Does it bother you?"
Becky shook her head. "I feel more grateful than anything. If anyone found out about me… I didn't know before how scared they must have been for me."
"I didn't realize how much fear my father carried, either." Leon's voice made them glance at him. "Looking back, it all adds up. Always picking me up, holding my hand, distracting me when the police pulled us over, making excuses for why we couldn't enter certain stores- always smiling, always reassuring. I couldn't learn our language. We were Americans; natural born. Japan stayed at home, period."
Erik clapped a hand down on his shoulder. "He wanted to carry those burdens for you. You deserved to be a happy, carefree little boy and he did all that he could to make it happen, not taking time for his own selfcare." Erik squeezed his shoulder now. "My father was the same way." Now, he received Leon's eyes. "He and my mother never vented their fears and frustrations until after they tucked me in. My father; kind, understanding, but strong and firm until the very end. They nearly took off his arms to rip me out of them. He fought and reached back, but they outnumbered him. The way cowards do."
Leon laid his head against the man's arm. "You and Alex hide fear like pros."
"Only to protect all of you," stated Erik. "Before this, our own lives didn't matter."
Becky looked to the male with hair as black as her own. "I'm sorry for what that boy said to you, Leon. He was just mad I didn't want to talk to him. Ugh!"
Leon smirked a little. "I get the feeling he has incentive to watch his mouth in the future. It wasn't your fault, Pretty Eyes. Besides, like I've said, I've heard it before."
"You should see the faces for anyone who catches so much as a glimpse of these." Erik raised his tattooed arm.
Touching it, Leon said, "It's different with you, Dad. People are scared when they see these numbers. Because they know you survived the greatest in human atrocities. They can't touch you."
"They can try," Erik shrugged. "However, to touch one of you? They will know real human atrocity."
Both attempting to seize the runaway ball, Alex and Scott jumped, collided with each other, only to find themselves in the grass in under five seconds. Scott sunk into laughter and Alex rolled over to unleash playful punches on him.
IIIIIII
Done straightening the collar of his bronze shirt, Victor pulled his hair back into a neat ponytail. He opened his bedroom door to find the Frost elder positioned to knock.
Winston commented, "My, but you clean up well when not out to best the guards of Buckingham Palace."
"Clean shirt, aftershave- nothin' to it." Victor leaned in his doorway with arms folded. "You need somethin'?"
"Yes," Winston answered, "a little information. Through my political grapevine, I've heard rumor of a male and female pair; apparent experts in the art of sadism. Earlier this year, they supposedly left quite an impression, among other things, on certain groups. A few as I've come to learn who are not particularly happy with my daughter's business decisions."
Victor waited on him to finish and responded, "If you got a question in there somewhere, it's your daughter you need to take it up with. I respect you as her father, Sammie's grandfather, but I don't answer to you."
"I see." Winston pointed with his scepter for the stairs. "We should head down. I don't allow tardiness at my dinner table and I will not play hypocrite here."
Victor nodded in agreement and followed him to the dining room.
"I have thoroughly read and enjoyed every one of your theories, Charles," Otto raved. "Though your thesis deserves its own acclaim. You did well to clarify the mutation process in-depth."
The younger Professor replied, "That is prized praise coming from Dr. Otto Octavius."
"And Hank McCoy." Otto gazed over at him. "What you've managed to accomplish so early in life."
Hank said somewhat coyly, "I'm rather surprised you remember me."
"Let's see." Otto went into recollection. "Summer session '56, Physics, never missed a day, incapable of lateness- in fact, I believe you arrived ahead of me more than once. Front and center desk. Arm shooting up to the point of my wondering how you executed so many touchdowns without developing severe muscle spasms."
Trav giggled. "I do that in school, too."
Hank smiled and informed, "Trav is an outstanding student. He's enrolled in advanced reading and writing classes."
"I never saw him study harder for anything," Raven mentioned. "He really wanted to move up."
"The books in my regular class are too boring," Trav groused. "And I already knew most of the spelling words from here at home. My Uncle Erik taught me a lot in Spanish, too."
Otto put forth, "So, I should expect to see you in my classroom in another year, maybe two?"
Amused, Hank informed, "Only if you make a job transfer to Westchester University. Trav has his heart on his mother's school."
Raven claimed, "I had nothing to do with this."
"Westchester University," echoed Otto. "Quite the reputation among private schools. Might I ask what you're studying, Raven?"
"Elementary Education," Raven told him. "I want to be a counselor. I'm interning at a psychiatric facility for mutants right now."
"Really?" Otto reacted with impression. "Between that and two small children of your own, you'll have more than your fair share of hands-on experience."
Adrienne brought up, "Angel will be starting at Westchester in the fall as well."
Turning to the girl in question, Otto commended, "Congratulations, dear."
"Thank you." Angel lowered her drinking glass. "I'm still getting used to the idea. I never expected to get in."
Brian's sudden outcry filled the room next.
Otto said, "I never meant to bore the child to such a degree."
"Believe me, it isn't you." Emma got up to lift Brian out of his chair. "He's likely missing a certain someone." She patted her baby's back as she walked out with him. "Let's phone your Uncle Erik."
Otto looked at the blonde boy displaying clear dissatisfaction for his brother's mild unhappiness. "I noticed the portrait above the living room mantle." Joey faced him. "I see why your grandfather boasts about your talent."
Joey glanced at the man in question. "You do, Grandpa?"
"Just here and there." Winston sipped his wine. "It's much preferred to listening to my colleagues prattle on about their little darlings' piano recitals. Memorizing Chopsticks does not a future Beethoven make."
With a chuckle in his throat, Otto asked, "Do you have a favorite artist, Joey?"
No thought required, the child automatically replied, "Michelangelo. I've read his biographies a dozen times."
Hank raised an eyebrow. "You have?"
"Oh, he has," confirmed Charles.
"He hardly cared about school at all," Joey continued. "He would watch the church painters all day. His dad let him become a painting apprentice when he was thirteen."
"That's quite interesting," Otto nodded, "considering how much he's more associated with sculpture than painting. He never even anticipated being asked to do the Sistine Chapel."
"But that's why Michelangelo's so cool," Joey grinned. "He spent over four years under that ceiling until he got it right. He was the best artist of all time."
"Hold on," Hank interjected. "While Michelangelo's contributions to the artistic world cannot be denied, I believe the title of best rightfully goes to the real Renaissance leader, Da Vinci."
Moving his head slowly yet purposefully, Joey narrowed his eyes, nearly producing an electric current in his irises. "… What?"
Raven cautioned, "The rest of us might want to duck."
"Michelangelo was ten times better than Leonardo," Joey stated fervently. "Leonardo would just quit his jobs before they were even done. Michelangelo fired all of his assistances because they weren't good enough and spent four years on that ceiling all by himself because it had to be perfect. No matter how big or small it was, everything Michelangelo did had to be perfect. Leonardo couldn't have been that great if he tried. Besides, he liked science and math."
At the disdainful way the boy sprouted the last sentence, Hank came back with, "Oh, so because he didn't believe in the divide between science and art, Leonardo is automatically inferior to Michelangelo?"
"Yes," Joey responded flat out.
Hank's mouth opened, but he found himself without a reply to the atypically bold child.
Otto said to Charles, "Your boy has quite the fireball of passion for his age."
"Indeed, he does." Charles then admonished to Joey, "But let us be mindful of our manners, son."
Humbled by the simple words, Joey calmed. "Yes, Daddy."
At Hank's ongoing incredulity, Samantha and Cordelia exchanged covert smiles.
IIIIIII
When the noise levels almost entirely drowned out his hearing, Erik excused himself from the telephone and left the sleeping area. The sound increased as he made it into the cottage's common room. However, the sight that greeted him not only removed the stinging scold from his tongue, but created a smile of cheer amusement across the metal wielder's face. Leon danced with Becky to Danny Thomas' voice on the small clock radio. Though the moves mainly consisted of Becky's stylish steps and Leon trying hard not to stomp on her dainty, pink sock covered feet. Alex, Frank, and Scott darted from the sofa to around the coffee table and chairs, whacking each other with throw pillows. When Alex dramatically flung himself to the floor, the younger boys piled on top of him. In their night attire of individual colors, Erik dubbed them a Rambunctious Rainbow.
Despite the music, the mutant elder's clearing of his throat made them all look over in a near unison feat. At the head tilt from Erik, Alex prodded at the Eye Scream Team to rise. Scott hopped to his feet and went to lower the volume. Erik nodded appreciatively and returned to the other room.
Sitting at the antique desk again, he brought the receiver to his ear. "Situation contained. Let me hear him." At the tiny intake of air on the other end, Erik's features lit. "Lab Mouse."
"… Uncree…"
Not missing his sniffles, Erik gently hushed him. "Yes, little mouse, it's Uncle Erik. I haven't run away from you. We'll all be home tomorrow. Now, no more fussing." Though he doubted if the boy understood every word, he did detect the cheerful gurgle. "That's a good boy. Finish your food and behave for your mother, Brian. I love you."
A most sincere, "Thank you," sounded when Emma took back the line.
"Thank you. It's much easier to sleep after hearing his voice." They said good night as Alex came in with Scott on his back.
Depositing him on the nearest bed, Alex remarked, "You are getting way too big for this, kid."
Scott smirked and claimed, "You're just out of shape."
"Oh yeah?" Before his brother could shield himself, Alex seized him lightly around the neck and rubbed knuckles into his dark hair. "Don't forget. Once you're not such a squirt, I can beat up on you like I do Sean."
Scott jabbed him in the stomach mildly and squirmed. "I can take you and Sean on at the same time. Throw Hank in there, too."
Twisting in his seat, Erik ventured, "Care to add me as well?"
"No way." Scott shook his head briskly. "I'm not that out of my mind."
Experiencing cannon fire in the form of a thick, red cushion, Alex veered around with a glare. "Frankenstein!"
With a laugh most diabolical, Frank dashed away to escape the perturbed blonde.
"You're to clean up any bloodshed!" Erik called after them. He then walked to Scott and laid beside him, propped up by his elbow. "You do seem to outgrow your clothes in a day's time."
"I know." Scott moved to his side to face him. "It is pretty cool. I used to just want to catch up with Alex, but the idea of getting as tall as you- maybe even taller…"
Erik cautioned pointedly, "Only be sure not to outgrow your britches before your time."
Scott then admitted, "But it's a little annoying, too. My arms look goofy in some of my shirts, I bump into stuff, and my legs feel kind of funny on long car rides."
"Growth spurts take some getting used to. I've been there myself." Erik stroked his hair in comfort. "At least you have the added benefit of being a teenage heartthrob. As if I expected less from a Summers." Scott gave off a slight laugh inched closer towards him. Erik brought an arm around the thin boy. "We'd best call it an early night. We need to be ready and able by six to claim the best fishing spot."
"Maybe a little earlier," Scott suggested, going slugging "We can squeeze a quick run in."
"Against these legs?" Erik patted the teen's long limbs. "Unfair, but challenge accepted." He laid a hand on Scott's back. "I'll get the others then I'll tell you a story, alright?"
Scott nodded and with his continuing lethargy, appeared significantly younger for a growing boy.
IIIIIII
Once the twins finished their last bottles of the evening, Logan and Kayla bathed the wriggly, splashing pair. Mira and Todd eased enough for their parents to dry, diaper, and clothe them without excessive squirming. In his own red pajamas, Cody barreled in and scampered up to be with his siblings at the center of the bed. While their children pawed at Kayla, Logan sat on the side of the mattress to swap out shoes for his shift. Peering up, he saw his brother enter the open suite with chocolate delights in his possession.
"Ah dang-it, Vic, you shouldn't have."
Victor held them out of reach. "You wish, Runt." He gave the pair of gooey muffins to Cody. "Share with the tykes, Mite."
"Thanks, Uncle Vic." Cody passed his mother one muffin and broke off tiny bits of his to feed to Todd and Mira.
"I can hold it down tonight," Victor informed Logan.
The smaller brother replied, "You sure?"
"Yeah, I got backup for the night."
Cody smirked. "Bet I know who."
Kayla playfully pinched his chin.
Logan warned, "You two better be watchin' them cameras…."
Victor gave him a soft kick to the ankle and took his leave.
II
As they departed the nursery from looking in on Brian, Joey held onto Winston's hand. "Want to come see my new sketches?"
The man tugged the smaller hand before releasing it with, "In a minute, Little Charles. And by the way, I have it on good authority that Otto quite enjoyed meeting you."
"I liked him, too." Joey then wondered, "Are you sure he's a scientist?"
Laughter rumbled in Winston's chest. "Among other things, yes."
Joey next inquired, "Do you really say all that about me? About being proud of my art and everything?"
"I wouldn't get too excited about that if I were you." Winston used the jewel end of his scepter to tap the top of the child's head. "I expect any praise I give you to be backed up by your continuous efforts. Understand?"
"Yes, sir." Though, Joey still could not help smiling as he started for his quarters.
Winston resumed walking until he reached one of the guest rooms. On top of the queen bed, Adrienne sat with back to the headboard while coursing the wide tooth comb through Samantha's now loose golden hair. Lounged against her mother, the girl in turn brushed Midnight.
"Pardon my intrusion, ladies." Both looked towards the male in the doorway. "Adrienne, I need to speak to you."
Lowering the comb, Adrienne gently nudged Samantha up before standing herself. "I'll be by later to say good night to you and your sister."
"Alright, Mother." Carrying her cat, Samantha applied a peck to Winston's cheek when he dipped for her. "Good night, Grandpa."
"Good night, you two." Winston ran a finger over Midnight's head.
Once only they remained, Adrienne asked, "Is everything alright, Daddy?"
"I was hoping you could tell me." Winston eyed her as if searching for any glitches in her face or posture. "I want the truth, Adrienne. Did you and Victor go after various supremacy
organizations some time ago?"
Crossing her arms, Adrienne counter-questioned, "Keeping tabs on me, Father?"
"Word gets around and it's never been difficult for me to add two and two together. Fortunately for you, those you opposed lack such a skill."
"I appreciate your concern, but this isn't your problem." Adrienne went to the wall mirror to check her face and hair. "We've already handled it. Though if there are those going about with whispers on their lips, perhaps they require additional incentive."
Winston told her, "Adrienne, you are to stay away from this."
She turned to his with blue irises of disbelief. "Excuse me? Father, these people have made threats against Angel, my models, my agency. If you think I'm going to merely grin and bear it—"
"This is not the time for your fool's pride, Adrienne." Winston gestured towards the window with his scepter. "Are you so ignorant to what is happening in this country? How dangerous it is to openly sympathize with these activists?"
Adrienne scoffed and sneered. "Don't you talk to me about ignorance, you patronizing relic."
Stun immediately followed by fury erupted on Winston's features. "Who in God's name do you think you're talking to that way, young lady?"
"My genetic double," Adrienne retorted, moving hands to her hips. "You're closer to my reflection than anything this mirror could ever reveal to me. Chris, Em, Cordy-prone to doubt, weakness, and painfully pathetic decision making. Exactly like Mother. Me?" She shook her head slightly. "I've always taken after you, haven't I, Daddy? Ready and willing to do whatever it takes, getting knocked down only to rise again every time. Your dream first-born… if only I didn't lack a penis."
"Do not turn this into a crusade for your gender. First or last in line matters not." Winston gripped her arm and stared urgently into her eyes. "Your mutation is not even a tenth as powerful as your sisters'. If you cross the wrong people, they will not hesitate to eradicate you. You are my first-born and I wouldn't change that fact for anything. I will not be forced to bury my little girl."
Adrienne countered, "I will not be forced into terrified helplessness like a little girl. I know what's out there, Daddy. I may not have skin of gold or possess any telepathic trickery, but I am anything but powerless." She started out past him.
"Where are you going?" Winston stepped into the hall after her. "We are not done with this discussion."
She stilled and looked across her shoulder at him. "I'm due downstairs for security soon. With the one steadfast man in my life." With that, she kept on for the girls' bedroom.
II
Seated at his desk, Joey looked away from his present project to address the one who walked in. "Oh, Aunt Cordy. I thought you were Grandpa."
Coming closer to his chair, the girl admired the silk flowers he painted. "These are beautiful. Are they for your class?"
"No," Joey shook his head. "For Laci."
"Ah, lucky." Shutting the door, Cordelia's countenance became apprehensively serious. "Joey, we need to have that talk I mentioned today."
Watching the way she began to pace, Joey grew nervous himself. "What's wrong?"
Taking the time to breathe in and out, Cordelia ceased movement and faced him. "I'm- I got into… I'm going to college in Boston."
With wide open mouth, Joey's stun made him temporarily mute. "You… you're leaving?"
"It isn't like that." Cordelia knelt to get nearer to his face. "This is nothing like Sean and Maya. I'll still be with the X-Men; with you. But I'm really needed in Boston. That's why I've been spending so much time there lately."
"But you ran away from Boston," a flabbergasted Joey reminded. "Why do you have to go back?"
As if vomiting up the words, her explanation came out at an accelerated rate. "Because your Uncle Chris started his own Knights of the Round Table, Fabian and I joined, and now it's up to us to keep mutants safe from these bad people who want to hurt us." Able to take in oxygen again, Cordelia tried to gauge his blank face. "… Joey?"
Shooting up from his chair fast enough to knock it over, Joey ran about in an enthused circle then zoomed over to his bed to bounce up and down
Taken aback, Cordelia could not fully determine if her nephew's reaction leaned towards the positive or a sign of a severe psychotic break.