Title: Miracle of love

Author: Morgana (morganalebeau@yahoo.com)

Website: http://www.oocities.org/morganalebeau/

Rating: NC-17

Pairing/main characters: Gambit/Iceman

Series/Sequel: The Fallen Angel Arc 4/4

Summary: Slash. Gambit is rescued from certain death on the ice by Magneto who later forces him to return to the X-Men to face his past. Back at the manison Remy and Bobby grow attached to each other.

Disclaimer: Gambit and X-Men is (c)copyright of Marvel Comics. No copyright infringement is intended.

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Miracle of love 1

By Morgana

 

The Miracle Of Love: Eurythmics

How many sorrows
Do you try to hide
In a world of illusions
That's covering your mind?

The miracle of love
Will take away your pain
When the miracle of love
Comes your way again.

Chapter One

Scott exchanged an approving smile with his wife. Remy had fallen asleep on the couch in the living room, curled up and hugging a pillow. Most X-Men had silently returned to the kitchen for more bacon and eggs or coffee without waking the sleeper.
Bobby was looking out of the window, enjoying the sight of the icy white tapestry. As he turned around, he noticed the couple's smile and looked lovingly at Remy. Soundlessly, he walked over to Jean and Scott and said, "Everything will be just fine."
Jean nodded her head. "I know, but this is just the beginning. Remy still has a long way ahead of him." Her smile weakened a little and she looked questioningly at Scott. "Somehow I think Remy and Nate might get along just fine."
"Yes, Sinister plays a major part in both their lives," Scott mumbled. "But with Remy it's different."
"Nate doesn't really need us," Jean agreed and smiled apologetically at Bobby. "But Remy does."
"I sometimes wonder," Bobby started and leaned against the wall. "What if the professor hadn't insisted on running that DNA test?"
"We would have accepted him any way," Jean replied. "Not as our son, but certainly as a friend and team mate."
"Jean, there's something I want to ask you," Bobby said slightly uncomfortable. "During our time in Paris Remy had us? floating in the room. I don't know how to describe it. Do you think he has some telekinetic abilities as well?"
Scott looked up, interested as well. Nate was an extremely powerful telepath and had mastered his telekinetic ability. Was it possible Remy possessed the same qualities? He shuddered at the thought of Remy losing control. "We should find out."
"We will," Jean soothed him. "But Remy's potential is still expanding. I don't know how strong he will get and we shouldn't forget Magneto's powers." Turning to Bobby she continued, "He might have used a magnetic field instead of telekinesis."
Bobby hadn't considered that yet. "Remy? doesn't want to use any of his powers," he revealed.
"I know that," Jean admitted and noticed Scott's surprised expression. "I had to convince him that it was fine to talk to me using telepathy."
"This will take longer than I thought," Scott mumbled privately. "And who will teach him how to use his powers? "A wicked grin appeared on his face. "I want to be there when Remy realizes he can fly." A low chuckle left his throat.
Bobby's eyes mirrored his surprise. He hadn't considered that possibility. "Fly?"
Jean agreed with her husband. "Maybe this is where Magneto? Magnus should take over. I suspect he can show Remy how to handle his abilities."
Scott shook his head, not pleased with that suggestion. "I don't trust him? not completely."
"You can trust him where Remy's concerned," Jean said resolved. "I suspect Magnus doesn't really understand the depth of his own feelings for Remy. Something tells me this might be the first time someone REALLY needs him." Jean pondered the situation and then grinned at her husband. "Why don't you set up some kind of training schedule for Remy? He'll need to get back in to shape."
"Yeah," Bobby muttered. "Scott's always been a slave driver!"
"Hey, I resent that!" Scott chuckled, but realized Jean had made a valid point. "Come on, let's give them some time alone," he whispered in to Jean's ear and pulled her along.
Bobby watched them leave and then walked over to Remy. Sitting down on the couch he studied Remy's face, which still looked too pale. Raising an arm, he wrapped it around his lover. //Remy?// He reached out, making sure no nightmares were tormenting him.
Remy stirred and slowly opened his eyes. He was turning in to a light sleeper and Bobby's thoughts had immediately awakened him. Stretching lazily he licked his lips and smiled. "Oui, cher?"
Bobby drew in a deep breath, uncertain how to phrase his next question. "Remy, why did you leave your ring behind?" Slowly, he removed the ring from his finger and showed it to his lover.
"I didn' want Sinister t' get his dirty hands on it," Remy admitted shyly. "I shouldn' have left like dat, but I couldn' bear de t'ought of Jean?"
"I understand," Bobby reassured him. "Want it back?"
"Oui," Remy whispered shakily. "If y' still want me t' wear it? I really don' deserve 'not'er chance."
"Oh, Remy!" Bobby said disapprovingly. "I just wish you would stop getting yourself in to trouble like that!" Tenderly, he slid the ring back in to place and caressed his lover's nimble fingers. "I want to hold you, love."
Remy snuggled up to him and relished the embrace. "Cher?"
"Yes?" Bobby rested his chin on Remy's locks and sensed his lover's heart beat underneath his fingertips.
"Are y' happy wid me?" Remy's voice sounded uncertain, wavering.
//Of course I am!// Bobby reassured him. //You're back in my arms, Sinister is dead and I now hold a trump over Warren for the rest of his life! Weren't you the one who suggested he should talk to Wolvie?// Remy's soft, but genuine laughter made him smile.
//Oui, I did. But I never t'ought? Ange looks better, non?//
//Yes, it's been a while since I've seen him this happy.//
//Cher?//
//Yes?// Bobby replied patiently and cast a glance down at his lover's face. His heart missed a beat seeing that familiar look of mischief on Remy's face.
//Logan asked me if dey could borrow de handcuffs.//
//Sure, why not?// Bobby's gaze darkened briefly. //We aren't going to use them, are we?//
//Non,// Remy whispered in to his lover's mind. //I don' ever want t' be shackled 'gain?//
//You could cuff me to the bed,// Bobby suggested and smiled.
//Y' can' be serious, cher!// Remy raised his head to search Bobby's eyes.
Bobby grinned. //Why are you surprised? I thought you'd like to see me helpless and at your mercy?//
Speechless, Remy blinked his eyes. //I ain't goin' t' comment on dat!//
Bobby now shook with laughter. //Never thought you were shy!//
//I ain't shy!// Remy stated firmly and glared indignantly at his lover. But there was something else on Bobby's mind, something he was avoiding bringing up. //What do y' want t' know?//
Not looking forward to this, Bobby asked. //When we were in Paris you made us float in the room, do you know that? No, apparently you don't.// Bobby concluded, correctly interpreting Remy's baffled expression. //You either used telekinesis or a magnetic field, a sphere like Magnus does.//
"Mon Dieu," Remy exclaimed and sat upright, pulling away from Bobby's arms. "Why didn' y' tell me?"
"I didn't think you could? handle it," Bobby admitted concerned. "Think you can repeat that little demonstration here and now?"
"Are y' askin' me t'? Y' can' be askin' me dat!" Upset, Remy got to his feet and started pacing the room.
"You've got to learn how to use your powers, Remy," Bobby admonished him. "I don't understand why you're this? reluctant. Scott, Jean and Magnus accepted you, so what's the problem?"
"I don' know, cher," Remy whispered in a shaky tone. His watering eyes pleaded with his lover to be patient with him. "I? don' know who I am, cher."
Bobby got to his feet as well and leaned in to kiss Remy. "I once told you that you're the man I love. That's all you need to know,"
Remy trembled. "I don' know where I'd be wit'out your love, cher."
Smiling affectionately Bobby took hold of Remy's left hand and brought the fingers to his lips. Slowly, taking his time, he kissed each fingertip. "And if it hadn't been for you I'd still be hiding in the closet!" That brought a weak smile to Remy's face and Bobby relished seeing it. Remy had smiled so little during these last weeks. //That's going to change,// he promised privately.
"Wanna play Twister?" Bobby inquired in a mischievous tone. They'd moved some of Remy's stuff to his room, as they tended to end up here anyway. Remy's clothes now lay next to his in the cupboard and his toothbrush had found a way in to the bathroom. Yes, Remy had definitely moved in and Bobby loved it!
Remy looked up from the book he'd been trying to read. "Oui," he sighed, aware he needed the distraction. It had taken him one hour to read =one= sentence. As he watched Bobby spread out the mat on the floor, he wondered why his lover hadn't asked him about that last dream. The question was always there, hovering at the edge of his mind, but Bobby was holding back for some obscure reason. //Y' can ask me, cher. What is it?//
Bobby smiled. He'd been waiting for Remy to make that first move and Remy's curiosity had won at last! "I was thinking about? what's his name? Jean-Luc? Shouldn't you let him know what you discovered?" Bobby never expected Remy to grow pale at that suggestion. "What?" he said and hurried over to his lover's side. "Did I say something wrong?"
"Non," Remy shook his head, trying to wave away Bobby's concern. "I assumed y' wanted t' know more 'bout?"
"The abuse you hinted at?" Bobby said softly, hating the way Remy flinched. "No, you'll tell me about that when you're ready." He knew better than to pressure Remy in to telling him something that painful. "Don't you miss Jean-Luc? Or that woman I saw in your dreams?"
"Tante?" Remy's smile returned. "Oui, I miss dem, but I can' go back an'? dis now feels like home."
"What about phoning them?" Bobby pressed on, smelling victory. "Would that be trespassing as well?"
"Cher?" Remy whispered in an uncertain tone.
"Here." Bobby picked up the phone from the bed. "Why don't you call them right now?"
Confused, Remy stared at the phone. How had they managed to get off track that quickly? "What 'bout playin' Twister?" he asked, trying to change the subject.
"Want some privacy?" Bobby offered.
Remy smiled warmly at that suggestion. //De link?//
//You can shut it down if that makes you feel more comfortable. I don't wanna pry,// Bobby sent sincerely.
"I don' want t' shut it down," Remy confessed in a guilty tone.
"Great!" Bobby radiated pride as he stared in to his lover's eyes. "Now call them."
Remy realized Bobby was serious and would keep pestering him until he gave in. How long had it been since he'd last talked to Jean-Luc or tante? His mouth grew dry and he didn't trust his voice any longer. "I can' do it."
"Why?" Bobby knew he'd won. Remy wanted to make that call, even though he denied it.
"I don' know what t' say."
"You will," Bobby promised. A long minute passed by in silence and eventually Remy began punching in the number. Bobby remained quiet, sensing the turmoil in Remy's mind. Squeezing his lover's sweaty hand he smiled reassuringly.
Nervous, Remy moistened his lips and rehearsed his first lines? but when a woman's voice answered him, he forgot everything he'd wanted to say.
Bobby poked him in the ribs. "Say something!"
"If dis be some kind of joke, y' ll be sorry!" the woman stated in a calm tone.
"Tante?" Remy squeezed out, barely able to believe he was actually talking to the woman who'd been a mother to him for so many years. "Tante, c'est Remy."
"Remy!"
Smiling, Remy moved the phone a little further away from his ear. She'd called out his name in a loud, almost ecstatic tone.
"Remy! Tante has been waitin' f'r y' t' make dis call! We heard horrible t'ings 'bout what 'appened t' y', mon petite!!"
Remy quickly exchanged a glance with Bobby. //Horrible t'ings?// "Tante? What did y' hear?"
"Dat dey left y' on de ice t' die! Jean-Luc is furious! It's so good t' hear y'r voice, mon petite. Are y' eatin' right?"
Bobby chuckled, sitting at Remy's feet. This tante sounded awfully protective! //Just what you need, another person watching your every move!//
"Don' laugh!" Remy chided his lover and tried to tickle him in to submission. Bobby was extremely ticklish and was squirming for mercy in no time. "Now behave!"
"Remy? Who are y' talkin' t'? Ca va bien, petite?"
"Why is she calling you petite? Doesn't that mean little?" Bobby quipped. "Or is she referring to Renard?"
"Merde!" Remy chuckled and composed himself again. "Excuse moi, tante. Mon ami here t'inks he's bein' funny."
"Ami? So y're fine? Remy, I worry 'bout y'!"
Remy's eyes began to water. "No need t' worry, tante. I found some great friends here?"
"Uhm," tante didn't sound convinced. "Jean-Luc is right t' check on y'. Y' sound? "
"Tante, what did y' say?" Suddenly alert, Remy stared at Bobby. "Check on me?"
"Oui, Jean-Luc is on his way t' de mansion."
"Non!" Remy exclaimed terrified. //What if père walks in on Magnus or Scott and Jean?//
Bobby, serious once again, tried to reassure his lover. "I'm sure Jean-Luc will understand."
"Remy? Tell tante who's talkin' t' y'!" Her tone had changed to urgent, demanding obedience.
Bobby shivered slightly and suddenly realized how protective Jean-Luc and tante were of Remy. They had raised him, had seen him through the nightmares. These two people probably knew every secret Remy was still trying to hide from him, afraid it would disgust him.
"Remy! Chile! Y' tell tante now!"
Remy sighed heavily. Tante would probably call him right back to demand an explanation. If tante would set her mind to it, the thieves' guild would supply her with Bobby's phone number in a heartbeat.
"Tell her, love," Bobby whispered and nodded his head. "You can't hide in the closet, remember?"
//It ain't dat,// Remy explained. //They ain't prejudiced.//
Bobby looked at him questioningly.
//Dey might find it? bizarre, dat I've taken a male lover? considerin'?//
//What happened to you in your childhood?// Bobby finished, understanding his lover a little better.
//Oui.// Remy smiled, as tante repeated her request, but this time it had turned in to a command. "Tante, I? found someone who loves me."
"C'est grand! Who is it?"
Remy smiled, but mentally prepared himself for her reaction. "His name is Robert, Bobby." Tante remained silent on the other end and Remy cringed in the chair. "Tante?"
"Je suis heureux, Remy..." Her tone grew soft, tender and caring. "Y' deserve t' be happy, chile. He better treat y' right or tante will teach him manners!"
Bobby rested his chin on Remy's knees. His hands gently grabbed his lover's waist and he started to pull Remy on to the floor. "I will," he yelped in to the phone.
"Tante, I?" Remy didn't resist and ended up sprawled on top of his lover's body. "Got t' go!" Remy whispered as Bobby's hand slipped underneath his shirt. "Je promets t' call 'gain!"
"Oui, chile," tante replied and her chuckle echoed through the connection. "Je comprends. Tante was youn' once aussi! Je t'aime," she whispered eventually.
"Merci, tante," Remy said passionately. It meant a lot to him that she'd reacted like that. In his heart he knew she trusted his judgment. As he terminated the connection the phone slipped from his fingers. Diving to his lover's lips he forgot that he was supposed to feel depressed and miserable.
Bobby thoroughly enjoyed sensing Remy's sudden outburst of passion, but? //Didn't she say that Jean-Luc was on his way over here? Wonder when he'll arrive.//
Remy stared at him in shock. //Merde!// He'd forgotten about that. //Dis be trouble, cher!//

 

Chapter Two

Remy paused as he reached Charles Xavier's study. His telepathic powers told him who was inside; Magnus, Jean, Scott and the Professor, the four people he'd set out to find. He needed to talk to them about Jean-Luc, although he wasn't sure why he was feeling this apprehensive. Maybe his père would get side-tracked and never show up. //But Tante sounded convinced!//
Jean-Luc LeBeau was a man who kept his word at all cost. He wouldn't allow himself to be distracted once his mind was set on defending his son. If Tante had been correct, Jean-Luc was on his way to call the X-Men to account for their deeds in the past. This wasn't good at all. Not now that they were working so hard on getting to know each other!
Softly, he knocked on the door. Just as a formality, as he was certain that the Professor and Jean had already sensed his presence.
"Yes, you can come inside, Remy," came Xavier's soft voice.
As he stepped inside, Remy shot everyone a quick glance. Hopefully, he wasn't interrupting something important. But no, they had been discussing him. His name still lingered in the room, as if their conversation had left behind a mental fingerprint. Slightly taken aback he remained poised near the doorway.
Jean smiled reassuringly. "You want to talk to us?" she asked, wondering what had caused Remy to take the initiative.
"Oui," Remy shuffled his feet as he tried to avoid their eyes. Magnus' presence surprised him. Feeling a little shy he smiled apologetically. "Bobby made me phone Nawlins an' I talked t' Tante."
"Tante?" Magnus repeated, questioningly. One of the reasons they had gathered here was to allow Charles to inform them about Remy's past. They'd been shocked to learn how little they knew about Remy's background.
"Oui," Remy nodded his head. "She raised me?"
"Remy, please take a seat." Charles sensed something had upset his student, but not in a negative way. It felt more like? surprise, even excitement. Jean and he had to work on Remy's shields. They were much too weak.
"You were adopted when you were? twelve?" Magnus had listened closely to the little Charles had managed to tell them before Remy had shown up.
"Jean-Luc LeBeau adopted me, oui. Tante raised his son an' ot'er children from the Guild." Remy didn't really want to explain this. He'd only come here to warn them.
"The thieves' Guild," Scott remarked and nodded his head. "And this Jean-Luc is in charge of that? organization?"
"Oui," Remy replied, fatigued. Much had happened lately and he needed time to recuperate. "An' Tante told me père is on his way t' de mansion. She didn' tell me when he'd arrive."
Jean leaned forward. "Why is he coming here?" Gently, she placed her hand on his in an attempt to reassure her son.
Remy's mouth suddenly felt awfully dry. He couldn't tell them? Maybe he should tell them a white lie instead? But no, Jean would immediately sense something was wrong. //Merde!//
Jean locked eyes with the Professor, who nodded his approval. Slowly, she reached out and established contact with Magnus.
Scott looked up, feeling her thoughts grow in strength.
//Remy? What's the matter?// she asked concerned.
Remy didn't seem to really register the switch from vocal to telepathic communication. He simply reacted and answered her using telepathy. //I didn' tell him, but somehow père found out dat? I almost died in Antarctica.//
Charles smiled warmly. //And now he's coming here to make sure you're fine. I suspect he'll be rather angry with the X-Men for deserting you like that.// Charles briefly considered his words. //And he has every right to be angry.//
//Mais,// Remy objected, //Y' don' know him. Père can get? protective?//
Jean laughed softly. //Are you trying to tell us that he's going to lecture us?//
Remy actually started to blush. //I don' know, Jean, père is? unpredictable.//
//And loves you dearly,// Magnus cut in. //Thanks for warning us, son, but I'm sure that once we've explained things Jean-Luc will understand.//
Remy wasn't that sure, but didn't protest Magnus' remark. //I should be gettin' back t' Bobby.//
//Before you go,// Charles reacted quickly and locked eyes with his student. //We want to ask you something too.//
Feeling uneasy, Remy remained seated. //Oui?//
Jean noticed that Remy had perfectly settled in to using this temporary connection between them. She'd stopped feeding it with mental energy minutes ago. Remy might not be aware of it, but HE was the one maintaining it, effortlessly! Scott had been right. They had to find out how strong Remy really was!
//Bobby told us you succeeded in making the two of you float in Paris?// Charles inquired and exchanged a look with Jean. He'd noticed she'd pulled back. The connection buzzed with sparkling energy and it almost felt like Remy was drawing power from this conversation. //But he isn't draining us,// he told Jean. //So where does this increase in power come from?//
//I don't know yet,// she replied, shielding her answer from Remy. //But it's not just Remy who's feeling stronger? I feel it too.//
//And so do I.// Charles realized. Was it possible that Remy possessed the power to magnify their abilities? Or was it something completely different? Had it to do with? //His empathy, Jean.// he suddenly understood what Remy was doing, even though it was on a subconscious level. Because neither he nor Jean were empaths they'd overlooked its influence.
//Remy feels comfortable in spite of his unease. He somehow has the ability to 'return that feeling of comfort' to us in the form of telepathic energy.// Charles realized, impressed.
//I've never heard of this before.// Jean's eyes widened slightly and she berated herself. Remy wasn't like her, or Nate for that matter. The empathy, the mixture of his particular abilities made him unique. No one else possessed these powers. Sinister had truly created his ultimate weapon and she was thankful that they had gotten to Remy first! //I doubt he's aware that he's even doing it.//
//I agree. We need to start his training as quickly as possible. We'll give him one or two days to rest, then we'll begin testing his abilities.//
Remy was watching them. Something blinked at the edges of his mind? a telepathic conversation he wasn't privy too. They had to be discussing him!
//Remy?// Magnus tried to gain his attention and failed. "Remy!" he said aloud and this time it worked.
"Oui?"
As Remy replied, the telepathic connection shattered. Jean raised an eyebrow. //We'll need to work on his concentration!//
Composing himself, Remy looked at Magnus. A strange tension hovered in the study and he had to do something to break it. He wanted them to feel comfortable. "Jus' realized dat I now have t'ree pères, a mère an' den dere's Tante?"
Magnus smiled. "It's good to hear that you've accepted us as your? parents," he said and gave his son a wink.
That wink distracted Remy and subconsciously he reached out, trying to find out if there was a deeper meaning to Magnus' words. But he never expected that his tentative probing would set off another reaction!
The glow started out very faint, but then it intensified. Remy looked down, controlling the panic he was experiencing. His hands glowed like they did when charging an object, but this time it was different. The light sneaked up his arms, slowly engulfing his entire body. It was a pleasant, warm sensation and he calmed down. Whatever was causing this, the glow wasn't only warming his body, but also his mind.
Magnus watched closely. "Don't fight it," he instructed.
"What is it?" Remy asked in a curious tone.
Scott however, was hoping Remy wouldn't lose control of whatever energy was building inside him.
"This was bound to happen," Magnus explained in a firm tone. "Somehow you've found a way to tap in to the magnetic sphere that surrounds the earth. You can use it to replace lost energy."
"It feels? warm," was the only word Remy found to describe the sensation. "But how do I stop it?"
Magneto moved his chair closer to Remy and gently took hold of his hands. "You should re-establish telepathic contact. It's easier if you take the instructions from my mind."
Shaken, Remy looked at Jean for guidance. He wasn't sure what to do. Jean nodded her head and he opened his mind for Magnus, slowly expanding his thoughts until they engulfed them both.
Remy had never realized that Magnus had absolute control over his power. Seeing through his father's eyes made Remy gasp. There was such beauty in the way the atoms moved, the attraction the poles wielded. It was a revelation he could only process with Magnus' help. Remy suddenly wondered if he had used this power subconsciously before. Had he used it to make them float in that hotel room?
Scott and Jean noticed the silent wonder on Remy's face and couldn't help but smile. Discovering one's powers could be frightening, but with the right guidance and support it could be an immensely beautiful experience.
"Better?" Magnus inquired as the glow weakened.
"Oui, but I feel like?" Remy grinned. "Like de energizer bunny!"
"That's good," Jean quipped, pleased with the sudden change in Remy's emotions. Maybe? She turned towards Magnus and asked, "Can it be Remy has felt this?//God, how do I phrase this?// "low on energy because he was cut off from this? source?" Privately, she complimented herself on her diplomacy. She'd almost said depressed, but that word described Remy's mental, not physical state.
"That's very well possible," Magnus commented and leaned back. "I'll show you how to tap in to this 'source'," and he smiled at Remy, "without my help."
"Merci," Remy whispered slightly embarrassed. He was wondering though. He'd seen Magneto in action many times and it frightened him to know he possessed a similar power.
"Go ahead," Charles said, "use it." He'd picked up on Remy's line of thought. "Start with something simple like this pen."
Remy peeked at Magnus. "Can I?"
"Are you asking MY permission to use YOUR powers?" Magnus said in a tone wavering between concern and pride. "Do it. Place that pen in the palm of my hand. Don't worry," he reassured his son. "I'll intervene should something go wrong. Just concentrate."
"I ain't sure dis is a good idea," Remy objected, but weakly. His curiosity was getting the better of him and he focused on the silver pen on Xavier's desk. "I never tried dis 'fore!" he warned them.
Magnus and Scott looked at each other. Leaning in closer Magnus whispered, "Is he usually this insecure?"
"No," Scott replied slightly amused. "Not that I can remember!"
"Let me concentrate!" Remy chided them unexpectedly.
Magnus grinned and closely observed the pen. It started to move, slowly and waveringly, but a moment later it was hovering in the air. "That's it, Remy!" Magnus complimented him and concentrated on Remy's obvious display of his powers, but?
The pen dropped in to his hand and he closed his fingers around it. He had to share his observations with the others if they ever wanted Remy to fully understand his powers. "This wasn't just a display of magnetism," he said eventually.
They looked up. Remy's eyes pleaded with his father not to be angry with him. His empathic ability told him that Magnus was? upset about something.
"There was? a second power." Magnus considered his options. He hated misleading Remy, but it seemed the only way to get the answer they needed. "You know that I can only manipulate objects which hold metal," he stated, telling Charles with a glance not to meddle in this. "Remy, I want you to," his eyes searched the room. "See that scarf?"
Remy nodded his head. "Oui," he whispered, wondering about Magnus' intentions.
"That scarf holds no metal," Magnus lied. "Repeat your first demonstration and place it in my hand," Magnus instructed.
"But," Scott started and then understood. Was it possible that several powers mingled within Remy's mind? Had Remy subconsciously found a way to make them? compatible? Would that give Remy total control of a molecular structure?
//He might have been able to take Sinister out himself!// Scott realized and felt Jean's agreement. She had apparently come to the same conclusion.
In the meantime Remy had started his attempt to carry out Magnus' instructions, but without any real conviction. There was no way he could manipulate a substance like that! But shocked, he realized the scarf WAS moving towards Magnus. //An' I'm doin' it?//
"Yes, you are," Charles said, nodding his head. "Looks like you also possess strong telekinetic abilities." But it was more than just another ability. These powers had become one inside Remy's mind, interacting, complimenting each other. This was incredible!
"Mon Dieu!" Remy exclaimed as the scarf settled on to Magnus' extended hand.
"You need proper training, Remy!" Charles commented. "Magnus? I suggest you start his training tomorrow. Jean will help you. Scott? Remy needs to get back in to shape. Set up a training schedule and Remy?"
Remy was still staring at the scarf, desperately trying to understand what he had just done. "Oui, m'sieur?"
"You should inform Bobby of this development." Charles suggested this for several reasons. He knew that Remy needed to talk about this and Bobby would listen.
"Oui," Remy scrambled to his feet. His face had turned flustered from the use of his powers and overall he felt a lot better, but? "I ain't goin' t' hurt Bobby accidentally?" he asked Magnus.
Magnus expected that question. "Tell me, what happened the first time you charged an object?"
Remy actually grinned hearing that question. "Y ain't goin' t' tell anyone?"
"We won't," Scott said, eager to learn what was that funny.
"Mon père once got me a teddy bear?" Remy started in an uncertain tone and remembered waking up the other day hugging one.
"Yes?" Magnus waited patiently for Remy to continue. What had a teddy bear to do with this?
"I?" Remy lowered his eyes. "I used t' take it t' bed wid me when I was lil' an' one night I charged it? an' it exploded? exit teddy bear." Remy shrugged his shoulders. "What has dis t' do wid my question?" he asked Magnus.
Smiling, Magnus replied, "You won't make such a mistake a second time. You know how important it is to control your powers." He paused, looked at Jean and said, "Besides, from what Jean told me the link will keep you from using your powers unintentionally where Bobby's concerned. You're in control of them as it is."
Remy shook his head. "Control?" he echoed. "I don' even know deir extent!"
"Why don't you try to get some rest?" Charles suggested. "You've been through a lot recently. You need to?"
"Recharge?" Remy added in a mischievous tone. "I t'ought I jus' did dat!" But the Professor was right and he knew it. Slowly he made his way in to the corridor. It was amazing. He'd learned so much about himself in less than an hour!
//Remy? Love?//
Bobby's call woke Remy from his musings. //Oui, cher?//
//We were going to play Twister, remember?//
Remy grinned and suddenly realized he hadn't been doing anything else during this last hour. Ever since this? energy surge he felt a lot better, stronger. When Magnus had shown him how to use the energy to his advantage he'd briefly felt part of his father's mind. It had been intense, sharing that power, that connection.
//Remy? I've got strawberries? want me to feed them to you?// Bobby asked seductively, knowing Remy couldn't refuse such an offer.
//Mais oui!// Remy replied and this time his grin turned in to a smirk.

 

Chapter Three

"Remy?" Bobby raised his head and stared straight into his lover's laughing eyes. The change, which had taken place within Remy, was incredible. Remy radiated energy and had a hard time lying still in bed, holding him. Remy had told him about tapping into earth's magnetic sphere and yes, he did understand the change, but? "Are you awright?"
"Oui, cher, stop worryin'!" Remy admonished him. They'd skipped playing Twister and had moved on to the strawberries instead. Peeking at the clock Remy smiled. "Usually Cyke? Scott has us sweatin' in de danger room at dis time." It was 14.00 hours, an odd time to be snuggling up in bed. "Good t'ing he gave us today off."
Bobby placed a passionate kiss on his lover's lips. "You're entitled to some rest."
"Y' too, cher!" Remy remarked. Something was causing his lover discomfort and he focused on it. "Is y'r shoulder still troublin' y'?"
"Sometimes," Bobby admitted. "The wound has closed, but?"
"Turn 'round, cher," Remy ordered.
"Why? What are you up to?" Bobby complied and rolled on to his stomach. It would take him some time to get used to this particular side of Remy. Until now, Remy had appeared depressed, passive and suddenly everything had changed. //What will happen once he used up all that energy?// he thought privately.
//Cher?//
Chuckling softly, Bobby realized that keeping his thoughts private might prove impossible. Oh, he was sure that Remy would block his thoughts if asked, but he didn't feel that need. Softly, he repeated the question in his mind.
//Hopefully Magnus will help me tappin' in to dis source 'gain,// Remy replied, as his hands pulled Bobby's sweater over his lover's head. Gently, he placed the palms of his hands on Bobby's back. A red, angry scar stared right back at him. //Henri should have a'not'er look at dat,// he told Bobby. His nimble fingers massaged his lover's back, neck and shoulders.
"Hank says that it needs time to heal completely." Bobby tried to shrug his shoulders, but the steady movement of Remy's hands made him relax. "This feels nice."
Remy smiled and located a hard knob of tense muscles. Slowly, he started working on it. His eyes however, never left the scar. It disfigured the smooth back, the soft, sensitive skin. "Y' like de massage?" he inquired, already aware of the answer. It felt good to do something nice in return.
"If you keep this up, I'm going to fall asleep!" Bobby warned him. He sighed heavily as he released all tension, fear and agony they'd gone through recently. Pushing himself deeper in to the comfort of the bed Bobby closed his eyes. Remy was straddling his lower back and the feel of those hands was enchanting. "You've done this before!" he mumbled sleepily.
"Once or twice," Remy whispered, loving the fact that it were HIS hands which made his lover feel this relaxed. His hands? and suddenly he felt afraid. What if he accidentally charged Bobby's skin? What if?
//Stop that,// Bobby sent in a firm tone. //There's no reason to doubt yourself like that!//
//Merci, cher,// Remy replied and leaned forward to kiss his lover's neck.
Bobby squirmed, but didn't try to turn around. Those fingers were working miracles. Against his will, his eyes closed and he slowly dozed off.
Remy's brow grew knitted. He had to stop thinking like that. Bobby was right. He'd always controlled his powers. There was no reason why he'd fail now! He had to rebuild his self-confidence and Bobby would help him yes, but he'd have to do the majority himself.
Closing his eyes he concentrated on the skin underneath his fingertips. They suddenly brushed against the scar and Bobby moaned. His lover had suffered this injury because of him and Remy wished there was a way to lessen this particular discomfort.
In his mind, he envisioned that he possessed the power to smooth out the scar tissue. It was only wishful thinking, but? Remy's eyes suddenly flashed open as his fingers started to tingle. Upset, he stared at his hands, which still glowed softly. As his fingers moved over Bobby's scar tissue, the raw redness began to vanish. Smooth skin appeared instead.
"Mon Dieu!" he whispered nervously. He'd vowed not to use these powers, but? Apparently, imagining things made them happen! "Non!" he exclaimed upset. This time he hadn't injured Bobby, but what would happen the next time? "I'm too dangerous!"
//Remy?// Waking up, Bobby immediately realized that something was wrong. Remy was almost panicking, why? //What happened?// he asked and he quickly rolled on to his back. His arms folded themselves around his lover and he pulled Remy close to his chest. The red irises in his lover's eyes burned. Surprised, he noticed that his shoulder had stopped aching. "What did you do?"
Remy closed his eyes and rested his head on Bobby's bare chest. "I screwed up," he whimpered. The last thing he wanted was to accidentally hurt someone. This mood swing baffled even him. Up until a moment ago he'd felt great and now he was crying in Bobby's arms. What the hell was wrong with him?
Bobby received most of those thoughts and rocked his lover in his arms. "The scar is gone?"
"Oui, I didn' want t' do dat! It jus' did!" Remy wanted to look up, but Bobby had a tight hold on him and wouldn't let go.
"Remy," Bobby started, feeling an immense pain stirring inside his lover. "You need to let go of the pain." A darkness, gloomy and all consuming was fighting itself a way to the surface. He'd been waiting for this to happen. Ever since his rescue Remy had refused to discuss Sinister or the experiments the mad scientist had performed on him. "Locking this away is no solution."
"Lockin' what 'way?" Remy asked nervously. Did Bobby know what was wrong with him?
"You need to talk about Sinister, the lab, the things he did to you, Remy," Bobby chided him in a gentle tone. "You're refusing to deal with it."
"I don' want y' t' know de t'ings he did," Remy admitted gingerly. Bobby's arms kept him close and he relished his lover's concern.
Bobby thought back to Remy's dream and remembered Jean- Luc's words, which still impressed him. "I'll still love you after you told me."
Tears appeared in Remy's eyes as he failed in keeping them back. "Cher? I ain't sure I should tell y'."
Bobby inhaled his lover's scent and licked the salty skin underneath Remy's left ear. "Start telling me with something you're comfortable with."
"I don' want dese powers!" Remy suddenly exploded.
"Why?" Bobby raised Remy's chin so he could study those alien eyes. It pained him to see such agony in them.
"Dey ain't mine!" Remy maintained stubbornly.
"I see." Bobby's right hand tangled in Remy's locks. "So who's the empath? Jean? Scott? Magnus?"
"Cher?" Remy's furrowed brow revealed his puzzlement.
"Remy, empathy is YOUR natural mutant power. You didn't inherit it from Jean!"
Remy momentarily forgot to breathe. Bobby was right, but?
"And which one of your parents can charge objects with kinetic energy?" Bobby continued relentlessly. He couldn't allow Remy to lock away these powers. They would only emerge stronger than before.
"Y' ain't fair, cher!" Remy said in a sulking tone.
"Life isn't fair," Bobby reminded him. "I can understand that you might feel uncomfortable about your new?'talents', but don't stop using the ones you had all your life, love."
Remy nodded his head. This was a compromise he could live with. "I'll try," he promised. He wanted nothing to do with magnetism or telekinesis. Only the fact that he would have immense problems turning off the link, forced him to use telepathy with Bobby? and maybe Jean, but no one else!
It was a beginning, Bobby realized. "Now, is there any chance you'll continue that massage?" Releasing Remy, he turned back on to his stomach, hoping his lover would resume that wonderful massage.
Remy stared at the smooth skin. The scar had completely gone. Never again! Remy vowed. He refused to examine his new powers, not even Magnus was going to change his mind!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inside a limousine
Furious! He was furious for what they had done to his son! Remy had trusted the X-Men and they had betrayed him, had left him to die.
His sources had uncovered the circumstances leading up to the fight in Antarctica, but Jean-Luc LeBeau believed in his son's loyalty and innocence. This Essex had tricked his son! There was no other explanation. Remy would rather die himself than willingly participate in such a slaughter!
"How much longer?" Jean-Luc asked his driver Louis, a trusted member of the Thieves' guild, who occasionally functioned as his bodyguard. Not that he needed one. Jean-Luc LeBeau knew how to take care of himself!
"30 minutes," Louis estimated.
With a disapproving hiss Jean-Luc leaned back. He had to know his son was safe and unharmed. Ever since he'd taken in the small, neglected boy he'd become extremely protective of Remy. Although he hadn't been thrilled to hear that his son had joined the X-Men, he respected, loved Remy too much to challenge that decision.
When had everything gone wrong? Jean-Luc stared at the brief case lying on the seat next to him. The marriage had been a necessity, but he should have known something would go wrong. He still wanted Remy with him, safe in New Orleans, but that was impossible. And Belle?
He didn't want to think about her. This was about his son and although they needed to discuss Belle, he wasn't going to waste his time on her now. //Non, I'll tell dem X-Men what I t'ink of deir betrayal. No one hurts mon fils!//
Many years ago he'd vowed no one would hurt Remy as long as he lived. There was no way the X-Men could justify leaving his son to die!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jean softly opened the door to Bobby's room. Dinner was ready and she wanted to make sure that Remy wasn't skipping meals. A smile curled her lips, as she realized that Remy was holding Bobby in his sleep. Both men were soundly asleep and she couldn't bring herself to wake them. As she closed the door, she almost bumped in to Scott, who'd been looking over her shoulder.
"You should wake them anyway," he advised. "Or Logan will eat their share as well."
"Let them sleep a little longer," Jean said and pulled her husband along. "Remy needs sleep."
"And he also needs food!" Determined, Scott returned to the door and knocked hard. "Dinner's ready!" he announced and grinned, seeing Jean's shocked face. "You're already mothering him!"
Jean sighed. "You're right, but?"
Scott laughed, as infuriated yelps emanated from Bobby's bedroom. "They're awake," he stated pleased and gestured his wife to accompany him to the dinning room.
"Scott, sometimes?" Jean started, but left the sentence unfinished, as she realized that Scott had acted out of concern. "Why do you always have to be right? It's such an annoying character trade!"
"One you love!" Scott chided her and wrapped an arm around her waist. "Come on, let's have dinner!"
"Merde!" Remy cursed as he fell out of bed. Bobby unintentionally pushed him away in his state of half sleep, as his lover tried to sit upright. Remy hit the floor hard and rubbed his elbow, as he had used it to catch his fall.
"If you had used telekinesis you could have softened that blow," Bobby reminded him, as he jumped out of bed to help Remy to his feet.
"Don'!" Remy warned him. "Don' go dere!"
Bobby ignored the warning. "C'mon, I'm hungry. Be grateful Scott woke us!" Checking the time Bobby realized that they'd been asleep for 4 hours. Well, he better enjoy it. Scott would make them work out shortly.
"Remy, love?" Bobby snaked his arms around his lover and studied his eyes. "You're still half asleep!" But the glow in Remy's eyes was still shining strong. "I wonder?"
//What?// Remy asked as he failed in stifling a yawn. Secretly, he yearned to go back to bed, holding Bobby in his arms while they slept. //Such a rude 'wakenin'!//
//Yes, it was!// Bobby agreed. "I need to get dressed and you better splash some water in your face to wake up!"
"Good idea," Remy had to admit and headed for the bathroom, while Bobby slipped back in to his sweater. As Remy looked at his reflection in the mirror, he gasped. His eyes sparkled, burned! He quickly averted his glance.
"Remy?"
Bobby appeared behind him. He hadn't even noticed him stepping inside! His instincts were failing him!
"What is upsetting you?" Bobby placed a hand on his lover's shoulder. Suddenly he asked, "Do you remember the first time you realized that your eyes were? different?"
"Oui," Remy admitted and shivered violently. //I was? 'bout 5 or 6 I guess. I escaped Sinister's lab only t' hit de streets. I was hungry an' people were starin' at me in a funny way. De boys who ruled dat part of town called me Devil's spawn, tellin' me I possessed demon's eyes an' dat mon père was de devil.//
Looking up at his lover Remy explained, //I didn' even know what dey were talkin' 'bout. What was de devil, or a demon? An' why was I his son? Only later, once I'd learned de meanin' of dose words I understood.//
Bobby experienced Remy's pain through the link and wished there had been a way to prevent all this. "At least now you know the truth!"
"Oui," Remy smiled. "It's good t' know dat my real père, pères ain't de devil."
Bobby smiled weakly. "C'mon, let's get a bite to eat."
Remy nodded his head and pushed away the unpleasant memories. He would have to share most of his past with Bobby, but he needed to do this in small steps, still afraid he would scare his lover away.
As Bobby opened the door, a voice, angry and authoritative echoed through the main hall.
"I demand t' see mon fils! Where is Remy LeBeau?"

 

Chapter Four

Remy's breath caught, hearing that familiar voice. His hands dug in to Bobby's clothes. "Cher?" he asked nervously, wondering what to do. Now that his père had finally arrived he felt strangely shy.
"Why don't you let him know you're here? Sounds like he's determined to find you," Bobby said and smiled warmly.
The decision was taken away from them, as unexpectedly Xavier's voice echoed through the hall. "Monsieur LeBeau, I assume? We've been expecting you."
Jean-Luc looked up questioningly. His sixth sense was telling him Remy was near, but why hide? What had happened to make his son nervous? He vowed to find out.
Straightening his shoulders he looked at the man in the floating chair and noticed that several other people had joined them as well. Digging in his memory he remembered their names.
"Monsieur Xavier," Jean-Luc started, "I demand t' see mon fils! Y're responsible f'r his safety!"
"Remy is fine," Jean replied instead and took in the man's appearance. Jean-Luc's stern expression attracted her attention. Yes, this man knew how to deal with a hurt child, showering him with love and genuine concern. She felt thankful that this Cajun had taken Remy in.
"I want t' see him!" Jean-Luc said steadfast. Louis, his driver, had moved to his left in case a fight would emerge from this conversation.
Bobby's smile brightened and he pushed Remy towards the stairs. "Tell him you're fine. He's worried!"
Remy felt indecisive. How would his père react once he knew the truth about Sinister and his parents? //Cher, I'm nervous.//
"I know," Bobby whispered and folded an arm around his lover's waist. "We'll do this together," he offered. Remy nodded his head and he pulled his lover down the stairs. "Mister LeBeau?" Bobby called out in a firm tone.
Jean-Luc turned around and his eyes almost watered, seeing Remy in good health. He'd been so terribly worried! "Remy, mon fils!" he exclaimed and ignored the others, as his gaze was solely fixed on Remy. Opening his arms he captured his son in them. "Ca va?"
"Ca va bien, merci," Remy muttered in a shaky tone. Jean-Luc's concern swirled all around him and he couldn't shut it out. He didn't want to anyway. For so long he'd hoped his père would show up at the mansion, but he'd never allowed himself to think about it, or speak the words out loud. And finally Jean-Luc LeBeau had arrived. "I missed y', père," he admitted and couldn't hold back his tears any longer.
Jean-Luc held him close, stunned to feel Remy flinch in his arms. He knew these signs and realized his son was going to cry. Looking at Bobby he remembered tante's call. This had to be his son's new lover. "We need t' be 'lone."
Bobby understood the underlying tone and nodded his head. "I'll take you to our room."
Our room, Jean-Luc noted and smiled. Remy needed someone who loved him, cared for him in a way he couldn't. "Show me," Jean-Luc whispered and followed Bobby up the staircase, no longer paying any attention to the X-Men. Only Remy mattered right now.
Bobby opened the door and wondered what to do. If they really wanted to be alone he should wait in the corridor. But as he caught Jean-Luc's nod, he realized the man wanted him to stay. He wondered if Jean-Luc knew about his relationship with his son.
Jean-Luc waited for Bobby to close the door and then sat Remy down on the bed, reassuringly stroking Remy's back. "Y' can tell père what's wrong. Y' know dat, mon fils."
Embarrassed, Remy realized that he couldn't deny this emotional tidal wave inside him. He'd kept it back, not wanting to scare off Bobby, but the voice took him back in to the past. His père would never turn him away, would accept his pain and carry him through it all. "Remember le diable?" he whispered in a broken tone.
Jean-Luc exchanged a look with Bobby, who was anxious to comfort his lover as well. //Bien,// Jean-Luc thought, //dis man really cares 'bout mon fils.// As Bobby finally sat down on Remy's other side, his son's hand immediately snatched Bobby's for support. The gesture made Jean-Luc smile.
"Tell me 'bout le diable," he said curiously. He'd failed in establishing the man's identity, who had hurt his son this tremendously. For some time he'd thought Remy had made him up, but the nightmares had convinced him otherwise.
"His name's Sinister an' he? " Remy's voice faltered. This wasn't the right way to tell his père about the DNA cocktail. "An' he came back t' get me. De X-Men rescued me."
Jean-Luc sighed. "An' I didn' know y' needed help!"
"Y' couldn' know," Remy said soothingly, but the tears still flowed down his face. "We found out dat? he created me in his lab."
"Mon Dieu!" Jean-Luc exclaimed. "Remy, what are y' tellin' me?"
"Sinister used DNA material from certain X-Men t' create his ultimate? weapon." Remy flinched. Although Magnus, Scott and Jean had accepted him as their son, he still felt uncomfortable about the stolen DNA. "Y' met mon mère downstairs," he whispered, scared for Jean-Luc's reaction.
Jean-Luc momentarily forgot to breathe. He'd expected something big had upset his son, but nothing like this!
"Jean an' Scott were kids demselves when Sinister got t' dem? an' Magnus never knew he had a son." Remy sighed and leaned in to Jean-Luc's embrace. Even after all these years he felt safe in those arms. "Sinister used Scott's DNA as a catalyst t' combine Magnus an' Jean's DNA."
"Remy," Jean-Luc mumbled taken aback. He knew his son, knew? "Don' blame y'rself for dat!"
"I did for a short time," Remy admitted and finally found the courage to look in to Jean-Luc's eyes. "But dey? seem glad t' have me as deir son."
"Bien!" Jean-Luc commented. "If dey had denied y', I would have?"
"Don'," Remy pleaded. "I can take care of m'self."
"Remy, mon fils," Jean-Luc smiled and kissed his son's brow.
Bobby had watched in surprise. He'd known Remy had longed for Jean-Luc's presence, but now that the two men were talking he understood the depth of their feelings. Some of Remy's emotions were seeping in to his mind through the link and he couldn't help but like Jean-Luc a lot. Maybe he should leave them alone. Remy didn't need him right now and he wanted them to have some privacy. As he moved to get to his feet, the hold Remy had on his hand tightened.
"Don' cher," he pleaded with his lover and then peeked at Jean-Luc. "Did tante tell y' 'bout Bobby?"
"Oui, she sounded very pleased." Now that the first emotional storm had passed Jean-Luc felt it was time to study Bobby more closely. Remy had never appeared interested in male lovers, mainly because of his horrific experiences during his childhood. This Bobby had to be special.
His eyes discovered the ring around his son's finger. Seemed they were pretty serious about this and that fact pleased him. Remy had been hurt too many times and deserved true love. But there was something else he had to know.
"What 'bout Rogue? I t'ought..." The expression in his son's eyes changed dramatically and he recognized the hurt in them. "She deserted y'?"
Remy couldn't bring himself to answer his père and looked at Bobby. //Please, cher?//
Bobby took a deep breath. "Rogue left him to die in Antarctica. She told us Remy had died. There was no reason for the Black Bird to turn around. We thought she loved him and had done her best to save him."
Jean-Luc's anger sliced in to Remy's mind. "Non, please, père." It almost caused him physical pain, but he couldn't lock it out. They were too close for that. So far he'd managed in partially keeping his shields up, but they'd broken down now.
"Mon fils, what's wrong?" Jean-Luc stated upset. Why was his son in pain?
Bobby realized Remy was incapable of answering that question, so he stepped in. "Remy's an empath?" he started. "Your feelings are affecting him."
"Empat'?" Jean-Luc repeated. "I know 'bout dat accursed charm power, Remy, but?" An empath? However, it explained a lot. Jean-Luc regained control over his rage and noticed the relief on his son's face. "But dere's more!" He knew that expression in Remy's eyes too well!
"I'm also a telepat'," Remy admitted in a shaky tone.
"And he has a talent for telekinesis as well," Bobby added. "But he refuses to use these abilities."
"Remy? Why refuse?" Jean-Luc asked in a gentle tone, vividly remembering the first time they'd seen him use his kinetic powers. Remy had cried as he had blown up his teddy bear. That bear had meant a lot to him, as it had been the first gift Jean-Luc had ever given him.
Remy's eyes swam with tears. "I stole dem? Dey ain't mine," and realized how odd a statement like this had to be, coming from a thief.
Jean-Luc's expression tightened. "C'est la chose la plus stupide que je jamais ai entendu!" but it was so much like Remy to think in that way. "Dis Sinister never gave y' a choice, Remy, so stop thinkin' dat!"
Bobby smiled approvingly. Maybe if Remy were reassured many times he'd start believing it. "Love?" Bobby gently kissed a lock of Remy's hair and sensed the beginning relaxation in his lover's mind and body.
Pleased, Jean-Luc noticed the way Remy pulled away from him to melt in to Bobby's embrace. His son trusted Bobby unconditionally. Oh, he would run a background check on his son's new lover. Would keep an eye on them when he was back in New Orleans, just to make sure Remy wouldn't get hurt again. But he felt hopeful that this was about true love.
"Remy?" Jean-Luc started and waited for his son to lock eyes with him. "Can y' talk t' me in my mind?" He'd heard about telepaths, but discovering that his son was one, was something different.
Uncomfortable, Remy wavered to reply.
Bobby replied instead. "It's quite an experience," he assured Jean-Luc. "Remy and I share this link, which allows us to? read each other's thoughts and feelings."
Jean-Luc raised an eyebrow. "Remy? Den y' must know I love an' accept y'."
"Oui, I do," Remy admitted gingerly. Sitting in between the two men who meant the world to him, he felt strangely at peace. Jean-Luc would always remain his père, the one who had been there for him when he'd almost given up and Bobby? had given him a new reason to live.
Seeing Jean-Luc's pleading glance Remy gave in, but couldn't help feel apprehensive. As he reached out to touch his father's mind, he felt? love, warmth and concern aimed at his person. //Père? Merci for bein' dere when I needed y' most.//
Jean-Luc gasped. Remy's thoughts drifted in to his mind with brutal sincerity. "Petite," he said affectionately, "I'll always be dere for y'!"
Hearing that confirmation Remy closed his eyes, relishing the emotions Jean-Luc emanated. //Merci.//
Jean-Luc stopped pacing the bedroom and looked down at his son, who had curled up underneath the comforter. Their conversation had exhausted him, but Jean-Luc felt confident that Remy had really started to deal with his past. After all these years, Remy had finally found a way and the strength to work though his terrifying memories.
Bobby was still sitting on the bed, as Remy refused to let go of his hand. He'd settled down against the head end and occasionally stroked his lover's silky hair. Jean-Luc proved to be quite a mystery and he found himself wanting to ask the man questions. But he wasn't sure it was his place to do so. They'd just met!
"Y' love mon fils,." Jean-Luc stated. It wasn't a question or an observation.
"Yes, I can't imagine a life without him," Bobby replied and smiled, as Remy stirred and moved to rest his head in his lap. "Remy's the lover I always dreamt of."
Jean-Luc returned to the bed and noticed the tenderness in Bobby's strokes. "Why do y' love him?"
"Remy?" Bobby smiled. "How can anyone NOT love him? He always wants to help even if it means risking his own life. Remy never gives up, although he sometimes needs encouragement to follow through. I love everything about him. His tenderness, his eyes?"
Jean-Luc's genuine smile revealed his approval of this relationship. "Remy needs someone? stabile, strong? I always t'ought dat Rogue was lackin' in dat department."
Bobby had to admit that Jean-Luc had made a valid point. "She has a lot to work through herself and I doubt she could have helped Remy deal with his problems."
"What are his problems?" Jean-Luc asked. This young man had to realize that Remy's past had affected him for the rest of his life.
Much to his surprise Bobby found himself opening up to Jean-Luc LeBeau and he suspected it was Remy's trust in the man that convinced him to do so. "Remy needs acceptance, reassurance that he's worth being loved. I sometimes don't understand his self-doubt. But I know where it's coming from. When he found out that his mother, Jean, hadn't abandoned him, his world changed, I guess. Now, he's starting to realize that we want him, care for him."
Jean-Luc nodded his head once and continued to listen to this young man, who seemed to know his son's personality in detail.
"Remy told me that you aren't prejudiced? That you wouldn't have a problem with him being gay or bi?"
"Oui, c'est vrai. As long as dere's love..." Jean-Luc confirmed.
"My dad is different," Bobby said apologetically. "I doubt he'll ever accept that I love a man."
"His loss," Jean-Luc commented dryly.
Bobby nodded his head. "But Remy? he was distant at first, as if he couldn't believe I had fallen in love with him, without the influence of his charm power. Which is nothing but empathy," Bobby clarified. "The first time we?" his voice trailed off, as he realized what he'd almost said.
"Y' became intimate?" Jean-Luc added slightly amused.
"Yes, he was afraid," Bobby whispered and massaged his lover's temples. "I KNOW what happened to him when he was a child," he said in a gloomy tone. "I'd do anything to take that pain away. Sometimes Remy still wakes up screaming, reliving being raped, though the nightmares are becoming less frequent?"
Jean-Luc remembered the many nights he had spend at his son's side. "I rocked him for hours, when de dreams were extremely bad," he whispered. "I had t' fight for his trust."
Bobby's fingers now tangled in Remy's hair and he sensed his lover was about to wake up. If he wanted to say something to Jean-Luc he had to do it now. "I love him, monsieur LeBeau and I will take care of him."
"Je sais," Jean-Luc admitted. Remy opened his eyes and he loved seeing the relaxed expression in them. "Y' better treat dis one right, mon fils!"
Slightly confused, Remy reached out and found the answer in his lover's mind. //Y' told him all dat?//
//I had to, love.// Bobby helped Remy sit upright and looked up as Jean-Luc LeBeau walked to the doorway.
"Y' keep Remy up here, Bobby," Jean-Luc instructed. "I plan on talkin' t' de X-Men."
//Papa?/ Remy sent, momentarily back in the past. //Don' be too hard on dem!//
Jean-Luc tasted his son's concern and realized Remy cared deeply about them. "I'll give dem a fair chance t' explain everyt'ing t' me," he promised, pleased that Remy had made his request using telepathy. Looking at Bobby he said, "I don' want t' see mon fils downstairs."
"I understand," Bobby replied and snuggled up to Remy. "I know ways that will keep him here." To his surprise Remy blushed at hearing that comment.
Jean-Luc stepped outside and took a deep breath. His son was safe and cared for. Now he was going to talk to the X-Men, reminding himself of Remy's revelation. He had to respect his son's request and would proceed with caution.

 

Chapter Five

Magnus recognized the raging emotion in Jean-Luc LeBeau's eyes. Damn, he'd felt the same way when he'd found Remy on the ice. He'd been angry as well, angry with Rogue, Charles, all the X-Men! Even without knowing that Remy and he were related he'd felt incredible protective of the young man!
"Remy told me 'bout Sinister an' dat y're his real parents," Jean-Luc started, carefully observing three pairs of eyes. He was a good judge of character and although he'd been determined to be mad at them, he found it wasn't that easy.
Jean's face revealed her concern and he remembered Remy's tone when he'd mentioned his mère. Remy cared for these people. He had to give them a chance. Rogue however, was a completely different matter. One he would attend to later.
"I doubt Remy will ever stop seeing you as his 'real' father," Magnus replied. "From what he told me you were the one who got him off the streets."
Jean-Luc nodded his head. This man, this Magnus, might understand his motives for coming here. Family values seemed important to the grey haired man. "Remy was a mess when I took him in. Tried t' steal my wallet," he said and smiled fondly. "Even den, he showed promise as a t'ief."
"We're awfully sorry for what happened," Scott said apologetically. "No matter what Rogue told us, we should have returned to look for him. There's no excuse for failing him."
Jean-Luc pondered the words. "Y're correct," he said eventually. "Y' should have gone back, but I'm sure dat y're extremely angry wid y'rself f'r not doin' so now dat y' know he's y'r fils."
Scott moaned softly. "I never expected that revelation," he admitted. "We," and he looked Jean, "knew that Sinister had obtained our DNA samples, but we never thought he had actually used them."
Jean took over. "I saw his memories, monsieur LeBeau. I'm a telepath and know what horrors he's been through." Sadness slipped in to her soft voice. "We can't change the past, but we can try and make the best of the present and future. We care about Remy and we don't want to hurt him."
Magnus probed Charles' eyes and realized Xavier planned on staying out of this conversation if possible. This was a personal matter between the four of them.
"Remy would like you to stay longer, monsieur LeBeau," Magnus hinted. "I'm staying in the boathouse. There's enough room for another guest. I would like to get to know you? and yes, more about Remy."
Jean-Luc recognized the sincerity in their words. However, he focused his attention on Xavier, whom he blamed for Remy's pain. "Y' failed him! Remy told me 'bout y', an' de way y' tried t' help mutants. But y' turned 'way from mon fils. Y're supposed t' be de most powerful telepat' on Eart' an' y' tell me dat y' didn' know he needed help in dealin' wid his powers? Y' should have told dem to return to Antarctica t' look f'r him. I'm thinkin' 'bout takin' Remy 'way from here before dis happens a second time!" Jean-Luc curiously awaited Xavier's reaction, testing the man to find out if Remy was in good hands or not.
Charles never expected that tirade, but couldn't deny the truth to that accusation. "Yes, I failed him, but? I won't fail him again. Remy has come far since we learned about the charm power, his past with Sinister and the revelation of his parents' identity. Don't take him with you. You would only add to the damage."
Charles knew he had no right to ask Jean-Luc this, but had to try. "Remy needs to get to know his? other parents as well. Please grant him that opportunity."
"I'll stay 'till I'm sure y're speakin' de trut'. If I suspect dat y're failin' him 'gain I will act. Remy's been hurt too many times 'ready. I ain't goin' t' stand by an' watch it happen 'gain!"
"Good, then we understand each other,' Charles said slightly reassured. Jean-Luc had always protected Remy, had cared for the boy when no one else had wanted him. It was only natural he would react like this. "You'll be staying at the boathouse then?"
"Oui," Jean-Luc replied. "I'm goin' t' keep a close eye on mon fils!"
As Jean-Luc returned to their room, he realized Bobby was talking to someone. His heart missed a tiny beat seeing that this stranger possessed white wings and a blue-colored skin. Merde! He should have told his son to send him regular updates on his situation.
Although Remy always insisted that he could take care of himself, Jean-Luc knew that his son needed to know there was someone he could turn to, if needed. //=I= failed Remy as well.// he realized saddened. //I should have made dis trip months ago t' make sure dat he was fine!//
"Monsieur LeBeau?" Bobby smiled and gestured towards the door. "Remy's taking a shower, but?"
"I can wait," Jean-Luc replied and studied the stranger. Why had Remy never told him, written him about the other X-Men?
"I'm Warren," he introduced himself. "Or Ange, as Remy calls me." Warren extended his hand, wondering how Jean-Luc would react.
"Jean-Luc LeBeau," he replied and firmly shook the offered hand. A smile crept over his features. "Remy's always been fond of angels."
"I know," Warren chuckled. "We had a bad start, but later on?" Warren returned to the question he'd been asking Bobby before Jean-Luc had showed up. "So, how's Remy doing?"
"Better," Bobby said and smiled at Jean-Luc. "I really think he needs support right now. He's so used to doing everything on his own?."
"Oui, Remy tends t' keep it all 'side. Doesn' work dat way dough. What's dis 'bout him refusin' t' use his powers?" Jean-Luc asked, remembering their first conversation.
"Remy thinks he isn't entitled to use them because Sinister used stolen DNA. Remy feels guilty for possessing them," Bobby explained patiently.
Jean-Luc nodded his head. "Remy's always been like dis. Y' can' accept dis behavior."
"What can we do?" Bobby asked helplessly. "I can't force him to use them."
"Dat's exactly what y' need t' do!" Jean-Luc stated convinced. "Let me t'ink 'bout dis. Telekinesis, you said?"
"Yes," Bobby confirmed.
Looking at Warren, Jean-Luc continued, "Does dat mean Remy can fly?"
"Yes," whispered a voice coming from behind them. Magnus appeared from the shadows and joined them. "I agree, we can't give in to him."
Jean-Luc's mind was working on finding a solution. He knew his son would sulk until they'd see things his way. "I have a plan," he announced, "but I'll need help."
"What were y' talkin' 'bout?" Remy inquired, as Bobby closed the door behind him. His père's presence had a reassuring effect on him. Jean-Luc was close, that was all Remy needed to know.
Bobby smiled, trying very hard not to think about the plan they'd just agreed on. If Remy realized what they were up to, the plan would fail. "Warren wants to know if you would join him for a walk later? Said something about an old church?"
Remy was drying his hair. He'd taken a shower to get the sleep out of his weary bones. "Oui, I will," he accepted. Maybe Ange wanted to talk to him about something, why else pick the church?
"I like Jean-Luc," Bobby said, changing their topic. "I'm glad he decided to drop by. Looks like you missed him."
"I did," Remy admitted and sat down on the bed next to Bobby. "But I never expected him t' come t' de mansion."
Bobby studied his lover, who had only slung a towel round his hips. "Remy," he whispered and lay down, pulling Remy on top of him. They stayed that way for a few minutes and Bobby enjoyed stroking Remy's bare back.
"Oui, cher?" Remy breathed and cuddled up to his lover. This moment in time was perfect. Words were unnecessary as thoughts and emotions revealed the love they felt for each other.
"You'll never leave me, will you?" Bobby asked softly.
"Never," Remy replied within a heartbeat. "Je t'aime, cher. I'm y'rs for always? or as long as y'll want me."
Bobby smiled, amazed at the way things had turned out. Sinister was gone and Remy was in his arms. Life couldn't get any better than this.
Remy was pacing the hall, waiting for Warren to join him. As he looked out of the window, he realized that most snow had gone. It did feel good not to be reminded of Antarctica for once. Although the memory no longer caused him that much pain, he still vividly remembered the cold.
Magnus had hinted that he'd probably used a magnetic sphere to lock out the worst cold, but somehow he doubted he could do such a thing. It hadn't been until recently that he had even realized that he owned these powers anyway.
"Remy? Ready to go?" Warren flew down the stairs, pulling the parka closer to his body.
Remy smiled tenderly seeing those magnificent wings. He'd hated the ones Apocalypse had given Warren. These were much better. "Oui," he said. "Hope y' don' mind gettin' back t' de mansion on y'r own. Bobby told me père is stayin' in de boathouse an' I would like t' talk t' him before he has t' leave 'gain. I know he can' stay long."
Warren didn't mind, had actually expected it. "So, you're accompanying me to the church?"
"Why do y' want t' go dere?" Remy asked as he stepped outside. It was growing dark and he felt a little apprehensive. It was still cold, although the snow had gone. But if Warren needed to talk to him?
"I just feel like going there," Warren said evasively. His sharp eyes found the right path and he gestured Remy to follow him. He had to distract his friend a little longer. Jean-Luc had told him to be cautious. Remy was smart and would quickly realize that he was being set up.
"I was wondering," Warren started and tried to add the right amount of hesitance to his tone. "You once told me that you had a thing for angels," and he grinned wickedly.
Remy nodded his head. "Oui, I did."
"Ever wanted to fly in one's arms?" Warren asked softly. He was playing a dangerous game and hoped Jean-Luc and Magnus had figured Remy out, if not? "Well?"
Remy stared at the mud, which the snow had left behind. Did Warren know his heart's desires? "Once, long ago, oui. When I sat in church I wondered what it would be like if an ange came t' take me t' heaven? or hell. Didn' care where he would take me, as long as it was 'way from de pain."
Warren smiled. Jean-Luc DID know his son. "This might be the only chance you'll ever get. What do you say, Remy?" and he extended his hands. "Want to fly to the church?"
Remy swallowed hard. "I ain't sure," he said in uncertain tone.
"Come on!" Warren pushed him, "It'll only take a few minutes!"
Severely tempted, Remy hesitantly gave in. "If y're comfortable wid it. I don' want t' push m'self on?"
Warren cut him short. "It's a great evening for flying," and spread his wings, which itched to feel the wind underneath them. "After all, you gave these wings back to me."
"Did not," Remy objected weakly. He began to doubt his decision, as Warren wrapped an arm around his waist and sneaked the other underneath his knees.
"You might want to hold on," Warren advised and his mighty wings took them in to the sky.
Remy panted slightly, as his feet lost contact with the earth. Instead of looking down, he stared at those powerful wings instead. Yes, he understood why Warren had briefly lost his sanity after the tragedy in the Morlocks' tunnels. A tragedy he'd caused. Another failure to add to the list.
"Remy?" Warren said questioningly, as the man in his arms tensed up.
"I remembered de tunnels," he said apologetically. "I should have known better dan t' trust Sinister! How could I?"
"Maybe you had less choice in the matter than you think," Warren commented as his eyes located the church in the distance. "Hank told me Sinister probably removed something from your brain?"
"Hank ain't sure 'bout dat," Remy objected. "=I= made dat mistake, no one else did."
"He used you, Remy," Warren said steadfast. "I'm not holding it against you and I know Storm also thinks that Sinister is the one to blame. You've got to stop putting yourself down!"
"Wolvie taught y' well," Remy quipped.
"Don't change the topic," Warren chided him. Near the church he located three men, waiting for their arrival. In his heart he prayed everything would work out like Jean-Luc and Magnus had planned. "Is that why you refuse to use your new powers?"
Remy remained silent. He wanted to return to the mansion, to Bobby, to his père. Lost in thought, his control began to slip and he never picked up on Warren's thoughts.
"It's time to learn how to fly, Remy!" Warren stated in a heavy tone and pulled back, dropping Remy in to the dark sky.
"I hope you know what you're doing!" Bobby said, addressing Magnus and Jean-Luc. "What if he refuses to use his powers?"
"Then I will catch him," Magnus replied determined. His powers would prevent Remy from crashing on to the earth.
"Remy needs t' understand dat we won' put up wid dis," Jean-Luc explained. "He can be stubborn."
Bobby's hart skipped a beat as Warren's arms released his lover. "Please Remy, stop feeling sorry for yourself!" he prayed. "Use those powers to stop that fall!"
"Non!" Remy screamed in desperation. Warren couldn't do this to him! As his hands frantically grabbed for something to hold on to, Remy realized this fall would probably kill him. "Why do it?" he screamed afraid.
He wasn't ready yet to die! Even in Sinister's lab he'd never given up hope to somehow escape the madman's attention. And now? now he had Bobby's love to live for, pères who loved him. Jean had even asked him to call her mère just once. //I don' want t' die!//
In a flash his life passed by and that instant he sensed the presence of the three men standing near the church. Briefly, he felt a sting of betrayal. Instinctively Remy knew who had put Warren up to this! His père, the man who had saved his life when he'd only been a little boy had now kicked him in to the deep. //Please, papa, don' do dis!// he sent in to the cold air. However, it were Bobby's thoughts he received.
//Use those powers to stop that fall! Please, Remy. Please love!//
//I can'!// he exclaimed in to the minds of all present. It were Jean-Luc's thoughts he allowed in, shutting the rest out.
//Mon fils, accept what y've been given an' fly like an ange, soar t'rough de sky. Do it, Remy!// Jean-Luc fervently hoped that his son had received that thought. Although he knew that Magnus wouldn't let Remy die, he hoped Remy would accept his powers, his heritage. If this didn't work?
Remy closed his eyes. //I don' want t' die!// he screamed telepathically. Suddenly, his fall came to a halt, as the wind seemed to catch him, carry him with it. Had Storm appeared and intervened? Cautiously, he opened his eyes. There was so Storm, no Magnus interfering with his fall. Bobby still stood next to the two men and hadn't used an ice slide to catch him. Maybe Warren?
Looking up, he located Ange several feet above him. No, he was doing this himself. Somehow he had managed to break his fall! Stunned, Remy trembled violently. They had tricked him! Had tricked him in to coming here! Had tricked him in to using his powers! Merde!
Warren descended and then flew next to him, watching Remy closely. "So, how does it feel? Flying?"
Remy didn't react verbally. Instead he gained height and curled up in the midnight sky. The first beams of moonlight engulfed him, as he pulled his legs close up to his chest. //I don' want t' use dese powers!//
"Stubborn chile!" Jean-Luc chided his son. "Look at him!" he said, addressing Bobby. "He's still fightin' himself!" Awed, he stared at Remy, who tried to fly away from the moonlight, which was tenderly caressing him.
"Warren!" Bobby called out. As Angel hovered in front of him, Bobby said, "Take me to him?"
Puzzled, Warren's brow grew knitted. Bobby could use an ice slide to get to his lover. But he decided not to question his friend and grabbed his shoulders. "What are you up to?"
"Just keep an eye on me!" Bobby said softly. As they reached Remy, Bobby extended his arms and snatched his lover's waist. "Remy? Hold me?"
Lost in a trance like state, Remy glanced at Bobby and finally realized that his lover was in human form. Quickly, he took hold of Bobby's hands and pulled him close. "I got y', cher. Won' let y' fall."
"Remy? I always wanted to fly, like Warren does. Show me what it feels like?"
"Y' want t' fly? Wid me?" Remy asked in a shaky tone. "But cher?"
"Please, love?" Bobby smiled and kissed Remy's lips. "This is who you are. I know it's frightening." Bobby gently caressed his lover's face. //But you can't hide for the rest of your life. I'm sure Jean and Magnus want you to use your powers.//
Remy looked down and caught Magnus' nod. Only now he realized that he was probably broadcasting his fear. "Want t' fly wid me?"
"Yes," Bobby confirmed, amazed at the way Remy's eyes flared in the darkness. "I want to fly through the night with my angel."
Lost for words, Remy failed in refusing Bobby's request and tightly embraced his lover. //Y'r ange?//
"Yes, Remy, my angel."
"It worked!" Magnus said, complimenting Jean-Luc.
"Life long experience." Pleased, Jean-Luc smiled. "We should leave dem 'lone now."
"Yes." Warren touched down. He'd been scared when Remy hadn't used his abilities to stop his fall. "You would have caught him, wouldn't you, Magnus?"
Magnus smiled smugly and gestured the two men to follow him to the boathouse. "I think we deserve some steaming hot coffee!"

 

Chapter Six

"Where have ya been?" Logan asked as Warren stepped in to his room. It wasn't like Warren to stay out that late and certainly not without his company.
Warren smiled and sat down on the bed, shooting Logan a brilliant grin. "We taught Remy to fly."
"What?" Logan thought he'd misheard. "Ya did what?"
"Jean-Luc LeBeau insisted we forced Remy to use his powers and it worked. That man knows everything about Remy. It's scary!"
"So Gumbo finally gave in?"
"Yes." Warren considered the man sitting next to him. "I'm tired though. I just want to go to sleep."
"Then we'll do just that," Logan agreed and started to take off his clothes.
Warren slipped in to some comfortable sweats and a moment later they slid underneath the comforter. "Logan?" Warren whispered softly.
"Yeah?" Logan turned on to his left side to study Warren's facial expression.
"I think they're okay with our relationship, at least I didn't get any funny looks."
"Then ya missed the way Drake was starin' at ya!" Logan snorted in contentment. But Warren was right. No one seemed to mind that they'd become an item.
A soft moan coming from his lover drew his attention, but he quickly realized that Warren had fallen asleep. Part of him was still amazed that Warren had decided to stay with him. He'd been certain that once Warren no longer needed him, he would reclaim his freedom.
After spooning himself in to the warm body in front of him Logan pulled Warren in to a possessive hug. Feeling deeply contented, Logan then drifted off in to sleep.
"Bobby? Is that you?" Scott had stayed up, as he'd wanted to wait for their return. Magnus had told him about the incident at the church and he'd cursed them for endangering Remy's life. But deep down in his heart he knew it had been the right thing to do.
"Yes," Bobby groaned. "Can you take over?"
Scott extended his arms and caught Remy in them. The sleeping Cajun never woke, just cuddled up to him. "He looks exhausted. What the hell happened?"
Scott carried Remy in to the living room. He was grateful that Bobby had decided to take Remy back to the mansion and not the boathouse. //Jean? Remy's back,// he notified his wife. A quick flash of awareness answered him and he realized that Jean had received his message.
"My guess is that using his powers like that drained him. We flew for hours, at least it seemed that way," Bobby said apologetically.
Slightly reassured, Scott quickly checked on Remy's breathing and pulse, which seemed normal. "He finally accepted his powers?"
"I hope so. Jean-Luc told Warren to simply drop him from a great height, not giving Remy any choice." Bobby smiled and sat on his heels next to his lover. "Maybe we should let him sleep."
"I doubt that there's anything that can wake him right now!" Scott said jokingly.
Jean dashed in to the room and her eyes immediately found Remy's sleeping form. "We were worried!" she chided Bobby instead, now that Remy couldn't hear her.
"He'll be just fine," another voice joined in.
Turning around, Bobby noticed the smug grin on Magnus' face. Next to him stood Jean-Luc, with a similar expression in his eyes. "Your plan worked, but now he's exhausted."
"Nothing a little rest won't cure," Magnus said reassuringly, remembering the first time he'd used his powers to such an extent. "Let him sleep."
Jean-Luc sought out Bobby's eyes and read the concern in them. As far as he was concerned, Bobby had passed this test too. //Y' really love Remy. C'est tres bien.//
"You!" Scott exclaimed, no longer concerned about waking Remy in the process. "You set Remy up!"
"We had t'," Jean-Luc explained. "I know mon fils. Y' got t' put down de rules or he'll make his own."
"Well, that sounds kinda familiar," Bobby mumbled amused. "I better take him to our room. He'll be more comfortable in bed." His arms ached, as he had carried Remy back to the mansion, but he hoped he could manage those last few steps.
"Allow me," Magnus said and waited for Bobby's permission, seeing the trepidation in the young man's eyes.
Bobby nodded his approval and Magnus scooped his son up in his arms. Together, they made their way to his bedroom. After Magnus placed Remy on to the bed, he stepped away from his son. "I do hope this was the last time we had to convince him that it's okay to use his powers."
"I think so," Bobby replied, "after he got over the initial shock of actually using them, Remy admitted he loved flying like that."
"Let's hope so," Magnus muttered and after nodding his head, he stepped in to the corridor.
Bobby stripped his lover and covered him with the comforter. //Remy?// he tried, but never got an answer. //You're really out of it!// he thought amused and after removing his clothes, he joined his lover in bed.
Remy immediately moved into his arms and Bobby pulled him close. Mesmerized, he wondered about the extent of Remy's powers. Without any doubt the Cajun was one of the most powerful mutants he'd ever met. //You're probably stronger than the professor or Jean? and you still crave protection and acceptance?//
It was that combination that had attracted him to Remy in the first place. That unusual mixture of power and vulnerability, the need to be loved. "Sleep well, my angel," he muttered sleepily.
"No! Get away from him!"
The scream echoed through their room and Warren woke at once, startled by Logan's tone. "What?" he exclaimed, searching the room for a possible intruder. It never occurred to him that Logan was having a nightmare.
Logan's eyes flashed open and his claws extended instinctively. All he could think of was burying them in to Sabretooth's flesh. No one got away with threatening to kill his lover! He'd lost too many loved ones as it was.
"Logan?" Warren finally realized the truth. "It's only a nightmare!" Stunned, he caught those panicking eyes with his. "Calm down!" Clutching Logan's face in his hands he kept Logan's stare prisoner. "Look at me. Everything is fine. We're at the mansion and you had a bad dream!"
Normally he was the one struggling with nightmares and not Logan. But he remembered what Logan had said, had done to calm him down. His hands stroked Logan's back, while his eyes refused to back down. "Logan, you're fine," he said in a firm tone. It was hard to accept that his lover was the one having a nightmare. Logan appeared so strong, so indomitable. What would it take for Logan to be tormented by nightmares?
Warren shivered, but noticed that the madness was leaving Logan's eyes. "Put those claws away," he instructed, afraid they would end up hurting him or his lover. "You can trust me, you know that. Now put them away."
Panting hard, Logan concentrated on Warren's voice. What the hell had just happened? Then the dream returned. Sabretooth had found out about his new lover and had decided to cut Warren's body up in to small slices, after removing his wings. Logan couldn't help but tremble with the memory. Would he ever be free of Sabretooth?
"Logan?" Warren whispered resolved. "Are you? "
"I'm fine, Wings," Logan cut him short. "Did ya think ya're the only one with nightmares?"
"Yes," Warren admitted in an odd tone. "I never thought? What was that dream about?"
"Sabretooth," Logan said eventually. He had briefly considered lying, but couldn't bring himself to do that. He wanted to be able to look in to his lover's eyes without being a liar. "We? go way back."
"Talking about it might help," Warren reminded him, as they settled back down against the pillows. Wrapping his arms around Logan, Warren felt confused. Until now it had been Logan doing the comforting.
Logan smiled melancholy. "Warren, ya're not the only one with a past."
"I never considered that," Warren admitted. "What was that dream about?" Staring in to Logan's clouded eyes he found the truth. "Sabretooth killed me?"
"Yeah," Logan whispered uncomfortably and curled his fingers around his lover's wrists. "I don't wanna lose ya."
"Logan," Warren started fondly. "I'm one of the original X-Men. Trust me, I can take care of myself."
"Ya don't know Creed."
"I know Sabretooth," Warren said in a calm tone. "I can handle him if necessary."
"I doubt that." Logan pressed deeper in to the comfort of the pillows. "Just be careful, Wings."
"I will," Warren promised and leaned in closer to instigate their lovemaking. A kiss, deep and passionate, made Logan growl. Warren nuzzled his lover's skin and wondered who would end up on top this time.
 

The next morning Remy was the first to wake up. Feeling pleasantly warm he inhaled his lover's scent. "Morning, cher," he whispered against Bobby's back. His lover had melted in to his embrace and one of Remy's hands now tangled in Bobby's locks. He never expected a reply, but he got one any way.
//Good morning, love. Feeling any better?// Bobby turned around in Remy's arms until he could study his lover's eyes. After wrapping a leg around Remy's waist, he pulled his lover close. //You were exhausted last night.//
//Did last night really happen?// Remy raised an eyebrow. //Or did I dream it all?//
"No, it happened." Bobby traced Remy's lips with his fingertips. "We flew most of the night. I had to carry you back to the mansion. I think you fainted due to fatigue."
"Fainted?" Remy asked, lapsing back in to speech. His memories were kinda? distorted.
"Yeah," Bobby confirmed. "And you're not going back to 'I refuse to use my powers', understood?"
"Papa put y' up t' dis."
"He did something similar in the past?" Bobby guessed.
"Oui," Remy whispered and trembled with remembered fear. "Never suspected dat Ange was in on it as well."
"Oh, it took some convincing to get Warren to cooperate!" Bobby revealed. "At least Jean-Luc knows how to deal with you!"
Remy smiled weakly. "Y' don' want t' know?" Remembering all the tricks his père had used when he'd only been a child.
"Oh yeah, Jean-Luc wants to talk to you later today," Bobby informed his lover, whose hands were now trailing down his back.
Remy looked up questioningly. "I t'ought we covered everyt'in' yesterday."
"I don't know about that," Bobby whispered and sucked in his breath as Remy's probing fingers grew bolder. "You want to make love?"
"Oui," Remy mumbled before claiming Bobby's lips. //Y' know, cher. Nobody ever wanted t' make love t' me before. De way y' phrase dat? it's different from havin' sex?//
Bobby swallowed hard. //Remy, this is about love in case you hadn't noticed.//
//I? used t' have problems understandin' dat. It always used t' be 'bout lust?//
//That's in the past, love,// Bobby reassured him. //Let's make love?//
//Oui,// Remy sighed. //Oui.//
Later that day Remy made his way over to the boathouse. Time was precious to his père and Remy realized Jean-Luc couldn't stay long. The Guild demanded most of his attention. It still surprised him that his père had taken time off to come here.
As he arrived at the door, he found it open. "Careless, père?." Remy said in a berating tone. Soundlessly, he sneaked inside. He'd neglected his training and was certain his père had already noticed his presence.
"Remy always got in t' trouble."
Jean-Luc's voice echoed through the house and Remy shivered. Sneaking in closer, he identified Magnus' voice as well. Were they discussing him?
"But mostly it was his charm power backfirin' on him," Jean-Luc continued. "Dere was no way Remy could control it. De charm controlled him."
"When I found him in Antarctica I realized that too. I was furious that Charles had ignored Remy's problems."
Remy's head jerked back. He'd eavesdropped on his père before, but this was the first time he overheard a discussion concerning him.
"Remy? had a problematic childhood," Jean-Luc said in a strangled tone. "I never told him, but? days after I took him in, his so-called pimp appeared at my door, demandin' back his property. I paid de bastard off an' told Remy he was forbidden t' venture in t' de streets."
Remy swallowed hard. His mouth had suddenly gone dry. He'd never known his père had paid money for him. It was true, though. One of the older boys had demanded protection money and he'd paid the kid.
"But dere were fun moments too," Jean-Luc said in a chuckling tone. "De first time he scared off some assassins usin' dat chargin' power he owns? It got him an instant reputation an' de assassins never tried t' challenge him 'gain."
Remy decided he'd heard enough and loudly cleared his throat. As he stepped in to the living room, he noticed the lack of surprise on their faces. They'd probably known that he'd been there all along!
"Remy, come here. We need t' talk!" Jean-Luc instructed and looked at Magnus.
Magnus understood the hint and left the room, realizing Jean-Luc needed to discuss something personal with Remy.
"Papa?" Remy said in an uncertain tone.
"Come here, mon fils," Jean-Luc urged him on. At the same time he produced a brief case. "Dere's somet'in' y' need t' know."
Remy's eyes focused on his père as he patiently waited for Jean-Luc to continue.
"I talked t' Belle."
Remy flinched.
Jean-Luc opened the brief case. "She's in love wid an assassin an' dey want t' get married, Remy." Jean-Luc took a deep breath. "I was wrong t' ask y' t' marry her. I know y' like her, maybe even love her in y'r own way, but I had no right t' ask y' t' marry her."
Remy nodded his head. The marriage had gotten him in to trouble in the first place. Maybe if Julien and he hadn't fought, but?
"She had de marriage annulled," Jean-Luc explained, "As it was never? consummated."
Remy's eyes grew big. "She did what?"
"Y're a free man, Remy." Jean-Luc handed him the official papers.
Stunned, Remy studied them. It was true. He was no longer Belle's husband. "Didn' she need my? approval?"
"Y' know de assassins, mon fils. Belle found a way t' get what she wanted."
Remy tucked the papers away underneath his coat. "I don' even feel sad 'bout dis."
Jean-Luc laughed warmly. "I like y'r new lover, mon fils. Bobby is good for y'."
"Oui," Remy admitted. "He's de best t'ing dat ever happened t' me."
Jean-Luc got to his feet and hugged his son. "I can' stay much longer," he confessed.
"Je sais, père," Remy admitted. "Duty calls, non?"
"De thieves Guild, oui. But I'll send tante t' check on y'. Dis time we'll keep in touch!"
Remy wiped away a stray tear that had found a way down his check. "Merci for comin', père."
"Y'll always be mon fils, Remy. Je t'aime."
Remy's head rested against his father's chest and briefly he felt like travelling back in time. This man had saved his life more than once. "Merci, père?"
"Non," Jean-Luc objected, "merci for bein' mon fils, Remy LeBeau."

 

Chapter Seven

The airport
Bobby slung an arm around Remy's waist, as Jean-Luc LeBeau disappeared after being cleared by the security guard at the departure hall. His plane would leave shortly and Remy had a hard time saying good-bye, something Bobby understood only too well. "I'm sure he'll call you once he gets home," he said reassuringly.
Remy forced himself to smile. "I hope so, cher. Now dat he's been here I realize how badly I missed him," Remy admitted saddened.
Bobby sighed heavily. "C'mon, love. Warren is waiting for us."
Remy composed himself. He really wasn't in the right mood to visit the shelters, which Warren had built, but Ange had insisted he tagged along. "Cher?" Remy whispered softly. "Are y' sure y' want t' come wid us?" He wasn't sure how Bobby would react to seeing the misery that ruled the lives of street kids.
"I'm not letting you out of my sight!" Bobby said in a firm tone.
Warren signaled them to hurry along. His private jet was ready for take off. Impatiently, he led the way. "I hope everything will be fine," he ranted. "I followed your instructions, Remy, but? "
Remy placed a hand on Warren's arm. "I'm sure y' did de best y' could. All dat matters t' dose kids is a place t' sleep an' getting' a bite t' eat."
Warren calmed down. Remy was right of course. "Are you sure you can deal with visiting the shelters?"
"I can," Remy assured him, although he wasn't that sure in his heart. It felt like visiting his past, but Bobby was at his side and Ange? Everything would be just fine.
A few hours later they arrived at the first shelter Warren had built. Remy looked about and felt strangely embarrassed. Would things have gone different if he'd had a place like this to turn to?
As he looked about he counted about a hundred kids, mostly boys. The youngest ones couldn't be much older than 5. The oldest were teenagers and Remy shivered seeing the blank expression in their eyes. He knew what they'd been through.
"Y' did a good job," he complimented Warren. The kids were wearing new clothes and an inspection of the kitchen revealed that the cooks were serving nutritious, high calories food items.
"Thanks," said Warren softly. "I should have thought of this a long time ago."
Remy's eyes searched the playground where the younger kids were having a great time. He suspected it was probably the first time these kids could play like this. It felt good to be part of this.
//Remy?// Bobby had picked up on Remy's thoughts and felt saddened himself. There were so many children? //Where are their parents?//
//Who knows,// Remy replied. //Most of dem were abandoned or lost deir parents at a young age an' had t' take care of demselves.//
//This reminds you of your own childhood?//
//Oui, de years on de streets?// Remy drew in a deep breath. //Dese kids are lost souls,// he whispered in to his lover's mind. //A large number of dem will end up bein' criminals, 'cause dey never got de chance t' attend school?//
Warren, who had been talking to the counsellors, returned and looked questioningly at his friends. "Something strange happened."
"What?" Bobby asked, wondering about the mystified expression in Warren's eyes. He never loosened the hold he had on his lover, as Remy's thoughts became less coherent. Maybe they should leave. This was bringing back painful memories and Bobby flinched himself feeling Remy's pain.
"There's a small boy? they think he's a mutant. Hell," Warren whispered, "they're pretty sure he's a mutant. Maybe we should take him back with us to the mansion so the professor can have a more thorough look at him."
Remy stirred. "Where is de chile?"
"They other kids avoid him," Warren said and gestured them to accompany him. "He's in his room, apparently the one place where he feels rather comfortable."
Remy looked up at the building, as if penetrating the walls, searching for the boy Warren had mentioned. "I want t' talk t' him."
"I thought so." Warren led the way and finally arrived at a small room at the end of the corridor. "He's been here for one week now. Seems the staff can't get him to leave his room."
Remy pulled away from Bobby as he impatiently opened the door. Something was luring him closer, a pain similar to his was tugging at the edges of his mind. "Petite?" he whispered and searched the room.
A small boy, no older than 10, sat hunched in the corner. Legs pulled up to his chest, head buried between his knees, his face was hidden from view. "Petite?" Remy repeated, trying to label the emotions entering his mind. These weren't his. They belonged to the boy.
"Leave me alone!" the boy said between clenched teeth.
Bobby smiled, knowing that order would only draw Remy closer. Curiously, he closely followed his lover. //Remy? What is this you're picking up?// The alien emotions had also invaded his mind.
//Loneliness, abandonment? cher, dis feels like bein' back in de past. Père must have felt like dis when he found me.//
//Is the boy a telepath?// Bobby asked.
//Non, I lowered my shields?// Remy explained and knelt beside the small grey haired boy. ''Allo, petite.? what's y'r name?"
"I told you to leave me alone!" the boy insisted.
"Can' do dat," Remy objected and cocked his head to catch a glimpse of the boy's eyes. "Want t' see a magic trick?"
The boy hissed. "There's no such thing as magic!"
Remy grinned and locked eyes with Bobby. He was definitely picking up something, but?
A toy on the bed attracted his attention. "I'll make dat teddy bear fly?"
"You can't do that!" the boy said resolved.
Remy hardly had to focus his powers on the object. A moment later it hovered in front of the boy's face. "Y' callin' me a liar?" Remy quipped. As the boy raised his head, Remy's breath caught. The eyes were black, deep pools of shadows. "Y're a mutant, petite," he whispered, knowing only too well what the kid had suffered because of those eyes.
The boy first stared at the teddy bear, as if he wanted to break Remy's hold on it. Then, he hesitantly peeked at Bobby's sparkling blue eyes. The third man stood in the doorway and had blue skin. He'd never seen someone like that before!
"Look at me, petite," Remy said pleadingly, hoping to somehow reach this troubled soul.
Finally the boy lifted his eyes. "What?" he whispered upset, seeing the red on black eyes. "I can't believe it." His left hand reached to touch Remy's face, but he halted in mid air quickly pulling back, but it was too late.
Remy had seen the claws and curled his fingers around them. "Don' be 'shamed," he chided the boy softly, examining the claws, made of bone which had grown out of his fingertips. "What's y'r name, petite?"
Bobby sat on his heels, next to his lover. "Remy, I definitely think the professor needs to have a look at him."
"Oui, cher," Remy agreed and waited for the boy to answer. "What's y'r name?" he repeated.
The boy looked away, apparently feeling embarrassed or shy. Remy decided not to peek at his emotions or thoughts. The boy was entitled to his privacy. "My name is Remy," he started and nodded towards his lover, "and this is Bobby."
"I'm Warren," Angel said and flashed a stunning grin. The shelters were already paying off. They had located a mutant who seemed to be in need of help.
"My name?" The boy wavered to continue. "The other kids call me warlock."
"Warlock?" Bobby repeated. "That name doesn't suit you."
The boy smiled apologetically. "Must be the eyes and the claws."
"What name did your parents give you?" Warren asked wearily.
"Michael, they named me after an archangel!" The boy looked away, waiting for the condescending remarks, which usually followed.
Warren approached the small boy. "We may have something in common then," he said, "maybe I'll show you later. We're going to head back home. Want to join us?"
Michael shook his head. "Know better than to trust strangers."
"Listen, petite. I know y' don' trust us an' I understand. I really do, but y've got t' come 'long now. Y' can' stay here."
"Why?" Michael objected. " Here, I get food for free and a bed that I don't have to share with anyone."
Remy sighed and reached out. Slowly, he enfolded Michael's mind in warmth. "Please, petite, trust me."
Michael wasn't sure why he was considering changing his mind and accepting their offer. There was something about the man with those red on black eyes? "Okay, I'll tag along, but if I don't like it, I'm gone."
Remy nodded his head. "Merci, petite, we won' fail y."
"Why do you talk that funny?" Michael asked as he got to his feet.
"Funny?" Remy repeated in mock disbelief. "He t'inks I sound funny!"
"C'mon," Bobby said impatiently. "Let's get back to the jet."
"We're going to fly?" Michael asked in a shy tone. "I've never flown before."
Remy extended his hand and offered it to the boy as support. Facing the other children might be hard on Michael. The boy stared at the hand in obvious confusion.
"I don' bite," Remy quipped and cocked his head.
"That's not it," Michael assured him, hesitantly raising his right hand. "The ?claws? I don't want to hurt you."
Bobby felt Remy's pain, hearing those words. Not so long ago his lover had spoken them, afraid to accidentally charge his flesh. One of his hands stroked the boy's hair, amazed that it had turned grey at such a young age. "Maybe we'll introduce you to someone else who possesses claws, but his are made of metal."
Michael still hesitated, though Bobby's words made him feel more comfortable. "I'll promise to be careful," he said eventually, as he placed his left hand in Remy's.
Remy smiled and squeezed the boy's fingers. "Y' won' be comin' back here. Is dere anyt'ing y' want t' take wid y'?"
The boy searched the room with his eyes. "No, nothing in here belongs to me anyway."
"Tres bien," Remy commented and locked eyes with Bobby. "Let's go home."
Eyes stung his back as they walked towards the car. Kids were staring at him and sometimes Michael heard a whispered, "Warlock! Witch!" He tried hard to shut the voices out, but? hearing those words hurt.
Remy suddenly bent down and picked him up, carrying him to the car. "Don' listen t' dem, petite."
"Why do you keep calling me that? What does it mean?" Michael asked and pushed himself closer to his new protector. Hopefully these men had no evil intentions. They seemed nice, but? one never knew.
Remy caught Bobby's eyes as he placed the boy on the back seat.
"It's means something like little one," Bobby said and smiled. "His father still calls him that!"
"Cher!" Remy tried to sound annoyed, but couldn't pull it off. All he could think about was this boy with black eyes and claws. Was it fate that had led him here? Non, he didn't believe in fate. Had to be coincidence!
Warren slid behind the wheel and waited for Bobby to take a seat next to him. Remy gingerly slipped on to the back seat. "What's wrong, Remy?" Warren asked as they left the shelter.
Remy looked at the boy, whose suspicious eyes never left his. "Not'ing, Ange," he mumbled.
"Ange? You really talk funny!" Michael whispered and smiled weakly. It felt good to be away from the other children, which loathed his sight.
"It's French," Bobby explained, as Remy remained silent.
"French?" Michael considered the answer. "Don't know that language. So where are we going?"
"The mansion," Warren replied. "The professor runs a school for? people like us, mutants. You'll be the youngest there, but I think you'll like the place and the people."
"Will see," Michael said without commitment. He still wasn't sure he could trust these people. Peeking at the man next to him, he asked, "How come your eyes are like that?"
"Y' don' ask easy questions," Remy muttered. "Where are y'r parents?" he answered with a question of his own.
Michael shrugged his shoulders. "Dead. Died last year. We were homeless. We lived on the streets for years."
Remy tentatively continued his interview, as Warren drove back to the airport where his jet was waiting for them. "How did y' survive on de streets, petite?"
Bobby caught the rest of Remy's question in his mind.
//Hopefully y' didn' have t' sell y'rself like I did.//
Turning his head Bobby managed to lock eyes with his lover and sent him thoughts of love and affection.
Remy smiled, receiving that reassurance of their love. //Merci, cher, but I can deal wid dis.//
//Just remember that you don't have to do this on your own,// Bobby told him and smiled. It was quite amusing to watch Remy trying to deal with the boy. Michael had a mind of his own and was probably as stubborn as the Cajun.
"Wasn't that hard," Michael said and grinned. "I managed to get my hands on food stamps and there was this old lady who often brought me sandwiches. I used to live in the park and it's amazing what you can find in trash cans!"
Relieved, Remy leaned back. A sigh left his lips. He'd really been afraid that his kid had experienced the same horrific traumas, which he had! "C'est tres bien," he whispered. Michael might be suspicious, but not a victim of mental or physical abuse. //Merci, mon Dieu.//
Bobby received that thought and knew how relieved Remy had to be. To be honest, he wasn't sure Remy could have handled a different answer. Yes, his lover acted like he could cope with everything, but he of all people knew the mask for what it was. Remy would always be vulnerable.
"Why do you want to know that?" Michael asked, puzzled by the man's expression.
Thankfully, they'd arrived at the small private airport and Remy used that as an excuse not to answer that question. "Get in t' de plane," he said instead and felt grateful, as Warren took hold of the child's hand. Feeling a little dizzy he leaned against the car, telling himself to put his shields back up. He was picking up too many thoughts and emotions, not only his friends' but also the pilot's and?
//Remy? C'mon, focus!// Bobby admonished him. //Look at me.//
Remy licked his lips and followed Bobby's instructions. "I? I got carried 'way," he said apologetically.
"That's understandable." Bobby gently took hold of his lover's hands. "We're doing the right thing. Someone needs to look after this boy and the professor?" Suddenly, Bobby realized what was wrong. "It's okay, love, no one is going to hurt Michael. He won't go through the pain you had to deal with. It's okay." Bobby wrapped his arms around Remy. "Even Warren likes him."
"Must be de name," Remy said, trying to sound jokingly, but failing miserably. He couldn't deny the truth though. Bobby was right. He was scared the boy had been sexually abused and damaged in the process. "Maybe we were jus' in time," he said hopefully.
"I think we were," Bobby assured him and walked his lover to the plane. "Imagine the look on Wolvie's face when he sees Michael? and the claws!"
Remy smiled weakly. "Oui, dis might get interestin'."
"Look!" Michael exclaimed. He'd never seen a plane from the inside before and was running back and forth from the cockpit to the back. "This is cool!"
Remy grinned in spite of everything. It was amazing the way Michael's mood had changed since they'd left the shelter. "Y' need t' sit down durin' de flight," Remy admonished him. Michael dashed in to a chair and stared out of the window.
Warren gestured his friends to take a seat as well. "Something tells me that the quiet days at the mansion are definitely over."
"Quiet days?" Bobby quipped. "When was that?"
Warren laughed warmly and noticed the way Remy was studying Michael. "It's a good kid, Remy. Don't start brooding!"
"Y' definitely took too many Wolvie lessons!" Remy joked in a forced tone. Warren was right. Michael's mind felt honest and kind, but the boy wouldn't trust them like that. "He's goin' t' drive Henri an' de professeur crazy," Remy muttered softly.
Bobby leaned in closer and pressed a kiss on the back of Remy's neck. "I don't think that will be a bad thing at all!"

 

Chapter Eight

"Dis is y'r new home," Remy said softly, as he opened the door. He appreciated the fact that Warren had called the professor from the plane to inform him of their guest. According to Angel, Xavier had reacted rather enthusiastically and he suspected that the professor was looking for an opportunity to prove to them -no, him- that he was serious about helping =all= mutants.
During the few moments their minds had touched in the study, Xavier's thoughts had revealed guilt for having failed one of his students that profoundly. However, he didn't blame Xavier, knowing the professor had had a rough time himself dealing with his alter ego Onslaught. But at times he sensed that Magnus still blamed the professor.
//Remy?//
Bobby's thoughts wrapped themselves around his and he smiled. No matter what would happen, Bobby would always be at his side. He couldn't find the words to tell Bobby how much he cared for his lover or how deep his love ran. //Cher?//
Bobby smiled. He'd only intended to break Remy's vicious circle of dark thoughts. "How do you think Logan will react?" Bobby studied Michael, who was tightly holding on to Remy's left hand. The three of them liked the boy, but it was obvious that Michael had instantly taken to Remy. Maybe it was because of their eyes?
"We'll find out," Remy whispered and noticed Warren's sparkling gaze. Such improbable love! But he was happy for both his friends. Logan had always been a loner, who'd never felt accepted and Warren? Maybe he'd learned not to judge too quickly, at least he hoped so.
"Remy? Am I going to live here?" Michael asked awed. The mansion was the biggest house he'd ever seen. "It's? clean, warm? looks like a nice place."
Bobby closed the door behind them and identified Hank's amused chuckle. Oh boy, Michael's first reaction to McCoy might be worth taping!
"Oui, petite? if de professeur agrees, y'll stay here?" Remy said cautiously. He hoped Xavier wouldn't turn the boy away. Being brutally honest with himself, he admitted to feeling apprehensive.
"Ah, the prodigal son returns!" Hank quipped. "Who's your little friend?"
Michael's eyes grew big seeing Henry McCoy. Even though living on the streets had made him cautious, he'd never lost his sense of humor. Smiling at his new friend he focused on those red and black eyes, so strangely familiar to his and said, "That's one big fuzzy teddy bear? think you can make him fly too?"
Warren almost choked hearing that little challenge. Yeah, he'd been right. The quiet days definitely were over! Studying Remy he liked what he saw. There was a glow to those eyes, which were usually filled with gloom. "I want to see that one!"
"Don't encourage him, Warren!" Hank exclaimed, but smiled nonetheless. He was already studying the child, wondering what the X-factor had brought forth in this mutant.
"Yeah, Remy, can you do it?" Bobby said and gently poked his lover. "I'd love to see Hank afloat in mid air!"
Truth was that he didn't know if he could pull it off and Remy wasn't looking forward to finding out. It felt wrong to use, no abuse, his powers in that way. //But what's life wit'out a li'l fun?//
A wave of approval originating from his lover made him give in. Unintentionally, his hands turned in to fists as he concentrated his powers on McCoy.
Hank looked down at his feet, suddenly realizing that they no longer touched the floor. "Remy LeBeau! Put me down this instant!" he demanded in a mock angry tone.
"Non," Remy chuckled. "Dis is for all de times y' ran dose scans on me!"
Hank failed in being angry at Remy. Actually, this was quite an experience. It was well worth knowing that Remy had gained this level of control over his new powers.
Michael chuckled and managed to tickle McCoy underneath his toes. A loud growl left McCoy's lips, but Michael didn't feel threatened. His instincts told him that Henry McCoy wouldn't hurt him. He actually liked this giant fur ball! How would that fur feel underneath his fingertips? He was determined to find out.
"Put him down, Gumbo."
Warren's head turned, hearing that familiar voice. He'd missed Logan and walked over to the other man to stare in to Logan's eyes, =knowing= with absolute certainty that his lover had missed him too.
Logan nodded towards his lover, but then focused on the small boy. "What did ya brin' home this time, Gumbo?"
"Dis time?" Remy repeated, half stunned, half puzzled.
"Last time ya brought Mags with ya," Logan said in a calm tone. He'd accepted by now that Magneto wasn't leaving and he couldn't blame the man. Magnus had the best reason for staying, his son!
Remy shrugged his shoulders. Looking back, it was probably the best thing that could have happened to them. He doubted that the X-Men would have succeeded in freeing him without Magnus' help.
"Logan," he said and stepped closer. "I t'ink dis petite might need y'r help down de road." Remy gently squeezed Michael's hand and showed it to Logan. The claws, made of bone, were dangerous weapons. "Maybe y' can help?"
Logan stared at the boy and then sat on his heels, taking hold of those hands. Slowly, he ran his fingers over the bone. "This feels real, kid. When did they start to grow?"
Michael stepped back, as he wanted to stay close to Remy. "Last year. Didn't have them when I was little," he said in a proud tone, "but last year?"
"Are they still growin' or did it stop?" Logan asked and caught Hank's gaze. They had to look in to this matter and he understood why Remy had asked his help in particular.
"Stopped." Confused, Michael didn't know whom to concentrate on. " One broke off a few months ago? grew right back though."
"How did that happen?" Hank asked interested.
"Accident," Michael replied and then grew quiet. His stomach growled loudly and made the men smile.
"Come on, young man. Looks like you're hungry," Warren stated and extended his hand.
Michael accepted. He wasn't sure why these people were this kind to him, but he wasn't complaining. Secretly, he hoped he could stay here. This was much better than the shelter!
Warren, Logan and Michael disappeared towards the kitchen, leaving the others behind.
Remy wrapped his arms around his waist and felt strangely speechless. Visiting the shelters had brought back memories he didn't want and now that Michael was no longer providing a distraction, they crashed in on him.
"Where did you find him?" Hank asked. Suddenly he noticed Remy's paleness and concerned, he closely observed his friend and former patient.
"De shelters," Remy whispered. "I?" Unexpectedly, he turned away from Hank and ran up the staircase.
"What?" Hank asked Bobby, who didn't appear that surprised.
"This was hard on him," Bobby explained to his friend. "And it brought back memories he's still trying to deal with. Remember when you told me that he feels ashamed?"
"Yes, I do," Hank confirmed. They'd had that conversation after the X-Men had defeated Sinister. "I told you that I wasn't sure you could help him deal with this."
Bobby nodded his head. "I'm afraid you're right, but I know someone who can."
"Magnus?"
"Yes," Bobby whispered. "Let's face it. Remy's still hurting inside and it's the child inside him, which is in pain. Whom did we turn to when we were scared? Our parents. Remy had to take care of himself."
Hank slightly bowed his head. "You've gained great insight in how Remy? feels and thinks."
"Not difficult, considering that his thoughts are in my head," Bobby shrugged the compliment off. "Hank, I'll talk to you later."
"Of course," Hank replied, understanding why his friend had to leave. "I got a little patient to check on." Michael had already made an impression, Hank admitted privately. "He will fit in just fine."
"Ice cream!" Michael exclaimed and squeezed the plastic bottle, which held the chocolate sauce. As far as he was concerned he'd gone to heaven! There was plenty of food and Warren had told him that he'd get his own room. "But there has to be a teddy bear in it!" he demanded with a grin. He didn't really care about the bear, but wanted to find out if these grown ups were willing to get him one!
"You're?" Warren sighed. Ice cream, which had mingled with chocolate sauce, was dripping from the boy's lips and staining his clothes.
"I never had ice cream before!" Michael admitted in a sudden shy tone, as his spoon dropped on to the table. He hadn't even bothered to ask if it was okay for him to dive his spoon in to the delicious substance. What had come over him? It wasn't like him to take things for granted.
"It's okay, kid. We got plenty," Logan assured him, still fascinated by those claws. However, the boy did have problems handling the spoon. Those 4 inches of bone caused Michael a lot of discomfort and he wondered? Could Hank shorten them? That issue could be tackled later. First, the boy needed to grow accustomed to his new home. "I'm goin' to get Chuck," he announced. Xavier should talk to the boy.
Absentmindedly, Warren nodded his head. The rate with which Michael was consuming the ice cream troubled him. "Slow down, or you'll end up with an upset stomach!"
Michael grinned. "I don't mind."
Bobby sighed heavily as he sat down next to his lover on the bed. Lying on his stomach, face buried in the comforter, Remy was tightly hugging a pillow. The thoughts crashing in to his mind, told him what Remy needed to hear. His lover wouldn't take this step without his explicit permission. "It's okay, love. I won't be upset. I know you need to talk to Magnus. Just go and see him."
"Cher?" Remy started and kept back the images that threatened to seep in to Bobby's mind via the link.
"C'mon," Bobby grabbed his lover's wrists and gently pulled him to his feet. "I'm sorry that I can't help you with this. You shouldn't feel ashamed. Your thoughts or memories will never revolt me."
Remy flinched. He'd known for certain that he'd stopped those memories from travelling down the link.
"You did," Bobby assured him. "The link has narrowed a little, but as long as you don't close it down, I won't protest. I don't need to experience your memories to know what you feel. I've been part of your mind for these last weeks, remember?"
Remy's lips twitched. "Cher, I never wanted t'?"
"You'll never burden me with your pain, Remy," Bobby assured him and rested his forehead against his lover's, staring deeply into those magnificent eyes. "Want me to walk you to the boathouse?"
Remy shook his head. "I don' want y' t' feel shut out, cher, but? Magnus has been dere? When he told me 'bout de camps durin' de holocaust? he mentioned small chil'ren doin'? t'ings so deir parents got meds or food?"
"Remy, you don't need to defend your feelings. I understand." Bobby felt a little saddened. "I just hope that one day you won't feel that ashamed any more and that you can let me in so I can share your pain." Watering eyes stared back at him with so much love in them, that Bobby passionately kissed his lover's lips. "I love you, stupid Cajun."
"Y' said dat when y' carried me out of Sinister's lab," Remy whispered, stunned that he was capable of speaking the name without stuttering.
"Yeah, and I meant every word of it. I still do," Bobby whispered and tightly hugged his lover. "Now get going! I'm going to check on Michael in the meantime."
"Merci, cher," Remy said before opening the door. "Merci for understandin' an' bein' patient wid dis stupid Cajun!"
Bobby grinned and shoed his lover from the room. "Yeah, maybe Magnus can help you," he whispered after Remy had left his bedroom and then set out to find Michael to give him his own teddy bear.
Magnus was reading a book, an activity he hadn't indulged in for years. Charles had lent it to him and he was actually smiling as he turned the page. When had been the last time he'd occupied himself with such an 'ordinary' activity?
He'd chosen to stay here to get to know his son, to be there when he needed support. His mission had to wait. Although it would always be his calling to create a safe environment for all mutants, his son's well being was his first priority.
The hesitant knock on the door disturbed his concentration. He didn't have to be a telepath to know that it was Remy. The layers around him shifted, announcing his son's presence. Even subconsciously, Remy was still in touch with the magnetic sphere. "Yes, enter."
Remy gingerly opened the door and peeked inside. "If I'm interruptin' I can come back later."
Magnus smiled, put away the book and gestured him to step inside. "Please sit down," he invited his son in and pointed him towards the chair opposite him. Remy's knitted brow told him something had upset the young man. He refrained from asking, knowing Remy had to make that first step.
"Can y' tell me more 'bout de camps y' mentioned when we first met?" Remy said after a silence, which had lasted several minutes. It had taken him that long to gather his courage.
"Ah," Magnus mumbled, suddenly realizing why his son had sought him out. He'd expected Remy to come here to discuss this with him, but not this soon. "What do you want to know?"
"De chil'ren," Remy said in a hesitant tone? "Did y' ever talk t' dem?"
Magnus leaned back and considered his answer. They were treading on dangerous grounds and he had to proceed with caution. "They were kept in a separate section of the camp. The parents cried when their children were taken away from them. Sometimes the guards would allow a child to 'visit' his parents? in return for certain favors." Magnus caught Remy shivering and forced himself to continue in a calm tone.
"You see, as Jews we didn't match Hitler's standards and the guards didn't care about what happened to the prisoners. After a while they were put on a train and would never return from the gas chambers any way. At times the sky was black with smoke, but the ovens couldn't deal with the large amount of corpses," Magnus' voice softened.
"I've seen the pain, the terror, felt it myself. You can talk to me, Remy." Instinctively, he knew how important it was that Remy trusted him not to break down in the midst of his admissions.
Remy swallowed hard. He'd come here to talk to Magnus and now he was getting cold feet. To admit his past meant allowing it in and that scared him.
Magnus cocked his head. Remy was so near to letting down his walls, but needed just a tad more encouragement. "Remy? son, let's move this conversation over to the couch."
That request took Remy by surprise. "Pourquoi?"
"Do you trust me to see you through this?" Magnus asked and drew in a deep breath.
"Oui," Remy replied almost instantly.
Magnus got to his feet, walked over to Remy and curled his fingers around his son's. This particular approach had worked before and hopefully it would work again. Slowly, he guided Remy to the couch and then took a seat next to his son. His fingers ran gently over Remy's knuckles, reassuring him everything was fine. Then, he waited patiently for Remy to start talking.
"I did have a choice," Remy whispered softly. He appreciated it that Magnus didn't push him on. "I still don' understand why I fought so hard t' stay 'live."
Magnus nodded his head, he'd heard this before? a long time ago, after the camps had been closed and the prisoners released, they had suddenly faced freedom... and survivor's guilt.
"Deat' was always an option. But? I wanted t' live. Every time dat I looked t'rough a window an' saw a happy family I wanted t' be part of dat. But? I had t' fight f'r a slice of bread an' when I was starved? dese men took me home, offered me food?"
Magnus' firm expression didn't falter and he pulled his son close to his chest. As he enveloped Remy in a hug he said, "You did what you had to do in order to survive."
"But," Remy objected and only now realized that his head was resting against Magnus' shoulder. "I knew dat what I was doin' was somehow wrong. I was so?"
"Young, alone," Magnus ended the sentence for him. "Remember, Sinister had you in his lab for 5 years. You didn't know much of the world and that made you an easy victim."
Remy vehemently shook his head. "It ain' dat simple!" Slowly, he raised his head to peek at Magnus. "I was too much of a coward t' stop it? "
"No," Magnus replied in a stern tone, "you were courageous and wanted to survive."
Tears escaped Remy's eyes as he sobbed softly in Magnus' arms. "It still hurts."
"I know, son." Magnus stroked the dark locks and tucked Remy's head underneath his chin. "I hurt as well." A surprised moan revealed Remy's puzzlement and Magnus explained, "I tried my best to keep the guards away from the children, from the weak, but my powers weren't as strong as they are now."
"Y're a good homme," Remy whispered and tried to compose himself. The tears however kept flowing and he wondered if the pain would ever go away.
"I also hurt because I couldn't protect you. Parents are supposed to protect their children and Sinister took that away from me, from you?" Annoyed at his own incapability to phrase his feelings, he kissed Remy's brow. "What I'm trying to say is that I love you, Remy. I should have been there to scare the monster away, should have searched harder when I couldn't find that small boy after I devastated Sinister's lab."
Remy smiled in spite of his pain. "Y' t'ought I'd died in de attack. I don' blame y'."
Magnus gently rocked his son in his arms. "I know the pain you carry inside, Remy. I know the shame you're struggling with and I want you to know that I don't love you less because of it. You're a survivor, son and now that you know who you are, you've got to accept your past and move on."
"But how?" Remy whispered lost. He felt safe in Magnus' embrace and wished his father had found him after he'd fought off Sinister. This was a unique experience? even Jean or Bobby couldn't make him feel this safe.
Magnus smiled as some of Remy's feelings slid inside his mind and he didn't fight it, didn't put up any defenses at all. Determined, he pulled Remy to his feet.
"Pourquoi?" Remy muttered, but didn't resist as Magnus pulled him in front of the mirror at the wall.
"Describe the young man staring back at you. Who is he? What do you see?"
Confused, Remy tried to make sense of Magnus' request. "I don' understand," he admitted.
"What's his name?" Magnus asked in a resolute tone. He had to confront Remy with the present now that they'd acknowledged the past.
At a loss, Remy's eyes pleaded with Magnus not to do this.
"Tell me," Magnus ordered.
"What if I say dat I don' know?"
Magnus nodded his head. "Try harder."
"Remy?"
"Good," Magnus was satisfied. This was a start. "Now describe him to me."
"Devil's eyes," Remy whispered on impulse. Magnus didn't berate him and he wondered why. It had been a slip of the tongue? something he'd only meant to think.
"Continue."
"I don' want t' do dis," Remy objected weakly, but Magnus had a tight hold on him and wouldn't let him get away with this.
"Good, then I will go first," Magnus sighed, realizing their next step. While resting his chin on Remy's shoulder, he smiled compassionately. "I see a young man with beatific eyes. He's definitely handsome." Magnus waved away Remy's protest. "Not your turn, remember?"
Remy gave in, feeling distinctly uncomfortable.
"I see a young man who has suffered tremendously, but who has found the courage to be the best he can. He deserves to be loved and is loved by his parents, lover and friends. He's afraid to let them in though. This young man is used to take care of himself, because he has been hurt really bad when he was little."
"Please, stop," Remy whispered. Everything Magnus had said this far was the truth, but? "Y're describin' someone else." As Magnus didn't reply, he stared in to his father's eyes. "If it hadn' been for Bobby I don' t'ink I would have stayed at de mansion? I know he loves me, but I can' understand why. I still t'ink he deserves much better. I'm a t'ief? I never did anyt'in' t' earn his love?"
Magnus smiled and continued to hug his son. Remy might not realize it, but he needed the comfort, the contact, closeness. "I'm going to call Bobby," he suddenly announced and Remy's big eyes stared at him in bewilderment.
"Pourquoi?"
"Because we need to get some things in the open and I need Bobby to help me. You're going to sit down and I want you to think about that man I described to you."
Remy obeyed, but wondered if Magnus had gone mad. "Don' call Bobby. I came here 'cause?"
"Bobby needs to know. You trust me, don't you?" Remy wouldn't protest fiercely. After all, he'd come here for help. Picking up the phone he watched his son. Remy looked lost, which pleased him. He wanted Remy to doubt himself. It would create an opening for the truth to slip through.

 

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