Archive of Our Own

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Life never really has changed in his life, Hank could easily admit.
 
He didn’t hate his life nor would he really change everything about it, but seemingly it remained the same. It didn’t seem like it was going anywhere although he basically had it all. His intelligence took him farther than making a serum that he was previously going to use to stop his mutation but it only made his genes enhance it. Hank’s intellect got him quite far in life, even with his mutation.
 
Hank hadn't always been blue. Once upon a time, he could easily blend in with people. Before he had tried to remove the appearance of his hand-like feet, Hank couldn't be thought of anything else besides a regular man. He never accepted himself because of the mutation he was born with and he made it worse when he injected himself with that serum. It only made him accept his mutation less.
 
Time had passed and Hank had learned to get over his self-conscious emotions towards his hand-like feet and his blue beast form. When he looked back on the past he couldn't help but feel so foolish. He had tried to suppress his own mutation and he couldn't take it any longer. Hank decided to accept himself and no longer use the second serum he had created.
 
There was one person he could thank for helping him out with the situation of accepting himself. Charles Xavier had been a great friend of his for years now. He had been only a teenager, already graduated from Harvard and was working for the CIA, when he had met the professor. The memory was so vivid and burned into Hank's brain. After being recruited by Charles, Hank had strived to work on a cure for his hand-like feet. Injecting the serum he had invented created his blue beast form.
 
He was grateful for Charles. It had been a few months since he had last dropped by to visit the Xavier mansion. He knew Charles was living a great life. After defeating Shaw, Erik and he had begun a happy life together in the mansion. Later on they would have their own children who would be as powerful as the both of them. The mansion would become a school for mutants. Life would be perfect. They would live fine lives.
 
Hank was living a fine life too. He worked as the Secretary of Mutant Affairs. He lived in his own two-story house which was nice and stylish, in his opinion. Hank had adopted a white Persian cat he named Ophelia, after his favorite character of Shakespeare's Hamlet. Hank had been delighted to have another living thing with him rather than his little bonsai tree that sat in the kitchen on the counter right near the window.
 
It was a rainy day today and Hank had watched the news before heading off to work earlier. Although the newscaster said there was a less chance of rain, Hank assumed that was not the case when he exited his home to see the light gray skies. He took his raincoat and an umbrella just in case the newscaster was incorrect about their weather calculations.
 
As he had hypothesized, the gray skies meant today would be a day of pouring raindrops.
 
Hank wasn't the type to socialize after work, so he was always heading home after work. He wasn't the party type unlike some of his colleagues who would prefer to go get a drink someplace dark and reeking of whiskey all night while his preference was staying home with his cat while reading a book.
 
Today would be a day like any other, Hank knew by heart. He would head inside and make sure all doors and windows were locked so no water could dampen anywhere in his home. He would probably make a nice cup of tea, continue with his newest book on physics and have Ophelia sitting on his lap as she snoozed as the rain pitter-pattered outside of the house.
 
As he was driving, Hank considered why he still felt lonely when he had Ophelia. She had been quite obedient since he had gotten her as a kitten. Ophelia wasn't much of a trouble maker at all and for that Hank was thankful. It helped out with his daily routine to have a well-trained companion to come home to.
 
Hank never questioned his calculations since he knew he was undoubtedly correct all the time. At this moment he couldn't help but think he was imagining it. His glasses were on so he could see perfectly fine. Hank parked on the side of the road. He was still near the city so it'd be a while since his house was in a nice forested area which gave him peace.
 
Hank's eyes landed on what was in the alleyway. There was a long alleyway, he could tell, between an antique shop and a smoke shop. There were visible large trash bins and scraps of trash lying all over the ground of the alleyway, but it hadn't been trash and bins that had caught his eyes. 
 
There was someone huddled near the left side of the alleyway. Hank didn't think he would be able to stop the person since he happened to be a little farther and there was at least a metal trash bin in front of him. Hank kept his eyes on the person. He tried looking more at the person without having to actually exit his car and stand in front of the person.
 
Hank couldn't tell if it was a man or a woman since the person had their knees up to their chest. The person had his or her arms around their legs while their head was in their legs with the hood covering their head. The jacket the person was wearing was either a black or dark blue and it covered anything he or she was wearing underneath. Hank spotted two straps on each of the person's chest which meant it was a backpack.
 
He was aware that there were many homeless people in the world, there were many in New York. Hank was also aware that people who held up signs for money could just be people who didn't want to work. It was obvious this situation wasn't like this. There was no money sign. Besides, he felt like this person didn't want to be bothered.
 
Hank wondered why this person wasn't at a shelter for the homeless. He knew there were many. With his connections he could probably help this person for a spot in one of those shelters. Hank believed in helping people. If it meant he could help this person then he would gladly do so.
 
Years after accepting his own difference from the world made him appreciate things more. He was a successful man and he had intelligence that people could rely on. 
 
He opened his door and grabbed his umbrella. He didn't want this person to get any wetter than they already were. Hank opened up the umbrella and closed his door, locking it and keeping his keys in his pocket. He made his way over to the alleyway while trying not to slip (he wouldn't want to idiotic by running on slippery ground.) 
 
Once he was standing in front of the hooded person, Hank felt a bit nervous. He knew the person would probably be confused as to why there was some blue, furry guy staring down at him in this weather. Hank cleared his throat and allowed the words to come out of his mouth. 
 
“Hello.” Hank greeted him or she while he kept his eyes glued to the hooded person. No response. “I...uh, noticed you’re getting pretty wet...I was hoping maybe I could help you out.”
 
Still, he gained no response.
 
Hank believed everything took their time to open up to complete strangers. Maybe this person didn't trust random people who just came up to him or her?
 
This time, Hank inputted his concern. “Please, I would hate for you to get sick. It's pouring and you're better off not outside getting dampened.” 
 
“Don't worry about it.” He was proud to have finally received a reply.  
 
Hank's question on whether this person was a female or male had been answered. It was a homeless male. From hearing the male's voice, Hank estimated this male couldn't be near his late twenties. The youngest he'd guess was perhaps twenty. He would hope someone younger wouldn't be in this situation. 
 
He was interested in how this man didn't want any help at all. If Hank was making assumptions, he would assume perhaps the man wanted to be all alone in the rain. 
 
Hank couldn't have that though. 
 
“You really shouldn't be out here,” Hank tried as he thought of a way to convince the man. “It's going to keep raining and you're going to be freezing.”
 
Hank's eyes met the pretty blue ones the man owned. He had never looked upon such pretty eyes before. The most he had ever been fascinated were Ophelia's eyes (cats had intriguing eyes, Hank came to realize.) Hank stopped looking at this man's eyes and began examining everything else.
 
The man was indeed an attractive one. Hank could see blonde hair from underneath the hood. Hank has always thought blue eyes and blonde hair was always attractive. Those eyes kept him captivated. He had no free time to just stare into this male's eyes since there were more concerning things at the moment to think about. 
 
Hank extended his free hand to the man to help him up. “I can help you, sir.” He felt unhelpful due to the amount of responses he gained from the younger man. “There are some shelters. I bet we can find you a spot.”
 
The young man's expression contorted to anger. “Leave me alone! I don't need anyone's help.” He looked away from Hank. 
 
This was a different situation Hank was stuck in. He couldn't just "leave him alone." Hank wasn't going to let this young man stay any longer in the rain. Hank would think others would have accepted his help (everything he knew always did), but there was a first for everything. Unfortunately there was a first for someone who didn't want to be helped. 
 
Hank refused to leave this young man all alone in the rain. 
 
“Please,” Hank began as he got closer and moved his hand away. He sighed, refusing to be defeated. “I can't let you soak in the rain.”
 
The young man rose from the ground and crossed his arms. “I said I am fine. I don't need anyone's help.” 
 
He's quite the stubborn type, Hank said as he noticed the young man was about an inch or two shorter than him.
 
He didn't care how stubborn the young man in front of him was. Hank knew no one wanted to stay outside in the rain. There was something more to this young man than he was leading on. Hank was curious about it. He wasn't going to pry, but he wasn't going to let him stay in this cold weather. 
 
No one should be stuck in this weather. 
 
“Look…” Hank was trying to figure out a way to get this young man out of this weather. An idea popped into his head. “Come with me.”
 
The young man observed him with narrowed eyes suspiciously. “What do you mean?” 
 
“...I'm inviting you to come home with me.” Hank thought about how bad or good this idea was. Ophelia and he would be fine. It's not like this man was a serial killer or anything. 
 
This new idea didn't influence the young man. He still looked guarded and hesitant. He took a step forward and had his body turned a bit. Hank decided to study the man's body language as he waited for a response. 
 
He looked well-guarded, but it was different in a way of how he guarded himself. Just by how he crossed his arms or wrapped his arms around himself, Hank could tell he was trying to protect himself in a way. This discovery made Hank question what kind of a person this man was.
 
Was he afraid of Hank? Did he think that Hank was some creature that was going to kill him? Those thoughts made Hank feel like he had in the beginning when gaining his beast form. He didn't want to judge and he was already beginning to do it when he knew absolutely nothing about this attractive male in front of him.

Don't judge him

, Hank told himself as he clutched to the umbrella even tighter,

you could be wrong about him

.
 
“What?”
 
Hank didn't think about the likelihood of the young man becoming confused. He just didn't want this man to stand the rain any longer. 
 
“You refuse to go into a shelter. Plus, it's just my cat, Ophelia and I.” Hank put on a friendly smile as he explained to the blonde haired man. He sighed, “and...I really don't want you staying out here during a pour like this.” 
 
Although the young man had continued refusing, Hank saw something in his eyes. It looked as if he was hesitant to refuse once more. As if something was telling him to keep refusing and another part trying to convince him to accept the help being offered. 
 
To Hank, it was hope.
 
He didn't know anything about the attractive blonde in front of him. He knew absolutely nothing. Even though this blonde was a stranger, Hank couldn't find it in him to leave him here. He was tempted to drag the man with him if he refused again.

You're starting to sound like a creep

, Hank told himself as he realized if anyone heard that they should be afraid of him.
 
“I...I-” Hank was feeling another protest would be heard. He couldn't have more of it. 
 
Hank kept his smile on his face. “At least stay one night? Get out of this weather. I'm not asking forever, but just...I don't know. You can leave when the rain is gone or not.” He attempted. 
 
He was begging now. Hank was swearing to himself that he was going to euthanize himself if he ever said those thoughts aloud. 
 
Hank knew he could feel victorious when the younger man sighed in defeat and crossed his arms and looked at the man with a look that said okay-so-now-what. 
 
“I'm Hank McCoy.” Hank introduced himself to the male. It seemed strange to him that such a time had passed and he hadn't introduced himself yet. 
 
He hoped it didn't make him look like some blue, furry freak with no manners. Hank was relieved his instincts had kicked in and he held out his hand.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“Alex. Alex Summers.” The man finally introduced himself too. He didn't accept Hank's hand that had been extended. By how Alex was looking at his hand made Hank feel a little bad. 
 
Did Alex see what many people saw?

Don't judge him, don't judge him

, Hank assured himself as he placed his hand down before leading the man to his car.

Don't assume things, Hank, just don't.

Hank closed his umbrella before entering his car. Alex was already buckled in by the time he had entered. Hank was curious and he couldn't tell if Alex was a mutant or not. He wasn't like Charles who could tell instantly after spotting the person! 
 
He had been relieved he had the radio on at the moment. The radio wasn't blasting out music, but the volume was soft enough to where the rain outside could be heard clearly. He was grateful for both of the music and rain. He wouldn't know how to start a conversation with the male in the car. 
 
Hank stole a couple of glances at Alex just to see the blonde staring out of the window. He hated the fact that it was kind of becoming a habit to glance at Alex with the corner of his eyes (and it hadn't even been an hour since he met the male.) 
 
He really wanted to get to know Alex, honestly. He didn't know how to really start a conversation since he rarely talked to anyone. The most he talked was when he was speaking to his friends who happened to be Charles, Raven, Erik or the others at the mansion. His colleagues spoke to him and it was never the topic that didn't concern work. Hank wasn't going to talk about work with Alex. 
 
Surely no one, especially Alex, would want to hear about what he did every day. Especially if it meant that he didn't change this routine at all. 
 
“H-how old are you?” Hank didn't know how that question popped into his head and how instantly his mouth opened to ask such a question. 
 
He wasn't expecting an answer from Alex. He was imagining Alex turning to glance at him with numerous possibilities of expressions and thoughts. Perhaps Alex would look at him in annoyance and think, “What's with this guy?” Or maybe he'd be weirded out and think. “This guy's questions are weirder than his appearance.”
 
Hank would hate to think that Alex would try to escape his house when he fell asleep because he was a little disturbed by Hank. 
 
“Eighteen.” Alex answered simply, not even looking away from the window. 
 
He was eighteen.
 
Hank was once again flabbergasted by the events going on. He tried to be kind to a homeless young man who happened to be stubborn. Said homeless young man wouldn't say yes and rejected any options of him finding some shelter. And now Alex was eighteen. 
 
Why was an eighteen year old homeless? 
 
There were countless reasons Hank could think for the answer to that question. Perhaps there was a disagreement at home between Alex and his family? Or it could be worse enough that maybe Alex didn't even have a family or home? 
 
He couldn't ask that question. Not yet. He didn't even know if he was going to see Alex in the morning. Alex had agreed to wait until the rain was over. It could be over for a few days which would be “staying until the rain stopped” as Alex agreed to. 
 
“I uh...I'm the Secretary of Mutant Affairs.” Hank confirmed out of the blue. He was beating himself up for admitting such a fact aloud.
 
What was Alex supposed to do with this information? Alex was a homeless eighteen year old while Hank was a man with an official title of importance. He didn't want the young man to think how great the blue furry man's life was compared to his own. 
 
Alex hadn't looked away from the window. He still kept his eyes glued to the window where it was pouring outside.
 
“That kind of position must keep you busy.” Alex's response was heard through the small silence that had formed in the atmosphere.
 
Hank hadn't expected the eighteen year old to answer, but he was relieved that he had. Hank despised awkward situations and wished to avoid them. He didn't know whether telling Alex what he did for a living was a good or bad thing. 
 
Alex didn't sound uninterested. Neither did he sound overly joyous about the information Hank had shared.
 
What was the hard part was figuring out what to say next. He just decided to agree with Alex. “It is an important one. It does keep me busy but it's not like there's someone at home being disappointed or anything.”
 
He hated how lonely he sounded. Hank had his friends who he rarely saw, but he had only Ophelia to come home to. He would like to think that Alex hadn't always been by himself. He had to have a family out there who did love him. Who was concerned about his well-being?
 
Were they looking for him now? 
 
Hank continued focusing on driving instead of getting his mind caught up in something entirely different. Right now the main goal was to head home safely especially in this rainy weather. He wanted to get Alex in some dry clothes instead of damp ones he was in at the moment. 
 
The rest of the ride was silent. Alex had gone back to looking out of the window while Hank just focused on the road that would lead him to his house. He hoped Alex would be okay with Ophelia. She was well behaved but strangers weren't her type of thing. 
 
Hank sighed in relief once they pulled up at his house. He saw Alex's surprised facial expression at the corner of his eyes. He could tell Alex was taking in the fact that they were in the middle of a forested area which was where he was going to stay. 
 
Hank didn't feel the need to worry. Numerous people didn't try to risk living in forested areas due to the possibility of coming across a wild animal that would scare them. If anything Hank hoped he didn't scare off any of the innocent animals who were just minding their own business in their large home.  
 
“I always keep the doors and windows locked in case any wild animals approach the house.” Hank wanted to clear up any questions in Alex's head that concerned the animals in the wild. “They only ever bothered me once though. They might be a little frightened of my appearance so that's likely why they've avoided my home.”
 
Alex replied nonverbally with a small nod. He began taking a glance outside, taking in his surroundings.
 
Hank opened his door and exited, noticing Alex had done the same just by looking from the corner of his eyes. He took his keys and locked the car once they were both out. He led the way to the house, opening the front door and opening it wide, stepping to the side to allow Alex to enter first.
 
Slowly, the eighteen years old entered Hank's home. Alex removed his hood, exposing his blonde hair Hank couldn't refuse that the locks brought out his eyes perfectly. Alex's blue eyes landed on every object inside of Hank's house.

A smart tactic

, Hank thought as he watched the boy while locking the front door. 
 
He wasn't going to do anything to Alex but many people wouldn't watch for their surroundings. It brought home in him that if Alex left and went to another stranger's home that he'd be just as strategic. Then again, he couldn't help but think that maybe Alex was doing this because he was in a mutant's home. 
 
The question “are you a mutant too” wasn't one he had asked yet. He was uncertain if he wanted to pop out that question. It wasn't his business but it'd put his mind to rest.
 
Hank thought it’d be for the best to keep quiet for now. Even if Alex was a mutant, perhaps he was self-conscious about it as well? Hank wouldn’t want to make him uncomfortable because he decided to ask unnecessary questions.
 
“I’m going to get you some dry clothes.” Hank felt foolish for waiting too long. He exited the room, leaving Alex by himself.
 
If he wanted the other to trust him, he needed to trust him too.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

When he entered his bedroom, he saw Ophelia seated on a cushion chair he had in his room. The cat was licking her white furry paws.
 
“Hello Ophelia.” Hank greeted her, heading towards her to gently stroke her head. When he went back to look in his closet for clothes, Ophelia jumped off from the chair and ran out.
 
Like he had thought earlier, he hoped Alex wasn’t allergic to cats.
 
Looking for clothes wasn’t like shopping for any, Hank realized. He was ten times more built than Alex so the clothes would fit loose on him. Nostalgia came to him when he remembered being a lanky kid hadn’t been easier either. Even the clothes he wore back then wouldn’t have ever fitted Alex.
 
Once he settled on clothes, he went back to the entrance room. When he entered back to the entrance room with dry clothes, he found Alex kneeling down, petting Ophelia.
 
Hank was awestruck by witnessing Ophelia's reaction to the newcomer. He had seen her around strangers (she wasn't fond of anyone that wasn't Hank.) He would bring that up later as a conversation starter but for now there were more important issues at hand. 
 
“I see Ophelia likes you.” Hank mentioned, eyeing the white Persian cat. Though appalled by Ophelia's behavior, he was relieved. 
 
At least he didn't have to worry about his cat and new guest getting along. 
 
“She's friendly.” Alex was now rubbing under Ophelia's chin. The white cat purred which made the eighteen years old smile.
 
There goes another shocker for Hank. 
 
Not only was he housing an attractive blonde blue eyed eighteen year old anymore. This blonde blue eyed eighteen year old also had a beautiful smile that would make anyone feel joyous.
 
It felt foreign to see Alex smile. Hank hadn't been with the younger for two hours and yet it feels like it's been days. From the moment they met to now, Hank hasn't seen the young man smile. 
 
Hank could estimate why the latter didn't smile. There was likely a very good reason why Alex wasn't in high spirits. It'd be rude to express these thoughts aloud, so Hank kept them to himself.
 
His goal wasn't to meddle into Alex's personal life. If he could help the younger in any way he would. Alex's stunning looks had no effect in those goals (maybe by one perfect) but it was mainly based on Alex's situation. 
 
He didn't even want help in the beginning. Hank had experienced encountering people in better situations demanding for assistance. 
 
Since they would be living together (until Alex felt like it was time), Hank did want to get to know the blonde haired male. He wasn't asking for specifics or even anything Alex didn't want to discuss. 
 
He wanted to get to know Alex when they were both sharing whatever they felt comfortable with. 
 
Alex must have noticed the clothes in Hank's furry blue hands since he had stopped petting Ophelia. 
 
“Here.” Hank snapped out of his thoughts and held the clothes out for Alex to take. The blonde hesitantly took it.
 
Hank tried to bite back those feelings that formed a lump in his throat. As if nostalgia was haunting him, those self-doubt emotions crawled back to his heart.

You have no right feeling this way, Hank

, he scolded himself for thinking those thoughts.

Alex is in an unfamiliar place. DON'T make this about you.

“There's a guest room in the house so you won't have to worry about sleeping on the couch.” Hank's attempt at laughing off his emotions failed.
 
He hoped he didn't sound sarcastic. 
 
Alex clutched onto the clothes as if they provided security. “Thank you, Mr-” 
 
“Just Hank is fine.” He offered Alex a small smile. The icky feelings within prevented him from feeling optimistic. 
 
Ophelia had decided to jump onto the couch where Alex wouldn't be sleeping tonight or any other nights he'd be staying.
 
“The bathroom is down the hall and from across is the spare room.” Hank instructed helpfully. 
 
Alex's smile wasn't the jovial smile from before, but Hank took it. Whatever Alex could give, Hank would take. He couldn't ask much from someone who was enduring a crisis.
 
Hank watched as Alex exited the room with his clothes. He couldn't deny being affected by the fact that someone would be wearing his clothes. If anyone had heard that sentence aloud, they'd think he was sleeping with Alex. 
 
As much as the image implanted itself in his head, Hank stopped it from affecting that part of his body. Hank felt ashamed of himself for even thinking about carnal events with Alex.

Get your filthy mind out the gutter, Henry Philip McCoy

, Hank thought as he made his way back to his bedroom. He could hear Ophelia's soft footsteps from behind. 
 
Hank still needed to shower but decided on allowing Alex to go ahead. Showering later on didn't bother him. He just wanted Alex comfortable. 
 
As he sat at the edge of his bed with Ophelia on his lap, he remembered he hadn't even asked Alex if he might be hungry. He felt like a moron for not asking. 
 
Hank would join Alex but his mutation (beast form) didn't require him to eat everyday. At the most he was able to last two days without food. If Alex wanted to eat by himself then that could be arranged without harm. 
 
His natural instinct would have been to exit his room and ask Alex if he was hungry but he overruled that plan. Alex was showering so there was no way he'd want to be questioned at that time.
 
Hank decided he'd ask Alex when he got out of the shower. 
 
As he had planned on doing before encountering Alex, Hank had taken out his book on physics and headed to the living room to read. Ophelia had gone to her own devices which happened to be playing around in her beige cat tower. 
 
About twenty minutes had passed when Alex emerged from the hallway. Hank looked up from his book just to wish he hadn't. Wet or dry, Alex still appeared stunning. 
 
His blonde locks appeared dark since they were wet. Like Hank knew would happen, Alex's clothes were loose. So loose that the eighteen years old's right shoulder was exposed. Hank was mesmerized by Alex's light, flawless skin. The pants were long on him so he had folded them to his ankles.  He had a towel wrapped around his neck as well.
 
Why are you crushing like a teenage girl? Hank questioned himself. He was an adult and he was thinking about these things? He felt gross! 
 
Hank rose from the couch, putting his right index finger in his book as a bookmark. He attempted composure. “I-I was w-wondering if you were...hungry.”
 
He hadn't anticipated that he would fail to act normal. It had been a long time since he's stuttered or stammered. Typically he was great at expressing his thoughts without feeling shy about it. 
 
Alex was definitely ruining Hank's sanity.
 
“Uh, no thank you. I'm fine.” Alex replied softly. Hank saw Alex's frown and yearned for his smile. “I was going to retire.”
 
Glancing at the clock to distract himself from Alex's unveiled skin, Hank checked the time. It was eight thirty; a reasonable curfew. Maybe Alex needed the rest? Hank didn't know how long the younger had been on the streets. 
 
“Of course.” Hank would head into the shower once Alex was in the guest room. “Good night, Alex.”
 
“Good night, Hank.” Alex sounded like he was trying to rush things. He couldn't have rushed out of the room fast enough.
 
Beaten up again by Alex, Hank knew it was time for the day to end. He placed his bookmark in his book. Before heading to shower, he made sure all doors and windows were locked. Once that was set he took his book with him to his bedroom.
 
He set his book down on his nightstand before heading to his bathroom to take a shower. 
 
While standing underneath the water washing himself, today's events replayed in his head. Usual things happened at work, unusual events had taken place afterwards. He had met and took in a homeless eighteen year old. 
 
Alex had the ability to ruin Hank from the inside. Never before had he felt so attracted to someone. Never before had he felt as self-conscious as he did now.
 
Hank had gotten used to accepting his beast form. Alex wasn't making him hate his mutation, but he wasn't feeling too confident about it. Perhaps Alex wasn't a mutant.
 
After he had finished showering and was dressed in his night clothes, he turned off all the lights inside before heading to his room. Ophelia slept in his room because her bed was in there.
 
Without a clue if Alex was sound asleep, Hank remained wide awake. He turned to the far left on the floor to see Ophelia sleeping soundly in her bed. To his knowledge, Hank was the only one up. 
 
Staring up at his ceiling, Hank couldn't shake off the emotions Alex had caused him to feel. It was too much for him to take. He felt insomnia coming to him. Hank wanted to sleep.
 
Hank was curious. He had questions that needed answers. Hank was a former scientist. All he had to do was study, create, experiment and study again. He would form hypotheses. Notebooks full of mathematical equations that had to do with science. Asking questions came naturally to him.
 
In this situation his questions were limited if he wanted to be a good Samaritan. Be that as it may, Alex might choose to leave when the rain left. For all he knew he might not even get to know more about the other depending on how long he planned to stay.
 
Though Alex had unraveled past emotions of his, Hank did hope he stayed a little longer. Having some company other than Ophelia wouldn't be bad. 
 
And he couldn't help being interested in the blonde haired male.

What a day

, Hank thought before shutting his eyes. He hoped to get a bit of shut eye.
 
There was no telling what was to happen the next day.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

By the time it was morning it had felt like it hadn't been that long. He was lucky to even get some sleep since he was in an unknown place. Alex found the bed way better than the wall he had laid his head on for a week.   Of course this is better than being homeless, idiot, Alex scolded himself. Since this wasn't his place Alex was lost on what to do. He might be a guest but it was all foreign to him. Obviously Hank was a mutant since no human could be blue or flurry so he didn't have to ask that question.  And what human would be the Secretary of Mutant Affairs?  Not every human was bad but the majority of the ones he knew didn't care for mutants. His family didn't need to know he was a mutant for Alex to know they wouldn't accept him.  Long before he had found out he had powers, his parents had voiced out their opinions on mutants. They weren't holding signs up or signing petitions but they shared their thoughts. He may have lost everything but the only thing he truly missed was his younger brother Scott. Alex was grateful his powers weren't triggered when he had been around his family. They didn't need to know how much of a freak he was.  Alex stopped thinking about the events that had brought him to where he was now. He now thought about what he was going to do. He wasn't sitting in an alleyway dwelling in his sorrows anymore.  He looked around the nice room Hank had provided him. The twin bed was comfortable with the necessary things such as a blanket, pillow and bedding. There was a dresser near the window where the closet was next to. On the wall where the door was, had two black shelves that had books and little artifacts mounted onto.  I'm guessing Hank is a nerd ? Alex wondered when he saw that the books on the shelves were all about science. He got up from the bed, the loose shirt revealing his right shoulder again. Alex released a soft groan. It wasn't his fault that Hank's shirts fit too big on him. The blue furry man was just more built than he was. He had to fold up the pants as well since they were a little too long. Alex had been used to getting undressed in front of other guys in P.E. but even the smallest bit of skin being unveiled had made him feel weird. Hank was no teenager like back in high school but he was a mutant so Alex would think he'd be at least a bit more relaxed, yet he wasn't.  He blamed the discomfort on the fact that he was in a whole different environment with someone he didn't know.  You can leave when the rain is gone or not , Hank's words repeated in his mind. Alex was still shocked that he had accepted Hank's offer and had gotten into his car and went home with him.  Slowly he approached the window to look out to see the sky was painted a light grey that could convince an idiot that it'd likely rain later. It wasn't as dark grey as it had been early in the day yesterday.  “Might as well say good morning to my host.” Alex said without enthusiasm. It's not that he had anything against Hank, he was just adjusting to the situation. He could tell that Hank was a nice guy that people strayed away from only because he was a mutant. Hank had been kind enough to offer to take him home. He had given him clothes and a bed to sleep on.  How many people in the world could do that for a homeless eighteen year old who had anger issues?  During the night he had heard the shower from Hank's room turn on meaning the man had decided to shower after he had. While Hank had been showering, Alex had gone back to the bathroom to grab his dirty, wet clothes. When he had ran away from home he had packed lightly since he had no other place to go. He had packed clothes but they ended up soaked when the rainy days occured which was three days ago. It was nice having cozy, dry clothes on his skin.  Said dry clothes happened to belong to another person but he couldn't lie that he preferred them over his damp clothes.  Hank had given him socks with the shirt and pants so he was lucky to have a pair since he didn't feel comfortable walking barefoot in Hank's home. He felt comfortable walking out of the room covered up other than the shirt that showed his shoulder again. When he opened the door to the room, Hank's white cat sat at the doorway licking her left paw. Hank had said her name was Ophelia.   I guess he's a Shakespeare junkie , Alex thought remembering reading Hamlet in his sophomore year.  He had thought schools stopped at the romance tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, but he had read Hamlet and Macbeth too.  Alex got down on his knees to stroke Ophelia's soft white fur. His family had never had a pet before but Scott had always wanted a dog.  In Scott's and dog-lovers' defense, dogs were more friendlier and playful. Cats did what they wanted yet Alex had heard they were still loving companions to cat-lovers. He had one experience with cats and it was with Ophelia and it was going well. She hadn't clawed or ignored him yet so he guessed that was a good sign.  “Good morning, Ophelia.” Alex greeted the white Persian cat. He couldn't help but like her although they've known each other for less than a day. “Did you have a good sleep?”  Whether licking his hand in reply was a “yes” or “no” Alex didn't know. At least she didn't bite him.  He smiled.  Alex felt like picking her up to cuddle into her fur but he didn't want to unsettle her. He didn't want to overstep boundaries. Instead he exited the hallway. He didn't want to ignore Hank, it'd be rude, but he was feeling anxious. When he entered the room he heard noise coming from the kitchen. The living room had a door that was open yesterday (as it was now) where Alex assumed that was where the kitchen and dining room was.  He saw at the corner of his eyes that Ophelia was following right behind him. Within seconds she had sped up and slowly walked in front of him. It brought him comfort that Ophelia was being his guide. She knew the layout of her home, of course. When he entered the room he was greeted by a rectangular dark wood table with two chairs at the ends of the table. It looked like a table made for more than two people, so he guessed Hank might have removed the other chairs.  Alex knew Hank was up since he heard noise coming from the room next door to dining room. There was a door that likely led to the kitchen where he didn't doubt Hank was. He glanced at Ophelia, who looked at him before approaching the door.  When he entered the kitchen he saw Hank's back facing him. He was dressed in a suit, clearly getting ready for work. Alex had found out that his host worked as the “secretary of mutant affairs” which sounded important. Had to do with the well-being of mutants so it affected him. Alex wondered if Hank knew that he was a mutant. He didn't know whether it was important to even tell him. Who knows? Maybe today would be the day he left or tomorrow. It's not like Hank would need to know if he wasn't going to stay that long. Then again, what if he did stay a bit?  He shook his head, You can't possibly stay. You shouldn't be around anyone. You'll just kill them.   Alex told himself that he'd stay until the rain left and that was that. He didn't want to be a nuisance to the kind mutant who had offered him a place. It had been a while since Alex had all of these things and he was grateful but he had to be on his own.  He couldn't be around anyone, mutant or not. His powers were too dangerous and he didn't want to harm someone. He had been lucky that he was just jogging out in the woods blowing off some pent up anger when his powers manifested. He had gotten used to the bullies calling him queer but it still made him mad.  No one got hurt and he wasn't going to let that happen anytime soon. He would be leaving Hank and Ophelia. Hank had turned and flinched when he saw Alex standing there. “G-good morning!”  Alex's eyes widened once he noticed he had gotten Hank's attention. His cheeks turned pink when he realized he hadn't even seen Hank turn around to him. He had been lost in his own head that he hadn't realized anything. “Good morning to you too.” Alex greeted back, feeling an awkward silence entering the room. He hated awkward silences. It wouldn't matter since he'd be leaving. Might as well make the best of it.  Hank was the first one to break the silence. “I made some breakfast...We can eat at the dining room.” Alex blinked and approached the mutant, not wanting to feel useless. Hank was standing with a tray with bowls of oatmeal.  “I'll help, I'd be rude of me to be a lousy guest.” Alex said with a small smile, Ophelia had dashed to the door.  Hank gulped seeing that Alex was close to him. “I can handle it, real-” Alex had grabbed the tray and their hands touched.  Alex jumped back. Hank watched the younger.   You have to make everything difficult, don't you ? Alex scolded himself, not noticing Hank's hurting expression.  “At least let me open the door for you.” Alex said as he headed back to the door where Ophelia and him had entered through. He watched as the cat entered while Hank followed in tow.  He didn't know why things couldn't be normal. His life would be so much better if he hadn't been born a mutant. Or born at all. He wouldn't have to constantly worry about hurting someone.  When he closed the door and entered the dining room, Hank was putting the bowls down. Ophelia was sitting comfortably on the floor right next to Hank as she groomed her paws.  Alex took his seat right across from Hank. They were so far from each other due to the chairs being at the end but this wasn't his house. Hank could have his dining room the way he wanted. Alex couldn't complain.  During breakfast they had eaten in silence. Alex had hated the arrangement but if Hank had something to say he would've said it. Alex couldn't help but feel a bit lonely in the silence. He didn't know why he should feel this way since he had been lonely ever since he had ran away from home.  You might as well get used to it,he told himself as he looked down at his bowl of oatmeal. This is how you're going to spend the rest of your life: alone.  After breakfast, Alex had volunteered to do the dishes since Hank had prepared the food. Hank had finally agreed after two minutes of going back and forth. Hank was writing something down on a small piece of paper and then left it on the counter.  “I've given Ophelia her breakfast already.” Hank said as he stole a glance at the cat who was staring at him as she was walking around the kitchen sniffing. “Adult cats can eat twice a day. Her next meal would be at about 4:00 or 5:00 as that would be dinner time. She has kibble in her food bowl right now that she can nibble on. For her next meal she has some salmon in the fridge.”  Alex finally finished washing the dishes when Hank had explained to him about Ophelia. He felt happy that he was given a job to do. He didn't have to feel useless at least. He wondered if Hank always came home late and who fed Ophelia during the time he wasn't here. The job was left to him now which he didn't mind.  “Sounds good.” Alex said with a small smile as Ophelia made her way towards his legs.  Hank sent him a smile before heading towards the living room, Alex following in tow with Ophelia right behind him. Hank had his briefcase and dressed elegantly in his suit when he opened the door to reveal the weather Alex hadn't expected.  It was pouring.  The small amount of grey cloud Alex had noticed earlier didn't prepare him for rain. A light sprinkle maybe but not rain. Alex couldn't believe that it was raining and he began thinking about the coincidence.  Hank released a long sigh as he got his umbrella and was prepared to go outside and head to his car. He turned to Alex.  “Thank you for watching Ophelia while you're here.” Hank thanked him with a smile. He eyed his cat before averting his eyes back to the eighteen year old. “Make yourself at home, Alex.” Alex felt that Hank didn't need to thank him. It was a nice gesture but Alex felt like it was the least he could do. “Don't mention it. Drive safely.” Alex said as he waved at Hank before he got out of the house with the umbrella opened. Alex sighed deeply.  He looked down at Ophelia who was looking up at him while meowing. Without any clue what she was trying to tell him, Alex had the instinct to pick her up and hold her. He bit his lip and debated.  After a few seconds he bent down and scooped her up. Ophelia didn't mind since she began kissing him. Alex chuckled and headed towards the window in the living room. He watched as Hank drove away.  He looked at the sky. It was a mix of dark and grey clouds as the rain poured. Many people despised the rain since it got them wet and could be seen as a nuisance to them. Alex had felt that way a bit when he was in the alleyway. He had gotten all soaked and cold.  Today he didn't hate the rain. He softly stroked Ophelia's fur as he scoffed with sad eyes.   Damn it, you're getting attached , Alex thought as he felt grateful and happy that it was raining once again.  For an instance, he wished the rain would never stop.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Leaving his home hadn't been an easy task. Leaving with a clear mind was just as a hassle. He hadn't been expecting rain but he guessed it only made sense why it had rained the day before. It was just that season coming up again. He didn't mind since he knew how to drive in the rain and he always had his umbrella with him. 
 
Hank was an early riser and he had gotten used to that since long ago. His new mutation had gifted him with enhanced senses so he could hear ten times better than any regular mutant could. His ears were fragile so the smallest noise could wake him up. 
 
If someone were to attempt to break into his house it wouldn't be an easy task for the intruder. Hank was thankful for that. 
 
Either way he had gotten used to waking up early and after he got Ophelia, he continued following it. He fed her breakfast before feeding himself. It was required when being a parent to a cat. It was the closest he was going to get to being one so he enjoyed it. 
 
Waking up early this morning wasn't going to be any different. This time he had a guest so he'd be making breakfast for two instead of one which was different but he didn't mind. Technically he was making food for three since Ophelia was the second one. 
 
Couldn't forget Ophelia. 
 
He had fed Ophelia and began making breakfast for Alex and him. While making the food, Hank had pondered on whether or not he should wake up the other. He had been opposing the idea more than agreeing to it. He didn't want to cross a line. They were still strangers to each other and he didn't want to scare Alex off.
 
Alex had woken up himself and Hank felt the emotions from yesterday rising once he gazed upon the beautiful boy. Hank still had gulped when he noticed the skin exposure from Alex's shoulder since the shirt had been too big for him. 
 
Hank despised his perverted thoughts but he had forbidden himself to go past just staring. He was aware about the nature of love and sex. Hank didn't want to think of Alex that way since it was disrespectful towards his guest. 
 
Besides there was no way Alex could ever imagine him that way. Years ago Hank would have said it was due to his appearance but he had learned to accept it. He didn't blame it much on his new mutation but mostly on the other aspects. 
 
He was older than Alex. He also had claws and fangs. He was blue and furry. He was beginning to blame his appearance within seconds now that Alex had entered his life and he's admitted to finding the young man attractive.
 
Hank had stopped thinking about the hate he had for his mutation for the longest time. With the help of his friends who cared about him and strengthening his confidence, Hank learned to live with the new look. 
 
All that had to be done was for Alex to walk into his life and Hank was back to wishing he didn't look the way he did. How could one person change someone's thoughts about themselves all of sudden?

You're smitten, you idiot

! Hank thought as he continued driving towards his work building. 
 
The smallest moments happened when those poisonous thoughts came back to him. When he gave Alex the clothes and then when their hands touched earlier. Hank had seen both of Alex's reactions. He looked like he had just touched something that'd bitten him. 
 
He even recalled what happened before that hesitation in Alex had occurred. Alex had been petting Ophelia before Hank had handed him the clothes. Alex had been thanking Hank for making breakfast before their hands touched. 
 
Seemingly everything was good until the obvious was pointed out. Hank wasn't normal. He was a beast. Not everyone was a mutant that looked identical to a human like Charles and Erik had. Raven could even change her appearances to whatever she wished. 
 
Out of the entire morning with Alex, all Hank could think about was when their hands touched. He thought about the beautiful moments ruined by him. If he looked normal there wouldn't be an issue. If he had accepted his original mutation and didn't try to mess with Mother Nature he wouldn't be in this situation. 
 
Hank sighed as he parked and got out. It was still pouring which was a good and bad thing. If Alex was going to leave when the rain stopped, he wouldn't be leaving today. Then there was the bad which was possibly slipping or getting all wet. 
 
As he walked towards the building, he thought about leaving Ophelia with Alex. Originally Hank would hire someone, who liked cats, to go feed Ophelia. He had called the young woman by the name Tandy Bowen. She lived nearby and loved cats so she didn't mind. He had given her a spare key and paid her fairly. He told her he wouldn't need her today since someone was at home. 
 
It wouldn't be long before he would go back to the days when Alex wasn't at his home. Today would be the first day and he knew it was going to feel horrible whenever he left. Ophelia would feel it too. Hank couldn't help but hope the rain would last longer. 
 
Even if the rain stayed or left, Hank had no right to be selfish. He couldn't ask Alex to stay if he didn't want to. Yeah by the second Hank may be falling hard, it wasn't right to ask such a thing of Alex. Hank just hoped that when Alex left he wouldn't be back on the street again. Alex didn't deserve that life. 
 
"Perhaps I should give him some money?" Hank thought aloud as he made his way into the elevator and pressed on the button that would take him to the fifth floor of the ten floor building. 
 
That could seem offensive if he were to give money to Alex. He didn't want to anger the eighteen year old. If he were to give him money he'd have to hide it in Alex's backpack so he would find it long after he left. Hank wouldn't want it back since it was going to be used for good. Hank didn't have a clue how he'd even get a hold of Alex's bag. 
 
Maybe while he's showering? Hank thought as he briefly pictured Alex in the shower. He stopped immediately when he imagined Alex's naked body. 
 
“STOP!” Hank growled loudly as the elevator doors opened and anyone who was walking by looked at him in confusion or worry. 
 
A young woman came to him. “Are you okay, Secretary McCoy?” She didn't look afraid of him but concerned. 
 
Hank gave her a smile. “I'm fine, thank you. Don't mind me.” He stepped out of the elevator and made way towards his office. 
 
Once he entered his office he closed his door instantly to avoid anymore stares. Ever since he began working people got used to his mutation. They no longer looked at him because of how he looked but they were concerned if he was ready to go off on someone.
 
Hank didn't know why people thought he was ready to put someone in their place violently. He considered it was since his X-Men title had been “Beast.” And he had been angry over tiny things at work and others were fearful of being on his bad side. Hank wasn't an angry person he was like everyone else...almost. 
 
He didn't doubt that today would go slow. With his job his assistant gave him his messages, he got calls and had documents to read, sign or create. He loved his job but he couldn't say it was sometimes a bore when he realized how he did the same thing every day. 
 
It was so unlike back in the days when he used to fight and go on missions with Charles and the X-Men. Or even when he had worked for the CIA or spent his time in a lab conducting experiments. His life was different now. 
 
Even though he had work, Hank didn't stop thinking about Alex. He trusted Alex to care for Ophelia. He was delighted to see that the two were getting along. And Alex wasn't allergic to cats. 
 
“We just received some new students, Hank.” Charles had said through the other line on the phone. 
 
Charles had called during lunch time to update him about what was going on back at Westchester. Hank had promised to visit soon and they both shared what was new in their lives. 
 
“They're working alongside the Avengers?” Hank questioned with widened eyes as Charles explained about Pietro and Wanda.
 
“Both of them had gone on a mission to a country called Sokovia. They met them there and were offered a position.” Charles had stopped briefly to chuckle. He continued. “You should've seen Erik's face.”
 
Hank grinned. “That's good for them, maybe not for Erik, but for them.” It was good knowing Charles's and Erik's children were doing fine. “David and Lorna are good too?”
 
“David has been going on missions with Raven a lot while Erik is helping Lorna become more advanced with her powers.” Charles explained. 
 
Hank remembered being there when Charles's and Erik's children were smaller. He hadn't left the mansion yet and had been there ever since the four of them had been born. They were like nieces and nephews to him. Everyone who had ever lived in the Xavier Mansion were basically family. 
 
After their call Hank thought about how his friends had all ended up with a family of their own. Raven and her husband, Azazel, had their son, Kurt. Charles and Erik had their four children. Darwin and Angel had children. Heck even Sean had a daughter, Theresa. 
 
Hank hadn't ever thought about children in his entire life until students started to come into the school or when his friends started having their own. He had cut ties with his parents after graduating Harvard at fifteen and arriving at the CIA. He couldn't be parent material. But no one is at first, right?
 
It sucked but when Hank thought about it realistically if he was going to have children wouldn't he have had them by now? Wouldn't he have found the person he was going to raise them with? Not saying single parents couldn't do a thing but he'd imagine he'd raise a child with the person he was supposed to spend the rest of his life with. 
 
He's never gotten there. He might never.

Wasn't it obvious after your original mutation manifested

? Hank thought as he eyed his shoes. 
 
His first problem had been that no one would want to be with him since he had big freakish looking feet. Afterwards it was  his beast appearance. 
 
Like he said, Ophelia would be the closest he'd come to ever having children.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

For only living with a cat, Hank's house was big. He hadn't seen the door that was in the living room since he concentrated on whether or not he could trust the other mutant. Ophelia had also been a distraction as well once he met her at first. 
 
Hank seemed to be a friendly guy which Alex was delighted about. Just like there were bad humans there were bad mutants too. Alex was lucky that he didn't get stuck with some creep. Hank was a good host by far. 
 
Alex had walked over to the door with Ophelia following in tow. When he turned the doorknob it opened due to the lack of a lock. He opened it wide and looked inside to see a flight of stairs that led down. He gulped. 
 
“He better not be a serial killer.” Alex said as he eyed Ophelia who was licking her left paw without any care to what Alex was doing. 
 
Alex scoffed at the cat. He kept the door open, hoping it wouldn't automatically shut. He was relieved when he took a step in and it stayed. Alex bent down and opened his arms to see if Ophelia wanted to go with him. He smiled when she stopped grooming her paw and jumped into his arms. 
 
Carefully, he went down the stairs with Ophelia in his arms. It nearly felt like he was inside of a horror movie. He knew Hank was no serial killer but unknown basements gave him the creeps. 
 
There was a switch on the left side of the wall once he got to the eighth step of the stairs. While holding Ophelia in his other arm, he allowed his other one to extend so he could flip the switch on. Once the lights were on, Alex didn't feel too nervous anymore.
 
It was a laboratory. Or a mini one at least. Typically laboratories were big like the ones at school, Alex imagined. There were tables with vials, microscopes and books with titles relating to science. The shelves nearby were full of science books and notebooks likely full of writings belonging to Hank. 
 
Clearly, the cabinets were full of stuff probably relating to science too. He would open them just to peek inside but one thing at a time. Alex placed Ophelia down so she could go explore herself. She's been down here numerous times, Alex guessed.
 
Ophelia was sniffing the ground and the cabinets as well. Alex looked at the tables and debated on picking a book or looking into the microscope. He picked up a book on geophysics which didn't interest him at all. He set the book down as quick as he had picked it up. 
 
Denying his instinct of looking inside of a microscope, he approached the shelves with the textbooks and notebooks. He randomly picked one up and curiously opened it. He stood there frozen when he saw the words “CURE SERUM” written at the front of the first page. 
 
Alex told his head as he went to the next page. There were formulas and notes written all over the paper. All of the writings were crossed out though still could be seen. 
 
Someone wanting a cure means there's something wrong that needs to be fixed, Alex thought as he put the notebook back in its place.
 
“Come on, Ophelia's, let's get out of your dad's lab.” Alex said as he made his way towards the stairway. 
 
Ophelia, a well behaved cat, followed Alex by heading upstairs all by herself. Once he made sure she had made it to the top, Alex pressed the switch and the lights went off. He ran up the stairs and closed the door.
 
Just by skimming through what was downstairs, Alex could tell Hank was a former scientist. There was no way that the blue mutant hadn't been a scientist. The only way his question would be answered is if he asked Hank about it. Then again, he would be confessing to the other mutant that he had snooped around. 
 
Hank had already welcomed him into his home and now he was just spying around? 
 
Alex pouted as he looked at Ophelia. “If your dad likes science so much, why didn't he just become a scientist, hmm?” 
 
Hank clearly loved science just by all the books he had plus the mini lab downstairs. However Hank was the Secretary of Mutant Affairs, he doubted that position had anything to do with science. 
 
Just by looking inside of the notebook with the crossed out formulas, Alex could tell Hank's love of science was serious. Maybe he had stopped due to some failed experiment? 
 
He glanced at the windows to see it was raining. A smile crept onto his face. He didn't know why he had been happy but he just was. Majority of people would be down due to the rain, but he wasn't (especially since he had been dealing with the rain before Hank accepted him into his home.)

Damn it, Summers, why does it seem like you're falling in love with your host

? Alex thought in frustration. 
 
Alex had never felt this way around anyone before. He was aware of his sexuality since he entered high school so it's like it was the first time finding attraction towards another male. 
 
He didn't think this was just a minor attraction, unfortunately. And he knew there was no way it was lust. He liked all of Hank, not just his physical appearance. His personality was intoxicating. 
 
Even though he may have wanted to stay or if there was some possible way that he could ever be with the other mutant, Alex wouldn't let it happen. He couldn't. 
 
Alex had made it very clear to himself on why he couldn't be close to anyone. He figured out that he was going to have to be a loner once he figured out his mutation. How could he trust himself to be around someone when there was a possibility that he could hurt the person he cares about? 
 
The thought of hurting Hank or even Ophelia made him shudder. 
 
No. He wouldn't be hurting either of them because he wouldn't be staying forever. Hank was a good person and he deserved to live his life with someone who couldn't possibly kill him. And Ophelia, the sweet innocent and loving cat, needed to stay with her dad. 
 
As sad as it may be to him and though it may hurt, Alex couldn't think about himself. There was no way he was going to be selfish. Hank and Ophelia being alive mattered more than his own happiness. And he was being serious. 
 
"What am I going to do, Ophelia?" Alex asked the white Persian cat. 
 
Telling himself that he was going to leave was definitely easier than actually doing it. He hadn't even been at Hank's house for that long and he was growing attached. 
 
This was going to be harder than he thought.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Once he came back from Hank's mini lab downstairs, Alex had made sure Ophelia was fed. He found a little brush that was specifically for cats lying on one of the nearby stands. It didn't take much for him to coax the feline into getting in his lap so he could begin brushing her hair. He was delighted (which had been rare for ever since figuring out his powers) that Ophelia had taken a liking to him. 
 
He chuckled when he saw mini clouds attached to the brush. Ophelia did appear like a little cloud with her white fluffy hair. Alex continued brushing her, stopping a moment when he felt her little tongue giving him kisses on his other hand that was resting near her little paw. He was so lost in the moment that someone was being "affectionate" with him that he placed a small kiss on top of Ophelia's head. 
 
Alex paused for that moment. At the corner of his eye, he could see Ophelia looking up at him wondering why he stopped. To soothe her, he stroked her white fur instead of continuing to use the ice blue brush. 
 
It was hard with this new adjustment. He didn't even know if it was permanent, but it was starting to feel like it. As if Ophelia was his cat. It was normal for him to be sitting on the couch combing her hair. It all felt like home, but it wasn't. It was a temporary shelter. 
 
Hank was generous and continued to say that he could stay for as long as he liked. Alex doubted that would last long. Why would Hank help him? He was getting absolutely nothing out of this besides maybe someone to watch Ophelia. 
 
Alex knew his parents wouldn't have kept him in their home because he was a

mutant

. With Hank, he was nothing. He was just some homeless, hot-headed mutant. He wasn't bothering Hank and he wouldn't, but he held no value in the other man's life. 
 
He may have found Hank attractive and maybe in some perfect world, it could have been something. Hank seemed to be both a logical and kind man - the kindness would never ask him to leave. Alex wasn't anything to Hank though. Alex felt like a burden and it didn't take much for him to know that he was one. 
 
He made everything difficult if not ruining it. Alex couldn't forget the sad look Hank sent him when their hands touched. If for some reason Hank found him worth anything, that moment proved to him that he wasn't. The blue mutant likely believed he was some jerk. 
 
“Your dad probably thinks I'm a douchebag or something,” the blonde broke the silence as he rubbed Ophelia's ears gently. Ophelia purred in response, not understanding Alex's dilemma, but the blonde didn't mind. 
 
He decided to take a look at the backyard door where the raindrops were scattered all over the glass. While he held Ophelia securely, his blue eyes rested on the garden outside. He could see different kinds of flowers and even some fruit trees. It made it easier to grow your own food than having to go purchase it. 
 
Alex's mind went back to the lab downstairs with the CURE SERUM notebook. Did Hank grow stuff so he wouldn't have to go to public stores? Alex could understand why it might not have been easy for some mutants to feel comfortable with their mutation, especially when it came to a difference in physical appearance. 
 
His own mutation didn't involve his appearance, but even then he couldn't trust himself to be around other people. No one would ever guess he was a mutant until it was too late. 
 
A part of him would have wanted to go outside and see the garden, but it wasn't his home. Besides, it was raining outside and Alex didn't want to get wet again. Ophelia wouldn't appreciate it, but it's not like she'd follow him outside. Maybe he could ask Hank some other time? 
 
He stood in front of the glass doors with Ophelia in his arms, not paying attention to the time that had gone by. Alex flinched a bit when he heard the door opening. He had to remind himself that this wasn't his place and the only person who had access was Hank. He held Ophelia, just so she wouldn't accidentally leave through the door while Hank was trying to enter. It seemed like she was an obedient cat, but Alex wasn't going to be at fault for someone's missing pet. 
 
Once he heard the door shut and loud footsteps, he let go of Ophelia. He could imagine Ophelia purring while rubbing herself on Hank's leg, demanding for attention. Alex didn't wait long enough to see Hank enter the room with Ophelia in his hands while awkwardly holding his briefcase.
 
“Hey,” the blonde mutant proceeded towards Hank. Hank handed him his briefcase while he held Ophelia with the other arm. 
 
Hank rubbed underneath Ophelia's neck, earning purrs. “How was your day?”
 
“It was pretty good. Ophelia and I hung out all day.” Alex was going to keep the fact that he overstepped his boundaries by exploring Hank's mini lab. The other wouldn't feel happy to hear someone,

a complete stranger,

invaded his privacy. 
 
Alex would have liked to have mentioned something along the lines of him not needing a cure, but that wouldn't be appropriate of him. Hank would ask how he knew about him wanting to find a cure and then Alex wouldn't be able to keep the secret of him going downstairs to himself. 
 
He wished the other would know he didn't need a cure. Maybe Hank had forgotten all about it? Maybe he's accepted himself? Too many questions he didn't have the answers for.

Why do you care?

Alex thought while watching some little clouds of Ophelia's fur becoming attached to Hank's suit. Alex chuckled at the sight. 
 
“I noticed you had a garden out there. It looks nice.” Alex blurted, feeling embarrassed for bringing it up out of the blue. 
 
Hank smiled softly, delighted that the younger was getting comfortable. He hoped he hadn't gone out or his clothes would be drenched. From what he could see, Alex was completely dry. Maybe when it wasn't raining, Hank could show him the garden? 
 
The blue furry mutant felt warm inside thinking about that possibility. What Alex be interested? Would he stay long after the rain stopped? Hank checked the weather schedule for the week and he saw that the rain wouldn't stop until a few more days. 
 
Why did he bother checking? Alex was attractive and Hank didn't mind getting to know the other, but he wasn't sure if that was mutual. 
 
Hank hadn't realized he opened his mouth until after he had spoken. “When it stops raining, I can show the garden to you...or if you'd rather prefer-”
 
"I'd like that.” Alex answered a little too quickly. He felt like banging his head on the wall, hoping Hank didn't notice. 
 
Hank was more than joyous to hear Alex's response. Perhaps he was even a bit too happy? He wasn't complaining, that's for certain. Hank couldn't get Alex's small smile out of his head. Or the thought that they'd be spending more time together.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The rain cleared up a bit. Today was going to be a day where there wouldn't be any, but the skies were still gray. Tomorrow the rain should return and so forth. 
 
Alex was delighted to see the garden Hank has taken time taking care of. He didn't realize how important it had been. Hank was always checking the weather cast so it wouldn't rain on their parade. Alex thought it was nice of the blue teddy bear man to care about the time he was going to spend with Alex. 
 
Ophelia wouldn't be going out - she was an inside cat, though Alex knew some people brought their cats outside. He still appreciated the gesture of being given Hank's full attention. Jokingly, he wondered if Ophelia would get jealous. 
 
“There's a ton of rain here. It's good for the plants, but not all flowers love the rain. I planted ones that could stand it so they wouldn't die,” the blue furry mutant clarified as he approached a section of the white calla flowers. 
 
Alex crossed his arms and smiled softly as he followed Hank through his garden in the back. The blonde turned back to see Ophelia watching them through the glass door. He couldn't tell if she was happy or sad, but he hoped she welcomed him when he came back in. He liked the feline and she accepted him into her home. With a grin, he hoped him spending time with Hank didn't put a wedge between Ophelia's and his friendship. 
 
The younger mutant glanced up at the gray skies. He was enjoying Hank's and Ophelia's company (not that he'd admit aloud) and he had an excuse to stay with them longer. Today was the only day, from what Hank said, that there would be no rain. The skies were gray, but that was just to signify that the showers would come back as fast as they left. 
 
Hank was towards a section of his garden where pink flowers were planted. They were five-petaled white blooms with yellow centers exploding through the tall, hairy stems. 
 
“These are forget-me-nots. There are different colors like pale blue, pink and white. They can range from the meaning of remembrance, hence the name. When giving this flower to someone, it means you truly love and respect them.” Hank explained as his eyes rested on the forget-me-nots. 
 
“These blue flowers are really pretty.” Alex commented as he stared at another section of the garden. These flowers were a nice shade of light blue that had tiny fertile flower buds in the center, with showy flowers that circle the edge of the flower head. They were a magnificent sight. 
 
Hank strayed from the calla and faced towards the flowers that caught Alex's attention. “Those are hydrangeas. There are different colors and they all have different meanings.”
 
“What does blue mean?” Alex inquired curiously. 
 
Hank clicked his tongue and placed his hands on his hips. “Not a happy meaning, I warn you. The blue ones mean frigidity and apologies.” 
 
Alex looked at Hank as if he was trying to read him. “Did you pick these for their meaning or color?” Had a friend gifted a bag of hydrangea seeds to Hank as some apology? He was likely overthinking things, but he couldn't help opening his big mouth. 
 
“It was a gift from a friend of mine.” Hank replied. Alex refrained himself from triumphing victoriously because of his lucky guess. “She wasn't apologizing, she's never done anything wrong. She's my best friend. She thought they would be a nice addition to my garden.”

Because you're blue?

Alex thought, making sure to not mutter that question. 
 
Alex had been lost in his thoughts that he hadn't noticed Hank pick a single hydrangea from the section and held one out for him. The blonde was stunned and felt foolish for freezing up like that. 
 
Didn't people give flowers to people they liked? Or was that him overthinking again? It could be a friendly gesture. 
 
“What's this?” Alex meant the gesture since he knew it was a flower and Hank just described it including telling him the name of the flower. 
 
Hank shrugged shyly, refusing to look into Alex's blue eyes. “They remind me of your blue eyes.”

And my own too,

he wanted to say, but Alex didn't know about his past. It wasn't something he was willing to share yet. 
 
Alex went crimson as he took the flower and held it carefully. It was sweet of Hank. He was being kind enough to show him the garden he clearly loved. Hank knew the names of the flowers, their meanings and kept them looking nice so he did love them. It meant a lot to show someone something you valued and cared for. 
 
“They are poisonous to animals, so make sure Ophelia goes nowhere near it,” the blue furry mutant warned with a wide smile. He wasn't joking, but seeing Alex's shocked face made him feel warm inside. 
 
There was a pregnant silence during that moment. Hank watched as Alex went back to inspecting the garden. He noticed the other holding the single hydrangea as if it were glass. When someone was interested in someone else, it was normal to give them flowers. Then again, if Hank remembered correctly, it was usually bouquets. Did Alex even have the slightest clue of his emotions? 
 
Perhaps he wasn't making it obvious? Did he event want to? Hank considered he might face rejection from the blonde mutant. It would break him - his one chance of being in love ended up with a broken heart. Was he in love with Alex? 
 
Unexpectedly, Alex must have realized he was doing nothing. The blonde turned around and their eyes met. Blue met amber. It was as if time and space didn't matter - everything stopped for that one moment. It was simple and could be meaningless to everyone else, but not to them. The small instant was much more than their eyes being in contact. 
 
Hank's breath caught in his throat when he saw Alex smile at him. His blue eyes softened and his smile was one of happiness, nearly euphoric. 
 
Was Alex happy being in his home with Ophelia and he? It would be too good to be true, but Alex's smile was telling him this. Evidently, he enjoyed getting to know about his garden. Hank saw how the younger was with Ophelia. The feline loved their guest. It would be nice to capture those moments on a camera, but he couldn't disturb it. He would remember those moments forever whether he wanted to or not. 
 
Hank smiled back. Alex turned around shyly, his attention back on the flowers. Hank opened his mouth to say something, but Alex's back was towards him. He wanted to tell him about his past. He wanted to tell him to stay with Ophelia and him. There was so much he wanted to say, but something was pulling him back. 
 
What if Alex rejected him? There was a list of reasons Hank could come up with. The reason he was so weak around Alex was because he felt something strong for him. He wanted to be perfect for Alex. When he thought of telling Alex how he felt, he remembered the moments of insecurity after he tried modifying his mutation. Hand like feet to a blue beast. 
 
“Hank?” 
 
The blue furry mutant snapped out of his thoughts and his amber eyes met blue ones again. This time, Alex was sending him a worried expression. Of course, Hank spaced out and now Alex stood there calling out his name.

You probably look like an idiot, Hank!

Hank thought. He refrained from facepalming his face. 
 
“Oh, I'm sorry, Alex,” the older mutant apologized for getting lost in his thoughts. “What were you saying?”
 
Alex sent him a teasing smile. “You seem to love your gardening. What other hobbies interest you?” 
 
It took him only a second to come up with anything but science. If Alex saw his lab downstairs, he'd be convinced of that fact. He wondered what Alex would think if he found out he tried to fix his mutation twice? He couldn't help but wonder what Alex's mutation was. They had yet to discuss that. It was a topic for another day. 
 
When he talked about his mutation it never made him feel happy and they were enjoying themselves right now. Hank didn't want to ruin that. Maybe Alex didn't want to talk about his powers either? He never brought it up. 
 
“I have loved science ever since I was younger. Whether it was learning the development of nature or conducting experiments, it's always held my interest.” Hank would have to show Alex his lab. He hoped it didn't bore him to death or anything.
 
Alex chuckled. “I can see you liking science for some reason.” Hank failed to notice Alex's nervous eyes as if he could see right through him. 
 
“Let's see…” Hank was in deep thought while he thought of something else besides testing theories developed by scientists. “I once learned how to slow dance.” He gulped when he realized what he said. 
 
Alex tilted his head with a grin ear to ear plastered on his face. “You as a dancer? I wouldn't mind seeing that.”
 
“I could teach you.” Hank felt like slapping himself in the face for impulsively throwing random words out like that. Did love make you do that? “O-or unless you'd prefer not-”
 
Alex interjected. “I'm not opposed to the idea.” The softness in his eyes told Hank that he hadn't made the wrong decision by making the offer. 
 
Hank sighed in relief, hoping Alex hadn't noticed he was worried he said the wrong thing. He was glad to see that happy smile on Alex's face again. He was beginning to feel even happier as well the longer Alex was with him and Ophelia too, of course. 
 
He hoped he would never leave.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Hey guys I know it has been some time since I've updated this and my motivation for this one is a bit slow. I've taken care of some other fics deciding them to be discontinued, but this one I don't want to discontinue yet so as of right now it's not being discontinued. I'll just juggle writing this fic along with another fic I'm working on. The other one I'm working on is close to finishing so even while updating that one, it should be give me time to see where I want to go with this fic. Once again sorry for the long wait, everything has just been busy for me 😅 but this fic should hopefully get going soon we'll see. Thank you for all the reads, comments and kudos!!! Very much appreciated ❤❤❤❤❤

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Hi everyone, so I have been going over my works and seeing what I can devote my full attention to and what I can't. I never really thought of discontinuing in any of my stories until last year. I thought to myself "It's okay, I'll just go on a hiatus and at some point I'll pick myself back up on this story and I'll magically continue it." I would feel horrible at the thought of discontinuing my works because I care about them a lot. I clearly put a lot of work and my time in it because I had this vision and paths of where I wanted my works to go. I'd see it as a HUGE loss to discontinue it. However, as a writer, I have to be honest with myself. If my heart isn't in it anymore and I'm having a hard time going back to it, maybe it's just unfortunately a work I can no longer feel the spark anymore. I realize that that happens sometimes and to not feel bad about it. It doesn't make me any less of a writer if anything it makes me a better writer because if I were to continue on with it when not being into it, the work might fall short and that's the last thing I want to do.

So, I'm sad to say that I am discontinuing this. I know so many people love it and have been supporting it - which I am very grateful for. However, just because I'm discontinuing it that doesn't mean that it's gonna go away or that there's not an opportunity for it to be completed. I did this with another story of mine that I discontinued, but I was wondering for all Halex shippers out there if anyone would love to continue this great story. I'd share the chapters that I have written out on a Google Docs and you can take it to which you see fit. One of the best supporters for this story was @Amber Henderson because they poured out a ton of ideas and you can see in the comment section how much those helpful ideas did help the story flow. And thank you so much Amber for requesting this story because although I may not be continuing it, it was still very fun to write and my first story I had been requested to write.

So once again this story is up for anyone who would like to continue it. Just lemme know on the comment section and we'll go on from there. If someone does want to continue it, the story will still be on my account until someone claims it and then I will give them all the rights to the story. Thank you all 💙💙💙💙

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Hello everyone! 
 
I am back. Now, I know that the last few updates I mentioned having not finishing this and the possibility I might not ever... well, it's also been a while since I've been on this account and while working on original stuff, I do miss this account and everything I was working on. And I've even gotten into some new fandoms! *I'm not sure if I'm going to be writing for those because I don't have any fanfic ideas at the moment so we'll see* BUT I always return to the things I love, and I love X-Men and recently I went back down memory lane and I think I want to go back to writing X-Men fics. You'll probably notice my series of the Xavier Mansion I did orphan them (I really regret doing it and I did so impulsively) but they can still be found on Ao3 and I might decide to add to them? Even though it wouldn't be a part of the orphaned series because I can't add to those manually but I can always mention on the caption about it and whatnot. 
 
Anyway, my love for Cherik and Halex are still very present and I still like writing mpreg fics - that's never changed and it might not ever, so....
 
I'm going to return to this fic and finish it at some point. I want to, and I miss writing Halex and Cherik, and just about the X-Men. It's a fandom I love and miss and I want to definitely write fics for it again. I'm trying to brainstorm other ideas - none are sticking at the moment, but until then I'm going to devote myself to working on this one since this is the only X-MEN fic I had on this account. So yeah! I'm excited and I can't wait to share my X-MEN fics again and update this fic 😊

Thank you everyone for just staying with me and having hope that I'd might come back to this, it means a lot and just thank you again 🫶🫶🫶🫶
 
P.s. I'm working on the next chapter to this now 🫶

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The blue furry mutant couldn't believe what he agreed to doing. It was on the spur of the moment when he asked Alex. The circumstance seemed appropriate and it would mean they would spend more time together. However, slow dancing was quite intimate. Was Alex saying yes his way of showing that he found Hank interesting? So many questions with zero answers. 
 
Ophelia probably believed him to be some fool for not being more forward with Alex, or so he imagined. He couldn't just abruptly tell the blonde how he felt. Or how the feelings within were only becoming stronger. It wouldn't be fair to Alex. They were somewhat friends and he could easily ruin that by telling him how he felt. 
 
Alex could find it uncomfortable and want to leave which Hank didn't want. He didn't want Alex with him because he was falling for him, but because it was nice having someone other than a cat waiting at home for you. Even if Alex never learns to love him, Hank wouldn't change it for the world. Deep down, he might be sad, but the blonde would be there. That was more than enough. 
 
The younger man wasn't a charity case to him, but he was still happy that Alex had somewhere to stay. He didn't want to take advantage of Alex's trust. 
 
Still, Hank did feel his heart skip a beat at the thought that Alex said yes about wanting to know how to slow dance. 
 
It had been a while since he had slow danced. Back when Sebastian Shaw had been a problem, Hank remembered learning from another fellow friend of his, Raven Darkhölme. She has made a name for herself as Mystique, a mutant he knows would do anything to make sure all mutants had rights all over the world. She had learned from Charles how to slow dance and with him having such a low self-esteem, she helped him. She tried helping him get out of his shell of insecurities he had about his mutation. 
 
He learned later on that he had to be the one to accept himself for who he was when everyone he valued already had. It was not an easy road and he couldn't say that he always felt confident about his mutation. Feeling attracted to Alex Summers definitely got him back in that shell he had tried so hard to free himself from. Raven had also been the last person he had been attracted to and got close to. They discovered their feelings were better off being platonic, but Hank still cared deeply about Raven. They went down different paths, yet Hank knew they'd always be there for each other. 
 
It had been a long time since learning how to slow dance, however he could remember such a simple and intimate task. Raven had been a good teacher and it didn't help at the time that he had felt attested to her at the time.

He

would be the one leading this time around. He could imagine Raven being amused, probably Charles too. 
 
Hank stopped thinking too much and focused on the record player in front of him. It had been a gift from Charles a while back. Music was not something he always played since he rarely used the record player, yet Hank was delighted about the sentimental gift. He had a few records and he preferred classical music so it was perfect. Thankfully, also perfect for this moment too.  
 
He grabbed a record and placed it on the player, smiling at the soft tune of the violin. It had always been his favorite orchestra instrument. He heard soft footsteps enter the room, signaling Alex was waiting for him. 
 
"Are you still sure about this?" Hank asked, turning to see Alex standing a few feet from him. The living room was the best place since there wasn't a ton of furniture and the record player was there too. 
 
Alex had his arms crossed in front of his chest. "Yes, Hank. I'm sure." He chuckled lightly when Ophelia came nuzzling her face on his leg. "Unless… you don't feel comfortable with it?" 
 
Hank shook his head. "No, no. I'm perfectly comfortable!" He didn't want Alex to think that he was uncomfortable being around him. He would have thought it would be the other way around. Now that he knew Alex was fine, he should stop overthinking it. 
 
"Slow dancing is a very intimate dance, but it's not that platonic friends couldn't enjoy such a dance either." Hank explained. 
 
Alex smirked. "Are you giving me a history lesson on slow dancing?" 
 
"

No

."

You're stalling

, he knew Raven would say. Hank approached the blond. "We'll be really close to each other and because of that, please let me know if anything makes you uncomfortable, okay?" He could think of a list of reasons for Alex to be uncomfortable around him (his mutation being the main one), but he wasn't going to tell him. 
 
"I promise I'll yell you." Alex reassured him. 
 
That was good enough for Hank to start. "Now, um… Since I'm leading, I'm going to place my right hand on your back. Sound good?" Alex gave a small nod. Hank watched his blue, furry hand rest on Alex's back. "And then you can place your left arm on the length of my arm or my shoulder." 
 
Alex placed his left arm on Hank's shoulder without hesitation. For such an intimate activity, he was confident in doing what he was instructed. Alex wasn't as hesitant as Hank knew he was being. It reminded him that Alex was the one to agree with learning how to slow dance. 
 
"Now what?" Alex asked. 
 
"I'm going to take your right hand with my left hand." Hank gently took Alex's hand in his. When Alex squeezed his hand gently, Hank gulped. He wasn't expecting the gesture, but he found himself smiling at the blond. Alex smiled back. 
 
Alex eyed his intertwined hand. "Is this the regular position even when you're slow dancing with a girl?" 
 
Hank thought of Raven. Even though she had been the one leading, she did say this was the usual position. "Yes, actually. This is the appropriate position for whoever you're dancing with." He just took into consideration that Alex mentioned how it'd be dancing with a

girl

. Hank doubted Alex had a hard time charming anyone to be with him, but he tried not to think of how that anyone would be him.

He is a young man and you're a big, furry beast

, he reminded himself. Raven would be slapping his face if she heard him think such a thing. 
 
"Hank?" Alex was looking at him with a questionable look. 
 
"Sorry about that." Hank cleared his throat, wishing he didn't zone out so much. He'd blame it on Alex, but that wasn't fair. "Now we're going to step to the right together. And then, we'll step to the left." 
 
Alex tilted his head to the right. "Isn't there spins and dips involved? That's what I've always seen." 
 
Hank chuckled. At least slow dancing wasn't completely unfamiliar to the blond. "Yes, but we'll work up to it." Raven said all the fun was when you spun or dipped your partner. Hank could see the delight in it as well as how comfortable your dancing partner would be with you. 
 
Alex seemed comfortable with him, yet Hank wouldn't do anything without letting him know first.

Very gentlemanly of you, Hank,

he could hear Charles saying those words if he were here. 
 
He moved to the right, Alex following his steps. The blond was a little late, but it was his first time, and it was all trial and error. When they moved to the left, Alex was on time with his steps. Hank felt Alex's grip on his shoulder tighten a bit as if to keep him balanced. He knew his face would be pink if it wasn't blue. Alex's grip had also gotten them even closer to each other than they already were. 
 
Hank moved the right again, Alex following him. And then to the left again. Each step, Alex met his. 
 
He looked past Alex's shoulder to not look directly at the blond. If he did, he felt he might melt when looking at those blue eyes. "You're doing excellent, Alex… Are you sure you've never done this before?" 
 
"First time." Alex confirmed. When they moved to the left, he said, "It's probably because I have a good teacher." 
 
Hank felt proud at that. Compliments of his work always made him delighted and even hearing Alex think he was good at teaching slow dancing was a compliment he happily accepted.

It's just dancing

, a voice said deep down. Then again, Alex wanted to do this and he was great at it. 
 
"What's next?" 
 
Hank realized they had been swaying to the left and right for about five minutes now and Alex had gotten the hang of it. He supposed now would be the time to introduce something else. 
 
"Well, there's always spinning and dipping your part–

dance partner

." Hank corrected himself. Raven's favorite part, as he recalled. "Spinning is way easier since–"
 
"You can't possibly drop me?" Alex asked with a small grin. 
 
Hank would rather fall to the ground himself than drop the blond. "I'd never let that happen," he promised. He forced himself to look at Alex finally, knowing it was essential to teaching him the next step. 
 
"So, this requires us moving our hands from where their positioned. You'll move your hands to meet mine, and I'll move mine to meet yours." Hank let Alex move his hands first so he could get comfortable with it first. Once Alex's hands started moving, he moved his. When their hands met, Hank stopped. "Now, we pull away from each other while holding hands," he instructed, taking a step back, watching Alex do the same. 
 
"And then?" Alex asked, standing still to wait for further instructions. 
 
"You take a step towards me and I'll use my left hand to spin you. Keep holding onto my left hand, and then you can let go of my right hand." Hank instructed without making a move. He wanted Alex to at least know beforehand. 
 
Alex hummed in deep thought like he was trying to figure out how that would look in his head. "Okay… I think I know what to do." 
 
"If it isn't perfect, that's fine. We can always try again and again." Hank wouldn't mind that. He caught Ophelia watching as she licked her right paw. The Persian cat likely found this rather entertaining.

Alex nodded and took a step forward. Like he said, Hank took his left hand and twirled the blond. They were even closer now. Once Alex was facing him again, Hank took his right hand to reconnect with Alex's left hand. 
 
"How was that?" Alex was breathing a little louder than before, but Hank imagined that could be because they are closer now. 
 
Hank nodded. "Wonderful." He looked down at his shoes. "Do you think you got it?"
 
"I think so." Alex said. 
 
Hank got the guts to look at Alex as they danced again. Those blue eyes that made him think of the hydrangeas drenched from the rain in his garden. The garden that Alex had been intrigued to learn about. Hank didn't know if he exactly saw Alex as a gardener type, but he had a curiosity glint to his eyes that showed that he was intrigued to learn things. He had been interested in heating about the meanings of the flowers. 
 
He almost thought of the idea of getting Alex a book on the meanings of flowers, yet that might be foolish. Hank would never be able to be subtle in ever giving the blond a flower since he'd know what message he was trying to convey. Yet, the idea seemed fun. 
 
Hank was delighted to see that Alex and be has gone further throughout the room, going left from right while swaying. He stopped to twirl the blond once more, yet he couldn't stop looking at those eyes. And he noticed those eyes weren't leaving his.

Would it be hard to imagine that he might be interested

? It was an exciting thought, however that's all it was. Once their hands were back to their original positions, Hank let out a small chuckle. "I think that does it for today. What do you think?" 
 
Hank didn't catch the small frown on Alex's face when he let go of his hand and back. The blond cleared his throat. "It was fun. You really are a great teacher, Hank," he said shyly, looking down at the floor. 
 
Hank believed Charles and Raven would have been impressed. "Thank you, Alex." He didn't know what else to say, until he thought of how Alex had been patient and a great student. "You were a lovely dance partner." Alex's face went crimson and he smiled at the compliment. 
 
Seeing the blond smile made his day better. He got to dance with Alex and it was enjoyable to the younger male. 
 
Alex enjoyed his company. Or was enjoying it, at least. Knowing that not only made him feel happier, but he also felt hopeful. Hopeful that maybe Alex might be interested. If not interested, than being fine with being here with him.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Tending to the garden was definitely less intimate than slow dancing, nonetheless Alex didn't hate it. He knew he preferred when Hank was at home than when he wasn't. He liked having Ophelia as company, but it was nice being with another person for company.  He had gotten used to the idea of being completely by himself, so the fact that a complete stranger that wasn't a serial killer was his companion now made him feel something he hasn't felt in some time.  Hank was a great person. He was a gentle, kind and patient man that anyone would be lucky to know. Alex knew that others might not have preferred Hank's company due to his mutation, which is no surprise since there was no way of escaping prejudiced humans. Those people would never be worth being in the company of if they disliked Hank for his mutation.  Thinking about Hank's mutation only made him think about his own. It was still something they had yet to discuss. Alex couldn't lie if he said that he didn't mind that the topic hadn't been brought up.  He needed to tell Hank. Although being familiar with how to harness his powers, he still didn't know how to use them, and Hank needed to know that. He was in his home after all. He wouldn't want to hurt him or Ophelia. If Hank decided to ask him to leave, he would without any hard feelings.  As nice as it is being around Hank and having them talk about things and be in each other's company, he wasn't going to stay somewhere where he wasn't wanted.  Alex eyed the bed of hydrangeas that Hank had compared to his eyes. He still had the one Hank had given him. He had stolen a jar from the kitchen and placed the lid on top of it during the day when Ophelia wandered all over the house. He didn't want her to grab it since Hank said the flower was poisonous.  He didn't want to think of the possibility of leaving a place he had gotten used to. Alex knew that he needed to let Hank know about his powers and that was more important. Even if Hank could want him gone, Alex knew it'd be for the best.     ~~~   Once Hank arrived home, Alex had started dinner and was waiting in the living room with Ophelia.  "I'm hoping she was good today?" Hank asked when he spotted Ophelia on the blond's lap.  Alex chuckled, stroking Ophelia's white fur. "She's always a good girl." When Hank set his stuff down, he felt now was the time to let him in about his mutation. "Hank… I need to tell you something." Alex had the urge to keep holding Ophelia, but he knew she would just distract him and he would be stalling on telling Hank about his mutation. He let her go, in which she decided to groom her paws.  Hank's eyes met his, giving him his undying attention. "What's wrong, Alex? Is everything okay?" Alex felt guilty making the blue mutant think that something wouldn't be okay. It was sweet to see the other man worried.  "Yeah, it's just… It's about my mutation," he said, his eyes glancing down at the floor.  "I hadn't asked, but I was thinking that conversation would come up at some point." Hank stated matter-of-factly, making Alex smirk. He definitely did talk like a scientist. "You can tell me, Alex."  He had told no one. His parents had no clue and he was planning to keep it that way. He didn't want to watch the scenarios in his head play out. At least with Hank, he could trust him since he happened to be a fellow mutant.  "I can generate cosmic energy from within my body." He can still remember when it happened. He was just minding his own business when some guy decided to mug him. He was lucky he was at the park when it first happened and there was no one there to witness it.  "Really?" Hank questioned with an interested glint in his eyes. He sensed there was that scientist mindset working in Hank's brain. Perhaps he was wondering how his mutation worked.  Alex nodded slowly. "I don't really have any control over it… It happened a week before you found me."  Hank was quiet for a moment, humming softly as he thought it over. "I'm assuming your family doesn't know?"  "They're not exactly supportive of mutants." Alex said, but he thought of Scott. He wondered what his younger brother thought now that he was gone. "I don't think they would've welcomed the news with open arms."  Hank sent him a sympathetic smile. "I'm sorry they wouldn't have, Alex. Not everyone has parents that would." He sat straighter in his seat. "Never mind that, though. I know a place where mutants are taught how to use their powers… "  I know a place where you can go, Alex finished in his mind. He tried not to feel bad about it. Where on earth was he supposed to even try and use his powers? Alex didn't want to possibly destroy Hank's house.  "You'll be safe there and the teachers there are wonderful. They'll be extremely helpful." Alex could hear the words coming out of Hank's mouth, but all he was retaining was that the man would feel better with him out of the house.  That's not entirely true. He's been kind since he met me. Alex couldn't ignore that Hank was also a kind man. He shouldn't feel hurt that Hank would prefer him being somewhere that could accommodate him and his abilities.  "Of course…" Alex gave Hank a small nod, feeling the urge to stand up from where he sat. "Just let me know when you want me gone," he said, rising up to head to his room.  Hank raised an eyebrow. "Gone?" Before Alex could leave the room, he felt a furry hand wrap around his wrist. He turned around to see Hank had gotten up from his seat too. "I don't exactly want you gone…"  "It's probably better that I'm not here, though." Alex ignored the fact that they once again had physical contact.  "You don't have to go if you don't want to." Alex noticed Hank was looking down at the ground like he was avoiding his eyes. He caught him doing the same when he was teaching him how to slow dance. "I just thought you might… feel more comfortable with other teens your age."  Alex hadn't even considered that. Yet, he wasn't exactly dying to hang out with people around his age. He didn't have a lot of friends back at school and he kept to himself most of the time. The only person he really missed was Scott, his only true best friend in the world. This school Hank wasn't talking about wouldn't have Scott, so he wouldn't be missing out on too much.  He couldn't help but think about the fact that Hank thought he'd be "more comfortable" not in the same house as he. There was nothing wrong with Hank. Sure, Alex was attracted to the other mutant, but he wasn't making that obvious. Not only that but Hank wasn't a creep or weird around him.  He was nice to be around. Alex liked being around Hank. "I don't mind living under the same roof as you, Hank."  Hank chuckled nervously. "I don't think many teens would want to. And I feel some people might question it."  "I don't care what other people think." He didn't need anyone telling him how dangerous his powers were, he knew that already. If someone thought it was weird of him for staying with Hank in his home, he'd happily flip off that person. Hank was a respectable mutant that has only been kind to him. Anyone would be lucky to be around Hank. "What do you think I should do?"  Hank sighed softly, quiet for a few minutes. Alex would have said something until the blue mutant beat him to it. "How about we check out the school? Maybe you'll change your mind?"  "If I don't?" Alex meant to keep that to himself.  "I'd rather you learn how to use your powers, but if you'd rather stay here, I'm fine with that too." Alex hoped he wasn't forcing Hank to say this. "I do enjoy your company, Alex, and I only want what's best for you."  Alex smiled softly at the other mutant, even though he wasn't looking at him. "Thank you, Hank." He frowned when Hank let go of his wrist. He left the room to go into his own.  He sat down at the edge of the bed and took a deep breath. When he heard a soft meow, he looked at the door to see Ophelia had followed him. When she jumped onto his bed, Alex grabbed her and held her close.  If he left, he'd definitely miss Hank and Ophelia. He let them become parts in his life that he knows he'd miss. Hopefully, he wouldn't have to miss them.