And on.

[helpmeguideit]

from here.

[ Charles mixed a couple drinks for both himself and Erik. When he finished, he offered one to Erik. It was nice -- relaxing, unusually so. He allowed his mind to reach out for a moment to the kids' minds to make sure things were alright. ]

We can certainly relax. Without worry.

[ But he couldn't help but worry a little. The fact that he considered them his children was definitely the cause. ]

Comments

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You've inspired them.

[helpmeguideit]

[ Smiles. ]

I've tried to.

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[Pride lit in his eyes and Erik canted his head to bump it affectionately against Charles']

You've done well.

[helpmeguideit]

With help, I've done well. A rare balance exists now.

[ Charles understands that affection, and just closes his eyes briefly. ]

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Every day is one closer to your dream, Charles. Even two years ago these kids wouldn't have had a chance. What you've built here is amazing.

[helpmeguideit]

It isn't really just my dream. [ They wanted the same thing, in the end, after all. ] And you have helped.

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Our dream, then. A better world for mutant-kind.

[helpmeguideit]

Yes, our dream. A peaceful and free world for us. Couldn't have said it any better.

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[Erik sighed, but it wasn't the audible sort. It was his mind, the sound of all his thoughts stilling to enjoy the moment, the simple pleasure of Charles saying the word 'our' in reference to them as a pair, not them as in the entire school. A faint smile curved his lips and he nodded.]

Charles, I've never thanked you for bringing me back here...

[helpmeguideit]

Erik, I could have never done this without you. This is where I always hoped you would be. [ By his side, at least - representing mutants. ]

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[He tilted his head to rest it against Charles', a warm, genuine smile touching his face. The arm draped across Charles tightened slightly holding him close for a short moment.]

Thank you for this.

[helpmeguideit]

You don't need to thank me.

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Don't be ridiculous, Charles. Of course I do. You've done as much for me as you have for any of your students.

[helpmeguideit]

[ Charles closes his eyes, and takes a quick sip of his drink ]

I know what I've done, but still -- I would do it again.

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And I would still be grateful.

[helpmeguideit]

...


You're welcome, then.

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[Erik opened his mouth as if to say more, then thought better of it. Even as comfortable as he felt with Charles now, after everything that passed between them, he still wasn't the sort of man to simply pour out his heart to another. Not even to Charles.]

[helpmeguideit]

[ Charles chuckled and went back to his drink for a moment. ]

You never have to worry, Erik. Your place is always here.

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[Erik shifted a little in his seat, twisting so he could playfully lean his chin on Charles' shoulder.]

I'm beginning to like these rainy days more and more.

[helpmeguideit]

I enjoy them. Especially if it is a day off of classes that goes along with it. Not that I -- don't enjoy the classes

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Even you require a little time for yourself, Charles.

[helpmeguideit]

I use my grading papers time as my time alone. [ Considering he truly enjoys it... ]

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Mmm. Yes, I know. I often find you slumped over your desk after late nights of grading papers.

[helpmeguideit]

[ Looks momentarily embarrassed. ] I am sorry. Sometimes sleep just takes over unexpectedly.

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[A quiet chuckle sounded in reply and Erik tightened his hold, pulling Charles' back flush to his chest.] I don't mind it at all. Putting you to bed is a simple thing.

[And it was a small pleasure for Erik. Being able to help Charles in those small ways made him feel useful, but not in the way anyone could be. Sure, anyone could put Charles to bed, but how many bothered to look in on his late night doings to ensure he was awake? How many were fortunate enough to lay by his side and be there when he woke to help him start his day? None but Erik.]