Author's Note: No, I haven't abandoned my stories, which is surprising, I know. Considering how long ago I started writing, I probably should have just cut my losses. But even though it's been 20 years, my love of all things Rogue/Gambit hasn't diminished. In fact, now I share that love with my own kids, which is hilarious. My oldest child is nearly to the age where she can read this herself, which is ... weird. Sorry to those who have held onto this for so long with no word. I know it sucks to get that far and not have it finished. I make no promises, but I've really been into my writing lately, so there IS hope. I can send the outline - from here to the end of the story - to anyone who wants it. Chapter 15 is complete, and Chapter 16 is under way.
I do NOT have a beta any longer, so if anyone wants to volunteer, let me know!
~X~X~X~X~X~X~
The following morning the first thing Rogue noticed when she woke was that she hurt - badly. Her muscles exuded fire as soon as she tried to lift her arms, and her neck was incredibly stiff from lying in the same position. She felt grimy from sleeping in her uniform all night, and she was ravenous after missing dinner.
With a groan, she slowly raised herself off the mattress and sat up. She had to take a second look at her clock, and rubbed her eyes. 10:30!? She had slept for almost 16 HOURS?! Moreover, Logan had actually LET her sleep that long? No wonder she was starving. But, she wasn't sure if she wanted a bath or food first. However, when her muscles practically screamed at her as she stood, and she got a good whiff of herself, the decision was relatively easy.
Zombie-like, Rogue stumbled toward her shower, barely remembering to grab a towel. The hot water was heaven for her sore muscles and sleep-addled brain, and as she became more alert, she realized she felt a little guilty about spending so much time with Gambit lately. Well, not so much that she felt guilty for seeing him so much, but more so that she felt guilty about spending time with HIM while she had a secret admirer out there who was buying her all kinds of extravagant gifts.
The thought that Gambit could actually BE her admirer crossed her mind again, but she quickly remembered that this secret someone had the kind of access to the mansion that the even the former Acolyte thief couldn't obtain. It HAD to be someone who was either living in the mansion, or had the security clearance to come and go as he pleased.
And speaking of her secret admirer, she hadn't gotten a Christmas gift for him yet! Nor had she really thanked Mandy for her help with everything - especially the homework. She wanted to pick up a gift for both of them, and couldn't believe she hadn't thought of doing so before.
There was also Gambit, who had not only gotten her 3 pairs of very nice gloves, but had also chauffeured her around TWICE, defended her honor like a true Southern gentleman, and had helped her fight off Duncan's crew. She figured she owed him at least a LITTLE something for all his kindness and chivalry. But what?
Unlike Mandy, Rogue wasn't really good at this gift giving thing. The bouncy shop girl seemed to have a knack for picking out the perfect items for everyone. She could probably take one look at Remy and know exactly what to get him. And, since Rogue had no idea who the secret admirer was and Mandy DID, who better to ask for shopping help than the co-conspirator herself?
Formulating a plan, Rogue headed back to her room in just her towel - for once she didn't have to worry about the safety of the other students. It was actually rather nice to be able to be this free and open for a change.
Once she was in her room, Rogue opened her closet for the first time since Friday's limo incident. She'd worn her uniform all day Saturday, and she kept her extra uniforms in her dresser - so she was surprised to see a small box on the floor of the closet. She'd almost forgotten about the random presents that kept popping up. It made sense that someone could have easily placed it in her room when she had left the other night though.
Inside the box were a few small activity books with brain teasers, mad libs, and sudoku puzzles. There was also a small, quickly scrawled note. It read simply, "in case you get bored all alone." With a quick smile to herself, Rogue placed the books on top of the short dresser and finished getting ready. Once she had completed her "beauty routine" using her new makeup, and grabbed the gloves from her secret admirer, she headed down to the kitchen to grab a quick bite and a vehicle.
There on the kitchen island, next to a bowl of apples and oranges, was another large brown shipping box. Curious, Rogue checked the label and rolled her eyes, blushing simultaneously. She shook her head as she grabbed a knife from the drawer.
"I'm gonna develop a complex after this whole thing. Never gonna be able to look at a box again without thinkin' it's for me!"
Noting that the shipping label was postmarked from Bayville, Rogue cut open the large cardboard container and found two smaller packages nestled inside. Small post-it notes on the top of the boxes read, "Open Christmas Eve," and "Do not open 'til X-Mas!"
Pulling out the smaller boxes and setting the large, now empty, cardboard box on the floor, Rogue debated on whether to just open the boxes right now instead of waiting. But, she realized, the least she could do for her secret admirer - whomever it was - was honor his small request to wait to open her gifts.
With a small sigh and a smile, Rogue placed the two small packages - one roughly the size of a shoe box, the other longer and thinner - under the tiny table Christmas tree in the corner of the formal sitting room.
Since Rogue was going to be the only student actually around the mansion for Christmas this year (and Christmas was never really her favorite holiday) she'd told Professor Xavier and Logan not to bother with a tree this year. Instead, the other students had conducted a tree decorating contest with some of the pines and spruces outside. The inside of the mansion was also adorned with a few sparse trimmings and trappings, but nothing like in prior years.
A loud grumble from her stomach reminded Rogue that she hadn't eaten anything in almost 24 hours, and she headed back to the kitchen in search of last night's leftovers. Ororo always made sure to fix up a plate and save it for anyone who unintentionally missed dinner (unless it was made by Kitty, that is). Rogue reached for the fridge handle and finally noticed the large note someone had stuck on the fridge with magnets.
Her name was written on the top in large letters - Beast's handwriting no doubt - and she pulled it down to read while she perused the fridge in search of food.
Rogue, Logan and the Professor are out for the day and Ororo is running errands and doing some grocery shopping to replenish our supplies. Apparently Bobby and Jubilee forgot to do so before they left. She expects to be gone most of the day. I also apologize as it seems I ate last night's leftovers that were meant for you. I've left some money for you in the kitchen drawer so you can order a pizza or whatever you'd like. Please remember not to leave the mansion alone, however. If you need me I'll be downstairs.
"Aw man," Rogue grumbled as she pushed aside a few containers of moldy leftovers and half eaten sandwiches. There was one large opaque dish she didn't recognize, but as she pulled it out and opened it she grimaced at the smell. Her nose twisted up as she turned her head away and walked straight to the garbage to dump the "dinner" Kitty had made earlier this week. Rogue wasn't sure how tuna casserole was really supposed to come out, but it had ended up looking like jello and smelling rancid. Naturally, a LOT of students had "missed" dinner that night.
Rogue sighed and grabbed a few more containers of old and/or moldy food out of the fridge to toss in the trash and realized all that was really left were some miscellaneous vegetables, uncooked chicken, and yogurt cups. She really didn't want to spend a lot of time cooking a meal for just herself, but yogurt and an apple was not going to cut it, and food deliveries almost always took over an hour to arrive.
Just as she reached for the chinese take-out menu and the money Mr. McCoy had left for her in the drawer, the intercom heralded someone's arrival at the front gate. Curious, she wondered if Beast had already ordered food, but as she reached the security screen in the foyer, she was shocked to see Gambit's familiar figure holding his helmet on his hip and leaning against his motorcycle.
As if he knew she was watching him, Remy flashed a winning smile at the camera and waved with his free hand. Rogue bit her lip, but disarmed the automated defenses and buzzed him in, carefully smoothing her hair and adjusting her regular black tank and purple overshirt as she headed for the front porch to greet him.
Remy pulled up carefully since the ground was sprinkled with snow and a bit muddy in places, and Rogue took a moment to put on her best unamused/annoyed expression, crossing her arms and cocking her hip. Once the former Acolyte had killed the engine and removed his helmet again, Rogue put both hands on her hips as Remy smiled at her.
"What in the sam hill are you doin' here?!" she exclaimed, only a twinge of actual anger in her voice. "If Logan finds out you…"
Remy laughed, interrupting her tirade. "Actually, petite, Logan's d' one who invited Gambit." He headed up the front steps, took her hand, and kissed the back of it as she stared at him, slack-jawed.
"Come again?" she finally managed as Remy held the door open for her.
He chuckled again as she walked across the threshold, confusion dominating her features as she continued to watch him and wait for an answer.
"Dat's what Gambit thought. Den he tol' moi dat he was leavin' f'r a day or two and needed someone t' look after you." He reached out and tapped Rogue on the nose as he winked at her, and she swatted at his hand.
"Ah DON'T need a babysitter," she growled. Her arms were folded defensively across her chest again as she glared at him.
"Babysitter, non," he replied as he left the door open and placed his helmet on a nearby entry table. "Bodyguard? Je ne sais pas. (I don't know). D' Wolverine an' your Professor - dey figure mebbe you'd get bored 'round here by just y'self, so dey call Gambit. Strange world, n'eh?"
Remy sat himself down on the fourth stair of the grand staircase with one leg bent and the other spread out in front as he rested his elbows on the stair behind his back. He was sprawled out like he owned the place, and judging by his expression and body language he seemed to feel right at home.
"Ah'll say," Rogue agreed, finally dropping her arms and shutting the door. "Ah figured Logan'd kill ya'll on sight after the all-nighter we had. Ah'm startin' t' think he's been mind-swapped with someone else." She headed back into the kitchen to make a sandwich, unwittingly leaving Gambit to stare at her as she walked away.
Gambit chuckled and followed her into the kitchen, immediately jumping up on the counter as Rogue pulled the jelly out of the fridge and set it next to the bread and peanut butter. He made a face at her selection.
"Y' know, chere, it's still a bit early f'r lunch, but Gambit knows une merveilleux place just outside of Bayville if'n y'r interested.
Without a word, Rogue put the bread, jam, and peanut butter away. Sure, she had shopping to do, but there WAS still two days left before Christmas, and maybe she would be able to do some after Remy left for the day.
"Y'all right t' take mah bike?" He asked, jumping off the counter and heading for his helmet.
Rogue nodded. "Sure, just gotta grab mah coat and wallet - oh, and tell Hank where we're goin'." She paused a moment and raised a suspicious eyebrow at him. "Can ah trust you t' stay here and not steal anything?"
He feigned an X across his chest and gave her his best angelic expression. "Cross m' heart."
Rogue rolled her eyes at him, but smiled as she left the room.
X~X~X
30 minutes later the two were waiting to be seated at a quaint little french style restaurant just on the outskirts of town. From the outside it looked like a total hole, and at first Rogue was severely skeptical of Remy's idea of "marvelous." But, once he'd led her inside, she'd been shocked at the difference.
The walls outside the facility were dilapidated and crumbling, with dirty, darkened windows and a roof that appeared to be barely functional. In contrast, however, the inside was gorgeously adorned in pristine white wallpaper, cream colored tile floors and gold brushed light fixtures. The french style chairs were gilded and had beautiful pale blue upholstery, and the table cloths were a soft off-white. There were golden candlesticks, and a tiny bouquet of fresh flowers on each small table, and the cloth napkins matched the color of the upholstered chairs.
As they waited for their table - a quick word with the maitre 'd and the man had suddenly "found" Remy's reservation - Rogue stared in wonder at the gorgeous interior. It was quiet. Or, at least quiet for a restaurant. There were people talking at their tables, of course, but their conversations were hushed and reserved. There wasn't a child in sight and everyone was dressed in either business attire or semi-formal wear.
Rogue suddenly felt VERY underdressed in her purple top and brand new jeans - at least these pants didn't have holes in the knees!
She tugged at her sleeves self-consciously as a few men and women turned to assess the newcomers. Remy noted her discomfort and playfully nudged her hip with his own.
"Don't fret, petite, y' look fine. Dere's no dress code, just a bunch of stuffy old farts. Dey just don't see too many 'young folks' who appreciate fine cuisine."
X~X~X
They enjoyed a delicious lunch - Remy's 'treat' of course, as he believed it was against a gentleman's code to ever let a lady pay for a meal, regardless of their relationship. Rogue never even got a chance to check prices to pick something reasonable as Remy requested a sans prix (without prices) menu.
Ultimately she decided on a Monte Cristo sandwich with a salad for the appetizer. Remy ordered the Poulet Saute Boivin, and even let Rogue taste a few bites. It was nice to know he wasn't a food prude like Roberto, who once got so mad at Tabitha for eating one of his fries that he refused to finish the rest of her meal.
Then, Remy had insisted on dessert and ordered the Compote de Fruits - fruit in vanilla syrup. It sounded ridiculously simple for how much it must have cost, but when she tasted the first bite, she couldn't help the little "mmm" of delight at the warm, sweet flavors.
Across the table, Remy chuckled as he put a forkful into his own mouth and closed his eyes. "Almost as good as m' Tante's."
"Who?" Rogue asked between bites.
"Tante Mattie Baptiste." He held his fork over the dessert bowl, temporarily lost in thought. "She's kind of like an unofficial member of m' family. Practically raised me and m' brother." He took another bite and closed his eyes. "Dat woman's an honest t' god witchdoctor, but her best magic happens in de kitchen, t' be sure."
Rogue thought about asking more questions about his family, but considering how somber he seemed now, she thought better of it.
"Were you born in New Orleans?" she asked, hoping it would be 'safe' territory.
Remy gave a wry, half smile. "Not sure, t' be honest. Earliest mem'ry Gambit has is of pickin' pockets and scavengin' f'r food. One day, when he was 'bout 7, Remy picked d' wrong pocket - or d' right one, dependin' on y'r point a view."
"Huh?" Rogue stared at him, perplexed, as he savored another bite of the Compote de Fruits.
"It was Jean Luc. He was impressed at my skill - and audacity - and took me home wit' him."
Rogue raised both eyebrows in shock, but managed to keep her voice low. "Just like that? You just went home with a total stranger?"
Remy chuckled in response to her reaction. "He made d' choice pretty easy, petite. Go home wit' him, become his adopted son and want f'r nothing, or go t' jail and get put in d' foster system. Wasn't about t' take d' latter option - Gambit'd heard too many horror stories from d' other street kids."
"Wow," she marveled, snagging another bite of warm, vanilla syrup goodness. "And, it turned out okay? Ah mean, he had to be at least a somewhat decent father if you went t' all that trouble to save him last year…"
Remy put his fork down and pushed what was left of the bowl of fruit towards Rogue. Before he answered, he signaled the waiter for their check.
"It was better d'an living on the streets. I had a roof over m' head, three meals a day, and all the creature comforts Remy'd ever want. We'd train t' … well, t' be thieves, and it wasn't too awful. He had his terms, and I had mine. He was never really a 'fatherly' type, but once m' powers emerged…"
He trailed off, and the waiter thankfully picked that moment to bring them their check, ending the uncomfortable silence.
As the waiter left the table with Remy's cash tucked neatly in the billfold with instructions to 'keep the change,' Rogue picked up her flute full of water and raised it in Remy's direction. With a curious smile, he did the same.
"Well then," she toasted with a small smile, "to crappy pasts, and brighter futures!" and they lightly clinked their glasses together before taking a sip. She was happy to see Remy chuckle from behind his flute, and he stood as he placed the glass back on the table.
"I think that's enough talk f'r now, petite. You maybe wanna go see a movie instead?"
Rogue smiled and stood as well, tucking her chair neatly back under the table and leaving her pale blue cloth napkin on the plate.
"That sounds perfect," she agreed, and she let him lead her out of the restaurant with his hand on the small of her back.
X~X~X~X~X
It turned out Rogue did NOT get her shopping done 'later' as she had hoped. After the movie, they had gone for a ride on Gambit's motorcycle up along the coast - enjoying the mysteriously warm winter weather. Once they'd driven long enough for Rogue's nose and toes to be in danger of frostbite, Remy had pulled off into a tiny cafe for some hot chocolate.
It was clear to Rogue that Remy didn't want to talk any more about his past, and she didn't much care to talk about hers, so they had just enjoyed a comfortable silence while warming their toes by the cafe's fireplace.
She had also learned that Gambit had a bit of a nervous tic about him. He tended to play with his cards - specifically rolling them back and forth over his fingers - when he was anxious or when he sat still for too long. They hadn't been at the cafe for long before he pulled them out and started to fiddle with them, so Rogue had suggested they head back to the mansion.
Rogue had almost missed her curfew of "dark" by the time they got back, and despite her best efforts, Remy couldn't be persuaded to stick around for dinner even if the Professor and Logan weren't home - YET.
The Southern girl had fully intended to go out and get her last minute shopping done the following morning, but Xavier had detected a few new mutant signatures popping up across the country. She had spent the whole of that day with the Professor and Ororo just checking out the leads. Apparently the holidays were stressful on everyone, as Rogue had never seen so many new mutant signatures emerge at once.
There were two new mutant mothers - one with the ability to lull anyone to sleep with a song, and the other to simply lay out a group of items and have them assemble themselves (particularly useful in the kitchen) - who were absolutely THRILLED with their new abilities, and who took Xavier's card in case they had questions about their mutations later.
There were also a few teenagers to check on. None of the kids, or their parents, were very anxious to talk about the new abilities - one to control electronics, the other to 'read' a book by touching it, and another who could make things float - and the parents of all three were rather in a hurry to finish their holiday preparations.
As none of the individuals had any particularly dangerous powers, and all five seemed to be in loving, supportive homes, the three X-Men went home late that evening with only a few plates of cookies and a fruit cake. At least each person had taken a card, and no one had slammed the door on their faces, which was always a good start.
And so, on the morning of Christmas Eve, Rogue dashed out of bed and dressed quickly, hoping to hit the mall before the mid-afternoon crowds arrived. As she passed the foyer, she saw the small Christmas tree on the corner table in the formal sitting room and quickly grabbed her present marked "Open Christmas Eve."
Rogue carefully opened the top of the box for the 24th. Nestled inside was a pair of shiny silver pumps. The heel was wider than a stiletto, and only two inches tall. There was a thick band across the top of the foot, allowing the very tips of the toes to poke through. The band was adorned on the edges with a small line of sparkles, adding to the elegance of the shoe.
The back of the heel was completely enclosed, and adorned with a swirling pattern of sparkles that reminded Rogue of butterfly wings. Finally, another small strap rested over the front of the ankle, ending in a small silver buckle. It was simple, but sophisticated and sleek.
The shoe still wasn't really her style, but she figured she could wear it with the dress she'd gotten from Kitty and Kurt. She also snapped a quick photo of her new shoes and sent it to Kitty. Thankfully, her chatty friend was busy doing some family activity and couldn't really talk at the moment.
Putting the shoes back under the tree for now, Rogue chewed her lip as she glanced at the last present. She REALLY wanted to open that last gift early, despite the big bold letters telling her not to. Sighing, she finally decided that it was worth the suspense to wait one extra day, and moved back into the kitchen to grab an apple and a bagel for breakfast. She figured she'd grab some real lunch at the mall after doing her shopping.
Rogue bit into her apple and grabbed the keys to the X-Van. She was about to head out the door when she sighed, remembering her promise not to leave the grounds alone. The Professor was out, and she knew neither Wolverine nor Beast could be convinced to tackle the mall crowds on Christmas Eve.
Suddenly she snapped her fingers and headed outside toward the greenhouse, remembering that Ororo wouldn't be heading to her sister's house in Jersey until later that evening. Thankfully, the weather witch was still in town for the rest of Christmas Eve, and could probably be convinced to "accompany" Rogue to the mall - once Rogue found her, that was.
X~X~X
It took a little searching, but eventually Rogue located Ororo and practically begged the woman to head with her to the mall for a quick excursion. She decided to stop at Bath and Body Works to get a gift for Mandy first - just a little token of appreciation for her help with the homework, and that first encounter with Duncan.
Ironically enough, while Rogue was finishing her shopping at the specialty store, the Abercrombie and Fitch employee popped up out of nowhere and scared Rogue half to death.
"ROGUE!"
The Southerner in question jumped in surprise and knocked over a display of Christmas scented lotions and bubble baths. It was at least her third clumsy move of the like, and it was starting to grate on Rogue's nerves.
Turning to greet Mandy and regain her composure, Rogue took a deep breath while Ororo immediately crouched down beside her charge to assist in the clean up. One of the ever present employees of the store was instantly doing the same.
"Mandy, hi," Rogue turned to look at the mess she'd made. "I think we must be makin' a habit of this."
The perky blonde giggled lightly as the two girls bent to pick up a few of the bottles. When the mess was neatly restacked, Rogue introduced her friend to Ororo.
"Mandy, this is Ororo, one of my, uh, teachers at the Institute," Rogue smiled as Mandy held her hand out to the white haired woman with a happy grin. "Ororo, this is Mandy."
As the two women shook hands, Ororo smirked. "So you're the co-conspirator of this little mystery. Pleased to meet you."
"Likewise," Mandy replied happily. "And might I say, you have the most GORGEOUS eyes and hair. Seriously, you look like royalty."
Rogue chuckled as her mentor thanked the young girl and the three of them walked up to the counter so Rogue could pay for her purchases.
Mandy snuck a peak at what Rogue had picked out and smiled. "Oh, peach passion! That's one of my favorites! You have great taste!"
"Ya don't say?" Rogue tried to act nonchalant, but was internally excited that she had picked out a gift Mandy would like.
"Oh yeah," the peppy blonde continued as the three ladies finished up and headed out of the store. "Of course, you really can't go wrong with this place. You just have to figure out your flavor."
"Oh?" Ororo looked genuinely curious at the young woman as the three of them headed toward a bench away from the throngs of people walking through the mall.
"Yep! Fruity, musky, floral, woody, oriental. I'm definitely a 'fruity' girl. The sweeter the better." The blonde tapped one finger to her chin as she looked the weather witch up and down. "Now, I know we don't know each other, but I'd guess you're a 'woody/earthy' type, Ororo."
The white haired woman smiled serenely. "Ah, you would be correct. There is nothing I enjoy more than the smell of nature and my plants."
Then Mandy turned toward the pseudo-goth, "You're definitely a 'musky/oriental' type, but I'd bet you're a closet floral girl too, Rogue."
Rogue's cheeks dusted with pink as she cleared her throat, and Ororo tried to stifle a chuckle at her young charge's discomfort.
"Aren't you workin' today, Mandy?" Rogue asked quickly as she tried to change the subject. "Oh, I was, but I got off early. Another girl really needed some extra cash, and they pay almost double on holidays like this, so I let her take my shift."
"That is very kind of you," Ororo smiled, while glancing around the busy mall. The crowds were beginning to make the weather witch feel slightly claustrophobic.
"Are you okay, 'Roro?" Rogue asked, gently touching her friend's arm.
The woman smiled lightly, but glanced around at the bustling crowds nervously. "I believe I just need a moment of fresh air. I know you are usually the one who is adverse to crowds, but the atmosphere here is a bit stifling."
Rogue nodded knowingly. "Ah just need to get one or two more gifts, but ah don't even know what to get. Ah actually was hopin' Mandy might have some suggestions. How about ah sit tight here with her and ya'll can take a breather outside Ororo? Ah've got mah communicator - anything happens and ah'll page ya."
The weather witch appeared uneasy with the suggestion at first, until the clouds - visible through the skylights overhead - began growing darker with every moment. As Mandy linked arms with Rogue and sat down on the bench, Ororo nodded.
"Alright. I must attend to my subconscious before this weather turns sour. Once you know where you are going, you page me the instant you leave this bench and the instant you get to your next location, and I will meet you there. I will be just outside."
Rogue nodded and smiled as Mandy waved and yelled, "Feel better!"
Then, as soon as the older X-Man was out of earshot, Mandy released the southerner's arm and scooted over on the bench. "Man are you in trouble, or is she just extra paranoid?" stated quietly.
"Uh, little of both, actually. It's a long story though, so maybe we can discuss it some other time?"
The small blonde nodded with an understanding smile. "Okay then, so tell me about these gifts you need help with!"
Rogue gave her a tight-lipped smile as she glanced around at the shops, completely at a loss. "Well, first of all, Ah'd like t' get something of a thank you for that secret admirer ya'll have been helpin'."
Mandy immediately bounced with excitement, but clasped her hands over her mouth to keep from interrupting.
"Problem is," Rogue continued, giving the lively young woman a nervous sidelong glance. "Ah don't know who he is, what he likes, or anything else about him. How do you give someone a thoughtful gift if you don't know the first thing about them?"
"Food," Mandy replied immediately with an all too excited smile.
"Food?" Rogue repeated incredulously.
The blonde simply nodded enthusiastically. "Yep! Everybody has to eat, and all guys like food. All you need to do is get him a gift card for any place with food, along with a handwritten note. Tell him how much you appreciate the gifts, even if you don't know who he is - or if you even feel that way about him yet. You can be honest with him. Tell him that you won't know if you're romantically interested in him until you know who he is. You can even tell him to stop buying you expensive presents if you want if they make you uncomfortable."
The southern girl raised her eyebrows at the mall employee. "Ya think so? Won't that be rude, or make him not want to tell me? And what if it's someone awful - like someone ah've fought against before?!" Rogue's mind wandered back to what Kitty had suggested about Pietro, and she paled considerably.
"Well," Mandy thought for a moment, chewing on her lip as she played with her ponytail. "If he really likes you, he'll respect you for being honest, right? I mean, he knows there's a possibility you won't be interested. That's why he's been so careful to hide his identity while he sends you the gifts. He wants you to know that he sees you for who you really are, and is hoping you'll do the same."
Rogue simply gawked at Mandy for a moment before burying her face in her hands. "Oh mah god!" she cried, her voice muffled for a moment before she pulled her hands away and wrung her gloved hands together. "No pressure, right? Good lord, girl, now ah feel like ah've GOT to give him a shot no matter who it is! That aint at ALL helpful, ya know?! Ah mean, what if it's TOAD!?"
The X-Men made a gagging noise, but quickly shook the thought from her head. The Brotherhood boys were certainly NOT well enough off to buy her any sort of gift - let alone ones that cost several hundred dollars.
"Well…" Mandy thought pensively. "If it HELPS, he doesn't LOOK like a … Toad?" The blonde shrugged. "Personally, I think he's GORGEOUS, and sweet, and smart," she snuck a peak at Rogue, who was leaning forward anxiously awaiting more information about the mystery man.
"Aaaand, that's all I'm gonna say!" Mandy finished cheerily before pretending to zip her lips.
Rogue threw her hands in frustration as the blonde retail worker giggled.
"You have no idea how much restraint it's taking t' keep from using mah powers on you right now." The Southerner hrumbled, then continued, "Ah guess that covers THAT gift then. All ah gotta do is figure out how to get it to him."
Mandy quickly raised her hand, "Ooh, ooh, me, me! I'll do it!" The girl sing-songed as she bounced again. "He said he'd come back for more help after Christmas break was over."
Rogue tried to keep her face passive, but she DEFINITELY considered that a clue. She wasn't able to ruminate on it long, however, as the blonde quickly brushed her hands together.
"Well, now THAT'S figured out," she continued. "Tell me about this second person you need a gift for. Girl, guy? Good friend, romantic friend, acquaintance?"
Shifting uncomfortably, the pseudo-goth tucked a piece of hair behind her ear and fiddled with the new gloves from her secret admirer. "Guy. Between sorta friend and acquaintance ah guess? He bought me some real nice gloves for Christmas, and gave me a ride a few times."
"Hmm," Mandy muddled over the information as she noted Rogue's change of posture. "If you aren't great friends, why the gloves?"
With a chuckle Rogue shrugged her shoulders. "They were sort of an … apology present. For kidnappin' me."
"Uh…" Mandy gaped at Rogue for a moment. "I'm sorry, but I don't think we give gifts to KIDNAPPERS, Rogue! Even if he did buy you 'really nice gloves' to apologize."
Rogue blushed a bit as she shook her head. "It sounds worse than it really was, ah swear. Ah was … goin' through something last February - plannin' t' leave the X-Me… Xavier's school," She corrected quickly. "He wanted mah help - needed me t' use mah powers t' save his dad, but didn't think ah'd help him."
The blonde girl raised an eyebrow as she sat on the bench facing Rogue. Her left leg was tucked under her right knee as she put her left arm over the back of the bench. The girls barely noted the throngs of shoppers milling through the mall, nor did they see Ororo re-enter the building as she watched them talking. The weather witch smiled - the skies clear once more - as she walked into a book store adjacent to the girls, content with what she had witnessed.
Rogue's back was to the bookstore (and Ororo) as she watched Mandy's reaction. The X-Man wondered if the happy go lucky valley girl would be as judgmental as her teammates about her encounter with Gambit last year, or if she would be as understanding and open-minded as she seemed to be.
"Well," Mandy finally replied pensively. "Would you have? If he'd asked you nice?"
Rogue shrugged. "Probably not, t' be honest. We were kinda on 'unfriendly terms' with each other."
"How so?"
The southerner wasn't sure how deep to go into all this mess. Had her secret admirer already filled Mandy in on her status as an X-Man and a mutant. She knew Mandy was aware that Rogue was a mutant - Duncan had ousted her on the very first day they'd met.
But her past was a sordid disaster. Not to mention her complicated … friendship … with Gambit. If she slipped and said too much, there was a chance she would seriously hurt and offend her secret admirer.
"His … boss and coworkers, ah guess?" Rogue wasn't sure how to phrase the dynamics between the two mutant groups without seriously frightening away her new friend. "They were all on a mutant superiority kick and didn't like us mucking up their plans all the time. So we were kind of all on opposite sides so t' speak."
"Hmm," Mandy pondered the new information. "Sounds like things kinda worked out though. After all, he DID come to you for help. But it also sounds like as long as you live with your friends and he works for his boss, you can't really be friends."
He and his group DID work together with us once," Rogue argued, not really sure why the lack of faith in their friendship bothered her so much.
"Really? What was that like? Did everyone just have the same objectives, or was it like a 'let's make up and be friends' situation?" Mandy was paying rapt attention to Rogue, completely invested in the other girl's story and background.
Rogue grimaced. "Actually, ah wasn't there for most of it. It wasn't a big kumbaya or anything - they were just trying to do a job - but but mah friends said everyone made a great team and worked together really well."
"Wow," Mandy commented, resting her cheek on her hand. "It must have been something pretty crazy for everyone to work together then and still not be friends afterwards."
The southerner chuckled. "You're not wrong."
"Did this friend/not friend of yours work with anyone you know personally? Someone who could give you some insight?" Mandy was really considering every facet of this gifting situation.
"Well, Logan - the teacher who brought me back here after the first gift - And Sab- er, Mr. Creed. But those two are mortal enemies. Ah still can't believe the three of 'em managed t' work t'gether without killin' each other. Course, Logan wouldn't let Creed get in the way of rescuin' me, so…"
Rogue stopped suddenly, turning bright red as she stared at Mandy like a deer in the headlights.
Mandy was silent, although both her eyebrows were practically touching her hairline as she blinked rapidly. Finally, she forced her expression back into a neutral one and pursed her lips.
"It uh, it sounds like a fascinating story that you'll have to tell me about some time, but let's focus on the here and now. What does this guy like? What are his powers?"
Taking a breath of relief, the X-Man smiled slightly and shifted more to face Mandy. The girl had responded to that distressing bit of information MUCH better than Rogue had anticipated.
"Only thing ah know of is playing cards and motorcycles. Ah thought about getting him some cards, but it seems cheap and impersonal after the gloves he gave me."
"Okay!" Mandy got excited and shifted again, sitting cross-legged on the bench face Rogue. "What does he play with the cards? Poker? Or does he collect rare playing cards? Or is it like a Pokemon thing?"
Rogue laughed aloud, the idea of Gambit playing with Pokemon cards was so uncharacteristic she couldn't hold it back. "Sorry. NOT Pokemon. Ah imagine a lot of everything else though - mostly solitaire or poker, but mostly he just blows 'em up."
When Mandy gave her a confused look, Rogue elaborated.
"He's a mutant too. His powers involve blowin' things up."
"Ah," Mandy nodded in realization and smiled. "So yeah, investing in nice playing cards might not be the best use of your money. Okay," the blonde continued, undeterred. "Where is he from?"
"Louisiana - New Orleans."
"Ooh!" Mandy's eyes danced with excitement. "Okay! That gives us something to work with! Is he close to his family or friends there? Do you know?"
"I don't really know, but last time ah saw him, he didn't want to talk much about 'em." Rogue was careful to leave out their lunch, movie, and ride up the coast. She wasn't sure how the perky blonde would react to the 'pseudo-date' she'd had with Gambit. "He's loyal to 'em, but doesn't have the best relationship with his father. He's really more of a 'loner,' like me."
"Oooh, the bad boy type? Long leather coat, sunglasses, gloves?"
"Oh yeah," Rogue nodded, smiling fondly at the memory of the Cajun in his long duster.
"Okay," Mandy was bouncing again as she positively bubbled over with ideas, "what's your budget?"
"Uh…" Rogue balked. She hadn't gotten that far.
The blonde hardly paused to let Rogue answer before she forged ahead. "So here's some options: decks of cards, poker chips, etc, but it sounds like he'll just waste those anyhow. Wax kit for his motorcycle?"
"Maybe," Rogue pondered as Mandy continued.
"Leather gloves?"
"Nah, he's particular about gloves because of his powers."
"Sunglasses for riding his motorcycle?"
"Definitely not. Ah wouldn't want him t' feel like he should cover his eyes. They're… very unique and ah don't want him to think ah don't like 'em."
"No problem!" Mandy continued happily. "Leather repair, cleaning, and polishing kit for his coat?"
"Ooh! Ah like that idea!" Rogue's eyes lit up. " He's real fond of that coat, but it gets pretty beat up with his… job. Still don't feel like it's quite enough though."
Mandy tapped her chin and bit her lip. "I have one more idea, but it might be too intimate depending on your … friendship." She gave Rogue a skeptical look, but forged on when Rogue inclined her head with interest.
"There's this club called "As You Like It." They have special nights with jazz music and New Orleans inspired food. Their gumbo is really good."
Rogue ALMOST clapped with excitement, but refrained. "That's perfect! Now, how do ah give it as a GIFT?"
The blonde looked around at the increasingly busy mall as she considered the problem. Suddenly, she snapped her fingers. "I've got it - you'll want to do two boxes. Give him the leather kit first. The second box can just have a brochure or a print out for the club with the menu for their Cajun nights. You can offer it as a friendly date or a group outing, whichever YOU'RE more comfortable with."
The X-Men bit her lip but smiled. "Normally ah'd say the people ah live with would never let me go anywhere with him, but things have been … weird lately."
"Really?" Mandy pulled her purse into her lap and pulled out a pack of gum, silently offering a stick to Rogue. "How so?"
"Well," Rogue carefully pulled a piece of the blue gum from the package and unwrapped it. "For one, there's this secret admirer business." She folded the stick into her mouth as she shifted on the bench uncomfortably. "It's all so - ah don't know. I've never…"
Rogue ran a hand through her hair, pulling on the white strands as she pensively chewed her gum. "No one's EVER been interested in me before. My powers, sure, but not ME. Not - not like THAT anyhow. Not me, not with mah powers."
Mandy sighed and grimaced. "Okay, so normally I try not to ask super personal questions before I really get to know someone, but I've just GOT to know since it seems kind of vital to the situation. What ARE your powers?"
Rogue looked surprised, then embarrassed, then ashamed. She'd almost forgotten that she hadn't told Mandy about her powers. She figured the secret admirer would have brought it up, but clearly he hadn't divulged much personal information about her. Once Mandy knew about her powers - about what harm she could do - she knew the girl wouldn't want to hang around or help her any longer.
The southerner dropped her eyes, fiddling with her gloves again as she looked around the mall and avoided eye contact with Mandy.
"It's - its in mah skin ah guess. Ah can't turn it on and off like some mutants can, and, and it can be real dangerous if ah don't stay covered up all the time." Rogue was a little surprised that Mandy was still sitting so close. If anything, the preppy blonde seemed to scoot closer.
"Ah - absorb people. Memories, personalities, thoughts, skills - even powers if they're mutants. And any little touch usually knocks people unconscious, too."
"Yikes," Mandy commented, but she didn't budge from the bench next to Rogue.
"Yeah." Rogue agreed, still refusing to meet her eyes.
"At least I understand why you're so closed off and unhappy now. I'd feel like that too if I was scared to touch anyone," the blonde continued quietly.
"Oh, you don't know the half of it," Rogue confessed, finally making eye contact.
"Well," Mandy smiled, "I've got time. Why don't you tell me about it?"
Rogue looked at Mandy strangely for a moment, then gave the blonde an awkward half-smile and shrugged. "Alright, but don't say ah didn't warn ya."
Almost an hour later Ororo Munroe peeked out of the little mall bookstore to see the two girls still sitting on the bench, laughing. The weather witch smiled, grateful Rogue had managed to make a new friend - who both the Professor and Logan had verified WASN'T Mystique in disguise. Then she headed back to a small table in the back of the store to resume reading her new book.
X~X~X
Rogue sat silently next to Mandy, waiting for the blonde retail worker to absorb the bombshell of information that she'd divulged.
Expecting the girl to balk and hastily excuse herself, Rogue was taken by surprise when Mandy suddenly pulled her in for a hug.
"Are you crazy!?" Rogue squeaked as she carefully disentangled herself and pushed the other girl back. "Ah tell y'all about puttin' a boy in a coma for three weeks and ya go and do THAT?!"
Mandy bit her lip and nodded. "You're right. I'm sorry. Here, I'll go SLOWER for you this time…" With that, the blonde reached out her arms in a comically slow motion, but managed to get one arm over Rogue's shoulders, pulling her in closer.
"Sometimes we all just need a hug, right?" The retail worker posed a question, but it was more of a statement.
In response, Rogue laughed - amused, amazed, and a little afraid all at once - but slowly, carefully, returned her friend's embrace.
Just as the Southerner started to let go of a minutia of trepidation and fear, the girls were interrupted.
"Aw, look guys, the little freak's having a tender moment."
Duncan Matthews was standing a few feet in front of the bench with his hands on his hips. Flanking him were four other former Bayville High football players.
Rogue stood quickly, pushing Mandy behind her.
"Is that your little GIRLFRIEND, mutie?" The older boy jeered. "Looks like this one's got a double dose of freak, huh fellas?"
Beside her, Mandy scoffed. "Oh please, look who's talking. Can we say 'Repression' much?" The little blonde crossed her arms and gave Duncan a pointed look.
With a quick look at the five guys surrounding them, Rogue turned to her new friend. "Mandy, get out of here, now." The X-Man put her hands on her hips and stared down Duncan. "You and y'r goons let her be. She ain't even a mutant."
Duncan narrowed his eyes at the skunk haired goth, then looked the younger girl up and down. "Yeah, MANDY. Why don't you show my pal Griff here around the mall while Rogue and I take a little walk?"
One of the bigger guys with mousy brown hair shifted toward Mandy with a suggestive grin and, while the girls were distracted, Duncan sidled up to Rogue and put his arm behind her.
The X-Man nearly lashed out, but the feeling of something hard and sharp poking in her spine made Rogue pause.
Duncan leaned down and whispered in her ear before she could react. "I know what you're thinking, but do you really want to take a chance and see if I'm bluffing?"
Assessing the situation and the boys possible intentions, the X-Man swallowed hard and forced a smile. "It's okay, Mandy. Ah'll uh, ah'll catch up to you later."
The boys started to guide Rogue away when Mandy jumped up on the bench and announced loudly, "Oh, I'm not going anywhere, and neither are any of you. I don't like it when someone THREATENS me or my friends. And neither does Carl."
The perky blonde smiled brightly and waved at someone behind the three football players. "Hi Carl!"
Duncan and his friends turned to see three burly security guards sauntering up with expressions akin to an angry Wolverine.
"Please. You can't lay a finger on me," the young man scoffed. "You're just mall cops. You don't even carry any weapons."
As soon as Duncan was distracted by the security guards, Mandy grabbed Rogue's arm, yanking her away from the young man's grasp and up onto the bench between them. By this time a few mall goers had paused to watch the scene.
"Boys, meet Carl, Wade, and Bob," Mandy continued without skipping a beat. "They're actually former military. And, with the governor's new 'beat down on crime,' initiative, they are technically UNDERPAID police officers now."
The security guards - who each easily matched the size of Beast - stepped in front of the boys, their arms folded gruffly.
"And they HATE the term mall cop." Mandy finished with a smug grin as Carl seized Duncan by the back of the collar. The blonde girl quickly leaned over and gave the security guard a kiss on top of his balding dark head before whispering something in his ear.
With a nod and a scowl, Carl shook Duncan by the collar. "Come on you punks, I think I'll give you a tour of MY jail before you go see the one downtown."
Suddenly, Duncan threw his arm up and used one of his former football moves to break free of Carl. He grabbed Mandy and pulled her in front of him, holding a knife in front of her chest.
The three security guards immediately stepped back and drew their tasers as Duncan screamed furiously. Two of the four other boys were frozen with shock while the other three immediately bolted through the large crowd that had gathered.
"There's no way I'm going back to jail!"
Despite the wideness of her eyes, Mandy snorted. "You mean you've been before? How SHOCKING?!"
"Shut up you little…" Without warning Duncan's eyes rolled back in his head, and he let go of Mandy, dropping to the floor unconscious.
Rogue stood on the floor behind the blonde with one glove off, staring at his unconscious form.
Wade and Bob immediately pulled out cuffs and secured the two remaining football players while Carl checked Duncan's pulse and looked up to stare at Rogue. "Thanks for your help miss. IT'S A GOOD THING YOU HAD THAT TAZAR ON HAND." He announced loudly enough for the crowd to hear as he hefted the unconscious young man over his shoulder.
"Come talk to me before you leave today," Carl grunted to Mandy with a reassuring smile as the three security guards carted the delinquents away. As the burly men left, the crowd dispersed quickly - either to go back to their shopping or to record and follow the group of men through the mall.
Mandy brushed her hands together, a happy smile on her face once more. "Well, I'd say we make a pretty good team, Rogue!" She turned to high five her accomplice, and her face fell.
"Rogue? Rogue, are you alright?"
The Southerner had sat down on the bench and was rocking herself slightly with her hands on her temples. As Mandy dropped down and touched her friend's back, Rogue put her head between her knees and groaned.
"Rogue, how can I help? What can I do?" Mandy started to panic and looked around for help.
"Pocket… Ororo…" Rogue muttered as she rocked herself back and forth, her hands still on her temples as she kept her head between her knees.
The blonde retail worker quickly fished a small device that looked like a USB drive out of Rogue's back pocket while being extra careful not to touch any skin. She flipped it over a few times and pushed a few buttons before a screen popped up and Ororo's face appeared.
"Rogue is everything…"
"Rogue needs help!" Mandy interjected quickly, adjusting the screen so the white haired woman could see both girls. "She touched that idiot jock and she's having some kind of episode."
"I'm on my way!" Ororo called, and Mandy could see the woman bolt from her chair. The blonde set the communicator on the bench and knelt down next to Rogue, carefully putting a hand on the girl's knee.
"Hey Rogue," the blonde spoke soothingly, "Just um, take deep breaths, okay. She'll be right here."
"Get away from me you mutie freak!" The X-Man suddenly jerked up, shouting at Mandy, but her voice and face no longer resembled her own. Instead Mandy fell back on her butt, shocked to see the boy that had just attacked them.
"Whoa!" the blonde cried out in alarm before Rogue buried her head in her knees again, groaning loudly.
At that moment Ororo ran up to them, looking first at Mandy, then at Rogue. She picked up the communicator from the bench and sat down, placing a hand on Rogue's back much as Mandy had done.
"Rogue? Rogue can you hear me child?" the weather witch called.
The young woman didn't sit up or shift positions, but instead turned her head to snarl at Storm with Sabertooth's eyes and fangs. The girl growled a moment before putting her head back down and rocking harder.
From between her knees, Rogue's voice filtered through, muffled. "Storm!" she moaned. "You've … you've gotta hit me with a lightning bolt or something. Knock me out! Ah can't .. Ah'm losin' control!"
The sheer panic in Rogue's voice made Mandy's face go white with worry as she stood in front of her friend. A few mall goers turned their heads to stare in curiosity at the scene, but otherwise no one stopped or paid them any mind.
"Rogue, you can do this." Ororo spoke strongly and confidently, even as she started to reach for the communicator again. "You CAN control them."
The Southerner sobbed in response, choking on the words as she fought back the torrent within her mind. "Ah … Ah CAN'T!"
"Yes you can, chere!" A familiar male voice called to her and Rogue looked up in confusion.
Her eyes met red on black "Ga - Gambit?" As recognition set in, the X-Man's green eyes suddenly changed to reflect that of the Cajun Acolyte's.
Suddenly, the bench began to glow a bright fuschia and Storm immediately jumped away, grabbing Mandy and putting some distance between them and the impending explosion.
The mildly curious mall shoppers became aware of the potential danger and suddenly a large swath of space cleared in the middle of the mall as the bench began to whine with unreleased kinetic energy.
"REMY!?" Rogue shouted, alarmed at the raw power that was surging through her fingertips.
"It's okay chere," the Cajun soothed, putting one hand on her knee. "Just focus on the energy. Feel it runnin' through your hand. Try to pull it back in - from your fingers into y'r hand and up y'r arm."
Slowly, the bench stopped glowing as Rogue closed her eyes and took deep, calming breaths, willing the kinetic charge to siphon back into her glowing hand.
"Tres bien. Very good Rogue," Gambit beamed. "Now, make a fist and feel it burn out, slowly - like a candle without oxygen."
Rogue held her fists in front of her as her eyes scrunched closed and she took a few shaky breaths.
"Good. Just keep breathin'. Nice and slow." He coached the teetering girl. "In… and out." He smiled as she inhaled and exhaled slowly with his words. "Just listen t' my voice. That's it. Y'r doin' fine petite."
After a few moments Rogue took one last unsteady breath and finally looked up to lock eyes with Gambit.
"How come ya always show up at exactly the right time Cajun?" she asked weakly, a faint smile on her lips.
"Just lucky peut-etre?" Remy stayed kneeled in front of her, both hands resting easily on her knees. He smiled, teasing, but his brow was furrowed in concern.
"Or maybe you really ARE stalking me." Rogue quipped, even as her hands still shook from the raw energy she had just redirected. Her whole head felt like it was swimming in a torrent of emotions, memories, and personalities, leaving her feeling sick and unsteady.
"Maybe just une peur," he admitted with a flippant smirk. He paid no mind to Storm, Mandy, or the mall shoppers.
As Rogue tried to smile back at him, she teetered, falling forward instead. Gambit quickly caught her by the shoulders and pushed her back up into a sitting position.
"Come on, petite. Stay with me," the Cajun called, sitting alongside her on the bench before draping her arm over his shoulders to pull her into a standing position.
Realizing the danger had passed, Mandy and Storm quickly came over to check on their friend. For once, Mandy wisely kept quiet as she followed the others.
"Stormy, go get y'r car. We meet you by d' main doors." Gambit met the X-Men's leader's blue eyes, and despite a moment of hesitation, Storm nodded and jogged off to get the vehicle.
With one arm still around Rogue's waist and the other holding her arm over his neck, Gambit helped Rogue walk in the direction the weather witch had left.
"Not d' best way t' spend y'r Christmas Eve, cherie." Gambit teased as they passed a throng of unsuspecting shoppers. He had to be careful not to let anyone bump or jostle the girl, which made navigating the crowds difficult and slow-going.
"Ha-Ha," Rogue responded languidly, grateful they were moving slowly. Her vision was twirling like a merry-go-round and just putting one foot in front of the other was difficult enough.
Behind them, Mandy finally found her confidence again, and jogged in front, dancing and twirling her hands around wildly to discourage people from getting too close to Rogue.
"Is… Is she going to be okay?" Mandy asked quietly as Rogue's head lolled forward.
Gambit smiled as he hoisted the girl up a little higher. Her feet were hardly moving anymore as he practically dragged her along. "T'ink she's just exhausted. 'Magine all those people in her head gets tres tiresome, n'est pas?"
"Mmm," Rogue murmured in agreement. "Ah jus.. Ah jus needa' sit amin - minute." Her speech was slurred, but the Southerner still tried to steer them towards a bench near the entrance.
Mandy's face brightened. "I'll be right back!" she called, running off down the hall.
Barley paying any mind to the tiny blonde, Remy instead helped Rogue sit down on the bench, turning them so they were both sitting sideways with Rogue's back leaning against Remy's chest. He carefully put one hand over her waist in an effort to keep her from sliding off the bench.
"Thought all d'ose powers were flushed out, petite?" He asked, pulling an errant strand of hair behind her ear as her head leaned against his shoulder.
"So d'Ah," she mumbled almost incoherently in agreement.
"Ya handled it real well, chere - closed 'em off right quick. D' Professor'd be proud."
"Hmm," Rogue was struggling to keep her eyes open as Remy kept a watch out for Storm and the car. At the same moment, Mandy came prancing up with a soda.
"I wasn't sure what kind you like, Rogue, so I went with a Coke - little bit of caffeine and a whole lot of sugar." The blonde smiled broadly as she cracked the plastic lid of the small bottle.
"S'fine," Rogue smiled weakly in appreciation as Gambit helped her sit up and hold the plastic jug to her lips. She took a few sips, then settled back against the former Acolyte, completely drained.
"Sooo…" Mandy started as Rogue fell silent. "Are you two um… friends, or…?"
"Quoi?" Gambit asked, confused for a moment before he looked down at Rogue and back at Mandy. "Oh. Oh!" He exclaimed suddenly. "Uh, no." He held out his free hand to the blonde. "I'm Gambit - er, Remy. Remy LeBeau. We're a.. We're not together. Just friends. Right chere?"
"MmHmm," Rogue murmured in agreement as she tried to nod her head. "Juss frien-s."
"Well," Mandy continued, looking them both up and down from where she was standing with her back to the doors. "I've gotta say, I'm glad you're 'just friends,' because you are YUMMY! It's just too bad I already sent Santa my Christmas list!"
Rogue chortled as she leaned against Gambit, but didn't open her eyes, and Gambit chuckled before handing the soda back to Mandy.
"D'ere's Stormy. Le's get ya home, chere," Gambit suggested before deftly scooping the Southern girl up in his arms and carrying her to the front doors.
Mandy stuck close to them to smile and wave at any curious onlookers, and opened the back passenger door once they were outside.
Remy carefully put Rogue inside the vehicle, and then climbed in himself. "You comin' petite?" He asked Mandy, leaning down so he could see her better.
"I'll catch up with you in a little while. I gotta go take care of some things first and get my car. Oh," she suddenly snapped her fingers and dug into her purse. "Here, take this." She handed Remy a long blue bag with a circular ring around the top. "It's a barf bag. In case she gets sick on the ride home. Pretty sure she turned a little green back there."
Remy tilted his head in appreciation. "Merci beaucoup mon amie. Be seein' you soon."
"Do you know the place, child?" Ororo asked from the front seat as she turned toward Mandy.
The blonde smiled. "I think EVERYBODY knows the place! It's like, the biggest house in town!"
Gambit looked down at Rogue as she leaned against the window, then back at Mandy. "Mebbe Gambit should escort you - just in case dere's anymore trouble."
"Thanks for the offer," Mandy smiled at Gambit. "But I've got all the help I need with this baby!" She patted a small pager-like device on her belt and pulled it off to hold it up. "It's wired into the mall's security with a pinpoint accuracy GPS, too. That's how my security friends showed up so quick."
She kissed it tenderly and petted it. "Ours is a beautiful, forbidden love."
Gambit chuckled at the girl's strange antics while Storm smiled, slightly confused, and Rogue groaned.
Mandy quickly poked her head in the backseat so she could see her friend better. "Hang in there Rogue. I'll see you later, okay!"
The Southern girl cracked one eye open and smiled at Mandy before her head lolled forward and fell against Remy's shoulder. The former Acolyte took the opportunity to pull the girl's seatbelt around her and secure it.
"AWW!" Mandy squealed in delight. "Cute, cute, cute!" The blonde quickly closed the car door, waved, and danced back into the mall as Storm drove the pair of 'friends' away.
X~X~X~X~X
That's it for now. I will probably post again in another week or two if anyone is still interested in the story. Hard saying considering it isn't finished and most of the original fans have probably moved on in life.
I have chapter 15 and half of 16 already written, as well as other parts of future chapters. I would say this story is about 60-65% finished at this stage. Chapters 1-16 are probably the 'build up' 17-25 are the 'climax' and 25-30 are the final bits/wind down. I think I'm being liberal with the number of chapters, but I'm also trying to cap each chapter at 30-40 pages max.
Let me know if I should keep posting updates regularly, or just finish it all over the next year and post everything in one go. I do LOVE the reviews, and it keeps me motivated to continue writing. Thanks to "The Butterfly Mistress" for PM'ing me about my other story, Getting Warmer, so I knew that people actually still cared about these stories.
LOVE & LIGHT,
WICCAMAGE