Charles Xavier was a man who always gave credit where credit was due. It was this philosophy that had been a cornerstone of his unexpected, yet treasured friendship with Logan. He was also a man who was rarely surprised, given his status as the world's most powerful telepath. But Logan had a way of turning everything on its head and always had a surprise or two up his sleeve. Their stirring conversation earlier this morning was definitely a surprise Charles didn't see coming.

He had sensed Logan's presence in his office as he wheeled in just before 5:00am. He extended a hearty good morning to his early rising companion. The feral man, he noticed, was preoccupied as he failed to offer a reply. When Logan turned away from the windows to face him, Charles couldn't help the words that came out of his mouth. "You look like hell."

Logan unceremoniously sank into one of the leather chairs that faced Charles desk. The chair groaned under his weight. "I feel like hell," Logan responded. He was surprised he hadn't fall flat as yet, given the hellishly restless night he had. He had laid in his bed, coming to a few decisions, figuring out what he was going to say to Charles and silently cursing all the sense Jubilee made. She had thrown every lesson he had taught her about the fragility of life back into his face. And in the end, he had no other choice but to take her words to heart. He knew that there had to be some type of resolution to his and Ororo's stalemate because he couldn't go on like he had for much longer. So what the hell was he afraid of?

Charles chuckled. "What brings you here at this ungodly hour, my friend?"

Logan fidgeted some, which didn't go unnoticed by Charles. He knew Logan's mannerisms fairly well. The man only fidgeted when he was feeling nervous or was going to ask for something. And he knew how much the Wolverine hated asking for favors. Charles remained calm and took a sip of his earl grey tea, as he waited for Logan to open the conversation.

There was a tense silence as Logan sought to get his thoughts together. "I need ta talk ta ya 'bout a few things," he blurted out. "First off…" He stood and began pacing. "After Hank's done wid the medical side 'o things, I want ta be responsible fer Jubes therapy and trainin'. I don't want nobody over me. I do what I know best without any interference."

Charles nodded, expecting something along these lines from him once he had indicated he wanted to be more involve in her recovery. "I am sure that can be arranged. Quite frankly, you are the best person for that job."

Logan nodded, stopped his pacing and faced Charles. "Good. I also want ta start back my physical education courses. If that's ok wid ya."

The Professor smiled inwardly. This was definitely a good sign. "That is more than okay with me, Logan. As a matter of fact, the Danger Room was upgraded with new training programs I think you will find to your liking."

Logan's brows shot up. Something in Charles' tone told him that the baldheaded leader was always anticipating his return. He decided to leave that one alone. He went over to stand near the French doors leading to the porch which was an extension of the office. His fingers itched to pluck the cigar he had tucked away in his shirt pocket and stuff it in his mouth, but he respected Charles' wishes for him never to smoke in the building.

Charles began to flip through some syllabuses for the upcoming fall semester.

"The old boathouse….what do ya plan ta do wid it?"

Something in Logan's voice caught his attention and Charles looked up from the papers he was reading. "I was thinking about demolishing it. It is an eyesore and does not serve any purpose I can think of."

"What would ya say if I told ya I would like ta buy it?"

And with that, Charles was completely bowled over, He opened his mouth to answer, only to find he wasn't able to form the appropriate words. "You are serious, my friend." Was said more of a statement than question.

"Yeah," Logan said as he heaved a deep sigh. He rubbed the back of his neck. "Been thinkin' 'bout it and made some decisions…" He turned to Charles. "If I'm gonna stay, I'm gonna need a place ta call home."

"The mansion is your home, Logan. I hope I have shown you that, at least," Charles replied.

"Ya have. But…I need my own space…"

Charles nodded understandingly. He felt happiness swell inside him, quite pleased that it seemed as if Logan was done with his wandering ways. His emotional maturity was on full display. Now only if he and Ororo can settle their differences and build a life together they were meant too. "So you want to purchase the boathouse?"

Logan shrugged as he regained his seat. He raised his ankle of one foot to his opposite knee. "I'll need something ta call my own. Can't keep moochin' off yer good will, Chuck."

The telepath laughed. "I assure you, I do not mind. But in regards to the boathouse, I can give it to you, free of charge. And I will also like to foot the bill for the renovations."

"I ain't no charity case," Logan rebuffed tightly, offended that Charles apparently thought he couldn't afford to buy the piece of land. "I can afford it."

Charles held up his hands. "Logan, I am not offering you any charity. I know you are more than capable of covering your financial responsibilities. But you have assisted me in many ways to count and I would like to do this for you as a thank you. I realize that it is not enough for all you have done and I may never be able to repay you. Consider it a gift." When he saw the prideful feral was about to object, he held up his hands. "Please, Logan."

Though Logan showed no outward emotions, Xavier could see them flitter across the feral's usually stoic face. He was positive that his offer had surprised him, as Logan wasn't used to help or gifts with no strings attached being extended to him. Charles made a show of reviewing more paperwork while he waited for Logan's answer.

It came after a few minutes of pacing and nonsensical mutterings. "Look Chuck, all I want is ta buy the land from ya. I can handle the repairs and everythin' else by myself."

Knowing that Logan was a master builder, carpenter and a slew of other things, Charles had no doubts that the boathouse will be a sight to behold when he was done with it. "A compromise then? You can purchase the boathouse and surrounding property for half its value, but I must insist on helping you with the renovations."

Now, Logan was a suspicious man by nature, but his senses told him that the Professor was sincere with his offer. Resolve not to look a gift horse in its mouth, he accepted Charles' bounty. He stood up and leaned over the desk, extending his hand to shake on their agreement. "Ok," he began slowly, "But if ya hire outside help, they have ta follow my lead."

Taking the extended hand in his, Charles sealed their deal. "Agreed. I will start by searching for a reputable construction company and call my attorney to draw up the papers transferring the property to you."

Logan nodded. "Let me know yer price, so I can get things sorted." He glanced at his watch. "I'll survey the property and get a better idea of the repairs ta be made."

"Just give me a list of the repairs that have to made, items you will need, etcetera."

"Ya got it, Professor. Thanks." Logan turned towards the exit, but slowed his gait as he approached the door.

"Something else on your mind?" The uncertainty permeating off his friend was enough for Charles to ask.

Swiveling around slowly, Logan turned and regarded one of the very few people on earth he called friend. He was pretty sure Charles already knew what the cause of his hesitation was. For a few minutes, Logan pondered asking for advice on the one topic that was never far from his mind, especially after the earful he got from Jubilee. Finally with a reserved sigh, he said, "Nah." With that he turned away and walked out.

"Talk to her, Logan." Charles rushed out, knowing Logan heard him.

The Professor sighed heavily, shaking his head. He wished that those two stubborn ones will get their act together. It will sure solve a lot of problems around here.

That enlightening conversation was over eight hours ago and Charles was still in a state of disbelief with what Logan had unloaded. As he waited for his attorney to arrive, he found himself replaying the conversation. Leave it to Logan to always shake things up. The next few months were definitely going to be interesting to say the least.