Weakness

Part III

Multiple Man hovered in the doorway for several minutes, simply watching as Pyro beat the computer console controller in his hands mercilessly, the same scowl on his face as he had had earlier by the pool. Inhaling apprehensively the multiplying mutant knocked gently on the door, entering the room with two fresh beers in his hands. Pyro looked up briefly, his scowl deepening.

"What the hell do you want?"

Multiple Man held out one of the bottles in his hand, smiling cautiously.

"Peace offering?"

The fire mutant sighed quietly, scooting over a little on the couch, accepting the beer as Multiple Man sat down next to him.

"Thanks," he mumbled, taking a sip. Multiple Man too took a drink, looking over at the fire mutant apologetically.

"I'm sorry about earlier Pyro," he said honestly. "Why didn't you just say you can't swim?"

Pyro arched an eyebrow.

"Why do you think?" he replied sheepishly.

"It's nothing to be embarrassed about," Multiple Man said lightly. The fire mutant scowled, pulling his legs up to his chest defensively.

"Whatever," he muttered. Multiple Man frowned thoughtfully.

"So…did you try and learn? Or is it the fire mutant thing? Don't like water?"

"No, I just…" the fire mutant shrugged. "My parents weren't the type to take me swimming and I avoided gym at school cause…well…you know," he bowed his head, lowering his voice. "Dad, bruises and social workers," his tone picked up. "And I sure as shit wasn't going to admit I couldn't swim at the mansion. Not with athletic fuckers like Drake and Rasputin about."

Multiple Man's expression softened. Taking another swig of beer he studied the younger mutant carefully.

"I'll teach you."

Pyro turned to him, arching an eyebrow dubiously.

"It's ok."

"Oh come on, where's the harm?"

"Well…" the fire mutant frowned heavily, unable to think of a reason. Other than the fact he didn't seem to be able to concentrate when the other mutant was half naked…

"That's settled then," Multiple Man downed the rest of his beer, nodding definitely as he stood up. "We'll start in the morning."