Rise or Fall

by Heiress Mellie

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

310. Chapter 310 Special Delivery

Chapter Three Hundred Ten

Author's Word: Hello, X-Fam! Yes, I am pleased to inform you that I survived that brief return to the pit. In all honesty, I never got near the pit because the location I was sent to was in a part of the area I was not remotely familiar with. I was also indoors for most of it. Also, it was a one-time special event and not one of our regular sites. That's a relief compared to my original theory that demonic forces are stalking me and trying to get to my family. I made it through in large part because of you guys and all those encouraging words that helped me from dawn to dusk. Thank you all so much! Now, please enjoy and review!

Upon stepping into the grand reading room twice the size of any ordinary high school's, the pair made their way through the individual aisles. By the time they reached the center, they drifted to opposite ends and raced, peeking at each other at certain points. Considering her choice of heeled footwear, Jessie's maneuvering pleasantly marveled Frank. At the end, they ran at each other. With a soft collision, they met in the middle. Jessie gripped him by his biceps and Frank stooped a bit to leave his hands at her hips and level their eyes. They closed the minimal gap between them by bringing their lips together.

Exhaling deeply after the kiss, Frank took her hand and tilted his head in another direction. "Come on."

Jessie stayed by his side as he resumed her tour.

II

Donned in a black cape from the recreation room's costume chest, Cody jumped from a chair to the top of the arts and crafts table. He kept a wild west lasso coiled around his shoulder, a plastic gun in the left holster on his hip with his birthday dagger in the right. Tommy rode in a wooden makeshift airplane. With the toy hardly made for anyone bigger than Trav, Tommy's stature allowed him to squeeze in without the discomfort bothering him too much. He wore a pair of oversized headphones as his walky-talky radio.

"Howlett to Walsh," Cody used his wrist communicator as a makeshift radio, "what's you ETA?"

Tommy came back with, "This is Walsh. ETA approximately two minutes. Be ready."

"I'm always ready," Cody replied haughtily then ended their faux transmission. "Come on, babies." Hopping down, he gathered the various stuffed animals. "Freedom's only a hop, skip, and two minutes away." He situated them on the circular throw rug and veered around defensively. "They're onto us! Stay down, kids." Taking his gun in one hand and dagger in the other, he crouched readily. "The only way you get these kids is over my dead body, you cowardly sons of jackals. Rah!" With that battle cry, Cody rushed forward. He clicked the trigger of the gun and plunged his blade into invisible enemies. He feigned fatigue and stumbled back. "There's too many. Walsh, where are you?"

"Gotcha covered, Howlett. Get back to the kids, hurry!" When Cody hastened to the stuffed animals, Tommy flung a plastic grenade and emitted a booming sound effect from his throat.

Rising, Cody commended, "Way to blow 'em away, Walsh."

"What's freedom without fireworks?" quipped Tommy. "Now, let's move."

Grabbing the toys again, Cody raced to position them near Tommy in the plane. After he secured them all, Cody mounted the tail with fists in the air victoriously. Tommy played with the steering wheel and got them "airborne". When they reached their destination, each boy took an armload of stuffed escapees. They made a rapid path for Kiki's clubhouse.

When Tommy wrapped on the pink door, the voice on the other side demanded, "State the password."

Tommy answered, "Bounty."

The door opened to Joey on the other side, who ushered, "Make haste. There are hunters afoot."

Scuttling in behind Tommy, Cody said, "Appreciated, Frost."

"Save the sentiments, Howlett," Joey dismissed. "Just do your job and keep your word mum."

Unnoticed by the trio of improv performers, one-half of the security team and both Headmasters filled the doorway. They watched the recreation room antics with emotions ranging from tickled to intrigued.

"Are they aware they're leaping between time periods?" Erik put forth.

"Clearly under the direction of Orson Wells," joked Charles.

Arms crossed, Logan shook his head in great jest. "What're you stooges into now? Or do we want to know?"

Removing the detachable roof from the house, the two sets of blue eyes and sole brown peeked out at their onlookers.

Though he had already sensed his father, the activity distracted Cody until he heard his voice. "We're playin' Grandad Gang."

"Grandad Gang?" Charles echoed with a light chuckle.

"Yep," Joey nodded importantly. "All our grandpas going through time and stopping all the bad guys and saving everybody. I'm Grandpa Winston, the regular rich stiff during daytime with the great big house to hide everybody at night."

"I'm my Grandpa Flynn," informed Tommy grandiosely. "We use my super plane to go anywhere we want through time."

"And launch missiles," Erik tacked on.

"Of course," Tommy said automatically. "That's the tender part."

"And I'm Grandpa John. Suave, smart," Cody tossed his long hair and flapped his cape, "and boss."

Logan remarked, "Well, lucky you, Sergeant Suave. The good stuff always skips a generation."

"The boss will find himself terminated if he isn't careful." Going over, Erik lowered and made Cody's dagger jump a bit. "Never reveal your full arsenal. If you're being hunted down for capture, guns are to be expected. Let your blade be the literal ace up your sleeve. To exercise both simultaneously is next to impossible and fatally distracting."

"I know. It's not like the movies," Cody replied. "This was just for foolin' around."

"Speaking of which," Charles interjected, "you shouldn't be using your dagger for play, roughhousing least of all."

"You know your way around a blade," Logan addressed his son, "but we don't want you gettin' so caught up it nicks one of your buddies. They don't heal up in ten seconds."

Cody nodded dutifully at the men.

"I knew that dagger was forged specifically for you." Erik glided finger's through the pre-teen's silk hair and Cody smiled.

Registering his own son's brewing emotions over the talk of sharpened weaponry, Charles moved to retrieve him. "And now that you lads have saved the past, what's say we return to the present for story time?"

"Aw, Daddy," Joey protested, still winding arms around his father's neck.

"Right now?" Cody also moaned. "I was gonna morph into Grandad Ram to give all the babies a check-up."

Cheek to cheek with Joey, Charles advised, "Let them rest after such a difficult journey. They can see the doctor tomorrow."

"And you've got two babies that'll be howlin' for you soon," Logan pointed out.

Charles reminded his son, "And you have one with the lung capacity of two," making Joey perk.

Arms dangling from where he leaned over the front of the clubhouse, Tommy mentioned, "I don't have any babies. Can I stay up?"

"You," Rising to his full height, Erik reached for and scooped up the youngest boy, "have a brother with the lung capacity of the entire nation of Israel." He enjoyed Tommy's snicker. "And I thought you wanted a story?"

"I do," Tommy quickly reassured. "But can't I stay in the Cave until I'm sleepy? Seanie has to practice for his show tomorrow, anyway."

"Of course," Erik granted. "If left in that bedroom by yourself, you'll do everything but sleep."

Tommy only displayed an impish gleam at the undeniable statement.

Only youngster still on ground level, Cody tucked his cape and the other toys away in the correct containers. He then dashed to clamp onto his father's back. Logan gripped his boy's wrists in turn. As the six took their leave of the play space, Joey used Charles' shoulder for a pillow. Tommy kept his head tucked under Erik's chin.

"Jessie smelled really nice," the ten-year-old asserted thoughtfully. "Like a whole field of fruit and flowers."

"Cherry blossom perfume," Cody determined with a whiff of the air. "She's been up here, too."

"You lads are absolutely smitten by Miss Jarvis," Charles noted, delighting in their starry eyes. "Even little Trav."

"Oh yeah." Tommy managed to not roll his eyes. "He can help her pick up some baby-sitting dough."

"Yes," Erik shook his head and patted his back, "unlike you strapping middle school suitors."

"All but my little one." Charles kissed Joey's cheek. "We Xavier men are loyal to our ladies, isn't that right?"

"Right, Daddy," Joey readily concurred.

"Good," said Cody. "More for us single fellas."

"Boy, where do you come from?" Logan wondered.

"You," Cody came back with.

"So long as you know." Logan squeezed his wrist.

The male pairs divided to leave Cody and Joey with their siblings. Tommy inwardly cheered at Erik not stepping into the nursery. The mere sight of his uncle would make Brian ecstatic until Erik attempted to leave and the crying crescendo started. In the Mag Cave, the other men regrouped with Erik. Charles reported a telepathic transmission from his wife, announcing more company upon them.

II

"Here we are." Returning to the living room, Raven placed the silver serving tray on the wooden table between the couches. "Went with a little bit of everything." She resumed sitting between Emma and Hank. "Milk, cream, every sweetener known to man."

"Thank you," a grateful Ashley replied, readying cups for she and her husband.

Beside her, Mason said, "This'll perk me up for the drive. We both had early days."

Kayla asked, "Are you in school as well?"

"Manhattan College." He accepted the saucer and prepared cup from Ashley, "Thanks, baby," then further answered with, "Engineering." He faced the McCoys. "You two are over here at Westchester U, right?"

"Just me," Raven clarified. "Hank's already a doctor, teacher, Ambassador of the Western World."

"Honey," Hank slipped an arm around her, "I told you I'm not putting my bid in until 1970."

"Hello again, Mason," greeted Charles, leading the other two men in.

"Professor," Mason returned the acknowledgement. He stood to shake with him and meet Erik and Logan. "This is my wife, Ashley."

"How do you do?" Charles offered his hand to the young woman in pink and black cocktail dress.

Though given prior knowledge about the Professor's youth, Ashley initially shook with him with some awe present in her features. "… Very well, thanks. I was just telling your wife how mesmerizing your house is."

"Thank you." Charles maneuvered around to link up with Emma. "It suits our needs for the most part."

Emma kissed his knuckles.

"Here are the kids now," Logan announced the arriving pair.

Helping Jessica adjust her shawl, Frank waved. "Hi, everybody."

Ashley immediately got to her feet and the sisters beelined for each other.

"Oh, you're stunning," Jessica insisted. "I told you that dress didn't need tailoring."

"Let me see you in this light." Ashley twirled the teen by her shoulders.

The adults passed around and finished the coffee. The males stood to converse to ensure the women could sit comfortably doing likewise.

"Could I borrow your phone, Mrs. Xavier?" Mason requested. "I want to let my father-in-law know we're headed back."

"Certainly." Emma pointed to the extension on top of an end table.

While Mason went to place the call, Erik said to Ashley, "Your sister is a lovely young lady."

"Yes," agreed Charles. He spoke directly to Jessica next. "We hope you'll join us again."

"She has to," stated Raven matter-of-factly. "I have too many iron rich recipes to try out."

Jessica emitted a glow and Frank looked as if his face would split in two from the grin he formed.

After Mason hung up, the visitors gave their farewells and additional thanks.

"Oh, wait, wait." The proceeding ones stopped at the doorway at the curly haired girl hurrying towards them.

"This is my little sister, Becky," Frank introduced.

The green-eyed child presented them with a sealed container. "I put some apple cake away from you. Take it before it becomes crumbs by morning."

"Becky, you are a peach," Jessie proclaimed gratefully.

Becky gave her the leftover slices as well as a one-arm hug. "It was great meeting you, Jessie."

Frank had to grip self-restraint, wanting to dance an Irish jig right then and there.

On the front porch, Ashley took the container to carry for Jessie. She walked with Mason to the car, leaving the younger two to say their goodnights.

"So, not running for the hills, huh?" Frank began. "Either you're certifiably insane or you had a halfway decent time."

"Neither, I'll have you know," Jessie informed. "I had an incredible time."

Frank replied, "Sounds like your house. Then again, we might just bring the incredible anywhere we go."

Arms finding their way around his neck, Jessie said, "I don't dare doubt it, though we'll have to go many more places. To properly test that theory."

Frank came back with, "You know, I normally dabble in medical and environmental sciences, but you're seriously making me reconsider chemistry." Her wide smile increased his pulse. "What are the chances Ashley and Mason aren't watching our every twitch?"

Jessie countered, "What's the likelihood Raven and Hank are in their own little world?"

Neither needing an answer, their lips joined for hardly a breath's time.

Frank whispered, "Can I call you tonight?"

"If you know what's good for you." Jessie kept a hold of his hand until they could no longer reach.

Staying in place until he witnessed her entering the vehicle, a dazed Frank returned inside.

IIIIIII

When they made it back to their suite, Kayla and Logan stood taking in their little three sprawled on the playmat. With Cody on his side, Mira and Todd burrowed against his stomach and chest. While Logan gathered their firstborn, Kayla collected the twins. Laying them in the large bed, they blanketed and built a pillow barrier around them.

"You comin' down?" Logan asked his wife as she joined their slumbering fledglings.

Kayla finger-combed through their hair. "In a bit."

Logan nuzzled each of their cheeks before going to ensure Maya had not buried herself under moving boxes.

II

Surprised to discover the dark room yet active minds clearly present, Emma understood when she saw a spot of radiation coming from the blanket mound. Going to the bed, she switched on the reading lamp. At the new brightness, Joey peeled back the covers. He laid with Brian beside him and a green flashlight in his possession.

With an air of faux suspicion, Emma questioned, "You're not filling your brother's head with ghost stories, are you?"

"No way." Joey shook his head. "He just loves this." He demonstrated his meaning by activating the flashlight with minute sparks. Brian pointed and cooed with fascination. Joey handed him the flashlight. "I think he wants powers, too."

"I'm sure he does." Emma watched her baby study the flashlight with such intrigue he greatly resembled his father jotting down lesson plans. "However, that's one milestone best unrushed. Speaking of which," getting on the mattress, Emma repositioned Brian to hold to her front, "what you said earlier at the table, treasure, about Laci being your girl, what did you mean by that?"

"Oh," evading her gaze, Joey touched palms with Brian, "nothing, Mum. I was just trying to be funny."

"Sweetheart," Emma cupped his cheek, "you don't have to hide anything from me. Mummy isn't upset with you."

Eying her now, Joey said, "I know I'm not a teenager like Sean, Frank, and Scott, but I… I can't help feeling the way Daddy looks every time you walk in."

"What look do you mean, treasure?" she asked with genuine curiosity.

"His face and eyes light up like the sun's right on top of his head, even at night," Joey detailed. "If he's talking, he'll lose his place sometimes. He never does that in a great big room full of people. But after he sees you and he talks again, he sounds better than ever."

Emma regarded him warmly. "Here I thought that was my imagination. Or more likely, ego."

"Nope," Joey refuted. "You have a special look with him, too, Mum."

"Do I?" Emma peered between her boys, but Brian appeared more content to fiddle with the flashlight.

"Uh huh," Joey smiled somewhat impishly. "Whenever you keep your eyes on him, you stare like he's the greatest man in the world."

"There's no 'like' about that, treasure," Emma boasted. She sent her free arm around him. "I love Laci, too and I certainly see what you see. It's only that I don't want you in any hurry to grow up and fly away from me."

"Oh no, Mummy," Joey reassured, cuddling closer to her. "I'd never fly away from you forever. Laci's amazing, but you're my only mom."

… That's been true, Emma kissed his hair and smoothed the yellow strands, before either of us were born.

Joey held her wrist. That's what Daddy always says.

You rang? The jovial gentleman strolled into the room. Who's for more Ivanhoe? Charles reacted to Brian's spirited wave of the flashlight. Yes, I'm sure you're eager to hear about the sieges and duels. He lifted the tot to hoist above his head. Uncle Erik's boy.

Brian displayed his developing teeth with a shrewd grin.

IIIIIII

As acting bartender, Erik made his way into the parlor with Victor and Logan not far behind him. When the older Frost sisters entered together, the Headmaster promptly asked for their beverage preferences that evening. Victor and Adrienne only wanted colas on the rocks for their upcoming time in Eye Spy. In a spell of civility, Emma accepted a martini from her brother-in-law. Charles came in time to make a disdainful face at Erik joining Logan in beer. Naturally, Erik found merriment in his sibling's juvenile expression. Even the German version of the brew tasted of piss water according to the refined palette of the Professor.

"Gin with half juice, brother," the male telepath requested, running a mildly weary hand through his near shoulder-length hair. "I'm afraid I overdid it with the chardonnay at dinner."

"The third glass was only a half, sugar," Emma comforted her husband while Erik replied, "As you wish, brother."

After he mixed the desired beverage, the metal wielder brought it to the younger Headmaster. Handing it over, Erik swept a few chestnut strands away from and his eyes and offered a brief message to the side of his head. Allowing his telepathy to rest, Charles mouthed his appreciation for the gentle solace.

Upon detecting Kayla's approaching mind, Emma quickly noticed the discomfiture implied by the current pairs. The Headmasters sat in their chess chairs, she and Adrienne one loveseat, and Logan on the arm of the one across with a standing Victor only a few inches away from him. As if acknowledging the new girl in school to join their coveted lunch table, Emma scooted over and beckoned the other female instructor. Kayla took the spot between her and Adrienne while Logan moved to get his wife a drink.

"I'm glad this evening went so favorably," Emma spoke. "It meant a lot to Frank."

"We all know how he gets when there's a new girl on the horizon." Kayla took the light rum splashed with lemon juice Logan delivered to her. "But I can see why this one has him so excited. Jessica seems to have a good head on her shoulders."

Adrienne commented, "Her father's clearly made quite the name for himself among restauranteurs."

"And his children seem anything but directionless," Charles noted.

Victor said, "Pretty little doll, too."

"A vision," Erik seconded.

After a long swig of his drink, Logan voiced the room's shared thought. "That little mannish nightlight better not fool around and knock that girl up."

The resulting expressions ranged from uneasiness to heavy dismay. Most of them downed their cocktails in a rush to begin a second round.

IIIIIII

Within the tranquil surroundings and absolute silence of the Mag Cave, only the desk lamp lit the resting child's face. Adjusting the soft throw over him, Sean dragged his right hand through the deep black hair and down the thin back. He pressed a kiss to his temple, a feat his brother would never allow during waking hours unless terribly distraught. Sean peered back at one of the steel doors creaking.

The den's owner blanketed the pair with his shadow. "Is he alright?"

"Yeah." Sean stroked Tommy's cheek. "He was mumbling and boxing in his sleep when I first got in. Lying next to this kid at night can be hazardous."

Humored, Erik brought up, "You're one to talk. Do you know how many times during rounds I've found you dangling off the bed, twisted in your sheets?"

Sean made a half-sheepish face. "I still do that?"

"From time to time. I've even had to pick you up off the floor some nights. Though you had more pudge on you at one point." When the teenager returned to full height, Erik reached for his stomach. "You are Charles' boy after all." Attempting to pat his belly, the Headmaster felt stone instead of fluff.

Savoring Erik's dumbfounded expression, Sean informed cheekily, "You and Alex aren't the only guys around here who hit the gym. You should have been here last summer when I was working with Sabretooth. And I thought you could go drill sergeant…" Heading out, Sean stopped to give him another look back. "Better watch the tummy jokes around Dad. A little cat tells me he packs a potent punch."

Erik watched the younger male's departure. He only shook his head before going to Tommy.

Back in the studio, Sean gripped his guitar and used Trick's desk as a seat. He spent the next twenty minutes going over strings with his vocals at various pitches. When he transferred over to the piano bench, his fingers blurred dancing across the keys. Soon, his eyes did the same as he had to blink continuously to fight against the haziness. At one point, he thought his mind conjured a mirage. However, the enchanted sight of the slim form clothed in satin turquoise nightdress and matching sheer robe did not fade. Rich brown tresses loose and swaying lightly with her every step, she approached with warm beverages in each hand.

"You," Sean took a brown mug from her, "are a literal Godsend."

"Nope," Maya disputed. "You are. You flew into my town, remember?"

Sean wound his free arm around her middle. "I did, didn't I?"

Maya put forth grandly, "I always knew a redhaired hero would come and take me away from all this."

"And this is only the beginning, baby," Sean vowed in a southern gentleman's accent. "Today Westchester, tomorrow Syracuse, and then the world."

Careful of her own mug, Maya went to her knees on the piano bench, appearing puzzled. "We don't have the world already?"

"I know I do." Sean raised his head and she lowered hers to reach the other's lips. After they managed to inch apart, he wondered, "How'd you know I desperately needed a pick-me-up?"

"You turned down wine for coffee at dinner. A little fact my mom will be happy to hear."

"Glad there's a plus as I descend into old age." Tossing his head back, he chugged until he finished half the caffeinated substance.

An amused Maya remarked, "Yet still too young to buy wine on our own."

"Oh man, did I tell you about the phone guys the other day?" Sean recalled. "One was around forty and the other pushing four-hundred or so." Maya let off a faint laugh at the description. "Took them forever to get there then they had the nerve to tell me to go get my parents."

Though she laughed again, Maya also said, "Welcome to my world. Before my," she flipped her hair, "mega makeover, I kept getting mistaken for thirteen."

"About how old they felt when I told them I'm the guy who'll be signing their checks every month." Maya's face filled with satisfaction. Sean drank more from his mug and appeared wistful. "It was great having that time with the little guys, especially baby man."

The moment she detected something far from joyful in his eyes, Maya touched his knee and nudged, "Sean?"

Staring into the mug for a moment, the redhead faced her again. "All this time, I've been counting down days to our wedding. Now, it's really hitting me that I'm counting down to saying bye to Tommy. Again."

Maya placed her head on his shoulder. "I know."

"I can't believe how much he's grown in three years," Sean said in a somewhat daze. "How much of it I've missed."

"Honey, you did the best you could," Maya emphasized. "You wrote and sent things all the time. When you went back to visit, you only ended up in containment because your parents made you feel imprisoned first."

Sean eyed her importantly. "You really don't blame me for that? Not even a little?"

Maya shook her head. "No more than I blame the rest of our own that they hurt. Tommy saw then who the X-Men really are and so much more since he's been here."

"And there's the even bigger problem." She studied his face and Sean elaborated, "Tommy's not visiting us, Maya. He's home."

Unable to refute that, Maya cast her gaze on the ebony and ivory keys.

IIIIIII

With the women preoccupied by the rapidly upcoming festivities, the Headmasters headed off that morning in Erik's sedan instead of the X-Van. Though Charles felt significantly better than he had the previous evening, Erik still decided to relieve him further by combating morning traffic. Despite his mild protests at being fussed over, inwardly the Professor enjoyed the younger brother treatment. At least for the most part.

Halfway to the psychiatric facility, he heard Erik's voice. "Remember the first birthday we celebrated? The nine of us?"

"Of course." Relaxing in the passenger's seat, Charles opened his eyes. "Seanie obtaining his license on the first go."

"Pizza and cake with the family," Erik further reminisced. "If only we knew then how much we would yearn for such a simpler time."

"Frank's fifteenth will be much the same." Charles then tacked on, "Give or take two or three hundred screeching teenagers." He grew suddenly solemn. "Though there are days I wonder…"

Erik's eyes remained on the road as he wanted to know, "What, Charles?"

"There are days I wonder what would have happened if I didn't allow Seanie to take that call," Charles confessed. "He and Alex were grounded from that drag-racing debacle after all. But Seanie and those pleading eyes. I just couldn't break his heart."

Understanding, Erik came back with, "You would have only delayed the inevitable, Charles. Despite every obstacle, it's clear Maya was fated for him. She didn't steal him away, brother."

"I know that," Charles assured. "And I could not have chosen a greater girl for him if I began the search at his birth. University prepared me for the worst as an educator. But mutant instructor, father, husband- in that order- have been the real learning experience."

"Tracking and skewering war criminals feels like such child's play now," Erik confided. "So insignificant…"

The brothers went into amicable quiet, riding their individual trains of thought.

IIIIIII

On departure from the dedicated swim space, the boy in green trunks scuttled after the girl in peppermint themed one-piece suit. Both distracted by the other, they nearly failed to halt in time to not collide with the significantly taller adult body. In an unbuttoned short-sleeve shirt that exposed his sculpted chest and black trunks, the elder peered under his shades at the zealous youths.

"The word for the day is restraint, young man and lady," Estevan admonished. "Display a little, especially with younger eyes and ears about that may get inspired to gallop through on wet feet."

"Yes, sir," said Collin.

Samantha responded contritely, "Pardon us, Senor Cortez."

With a bob of his head and a sidestep, Estevan excused them. He glanced after the infatuated high-schoolers before continuing into the pool room.

Samantha finished tying her towel around her waist as they entered the kitchen. Collin draped his towel across his shoulder and went to the refrigerator reserved solely for extra summer beverages. He poured two icy glasses of the housekeeper's freshly squeezed lemonade and they sat at the breakfast nook together.

"You want to catch a matinee on Saturday?" Collin asked her. "Tony says Wild Seed's pretty good.

The girl retracted lips from her straw. "I can't. We're going to Scheherazade's House for my sister."

Appearing lost for a moment, Collin wondered, "That Ukrainian girl from Italian class? When did Angel get all buddy-buddy with her?"

"No, that's Sash…" Samantha searched her mind. "Sashenka I think. Scheherazade is a sorority from Angie's school. They're having an event on Saturday and they've been tracking her down to get her to go."

"Ohh," Collin comprehended then thought about something else. "I know she's Prom Queen and all that, but seriously, Angel's into preppy cults?"

Samantha replied, "No, they're into her. And our mom says social clubs are good for connections, prestige, and showcasing superiority."

"Huh, pretty sure that's Estevan recruitment spiel, too."

Samantha determined offhandedly, "Must be an old mutant thing."

Enthused barking preceded the arrival of beast and boy. In tan cropped-leg pants and tucked in emerald t-shirt, Max waved the blue and red disc. Jack jumped at the toy's every movement.

"You better not think about throwing that thing in here," Collin warned.

With an extensive eyeroll, Max informed, "I'm not slow, dum-dum." He turned to the girl in the room with pleasant courtesy. "Wanna play, Sam?"

"Sure, let me change." Samantha stood from the nook and left the eatery.

"Same here." Collin got up next. "Meet you out back."

While Max guided Jack outside, Collin went to his room to swap his damp trunks for briefs. He put on brown shorts and a gray t-shirt. With Estevan home, Collin opted to imitate his brother by tucking in the shirt. He headed back downstairs after pulling on socks and sneakers. To no surprise, he found Max and Jack romping about the backyard entirely fanciful. When he stepped onto the grass, Collin remained at a distance to engross himself in the image.

"Shut up, just shut that damn kid up!"

"He can't help it! He's hungry. We're always hungry."

"You want to waste your fucking food feeding it to him, that's on you. But don't play that weak shit next job. You keep fucking up and I'll make you both disappear."

"Coll?" Jarred by the new voice, he veered to face her. Back in the electric blue capris and watermelon baby doll tunic she had come over in, Samantha regarded him worriedly. "What's wrong?"

Taking her hand, Collin brought her close to his front. "Nothing now."
Samantha closed her eyes blissfully as he kissed near her earlobe.

Collin jumped at the circle of plastic colliding with his back and sent his brother a glare. "Think you're cute, pipsqueak?"

"Sure do," Max replied audaciously.

"So do I." Giving her boyfriend a small smirk, Samantha dipped to retrieve and hurl the frisbee.

Charging across the lawn, Jack took a massive leap to catch it between his teeth.

From above them, brown eyes of unmistakable ire took in their energetic activity. Anne twisted the blinds closed and nearly tore the curtains off their rod bringing them together to further block the hall window.

IIIIIII

Not until the Mercedes came to a stop did the fledgling artist peer up from his current sketch. Through the passenger side window, Joey zeroed in on the head of red-orange. He broke free of his hypnotized state at his father's Englishman etiquette figuratively knocking him on the noggin. All but leaping to his feet, the boy approached the car door. When Laci flung it open, he acknowledged the mother and daughter individually. Julie addressed him kindly and Laci merrily. After her little girl gathered what Julie often referred to as her artistic survival kit, they exchanged cheek kisses.

"Love you, Mommy."

"Love you, peaches and cream." Julie watched her slide out of the car and looked on favorably at Joey carrying both their sketch pads. She waited for them to fully enter the center before taking off again.

To the ecstatic relief of both youngsters, they found the art room illuminated as well as wide open more than an hour ahead of time.

Miss Kendall promptly faced away from where she busied herself at the board. "Joey, Laci?" She spoke as if to tired travelers from abroad. "What are you doing here?"

Laci explained, "Trying to catch up. That's why we came in early."

Depositing their art supplies on their regular table, Joey asked, "We don't have a new project yet, do we, Miss Kendall? We're really behind. We had Jaguar stuff yesterday and we still have birthday presents, wedding pres—"

"Joey, Joey," Miss Kendall cut in gently. "I only meant what are you doing here," she stepped over a few paces, "when you've clearly graduated?"

Able to see the board in full, the youthful pair realized the multicolor chalk did not spell out their latest assignment.

Congratulations

Jones-Broderick Academy Portfolio Contest Victors

Laci Carmichael and Charles "Joey" Xavier

IIIIIII

Dearest Frank,

I want to wish you a happy, healthy birthday and that you get everything you want in the world. Guess what! I won my class spelling bee and got to go on stage for the big one in the auditorium. I didn't win, but I still got the ribbon for being the best speller in the whole sixth grade. I was sad at first, but I'm going to study ten times harder to make sure I win next year. I'm doing the summer reading challenge, too. The goal is to read ten new books and write two paragraphs on each one. My goal is to read twenty. Riah says I may as well move into the school. I told her I would if I could. Our foster daddy says if I stay home, we'll camp out at the book store all summer. He helped me study my spelling and hung my medal up in the living room. Aunt Sandra is nice, too.

Mama is doing really good in the program and she's still trying to get her diploma. We had fun on our last visiting day. She sends her love and birthday wishes, too!
Love from,

Sonia and Ma

Happiest Birthday, Franky!

Surprise! I'm doing my letters all by myself now. Sonia acts soooo smart but I got gold stars in my handwriting all month! Now I can send you letters when I want to. So I guess school's ok. I think I like lunch best but that's cause Mommy fixes it hot every day. Breakfast and dinner too. Sonia does her own hair but I like Mommy to do mine. She buys me dresses and toys too. I have a secret but you have to promise not to tell my sister. I don't call the Robertsons aunt and uncle like Sonia. I call them Mommy and Daddy.

Hugs Cake and Ice Cream,
Mariah

Throughout the reading, the corners of the teenage mutant's mouth steadily curved upward. In addition to the words, the glittery gold stars attached sprinkled the paper in enchantment. When the much shorter body tried with some difficulty to worm through, Frank coiled an arm around his waist. He reeled the tyke over to stand between his legs.

At the letters, Trav noted with slight awe, "You get all the mail now. Like Seanie."

Frank nearly snorted. "Little guy, Sean needs his own post office. My relatives aren't nearly that close. Or generous."

Trav picked up one of the opened envelopes from the coffee table and eyed the sender. "Who's Maria?"

"Mariah," Frank pronounced. He leaned forward to place his chin on the curious child's shoulder. "I met her family when she was four. Right before we got you and Kiki."

"Oh." Trav next wondered, "Are they where you're from in the city?"

"No, they had to move to Pennsylvania," Frank explained. "But we stay in touch. Come on." Gathering his well-wishes, he used his free arm to hoist and prop Trav on his right hip. "Let me take these upstairs before I'm reminded that this is sacred shared space."

On their way out of the living room, a growing lax Trav snuggled into the secure hold.

II

Not trying to chip her manicure even minutely, the petite mutant lass used a pen to drag around the rotary. At the fourth ring, she nearly hung up until the exuberant voice sounded on the other end.

"Good morning. Camille here."

"Camille," Angel spoke in turn. "Hi- Good morning. I got a message from you yesterday. About this Saturday?"

Before she could go on, Camille excitedly presumed, "Is this Angel Salvador?"

Though somewhat used to her name being announced with grandeur, Angel still had to absorb the other female's cheeriness. "Yes, it's me."

"Ohh, I am so glad you called. Did you like your gift basket?"

Angel arched both eyebrows. "Gift basket?"

"You didn't get it yet?" Camille let off a combination sigh and groan. "Wait until I get that woman on the phone. The courier was supposed to leave an hour ago."

"Camille, slow down," Angel requested, trying to comprehend in full. "I really appreciate you inviting me, but I wanted to hear a little more about this. I mean, I haven't even picked my classes yet and we're talking sororities."

"Do not be swayed by the rest. They are absolute vultures," Camille cautioned. "Scheherazade House is reaching out now because by Parents Day next month, the Greeks will be trying to sink their teeth into you as if you amount to prime rib carcass. Especially the way the Kappa Alphas and Zeta Omegas compete for membership."

Angel mentioned, "I've heard the Omegas are the ultimate color clique."

"And the Alphas are color collectors. Fulfilling their rainbow quota as a shiny red apple to Dean Stavros, the Ethics Committee, our most gracious benefactors, the usual."

Reclining in the security chair normally filled by Victor's massive frame, Angel responded with skepticism evident. "Are you trying to tell me your house isn't out to please the exact same people?"

"Of course we are," Camille replied with hesitation non-existent. "We just prefer to do so with our individual as well as collective achievements. Incorporating tokenism for group photographs is as archaic as it is pathetically transparent. I have so much to go over with you, Angel. Please tell me I'll have the opportunity come Saturday."

"My…" Angel trailed when a lower monitor's screen alerted her. Leaning closer towards the control panel made her stiff and void of sound.

"Angel? Are you still there?"

Speaking into the mouthpiece again, Angel told her, "I have to go. See you Saturday."

More than satisfied, Camille sent back, "I'll be the one with bells on."

Angel dropped the receiver before taking her swift leave of Eye Spy.

II

Cross-legged with back to his headboard, Frank shuffled through his mail. He peered at Trav, who laid in slumber not even an inch away from him. Frank massaged the seven-year-old's back as he raised a card that depicted the Mission Point Lighthouse on the front.

Salutations Little Private,

After a luxurious three hours of sleep, I'm starting the day off much better with thoughts of you and a cup of joe loaded with too many expresso shots for FDA approval. I pray this package reaches you in greater health.
Fifteen years old, eh? I suppose it's pretty silly for me to keep calling you Little Private. Whether or not that fact stops me from doing so remains to be seen. If I know one Frank Tolbert, you're not exactly setting off fireworks for this birthday. True, it's nowhere near the anticipation of turning thirteen, sixteen, or eighteen, but don't let that damper you in the slightest. At your age, it's a nonstop countdown to getting older and more than anything, the privileges that come with it. Take it from a seasoned soldier, kiddo. Suck up every bit of good you can get from this birthday until it's bone dry. Hope for the future is important, but never forget to enjoy the present with those who cherish you most. Though I wish I could join you in the flesh, I also began this morning with thirty minutes of prayer for you. Be it near or afar, remember that we have a Father in common that makes us unbreakably linked.

Your namesake had flaws that could fill a novel, but I will give Old Ben credit where it's due. Whatever mistakes he made in the process, he possessed unyielding tenacity and a unique intelligence that allowed him to think beyond the boxes put in place by his society. Right from the start, I knew this to be true of you as well. As headstrong as you can be, your strength of heart is unmatched. No matter your mistakes or regrets, remember that.

Best Wishes for this and all the days of your life,
Steve

Placing the card on his nightstand, Frank next lifted the framed eight-by-ten-inch stretch canvas unwrapped by him moments ago.

"When you're good to others, you're best to yourself."

-Benjamin Franklin

Frank shot his eyes up when his posters and the lighter objects in his room became abruptly animated. Even with two windows up, the unanticipated gust came from the opposite direction. Frank shielded Trav, who remained blissfully unaware. Recognition set in and the city native slowly moved to his feet.

Upon the figure materializing, Frank apathetically informed, "Sean's at work and Maya has Tommy. And if that's supposed to be for her," he pointed to the festive container bound in clear wrap, "you could've tried a little harder than airport gift shop."

"Ice cold, laddie." Trick's hazel eyes twinkled along with the rest of his striking features. "Nice to see you haven't changed a bit, Frankie boy." Taking in the youth's appearance, the elder reconsidered that statement. "On the inside that is. Lord, look at you. An Adonis before my very eyes."

"You want to not wake him up?" Frank indicated Trav. "Charles call you? Or did Sean convince you to remember I exist before the wedding?"

"Neither are aware we're on the same continent," Trick told him. "I'm not here on a mutant mission. I'm here to deliver a gift."

"That at least explains why I haven't gotten so much as a birthday postcard from you."

"Gift's not for you, bright eyes," Trick said offhandedly. "It's for her."

The second the older male stepped away from the doorway, Frank experienced simultaneous stillness, implosion, and plummeting within his chest. Dressed in black blouse and orchid pantsuit, the head of flowing ginger approached in equal awed silence.

"Baby!" She reacted to the boy's sudden lightheadedness and hastened to grab him by his upper arms. Alana examined his face in automatic concern. "Are you alright? When did you last eat?"

"…Mommy." The word came out nearly mute from the taken aback teenager.

Despite her weary traveled form, Alana drew him into a fervent embrace.

"Trick?"

Ready to hover in air without aide of his powers, the petitioned man glanced away from the display.

"Angie," Trick acknowledged the astonished girl happily. "I was hoping you weren't off jet-setting. Oh, this came for you." He handed over the hot pink fruit basket. "We met the delivery boy on—" Trick blinked at her disregarding the basket to a chair in order to fling herself into his arms.