Adult-FanFiction.org : Marvel 'Verse

Hearts' Desires	By : RayvenMoon Category: X-men Comics > Slash - Male/Male > Remy/Logan Views: 2086 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: X-men belong to Marvel Comics and Disney. not making any profit off this particular piece of work.

Chapter List
- 1-Hearts' Desires
- 2-Long Hard Road
- 1
- 2
A/N: You guys are lucky enough to get to see the revived second chapter before anyone else. Had completely skipped over Storm and Kurt when this was originally posted. So enjoy
Warning: semi graphic description of rape. ---- indicates begining and ending if you want to skip.

Chapter Two: Long Hard Road

Remy hit the of blanket with a thud, he didn’t make a sound though that would give his captors too much satisfaction to know that they could still get a reaction from him. He pushed himself up into a seated position slowly as the door swung closed behind him. Sinister hadn’t shared his latest plans, which was unusual. Normally Sinister took sick pleasure at telling his test subject just what lay in store for them. This time however the scientist was being very tight lipped and that scared Remy more than anything. It meant that whatever the madman’s plan was it wasn’t good and it certainly wasn’t going to end well for the thief. There was something worse that scared him about what was going on. Sinister had revoked Sabertooth’s privileges. The feral of course had hit the roof, but the other mutant had been steadfast in that from now on his project was no longer to be harmed. At least physically anyways. Which of course still left him a target for the marauders’ mind-games.

Dragging himself into a seated position he rested his head against the cold metal wall. A long bang fell into his face that he didn’t bother to brush way. If he could have Remy would have taken the coward’s way out by this point and killed himself. Thankfully the collar kept him from seeing if it was possible to charge himself into oblivion. Well him and Sinister, no point in suicide if you can’t take someone down with you at the same time.

Of course he also knew that Sinister’s warning would only hold Sabertooth off for so long. Eventually the feral would find the temptation of his body worth whatever punishment that came his way. He had actually started to nod off when the sound of a muffled argument began to filter through the door. It seemed like three weeks was long enough for Creed to come to a decision. The door swung open so hard that it bounced on its hinges. Vertigo lay on the floor, a pool of blood steadily forming. Illuminated by the hallway light stood Sabertooh, one clawed hand dripping with blood and thicker things. “Time for a little fun runt.”

----

Even though Remy had long since stopped fight, choosing to retreat into the recesses of his mind, that didn’t derail Sabertooth’s sick and twisted pleasure. If anything what looked like compliance made it even more fun for the disturbed mutant. Remy was prepared for the first blow, his teeth drawing blood, as Victor crouched over him with a growl. The bloodied hand wrapped itself up in his long hair, forcefully yanking his head back. A hard shudder ran through him as Creed’s tongue slide over his neck. “I don’t care if Sinister guts me. Your body is too sweet to resist.” The last thing Remy remembered before Sabertooth smashed his head against the stone floor was the pain of his cock forcing its way into him and the bite of clawed fingers tearing at his ribs.

-----

It would be days before he regained consciousness. . “Merde”, he groaned out hoarsely. He was again in his cell, alone. Thank the gods for that small mercy as he was not in the mood to listen to Sinister rattle on about what punishment Sabertooth had faced or how he could not have his precious experiment overly harmed or worse dead.

If Remy only knew where he was, he might have given great consideration to escape. After all who knew New Orleans, better than, Remy Etienne Lebeau, Master Thief of the Thieves Guild? Jean-Luc Lebeau, that's who. While the X-Men had been content to believe Remy was dead his adopted Father was not. His spies had been ready to move in and pluck him from the ice and bring him home, exile be damned. However Essex had moved faster, too fast for them to rescue Remy, but not fast enough to prevent them from following him. It galled Jean-Luc to know that Essex had set up shop once again in his city, but that would soon change. He would bring his son, even if it was the last thing he did.

Of course an extraction took time to plan. Time that Jean-Luc wished he had to spared and that Remy didn't have to give. Whatever Sinister was up to, he was moving forward with his plans and Remy played a key part in it. The mutant scientist was hell bent on creating the strongest mutants ever and his son was one of the strongest currently living. With his Omega class powers and the combined genetic material that Sinister had collected over the years, thanks to his terrasects, the mad doctor could create mutants of untold power. He needed to be stopped. Any other time he might have called the X-Men for help, but they had already failed Remy once and that was one time to many.

No, it would be the thieves who saved Remy. His men were already moving in on the warehouse, even Belladonna had sent a handful of her assassins. The few she could spare as it would weaken her power base to be seen helping the Assassins sworn enemies, a exiled thief and her brother's murdered. It was helped they could and would accept. The only reason Jean-Luc wasn't along with his men, was Remy's stubbornness. His son would worry more about his position as the Patriarch and less about his own freedom. The Patriarch was not one to not have all bases covered as they said. From the second he found out his home was in the Crescent City, Jean-Luc had laid down the law; Remy was no longer exiled and any who opposed the change were free to challenge him for the seat of the Patriarch. Five duels later and the guild had fallen into line.

“Jean, you done de right thin'. I wan' my Remy home and in our care. Don' fret, de boys will bring him home and we will do as we always have done. Persevere and endure. We canno' erase his pain, but we can ease it.” Tante Marie set a steaming cup of Chicory coffee in front of him. She had helped bring as many children of the guild into this world as she had helped eased the adults out of it. All she loved, but Remy was her favorite. The child of her heart. Marie's anger at Remy's second abandonment had shocked Jean-Luc, but it shouldn't have. After all she's treated the boy as if he were her own flesh and blood, even with the exile she still called the boy, sent him gifts and food. Jean-Luc knew that once Remy was home, he'd have to fight with her for time with his son.

“I know dat, but it don' make me worry less. What if we be too late dis time?” He looked up from his folded hands to stare at his friend and confidant. Raw emotion etched on his face.

“Jean-Luc Lebeau, don' you dare give up on dat boy. Remy is stronger than we all give him credit for. He been through much in his young life and he always come out on top. Dere is no too late. Alive or dead he will come home to rest. And if he be dead, then pity those who left him to dis fate.” Her brown eyes blazed with a dark fire that was rarely if ever seen in them and he knew that Marie was not just speaking of Sinister and Marauders. If his son was dead everyone, including the X-Men would pay. All of them, those that left him behind and those that failed to go back for him.

He took a slow sip of his coffee as Marie sat down with her own. They sat and drank in silence, the only noise coming from the antique grandfather clock in his office. Five minutes until the combined might of the Thieves and the Assassins moved in on Sinister.

Sinister's Lab------------

Remy was just about to drop off into another restless sleep, when the sound of commotion caught his attention. Either Sabertooth had decided he was due his pound of flesh, despite the new rule or the X-Men had discovered the lab. His money was on the first more than the second. Imagine his surprise when the door of his cell was blasted off the hinges. With arms raised against the debris and smoke, Remy squinted and for a second believed he had gone mad. Because only a madman could have dreamed to see the mask of an Assassin guild member standing before him, with the cloned Scalphunter hanging from his blade.

“Quel?” Remy lowered his arms slowly as the Assassin none too gracefully slung the body to the ground.

“He's in here, Thief!”

“Remy? Brother!” Everything was still processing in his mind as Henri came rushing in and dragged him to his feet. Remy stood there in shock as he was hugged tight enough to squeeze the life out of him as his adopted brother babbled on in a mix of french, cajun and English.

“Henri?” Remy was afraid to believe this was real, that Sinister wasn't just fucking with his mind again as a way to pass the time and further break him.

“Oui my brother. Come, we must get ou' of here. Dis place is ready to blow.” Henri shrugged off his trench coat and wrapped it around Remy's shoulders before leading him out of the room. Remy looked around, the lab was in a state of chaos, bodies and smoke were everywhere.

“Assassins and Thieves, ge' your asses out of here, we've got our prize!” Remy finally recognized the voice of the Assassin that had come in before his brother. It was Marcel, Belladonna's cousin.

“Now dis thief know he be dreamin'. Thieves and Assassins working together to save his sorry ass? Dat will be da day.” Remy tried to pull away from Henri as his brother led him down the back corridor.

“Its no dream, Remy. Your ex-wife lend us sorry thieves a hand in getting you out. Pere almost told her non, but she insisted. Said she owed you this much after what happened.”

As they made their way out, the sound of other footsteps filled the air as the others rushed out behind them, covering their backs as they hit the stairwell. This just couldn't be happening. His father wasn't about to risk his position to save his son any more than Belladonna was going to risk hers by helping.

Henri suddenly let out a soft chuckle as he shook his head as if he could read Remy's thoughts. “Stop worryin' 'bout de old man. He knew you would thin' just what you are thinkin' now, which is the only reason he's not here dragging you out himself. It may have took some time, Rem, but your family, your real family has come for you.”

The damp night air caressed Remy's face as they made their way out the back door. The smell of the city and the bayou filled his nose as he took his first free breath in gods know how long. Without his empathic powers though it was impossible to tell for sure if this was all real, it felt real, smelled real.

“Louis, blow it!” Henri called out as the last thief made it out of the warehouse. Remy turned at the sound of the first explosion, red on black eyes watched as several more had the building collapsing down upon itself. He turned away as Marcel came to stand in front of them, moss green eyes staring out from his mask.

“D'accord, for your help Marcel,” Henri spoke with a nod.

“We did not do dis for you, thief. Belladonna speaks and we follow.”

“None de less, you have the thanks of the Thieves Guild. Not bad for Assassins.”

There was a shadow of a smirk underneath the mask, “And not bad for swamp rat Thieves either. We've been ordered t' cover your retreat, so take your brother home, before any of des things, decide to come crawling out of the rubble.”

“Understood. Good hunting.” Henri clapped Remy on the shoulder, “Let's go home brother.”

“Marcel, tell Belle tha..” Remy was cut off with a raised hand as the assassin shook his head.

“My cousin said, you alive was thanks enough. She may not be able to show it, but she cares. Farewell thieves.” Marcel turned and went to join the other four assassins. It was then that Remy really took notice of just how many had come for him. Including Henri, his father had sent eleven other thieves. So many, just for him. He didn't even notice he was crying until Henri was pulling him into his arms again.

“Save the tears for Tante Marie, brother. What Master Thief weeps like a bebe over a tiny rescue party?”

Remy was remotely aware of being led into first one car and then another as they made their way back to his father's home. Henri stayed at his side reassuring him that this was not some sick twisted game. He was silent however, if this was one of Sinister's tricks he wasn't about to give the bastard more ammo to use against him. The need to sleep caught up with him twenty minutes from home and Remy slept and Henri let him. When they reached their destination he didn't bother to wake his brother. Instead he carried him out of the Lincoln and into the house.

As expected Jean-Luc practically stormed out of his office to greet them, Tante Marie right as his heels.

“Oh Mon filis” Jean-Luc ran a shaking hand over Remy's face. “I'll make dem pay my son. All of dem.” Looking to Henri he touched his blood son's face and nodded. “Tante's got his room ready and de doctor is on his way. Let's get him to bed and dat damned collar off him.” Henri just nodded and with his father's help got Remy up the stairs and into his room. Neither said anything as they took note of every scar, every bruise, every mark. Remy was at least fifty pounds lighter than he should have been. The once soft, but angled planes of his face now stood out in gaunt stark contrast.

Jean-Luc carefully picked the lock on the collar and slipped it from around his neck. The skin beneath was raw and red. He knew he was taking a risk with removing the collar, but he could not stand to see it upon Remy for a second longer.

A few minute later Dr. Gauthier arrived and set to work. While Remy was already asleep, the doctor gave him a very mild sedative as well. The last thing any of them wanted or needed was for Remy to wake up right now. He had a valid reason to fear doctor's, but for right now this was for the best. He cleaned the needle tracks as well as drew blood. Used to doing more than a few surgeries in less than ideal situations, Gauthier slowly removed the embedded iv port. “The man may be an insane monster, but he is talented.”

“What do you mean, Christopher?” Jean-Luc asked.

“Had anyone else tried this,” he held up the iv port, “Remy or anyone else's body would have rejected the implant. From the looks of things, its been inserted for a good amount of time, but there is no sign of inflammation, infection, nothing.” Tossing the port into the pile of bloodied gauze he stitched Remy's hand back up.

“It will take awhile to see if he was given anything we should be of concern about, but he appears otherwise fine. He needs to eat though. Let him eat as he wishes, but don't let Marie stuff him to the brim. Remy should wake up in the morning as normal. I'll be in touch.”

Jean-Luc nodded and shook his hand, “Thank you.”

“I'll show him out Pere,” even though Henri ached to stay by his brother's side until he woke again, he knew his father needed the time with him.

X Mansion-----

Storm glided down the mansion stairs, a delicate silk scarf draped around her head and neck, and headed for the kitchen. Her secret admirer had been rather busy showering her with gifts and short simple notes. In addition to the scarf and flowers she had also received a small bottle of scented oil, from Egypt. She had spent days trying to figure out who it was. Obviously it was someone within the mansion, but who?

Pushing open the door she was surprised to find Logan sitting at the table eating. “Good afternoon Logan,” she smiled and made her way over to him.

“'Ro.” He gave her a short nod as he reached for his usual beer. His presence inside the mansion was an improvement, even if it was a small one. Not that she really blamed him, Remy's room was next to his, which meant having to go past it on a regular basis. The empty room a constant reminder of what he had missed out on.

“Will you be joining us for dinner?” She laid her small hand over his much larger one. While she knew what his answer would be already, Ororo had to take the chance in asking. Both Warren and Rouge were safer if he wasn't there. The two had taken to voicing their disdain out of earshot of either of them, but that didn't stop their feelings from bleeding into their eyes or everything else they said and did.

“Nope. Going to Harry's tonight. Besides shouldn't you be trying to figure out who's got the hots for you, rather than worrying about me?” He gave her a pointed look as he picked up one corner of her scarf for emphasis to his own question.

Ororo flushed slightly, “I assure you Logan, that its been occupying most of my time.” An idea suddenly came to her, “Logan could you possibly, give me a hint?”

“I could, but I won't.” Logan grinned at her and took another sip of his beer while the windrider pouted. He knew damn well the waiting and wondering was driving her mad. Just like he knew who her secret admirer was. Even without Kurt's own personal scent and the very faint telltale smell of sulfur he knew. The way the Elf watched Storm was hint enough that it was him that had been leaving her the small tokens of his affection. “Its not my place and there is the fact that I am fairly certain you will know soon enough who it is.”

Logan had overheard Kurt making dinner reservations for the pair on Sunday for today. The Elf had spunk, he gave him credit for that. He actually wondered if Ororo would recognize Kurt with an image inducer on. Finishing his beer and grabbing his now empty plate he winked at her. “Trust me.”

If not for the fact she knew Logan was in love with Remy, Ororo might have assumed it was Logan who had been leaving her gifts, he had been attracted to Jean after all. That crush had died a quick and fiery death however the day she brought her brother home. “Thank you Logan. I know its not really your thing, but if you ever want to talk.”

“I know 'Ro.” He gave her another low nod and then headed out the door and headed back for the boathouse.

Watching him leave with a soft sigh, Ororo rose and made herself a cup of coffee. As she took her first sip she could hear the doorbell ring.

“I've got it!” Jean called out from the foyer. Opening the door Jean smiled seeing the massive bouquet of flowers. Tiger lilies and Orchids with hyacinths and baby's breath dominated the vase. “Storm I think this is for you,” she called out. The telepath barely held back her laughter as Storm practically came running out of the kitchen.

“Goddess they're beautiful. Who are they from?”

The delivery man looked around from the cloud of flowers, “Don't know ma'am, but there is a card.” He held out the clipboard for her to sign which she did. When she started to reach for her pocket the man shook his head, “No need, the tip has already been taken care of. Enjoy the flowers.”

“Thank you.” Storm took the vase while Jean closed the door. The two of them grinned at each other before walking over to the nearest table. Storm carefully picked through the flowers looking for the card.

“Well whomever your secret admirer is, they certainly have taste.” Jean sniffed one of the Tiger Lilies. “I wish Scott would randomly send me gifts.”

Storm laughed softly as she pulled the card out and opened the envelope, “I am sure your husband will surprise you soon enough. Can't have him being shown up after all.” Pulling the tiny card out she read the short message, “Dinner tonight. Caroline's. 8 o'clock.”

“Caroline's? That's one of the best restaurants in town.” And also one of the most expensive. “Wow, Storm you've really got some lucky guy going for the gold to impress you.”

“Yes. Yes they are. Oh goddess I have nothing to wear.” Storm said softly as she held the card to her chest.

“Then I suggest a shopping trip is in order. Grab your purse and I'll go get the keys to the car.” Storm nodded and the two headed off their tasks.

Caroline's------

Ororo sighed softly as she pulled up to the valet outside of Caroline's. She checked her hair and make up one last time before stepping out of the car and handing over her keys. Jean had helped her pick out a lovely garnet strapless dress that hugged her curves at the store. The silk scarf she'd gotten earlier was draped across her her neck as well. Taking a deep breath Ororo walked into the restaurant and over to the host stand when she didn't see anyone in the waiting area. The maître d' beamed at her as walked forward.

“Ms. Munroe? Your part is waiting,” grabbing a menu he turned and led towards the VIP area of the restaurant. The man sitting at the table was tall with fair skin and hair so black it was almost blue. Looking up he saw them coming and got to his feet. Ororo for the life of her couldn't place his face.

“Surprised to see me like this, leibling?” Slipping from between the table and chair, Kurt took her hand and raised it to his lips. “I am glad you accepted mein invitation.”

It took a second for Ororo's brain to catch up to what she was seeing. Kurt was wearing an image inducer. She blushed slightly as he kissed her hand and then escorted her to her seat. “It certainly was a surprise. A pleasant one at that.”

Once they were seated and left with menus and water, Ororo took the time to look at this human version of her teammate. Obvious changes aside, his face was still familiar. Eventually Ororo realized she was staring, blushed and looked away.

“Its ok, Ororo. It took me some time to get used to this version of me as well.” Kurt laid his hand over hers. “As much as we have all been taught to be proud of who we are, it is nice to be out for once without people calling me a demon.”

“Oh Kurt you are far from that,” she smiled at him. “I'm actually glad Logan did not let me know it was you.”

“Really? The great Wolverine could not be bribed by your beautiful face to share mien secret?”

Ororo shook her head slowly, “No he was quite clear he wasn't going to let the cat out of the bag. Not that I tried all that hard to convince him.” She had enjoyed the build up actually. All of Kurt's gifts showed he had put much thought into all of them. They weren't simple tokens of affection, but well thought out to her own tastes and likes.

“Vell that is good. I would have hated to drop him in the lake for ruining the surprise.” They both laughed at that. Both were lost in each other so much that they both jumped lightly as the soft clearing of throat from their waiter. After settling on the night's special and a bottle of wine, the pair relaxed back into their soft conversation.

“I'm ashamed to say that I was afraid to actually go through with this,” Kurt took a long sip of his water.

“What do you mean Kurt?”

“Ororo your beauty stills the breath in mien heart. I did not think for a long time that you would be interested in me. If not for Remy, I might not have ever summoned the courage to act.”

“What did my brother have to do with this?” Now her curiosity was stirred. Had Remy known of Kurt's feelings?

“Gambit had someone figured out that I had eye only for you, liebling. He told me that I shouldn't be afraid to take the chance at having your love. And he vas right. I only vish he vas here for me to thank him for how you say kicking me in the butt.”

Ororo didn't say what was on her mind at the moment, that her brother should have taken his own to heart. Had she known before the Trial, of Logan's own feelings she might have pushed the cajun harder into action. Of course she was part of the reason, why Remy would now never have that chance and why another friend, her brother in nature was slowly dying inside.

“Kurt, how you even want to still be with me after...” the words stuck in her throat.

“After the trial?” He took her hand and squeezed it, “Ororo I am a man of faith and I believe in forgiveness for all things. If I had not seen for myself your own regret at vhat happened, I might have changed my mind. You acted out of shock and grief. Ve may be mutants, but Ve are still human and full of faults. Answer me this. If given the chance vould you make amends with Gambit? You would ask his forgiveness, ja?”

“In a heartbeat.”

“Then,” he brought her hand to his lips and kissed it again, “you are worthy of all the feelings I have for you.” Kurt rose from his seat enough to wipe the tears from her eyes, before her makeup was ruined.

“Thank you Kurt.” She gave him another dazzling smile.

The pair continued to talk, throughout their date. Kurt made her laugh when explaining the work it had taken to get the orchids he had first given her. “It vas no small feat, getting from New York to Africa and back vithout having those flowers damaged.” She nodded, knowing as Kurt had explained years ago that the space he traveled through wasn't the most hospitable, even though he didn't not spend overly long in the hell dimension.

After dinner the pair drove to the park. Privacy was always in short order at the mansion, so they decided to take advantage of the empty park. Kurt and Ororo walked hand in hand slowly, enjoying each other's company more than really talking. Eventually they came to the fountain at the center of the park and sat down on the stone rim. “This has been wonderful Kurt, thank you.”

“No, thank you, Ororo. You are the one who has made the night vonderful,” Kurt reached up to stroke her dark cheek gently. It thrilled him to be able to touch her like this, it had been his deepest desire, other than to see her genuinely smile again.

Ororo laid her hand over his and nuzzled his palm before leaning in to kiss him. Both were seemingly shy at first before giving into their budding desire. While not graphic it was by no means a chaste kiss and when they pulled back to breath, both were breathing a bit more heavily. The two kissed several more times, watching the stars above them now and then before they headed back to the mansion. Kurt walked her to her room like a proper gentleman and kissed her hand.

“Danke once again for such a lovely evening, Ororo. Hopefully it vill not be the last?” Kurt was fairly certain that she returned his affection, but still the demon spawned mutant felt the need to ask.

“I would like that very much Kurt. Very much indeed.” Ororo dropped a kiss on his cheek before opening her door. “Goodnight Kurt.”

“Gute Nacht, Ororo.“ He waited til she closed the door before teleporting to his room. Once there Kurt let out a mute shout and fist pumped the air. He turned the imager off and smiled at himself in the mirror. While that version of him had been out with her in public, Kurt knew that Ororo knew the real him. Tail and all. Life was good.

Well for them at least. Through his window he could see the faint glow of a lit cigar down in the garden. “Merciful father, ease your son's suffering. He has not alvays been a good man, but he is one now and does not deserve this agony.“ Kurt knew Logan would scoff at his prayer, but Kurt still had his faith. That faith gave him the strength to believe things would work out as they were meant to.

-----------------The Lake

Logan inhaled on his cigar and watch the smoke float silently on the night air. He'd head Kurt and Storm return from their date. He was happy for the blue elf and the weather witch, even if part of him, mostly the feral part was jealous. Those two had found each other and the one he wanted, his mate was forever out of his reach. One of the downsides of being able to live potentially forever was centuries of hindsight. Every fiber in his being screamed out for the man he could not have and berated him for not moving sooner. Not that it would have changed anything.

He still wouldn't have been there when Remy had been left behind to die. No Logan would have simply gone feral at the news that his love, his mate was dead and left to the snow. Rouge would not have been able to find a place on this planet or any other to hide from his wrath. It would have been a wrath of biblical preportions and nothing and no one would have been able to stop him. Not even the mighty Charles Xavier.

Turning his head he looked at his bike with its packed saddle bags parked outside of the lakehouse. With each passing day the urge to leave this place and the others behind grew. At the same time Logan felt unexplainibly rooted to this place. As if something were willing to stay for some reason. Crushing the cigar out under his boots, the feral headed inside. There was beer to be had and sleep to avoid.

New Orleans-----------------

“Non! They left you to de cold and ice mon filis. You brother and I can go fetch your things.” Jean-Luc slammed a stack of papers onto his desk. Remy had slowly started to come back to himself over the weeks of his recovery. The weight was back, but his eyes lacked their usual fire. His son was draped in one of his large wingback chairs. His hair was still long, only trimmed to make it neat.

“Pere, I'm not a bebe. I did not say I was going back to stay. I simply want to get my things and be done with dem.” Assuming they hadn't already gotten rid of his things. The idea of his bed and bike being sold or trashed made his heart ache, lightly. “I have to do this. I am not a coward. Those conards can kiss my ass. I want dem to know that Remy is alive and well and that diis thief will never forget dat they left one of their own.” This time when he looked at his father there was heat and weight to his gaze. Jean-Luc knew that look, it was the same look Remy had given him when his charging ability first manifested. The look that said I will not let this control me or beat me down.

“Fine, but I will go with you. You are not the only one who wishes to have words with dem. Especially your Professor Xavier. Dis Scott Summers may be de team leader, but Xavier is in charge overall.”

Remy nodded and slid out of the chair and to his feet. “Thank-you Pere.” He was nervous about going back. Facing Storm again was not something he really wanted to do, she who he blamed less for her reaction, but her abandonment cut the deepest.

Westchester-------

Wolverine sat with his feet propped up on the security console as he watched the main gate. It had been pretty quiet lately. No attacks, no missions. Nothing. Well except for Ororo and Kurt acting like lovestruck teenagers all over the place. He was happy for them, mildly jealous, but still happy.

Guard duty was always a bit of bore, but now even more so without the Cajun either popping in with beer and cards or running about the grounds, testing their security defenses. Now he didn't even have that to pass the time with. Logan was about to open a beer when a car and a moving truck pulled up to the gate.

“The hell?” No one had said anything about anyone moving in. Sitting up Logan hit the intercom button, “Yeah?” Scott would tear his shorts to hear him, not using the proper greetings for guests.

“I have Mousier Jean-Luc Lebeau here to collect his son's things.” If Logan's blood could run cold, it would have at that moment. Part of him wondered what had taken the man so long, but as a father himself, he was sure it had likely taken him this long to be able to come face to face with all of them without committing murder. After all it was them who left his son's dead body to the elements.

“Come one in.” Logan hit the gate button and rocketed out of his seat. He almost knocked Scott over in his rush.

“Watch it Logan. What's the damn rush?”

“Gambit's father is here to collect his stuff.” He didn't stick around to see the look on Scott's face as he headed for the front door.

~Jean. Professor. Jean-Luc Lebeau is here. He's come to get Gambit's things.~

~And likely to lecture us as well.~ Xavier replied. ~We shall meet you downstairs, Scott.~ Xavier and Jean looked at each other, both glad that Warren and Rogue were not around. Their presence would make a hard conversation even harder.

Logan sprinted to the door and yanked it open just as Jean-Luc was getting out of the car. While he knew Remy was adopted it was obvious were that air of grace and earned arrogance had come from. Jean-Luc also had a commanding presence about it. He radiated power and demanded respect. This was a man not to be trifled with and the others had left his son behind. The X-Men were lucky Jean-Luc hadn't rained hell down upon their heads.

“Mr. Lebeau. I wanted to apologize for what happened with Rem...Gambit.” He watched the older man size him up.

“There are not enough apologies for what you bastards did to my son! You left him to DIE!!”

Logan let out a low growl, his hands half curled, “Listen bub, I didn't leave your son to die. I would have NEVER left Remy to die. I know better than anyone here what its liked to be lied to and used. Leaving him like that would never have happened if I was there. I wasn't here. When I got back it was too late to go back, but I did. I searched for days to find any sign of him. Even if he was dead, I would have brought him home.”

Jean-Luc let his anger get ahead of him with his next words, “And I am suppose' to believe de likes of you? From what I know of you Wolverine, you are no better than an animal on good days. Animals don't look after the weak and dying. Dey either kill it or leave it behind.”

Logan had taken a step towards Jean-Luc and was about to say something when a second body stepped out of the car. “Pere, stop dat. Wolvie be one of the only ones who actually cared about dis homme enough to call him friend.” Remy gave Logn a cockey grin. “What's wrong homme? Seen a ghost?”

“Gambit?” This was from Jean as she stood in the doorway with Scott and the Professor.

“ 'Allo Jeanie, lookin' good for a dead man, non?” Logan was still staring at him with eyes the size of dinner plates. The feral had been the reason for him jumping out of the car and to his defense. He had spoken the truth and the grief and resentment falling off the man in waves had made him speak up. Logan wouldn't have left him behind. And now that they were face to face there was more emotion in the man, but the shock of the others was overwhelming that. He raised his shields more and turned his gaze back to Xavier and the others. “Don' worry. Gambit be here only to get his things. Dis dog won't be around for you to kick any more.”

“I suggest we bring this inside where we can talk peaceably,” Xavier said as he wheeled himself back. He'd failed Gambit more than anyone, and apparently his other students as well if they could do something such as this. The school was supposed to be a safe haven for all mutants. Even those with checkered pasts.

“As my son said, Professor, we will not be here long,” Jean-Luc leveled his gaze at the man he had trusted to look out for his son. They all headed inside, the movers waiting at the truck, none the less.

Word as it always did had spread fast, as Bobby, Jubilee, Ororo and Kurt were all in the foyer and hallway. From Kurt and Jubilee there came joy and amazement that he was alive. From Ororo, regret and shame and from Bobby...nothing. The young man had locked down his feelings about seeing Remy alive, good or bad.

“Remy!” Jubilee couldn't stop herself from throwing herself into his arms or the sobs that came pouring from her. “Oh god I am so sorry. I would have kicked everyone's butts if I could for you.” It soon downgraded into all out bawling.

“Sshh petite, its ok. Gambit come out of it ok. See I've even got all my fingers and toes.” he hugged her tightly and stroked her short hair as the girl slowly calmed down. If his father was shocked, it didn't show on his face as they all watched Jubilee slowly pull herself back together.

“Oh god I got snot and tears all over your shirt.” Her eyes were red and puffy, not just from this round of tears either. She had genuinely missed him.

“Its just a shirt and you know Gambit. He always got plenty more where dat came from.” She gave him a soft smile and another tight squeeze before slipping past him to go to her own adoptive father's side. Just like Bobby, Logan had also locked himself down. Not that he was an easy read on a good day.

Ororo had her head bent to listen to whatever Kurt was whispering to her. From their clasped hands he figured Kurt had finally made his move and he was happy for them. When she lifted her head there were tears on her cheeks. Both three fingered hands came up to wipe them away. “Go liebling. You need to do this, ja.”

She nodded and wiped at her face again before turning and walking to him. “Storm,” he greeted her flatly. Remy wiped all emotion of his face as their eyes met. Not Stormy, not RoRo, just Storm.

“I deserve that and more from you brother. I can never make up for the things I said and did. None of us can, but I swear to you Remy, brother that I am sorry. So sorry that I let my shock and my anger blind me to everything I knew, no, know about the type of man you are. If you cannot forgive me I will understand as I cannot even forgive myself.” Her hands were curled at her sides, it was obvious she had wanted to do as Jubilee had and hold him, reassure herself that he was really there before them.

Remy wanted to throw her apology back her in her face. To yell at her and shake her. To demand her to tell him him why and how she left him like that. To a slow and icy death. When he didn't answer her right away, Storm just bowed her head and started to return to Kurt's side. His hand moved without him knowing it and pulled her into his arms.

“I forgive you Stormy. We just human non? We all do stupid things in our lives.” Her body shuddered in his arms as her arms came up to wrap around him. He could feel her fighting the next round of tears, but she held strong. They stayed there, just holding one another until Kurt came over and cleared his throat. “What's wrong homme, 'fraid Remy gonna steal your cher?”

“Not a all mien fruend, I just wanted to say that I am glad you are alive and to of course thank you. If you had not said vat you did I might never have approached her.” He smiled and the two shook hands.

“Take care of de cher oui? Remy not gonna be around to save her from her gardening, so its your job now.”

“WHAT?! You're not coming back?”

“Jubilee,” Logan laid his hand on the girl's shoulder and she shrugged it off.

“No Logan. I may be a kid, but I'm still a member of this team. Remy you can't leave.” She stormed over to him. “I won't let you.”

“Petite, you know Remy cares, but I don' trust de X-Men no more. De nevah really made him feel welcome and be cramping his style. Need to be someplace my talents are appreciated.”

Jubilee's hand struck out faster than anyone could blink. The hand print stood out on his pale skin. “Jubilee!” “Jubes!”

“You lied to me. You said that you'd always be there when I needed you. When Logan was gone you'd play stand in for him. How the fuck are you supposed to do that all the way in goddamn New Orleans?! It was one thing when I thought you were dead, but now you are choosing to walk away from me. From us.”

“Jubilee, that's enough,” Scott said in an authoritative tone walking forward.

“Shut up Scott. This is all your damn fault in the first place. What kind of leader leaves a man behind? You haven't given a damn what his 'death'”, she made air quotes, “did to us. To me. To Logan. All you've cared about is keeping him from killing Warren and Rogue. About covering up your mistakes as a leader. Fuck you Fearless.”

“Jubilee, calm down,” Logan stepped up and tried to pull her back, but she just shook his hands off again.

“No Logan, I am not going to stand here and watch him walk out of our lives again. You can do it, but I won't.” Jubilee ran up the stairs, taking them two at a time until she was out of sight. The sound of a door slamming was the only sign that she hadn't left the mansion. Bobby went up after her, without a word.

The group stood around, looking at one another, unsure of what to say after that. Jubilee had said what was on the minds of the majority of them.

“Uh Gambit if I may,” Charles rolled forward slowly, “While she may have voiced her opinion and feelings in a way that I wouldn't have, I have to say I do share her mind in this. I know the others feel the same way. Mistakes were made, but you cannot simply walk away from us.”

“He can and he will Monsieur Xavier. After all it was you, your children who walked away from his first. You left him for a fate worse than death at the hands of de man you all believed he willin' worked for.”

“Pere!” Remy shot a look that if he had Cyclops' powers would have left his father as nothing more than a smoking pile of ash and bone.

“Non. They need to know what they did. As soon as you all were gone Sinister swooped in an’ took him. It took months to finally track him and his laboratory to New Orleans and its taken weeks to get my son back to somewhat his former self.” Jean-Luc looked at all of them, “I don't care if you thought he was dead. You had no right, NO RIGHT to leave him for that monster to find.”

Even Scott had the good sense to look ashamed. They all did. Well everyone except Logan. All of that buried and current anger game to a head and one set of claws buried themselves into a wall. Shaking his head as he pulled his claws out and look at Charles he simply said, “Let him go Chuck. Just let him go.” Reeking of despair Logan stalked out of the mansion. Again his emotions confused Remy. Why would the Wolverine need to feel despair at the idea of him not returning to him. part of him ached to go running after the shorter man. To ask for answers to questions even he didn’t understand. Truth was walking away would be harder having to face Logan at the same time. He didn’t think however what he felt was enough to keep him amongst people he no longer trusted.

A hand on his shoulder made him turn, Kurt was standing there, Ororo of course at this side, “Remy, let me give you some advice that a wise ass once gave me, ‘Love is a cruel mistress, but better to embrace the flame than to loose on on the chance of love, no?’”

“Remy even if you still choose to walk away from the X-men don’t walk away from Logan.” Ororo didn’t say anything else, but that seemed to be enough. With a slight nod he walked back over to where his father was still engaged in a heated argument with Prof. Xavier. “Pere, there are some other things, I need to take care of here, before we leave. A few more days, won’t hurt anythin’.”

Jean-Luc gave his son a long measured look, “Are you sure mon filis?”

“Non, but I need to do this. I need to be sure that when I go nothin’ is left undone.”

“Fine. I will send the men to find a hotel, for I have no intention of letting you stay here, unguarded.” Neither Scott nor the Professor moved to correct him, to say that his son would be safe with them.

With a slight nod Xavier turned to Scott, “Is Wolverine still staying in the guesthouse?”

“No he’s finally moved back into the Mansion,” Scott replied.

“Then, Remy, Mr. Lebeau, you are both welcome to the guesthouse on the dock.”

“Pere, you know how to find it. Remy needs to go have some fresh air and talk wit someone.” Jean-Luc reached out to stroke the side of his son’s face before the younger thief turned and headed off in the same direction, the Wolverine had left. Curious.

“What did he mean by you know how to find it?” Scott asked, unsure if he really wanted to know the answer.

“I’m de Patriarch of the Thieves Guild. Do you really believe, boy that I would let my son stay someplace I didn’t know inside and out?” Even the humor in his voice held an edge to it. Without another word Jean-Luc turned on his heel and went out the front door to give instructions to his men.

Ororo and Kurt excused themselves to their suite, leaving Jean, Scott and Xavier alone to digest all that had just happened.

“Professor, do you think Gambit will really leave?” Jean asked, taking her husband’s hand.

“That Jean, I do not know. I do know that if he does, it won’t be because of anything we do or say. His father was very right, both in his anger and what he had to say. No I think if he stays, it will be because he found the right reason to stay.”
- 1
- 2
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Hearts' Desires