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Chapter One: Bar Talk
It was just after midnight and Remy Lebeau had just ordered another drink from the bar. His old friend and colleague Piotr Rasputin had just arrived. He looked happier than he had ever been in his life after having just returned from Russia with his family. After being held prisoners over a number of years Logan made good on his promise to help free them.Remy looked upon his old friend and knew that he was truly at peace. "So, Remy, at the bar as usual," Piotr said. His attempt at wit was surely lacking."It ain't de drinks I'm interested in," Remy said as the bartender set another beer in front of him."Then it is company you seek," Piotr said, sitting down next to him.Remy gave a chuckle. "Can I get a vodka for mon friend here?" Remy said. He was hiding the fact that he was truly lonely. He took a big gulp of his beer. "For some reason none a dese filles seem appealin' tonight.""Ah, my friend, perhaps it is one woman in particular you seek," Piotr said.Remy knew exactly who he was talking about, but he wasn't going to admit it. True, he slept with more women he could count, but none of them ever stuck in his mind. Most he couldn't even remember the names of, but there was one woman, one he never got the chance to even touch, and one who could never touch him, not physically anyway. It seemed ridiculous to him to be pining over a woman he could never have, but every woman he made contact with since, he would subconsciously compare to her. He was sorry to say that none of them came close."You don't know what you're talkin' 'bout," Remy said, finishing his drink. "Bartender, bring me another!""Alcohol won't make you forget her," Piotr said. Remy wondered if his old friend took training as a shrink, and even though he didn't want to admit it, Colossus was right, but what was he to do. Show up at her door with a bouquet of flowers admitting his undying love.Even if she did accept that, there was a certain clawed mutant who dawned himself as her protector. That same man almost killed him in New Orleans if she hadn't stepped in and stopped him. Damn, he was stupid that night. How could he have let her go? He should have begged her to stay with him, or gone back to Bayville with her. Either way he still could never have her."I've been invited to join the X-Men, and I'd like it very much if you would come along," Piotr said like it was the most natural thing in the world.Remy laughed at that. "What? To fight de good fight, not my style, mon ami." He thought for a moment. "Den again dare could be a few perks.""You can show her who you really are," Piotr said, which made Remy's head turn. Somehow his old friend knew exactly what was on his mind. "You are a good man, Remy LeBeau, and it's time you show the world.""At that moment Remy heard a familiar voice. He looked to his left to see his friend John sitting at the bar stool next to him. "Hey, Mates. So what's the story tonight?""Well, John, we losin' our homme tonight," Remy said. "Tin man he joinin' de X-Men.""I may not be the only one," Piotr said. "Will you at least think about what I said?""Yeah, sure," Remy said and Piotr stood up to leave."If you do make the right decision, meet me tomorrow at the coffee house at seven." Piotr walked off and out of the bar as Remy sat there nursing his drink. "So what was that all about, Mate?""You haven't heard, Tin man t'inks it's good idea for ole Remy t'join de X-Men."John was suddenly laughing hysterically. "Oh, mate, that's a good one, the infamous Gambit, a hero.""What so funny 'bout dat? Don' you t'ink Gambit can be a hero?" he said. "An' besides dem X-girls are tres belle.""Oh, I get it mate, but you're thinkin' of one in particular,” John said with a gleam in his eye. "Yeah, she's hot. I'd nail her in a second if…""Shut your filthy mouth," Remy shouted at him. He had a card in his hand. He must have fished it out on instinct."Yeah, yeah, mate, calm down. It was just a joke, and besides ole Pyro is strictly a one woman mutant now."Remy quickly uncharged the card and looked at his friend with intrigue. "Oh, yeah, never t'ought I'd see de day.""Well, it happened. Wanda and I are goin' domestic. We got a place in your building, a cozy little love nest.""Happy for you, mon ami," Remy said. He really started to think about what Piotr's suggestion would mean. It was a chance to prove himself, and prove himself to her. That was it. He had made his decision, not that there was even a question where Rogue was concerned.
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Chapter Two: Afraid to Touch
Earlier that same day…
Rogue again was having another one of her training sessions with Professor Xavier with Logan as her guinea pig, but that wasn't one hundred percent true because Logan had volunteered. Truth was he would do anything for Rogue. As always during these sessions she had closed her eyes and concentrated. She had learned different forms of meditation that helped in her endeavors to control her powers, and she had achieved some success, but her main problem was trust, more in herself than anyone around her.An hour had gone by as she held onto Logan's hand and still nothing. She had not absorbed him at all. This was a record for her. In the past the longest she had gone was just under twenty minutes before she felt the pull. Once she heard the ding of the old grandfather clock in Professor Xavier's office she knew it had been more than an hour. Suddenly she pulled away as her eyes shot open."Rogue, what are you feeling right now?" the professor asked her as if he didn't know."Ah’m still scared," she said. "But I didn't feel anything that time.""Then why did you pull away, Darlin’?" Logan asked her.She thought for a moment before answering. "Because I was afraid. I thought ah'd hurt ya if a held on any longer.""Logan," Professor Xavier said, looking over at his long-time friend. "Are you feeling any fatigue or weakness of any kind?""No, I'm just worried about Rogue,” he said. He tried to hold out a hand to her, but she just folded her arms. "You did good, kid. Don't you see that?""Ah know that in mah head, but…" She stopped, losing the words that were in the front of her mind just a moment ago."Rogue," Professor Xavier said wheeling his chair close to her. "Controlling your power is not just physical. It's psychological as well. Once you learn to trust yourself, then you will be able to completely control your powers.""That's what Emma said, ah know, but…" she started to said but stopped herself from finishing the thought. She looked over at the two men in front of her. They both had concerned looks on their faces. "Ah'm a little tired right now. Would it be okay to pick this up tomorrow?""Of course, Rogue," the professor said. She couldn't leave his office fast enough. She ran upstairs with her hands still hidden. She had forgotten her gloves in the professor's office, but she was not in the mood to go back and get them.She entered her room and plopped down on her bed. She uncovered her hands and just stared at them. She had lasted a whole hour without her powers kicking in. Now she wondered how much longer she could have lasted if she had not let her insecurities get in the way. She could touch, that much was certain, but still she couldn't trust herself enough not to hurt anyone.********************************************Rogue was lost in her own thoughts when Kitty came phasing through the door. Sometimes Rogue just wished Kitty would just walk into a room just like anyone else. There were a number of times Kitty accidentally walked in on her in the bathroom, but there was no way Rogue could stay mad at her. For all her faults Kitty was her best friend and was always loyal to her and wasn't afraid to get close to her. Kitty just treated her like any normal girl, and Rogue felt good about that. Of all the kids at the institute, Kitty was the only one who was never afraid to be around her."Hey, Rogue, how did your session go?" Kitty asked as she threw her school bag on her bed."Alright, ah guess," she said and picked up her book off the nightstand."Details please," Kitty said, getting up from her bed and walking over to Rogue's bed. "Last time you said you lasted almost twenty minutes. So was it like longer this time?""Yeah, it was, okay," Rogue snapped at her looking annoyed. Then she looked up to see the hurt look in her best friend's eyes. "Look, Kitty, ah'm sorry, but ah just don't feel like talkin' about it.""Okay, so I'm going to get a snack," Kitty said rubbing her growling stomach. "Can I bring you something?"***************************************"Naw! Ah'm fine," she said, but in a way she wasn't. All this time and it finally seemed like she was getting a handle on her powers, so why was she so afraid of it now. She knew the professor was right about one thing. It wasn't just physical. It was psychological.Kitty entered the kitchen with her stomach growling more than ever. She was in need of a roast beef sandwich and whatever junk food she could find, and even as hungry as she was, she was still concerned about Rogue. She feared that her sessions weren't going well, and Rogue wanted nothing more than to be able to touch without the fear of killing someone.Kitty admitted to herself that even she was a little fearful at first to be around Rogue, but once Rogue joined the X-Men and they became roommates they bonded over time. On the spectrum they were a 180 from each other, and anyone who didn't know them wouldn't believe that they were best friends. It had just turned out that way. Kitty truly believed that it was because they were so different. She was pretty much a girly-girl and loved shopping for clothes and trolling the mall for boys. It was not Rogue's thing at all.She was much more content hanging out at the gym working out. Rogue helped Kitty to toughen up and be more assertive, especially during training and battles, and Kitty was able to help Rogue nurture her more feminine side. It still stunned her that they were best friends, but Kitty realized just how much when she started dating Lance. Everyone else was against it, but Rogue gave Kitty her full support. Even when Kitty and Lance broke up, Rogue never pulled an 'I told you so.' They just had a good cry together.Now it seemed that Rogue needed her support, and she was willing to give it. She just hoped Rogue was willing to take it. After Kitty had gotten her snack, she was going to go lay out by the pool and relax, but just as she left out of the back door to the kitchen she heard familiar voices, that of Logan and the Professor. She knew eavesdropping was wrong but she just couldn't resist and held her ear to the door."I'm worried, Charles," Logan said. Kitty could hear the crack from a beverage can. It could have been a soda, but knowing Logan it was more than likely a beer. "Somethin' is goin' on with Stripes.""Yes, you are indeed correct, Logan," Charles said as Kitty heard the soft hum of his wheelchair. "I do believe she has a handle on her powers, but she is letting her fear overtake her progress.""That ain't good, not for Rogue anyway," Logan said and Kitty could hear him gulp down the drink. Normally she would have just phased her head through the door to get a better view of what was going on, but she didn't want to be seen. The two men probably already knew she was somewhere nearby with Logan’s heightened senses and the Professor's mind reading abilities, but as long as they weren't calling her out on anything she would remain in stealth mode."Yes, I know, but you also know we can't push her," Charles said. "I believe she will learn to trust herself more as time goes on. This is new territory for her and remember that she hasn't been able to touch without fear for years. It will be an adjustment.""I have to agree with you there," Logan said and Kitty heard another pop of a can. "Doesn't mean I'm less worried about the kid.""I would expect no less of you, especially about your star pupil," Charles said.It cracked a chuckle from Logan. It wasn't often that Charles Xavier made jokes. The best one Kitty remembered is the time the Professor fixed Kurt's holowatch to make him look like a girl. He would never be able to live that one down, especially when Kitty let it slip to his girlfriend Amanda. It was the one and only time Kitty remembers the Professor playing a practical joke."I just don't like seeing the kid suffer like that," Logan said. She heard him gulp down another drink."And with our new recruits coming tomorrow," Charles said"I thought we only had one," Logan said."Yes, well, Mister Rasputin has recommended that we give our old friend Gambit a trial run.""No way, Charles, that guy is bad news, and I don't want him anywhere near…""It may be good for her," Charles said. It seemed he was the only one who could reason with Logan. "You may not know it, but he and Rogue did form a bond during their time in New Orleans.""He kidnapped her," Logan said, trying to reason with Charles."Perhaps it started out that way, but it ended very different," Charles said. "Rogue hasn't spoken of it, but I sense that she has certain feelings for Mister LeBeau.""Well, he just better keep his hands off her," Logan said as Kitty heard his claws come out. "Or he won't have hands."Kitty had a look of excitement about her face and she sneaked away from the door and walked out to the pool area. She was so excited now. Her best friend was about to get the surprise of her life.
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Chapter Three: The New Recruits
Remy woke up the next morning with a bit of a hangover. He could take alcohol better than the average guy, but he still had a dull pounding in his head. It was 6:15 in the morning and he remembered what Piotr had said to him the night before. Thank goodness he wanted to meet in the coffee house. That's what he needed on a morning like this, some strong black coffee.He staggered out of bed and took a quick shower. After his shower he put on his black jeans and black t-shirt that left little to the imagination. He was most likely to see a certain femme today and he wanted to give her something to look at. He wondered if she had changed much from the last time he saw her. Perhaps she filled out a little more, not that her body wasn't perfect from what he remembered, but more importantly he liked her spirit.Sure he had kidnapped her, but she didn't take it lying down. She fought him every step of the way. Nothing got by his little Goth Goddess and he was anxious to see her again. He combed his hair back into a pony-tail and put on his leather jacket. He picked up his sunglasses off the dresser and dumped a handful of playing cards into his pocket. Destiny was calling and it was just fine with him if it was the sweet southern drawl of his beautiful Goth Goddess.As he locked up his apartment and looked down the hall and noticed something peculiar. It was his old friend Pyro in the lip lock with that insatiable Scarlet Witch. Well, what do you know? He thought. Flame boy was telling to truth… for once."Well, Well, Homme, dis looks cozy," Remy said giving his old friend Pyro a look of satisfaction. Once Wanda realized that they had an audience she pushed Pyro away from her."John, I told you we should have waited until we got into the apartment," she said as she unlocked the door."Oh, come now, love," he said. "You know I can't resist those luscious lips." She just gave him a scowl that made Remy laugh."So, it's true," Remy said, leaning in the doorway as John entered the apartment after his girlfriend. "You two are livin' t'gether?""As of today," Wanda said as she looked around the room that had a few pieces of furniture and several cardboard boxes thrown around. "But I'm seriously reconsidering.""Come now, love, don't be like that," John said and snaked his arms around her waist and nibbled on her neck. A high-pitched squeal came out of her. Remy couldn't think of any other man who could make her do that. Must be love, he thought."I'll see you two later," he said and walked down the hall to the elevator. He was in search of his own romantic pursuits, and when he wanted something especially a woman, he always got it.Before long, Remy LeBeau was off on his motorcycle. His slight detour at John and Wanda's only put him a little behind schedule. He sent Piotr a text that he was on his way, so he knew his old friend would wait. Coming down the street he could already smell that sweet scent of coffee coming from the local coffee house waiting to be consumed. He parked his bike in front and could see his old friend through the window. He was sitting at the corner table already sipping a cup.He parked his bike in front of the coffee house and soon entered. He quickly approached Piotr's table and sat down. "I knew you would be here soon, my friend," Piotr said."Did you doubt it?" Remy asked as the waitress approached."Well, hello there, handsome," the blonde waitress said with a smile. She wore a 1950's style waitress’s uniform with her hair in a high ponytail. "It's not very often we get two gorgeous guys in here this early in the morning. So what can I get you?" As she asked the question she batted her eyes at Remy."Coffee… black," Remy said and sat back in the booth."Whatever your pleasure," she said as she turned, giving Remy a clear view of her ass. If he didn't have someone else on his mind he wouldn't have minded a hook up with her. She looked down at Piotr's empty cup. "Can I get you a refill?""Yes, please, thank you," he said."So, polite," she said and attempted to flirt with him too, but Piotr took no notice. He had other things on his mind as well."So, what were we talking about before?" Piotr started again. "I gave a call to Xavier and spoke about you.""Let me guess," Remy said rolling his eyes. "No way in hell.""On the contrary, my friend, Professor Xavier wants to welcome you.""And Claws?" Remy asked still not convinced."If you are referring to Logan I do not know," Piotr said as the waitress came back with two more coffees."You're the black coffee, straight up, and you're the cream and sugar man," she said placing the coffees in front of the right patrons. "Now, if you gentleman need anything else don't hesitate," she said, putting a special emphasis on the word gentlemen. She sauntered off behind the counter but still keeping her eye on them."She likes you," Piotr said and took a sip of her second cup."Naw, that femme, she likes de Tin Man," Remy said and took a sip of his coffee as they both chuckled at the girl's antics. He needed the coffee even more so this morning. Had he known he would be joining the X-Men today, he wouldn't have gone out drinking last night.After nursing their coffees for the better of a half hour they both figured it was time to go. Piotr seemed excited about the prospect of joining the X-Men, while Remy was a bit nervous. He had made enemies with basically the entire lot of them in one way or another, and it was going to take a lot to prove himself to them. He really didn't care what any of them thought of him except for one. If it wasn't for her he highly doubted that he would be making this move.Remy got on his bike while Piotr opted to take his car. Colossus wasn't really a motorcycle guy. He'd rather take a nice leisurely drive in a nice comfortable car. Neither of them needed any directions to the Institute. Both had known where it was, and Gambit even spent a few nights in and around the property. At first he was just there for kicks, but then it had been to just catch a glimpse of Rogue, but he never seemed to catch her alone. She was always with one of the girls or training with Logan.That man he was sure was going to be a problem when it came to Rogue, but he was determined to spend as much time with her as possible.
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Back at the Institute the Professor called certain members of the team in for a meeting. Since Kurt and some of the younger kids were off on a field trip with Beast at a local museum, it left only Storm, Scott, Jean, Kitty and Rogue… and of course Logan. Rogue figured it was another boring debriefing. Since graduating from high school she had become an instructor. Her class was self-defense. It was the perfect job for her with all her training with Logan. He trusted her to teach the younger ones just as well as he taught her."So, Professor, what is this about?" Jean asked as she sat down next to Scott."Very simple, Jean," Professor Xavier said. "I called you all down here to welcome two new recruits who should be arriving shortly." There was a sound from the intercom signifying that someone was at the gate. "Yes, they are here. Storm, if you please.""Certainly, Professor," Storm said and walked out of the office leaving the door opened. They all waited in anticipation. Scott and Jean looked confused. Kitty looked excited, while Rogue was just plain bored. Logan was indifferent and Rogue figured he knew already who the new recruits were.She stood in the corner looking impatiently at the clock wanting this whole scene to end soon. She wasn't paying much attention when Storm returned with their new recruits. That is until Professor Xavier spoke."Please welcome Piotr Rasputin and Remy LeBeau," Professor Xavier said.Rogue looked up in shock. No, she thought. It couldn't be, but that tall dark figure took off the glasses he was wearing to reveal those red on black eyes. There was no doubt it was Gambit."Isn't this great," Kitty said excitedly and grabbed her best friend by the shoulders, but Rogue was so stunned she couldn't speak.Gambit… here? He was going to live here, with her. Oh, God, she thought. Why me?
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Chapter Four: Settling In
"Rogue, Kitty," Professor Xavier said. "I would be pleased if you would show our new recruits to the guest rooms.""Like sure," Kitty said heading straight for Piotr. He took her hand as she led the way. Rogue was still so stunned that she just stood there."Rogue," the professor called out. "Rogue?""What?" she questioned. Suddenly she came back to earth. "Oh, yeah, Professor."She looked up to see Remy staring at her. She suddenly became uneasy as she very slowly approached him. He was about to hold out his hand, but Logan stopped him."Hey, Gumbo, just awarning," Logan said staring him down. "You keep your hands to yourself.""Whatever you say, Mon ami," he said and reached out for Rogue's hand. She just walked passed him with a scowl on her face. "This way, Swamp Rat."Logan had a smiled of satisfaction on his face. "Good girl," he said quietly.As Rogue walked down the hallway she had a feeling that Gambit wasn't following her. Why did she have to play welcome wagon, especially to that annoying, conceited low life like Remy Lebeau? How she loved that name. It was the rest of him that sent her into a fury. She turned back and saw that he was hanging in the corridor shuffling his cards and staring at her from the corner of his eye."Are ya comin'?" she asked."Sure, chere," he said approaching her slowly. "Lead de way."She grabbed his hand without thinking and dragged him down the hall to one of the guest rooms. She heard Kitty's voice coming from the room that she guessed she gave to Piotr. She was laughing at something, although she couldn't hear the conversation. Leave it to Kitty to get the nice accommodating one, while she was stuck with the annoying overbearing one."Ah guess you can stay in this room," Rogue said and opened the door for him. She stood in the hall while he stepped inside."It's nice," he said in his deep Cajun voice. It was a nice spacious room with a full bed, dresser and another door that he supposed led to a closet. Suddenly she felt her palms sweating and her knees shaking. She couldn't move. She just stood there in the doorway. He noticed it and came over to her. "Come on in.""No, ah don't think so," she said, but before she could react Remy took her hands and led her inside. She felt like a glob of clay and he was the artist molding her into what he wanted her to be. Even though her hands were gloved she didn't want him touching her and snatched her hands away."Hey, what's de matter?" Remy asked and took back one of her hands. This time she didn't take it back as he brought it up to his lips and kissed it. She could feel his warmth and wondered what it would be like to touch his skin. "Beautiful femmes like you should be kissed and often." His other hand made its way up to her face, but she jerked away before he could touch her.He let go of her hand as she slowly backed up into the doorway. "Ah gotta go," she said with a trembling voice."Later den, chere," he said and gave her a quick bow.She just rolled her eyes at his overblown gesture. "Lunch is at noon," she said and sprinted down the hall. Remy just laughed as he stood in the doorway. Yes, he had definitely made the right decision coming here.He peeked down the hallway in the hopes that she might come back, but there was no sign of her, but he could hear his friend conversing with that petite little X-girl. If he remembered she was Rogue’s best friend. He could definitely use her as an ally. He walked down the hall to Piotr's room to see that girl sitting on his bed. She was talking, but he didn't hear a word she was saying."So, Tin Man, Remy see you do have a way with de ladies," Remy said teasingly while standing in the doorway.Suddenly, Piotr became sheepish and stood up and moved away from Kitty like they had just gotten caught doing something questionable. "Hi, Gambit," she said. "Pete was just offering to draw my picture. Isn't that sweet?"Kitty threw Piotr a smile while Remy just grinned. "Well, well, de big man waste no time," Remy said as he walked into the room. "An' Chaton, it's Remy."Kitty just giggled at the name he called her. "Okay, Remy," she said. "And Pete, tomorrow afternoon, okay?""Yes, that would be fine," he said."See you then," she said and ran down the hall.Remy watched as the enthusiastic girl ran like lightening. Then he saw her go through a wall and disappear. "Well, well, my friend, nice work.""What do you mean?" Piotr said."I never heard anyone call you Pete before," Remy said with a laugh. "Dat girl already got a pet name for you.""Not like that at all," Piotr said defensively. "Miss Pryde, she could not pronounce my name so that is what she calls me.""Oh, come on, drawin' her picture. Dat just an excuse. You like dat little Chaton." Piotr blushed at Remy’s words. It's true he was shy around women, but Kitty seemed to make him more relaxed. "Come on and admit it.""Yes, I do, but…""But not'ing, my friend," Remy said. "Girl like dat jus' what you need.""And Miss Rogue?" Piotr asked."Gonna be a challenge, but Remy like a challenge," he said and gave his friend a playful punch in the arm. "I'll see you later, my friend.""Yes, Remy, soon it will be time to eat." Remy made it back to his own room and made a point of settling in. Lunch time was upon them, and he wanted to look good for Rogue.Rogue had walked back to her room soon after leaving Remy in his room. She couldn't believe how close he came to actually touching her. The truth was is that she wanted him to, but something inside her was not allowing that to happen. She reasoned that it had something to do with him and not her, but then again she was still hiding the fact that she did have a handle on her powers, so why not make the big announcement. Why not stop hiding behind all her layers of clothing and take a chance? What was she afraid of? She wondered. She knew what it was, even if she couldn't admit it to herself. She was afraid of getting hurt. After what she went through with Mystique she was simply afraid of getting close to anyone. No one truly understood how badly Mystique hurt her. The woman was her mother after all, and mothers weren't supposed to treat her children like bargaining chips, using them and their so-called gifts to gain power for herself. For her it was just better to keep the world at a distance.She sat on her bed and took out the latest novel she was reading. It was another romance novel, one that Kitty had bought her for Christmas. It was already summer and she had just got around to reading it. She would rather lose herself in her books then have to deal with anything in her real life. Facing villains was easy, just kick ass and then go home, but friends and her adopted family, that was much more difficult.She opened the book and was going to go right to reading but then she remembered what she was using as a bookmark. It was the Queen of Hearts, the card Remy gave her down in New Orleans during that bad business with his father. Why did she still have that thing? She couldn't understand it, but for some reason she couldn't bring herself to throw it away.She set it down on her nightstand and tried to concentrate on her book, but Kitty came phasing through the door at lightning speed. Her roommate and best friend paid her no attention. She just headed straight for her closet and rifled through the many clothes she had hanging up. Kitty pulled down several outfits which confused Rogue. Kitty didn't usually have a fashion crisis this early in the day."Kitty, what are ya doin'?" Rogue asked as she put her book down on her bed. She set it face down so she didn't lose her place."Looking for the perfect outfit," Kitty said."For what?" Rogue asked."For tomorrow," she said excitedly. "Pete is drawing my picture, and I have to look perfect.""Pete?" Rogue questioned. She knew who she was talking about, but she didn't ever remember anyone calling him that before, not that she knew the Russian mutant all that well. "He offered to draw my picture. Oh, he is so sweet."Rogue just rolled her eyes. "Well, ah hope he don't want to draw you in the buff," Rogue said, walking back over to her bed and sitting down."Actually, I suggested that, and he got all tongued tied and nervous," Kitty said with a laugh. "He was so cute.""Oh, god, Kitty, don't tell me you got another crush," Rogue said, lying flat on her back and staring up at the ceiling."Oh, come on, Rogue," Kitty said with a smile. "He is so hot. How can anyone not like him, and besides…" She put down the outfit she was holding and walked over to Rogue's nightstand. She saw the card lying out in the open and picked it up. "I'm not the only one with a…" She stopped for a minute and cleared her throat. "Crush."She waved the card in the air as Rogue jumped up and attempted to snatch it away from her. "Kitty, give that back," she demanded."No, way," she said and hid it behind her back. "Not until you admit it. You like Remy.""Ah will not," she said. "The guy is conceited and annoying and ah hate him."Kitty waved the card in front of Rogue and she finally had a chance to take back the card. "No, you don't, Rogue," Kitty said, pointing out what she already knew in her heart. "I saw the way you were looking at him in the Professor's office. You want him so bad…""Shut up!" Rogue shouted, but she didn't flat out deny it. "Ah don't want anybody… can't have anybody.""That's not true," Kitty said and looked over at the clock. "Hey, it's lunch time. We better get downstairs before the boys hog all the good stuff.""Ah ain't hungry," Rogue said. "You go on. Ah'll just sit up here and get caught up on my readin'.""Well, okay," Kitty said. "I'll bring you some tasty leftovers… if there is any.""Sure," Rogue said, picking up her book once again. Kitty noticed she was still holding that card.She gave her one last look before phasing through the door and leaving Rogue alone with her own thoughts.
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Chapter Five: Kitty, the Matchmaker
Kitty had just come down the stairs just as everyone was sitting down. Piotr had saved her a seat next to him. Remy had looked up when she sat down. He was dressed casually but nicely and his hair was combed back but loose. Piotr pulled out her chair for her which made her giggle. He really was a sweet guy, but she knew that from the very beginning. He was quiet and shy, and to her that was very appealing. He was nothing like Lance. She felt like he respected her as a person, when Lance treated her at times like a possession.She now wondered what she ever saw in that Brotherhood reject. Kitty had a feeling this guy was a keeper. Now, she just wondered who would make the first move, her or him. By how shy he was she suspected that it would be her.Logan had finally come into the dining room. Kitty noticed he did his routine scan of the area. He had on a sour look on his face when he glanced at Gambit and didn't see someone he knew should be present. He looked right at Kitty, and she knew exactly what was coming."Where's Rogue?" he asked."Oh," Kitty said hesitantly. "Rogue wasn't hungry.""Are you sure?" Logan asked."That's what she said," Kitty said and noticing the look on Logan’s face, it was like he didn’t quite believe her. "She's up in our room reading.""Alright," Logan said as he sat down. He looked like he was still skeptical of Kitty's explanation but accepted it. "She probably lost her appetite," he added as he looked straight at Gambit. Kitty tried not to laugh at his statement, but by the disapproving glance he shot her she realized that she was unsuccessful.Remy tried to give him a sly smirk, but Kitty could tell he was not happy that Rogue had not come down for lunch. Well, Kitty thought to herself, she was just going to have to give Rogue a little push in the right direction, whether she liked it or not.After lunch Kitty was going to go fix Rogue a plate. No matter what she said she knew that Rogue would be hungry. She was in the kitchen rifling through the leftovers when someone entered through the door."Well, not much was leftover from lunch, and Rogue hates my cooking," Kitty mumbled to herself as she had her face in the refrigerator. "I could just order a pizza or get some take out from that new chicken place she likes so much.""Dare a problem, Chaton," came a deep Cajun voice. Kitty was so startled she screamed. She looked up from the refrigerator door to see a familiar face."Gambit, don't scare me like that," Kitty scolded him."I told you, it's Remy," he said and leaned on the counter."Fine, Remy," she said sarcastically. "I'm looking for some juicy leftovers for Rogue, but there isn't much left, not anything that I'd dare give her.""Ah, yes, de Chere missed lunch," he said. "Remy fix dat.""Good luck," Kitty said. "I'd like cook to something, but the last time I did that Rogue threatened to kill me.""Dat bad, huh," Remy said as he checked out the kitchen. There were some vegetables and a package of unopened boneless chicken in the refrigerator. "Dis'll do.""You're not like actually going to cook, are you?" Kitty asked turning up an eyebrow at him."Why not? De Chere need t'eat, and Remy more den happy to make a fine meal.""Alright, it's you're funeral," Kitty said as she was about to leave the kitchen. "Oh, and Remy, like by the way, our room is at the top of the stairs, down the first hall, second door on the right.""T'anks, Chaton," Remy said and gave her a wink.Kitty left the kitchen with a look a satisfaction on her face. "My work here is done."After Remy was done fixing a late lunch for Rogue he followed Kitty's instructions to her room. He knocked on the door once but got no answer. Perhaps she went out, he thought, or maybe she was just being stubborn. He took out a pin from his pocket to the picked the lock. Sure, he could have blown off the doorknob with his power, but there was no need getting her mad at him when he only came bearing food.He opened the door to see Rogue lying on her stomach with her feet in the air. "Good afternoon, Chere," he said.Rogue suddenly turned at his voice looking stunned to see him carrying a tray of food. "What the hell are ya doin' in my room?"She jumped off the bed abandoning her book and positioning herself into a fighting stance. "Come on, Chere, Remy jus' bring some good food since you missed lunch.""Well, why did ya break inta my room?" she asked. It wasn't completely irrational of her to demand an explanation, but Remy was quick with a response."I knocked, but nobody answered," he said. "Jus' wanna make sure ya alright. Dat's all.""Well, ah never asked ya to,” she said being defensive. Then she stopped at the scent coming off the tray he held in his hand. “Well… what's that smell?" she asked."Spicy chicken and vegetables," he said and presented the tray of food to her. "Remy made it himself.""Really," she said skeptically. "You cooked this." She pointed down at the plate."Sure, Remy's Tante taught him all about cookin'," he said. "Now, you sit right down an' eat. Remy knows you're hungry.""Well, maybe just a little," she said and sat down on her bed. He sat down next to her which made her a little nervous. "Ya don't have t’stay.""Remy want t’stay," he said as he placed the tray on her bed. "Unless you don't want Remy t'stay.""Ah don't mind either way," she said."Den Remy stay," he said and looked deeply into her eyes. Suddenly his hand was on hers. She flinched for a second but then relaxed."This looks so good," she said and gave him a small smile. He liked seeing her smile. She took a bite of the chicken and closed her eyes and moaned softly."Not too spicy?" he asked."No, ah like it spicy," she said with a small smile. "No one else around here does." She took another bite and washed it down with a tall glass of orange juice he brought her. Before long she had finished off the meal. "That was really good.""Glad you like it, Chere," he said taking the tray away and setting it on her nightstand."Thanks for lunch," she said quietly. She remembered her abandoned book and picked it up."So whatcha readin'?" Remy asked."Just a book," she said and tried to hide the title, but he could clearly see what kind of book it was."Not jus’ a book," he said and managed to snatch it out of her hand. "A romance.""Gambit, give it back," she said but he kept it out of her reach."It's Remy, Chere," he said, "an why you need t’read about romance. You could have it if you want it." He was staring intensely into her eyes again. She wanted nothing more than to escape his gaze."No, ah can't," she said. "Now give me back my book."He was about to hand it back to her when something fell out of it. It landed on the floor. He picked it up and examined it. "What's dis?" he asked.Rogue looked away to hide her blush. She knew he knew exactly what it was. "It's nothing," she said."Queen a hearts," he said and touched her shoulder. She felt a chill go up her spine."Yeah, so," she said and looked back over at him. He was smiling at her. Not a smug sly smile but a real genuine smile. "You kept it."She got up off the bed and walked across the room. He stretched out on her bed still holding the card. "Ah just use it as a bookmark.""But you kept it." He stated the fact which she couldn't deny."Yeah, ah did," she said and then she looked back and saw him making himself comfortable. "Cajun, what do you think you're doin'?" He tried to look innocent but she ran back over to her bed. "Get off a my bed, right now.""Make me," he said and she grabbed his arm and tried to pull him off. He was too strong and pulled her down on top of him. "Remy like dis position."Even though she was on top of him he had his arms around her which made it difficult to move, not that she wanted to. She just stayed there frozen for a few moments. She felt his lips come close to hers, but she pulled back right before they could touch."Can't do that," she said and moved away from him. She sat on the corner of her bed shaking."What's de matter, Chere?" he asked and put his arms around her."Nothing," she said. "Ah'm okay." She got up off the bed and even though she was still shaking she turned to him. "Ah think ah need some time alone, so…"He got up off the bed and came towards her. "Alright, but if you need Remy you know where to find him." He picked up the tray he brought in with the lunch he had made her.She nodded in agreement before he left her room. Her heart was still racing as she lay down on her bed. Now, it smelled like him, cigars and old spice. Any other time she would have turned her nose up at the smell but this was Remy. God, she wanted to hate him, and she did. The real reason she did was because he made her feel things she never felt before, and it scared the hell out of her.
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Chapter Six: Breakfast, Anyone?
The next day dawned sooner than Remy had hoped and was up half the night trying to come up with a plan to woo Rogue. She was a tough one, but he loved a challenge. They had connected a year ago and he wasn't able to get her out of his head, and he knew it was the same for her. The fact that she had kept the playing card proved it. She tried to play it off like it was no big deal, but she wouldn't have voiced it had it not.So he had a plan to impress her and the entire X-Men clan, something to show them that he was more than a lowly ex-thief and ex-lackey of Magneto. He forced himself out of bed and put on his battle uniform. He would get in a light breakfast before heading down for his first danger room session. Logan was heading it and even though he had no desire to impress the man, he was important to Rogue, much like a father, and keeping the father happy would make his pending relationship with her that much easier.After a quick shower he changed and was ready to go. Piotr met him in the hallway. He looked nervous as they both made it to the kitchen. "So why you so nervous?" Remy asked. "We just goin' for trainin'. No big deal.""Not training, Remy," Piotr said as they reached the kitchen. He wouldn't say much more than that, but Remy could guess the reason for his behavior."Oh, it's Chaton." He gave a little chuckle as he looked in the refrigerator for the ingredients he needed. "Tin man shouldn't be nervous over de kitten. Jus' relax and let nature take its course.""Is that what you plan to do?" Piotr asked him as he put on a pot of coffee."Wid Rogue it's more complicated," he said. "Got to get her to trust me an' herself, but for you it much easier. Kitty Kat, she already likes you, so you half way dere, my friend."At that moment two chattering girls walked into the kitchen. "Rogue, I'm telling you that you need a new look," Kitty insisted. "I'm just saying we should go to the mall and pick out some cute things for you to wear. It would be like so much fun." Rogue just rolled her eyes at what Kitty considered fun. "Just think of it as a mini makeover.""Kitty, ah'm tellin' ya that ah don't need a makeover," Rogue insisted."'Course she don'," Remy spoke up which startled Rogue a bit. He walked over to her and before she could protest he took both of her gloved hands and kissed them. "She's jus' perfect de way she is."Kitty just sighed at the gesture which made Piotr smile. Remy was certainly a romantic, but Kitty had warmed up to the strong silent type. He was so handsome sitting there at the kitchen table drinking his coffee and pretending that he didn't see her."So about the shopping?" Kitty questioned."You should go," Remy said which made Rogue turned towards him giving him a confused look. Rogue stood there with her hands on her hips not believing what he just said. "Buy somet'ing sexy, somet'ing red and lacy maybe.""So now you two are conspiring against me," she said sounding defensive. "There ain't no point 'cause no one would care." She stormed out of the kitchen."Rogue, wait!" Kitty called out. "I didn't mean to make her mad. I should go after her.""No, Kitty," Piotr said and rose to his feet. "I'll do it."Rogue raced down the hall until she heard a voice calling her. She turned around to see that it was Piotr. He easily caught up with her and she just folded her arms over and rolled her eyes."Did Kitty send you to come after me, or was it your friend?" Rogue asked accusingly."I volunteered," he said in a calm and rational voice. It was a good thing, because if it had been either Kitty or Remy she would have gone off on them. "Rogue, why are you so upset?""Ah don't know," she said and let out a breath. "Kitty can just get on my nerves sometimes, but ah guess she means well.""Yes, she does," Piotr said. "She is your friend, right?""Yeah," Rogue said hanging her head low. Now she felt guilty about the way she talked to Kitty."And friends should not fight," he said as she looked up.She hesitated for a moment as he gave her a small smile for encouragement. "Okay, you're right.""Then let us go?" Piotr asked holding out his hand."Alright, fine," she said and stumped back towards the kitchen. She refused to take his hand. She felt foolish enough about the stupid fight.Piotr had a smile on his face. He could see now the reason Kitty and Rogue were friends.
Note:
This scene takes place at the same time as the last one.
Kitty was left in the kitchen alone with Remy, who went back to his cooking. He trusted that his friend would be able to bring her back, and when he did he would have breakfast ready."I can't believe Rogue acted that way," Kitty said and walked over to the counter and opened a box of doughnuts. She picked one up and took a bite with her mouth half full she started talking again. "I mean like her training with the professor is going so well." She swallowed down the little bit of doughnut left in her mouth before finishing her thought. "Last time she said it lasted a whole hour.""What are you saying, Chaton?" Remy asked as he flipped the sausage."Only that Rogue is working with the professor to learn to control her powers," Kitty said it like it was the most natural thing in the world.Remy perked up at this news. "Den you're saying dat Rogue can control her power?""Yeah, at least partly, but she's still afraid to have anyone touch her," Kitty said which made a smile come to Remy's face. This was welcome news to him. He wished nothing more than to be able to touch his little Goth Goddess, but if she was still afraid he would have to take steps to quell her fears."Don't worry, Chaton, Remy take care of everyt’ing," he said, but Kitty didn't know exactly what that meant, but when it came to Gambit anything could happen. Rogue came back in the kitchen just then with Piotr and looked over at her best friend. "Kitty, ah'm sorry," she said looking remorseful. "We shouldn't be arguin' about shoppin'.""Well, it's just that you've been like down in the dumps lately, and I just thought it might cheer you up." It was true. Rogue had been a bit depressed, and this was just Kitty's way of showing she cared."Okay, ah'll go, but ah ain't gettin' anything pink and frilly," she said, laying down the law. She pointed a finger at her friend so Kitty knew she meant business. "Get it?""Got it," Kitty said and gave her a solute.Rogue had to laugh at Kitty's antics. She watched her best friend as she sat down next to the large handsome Russian and understood why Kitty liked him. He really was a sweetheart as was Kitty, but in many ways they were opposites That just made things interesting. Rogue looked over at Remy who was still cooking. She walked over to him as that heavenly smell had captured her senses."So what are ya cookin', Cajun?" she asked."Jus' breakfast," he said and flipped some sausage."Can ah help?" she asked as she came up behind him."Naw, Remy got it handled," he said as he continued preparing the meal. "Chere, you jus' go sit down an' Remy'll bring you a plate.""Well, okay," she said and walked over towards the table. She hadn't really had any down home cooking in a long time, except for that spicy chicken he made her yesterday.She poured herself a glass of orange juice and sat down at the table but was then subjected to watching Kitty fawn all over Piotr and him trying not to even look at her. They were an odd couple, and if she had seen this display on television or the movies she would have been ill. For Kitty it was just perfect.She still couldn't help but roll her eyes. Within a few minutes Remy brought her a plate of food as promised. "Hey, where's ours?" Kitty asked seeing Remy pay so much attention to Rogue. It was nice, but she wasn't the only one that was hungry."It's comin'," Remy said slowly walking back over to the counter. "Remy jus' got to take care of his chere.""What?" Rogue shot up. "Ah ain't your anything, especially not that.""Not yet," Kitty whispered in a sing song voice and gave a laugh.Rogue obvious heard her and picked up a piece of sausage and was ready to throw it at her, but Piotr spoke up before she could do it. "Now, ladies, that is not good manners," he said.Rogue rolled her eyes and put down the sausage just as Remy came back with two more plates. He sat one down in front of Piotr and one in front of Kitty."Great," Rogue said rolling her eyes. "Now, she has ammunition.""Hey, I'm not that childish,” Kitty said while cutting her sausage. “I'll just wait and kick your butt in the danger room.""You wish," Rogue said and started in on her food."You girls on for t'is mornin' too?" Remy asked as he got his plate and sat down next to Rogue."Yeah," Rogue said cutting into her sausage. "So get prepared for a thrashing.""Wid you, anytime," Remy said and moved closer to her.She tried to scoot away, but there wasn't a lot of room to maneuver at the round kitchen table. Being so close to him was making her palms sweat, and she had to admit she was having little fantasies about him as they were sitting there. The only thing she was grateful for was that Kitty and Piotr were sitting next to them. She could just imagine the moves he would be making on her if they were alone.Kitty looked up at the clock. "Hey, we better hurry. If we're late Logan will give us one of his 'special' sessions."Rogue made an ugly face and groaned. "What is a special session?" Piotr asked."Like you don't want to know," Kitty said and stood up. Piotr was bold enough to take her hand, and Kitty suddenly wore a big smile as they walked out of the kitchen together. Rogue cleared the table and put the dishes in the sink. She didn't have time to wash them, because it would have made them late, and after the last one of Logan's "special" sessions she couldn't move for two days. She would get to them after training.She walked over to the door of the kitchen and realized Remy was waiting for her. "Shall we go, Chere," he asked and offered his arm.She laughed a little and shook her head. After that wonderful breakfast she decided to indulge him and hooked her arm into his. It felt nice, even though she didn't want to admit it to herself. As they walked down the halls together some of the other younger kids were hanging out and whispered and giggled as they walked past. She guessed it wasn't so bad. She never had a real boyfriend before, so it was nice getting all this attention.
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Chapter Seven: Friendly Combat
Rogue entered the Danger Room’s control room with Remy not far behind. Logan was already waiting and gave Rogue a disapproving glance as she approached. She looked at the clock and saw that she wasn’t late. In fact, she was around forty-five seconds early, so she figured it must have been her escort.“Alright,” Logan said as he glanced over at the newest members of the team. “We’ll be running a basic training sequence today, nothing fancy. I just want to get a general idea of your strengths and weaknesses.”Remy looked disappointed at hearing the word basic as he and Rogue entered the Danger Room training area with Piotr and Kitty. “Here I was hopin’ for a challenge,” Remy said quietly.Kitty was giggling and Rogue just rolled her eyes. Both Remy and Piotr looked confused. Rogue looked over at Remy and said, “Just wait until ya see what Logan’s idea of ‘basic’ really is.”Remy became a little more excited about this training session. Perhaps it wouldn’t be so boring after all.“Alright, people,” Logan called on the mic. “Colossus you’re partnered with Shadowcat. Watch each other’s backs, because if either of you get tagged out, we do it all over again tomorrow.” Then he looked over at his other two trainees. “Rogue, you’re with Gambit.” He almost scowled as he said Gambit’s codename. “Same rules apply.”“Great,” Kitty said with a groan. She knew all too well what Logan’s idea of tag was.Shadowcat and Colossus were on one side of the room while Rogue and Gambit were on the other. A maze made of bricks appeared and blocked their view of their other two teammates. Object of the training exercise was to make it to the center without getting tagged. There were tiny metal spheres flying around, but instead of spewing out ammunition it was shooting out red paint. One drop and you were out. So the objective was to take out the spheres before they took you out.Gambit and Rogue raced down the north side where they encountered their first tiny metal sphere. It was small but a fierce little thing coming straight at them. Gambit had a card ready and with little effort flung it at the flying metal ball which exploded as it hit.Rogue picked up a metal pole about a foot and a half long, and the two raced through the opening the explosion made. They turn left and found themselves trapped at a dead end wall. Two more spheres came at them. Rogue took one out by swinging the pole like a bat, and it smashed up against the brick wall but was able to fire. Rogue, on instinct, did a high jump and flipped in the air and the paint just missing her and landed on the ground. She rolled once before getting up.Remy was busy with his attack hitting the remote on his second try. Red paint splattered on the brick wall behind him just missing him as he ducked to the ground.“You alright, chere?” he asked.With no time to answer his question, she jumped again while screaming, “Look out!”He had another card ready and threw it hard at a medium sized sphere. He hit it but, it didn’t take it out. Rogue still had her pole and smashed down on it as she came down, the thing becoming nothing but scrap after her assault.“Let’s go!’ she shouted and they climbed through yet another opening. They were close to the center, but as they came to the opening in the maze that would take them there, a large sphere was waiting for them. “Oh, shit!” Rogue shouted, but she got an idea. “Gambit, charge the pole!”He did so without hesitation and saw that it was glowing about two thirds of the way down. She was taking a chance, but she flung the pole in the air hitting the large sphere. Gambit was not content to stay out of the attack and flung several cards. They both ducked shielding their eyes from the explosion. When all was quiet they made a run and reached the center.“Yeah, we did it!” Rogue shouted. She was smiling and Remy realized how much of a daredevil she really was, not that he didn’t know that already.She waited there for Colossus and Shadowcat and saw the large Russian carrying Kitty. She had a big red paint stain on the front of her uniform. She looked so embarrassed having been tagged out and not very happy knowing she would have to do it again tomorrow.“I blew it,” Kitty said as Logan was standing with a disapproving look on his face.“There’s always tomorrow,” Piotr said as he put her down, but Kitty still looked devastated.“That’s what I’m afraid of,” she said with a sorrowful look in her eyes.“Same time tomorrow,” he said as she was ready to leave the Danger Room. Piotr followed her out. Once they were gone Logan looked over at Gambit. “Not bad,” he said and pulled out a cigar and returned to the control room.“He gave you a compliment,” Rogue said as they walked out together.“Dat was a compliment?”“Coming for Logan, that’s a best ya gonna get,” she said with a coy smile.As they walked down the long hallway he had a crazy thought. One thing was for sure, they made a great team in combat, but Remy was still hoping they would be compatible in other ways.
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Chapter Eight: Class Is In Session
After her morning training session Rogue had classes to teach for the most of the morning, she entered her first class after changing into her workout suit. It was five minutes before class was to begin when Professor Xavier wheeled into the workout room. She had just finished warming up when she heard his voice from behind her."Rogue, may I speak with you a moment?" he asked. She jumped not realizing he was there. Remy was standing next to him, and she just now got a whiff of his cologne."Yes, Professor," she said as she picked up a towel and wiped the sweat off her face. She had her hair back in a ponytail high on her head. She usually wore it down except for her self-defense classes."I heard about your successful first session with Gambit this morning and was wondering if he could sit in on your classes today. Between the both of you I feel the girls could benefit from both your skills and experiences.""Alright," Rogue said but she didn't look altogether thrilled about it. "Come on, Cajun, I'll give you a rundown before the kids get here.""Whatever you say, Chere," he said and followed her to the mat. The Professor left with a smile on his face. He wasn't one to play match , but he felt the handsome Cajun may just give the push she needed to bring back her self-confidence."So, what we’re going to teach the girls today is how to ward off a mugger with no use of powers, and you get to be the mugger.""So what you're sayin' is dat des girls get to beat on Remy," he said questionably. "You alright wid dose girls puttin' dere hands all over me.""Remy, be serious," she said and rolled her eyes as his attempt to make her jealous. "These girls need to know how to defend themselves without powers. So first, we’ll demonstrate, and then each of the girls will get a try."She ran down the scenario and they practiced it twice, and as they were finishing to second time to girls came pouring into the workout room. There were twelve young teenage girls of the ages of twelve and thirteen. She gave Remy the protective gear to wear. Even though he was a mutant and could take a pretty good beating with no problem she still worried about safety."Alright, girls, now I want you all to line up over here in front of the mat." They all complied standing like little soldiers but conversing like teenage girls. "Everyone quiet down. Now, we are going to show ya what to do if ya should be attacked by a mugger.""Miss Rogue, I know what to do," a girl with long red hair said. She had it pulled back in a French braid. "I'll just blast them with my fire power and fly away.""Angie," Rogue said. "This is a no powers self-defense class. Now, we can't always rely on our powers, so we need to learn natural skills.""I get it," a brown haired girl said. "My power is invisibility, but if you've already been grabbed that might not help.""Karen, you're absolutely right," Rogue said and the red-headed girl stuck out her tongue at her. "Now, this is , and he's going to be our mugger today. We're gonna demonstrate what to do if your attacked from behind. Now, everyone pay attention."Rogue and Gambit started the scenario with Rogue walking casually across the mat. Gambit came up from behind and grabbed her putting his arm around her throat. First thing she did was give him a back kick to the groin and flipped him over on his back. Now, he was glad she made him wear the protective gear.The girls clapped and cheered. "Way to go, Teach,” a blond girl standing on the end said. She and Gambit went through three different self-defense moves and had the girls practice them on each other. Then they would have their shot at thwarting Remy the mugger. The first girl did well and used the back kick, and two other girls used the elbow to the side, but when it came to Angie, the boaster, she had a hard time getting her footing and on instinct used the arm twist move Rogue taught them last week."Did I do that wrong?" she asked thinking she had failed."No, you didn't," Rogue said. "That was a good move but you need to work on your back kicks before next week's class." Then she looked at the time and saw that the class was just about over. "You all did well today, but I want you to practice those back kicks.""Yes, Miss Rogue," they all said together before heading out. They were all giggling and gossiping, not like the fierce little fighters they all were during practice.Once they left, Rogue looked over at Remy who was taking off his protective gear. "Ya didn't do bad yourself.""Oh, yeah, you like seein’ dose little girls beat on me?" he asked and she laughed."You're a tough guy," she said and then took a drink of water. "Ya can take it.""Oh, yeah,” he said and pulled her close to him." He had one of her hands behind her back and while holding the other one. He tried to come close enough to kiss her, but she pulled a fast one and twisted his arm freeing herself.She let go after a few seconds and let him fall to the floor. "Next class is starting soon," she said in a soft voice."Whatever you say, Miss Rogue," he said teasingly as he wiped the sweat off his face with one of the towels lying on a nearby bench.They spend the rest of the morning teaching together and it started to actually become fun. Rogue was taking the afternoon off to go on that shopping trip that Kitty roped her into. After a light lunch they would be off on their excursion, leaving both Remy and Piotr to train with Logan for the rest of the afternoon. Rogue could just imagine what her old teacher was going to put those boys through, and a smile came to her face.
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Chapter Nine: Mall Trawling
Rogue went up to her room to change after lunch only to find Kitty in their room putting on her makeup."Hey, Rogue, how's your new assistant?" Kitty asked teasingly. She knew who she was talking about by that insinuation in her voice."Kitty, what are you talkin' about?" Rogue asked as she changed behind her screen. She put on a pair of jeans and a long black t-shirt. She had her black shear gloves lying on her bed, as well as her black ankle boots sitting by her nightstand."Rogue, why are you still wearing those?" Kitty asked as she was putting the finishing touches on her hair. She had decided to wear it down in a loose curl which was a new look for her but ever since Piotr told her she had pretty hair she wanted to wear it down to see if it was true."What do ya mean?" Rogue looked at her confused. "Ah love those boots.""Not the boots, silly, those gloves," Kitty said pointing to them."It’s just in case," Rogue said as she put a brush through her hair. Kitty tried to ask again, but Rogue was humming a tune in the attempt to drown her out."Rogue!" Kitty shouted agitated by her friend's behavior."What?" Rogue shouted. "Ah'm tryin' t'get ready for this shoppin' trip you insist ah go on.""And I'm so glad I talked you into it," Kitty said giving her a look like she accomplished the impossible. "Now, what you need is a complete makeover.""We're goin' shoppin' but no lame makeovers.""Then at least buy some new outfits," she insisted. "Something sexy for Remy to look at.""Kitty!" she yelled. "Ah'm not out to impress that swamp rat but having some new stuff would be nice.""Then let's go," Kitty said and dragged her out if the room.They took Rogue's car. She invited Wanda to come along, more for safety reasons. With Wanda along it would stop Kitty from going too crazy.They reached the apartment building in less than fifteen minutes and took the elevator up to Wanda's apartment. They knocked on the door and in seconds it opened and they were greeted by their friend. Over the last year or so she had grown her hair out but added some red streaks to contrast its natural dark color. It may have looked silly on anyone else, but Wanda had a certain amount of class and sophistication and she looked rather sheik."Johnny, I'm leaving now," she said and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. He was on his computer doing some work and grunted in response. She just laughed as she headed out the door."Trouble in paradise?" Kitty asked."Naw, he just gets that way when he's working. He's got a deadline coming up, and his editor is getting on his back because he's taking so long to finish this new book.""If it's anything like his last book, it'll be fantastic,” Kitty said, her eyes twinkling. “Then just maybe you'll get that engagement ring.""Kitty, we are nowhere near that stage," Wanda said, but Kitty was a hopeless romantic and started planning a wedding if any of her friends had more than one date with a guy."Hey, girlfriends, what's going on?" a cute sixteen year old blonde said. She was wearing a pair of hot pink sunglasses and her short hair in high pigtails. She wore a pink glittery t-shirt and tie dyed jeans with the sun on one leg and moon and stars on the other. She also had her purple glow in the dark sneakers on. (Note: I have that outfit in my closet.)"We're going shopping, Tabby,” Kitty said in an excited sing-song voice. “Since a certain Cajun has moved in, Rogue needs some new clothes.""Sounds like a great way to spend the afternoon,” Tabitha said excitedly. “Can I come with?""Sure," Kitty said before Wanda and Rogue could object. It was a foursome whether Rogue liked it or not, but Kitty and Tabitha better not try and make her buy something pink and frilly.They piled into Rogue’s car and headed for the mall. It wasn't too crowded that afternoon, so it was a good thing they decided to go on a week day and not the weekend when every teenager in town would be hanging out there.The girls hit three stores and by the end of it Rogue was exhausted. She hated shopping and remembered why she only did when there was no other choice. She did get some nice things though. Some new jeans and summer tops and a new bathing suit. There was a pool at the institute and she loved going for swims when it wasn't occupied. That was usually late at night. It was safer to have a swim when no one was around, because she still worried that she would hurt someone.They took a break and decided to stop for some burgers at the food court. Kitty and Tabby opted for the cheeseburger special, while Rogue preferred the spicy chicken. Wanda got herself a roast beef sandwich at the Subway stand.Kitty was first to get her food order and found them a table. Once the other girls were finished they came and joined her."Wow, we bought a lot today," Tabby said and counted her money to see how much she had left. She got a job as a waitress a few nights a week and made good tips, but Kitty was amazed at how much money she had."Hey, Tab, is that your lifesavings?" Kitty asked."No, my dad sent me a mess of lottery tickets and I actually won some money, but I would never tell him that. He would ask for a cut.""I don't tell my dad anything," Wanda said. "He doesn't even know I moved in with John yet… at least I don't think he does.""Dads can be lame sometimes," Kitty said, "but they're always there when you need them." Kitty looked over to see the sullen look on Rogue’s face. "Oh, I forgot, Rogue doesn't have a dad.""Ah don't need one," she said, trying to lighten her mood. "Ah've lived eighteen years without one so why change now.""Hey, why don't we talk about something else," Tabitha said starting to feel uncomfortable about the heavy turn the conversation took. "Like John's new book." she looked right at Wanda for all the inside information."Oh, no," Wanda said. "John and his editor would kill me if I let anything spill.""Oh, come on, just a little spoiler," Tabitha said starting to pout."Sorry, Tabs, you will have to wait until it comes out," Wanda said as she popped a French fry in her mouth."Hey, Tabby, so what do you like readin'?” Rogue asked. It was a shock to her that Tabitha would read anything other than a sales ad. “As I remember ya almost flunked English Lit because you didn't actually read any of the books ya did reports on.""Those were boring books, but John always has those hot steamy love scenes in his. I wonder how much of that is made up?" She looked over at Wanda giving her a wink. She responded by throwing a large French fry at her."That's none of your business," Wanda said her face red with embarrassment.Tabby was laughing and teasing and threw some French fries at her except she put some ketchup on hers.Rogue just rolled her eyes at how childish they were being. "Hey, can't you two talk about somethin' without throwing food.""Hey, I know what?" Kitty said with a twinkle in her eye. "Let’s talk about the hot and heavy romance going on at the mansion.""Do tell," Tabby said as her eyes lit up. She was always up for some good gossip."Well, I know Gambit has his eye on a certain girl. Can anyone guess who it is?" Kitty asked as she along with Wanda and Tabby all stared at Rogue who looked shocked."Hey, there is nothin' goin’ on," she said but they all looked like they didn't believe her. "He’s just assisting in a few of my self-defense classes.” Wanda was smiling and shook her head while Kitty had a sly look of satisfaction on her face. "And what about you, Kitty, is Colossus really just painting your picture?"There were some ohhs and ahhs coming from both Wanda and Tabitha."Well, I've been trying to get him to ask me out, but he's shy, so I might have to just ask him.""Rogue doesn't have to worry about Remy being shy," Wanda said which made her blush. "Oh, come on, Rogue, Remy likes you, and it is okay to say you like him too.""Well, maybe I do… just a little," she said but she looked embarrassed."I knew it," Kitty said with a giggle. "Sooner or later you'll be planning a wedding. Hey, maybe you and Wanda could have a double wedding.""Kitty, we haven't even been out on one date," Rogue said, gritting her teeth."It's coming," Kitty said, looking determined. Rogue just rolled her eyes but secretly she wondered what it would be like to go out on a real date with Remy. There was that one time in New Orleans that they went to that little jazz club, and not counting the deception she had a really good time.She looked down at her phone to see that it was getting onto dinner time and she didn’t want to be late. “Hey, Kitty, we should get going.”“Is it that time already?” Kitty said and looked at her phone to see that it was later than she thought. She also had a text from Piotr. “Oh, that’s so sweet.”“What?” Rogue inquired.“Pete left me a text. He says: Saved you a place at dinner. Don’t be late.”Rogue just laughed. Kitty had a way of blowing up the little things and making them big, but if this was a hint at something bigger she hoped he didn’t break her heart or he would have her to contend with.They made it back to the mansion just in time for dinner. Rogue had a few minutes, so she ran upstairs to put her bags away in her room. She thought about how her life has been for the past few years since her powers came into play, being so lonely and withdrawn, but things were starting to change and her future looked so much brighter. Still, she couldn’t bring herself to take off those gloves. She felt safer with them on. It would stay that way until she felt more secure with herself.
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Chapter Ten: The Midnight Swim
Rogue came down to dinner just as everyone was gathering around. She looked over to see that there was an empty seat next to Remy. He was smiling up at her motioning for her to come and sit next to him.Since there were no other seats available she hesitantly took the offer. She remembered what she told the girls about liking Remy and she knew that was not true, she more than liked him but didn't know why. That was something electric pulling her towards him and she couldn't exactly explain what it was.She was mostly silent during dinner, but she could sense Remy staring at her. A few times she thought his leg touched hers, but she shrugged it off as accidental.In secret, she liked the fact that he kept looking over at her, but she would never admit that to anyone especially him. She wasn't all that hungry after eating at the mall, but Rogue was never one for dieting. She always burned it off in training anyway.When dinner was finally over she was glad, being this close to Remy was making her nervous and she feared she would do something stupid and she didn’t want any cause for embarrassment, especially in front of him. She excused herself early and ran up the stairs to her room.She did have an excuse, because she had bought four bags of clothes including a dress and wanted to get them put away. It was just an excuse, because she could do that anytime. First she put the dress in the closet looking for an empty dress bag to put it in. She looked at the dress and only bought it at Kitty's urging. It was black lace with a shag skirt and the right amount of cleavage at the top. It was elegant and sexy at the same time and she usually didn’t take Kitty’s advice on fashion but she was right about this one.She had no idea where she was going to wear a dress like this, but perhaps someday the opportunity would arise.After she put the dress in the bag and hung it up she emptied the second bag of clothes. There she found a few pairs of shorts and some tank tops. She barely ever wore shorts, at least not the last couple of years. With her powers she was always afraid too, but even though she had some control she was still scared. She was so caught up in her task that she didn't even see that someone was in the doorway. She had taken out the third bag that contained the new undergarments she bought. She pulled a pair of black lace panties and held it up to the light.She then heard a long whistle and gasped while turning around still holding the panties in her hand."Dat's gonna look real nice on you, Chere," Remy said and walked into the room. She looked down and just noticed she was holding her underwear in her hand. She quickly stuck them back in the bag and turned her back to him. She was blushing and didn't want him to see."Hey, is dare somet'ing de matter?" he asked as she shoved the bag under her bed. "No, ah just didn't see you," she said and then thought for a moment and became angry. "Why were ya lurking outside mah door anyway?""Wasn't lurkin, an' it was open," he said defensively.She had to admit to herself that he may have been right. She couldn't remember if she shut the door or not."So... umm... what are ya doin' here?" she asked very nervously. "Jus' passin' by an' saw your door open," he said and came closer to her. "Jus'wonderin' what you were doin', dat's all.""Ah went shoppin' with the girls, and ah was just puttin' it all away.""So whatcha buy?" he asked sitting on her bed. He had a way of making himself at home in her room."That's none a your business," she said. "Now, get off mah bed.""Oh, come on, Chere," he said and held out his hand for her. "After trainin' wid Wolverine Remy’s tired... An' sore.""Then go to your own room," she demanded, but there was a hint of a smile on her face."Remy like it here just fine," he said and laid out on her bed. She tried not to look but, he was so handsome and sexy lying there, and if she had been any normal girl she would have been in his arms in seconds.Instead, she remained stubborn and acted annoyed at his behavior. "Fine, ya just have a good ole time in mah bed, and ah'll go elsewhere."She walked out of the room, but she could hear Remy laughing as she stomped down the hall. She was trying not to let him get to her, but somehow it wasn't working. After all this time, she still had feelings for him and having him in such close vicinity those feelings were just growing stronger.
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Rogue finally made an attempt to return to her room. She feared he was still there, but it turned out that he had left. Kitty was leaving early in the morning to visit her parents for the weekend, so she turned in early so she wouldn't be so tired.It was a quarter till midnight and she should have thought about getting some sleep, but for some reason she was restless. What she needed was some exercise, and this was the perfect time to use the pool. Everyone else was asleep or getting there and she loved the night air.She quickly changed into the new bathing suit she bought. It was dark aqua green with silver shimmers throughout. It was on the modest side but showed off her figure nicely. With all of her physical training she was well toned and a force to be reckoned with even without her powers.She grabbed her dark blue beach towel after putting on her beach jacket and headed for the pool.Everything was quiet, and it would have been nice to have some sort of music, but she didn't want to wake anyone up. So a nice peaceful swim would have to suffice.She took off her jacket and laid it on one of the lawn chairs and set her towel down next to it and was about to dive in. That was until she heard a voice."Very nice," it said and she looked over to see a shadowy figure approaching, but she knew who that voice was attached to."Remy, what are you doin' out here?" she asked. As he came closer it was obvious to see that he was in a pair of swimming trunks. She tried not to look, but she had to admit that he looked good."Same as you, Chere," he said. Only then did she realize how close he was and backed away a few steps. He was barely wearing anything and neither was she."What's wrong?" he asked."Ah don't want t'hurt you," she said and grabbed her towel to cover herself. She sat on the lawn chair trying to cover as much skin as possible."You ain't gonna hurt me," he said and tried to reach for her but she flinched. He backed off a little and squatted down to meet her eye level. "Why don' you trust yourself?""Ah hurt people in the past… you included," she said with a sad guilty look in her eyes."If you’re talkin’ about the time you were under Mastermind's control dat ain't your fault.""It don't matter," she said and turned away from her. "Ah still did it.""When you gonna stop blamin' yourself for dat?" he asked. "I done bad t'ings too, and by choice. Tryin' t’change an' be better. You showed me I could."She turned back in surprise. "Ah didn't do that.""Sure you did, an' now's de time you start trust in yourself.""Ah can't... Ah can’t touch anyone," she said and there was a tear in her eye. He sat down in the chair next her hers and scooted it close to hers but not so close that they were touching."Sure you can... if you want to," he said and moved the towel away. "I know about to trainin' and you been learnin' to control it.""How do ya know...?""Kat told me," he said jokingly."Kitty?” He nodded with a smirk. “I'll kill her," she said and he tried to reach for her hand. She pulled away, but he just held up his hand waiting for her to make a move. She was stunned by the gesture and even though she was scared she slowly brought her hand closer to his to where it was barely touching. A slight brush and nothing happened, and then she pressed her palm to his palm. She wore a smile when nothing happened. She didn't want to absorb him; she just wanted to touch him.He wrapped his fingers around hers and slowly rose to his feet and guided her to rise to her feet. He offered his other hand and held it gently. She didn't feel the pull of her powers, just the natural body heat he radiated.Both of their palms touched and goosebumps went up and down her spine. She felt nervous, but she wasn't even thinking about her dangerous and unique power but how he was making her feel at that moment.She wasn't sure how to handle it and had never felt this way before, not with Scott. That she realized long ago was just a crush, and then there was Cody but she barely even knew him.With Remy it was different. The few times she touched his mind there was something besides just the memories that bonded her too him, but something more and that scared her more than anything else.She took her hands away and crossed her arms. She felt awkward and wanted to get back to the real reason she came out here."Ah think ah should take mah swim before it gets too late," she said and approached the edge of the pool."How 'bout I join you?" he asked and stood a few inches away from her. "A race." There was smugness about his face that almost irritating and the idea of racing and beating him was appealing."You're on," she said and dove into the water.Remy followed seconds later and the race was on. He matched her stroke for stroke, but while Remy was taking this little competition very leisurely, Rogue was working hard to beat him like she had something to prove.He could have easily won, but his objective was to raise her confidence.They reached the other end of the pool at the same time, and Rogue was out of breath. She swam hard and her heavy breathing proved it. Remy looked over at her drenched face and liked seeing her two toned hair slicked back. He came towards her and gently touched her bare shoulders. She was so distracted in trying to regain her senses she didn't even notice."I guess you won, Chere," he said and came close to her. She used what was left of her strength to hold him back."No, it was a draw," she said and lifted herself out of the pool. "It's late, and ah should get some sleep."She rose to her feet and ran over to get her towel but left her beach jacket behind her. She ran off into the building and disappeared.Remy stared off into space a few minutes after she left his sight. He lifted himself out of the pool and saw her abandoned jacket. He walked over and picked it up bringing it to his nose. It even smelled like her. He would return it after a good wash... well eventually.He walked off back to his room knowing that he would be dreaming of nothing but her.
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Chapter Eleven: Dares and Bright Ideas
For the next week or so Rogue tried to avoid Gambit but it was very difficult seeing as they had early training together. He was assisting in her morning classes, but even when they were not working together or training he always made an excuse to be around her. He would even volunteer to go shopping for the week’s food supplies. It was her turn and she hated shopping more than anything. Why would anyone volunteer to go food shopping was beyond her? She didn’t want to admit the obvious reason, and that was that he simply wanted to spend time with her.It was the afternoon when they came back from grocery shopping, and Kitty and Piotr were in the kitchen helping Remy and Rogue put away the all the food they bought."Rogue, you are so lucky," Kitty said as she picked up a gallon of milk with both hands, but Piotr came along and saw that she was struggling and took it from her."Allow me," he said which made Kitty giggle. She gave him a flirty smile as he picked up two more gallons in the other hand and placed them on the counter."How is that?" Rogue asked in response to Kitty statement. She thought it almost shameful the way she had Piotr wrapped around her little finger, but Kitty had always been a little flirty when it came to boys."Well, you get a cute guy to help you out with errands and assists in your classes. I wish I could get someone to do that," she said and she looked right at Piotr. Just then she saw the big Russian go pale and sweaty.Rogue looked a little guilty thinking that she overstepped her bounds having Remy help her out so much. She was about to say something, but he spoke first."Remy happy to help out a lovely lady," he said and took Rogue's hand. She was still wearing her gloves, and even though she didn't need them Remy had not said a word about it. She was grateful for that. "Besides, Rogue here works too hard. Only decent t’ing Remy can do is makes t'ings a little easier for her.”"Ya know ya didn't have to come," Rogue said. "Ah could have handled it on mah own.""I know you could have, but why do it alone when you could have a nice distraction.” She thought he was being a little arrogant and on anyone else it would have been revolting, but with Remy for some reason it was enduring. “Make the time go by easier.""Well, maybe, but ah was glad for your help," Rogue said and Kitty was shocked. “Ah still do feel a little guilty about takin’ up your free time, so ah’ll have t’do somethin’ to make it up to ya. How about ah take your chores for a week?”“Non, Remy got a better idea,” he said and came close to her. “How ‘bout I take you out Saturday night?”Kitty had a big grin on her face while Piotr pretended not to hear them.“Am ah payin’?” Rogue asked.“Non, no way would I make a femme pay. When you out wid Remy its first class all de way.”“Then how is that payin’ you back if you’re footin’ the bill?”“De pleasure of your company,” he said and took her hand and kissed it. “So what do you say?”“Ah don’t know,” she said stumbling over the words. “Everyone would be talkin’ and…”“Are you afraid, chere?” Remy asked her. She didn’t realize that Kitty and Piotr left the kitchen.“No, ah ain’t afraid a nothin’,” she said shocked and angry that he would imply that she was scared.“Den prove it an go out wid me Saturday night,” he said.“Is that a bet?” She fired back at him.“Answer de question,” he said and she still looked flustered, but she could see he was dead serious. “Alright, but just to prove a point.”“De point is to have a good time, dat’s how you can pay me back,” he said and came closer to her. “Now, you jus’ be ready at six and wear your prettiest dress. Remy take you some place nice.”“So where are we goin’?”“Dinner and dancin’ for starters,” he said.“Sounds good,” she said and tried to go back to the groceries, but Remy took her hand again.“Let’s seal it wid a kiss,” he said, but before she could protest his lips were on hers. There was enough heat in the room to melt all the food they still had not put away. “Dere, now you can’t back out.”“Ah’m not gonna back out,” she said and picked up two dozen eggs and placed them in the refrigerator.She looked at her gloves and realized something. Remy was right when he said she was afraid, but she was afraid more of herself and not anyone else. Still she didn’t have the heart to take off those gloves, but she hoped one day she would have the courage to.After they were done putting away the groceries Rogue ran up to her room. She wanted to have some time alone, but Kitty was in their room as well. She was talking on the phone to one of her friends at school. She plopped down on her bed and opened the novel she had been reading. Kitty barely gave her a second glance.She just rolled her eyes at Kitty’s idle prattle and tried to concentrate more on her book. After about ten minutes she gave up. All she could think about was Saturday night and the dare date she had made with Gambit. Why did she agree to it? Finally she threw the book across the room. It would have hit Kitty if she didn’t quickly phase, so the thing would fly right through her.“What the hell was that about?” Kitty asked and remembered she was still on the phone. “Darla, let me call you back later.” She ended the call and threw the phone on her bed. “Rogue, what’s going on?”“Nothing,” she said and turned away. She was sitting cross-legged on her bed refusing to look at Kitty.“Then why did you throw a book at me?” Kitty asked, but she didn’t answer at first. “Rogue!” she nearly shouted.“Ah wasn’t throwing it at you,” Rogue said sliding off her bed. “Ah was just frustrated.”“About what?” Kitty asked.“Well,” she said, turning to her friend who had a confused look on her face. “I kinda, sorta maybe have a little date with Remy on Saturday.”Kitty screamed while hugging her roommate. “Oh my god, oh my god, that is soooo fantastic. Like when did he ask you?”“In the kitchen after you and Pete left,” she said and let out a breath. “He didn’t so much ask me as dared me,” Rogue said. She looked annoyed when she said it.“Dared you?” Kitty asked.“Yeah, that swamp rat got this idea in his head that ah’m afraid,” she said and stormed across the room the retrieve her book.“And you’re not?” Kitty asked approaching Rogue who was holding her book. She opened it and there was the Queen of Hearts card. The same one Remy gave to her.“No….” she said slowly. “Ah’m terrified.”“Oh, come on, Rogue, don’t be. It’s just a date,” Kitty said with the cutest smile she could muster. Rogue just rolled her eyes and fell back on the bed. “So have you decided what you’re going to wear?”“Not really, but Remy said it was fancy so I do have a dress ah’ve been savin’, but it might be too revealing.”“Let’s see it,” Kitty said, but Rogue hesitated which made Kitty pout. “Please.”“Alright,” she said and walked over to her closet and pulled out the black lace dress she bought a few months ago.”“Oh, Rogue, that’s so pretty,” she said as she inspected the dress. “If you wear that, Remy’s eyes will pop out of his head, and with being able to control your powers he won’t be able to keep his hands off of you.”“That’s what ah’m afraid of,” Rogue said as she hung the dress back in the closet.“You’re worrying over nothing. Anyone who sees the way Gambit looks at you they’ll know right away that he adores you.”“You think so?” Rogue asked.“Yeah, but if you’re that scared why don’t we make it a double date. Pete and I are going out Saturday, so why don’t we all go together.”“Well, having another couple there would take the pressure off.”“I’ll go talk to Pete about it, and I’ll find out what he thinks,” she said excitedly. She made a beeline for the door but peeked her head into the door crack after walking out. “Just remember if you and the ragin’ Cajun want to go off on your own…”“Kitty!” Rogue shouted at her shocked that Kitty would think she would do that sort of thing on the first date.Kitty laughed opening the door wider. “Rogue, he’s hot, and he’s got it bad for you. There’s nothing wrong with spending some alone time together.”“Ah guess not, but he better act like a gentleman,” Rogue warned.“We’ll make sure of it,” Kitty said walking out again. Rogue thought it would be a good time to get back to her book.Kitty walked down the hall to Piotr’s room and knocked on the door. “Hey, Pete, are you in there?”She saw the door slowly open and he invited her in. He had his sketchbook in hand, and she was interested to see what he was working on. “Drawing again?”“Oh, yes, I was going over the sketches I made of you and deciding which pose to paint.”“Well, whichever one you choose I know it will be a masterpiece,” Kitty said and sat on his bed. The gesture seemed to make him nervous so she sat on the edge with her hands folded. “So, Pete, I was just thinking about Saturday night.”“Oh, Saturday, have you changed your mind?” he asked looking disappointed.“Oh, no, I can’t wait, but I was wondering if we could double with Remy and Rogue.”“You mean us all go out together?” Piotr asked.“Well, yeah, you see Rogue is really nervous about going out with Remy, and who can blame her, so I suggested that we double with them to take the pressure off.”“If Remy agrees then it’s okay with me,” he said and looked relieved. Kitty had a feeling the Piotr was nervous about going out with her as well.“Okay, great,” she said and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. She saw his face change to a slight rose color which she smiled at. “I can’t wait to tell Rogue.”She popped up off his bed and left his room and ran down the hall to tell the good news to her roommate.Piotr was stunned that Kitty had kissed him. It was only a friendly peck on the cheek, but he was still amazed that someone like Kitty would even give him the time of day. She had always been a hero and a straight A student, so she was exceptionally bright. He couldn’t understand why she would want to hang out with an ex-villain like him.In truth he never wanted to work for Magneto, but he never really had a choice. It didn’t change the fact that he had done some bad things under Magneto’s employ but was determined to make up for that and joining the X-Men was his first step.He heard another knock on the door and thought maybe was Kitty coming back. He opened the door and saw his old friend Gambit standing there. “Hey, tin man, I just saw your girl runnin’ down de hall lookin’ real excited. So what were you two up to?”“Nothing, Remy,” Piotr said but Remy saw his sketchbook laid out on his bed and picked it up. He flipped through it seeing that every sketch was of Kitty.“Real nice, homme,” Remy said and gave a smirk. “Dat little Kitty Kat got a big crush on you, and I t’ink you got one too.”“We… ah… we have a date Saturday night,” Piotr said bashfully as he took the sketchbook away from Remy.“Ohhh, my friend, you move fast,” Remy said with a laugh. “Well, I have a date wid Rogue Saturday night as well. Let de romance begin.”“About that, Remy, I told Katya I would ask you, but she and Rogue would like to make it a double date.” Remy didn’t look thrilled at that idea, but Piotr had to make him understand the reason for it. “Listen, Rogue is nervous about the date and I admit I’m nervous about going out with Kitty, so it might be best to make it a double as Katya suggests.”“So what you’re saying is dat Rogue might be more relaxed if we all go out toget’er,” Remy said and thought about it. “Remy want his Rogue to be comfortable, so okay. Dat be alright, but if t’ings heat up you and Kitty take off, okay?”“Alright, Comrade,” Piotr said. “Now, let me get back to my work. I promise Katya I would get this painting started.”“Sure, t’ing, Tin Man, and as for Saturday, dress up. We takin’ de girls out to a high class restaurant.”