Chapter 11

No POV

Tensions at the school for the gifted is high. Specifically between Jean and Estelle. Scott angered at the whole situation couldn't say much, due to understanding of Estelle's feelings, allowing her to stay in the end. Not like it mattered much. Logan vowed to protect her, even if it meant leaving the X-Men.

The mind warp that once held him to the place is truly gone, and his dedication for Estelle reflects it.

The others didn't alienate Estelle, now allowing the air to penetrate their friendship with her. This shook her the most, but she remained grateful.

As school officially started, her class became a popular subject. Learning to understand the art of music, reliving stress from there being mutant days. The class has allowed the children to helped them find joy in their young life's.

And after a long day, between Logan's missions and Estelle taking care of the kids they would meet. The once burnt home was rebuilt little by little. Holding a piece of their love with each brick, stroke and nail.

So when winter came the two celebrated in their home on Christmas Day, or more importantly, Estelle's birthday.

Logan isn't one to celebrate Christmas but to hear her birthday falls on the same day, he was quick to plan an evening for the two of them.

As the snow remained a blanket on the brick home, inside was warm. Dressed in his shirt, she sits beside him, the two enjoy simple food over beers. Nothing fancy, just comfortable.

Laughter rings in the air as Logan tells her stories of his past, for once grateful for his age. To watch her smile, hung on his every word made his chest burn with glee. Walking away from her, he returns with a small cake. A single candle lit for her to blow.

Presenting it to her, she smiles, closing her eyes to make a wish.

Looking at him, she smiles at not her wish but vow.

To remain by his side.

She knows he's lived a long life, two lifetimes that has led him to this. And she wishes to be by his side from now on. Even if she has to turn back the clock, she'll do it, for him.

She vows to be his light in the dark, the relief after a hard day.

Kissing him gently, he returns it, running his fingers through her thin braids.

Parting, she doesn't hesitate to take a bite of the sweet treat, "Delicious!"

She takes another, as Logan enjoys the view he steals a bit from her fork. Causing her to slap his arm playfully, scooping a bit of cake she holds it out for him to eat. He takes it making her smile brightly but his focus quickly shifts.

In the light of the crackling fire, he enjoys the way her legs glow. How his shirt loosely reveals her curves, exposing his favorite bits. How her dimples, oh how he adores them, deepen when she laughs. He could go on for hours of the wonders this woman has brought him, of the peace she's brought.

Placing his hand on her thigh her cheeks burn, she tries to steady her heart. Holding out a forkful for him, he doesn't accept, kissing her deeply.

His hands grip her, pulling her on his lap. She doesn't mind, leaning against him happily.

The snow melts leaving behind green grass and blooming flowers. As the cold fades, and the warmth comforts the angered, life on.

Jean confronts Estelle, apologizing for her action.

Estelle smiles elegantly, "Apology accepted."

A lie.

But why continue on this unneeded tension, her threat was true, and she plans to keep it if it happens again.

Around the end of spring a concerts being held at the school. A decision the students made, to preform for the facility and present parents. They chose the song and practiced since the beginning of the school year. And Estelle, their conductor, aided them.

In the music room, they stand around her.

"I'm proud of all of you! I know today will be a success!"

The excitement is clear in there eyes. Leading them to the yard, they take their seats. Taking a bow, she raises her hand.

The sweet symphony fills the air, contracting a perfect melody. Pride fills Estelle as she watches them ready their sheets, watching as they put there all in creating a masterpiece. And as the last note is rung, applause is given.

The students stand, taking a bow, smiles edged on each face. Letting them loose they disperse to talk to their guardians and teachers.

Feeling the wind blow against her face, Estelle can't help but enjoy the sight.

And as summer break arrives the kids surround her, as she expresses her final words to them before they go.

"This world won't be kind to you, they won't be nice. But that doesn't mean you have to live in its darkness. There will always be hope that things will get better. Hope that things will change, but even if they don't, you're never truly alone. You'll always have another, and when you find them, this world won't be so bad. So promise me, until you find people to call your own, don't let this world tear you apart."

Words from the heart, they understand, allowing it to become a burning reminder.

Logan isn't far, as they run off he wraps his arms around her. Leaning his forehead against hers they revel in peace. Safe, the world around her fades away at his presence.

To feel this safe, secure, is nothing sort of perfect.

A year passed since the day the met, and so much has changed.

But the world doesn't stop for a dinner under twilight. The X-Men leave to save the world, leaving the woman alone.

Slipping in the backyard, she aids the garden, using her powers to allow the many flowers to bloom and grow.

Humming to herself a sharp pain hits her neck.

A dart.

Her last thoughts are silent, before darkness fills her vision.