Inked

by untouchable hexing witch

Jubilee needs a summer job before starting her college life. As an aspiring artists to be the idea of a tattoo shop isn't so bad. With the perk of having good looking co workers with interesting tattoo's that maybe have interesting stories to go with them, why not? [Jubilay][Amarto][Romy][Xietro][Jonda] [AU No Powers] In shorter Words: The X-men Evo Tattoo AU no one asked for.

13. House of Lies

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O Disclaimer O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

X-Men Evolution and it's Characters do not belong to me. I'm writing this for pure fun and selfish reasons; those being that I want to see all my crack ships do very very naughty things ;)

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O AN O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Hope you all had a spooky Halloween! The next chapter is here and I got to say that I am very proud of this one so I hope you guys enjoy it! It was a lot of fun to write (all 28 pages of it :P) and it pretty much has a little bit of all the ships and that's always good for everyone right? Right! A

Anyways, as always a lot of thanks to the amazing Clamchick (Haha don't worry Romy will always be my number one as well ;) I'm so glad you're enjoying the maturity of all the couples because honestly I'm really enjoying writing them in a way different from most of my other stories. I really think you should reach out to me privately because I think we would have wonderful chats XD I mean they'd probably just be us gushing about Romy but that's a wonderful conversation all on its ow XD Thanks as always for all the love and hope you're ready for Chicken Wings and Alcohol!) and MisdirectionSmoothie for staying with me and showing me some love!

Also HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO THIS BABY! One year came quick but here we are! Thanks for a year of your attention!

Alright, I won't keep you guys waiting any longer. Hope you enjoy and let me know what you think.

Ps: The story is now rated M. Don't worry though, It's not very graphic...yet...

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O Chapter 13 O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Anna walked into the quiet house, something she was not expecting considering Luna was in the house but she wasn't going to question it. She was just happy to be home and in a quiet space considering all the time she had spent at the Lounge.

She grabbed a snack from the kitchen and headed upstairs but instead of going to her room she made a turn towards Wanda's. Her step sister didn't answer at the first knock but by the third she finally heard the low 'come in'.

Once inside she found her at her desk. She didn't bother turning to look at her, knowing that it was her who would have been persistent about coming inside. Anna took a few steps towards her, stopping behind her to take a look at what she was working on.

She was shading in a sketch. It was a crab, at its center instead of a regular crab face there was a skull and it was engulfed in flames.

"That's neat."

"Thanks," Wanda mumbled. "You want it?" She asked, turning it a different angle before moving back away from it so that they could both take a good look at it.

"Nah, I don't think I'm much into fire."

"Then what do you want? It's been a while since I've done any work for you."

"Tattoo wise?" Anna asked and went into deep thought, her hand going to the chain on her neck playing with it instinctively before answering, "Nothing comes to mind."

Wanda eyed the gothic cross around her stepsisters neck before looking away to her hands, "Let's do something with your fingers."

"I use my fingers a lot."

"My point exactly."

"I don't want to have to be careful while waiting for them to heal. I don't think I want a new tattoo but you know what I wouldn't mind? A new piercing. I was actually just teasing Jubilee and telling her that I should have her do it for me."

"What did she say?"

"She seemed nervous but didn't complain when I brought it up."

"I'll have Laura start showing her in a few days, but...bitch I can do your piercing right here right now."

"Yeah, no thanks, I don't want you anywhere near me with a needle. At least not today."

Wanda perked an eyebrow, "Why's that?"

"It just seems like you might have had an emotionally exhausting day..."

"Who told you?" Wanda asked and turned away, putting her pencil on paper shading more of her sketch.

"No one, I saw it. Met up with Laura at the Hg Lounge for her rehearsal with Pietro so she wouldn't be alone with the loser hood."

"Hey, you were once part of them."

"So were you."

"We left for different reasons, I didn't leave them for someone else."

"So are you saying you're still a loser hood? Great now that we have that out of the way you can agree to perform at Nocturnal Madness with me."

Wanda put too much pressure on her pencil making the tip break. "Again with this?."

"Don't you think you've given this 'No I'm not a musical artist' thing a long enough break?"

"No, because I am not a musician. I'm a tattooist."

"There was a time you did both."

"..."

"Look, I could really use your help on this."

"Gambit can't be all that bad."

"Are you kidding? He wants to do a ballad...in French no less. The whole female population would probably want to skin me alive. That's more trouble than it's worth, well that and I don't feel like getting flashed either..."

"Flashed?" Wanda asked, turning to her with a curious look.

"Eh, I'll let your brother tell you that story."

"I don't know if I should be intrigued or scared."

"I'd go with the latter," Anna responded, taking another look at the sketch Wanda was working on. "When are you going to see him again?" she asked and was surprised when Wanda didn't feign ignorance as far as who she was referring to.

"Sunday for shading."

"You alright?"

"Yeah."

"You want to talk about it?"

"Talk about what?" Ah. There was the feigning act.

"The fact that he's still branding himself with you and the fact that you're agreeing to it."

"I had agreed to it before I knew he was the client and besides it's his body, it's not like I can tell him no."

"True, you can't control what he wants but neither can you and you can tell me it doesn't mean anything but ink will always rat you out. You're not drawing fire right now because anyone is requesting it, it's because what's in your heart. The fire burning your desire..."

"If you want me to really consider helping you at Nocturnal Madness maybe it's time to shut up."

"You serious?"

Wanda glanced over her shoulder noting the surprised expression on the pale girl. She shrugged her shoulders, "I'll think about it..."

"I need a concrete answer by the end of the weekend."

"Alright."

Anna nodded and then proceeded to bring her thumb and index finger to her mouth. She moved the fingers in a line across her lips, consider her 'shut the fuck up'ed.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O Thursday O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Laura watched Jubilee half amused and half curious. The younger girl was out in the lobby dusting the frames per her usual but there was an extra spring to her step. She was definitely the most cheerful member of the crew, the only one coming close to her energy being Roberto but there was just something more to her that day. The only other way she could describe it was that there was an extra glow to her.

"What movie did you watch last night?"

Jubilee looked up, her eyes wide as a deer caught in headlights putting herself and the shorter girl in a moment of deja vu from the previous night. "Uh why?"

"It must have been a really good motivational movie if it has you this spunky. I've never seen anyone clean those frames with that type of sway."

Jubilee blushed, "What sway?"

"Your hips are all over the place."

"This is a really good song."

Laura looked over her shoulder at the tallest member, Ray had won the station of the day today so of course he would think that. Before she could comment on it though Roberto went to the counter to stare at the dark haired girl.

"Maybe there's something in the air, this one has been in a pretty good mood too," his head side-tilted to where Ray was.

Jubilee's gaze turned to meet the steel orbs and she felt herself heat up. Ray on the other hand handled the situation very nonchalantly, almost looking bored. "I had coffee this morning."

"You have coffee every morning," Laura shot back.

"I went to that new place around the corner from the training room. They had a decent selection and I added a shot of espresso," Ray shrugged, "I was impressed."

"That does sound like a good day. Maybe I'll go after work and check it out," Roberto remarked and walked away from the counter.

Laura took a last glance at Jubilee before shrugging it off and going back to her own station. Ray stayed in place and glanced over to meet the brown gaze. Her eyes held a spark that sent a shock down his back and his eyes grazed down her form, allowing himself to check her out for the first time that day. When his eyes went back up to her face he found a faint pink hue to her cheeks and he smirked at being caught looking.

Without saying anything else he turned away from her and went back to his own duties. Jubilee resisted the urge to fan herself. It has just gotten a few degrees hotter for her and fuck, she was suddenly craving coffee.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Amara sighed and slunk into a chair in the living room. She then took a look at the clock, it'd still be a while before Jubilee came home from work. To make up for the fact that both had forgotten about their run the day before they had both agreed to go as soon as Jubilee was home.

Lately she had found herself missing Jubilee's company a lot more than usual and she was refusing to acknowledge that maybe it had to do with that fact that she had yet to respond to her friend's dark skinned co worker with the exception of the emoji message she had sent the day prior.

If she was going to be honest with herself she wasn't sure what she wanted to say to him, especially considering everything he had told her about his past. Prior to that she hadn't been quite sure why she was upset at him. Whether it was because he had the gall to ask the question to begin with or because though she would hate to admit it out loud to anyone, there was some truth to his words.

She figured it was the latter, sometimes the truth hurt more than it should, but it was ok because it would be over soon.

Her chocolate covered orbs went to the calendar on the wall. There was a huge sticky note with the words "pageant" and a date written in huge letters. Her thoughts on the matter were interrupted when the phone rang. Within seconds she heard her mother answer it from the hallway.

She heard her greet whoever it was enthusiastically but soon she picked up hesitation and the words, 'No you canceled that', 'it's unexpected', and 'I know it's tradition but...ok I'll work something out. No no It's fine like you said it's tradition…'

Whatever else was said was said in a low enough voice that she wasn't able to listen anymore but a few minutes later her mother walked to find her still sitting in the chair.

"Hey, who was on the phone?"

"Your Nana," she answered. "You know our annual summer family reunion?"

Amaras eyes narrowed a margin, "Yes, it was cancelled this year which is the reason we were able to keep Jubilee over the summer."

"Right, well it's back on and everyone will start arriving this weekend."

"What!? What about Jubilee?"

"Unfortunately I think it will be best to send her home."

"Why can't she stay?"

It was her mom's turn to narrow her eyes, "You know our traditions are sacred. Non blood relatives are not allowed. Especially with your Nana..."

"So I'm just supposed to tell Jubilee that she needs to go home."

"I'm sure Jubilation will understand that things come up. She won't have to worry about her ticket fare, we'll take care of that."

"Mom, this isn't fair!"

"Oh my dear, many things aren't."

"Don't I know it," Amara growled out, getting up from the couch chair and heading for the door. A few seconds later the echo of the door slamming was the only sound inside the house.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

No one paid attention to the chime of the door. They were all too busy cleaning up their own messes and knew that no matter who it was they would have to go through Jubilee anyway. It wasn't until they heard Jubilee's worried tone that everyone looked to the front.

"Amara? What are you doing here? What's wrong?" While asking she made her way through the door into the lobby.

Laura went to the counter and saw that Amara didn't look well. She actually looked like she was on the verge of tears. Soon she felt movement and saw that Roberto and Ray had joined her.

"Hey, sorry to come bother you at work but the sooner you know the better."

"Are you ok?"

"I'm fine other than being royally pissed off."

"What's going on?" Jubilee led her to the couch. The other stayed in place, luckily they were free at the moment so there were no clients around.

"You remember how I told you we have these traditional reunions during the summer. Lasts about a week or so..."

"Yeah, you've mentioned it. It was canceled this year, right? It's why you guys were able to house me for the summer." Amara slowly nodded and turned to her friend, clear anguish on her face. "It wasn't canceled," Jubilee read her expression.

"It was," Amara answered, "but my Nana decided to unexpectedly force it back on."

"When?"

"Family members will start arriving Saturday."

"Wait what's happening?" Laura asked looking confused, "You're having family over?"

Amara nodded, "A lot of family, from out of the country."

"And that's a problem because?"

"I have to leave," Jubilee beat Amara to the answer.

"Leave where?"

Jubilee turned to Ray, "Home."

"What? That's crazy! Why? Can't you guys just share a room?"

Amara shook her head, "The elders in my family are very particular about our culture and traditions. They like to keep things secret, Jubilee can't be inside the house at all. I'm so sorry, Jubes."

Jubilee shook her head, "It's not your fault. I'll call my parents and figure out what day they can pick me up."

"My parents said they'll pay for your ticket."

The two girls started talking amongst themselves leaving the three watching in somewhat confused states. It wasn't until Jubilee got up and said "I should probably call Wanda and let her know. I don't even know if I'll come in tomorrow..."

Ray's eyes widened at the proclamation. Laura also did a double take, "Wait You're quitting?"

"Well I can't work here from California."

"Oh that's right...home is in California..."

"Why don't you just move in with us?" Everyone turned to the dark skinned male of the group. Though the offer was being made to Jubilee his eyes were trained on Amara.

"What?" Jubilee asked.

"Why don't you move in with us?" Roberto repeated. "I mean we have a free room right now anyway."

"What?" Jubilee asked again not believing her ears.

"How many rooms does your place have?" Amara asked, perking a brow. Their place hadn't looked that big when they had gone over but it wasn't like she had gotten a tour either.

"Four. They're not extravagant but they fit the bed."

"But there's already four of you."

"Tabitha left to move in with her boyfriend this last weekend," Laura remarked before turning to Roberto. "That was some fast thinking from you, good job."

"Why do you say that like I'm stupid?" He asked and shoved her which just made her shove him back.

"Are you serious?" Jubilee asked wide eyed.

"If you're not ready to head back, I don't mind," Roberto answered before looking at his roommates.

Laura shrugged, "Having another girl means I won't have to deal with so much testosterone so that's fine with me, plus, we're friends right?"

Ray and Jubilee locked eyes before his eyes moved down to her lips causing the little hairs in the back of her neck to point at end before moving his gaze back to her face.

"That's fine with me."

Jubilee looked away from them to share a look with Amara, "Do you think your parents will be cool with letting me go in that type of situation? They might just want to send me back since I'm technically their responsibility?"

"I could go over again and ask? They seemed to like me." Laura offered.

"You guys are so awesome! Thank you so much and in reality you just have to take her for a week and a half maybe two because by then everyone should be gone and she can come back..."

Whatever else Amara was saying was blurred out as she turned back to stare at the grayish blue watching her. The dread she had felt seconds ago at the prospect of having to leave the area in that much of a hurry was replaced but an excitement and hunger at the knowledge that maybe the next time they played the chances of interruptions were much lower.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

"So how are we doing this again?" Roberto asked moving to the counter to sit on Jubilee's barstool as she tidied her areas up. "Are you moving in tonight?"

"Let's not get ahead of ourselves. Laura still needs to go over and talk to Amara's parents about them allowing me to do that. They'll probably call my parents too so there's a chance that your guy's good offer won't matter anyway..."

"Alright, well if everything goes according to plan, what are we doing?"

"Amara says her family will start coming on Saturday. So I'll spend the night tonight and hang out with Amara since I probably won't be seeing much of her next week. Move in tomorrow?"

Roberto nodded and took a look at their schedule for the weekend. "Ray and I close tomorrow. You open, Wanda and Laura are mid shifts. Do you have a lot of stuff at Amara's?"

"Not really, just clothes and shoes really."

"Why not just bring it with you in the morning. My lunch is around the time you get off. I'll just drive you over to the apartment then and you can get settled while we're still at work."

"Yeah that sounds like it can work, if it all goes well tonight anyway."

"Stop saying it like that," Laura interrupted, her body going in between them to grab the appointment book herself.

"Like what?" Jubilee asked.

"Like there's a possibility for a no."

"I'm just being realistic."

"Yeah, well they say that when you say things out loud you give them more power to come true. Like a jinx. So stop being negative about it…"

Jubilee's mouth parted to retort but before she could say anything Roberto's voice interrupted, "So Jubilee's moving in tomorrow," he stated.

"Yes," Laura answered, "Jubilee is moving in with us tomorrow." Both of them turned to look at Ray who was printing out the sketch his next client had agreed to. Feeling their gazes he looked away from the sketch to stare back.

His eyes went from one to the other before saying, "Jubilee's first day living with us is tomorrow, check."

"Thank you. See there you go, three good vibes countering your bad one," Laura remarked and walked away with the appointment book in hand.

Jubilee watched her, mouth parted into an O before finally getting a hold of herself, "But I wasn't being negative I was just being real…"

"Just stop before you rile her up," Roberto remraked and threw her a smile. "Everything is going to work out fine…" he added and spun in a circle on her chair.

She watched him and thought to herself that she hoped he was right, because afterall she wasn't really ready to go back home. Her eyes went back to the back corner of the room to see their tallest member inspecting the printed stencil. No she wasn't ready just yet...

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O Friday O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Jubilee found that the last twenty four hours had passed in a blur. It almost seemed like she was in a dream whenever she thought back to what had happened. Laura had driven her home after work and at the sight of her the Aquilla's had given her a warm greeting and invited her to dinner. She broke the news about knowing the situation they were going through and offering her solution while eating dessert. At first they had seemed surprised and a little annoyed about the fact that Amara had brought a third party in but she had to hand it to Laura. She could bullshit.

A zoom phone call later with her parents, the Aquilla's and the deal had been done. While walking out Laura made a comment that surprised both younger girls. That it really hadn't mattered if things had gone wrong because due to the fact that both have recently graduated it they seem to put themselves in this bubble where they considered themselves minors but the reality of it was that Jubilee was 18. She could do whatever the hell she wanted but she was glad that no toes were stepped on and that all parties had agreed. She then bid them a good night and a promise to see them the following day.

After getting over the shock that Laura definitely had a point but girls went back inside the house to enjoy their last night together in a while. Knowing that it might be a while before they could do it again they decided to stay up late, contemplating the big moves being made.

Hers was moving in with her co workers giving her access to a certain someone. Amara was super excited for her but she honestly wasn't sure how the situation was going to go. Yes they now had easier access to follow through with their beneficial friendship but now that it was easier would it be less appealing? Jubilee supposed she would have to wait to find out.

Amara had spoken about dreading having the family over. They were super traditional and strict and although she respected the customs she wasn't sure if she was planning to keep them once she was out of her parent's house. To make things worse she was stressed out about the fact that, them being over was going to mess with her pageant training now that it was just a few weeks away.

That's how they spent their last night together. Movies in the background, boys and vents. It had been a good night and Jubilee found herself a little saddened knowing that her best friend wasn't going to be just a door away.

So she was happy that she was with her at the moment for moral support as Roberto opened the door to the apartment.

"You guys already saw this part so let me just walk you to the bedroom and you can settle down," he remarked as he walked past the living room space towards the hallway. A few seconds later they had walked down the opposite hallway from the kitchen and came up on five doors, "The bathroom is at the center and end of the hall. The rooms closer to it are the girls room and the ones right here before are ours. Ray and I thought it's be a good idea to have our rooms first in case we ever hear weird noises."

"How gentlemanly of you," Amara commented.

He winked at her, "We try," and as if suddenly remembering that their friendship wasn't exactly where it was a few weeks ago he quickly looked away. "I'm on the left, Ray's on the right. You're the room next to his. Laura made the bed with clean sheets for you and Ray moved one of his dressers in there to fit your stuff. It's not too big but he said something is better than nothing. I just put in the hangers in case you want to use the closet..."

"That's...really nice of you guys."

Roberto shrugged, "Least we can do to make you feel comfortable. I'm going to let you get settled while I grab something to eat before heading back," he nodded at them before going in the opposite direction.

Both girls watched him until he made the turn into the kitchen before moving and Jubilee found herself hesitantly opening the door to the room. She had expected to see a few reminders of its formal occupant but was surprised to see that it was pretty bare.

"Looks cozy," Amara commented looking around. The room was definitely half the size of her guest bedroom at the Aquila's, barely fitting the twin bed in the corner and the small two drawer dresser next to it. At one end was the closet with a few hangers and there was a long mirror at the corner. "Do you want any help unpacking?"

"No it'll be quick, either way," Jubilee answered, heading to the bed to put her suitcase on top. "Are you going to stay and hang out with me tonight?"

"Can't, I have to go help get things ready for the arrivals tomorrow. "

"Oh that's right."

"Yeah, will you be ok?"

"Yeah, yeah I'll be fine, Laura and I think Ray will be off work in a bit."

Amara's eyes widened at the information, "Oh really? Ray will be home soon..."

"Shut up!" Jubilee whispered and threw a look over to the opened door. "Nothing is going to happen!"

"How can it possibly not with you guys in such close proximity?"

"I don't know!"

Amara did a small squeal which Jubilee tried to ignore until she went over to her and shook her excitedly.

"You that psyched to get rid of her huh? I don't know if that means we should be worried..." Amara turned quickly with a surprised expression, neither of them had heard Roberto sneak up on them. He had a sandwich in hand and took a big bite afterwards, chewing slowly as we watched them. When he was done he gave a big swallow, "I'm heading out, just thought I'd say bye."

"Oh wait! Um...do you think you can give me a ride home?"

Roberto's eyes widened at the request, "You're not staying?"

"Can't, just wanted to be here for the initial look around. Moral support and all."

"Oh, yeah sure. I can take you. Jubilee you'll be ok on your own?"

"I don't have much of a choice right? As long as this place isn't haunted I should be fine."

"Well now that you mentioned it..." Jubilee turned to him, eyes going wide, "Just kidding," he added quickly and gave a small chuckle. "It's safe."

"Then I'll be fine, you're going to be busy all week?" Jubilee asked her friend.

"Most likely, but I'll let you know when I can get away."

"Alright, I'll text you later then."

"Bye," Amara answered and made her way towards the door. Roberto let her go first and before following gave Jubilee a glance. He shook his head at her as she wiggled her brows up and down suggestively.

A few minutes later both Brazilians were buckled in and heading down the road.

Roberto was racking his brain as far as how to break the silence but before he could come up with something she beat him to the punch.

"Thanks for giving me space, I just needed time to process everything you shared with me and everything I'm going through right now . Your past... It sucks and I'm sorry you had to go through that. I'm even more sorry if you somewhat felt like I forced you into the position to tell me..."

"You didn't. I told you because I wanted to and because, well it connects, doesn't it?"

She stayed quiet for a moment, "Kind of. Yours is much worse, it wasn't a choice."

"Why is it?"

Amara turned to him, "You don't know how she gets. Getting those trophies consumes her...it feels like when I get those, it's the only time she's ever proud of me."

"You shouldn't have to starve yourself for validation from anyone , especially not a parent..." Roberto responded, voice thick with annoyance and the grip on the steering wheel tightening.

Amara shrugged and looked away, "It's only three months out of the year. I can manage..."

"You shouldn't have to..." Roberto repeated.

The rest of the ride was in silence with the exception of the soft music playing on the stereo. Roberto stayed quiet because he had nothing nice to say in regards to the situation and speaking out of term would only get him back in the 'ignored stage' of this friendship. Amara stayed silent because she could feel the waves of annoyance coming off him.

The song soon finished and one in a foreign tongue started. Amara could pick up a few words so she was able to recognize that it was in Spanish. Not being able to help her curiosity she asked, "Do you understand this song?"

"Hmm…" the question brought him out of the daze he was in and turned to the stereo. "Yeah, my parents made me take Spanish in highschool and it actually stuck. My playlist is on shuffle but I can change it if it bothers you…"

"No I don't mind it...what does it say?"

He focused on the words of the chorus grimacing at how relatable they seemed to be at the moment.

/Ten cuidado con el corazon aqui abajo en este mundo material te defiendes o te van a destrozar...por nada/

The line repeated and Roberto spoke over the words, "Be Careful with the heart down here in this material world. Defend yourself or they will destroy you...for nothing."

They stayed quite again letting the soft song play in the background with those words repeating over and over again. When he stopped the car he stopped a house over from her home, something about the way her mom had stared at him last time told him she wouldn't have liked seeing him drop her off so he thought he better play it safe. Amara unbuckled her seat belt and got ready to go but before she could open the door she felt his hand on her wrist keeping her in place.

"Let me help you. We can train hard, eat healthy...there's a better way."

"I've tried..."

"You've never tried with me," he interrupted.

They stared at each other for a few seconds before she nodded. "We'll try..."

"You'll come to class on Tuesday?" His voice was hopeful.

"If I can get out, yes. This is going to be a hard week to try and do anything."

He nodded and finally released her. His warm touch slowly slipped away from her and she opened the door to leave.

"Good night Amara."

"Bye Roberto. Thanks for the ride."

"Any time," he answered and oddly enough, though he had used that line many times before with many other girls, he found himself believing it the most. She could call him any time, rain or shine, and he would find a way to be there for her. He watched her until he couldn't see her over the hedges from the neighbors yard.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Luna giggled as she spun herself in a chair.

"Keep that up and you're going to fall on you as...butt."

The only answer she got in response was another giggle. Before she could reprimand her again her phone started to ring. She took a peek at the screen, a picture of herself with Pietro who was making a stupid face appeared.

"Hello."

"Hey, where you at?"

"At home with your child."

"I thought dad and Raven were watching her?"

"They were but they had to get going and asked if I could look after her while you got here."

"FUCK!"

Wanda frowned at the curse, "Why what's up?"

"I'm getting held up at the club. The wrong order came in so I'm dealing with some shit over here."

"You need me to watch her for the rest of the night?"

"Yes...and no, is Kurt home?"

"No."

"Anna?"

"Nope."

"Damn it...shit...I was actually calling you because I needed you to do me a favor."

"What?"

"I looked over the Nocturnal schedule and I have an opening for a band. I got a call earlier that there's a local band show at one of the bars downtown. Guys trying to make names for themselves but still pretty low key so I was going to see if dad could keep Luna longer so I could go but with the shit going on here I can't. Do you think you can go for me?"

"You want me to go scouting?"

"Yeah, you know what I like to see in bands. Whether you like it or not you're still part of the Brotherhood, you're the best person for the job."

Wanda sighed, "What do you want me to do with Luna? It's not like I can take her into a bar with me."

"I know! I know! Let me try and figure some shit out...fuck I'll call you back." Before she could respond the click of the dial tone rang in her ear.

Wanda frowned, she really didn't want to get involved in the band's situation. She had given up that part of her life the day she had received the call about John being in the hospital but then again, what was good for the Hg Lounge was good for Scarlet Ink.

She cursed and then groaned again as she heard an "ohhhhhh"

"Fine fine money in the swear jar..." she responded and started going through her contacts. She needed to find a sitter.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Wanda almost ran to the door when the bell rang. When she opened it she wasn't disappointed.

"Ok, Where's the fire?" She left the door open and turned walking inside allowing the person who had answered her SOS to walk in.

"It's in here," she answered walking into the living room area of her home.

Laura followed admiring the outfit she was wearing. Ripped black jeans, a black shirt with a deep v-neck showcasing her tattoos and her dark red trench coat. "Where are we going?"

Wanda paused midstep, "I...have to go take care of some stuff for Pietro for the Lounge, you...get to stay here and do me the biggest favor ever."

"What's tha..." before she had a chance to finish the question there was a squeal and a small little body zoomed by her. Luna laughed as she bumped into her aunt, throwing her off balance for a moment.

Wanda avoided eye contact with her friend, instead taking an interest in the clock on the wall. "I need a sitter..."

At the words Luna turned to Laura, though she had seen someone with her aunt she hadn't realized who it was and as she caught sight of the brown haired young woman her eyes widened and she became somewhat shy suddenly gasping Wanda's leg like a lifeline.

"Don't be rude and say hi. You act like you never see her," Wanda commented trying to get the death grip off.

"Uh...hi Luna," Laura finally greeted squatting so she could be eye level with the little girl. Luna's cheeks took on a pinkish color as she muttered a hello back.

"Laura's going to watch you till dad or pop pop come home alright? Why don't you go get your favorite toys so you can show them off to her."

At the words the little girl got excited again and ran off. When she was out of the room Laura stood back up and glared. "You can't do this to me!"

Wanda turned to her friend at the exclamation. "Why what's wrong? You've been around her plenty of times!" She responded thinking about the times she had baby sat Luna and made Laura go with them to get ice cream or hang out at the park. They were rare times but both had seen each other enough times that she couldn't understand why the both got so shy.

"Never alone! What am I supposed to do with her?"

"Watch her, play with her, watch a movie. It won't be too hard, she entertains herself most of the time anyway. Come on, you know I wouldn't be asking unless I had no other choice."

Laura looked like she was fighting an internal battle with herself but eventually mumbled, "Fine."

"You're the best! And literally you just have to stay until anyone comes home. They'll take over."

"Ok."

"Help yourselves to whatever you want in the kitchen. Her bed time is ten, she likes to be read to but I'll try and be back before all that..."

Laura mouth parted to speak but before she could say anything Luna came wobbling in with her hands full of toys. She put her little hands out, dropping them before the short tattooist grinning proudly.

"Alright Luna. I got to run an errand for your dad but Laura's going to take care of you. Don't cause trouble!" She gave the blonde head a quick kiss and started making her way out. "Call me if you need anything..."

"O...Kay..." Laura answered and both girls watched her leave. When the door closed Laura's eyes slowly went to the side to see that Luna was already looking at her. "So..." she started awkwardly making her way down to sit on the floor. "What do we have here?"

At the interest Luna smiled widely, taking a seat in front of her and grabbing at a toy. "This is my dolly! Her name is Lu Lu…" Laura's eyes widened and she nodded as the little girl continued. It felt like it was going to be a long night.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

As soon as Wanda closed the door to the house and turned to walk down the front steps she came across someone heading to the house, "What are you doing here?"

"Pietro called me and said he needed me to watch Luna. Code red."

"Change of plans, you're coming with me," Wanda grabbed onto the pale arm.

"But what about Luna?"

"I got it covered," she answered, going towards her car which hadn't been parked inside the garage. As they neared a shadow started approaching the house.

"I'm here! Sorry I didn't answer your text but it sounded like you needed someone right away so I got dressed and had an uber drop me off!"

"How many people did you guys ask to come over?" Anna asked, nodding at Jubilee in greeting.

"Shit, you didn't answer so I didn't think you were coming over. Hey Jubilee."

"Oh, yeah that was my bad, did you not need me anymore?"

"No, I got someone else, but you know what...why don't you come with us? What we're going to do now will be a new experience for you," Wanda answered and nodded for her to get inside the car.

"Uh, what are we doing?" Anna asked, still not knowing where exactly they were off to.

"Going to the Underground bar, Pietro needs us to scout out some bands and see if we see potential in any of them to fill a spot in Nocturnal Madness."

"That does not sound like something I want to do," Anna remarked and made to pass her by to head for the house but a stronghold on her wrist stopped her.

"Come on! It'll be fun!"

"I'll pass."

"Well if you don't want to go that's fine but don't go home."

"Why?"

"I got Luna, a very interesting sitter."

"Who?" Anna asked, perking a brow.

"Laura."

Anna shook her head and grinned, "Really? I don't think she's over that blind date thing you pulled before and now you're springing this on her? She's going to kill you."

"Maybe but you saw the messages! She didn't have a horrible time. Let's just leave it alone and see what happens." Anna sighed but opened the door to the passenger seat of Wanda's car and got in. Wanda then turned to Jubilee, "Coming?"

After a slight shrug she opened the door to the back seat, "Why not, I was just being a loner anyway."

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Jubilee held in the cough as cigarette smoke filled her lungs. Wanda had barely opened the door to the bar and smoke poured out. She expected it to be worse inside but to her surprise the smoke cleared as they took a few steps.

"Alright, if you two want to find a good spot to sit I can get drinks. You want something alcoholic Jubes?"

"If you don't get us caught," she answered, looking around paranoid as if someone was about to come point at her and yell that she was not 21.

Wanda rolled her eyes, "You'll be fine," and with that made her way to the bar. She was surprised to see that it was pretty packed but considering that Pietro told her a few bands would be playing maybe she shouldn't have been.

It was about ten minutes later when she finally was first at the bar and to her surprise before she could say anything three drinks were placed in front of her. More surprising was the fact that it was the drinks she was planning to order.

Strawberry Daiquiri, Green demon and a Sherry Cobbler. "I didn't order..."

"They did, and they're already paid for..." the bartender remarked and nodded behind her. Wanda turned and her sapphire orbs widened a fraction. One of them smirked and winked while the other glanced at her with an expression mix between surprise and longing.

/You're my antimatter/

She sighed, her eyes narrowing as she watched them for a second. She wanted nothing more than to refuse the drinks but there was no point in wasting them. She turned back to the bartender, took the drinks and mumbled a thanks. After a minute or so she made her way to the table Anna and Jubilee had claimed.

"There's a new development," she started but Anna interrupted her.

"We're not alone."

/My antithesis/

"How did you know?"

Jubilee took the drink Wanda offered her, "Squealing girls passed by saying something along the lines that 'they're so hot' and 'I can't believe they're here'. When we turned to see who they were talking about...well it seems like you already know."

/My Lucifer/

Wanda nodded and turned to her sister. Her eyes held annoyance in them and were somewhat narrowed as she stared at the corner they were opposite of, prompting her to take a quick look over her shoulder. She was surprised to see that two women were now at the table. The blondes were laughing, Remy's lips were moving, his eyes casted downwards as his fingertips tapped at his phone. John was returning her stare. Wanda rolled her eyes before briefly looking at her unfinished work at his shoulder and turning away.

/With every bone, I hate you/

"Did you get a schedule of the performance times?" Wanda asked, trying to ignore the burning annoyance inside of her and making sure not to look their way again.

"Yeah," Anna answered and slid it towards her. As Wanda took it she felt the vibration of a phone, she took a quick glance at her phone making sure it wasn't Laura and was happy that it hadn't been her phone at all. She glanced across the table, it had been Anna's. When she didn't reach for it she was going to bring it to her attention but before she could her step sister spoke. "The first band is going up in ten, they'll be on stage for about thirty minutes and then they'll be an intermission before the next band and they have that type of schedule for the rest of the night."

/Deeply abominate you/

Wanda nodded, "Do we know any of the bands?"

"Know them know them no but there's familiar names."

"Like?""

"The Fantastic Four, The Kree, the first band is the Tunnelers."

"Ray's old band?"

Wanda's mention of Ray peeked the younger girl's interest. Anna nodded in answer but when neither girl said anything about it she couldn't help asking.

"Ray was in another band before?"

"Yeah, he was with them for a year before joining up with us."

"What happened?"

"I think they were being too aggressive about wanting to make it out in the world when he was just trying to have fun. Well that and girl issues."

"Girl issues?" Jubilee echoed, making Anna turn to look at her with a light grin.

"Scaleface."

Before she could say anything else music started and all of them turned to the stage. Though there were a few people on the stage Jubilee couldn't help zoning into a young woman with blue hair. She must have been wearing some sort of paint on her skin because with the lighting she had a greenish glow and from where she was she could also tell she wore a contact in just one eye. It was yellow, making it look like a reptile's eye.

She was curious as hell to ask questions but noticed that both goths were watching the stage intently. Guess they really took the scouting duties seriously.

Lucky for her thirty minutes came and went quickly, could have been because she had been so focused on the blue haired woman on the stage who had an odd appeal to her. She played the guitar and Jubilee found herself thinking that there was something attractive about women playing instruments and for a brief moment wondered if Ray was attracted to that. She shook her head trying to get the image of herself with a guitar out of mind.

Now that Anna and Wanda weren't looking at the stage she asked, "Who's Scaleface?"

Anna's mouth was in a straight line as she finally looked at her phone. At the question her eyes went up to look at the younger girl and that small curious smile returned, "The reptilian girl who was just on the stage," the tone she used was suggestive that she already knew, which well she did but she wanted more than just that.

"Bad break up?" She inquired seeing that neither was going to offer her any more information.

"I don't think it was bad,'' Jubilee was surprised that it was Wanda who answered. "I've worked with Ray for more than two years now and I've never seen him be rude to any or the girls he brought around."

Jubilee's eyebrows perked at the way it had been phrased. How many girls had there been? She thought to herself.

"Ray is really private. He hardly gives enough of himself to his friends, people that he's around all day everyday so for him to open up to someone romantically...it just doesn't work."

"Tabitha thought she would be the one to break him from it but well, you've met her. She's with Bobby now so you can see that it worked great," Anna added.

Jubilee nodded in understanding, she wanted to ask another question but before she could say anything all girls were started by drinks being placed on their table.

"We didn't order these."

"Je sais mais il semblait que tu avais fini." (I know but it looked like you were done)

/My Lucifer/

"Nous allions bien... jusqu'à maintenant), " (We were doing fine...until now) was the answer as emerald green met red on black.

/You are my antithesis/

Remy brought a hand up to his chest in faux pain, the action making his button up fuschia shirt scrunch inwards causing more exposure of his neck where the buttons were opened. Anna rolled her eyes before her eyes went to the exposed skin, "What are you..."she stopped asking the question, making his eyebrows perk and his lips curled upwards in a grin.

/My eternal foe/

"Scouting." He answered the unfinished question.

"Damn It! What was the point of dragging me here if he was going to send you guys?"

Remy shrugged his shoulders and he didn't bother turning to Wanda keeping his eyes on the green eyed beauty, "It was a last minute request. We had just gotten to the lounge to enjoy the show when he told us what was up…"

/With every breath, despise you/

"An update would have been nice," Wanda remarked, crossing her arms in front of her chest and sparing a glance at the table where John was, "I wouldn't have wasted my time..." she added, eyes narrowing.

"Don't worry Scarlet. They're both with me. Fans of mine who decided to stop by our table. He's enjoying this as much as you are..."

Wanda's eyes moved away from the orange-haired male and turned to his best friend. Her lips parted but before she could say anything the music in the overhead speakers stopped and the crowd started screaming as the next performers got on stage.

"Maybe you stop by our table the next intermission," he winked at them and walked back to his table where John did in fact look miserable.

/Live to antagonize you/

"So much for fun," Anna grumbled and moved her attention to the small stage as the music started and her hand reached out to grab the new green drink.

/My Lucifer/

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Laura held her breath and listened intently. She could hear the sounds of footsteps get closer. Just as she was about to peek over the couch there was a loud shout of, 'I got you!' followed by a giggle.

"You got me!" Laura repeated putting her hands up in the air in defeat. "Aww man, you are so good at this game," she announced. In response Luna stuck her chin in the air proudly, a gesture that had Laura thinking of the person who had passed on the movement.

"You find me next?"

Laura looked at the clock on the wall, "Actually I was thinking we could watch a movie and get you ready for bed?" There was a deflated "awww" at the words. "Come on! It'll be fun! First let's put all your toys away..." she started picking up toys from the floor.

Eventually Luna started to help and after all the toys were in both their arms they made a trek upstairs with Luna leading the way to her room. Once they got there Luna showed Laura her toy chest where they were depositing what they had.

"I would have thought you had a tv..." Laura mumbled more to herself as she looked around the room. There definitely were enough toys, from easy bake ovens, kid size kitchens and a doll house equipped with a small car, this little girl had it all except for a tv. "I guess we can put the movie downstairs."

Luna shook her head while going to a mini shelf with books and movies. She grabbed two items and walked over to her, "I watch movies in bed..."

"Right, but it doesn't seem like you have a tv…" she looked around even more curious as she noticed something, "Or a bed."

Luna let out a giggle, "this is my toy room not my sleepy room," and with that simple explanation she went to hold her hand. Laura let her drag her out of the toy room and they made their way a few doors down.

Once she entered the room she knew exactly whose it was. The walls were silver gray and furniture dark black in a modern style. So elegant as the appearance he portrayed especially when he was in his business attire. It was a 180 from his room at the beach which just emphasised his personal growth from his younger days.

Luna let her hand go and went over to a small drawer. She then proceeded and looked through it bringing out a very pink pajama dress.

"Help?" She asked walking back over to her.

Laura nodded and walked her over to the bed so that she could sit to be at her height. Working together they got her outfit off and into her pajamas.

"Ok! I'm ready!"

Laura took that as her queue to put the movie in and walked over to the entertainment center to get everything ready. When she reached it she saw multiple DVD's on the counter. They had different days on them but shared a similar feature, the words 'X-Men performances'.

"Daddy watches those a lot..."

"Does he?" Laura asked, turning to her.

The little girl nodded frantically before giving a small yawn. "You're his favorite singer."

The words made her face feel hot, "I'm sure I'm not," she responded and took the disc inside the dvd player out and put the movie on. Then she went to sit beside the little girl on the bed, ignoring the way her heart was fluttering in her chest and the small girl's words repeated in her head.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

The invitation to go over the next intermission had been a pointless one. Not just because they would have never thought of actually going over there but also because the person who had extended the invitation was not even sitting at the table.

With the next intermission came the change of music as the audience and bar patrons waited for the next performance, and it was a change that Gambit and company must have liked because they were now in the center of the dance floor. He had not been lying about his words earlier, something he showed by not just taking one girl but both to dance with.

Wanda eyed the trio nonchalantly. Being around Pietro and the club had put her in situations where she had watched people do much worse than what they were doing. Remy was sandwiched in between both blondes, one hand on the hip of the girl in front of him, the other in the air holding the hand of the girl rubbing her boobs all over his back.

Again, she had seen much worse. Her eyes closed and her nose scrunched as a memory of some of those worse things came to mind. After a few seconds she turned to look at her companions. Jubilee was looking away from the trio, a pretty little blush on her features. She really was an innocent little thing, Wanda thought to herself. To distract herself from the scene she instead looked at the table the Tunnelers had sat at.

She watched them for a few seconds before turning to comment to Anna that maybe they should go and introduce themselves to the bands that already performed but stopped without saying a word at what she found. She had lived with the fiery southern female more than half her life now and knew every nervous tick, facial expression and action of the pale girl.

Wanda let her sapphire eyes go from head to toe on her stepsister. Legs shaking from side to side, lips quirked in a tight grin, thumb tucked under her chin and green eyes glowing dangerously. It was safe to say that she was upset.

/My Lucifer/

"What's wrong?"

"Hmm…" the piercing green eyes turned to her.

"You look annoyed."

"It's nothing." Wanda gave her a disbelieving look, winning an eye roll in return. "If you must know...my friend Risty is just being annoying." At the words Wanda watched her tap on her phone. It recognized her facial features immediately and opened up. The page on the screen was her messages and she could see multiple messages that had been sent but had not been answered. She quickly got out of it to go to a social media page instead but Wanda had clearly read the initials R.E.L.

"What's wrong? Is she inviting you to another country concert?"

Anna looked away from her at the question, deciding to look at the crowd around them. Most female eyes were at the center of the dance floor still watching the trio, most slanted with envy.

"No, it's not that. I don't think there's any concerts either of us want to see until after the summer."

"Bummer, I'm a little more freed up with Jubilee on the staff and I could have possibly gone with you guys. It would have been nice to meet her."

Jubilee turned to them looking from one to the other, "You have friends that the other hasn't met?"

"Don't forget we haven't always been stuck together. Risty was one of my friends from down south when I was a kid. She found me on social media last year," Anna answered, not looking at either girl but deciding to take the last drink of her green demon.

"They've gotten close again and Anna will travel out to meet her to go to out-of-state concerts. I'm sadly always busy and never get the chance to go to the metal ones. She's a country fan too though but there's no way in hell I'm going to those. It's a shame though because she sounds like fun and Anna always seems to come back in a good mood when they hang out."

Jubilee's eyes went wide, "Wow, you go to Country concerts?"

Anna's shoulders shrugged upwards, "The South is in me somewhere." Her eyes darted to the center of the room for a few seconds before turning back to the stage where the next group was setting up.

/My Lucifer/

Jubilee nodded and she turned to the stage too. After a minute or so Wanda decided to do what she was originally going to do before her concern had taken over, "I think I'm going to go over and introduce myself to Tunnelers and the Kree, want to come?"

"Pass," Anna answered and ignored the notification of a new message coming through. "But take Jubilee," She added and looked up to meet surprised brown eyes. "I think she'd enjoy meeting a few female musicians and the Tunnelers have a lot."

"You want to?" asked turning to her.

Jubilee's eyes went wide being taken by surprise but after a few seconds recovered and nodded, "Sure…"

"You'll be ok by yourself?"

Anna rolled her eyes, "I'm a big girl, I think I'll be fine."

"Alright, then we will be right back."

"Have fun…" Anna answered and watched them go on their way. They reached the destination within a minute and her eyes stayed trained on the expressions of the band. They didn't seem hostile or annoyed so she took it as a good sign.

"Here's your refill, please enjoy."

/My drug and benediction/

Anna pulled her gaze away to see a new Green Demon set before her. Her eyes narrowed and the waitress left before she could refuse it. She turned to the table opposite of them across the room. John's eyes were on the Tunnelers table and Remy and company were now back at the table. The Cajun nodded to whatever one of his 'friends' was saying.

/Bilateral crucifixion/

She frowned and pushed the drink away from her. She then watched as the lips on the red eyed male across the room curled upwards in a grin. His face started to turn in her direction but before she could meet the odd eyes she looked away.

/With my eternal foe/

This was definitely not the fun night she had been promised.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Laura turned her wrist trying to be very careful not to move her body so as to not wake the little girl who had made herself comfortable on her lap. 9:30 and no one had come home yet. Actually Wanda hadn't even checked in on them but maybe that was more of a testament of her faith in her.

Luna had knocked out at about halfway through the movie so now she needed to think of a way to get her off her lap and comfortably under the covers. She thought of a strategy and after a few seconds of hesitation put it into action moving her little head and hoping she would stay asleep. No such luck. After the small lift, Luna stirred and her blue eyes opened to stare at her tiredly.

"Hey...I think it's time for bed now," Laura whispered, moving her more easily now that she was awake.

Luna shook her head, "But you haven't read me a bedtime story."

Laura smiled, "I don't think you have the energy to stay up for one of those."

"I will, I will!" The little girl argued and grabbed the book she had left at the edge of the bed.

Laura sighed but took the book studying the cover. A princess slept on a bed with a spindling wheel behind her. "Alright, here we go...once upon a time..."

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

Pietro walked into the house rotating his shoulders. They were aching, whether from how tense he had been throughout the day or the loads of alcohol he had helped unload he wasn't sure.

He wasn't surprised by the quiet that enveloped the house. Wanda would have put Luna to bed at a reasonable hour unlike some of the other sitters of the house. What he was surprised about was the lack of mess when he walked into the living room. While most of them enjoyed watching his little devil they weren't fond of cleaning up after her. He took his time making his way upstairs grabbing a snack before he headed up to Wanda's room. The door was closed and after a few knocks he found himself opening the door slowly. There was no one there.

He closed the door lost in thought. After a few seconds he looked down the hall and noticed that the light in his room was on. He perked an eyebrow in curiosity, Wanda never really went into his room. They all had an agreement to pretty much stay out of each other's space, the only reason he had opened her door just now was because he was expecting his child to be in there.

He made his way over and as he got close he heard a familiar voice. A voice he wasn't expecting.

He stopped at the doorway, careful not to make any noise. His eyes landed on his golden hair child first. Eyes closed, arms sprawled out in an odd angle in which she took over the whole bed and would make it difficult for him to get in later. At her bedside was Laura Kinney, her brown hair down hiding her face as she looked down at the book she was reading out loud.

"And they lived happily ever after ..." she finished and he heard the small thump of the book closing.

He then watched as her body position changed, her head moving to stare at the girl in the bed. "So much for staying awake you little jerk," she murmured, her voice filled with affection. "I wonder who you get that from..."

"Her mom, definitely her mom," he answered the rhetorical questions making her look over her shoulder wide eyes at being caught.

"Hey..." she greeted after recomposing herself.

He nodded in greeting before nodding sideways motioning her to come outside so their conversation wouldn't wake Luna up.

She got up slowly to not make any noise and gave Luna one last glance before walking out of the room behind him. He didn't start speaking until they were past the hall starting on the steps to go down stairs.

"I'm a little surprised to see here."

"Wanda said you guys needed a sitter, didn't you send her to do band scouting?"

Pietro stopped at the bottom of the steps making her stop one step before. Even with that added height he was still taller than her.

"Yeah I did, and she's going to kill me because I got so busy I forgot to tell her there was a change in plans."

"Oh?" She asked, raising a brow.

He shook his head, "I'll let her fill you in. I'm sure she is going to vent. Thanks for watching Luna though, I hope she wasn't too much of a hassle."

Laura found herself shaking her head, "She wasn't, we had a good time."

"I see you got her to clean up after herself, you'll have to tell me how you did that..."

There was a shrug, "I just asked," she answered with a chuckle.

"Then it's safe to say she likes you more than us because she never does it when we ask."

Laura shook her head amused and took the last step down so she stood beside him.

"Have you eaten?"

"Yeah, I ate before I got here."

"Oh...I was going to offer if you want to eat and hang out for a while but I understand if you need to head out."

"I don't need to head out," she was surprised at how quickly her mouth answered for her. His eyes widened and she looked away, "And I don't need to eat for us to hang out."

"...so you want to hang out?"

"Sure, I mean we have to go over our performance anyway right?"

"Yeah! You just reminded me that I had a few ideas I wanted to run by you! I left my notebook in the car so if you want to find a spot on the couch. I'll be right back."

He dashed out of the house then and she looked at the closed door for a few more seconds before moving and heading towards the living room. Once she was there she stared at the couches trying to decide which one to sit on. She could sit on the single sofa and avoid the beach situation.

After a few more seconds she found herself sitting on the big couch. She was making herself comfortable when she heard the door open again and after a minute or so he returned. Two waters in one hand and a notebook in the other.

She had purposely stayed a little bit farther from the middle thinking that that would give them enough space but he surprised her by sitting right beside her leaving the other half of the couch empty.

"So I wrote down a few songs we can cover. If we had more time I would say we could work on maybe making something original but there's just no time. Having to make a score, having the guys practice..." he opened the notebook and brought it closer to her.

"And not to mention all your duties with the Lounge, the fact that you're performing, hosting and your daddy duties. You're a busy guy."

He stayed quite at this prompting her to glance away from the paper he was presenting her. His sapphire orbs were on her studying her carefully.

"What?"

The question brought him out of whatever trance he was in and he shook his head, "Nothing...um...just look over these songs and see if you'd like to do any. I'm sure you'll be familiar with them..."

"Actually before I look at these, I kind of wanted to talk to you about something."

"What's up?"

"I don't think I can perform with the Brotherhood." His eyes widened at the statement and his lips parted but before he could get anything out she interrupted him, "It's nothing against you guys as a band or anything, I just literally can't see myself performing with the band..."

Pietro stayed quiet for a few seconds, "Alright, um...this is probably something that we're going to discuss with Professor Xavier and my father because I don't know if we can switch around..."

"I'm not trying to switch with anyone," Laura interrupted him, making him look back at her. "I'm still performing with you, I just don't think we should use the Brotherhood as back up."

"Then you want to use some of the X-men?"

"No, actually I think we should just wing it as a duet. You know how to play the acoustic guitar right?"

"...Yeah."

She nodded, "Then let's go in that direction."

After a few moments of silence he nodded. He then grabbed the paper with all his notes, crumbled it up and threw it over his shoulders, "Alright, then let's start over. Acoustic is going to be pretty soft, you sure you want to go that direction?"

She watched the paper in mid air before turning to him, "You didn't have to do that!"

He shrugged, "It's irrelevant information now."

"Well now I feel bad that you did all that work and I didn't even look at it," she mumbled and got up to pick up the discarded paper.

He grabbed her arm stopping her in place while he gave a low chuckle, "Don't be dumb it's fine. I'll pick it up before bed..."

She rolled her eyes and pulled on her arm to get out of his grip to pick up that damn piece of paper. His hold on her was firm though and didn't budge. While still laughing he pulled harder on her arm and because she was not expecting the force she lost her balance and started falling forward towards him. He caught her easily enough but the close proximity made his laughter stop, his breath getting stuck in his throat as the piercing hazel green eyes met with his own sapphire orbs.

He sat her down besides him, their knees touching in their new position with hardly any space between them while his arms stayed wrapped around hers. His lips parted the beginning of an apology coming out but before he could he was silenced.

His eyes widened and he watched her eyes close as the pressure of her soft lips pressed against his. He expected her to move after a few seconds, realizing what was happening between them but when she angled her head in a way that would make their sideways kiss more comfortable he closed his eyes.

He got lost in her scent, her nose bumping into his own as her mouth opened and welcomed his tongue. He explored the warm opening, picking up on the taste of the blue raspberry jolly rancher which reminded him that he had a bowl full of them besides his bed.

His arms slid up her arms and shoulders. His thumbs grazed her collar bone, an action that he mentally noted made her shiver. They kept moving up, finally making a stop to cup her face. His thumbs rested on her jaw and his fingers fanned on to her checks, barley grazing her silky locks.

This new position made him feel like he had more control of the kiss, therefore he angled himself and pressed her closer to him. Something that he believed she enjoyed as a soft moan escaped into his mouth.

He smirked into the kiss and got lost deeper in everything about her.

Laura felt the curve of his lips and wished she could pull away and slap away the smug expression she could only imagine on the silver haired male. Only thing was his lips felt really good on hers and his tongue was doing some amazing things inside her mouth.

For a brief moment in their lip lock she thought back to the kiss they had shared at the beach house. That kiss had seemed so innocent and timid. Nothing like the kiss they were sharing now. After the thought she let herself get lost in him. The feel of his hands on her face was soothing and soon she found her own hands reaching out for him.

She couldn't do much in their weird sitting position though so they eventually stayed in her lap but after a few minutes of this, with both of them sneaking breaths in between pecks her neck was starting to ache in the awkward position.

After a bit she pulled away. A small sigh escaped him at the loss of her touch but before he recovered from his daze to comment she surprised him by putting a palm at his chest and pushing harshly. The action caused him to go back, his back crashing into the couch cushion. His lips parted but before any words could make it out he was silenced as her lips found his yet again, the weight of her body suddenly shifting on to him.

'Much better' was the only thought running in Laura's mind. Her neck wasn't curaved anymore but straight as she kissed him head on. Her hands were gripping the top of the couch besides his head trapping him in between both arms and her legs were straddling him at his waist.

This definitely made kissing him easier. It also made his excitement, which happened to be pressing into her thigh much more noticeable

She didn't have much time to think about it as she found herself making a small mewl. Pietro had decided that it was the perfect time to bite into her lower lip. Not only had the small act made her release the small moan but her chest arched back making her lower half press closer into him. The simple action caused friction in between their bodies and she felt him quiver underneath her.

She couldn't blame him, she felt a tingle down her own spine and soon her hips rolled again and again in a figure eight on top of his own. She could feel the liquid heat pool in between her legs worsen at every circle but she didn't care. It felt so good and she didn't want it to end.

His lips were soon back on hers. The open mouth kisses were sloppy and wet, as his teeth bumped into her own before digging themselves into the soft flesh. Her hands were gripping on the couch arm now to stabilize herself and help press deeper into him. Her legs tightened around his waist as her hips kept swaying into him.

It wasn't until he shuddered again, his moan echoing in her throat that she realized something. She was definitely aware of where all the parts of her own body were and he was obviously under her, but there were parts that were unaccounted for. This was usually the part where his hands should be on her behind helping her grind away. She pulled away from him helping both catch their breath but more importantly she was going to find out where his hand placement was. She found them by his side on the couch and that's when the horrible realization sank in.

She had just been grinding on him till no tomorrow all on her own. He was obviously enjoying it. The moans, the way his fingers were digging into the couch and the hardness pressed in between her legs were proof of that. That however didn't change the fact that she had just jumped the very sexy guy she had previously told she didn't want anything with.

Fuck.

Her eyes widened and her lips parted but suddenly the click of the door opening seemed to echo in the otherwise quiet room. In a speed that would put Pietro himself to shame, her leg kicked off his waist and she threw her small body across the other end of the couch. Pietro also put himself in high gear and grabbed the closest couch pillow placing it over his lap.

Moments later there were footsteps heard and an exclamation of "Hey! What are you doing here?"

Laura sat crossed legged and turned to look at Kurt, "Hi! Wanda tricked me into babysitting."

"Important question is where were you? I called you a few billion times."

"Such a drama queen. Did you forget I was on a date? I told all of you, with that girl I met at the club last weekend when I was taking care of things while you were off at the beach. Amanda. We went to the movies and I had my phone on silent."

"Oh, that's right."

Kurt didn't bother doing a victory dance at being right and looked around, "Where is Moon Moon?"

"Upstairs, she fell asleep while we were watching a movie. I just stuck around to go over some details for Nocturnal Madness."

"That's right you guys are paired off," Kurt turned to Pietro who didn't turn to him but kept his gaze straight ahead, "Well I'm going to go upstairs and get ready for bed. Let me know if he's mean to you, I'll beat him up. Got to look after my team members."

Pietro scoffed at this, "You need to catch me in order to beat me up so good luck..."

Kurt chuckled and shook his head but started making his way out of the room. Before leaving completely he asked, "Where is everyone else?"

"Dad and Raven are out, didn't tell anyone how long they'd be. Wanda's checking out some talent for me and I have no idea where Anna is."

"Alright, see you in the morning. Night Laura."

"Good night," she answered back.

Neither relaxed even after Kurt's footsteps faded. After a bit she uncrossed her legs, "I should probably get going..."

Pietro finally turned to look at her. His sapphire orbs were dilated, they raked over her figure before going back to her lips and then her eyes, "Yeah, alright...I um... would walk you out but I think I need to sit here for a bit."

She couldn't help the color that tinted her cheeks at the words. "Oh no that's fine. I can walk myself out... and I have your number so I'll message you if I get any ideas for our performance."

"Great, yeah that's fine..."

She got up quickly, "Yeah ok... bye..."

"Good night, and thanks for watching Luna, I really appreciate it."

"It's no problem, we had fun..." she answered, still locking eyes with him.

He nodded at the words, "Shoot me a message when you get home just so you know...I know you got there."

"Sure...bye..." Laura then made a quick escape. Once she was outside of the door she let a big sigh out. Her heart was still hammering in her heart.

Inside the house Pietro's head went back and hit the back of the couch. He closed his eyes and licked his lips, her taste still fresh in his mouth. His hardened member pulsed and he cursed. This was not going to be a good night.

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

"I can't do it anymore. I'm bored out of my fucken mind so I'm heading out."

Wanda turned to her step sister, "How are you going to leave? I drove you here?"

"I'll grab an Uber."

"Stop being a fucken brat, this band is almost done performing."

"And then there is another band after them," Anna answered, rolling her eyes. "No thanks, I'll pass. Plus Pietro left this task up to you."

"Apparently not exclusively," Wanda answered with her own eye rolled before going to the opposite side of the room for a glance. Gambit and the fangirls were giggling and laughing while looking at Remy and would briefly look at John but he paid them no mind. His eyes were focused on the band on the stage. Gambit was also looking at the band but would briefly glance at the ladies to assure them that he was listening to them.

"You got this. I'll see you back at home. Night Jubilee, I'll see you around."

Jubilee mumbled a bye and Wanda opened her mouth to argue but Anna got up and left and was soon lost in a blur of bodies. The bar had filled up more making her easily escape.

Wanda sighed but didn't go after. Instead she slumped in her seat before giving Jubilee an apologetic smile, "Sorry if this isn't the way you planned to spend the night."

Jubilee shook her head, "It's fine. I was alone at the apartment and didn't feel quite comfortable anyway."

"Oh that's right, shit went down when I wasn't there yesterday and you moved in with Laura and the others today. How did that go?"

Jubilee shrugged, "Well I was only there for an hour and I was by myself, but I'm sure it'll be fine. I mean we all get along at work..."

"Work and home are two whole different things. I mean I can't stand Pietro half the time just cause he's always around."

Jubilee laughed, "I don't think I'm surprised. I mean you've practically been roommates all your lives. Hopefully I won't get too annoying to them , I mean it's only going to be a two week thing, so it shouldn't be that bad right?"

"That's how long you're staying over?"

"I think that's the plan..."

"Well I'm glad it worked out and we get to keep you a little longer."

"Thanks, me too. It was really nice of them to offer so honestly I'm just thankful they all agreed."

"Well they're good guys, they're X-men after all. Anyway, thanks for staying with me."

"Yeah, I'm kind of getting used to this actually. Watching bands perform and everything. It's fun. I'm going to have to find somewhere to go when I'm back in Cali."

"The atmosphere over there will probably be a lot crazier than these small town gigs, if anything we're just getting you ready for the big leagues of partying," Wanda responded with a smile.

Jubilee laughed and took a sip from her straw biting at the top as both their attentions went back to the performing band.

It was a few minutes into watching the band that the smell of cigarette smoke reached Jubilee's senses. She had gotten a hint of it when they had barely walked in but it had gotten much worse now and she looked around to find the reason. She quickly deduced that the person who had been sitting behind Anna was the culprit. While she had been sitting in front of him she had helped filter some of the smell but with her absence the scent was hitting her full force.

She gave a small cough and her eyes started getting watery. "Uh, I'm going to step out for some air real quick."

Wanda gave her a glance and nodded before quickly turning her attention back to the stage.

Jubilee got up from her seat and headed towards one of the exit signs. Once she was outside she took a big dramatic inhale. Fresh air was amazing. After getting enough she took a look at her surroundings. There was one dingy light shining above her and one a few feet away from her down the path that led into the alley. From a distance she could hear cars passing and some excited patrons outside the bar but there was no one in her immediate surroundings.

She decided it was time to go back in after a minute or so when she heard footsteps in the distance. Her immediate thought was to get away before anyone spotted her wanting to talk but stopped mid step when she heard a familiar voice.

"Why are you mad?"

The Cajun accent was recognizable right away. For a brief moment she wondered why either fan girl would be bothered with the guy they had been fawning over all night but to her even greater surprise it was a southern drawl that responded.

/Cannot exist without you/

"I'm not mad. What do you need? I was about to get out of here."

Jubilee couldn't help it, at hearing Anna's voice she walked closer to the corner of the wall.

"You sure you're not mad? You're ignoring all my messages and you're looking a little green."

/In secret all devout to/

"Of course I look fucken green, I'm wearing it."

/to my eternal foe/

Jubilee peeked around the corner. Anna and Remy were standing a foot apart from each other, in the middle of the alley a few feet from yet another light post that barely lit anything up. Anna's hands were crossed in front of her chest while she looked up at the Cajun. He was looking down at her, hands at his sides.

/My dear nemesis/

There was a small chuckle at her answer which caused her to give an exasperated sigh and turn away from him thankfully in the opposite direction that Jubilee was at. "Now you're just wasting my time..." she remarked and took a step away from him.

/My dear nemesis/

Jubilee's eyes widened as his hand went to her, grabbing her at the wrist and pulling harshly towards him. Her body collided with his and in a quick movement he turned her so that her back was facing the wall of the building. His hand went to her shoulder and pressed while taking a step forward making her walk backwards until she made contact with the wall. His hand then left her shoulder going to the wall besides her head, his free hand following suit and trapping her in between his arms.

/For as long as the world stands/

Jubilee felt her mouth open ready to defend someone she considered a friend. Before anything made its way out of her mouth she watched as his head leaned down and forward. Her view of what was happening was lost as his face became hidden by his arm.

/As lovers holding hands/

Her mouth closed and she watched and waited. Anna was a good foot shorter than Remy but from what she knew about her in the few weeks of knowing her she knew she was a fierce force to reckon with, so she waited. Waited for the backlash of the Acolytes action. Waited to see if he was going to be harshly pushed back, waiting to see if it was going to be a knee to the groin, or a punch to the face...

She didn't have to wait long.

Remy's hands slid down the wall he was leaning on bringing both their faces into view in the dim lighting. His lips were very much attached to hers. Soon his hands left the wall and went to her hips to press her closer and Jubilee watched Anna get on her tiptoes to ease the bend in his neck to reach her.

/Locked in a perpetual clasp/

Jubilee knew that she had seen enough and quickly retreated back behind the wall by the bar, eyes wide and slack jaw. Suddenly Anna's initial reaction to her finding out she had made a friends with benefits at the beach made sense. Remy also started with an R.

/If one go both lose our grasp/

It also explained the advice she had given her and the fact that she wasn't against putting herself in that type of situation. She knew about that type of situation better than herself.

She wasn't sure how she got herself back inside the bar but a few minutes later she found herself in the barstool Anna had occupied. At least she would stop the cigarette smell from attacking her head on.

Wanda gave a chuckle when she caught sight of her, "Sorry I forgot to mention that you'd probably see some interesting stuff if you went that way. People get tipsy and then hang out back...how bad was it?"

/We'll forever dance/

The image of the two southern's kiss briefly came to mind and then the fact that even though she didn't have to, Anna was keeping her secret. "...No nothing interesting. Just saw a rat and they kinda freak me out..."

"Gross...that would freak me out too. Well I was going to suggest we skip out on the last band but it looks like we can't."

"How come?"

"Pietro's back up flaked."

At the words Jubilee turned to the table the Acolytes had been occupying. She knew that Remy would no longer be sitting at it but she was surprised to see that John was no longer there either. "Where did they go?"

Wanda shrugged with narrowed eyes as she glanced over, "I don't know, when I looked over they were all gone. Probably up to no good though, they never are."

Jubilee gave a slow nod, 'No, they probably aren't,' she thought to herself as the last band started their session.

/As the world Burns around us/

O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O TBC O-o-O-o-O-o-O-o-O

The moment many of you have been waiting is finally here! I hope you enjoyed that slow burn as much as enjoyed writing it XD Other than that Romy reveal we also got a lot of new developments here. Jubilee being forced out of Amara's is definitely one of the biggest ones as it sets other stuff up for the two mains of this story ;)

Jubilay- Not too much of them in this one, but it's there! I love the fact that they're both in really good moods after fooling around the night before though they did get interrupted ;) Also Jubilee met another ex and she is very curious XD Things should definitely be a little more interesting now that they'll be in the same space ;)

Amarto- She's finally talking to him! She listened to him in the last one but now they've had a conversation and it seems like she is restarting their training routine. Better yet Roberto wants to help her do it in a healthy way! What a knight ;)

Romy- I definitely believe her when she says she has the south in her somewhere XD At this time it looks like it's in her mouth ;) Um...well...there it is guys! Remy is surprised that Anna is looking a little green and Anna is visibly annoyed but it looks like it's nothing a little manhandling and smooching won't make better. I love Jubilee's recall of the fact that Anna reacted when she mentioned that she was fooling around with an R person at the beach. I really just enjoyed all the romy interaction in this one from Anna ignoring his message, him buying her drinks and pissing her off with a few fans to that very sexy reveal! Romy is definitely my mothership ;)

Xietro- Oh my oh my...she just jumped him! Haha its really funny to me to make Pietro such a gentleman in this one opposed to the horn dog he's been in all other of my stories XD Um...So I do have a reason behind that and that's that Pietro is pretty much still hanging on to what she said on their dinner non date. She said she didn't want anything...of course her actions are saying something else ;) Let's see if we can get them on the same page :P

Jonda- He's got it bad! I like making Wanda annoyed about the fact that there were girls at his table XD I wouldn't say there's much other than the eyes smex John kept throwing at her but there's going to be more sprinkles of them soon :)

I thought House of Lies would be a good title for this one cause everyone is a liar! Liars about their feelings, attractions and relationships ;) Songs used in this Chapter were: Alejandra Guzman's 'Cuidado Con El Corazón' and 'As the world Burns' Vulture Industries.

Spoiler Alert: SMUT IN THE NEXT CHAPTER. Feel free to guess who's going to get freaky ;)

And that's that! Thank you so much for reading. I really hope you guys enjoyed this one as much as I did :) Till next time and Happy Thanksgiving!

-UHW