Title: Insanity

Author: Morgana (morganalebeau@yahoo.com)

Website: http://www.oocities.org/morganalebeau/

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Insanity 5 - Revelations

By Morgana

 

Warren was relieved that they finally had Remy restrained to the exam table. It helped that Hank had administered more of the sedative and Remy was finally calming down. The alien eyes closed as the Cajun sank into unconsciousness. Looking at Scott, he saw a similar relief on his friend's face. Now he finally knew what had been eluding him all this time. Scott's concern, his affection for Remy finally made sense. "You're in love with him," Warren whispered.

Scott flinched, hearing Warren's words. "Yeah, I am. Don't know why or when it happened; it just did."

Warren felt torn. Jean had only been dead for half a year and Scott was already kissing someone else. Oh, man, I still can't believe Scott kissed Remy! He had blinked his eyes when Scott had brushed the Cajun's lips, sure he was suffering from hallucinations, but when he had opened them again, the scene hadn't changed. "Scott, I don't know what to say..."

Hank had listened quietly, exchanging a glance with the professor. He knew about this. The professor wasn't surprised at all. One part of him felt happy for Scott, but another part wondered if it wasn't too soon to love again.

"I know what you're thinking," Scott said, as he looked at Hank and Warren. "I'm the first to admit it's too soon. I never planned on falling in love with him; it took me by surprise. Jean hasn't been gone for long and... I didn't want to admit to myself that I'm in love with Remy. It took a lot to face my feelings... Luckily, Jean left some recorded messages and she told me she wanted me to love again. Knowing I have her blessing let me admit my feelings to myself. But I'll understand if you don't see it my way..." Scott looked away, awaiting their judgment.

Warren saw the warm expression in the professor's eyes. Charles approved of Scott's decision and it made him reconsider his initial reaction. "Jean left recorded messages?"

"Yeah, they're... rather personal," Scott said reluctantly. "But..." he hesitated, "she told me that Remy's in love with me as well. Her telepathy picked up on his feelings when he returned from Antarctica. Remy never made a move on me, because he respected our marriage, but now that Jean's gone..."

Hank took a step closer to Scott and placed his large, furry hand on his friend's shoulder. "Jean was a great lady and I'm sure she knew what she was doing when she recorded those messages. She would want you to be happy and our poor Acadian friend certainly deserves a break as well. But you have your work cut out... The way Remy is now, he..." Feeling suddenly very emotional, he swallowed hard. "We'll help Remy... we'll find a solution."

Scott smiled weakly. "Thanks, Hank. I knew you'd back me up." In spite of his words, he hadn't been that confident Hank that would support him. Looking at Warren, he watched the play of emotions on the other man's face. "What about you, Warren?"

"I'm still processing," Warren admitted. "It's unexpected. I never knew..." He looked at Remy, who was still struggling weakly against the restraints. "I never knew you liked men in that way." He shrugged his shoulders, trying to appear calm and in control.

"I never knew myself," Scott confessed. "It took me some time to figure out my feelings."

Warren frowned. "I don't know how I feel about this, Scott, but I won't cause any problems. You’ve already got more trouble than you bargained for. Give me some time to get used to this."

"Sure, Warren." Scott looked toward Charles for instructions. "What do we do now? Reaching out and talking to Remy didn't work."

"Maybe we need someone Remy trusts unconditionally." Charles still hoped Sinister would get in touch with him.

"Who are you thinking about?" Scott's hope, which had been burning low, flared. "Do you have a plan?"

Yes, Charles thought privately, shielding his thoughts from the others. But I can't tell you that it involves asking Sinister to help us out. Charles considered Scott's question and nodded his head, recalling Sinister had disguised himself as Jean-Luc LeBeau to gain Remy's trust before. "I'll try to contact Jean-Luc LeBeau in New Orleans. Maybe seeing his father will convince Remy to trust us as well."

"Do you think he'll come? Isn't he in charge of the Thieves Guild?" Scott hoped the Cajun would abandon his duties in favor of Remy.

"We must try to convince him," Charles said firmly and steered his hoverchair toward the exit. "Scott, stay here and talk to Remy. Let him get used to your voice again. Henry, keep a close eye on our patient." Charles left the med lab, determined to use Cerebro to reach out to Sinister again.

///

"Now what?" Logan cursed beneath his breath. Creed's changed scent was throwing him off the track and he had lost the scent twice already. "He never used aftershave before..." It was messing with his senses.

Sneaking closer to the diner, he peeked inside and hissed, seeing Creed behind the counter. Behind the counter? What the hell's goin' on? This makes no sense!  Creed also sported a new hair cut, cleanly shaven face and he wearing a flannel shirt and jeans. Staring at the man's hands, Logan realized that Creed had also visited a manicurist. His claws were shorter than they had ever been and almost resembled normal fingernails. Stunned, he shook his head.

It's Creed and yet... it ain' him... The bloodlust was gone from Creed's eyes and the maniac was actually flirting with a waitress! What do I do?

///

Sinister, I know you can hear me! Damn it, answer me! Remy needs your help. Last time he was in trouble you cared enough to help him. It's even worse now and he really needs your help to pull him through! If you really care about him, you'll answer me!  Charles was getting frustrated, even angry. Sinister, answer me!

I heard you, Xavier! How did Remy get hurt this time? I warned you!

Charles sighed, relieved. Why didn't you answer sooner?

I was busy. Now tell me what happened. It infuriated him that Xavier had let Remy get hurt again. He was in the middle of an important experiment and Xavier's call had interrupted his work. After listening to Xavier rave for some time he had been irritated enough to react. Now that Remy wasn't close he wasn't particularly interested in the Cajun's health, but this would change once he was near the empath. It had baffled him repeatedly how his demeanor changed once he was close to his son. When Remy was close, he felt concerned for his son's well being, but once they were separated, he didn't really care. Giving in to the inevitable, he listened to Xavier who was trying to explain what had happened to Remy.

Creed did this to Remy? He had listened to Xavier's explanation with growing disbelief. He had warned Creed to stay away from Remy! And Remy's now possessed by Creed's animalistic urges?

He attacked us. Remy doesn't know what he's doing. Creed's instincts are guiding him.

Where's Creed? He should have taken Creed out a long time ago. Shielding his thoughts, he recalled what had happened in the past. Creed sexually assaulted Remy when he was healing and Creed has continued to target Remy. Why didn't I act sooner? First, I'll check on Remy and then I'm going to take Creed out of the game.

The last time you helped Remy by disguising yourself as Jean-Luc LeBeau... Charles mused. It might work this time as well. I planned to call Jean-Luc and ask him to come to Westchester if I couldn’t reach you, but you're my first choice. Being a telepath as well you know how to handle this. Charles hesitated to speak his next words, but he did, hoping it would convince Sinister to act for the benefit of his son. You might be his last chance.

I'll come in the guise of Jean-Luc LeBeau. It would take the real Jean-Luc at least a few hours to make the trip from New Orleans to Westchester so expect me in a few hours. In the meantime, you'll tell me exactly what happened to Remy.

Satisfied that he had attained his goal, Charles began updating Sinister.

///

"Scott?" Warren hesitantly approached his friend. "You look tired and Hank says it's okay for you to get some sleep as long as I wake you every three hours. There's nothing you can do, why don't you stretch out and get some rest?" Understanding the gentleness to Scott's touch as his friend stroked Remy's locks, Warren moistened his lips. "You know, I've been thinking..."

Scott smiled. "And what did you come up with?" He was confident that Warren would stay his friend, now that the other man hadn't turned away from him in disgust after finding out about his attraction to Remy. But he expected a more fierce reaction when the women on the team found out. Rogue certainly wasn't going to take this well.

"It's true, I never expected it, but... like Jean I want you to be happy and if Remy does the trick... I can't say I truly accept this, but I think I will, given some time." Warren smiled warmly. "Does Remy know?"

"Not yet."

"He looked flabbergasted when you kissed him, shook me up too, but maybe you should continue down that road. Maybe it will eventually strike him that you love him." Warren began to walk away, but Scott's voice made him stop.

"Thanks, Warren. It means a lot to me that you don't condemn me for being in love with Remy. I know you loved Jean as well and I still miss her every day, every minute, but Remy makes it bearable. He gave me a reason to hang in there and to not give up." Scott nodded his head. "I really mean it, thanks."

Warren nodded once and then walked over to Hank's office, giving the two men some privacy. "Any news?"

Hank looked up from the screen. "I'm afraid not, my friend. Remy's condition hasn't changed. Let's hope Logan finds Creed." Hank pretended to go back to typing, but eyed Warren closely. "What did you talk about just now?"

"Remy... I still can't believe Slim's in love with a guy!" Warren collapsed on the chair in front of Hank's desk. "I never saw it coming. I'm not homophobic, you know... if I were, Bobby wouldn't be my best friend." Bobby had come out a year before and after digesting the news, he hadn't seen any reason to end his friendship with Bobby. They were still best friends.

"Is it because of Jean?" Hank asked, abandoning his typing and leaning back in his chair.

Warren shrugged his shoulders. "I expected Scott to be crushed when she died. I thought he would mourn her death for the rest of his life. They seemed so close, so..." Warren failed to find the right words. "But I'll be okay with it. I just need a little time."

"What about Rogue?" Hank looked at Scott, who was talking softly to Remy. The Cajun was still unconscious.

"I really don't care about Rogue. She began dating Joe right after Remy's presumed death. She has no right to condemn them for being in love." Warren suddenly felt better, more at ease with the fact that Scott had chosen Remy as his new lover. "They might even work out."

"If we find a way to restore Remy's mind to its former state," Hank warned. "Did you hear from Logan?"

"Nothing. Maybe the professor knows?" Warren crossed his arms in front of his chest. "I hate not knowing what we're up against."

"I need to check on Remy." Hank rose from his chair, but stopped briefly as he stood next to Warren. "The professor will find a solution."

Warren nodded his head. "I hope you're right. I wonder if Logan's making progress."

///

Logan entered the diner and stalked toward the counter. Creed was helping some customers, who were paying their bills. Searching out the other man's eyes, he frowned. Creed's eyes were clear and free of rage.

"What will it be? Coffee? The apple pie is a hit," Creed said, watching the stranger closely. The man seemed familiar, but he couldn't put a name with the face.

Logan stayed alert, not buying Creed's act. It had to be an act! "Coffee, black."

Creed poured the steamy liquid into the mug and placed it in front of his customer. The hair at the back of his neck was standing rigid and he fought the urge to run. Did he know this man? Were they enemies? "So what brings ya to town?"

"Jus' passin' through," Logan whispered, sipping his coffee. "How 'bout ya? Been here for a long time?"

"Just arrived myself," Creed said, evasively. "Want somethin' to eat?"

"No thanks..." Logan considered his game plan. Taking out Creed here and now would attract unnecessary attention. He had to wait until Creed had finished his shift and left the diner.

He paid for his coffee and watched Creed help another customer. I can't believe this is Creed! Charlie was right about the amnesia. Creed almost seems normal! How fuckin' amazin' is that? The bastard looks and acts normal, like he never slaughtered his victims!

Logan felt Creed's eyes on him as he left the diner. He would lay low and wait for Creed to leave the establishment and then he would take his target out. Concentrating, he tried to reach out to Xavier. Professor?

Yes? Did you find Creed? Where are you? Are you on your way back to Westchester?

Things must have gotten worse for Xavier to be rambling. Yeah, I located Creed and yer right. He ain't actin' normal. He's workin' at a diner, and has even changed his appearance. I bet he had his first haircut in years!

Don't lose his trail and take him to the mansion as quickly as possible, Charles instructed.

How's the Cajun? Logan watched every move Creed made from his hiding place. Creed was slipping into his coat and it looked like his shift had ended.

Remy's condition remains unchanged. He attacked Scott again, scratched Warren's face open and we had to restrain and sedate him again.

Creed's 'bout to leave, Logan informed Xavier. I'll check in with ya later.

Take him alive, Logan. A dead Creed is of no use to us.

Understood.  Logan left his hiding place and followed Creed down the street. He had parked Scott's car around the corner and he planned to take Creed out quickly and then stuff him into the back of the car.

///

"Sir?" Scott looked up, an expression of hope flashed across his features.

"Logan has located Creed." Charles moved his hoverchair closer to the exam bed. "And I also contacted Jean-Luc LeBeau." He didn't want to lie to Scott, but couldn't tell him the truth either. Scott would never allow Sinister close. "He promised to come to Westchester. I expect him in a few hours."

Scott looked thoughtfully. "Sir, do you really think we still have a chance to reclaim Remy?"

"Yes, Scott. You need to have faith." Charles considered telling Scott to rest, but decided against it, sensing the other man's concern. Scott wanted to be close to Remy to help in case something went wrong. "Hank and Warren are around to help, if you need any."

"Thank you, sir." Scott concentrated on Remy again and claimed the Cajun's right hand. Remy's fingers instantly curled around his, tightly. "Everything will be all right, Remy, I promise."

///

Creed frowned. Something felt wrong. Was someone following him? That man at the diner had distressed him, but he didn't know why. His inner alarms had kicked in and he had been ready to leave in a hurry, but he had forced himself to stay calm. He didn't know why he felt paranoid, but he did.

Looking over his shoulder, he could have sworn that the nightly shadows had taken on human form. Someone's followin' me. He sped up, and barely kept from running. Why? Why's someone followin' me? Is it that stranger? Why would he target me? Target? Why did I use that word and... Argh! Someone tackled him, grabbing him by his knees and throwing him onto the concrete.

"Lemme go!" Creed kicked and tried to fight off his attacker and was surprised when he managed to throw the other man off. He hadn't know he was this strong! Rising to his full length, he glared at the shorter man who was back on his feet. "Whadda ya want? My money?"

Logan growled. "Don't play games with me, bub. Ya know what I want!"

"I don't! I don't even know you! Why did ya attack me?" Creed backed away from his attacker. "Why?"

"Stop playin' games, Creed!" Logan sneaked up on his target. "Yer comin' with me. If necessary I'll carry yer sorry ass back to Westchester!"

He froze in his tracks. "What did ya call me?"

"Creed, yer fuckin' name's Creed! Don't tell me ya forgot, 'cause I won't believe ya!" Logan took another step, backing Creed up in the corner. "Ya hurt a buddy of mine real bad, and yer comin' with me to help us undo the damage. What did ya do to Gumbo? And why are ya so calm and..." But Creed was still staring at him, motionless.

"Creed? Is that my name? Creed?" The name released vague memories, which he didn't understand. They were a big, blurry mess and he shook his head to clear it. "I ain't goin' with ya. I'm goin' home to catch some sleep. I got the early shift tomorrow."

Suddenly, the absurdity of the situation got to Logan and he laughed, hard. Creed made no sense. "I don't have time for this, Creed." Moving faster than the eye could see, Logan's fist connected with Creed's jaw. Creed went down and Logan grabbed him at the waist, dragging him toward the car, where he opened the trunk and uncovered some rope. Within seconds, he had tied Creed up and pushed him onto the back seat.

"Way too easy... Creed would never let me get away with such a sloppy attack. He could have easily fought me off. It was like he didn't see the punch comin'." Maybe the professor was right and Creed no longer felt this insane bloodlust. "Chuck will have to figure that one out. I'm doin' my job and that's takin' him to Westchester."

After making sure that Creed was out cold and tied tightly, Logan slipped behind the steering wheel and turned the car around. "Way too easy!"

///

Sinister morphed into Jean-Luc LeBeau and stepped into the car, which was parked near the mansion. He realized that he had to act like LeBeau in every sense of the word. Although he could have used a tesseract to travel to the mansion, his arrival would have stirred too many questions. So he had to arrive the old-fashioned way, by car.

He hadn't driven a car for a long time, but hadn't lost his skills. During his career, he had often pretended being someone else and he had acquired several 'human' skills over the years.

Driving up to the security camera, he waited for the X-Men to contact him. At first, he didn't recognize the voice that was speaking to him, but then he realized it was Warren Worthington, Archangel. "I'm Jean-Luc LeBeau, here to visit mon fils, Remy." Slipping into Jean-Luc's hide had become second nature by now. Remy had never seen through the pretence, so he reckoned he was doing a fine job impersonating the Cajun.

"The professor's already waiting for you," Warren said. He had used an excuse to relieve Joseph from monitor duty. The professor wanted to keep the Cajun's arrival low profile. As he opened the gates, Warren recalled the scene he had witnessed in the medlab several months before. Back then he had seen Jean-Luc LeBeau morph into Sinister. Later, he had realized why Charles had allowed it; as Jean-Luc, Sinister had been able to talk Remy into lowering his shields. So is this the real Jean-Luc LeBeau or Sinister in disguise? Feeling apprehensive, he watched the car drive up to the mansion. Using the com system, he informed Charles of the new arrival. I'd better stay close... in case I just admitted Sinister inside our walls.

///

"Scott? Jean-Luc's here. We should talk to him before he sees Remy." Like Sinister, Charles realized the importance of acting normally. They couldn't raise any suspicion.

"Does he know what happened to Remy?" Scott was tired after keeping this vigil at Remy's bed for all these hours. He rubbed his forehead and slowly rose to his feet. His head still hurt, but Hank had insisted he take some painkillers, taking the edge of the pain.

"Yes, I told him on the phone, but seeing Remy like this will hit him hard. We need to support each other." Charles smiled reassuringly. "Logan has caught Creed and is on his way back home. Once Creed's here we can start reversing the progress." That is if Sinister can gain Remy's trust. He didn't send Scott that last thought, keeping his musings private.

The lab door opened and Scott's gaze traveled from Remy to Jean-Luc LeBeau. He had never met the Patriarch of the New Orleans' Thieves Guild and felt slightly nervous.

Sinister stayed calm and in control, as a wave of fierce emotions swept over him. Bloody empathy! Even in his current state Remy's capable of making me feel again! I knew this would happen. Damn it, Creed, you're going to pay for hurting my son... again! Overcome by a sudden desire to protect his son, he marched toward the exam table and rested his right hand on Remy's brow, ignoring Summers. Forcing himself to act his part, he whispered, "What did dey do to you, petit?"

Remy stirred beneath his hands and his eyelids fluttered. Frowning, he saw the collar around Remy's neck and infuriated he was about to turn around and face the X-Men, to question them about the collar when a distressing thought hit him. Remy's collared... his empathy is switched off. He isn't influencing me... why am I still reacting this intensely?

Puzzled, he looked at the sleeping young man. Does our connection go deeper than I ever suspected? Did you unleash something the first time you touched my mind, using your empathy? What if I'm feeling protective because you're my son? Is this genetic? Did you subconsciously 'program' me to protect you? Did you want me as your father without knowing it yourself?

"Sir?" Scott rose from his chair, closely studying the other man's expression. His father had never shown much emotion where his sons were concerned, but he read obvious concern in Jean-Luc's dark eyes. "I'm sorry about what happened to Remy. We didn't know Creed was sneaking around or we would have kept a close eye on him." He didn't know why he felt the necessity to apologize, but he did.

His rage almost got the better of Sinister. I'm to blame as well. I knew there was bad blood between Creed and Remy and I didn't act, but I won't make the same mistake twice. Forcing himself to act his part, he addressed Scott. "Discussin' who's to blame won’ help Remy. We need to find Creed and reverse de process."

Awed, Charles looked at Sinister. The scientist played his part perfectly. How many years had Sinister watched Jean-Luc LeBeau to perfect his performance? "Logan located Creed and they're on their way back home. I expect them in a few hours."

"Stop feedin' him de sedative," Sinister instructed, trying hard to not sound too authoritative. He didn't want them to grow suspicious. "I want mon fils to wake up."

Scott drew in a deep breath. "The last time he woke up it took three of us to keep him under control."

"Dis time will be different," Sinister whispered. He would use this bond between him and his son to connect with Remy. He was experienced enough to manipulate Remy's thoughts and feelings to gain his trust. "Give de order, Xavier."

Charles told Hank to stop administering the sedative. Hank obeyed, although reluctantly. "How long before he wakes up?"

"I estimate an hour, maybe a little longer." Hank exchanged a concerned look with Warren, as Worthington entered the medlab. Something in Warren's eyes spoke of suspicion and he eyed Jean-Luc wearily, like he didn't trust the Cajun. Hank decided to keep his thoughts to himself.

Sinister pulled up another chair and sat down beside Remy's bed. Surprised, he noticed that Scott had done the same thing. Curiously, he watched as Scott claimed Remy's hand to caress the long, agile fingers. "Is dere somethin' I should know?" The question slipped from his lips unintended, but this had him baffled. He knew that Jean had died and pitied the loss of her genetic material, but luckily he still had some of her tissue samples in his lab and he could continue his experiments.

Scott turned his head away from the other man. He hadn't planned on revealing his feelings for Remy this soon, but he had acted instinctively by reaching for Remy's hand. "I didn't want you to find out this way, sir."

"Find out what?" Sinister leaned in closer. As he studied Summers' face, he tentatively probed Remy's mind.

"I've developed feelings for your son." He bit his bottom lip. I don't even know if Remy wants his father to know and... what if Jean-Luc LeBeau doesn't want a male lover for his son? I'd understand, considering Remy's history on the streets.

Stunned, Sinister almost slipped, but he quickly recomposed himself. Briefly, he had wanted to morph back to his original shape and to question Summers about this development, but as Jean-Luc he had to act differently. "You're in love wit' mon fils?" This was new information; none of his spies had picked up on this one!

"I only found out for myself recently," Scott said, apologetically. "Remy doesn't know yet."

Sinister leaned back in his chair. One revelation quickly followed another. "Remy loves you too? How can you be sure?"

Scott felt hesitant to tell the other man about Jean's recorded messages. "I just know."

Remy and Scott Summers? Sinister didn't know what to think of this one. If one of them had been female, their offspring would have been extremely powerful mutants! Their children would have greatly contributed to his gene pool. It was a pity that both were men!

"Does this bother you?" Scott didn't know how to interpret the other man's silence. Jean-Luc's face didn't reveal much, except for the concern that had been there to begin with.

Sinister managed to act calmly. "I ain' sure, mais we'll see what happens in de future. De only t'ing dat matters now is dat we help Remy recover." It would take Logan and Creed a few hours to get here, which gave him time to gain Remy's trust. The Cajun would wake up in an hour and then he could test his credibility as Jean-Luc LeBeau. Hopefully Remy wouldn’t see through his disguise.

///

Struggling through a slimy dark mass, he finally reached the surface. He gasped for breath, and pulled at the restraints that were back in place. After releasing an enraged growl, he opened his eyes, but quickly closed them again as the bright lights burned his retina. They had tied him down again and he struggled against the bonds.

"Remy, mon fils, listen to me. You trust me, don' you, petit?" Sinister tried to sound calm and hoped his voice carried a warm tone. Addressing Warren, who had been staring at him since his arrival, he asked the X-Man to turn down the lights.

Warren reluctantly obeyed after Charles had nodded his approval. He still didn't trust their visitor. There was a chance that one of their biggest enemies had found a way in.

"Is dis betta? Trust me, open your eyes." Sinister carefully monitored Remy's reactions. Soft growls left the younger man's throat and he was trying to rip the restraints apart. "It doesn' work dis way, mon fils." Collared, Remy couldn't charge his restraints and his helplessness urged Sinister to speak again. "Open your eyes, mon fils and look at me. You know me..."

The soothing, calm voice made him open his eyes and Remy gasped, recognizing the face of the only man who had ever loved him unconditionally. Jean-Luc's features were deeply embedded in his memory and not even Creed's personality had changed that. "Pop...pa?"

"Oui, it's me, Remy." Sinister felt Charles' relief. Looking at the professor, he realized why Charles had been so desperate to talk to him.

Remy's eyes were glued to Jean-Luc's, unable to comprehend why his father was here. He had always felt safe with Jean-Luc and although a dark rage burned inside his soul, he trusted his father to look after him. "What's... w-wrong w-wit' me?"

Scott released a relieved sigh. At last, Remy recognized someone and the Cajun was more coherent than before. He was still holding Remy's hand and held his breath as red on black eyes fastened on him. A series of soft growls left Remy's lips and the Cajun tried pulling back his hand, but the restraints limited his actions.

"Remy, mon fils, he's a friend." His own tone baffled him. When had he started to truly care about Remy, whom he had always seen as just another experiment? And what did this say about Apocalypse's powers? Somehow Remy had made him care again.

Remy hardly dared to let go of his father's familiar eyes, but briefly peeked at Scott's. The growls changed into soft whimpers and he cocked his head, trying to get a better look at Scott. His father was at his side and wouldn't leave him, so he felt safe enough to look away, focusing on feeling his father's fingers caress his hair. The other man looked familiar as well and warmth moved through his mind.

Encouraged, Scott tried again. "Do you remember me, Remy? My name's Scott and we're very good friends." This time Remy's eyes widened, showing curiosity. "Actually, I think we're more than good friends. I... I'm in love with you." Speaking the words actually calmed him. Remy suddenly squeezed his hand, gently, and the whimpering stopped. "Remy, I know you're still in there. You've got to trust us. We're trying to help you."

Remy's gaze traveled back to his father, seeking confirmation.

Seeing the expression in Remy's eyes, Sinister gave in. "He's speakin' de trut', mon fils." He briefly made eye contact with Xavier, signaling that he was pleased with the progress they were making. It's working. He trusts me and he's beginning to trust Summers as well.

Excellent. Charles closed his eyes, establishing contact with Logan. How much longer before you reach the mansion?

Logan cursed softly, as Charles' mind voice disturbed his concentration. Two more hours...

How's Creed?

Unconscious in the back of my car, Logan said, informing Xavier. How's the Cajun?

His father, Jean-Luc LeBeau, has arrived and has gained Remy's trust. Remy's still restrained, but shows no signs of wanting to attack us. I'll contact you again in two hours. Charles terminated the contact and concentrated on Remy again. Suddenly, he noticed the suspicious expression in Warren's eyes. His student's mind was wide open and he gently probed his thoughts, never probing too deeply.

"Everyt'in' will be bien, Remy, your poppa makes you dat promise." Sinister looked up, feeling Xavier probe Warren's mind.

"Poppa... poppa... help me!" Remy's eyes filled with tears and they dripped down his face. Pleadingly he stared at the older man, remembering that his father had saved his life and his sanity before.

Sinister stopped probing Xavier's mind and concentrated on the distressed young man. As he moved to wipe away Remy's tears, he found that Scott had moved faster. Scott was already wiping away the tears and crooning softly, reassuring Remy now that the Cajun accepted him close.

Charles however, gasped. My God, Warren knows! He saw Sinister morph after he helped Remy lower his barriers! Warren knows the truth!

 

Chapter Six - Whole Again

Creed stirred in the back seat and Logan gritted his teeth. Using the rearview mirror, he kept a close eye on his passenger. Creed looked confused and only reacted slowly; he wasn't struggling to free himself of his bonds. Creed merely looked stunned, trying to figure out why he was tied like this. Suddenly, their eyes met and Creed flinched. Puzzled, Logan wondered what was going on in Creed's head.

"Why did ya tie me down? Whadda ya want from me, man?" Creed sat motionless, not even trying to rip the rope apart. Intimidated, he averted his eyes. "Why are ya doin' this to me?"

Logan licked his lips, uncertain what to reply. "Why did ya hurt Gumbo?" Creed's brow grew furrowed, as if he was trying to drag up forgotten memories.

"Gumbo? I don't know anyone called Gumbo."

"Gambit, Remy LeBeau! What did ya do to him? When I entered that cave he tried to attack me!" Creed's eyes had widened and Logan cocked his head, alert and ready to react in case Creed turned violent.

The name unleashed something. Suddenly, he recalled being in that cave and another man had been there as well. He'd had auburn hair and the most curious eyes; red on black. He shivered, pushing those memories away.

"Ya remember, don't ya?" Logan hissed the words. "Whad’d ya do to him?"

Creed decided not to answer any questions. Instead, he wanted to ask some of his own. "Where are ya takin' me?"

"Back to the mansion and don't think ya can gimme the slip. Gambit's in trouble and I'm gonna make sure ya make it to Westchester." Logan bared his teeth, trying to intimidate Creed further. "Sit there quietly and don't gimme any trouble or ya might regret it."

Creed, puzzled, tried to make sense of what was happening. According to this stranger, he had hurt the man with the red on black eyes. What did I do and why did I do it? I don't remember a thing! A sickening sensation in the pit of his stomach made him close his eyes. He couldn't remember ever feeling like this.

///

Sinister was still sitting at Remy's bedside, holding his son's hand. Every so often, Warren approached them and gave him a wary look. Charles had excused himself and had left the medlab. Hank was in his office, working on his research. They were waiting for Logan and Creed to arrive and in the meantime there was little they could do. Scott had fallen asleep in his chair and Sinister now focused on Warren, who stood in front of him.

Warren decided on the direct approach. "I saw you change back after Remy released his depression."

"What are you talkin' 'bout, homme?" Sinister acted carefully, unsure how much Warren knew.

"You can stop pretending to be Jean-Luc LeBeau. I know who you really are... Sinister." Warren's eyes hardened, fully aware of the risk he was taking.

Sinister cocked his head, trying to figure out Warren's game plane. "I don' know what you're talkin' 'bout."

Warren laughed, mockingly. "You can pretend all you want, but I know the truth. Why are you doing this? I thought you hated Remy's guts. After all, you set him up when he led the Marauders into the Morlock tunnels. And now you're here, pretending you care?"

Sinister's pupils deepened and briefly red replaced Jean-Luc's eyes, revealing his true nature. "Don't get involved in this." The warning was icy cold, telling Warren to butt out.

"I knew it!" The red eyes had given Sinister away and Warren prepared himself for the worst possible scenario. "I want you to step away from Remy."

Sinister shook his head. "You have no idea what's really going on. Cross me and you'll regret it, Worthington."

Mystified, Warren backed away from Sinister, knowing how powerful the other mutant was. "Why? Why is Remy this important to you? Why are you acting like you care? You lost the ability to feel..."

Their conversation was distressing Remy, who began to move restlessly. The young Cajun was still restrained and Sinister acted at once, using his own telepathy to soothe his son's anguish. Remy calmed down again and Sinister glared at Warren. His eyes were Jean-Luc's again.

Warren was still missing a piece of the puzzle and was determined to solve the riddle. "I'll keep my eye on you, Sinister..." Walking toward Hank's office, Warren considered everything he knew. I will figure this one out!

///

Sinister realized he had been found out, but he couldn't leave now. For some reason he was chained to Remy's side. He still hadn't figured it out completely, but right now his first priority was making sure Remy recovered and Creed was punished. Looking over at Scott, he felt relieved that the other man was still asleep. He didn't want them all to know who he really was. It was bad enough Warren knew.

Feeling trapped, he looked at their joined hands. Remy's fingers were tightly curled around his, holding on to him. Unwanted memories of his firstborn son returned to him. The child had died at a young age and he had tried to revive the boy. Was this his second chance?

We need to talk, Charles sent as his hoverchair reached the exam table Remy was resting on.

Startled, Sinister looked over his shoulder. He was slipping; he hadn't heard Xavier approach. Worthington knows my real identity. Do something about it. Once he tells the others I can no longer help Remy.

I plan to do just that, but... how much do I tell him? What do I say if he wants to know why Remy's this important to you? I doubt he'll believe it's because Remy's one of your experiments. Your concern is real to everyone. Finding out that Sinister truly cared about Remy had baffled even him. Didn't Apocalypse take away your feelings?

Yes, he did, Sinister replied thoughtfully. I can't explain it either. Recalling Xavier's original question, he sent, I don't want Worthington to know that Remy's my son. Make something up, I don't care.

I'll do my best, Charles promised, steering his hoverchair to the office where Warren and Henry were drinking coffee. Let me handle this.

Sinister once more focused on Remy, who was still sound asleep, even without being sedated. Creed will be here in a few minutes and then we'll reverse the process, Remy. And once you're sane again I'll make sure Creed pays for what he did to you.

///

"Turn right, Creed." Logan was guiding Creed through the corridors. They were on their way to the medlab and Logan remained alert. He still expected Creed to pull something on him. Creed's hands were tied behind his back and he wondered why Creed hadn't torn the rope apart yet. It would be easy for Creed to break free. He still didn't believe the amnesia story. Creed was a good actor when it suited the maniac best. "Are yer memories already comin' back?"

Creed flinched. Yes, they were, but he had no desire to share them with the other man. The memories resembled nightmares, showing him his victims, which he had slowly tortured to death. Others he had killed quickly. I don't want to remember...

Professor? We're here, Logan informed Xavier.

Excellent.

The med lab doors opened and Logan pushed Creed inside. "Get movin'."

Creed's eyes grew big, seeing the restrained form on the exam table. Auburn hair... and as the eyes opened, he recognized them. Red on black...

"No!" Collapsing on his knees, he ripped the rope apart and clutched his head in his hands. "No..." The memories rushed back, and he staggered on his knees, reeling under their impact. He remembered everything; his parents, his father who made him eat the rabbits that had become his friends. He remembered killing his parents when the bloodlust had overwhelmed him... Birdie... and his plan to force Remy to take her place... His plan had backfired.

Remy reacted violently, pulling at the restraints. The leather cut his skin and droplets of blood dripped down his wrists. He was in danger! Growling ominously, he tried to sit upright, but the restraints kept him back. Charging the restraints was impossible because he was still collared and his fear and rage increased.

"Remy, mon fils, look at me." Sinister reacted at once, blocking Remy's view of Creed.

Scott, who had startled awake, quickly left his chair and sat down on the side of the bed. "Listen to your father, Remy. We're here to protect you. You're safe, safe!"

Sinister reached out telepathically and managed to calm Remy down. The young Cajun was whimpering again and looked up at him pleadingly. "Your ordeal's almost over, mon fils."

Remy grabbed Scott's hand and nearly crushed it. Scott, growing pale, quickly tried to reassure Remy as well. "It's going to be okay. We need Creed in order to help you, Remy. I love you and I promise that everything will be just fine."

Charles, Warren and Hank joined them. Watching Creed closely, Charles cautiously probed Creed's mind, finding no rage at all. "Do you know what happened?"

Creed's face contorted. "I don't know what went wrong. I wanted him to take away the bloodlust, feel the glow 'gain... Birdie made me feel so good and..." Creed stared at Remy's burning orbs. "I don't want it back. I'm finally normal... I want to be normal. I don't want to be an insane maniac..."

"I'm afraid you don't have a choice," Charles said firmly. "These feral instincts are yours, not Remy's..." Creed started to protest, but Charles raised a hand to silence him. "In return for your cooperation I promise to help you find a way to control your instincts."

Creed shook his head. "I don't think so."

Sinister, who had been quiet until now, rose from his chair, but Remy was clinging to him and wouldn't let go of his hand so he couldn't advance on Creed. Standing next to the exam table, he stared into Creed's eyes.

Creed returned the stare, not recognizing the stranger. "What?"

"You'll cooperate or face me." Sinister was tempted to reveal himself to ensure Creed's cooperation, but couldn't; Remy still needed him.

"Make me..." Creed threatened.

"That can be arranged, bub," Logan grabbed Creed's wrists and forced them behind his back. Hank helped him restrain Creed and together, they dragged Creed closer to the exam table.

Fully awake, Remy stared at them. He sensed the danger, remembering Creed's ugly visage and the hurt the other man had inflicted on him.

"Don' struggle, mon fils," Sinister advised, squeezing his son's hand. After making eye contact with Charles, he nodded his head. Let's do this. I'll make sure Remy's walls are down.

Charles concentrated and sensed Creed's mental defenses, which were stronger than he had imagined. He hated invading Creed's mind against his will, but Remy's well being hung in the balance. I'm ready, he informed Sinister.

Logan didn't loosen his hold on Creed when the other men grew motionless. He had seen the professor work his powers before and knew from personal experience that Charles would release Creed from his mental hold once he had attained his goal and he wanted to be ready when Creed turned aggressive.

Sinister leaned in closer until his lips rested against Remy's ear. "Listen to me, mon fils. Trust your poppa and lemme in... I'll take care of you..." Remy's weakened barriers crumbled and Sinister pulled Remy's mind closer to his. I'm ready, Xavier. His barriers are down.

I'm ready as well. Creed isn't cooperating, but I'll manage. Let me take the lead.

Agreed, but I'll monitor everything closely. Sinister caught Warren's perplexed gaze, hoping the other man wouldn't figure out his connection to Remy.

Remy trembled violently when Charles initiated contact. Feeling Creed's mind again, he released a keening wail. He reached out for his father, but Jean-Luc seemed pre-occupied, not noticing his distress, so he turned to Scott. "W-whats... hap-penin'?"

"Let the professor do his job, Remy. They're reversing the process. Just hang in there and everything will be fine." Scott leaned in closer and cradled Remy's head in his hands. "We can undo the restraints shortly, Remy. Don't fight this." While squeezing Remy's right hand, his other hand tangled in the long auburn hair. "Yes, that's it," he crooned, seeing Remy's eyes widen.

Charles suddenly felt Sinister reach out as well, strengthening the temporary link. At first, he feared that Sinister had a hidden agenda, but when the scientist supported his effort to reverse the process, he accepted the help. He knew that Sinister was a telepath, but had never thought he was this powerful. Together, they completed the link.

"Remy? Mon fils, let go..." Sinister looked into Remy's startled eyes. Rubbing the inside of Remy's wrist, he guided the alien part of Remy’s personality down the link until Charles took over, pouring it into Creed's mind, where it belonged.

Creed reacted instantly, trying to free himself of the restraining hold. His eyes burned with rage and he howled loudly. "Lemme go! Take yer filthy hands off of me!"

"Logan!" Charles distanced himself from the link that still existed between Sinister and Remy. "Take Creed to one of the holding cells and make sure he doesn't escape. I'll talk to him later." He planned to honor the promise he had made; he would help Creed control his urges, but first he had to ensure Remy's safety.

Remy stared blindly at the ceiling. His breathing was labored and his hands were open; the claws and fists gone.

"Remy? Remy!" Scott didn't wait for Charles' permission to undo the restraints and freed the Cajun. "Hey, Remy, talk to me. Look at me, show me you're okay!" He enfolded Remy in his arms and gently pulled the Cajun into a sitting position. Remy's head came to rest on his shoulder and he tenderly rubbed the other man's back. "Remy?"

Remy shook briefly, then settled down again. His eyes focused on Jean-Luc and Charles. Warren was standing to his right, looking shell shocked. "What happened?"

Scott's sigh echoed through the room. "Thank God, I hoped it would work, but..." Pulling back, he managed to catch Remy's gaze. "You're back, Remy..."

"Back?" Remy frowned. "You'd betta start makin' sense, Cyke."

"What's de last t'ing you remember?" Sinister slowly released the hold he had on Remy's mind, realizing his son's memory showed dark holes.

Remy swallowed hard. "Creed knockin' me off de bike... den everyt'in' turns blurry. Why am I in de medlab? And poppa, what are you doin' here?" And why is Scott holdin' me?

Sinister exchanged a look with Charles and decided to tell Remy the truth. "You absorbed Creed's animal instincts."

A memory flared and Remy shivered. "I scratched his face..." Looking at Warren, he cringed, seeing the distinct marks on his face. "'Msorry," he mumbled, his face hidden against Scott's shoulder. "Didn'wannadodat..." His words were muffled, but the apology was evident. He felt weak and confused. If it hadn't been for Scott's closeness and acceptance he might have panicked.

"I t'ink it's safe to take de collar off," Sinister remarked, piqued that Remy ignored him and completely focused on Scott instead.

"Collar?" Remy's hands went to his neck, where he encountered the Genoshan collar. "Oui, please take if off."

Scott quickly removed it and concentrated on Remy again. The Cajun's breathing was irregular and shallow, his alien eyes draped and Remy was avoiding meeting his gaze. "Why don't you lie down?" He feared Remy might pass out after all.

But Remy's eyes had found his father's. "Poppa? What are you doin' here? Shouldn' you be in N'Arlings?" His eyes followed the hand that came to rest on his right arm. What was Jean-Luc doing here? "You always know when I need you... how?"

Sinister almost smiled, almost. "Your professor called me. I came as fast as I could, mon fils." The tide of feelings that washed over him utterly confused him. There was relief, happiness and even a twinge of loneliness and jealousy.

"Will you stay, poppa? Please stay a li'l longer..." Remy averted his eyes before making his next admission. "I need you..."

Privately, Sinister cursed the bond that existed between them. "Oui, I'll stay, mais not for long."

"I know, poppa, de Guild needs you." Remy felt drained and slowly lay down. Staring at the restraints, he shivered. He felt the welts around his wrists. They had restrained him! "'Mtired..."

"Then go to sleep, Remy. You father will still be here when you wake up again and so will I." Remy's eyes closed, but the Cajun never released his hand. "Yeah, that's it. Get some sleep and when you feel rested we're going to have a long talk."

Warren's eyes locked with Sinister's. He didn't know what to make of the scientist's behavior. After his talk with Charles, he had agreed to keep quiet and refrain from telling Remy the truth. He trusted Charles to make the right decisions; he only hoped Remy wouldn't be hurt again.

///

"I wanna go back to de boathouse now," Remy whispered, stubbornly. After learning what had happened these last few days, he was desperate to put some distance between himself and the other X-Men. Although Warren didn't seem angry about him scratching his face open, he didn't feel comfortable being this close to him. Maybe he should apologize again?

"A penny for your thoughts," Scott said, handing Remy a pair of jeans and a red shirt.

"Should I ‘pologize to Warren 'gain? I don' remember attackin' him... or you, mais I did and..." Remy bit his bottom lip, knowing he was babbling. He was still trying to come to terms with the fact that he had threatened his friends and he felt relieved that he didn't have any memories of these last few days. They were an almost complete blank, almost. The one thing he did remember was being restrained to the exam table and scratching Warren's face.

"He knows you didn't do it on purpose." Scott said, reassuringly. He stared at the bandaged wrists. The restraints had left welts, which hadn't closed completely yet. Except for the bandaged wrists, Remy looked like his normal self. But he's still recovering from the shock. He's just putting up a front... and I see right through it! And damn it, he forgot I kissed him! Now I have to take that first step again.

Remy disappeared into the bathroom to change his clothes. Staring into the mirror, he cringed. He had attacked his friends, had drawn blood. Why had it been so easy for Creed to get into his mind?

"Remy? Are you okay? Don't forget Jean-Luc is waiting for us at the boathouse."

"Oui, I remember," Remy whispered. He had not really believed his father when Jean-Luc had agreed to stay a little longer. The last few times his father had vanished on him. After slipping into clean clothes, he combed his hair and brushed his teeth. Feeling fairly decent again, he joined Scott only to find Hank standing next to the other man. "Henri?" When had Hank joined them? "I'm free to go, ain' I?"

"Yes, you are, but I want you to continue to rest." Hank had mixed feelings about letting Remy go. He really wanted to keep the Cajun in the medlab, but Scott had promised to look after Remy and he had given in. "No strenuous exercises, Remy."

Remy actually managed a smile, slipping into the sneakers Scott had brought. "I promise to behave, Henri." His skin grew hot, and he knew he was flushing bright red. He wasn't used to being fussed over and the experience made him feel warm and welcome.

"Scott? Ready to go?" He wanted to leave the medlab as quickly as possible and join Jean-Luc at the boathouse where they had some privacy.

"Yeah." Scott smiled reassuringly. He had tried to bring up Creed once before and Remy had completely shut down. Creed was the professor's problem right now. Logan was guarding the maniac and Xavier would doubtlessly try to help Creed. This no longer concerned Remy. The Cajun had suffered enough. "Let's go. We shouldn't keep your dad waiting."

Remy shrugged into the coat that Scott handed him. "Is it dat cold?"

"No, but I'm not taking any chances," Scott said, recalling Remy had been shivering lately.

Remy waved good-bye to Hank and shyly made eye contact with Warren, who had just stepped out of Hank's office. Remy mouthed 'Msorry' and then quickly exited the medlab. Warren didn't radiate any anger and Remy sighed, relieved. Maybe he could still make things up to the other man. Hopefully dere won' be any scars. I scratched his face pretty bad.

"Remy?" Scott pulled Remy into the correct direction when the Cajun absentmindedly took a wrong turn. "What are you thinking about?"

Remy shook his head. "Rien, not'in' important." He felt shy, realizing Scott had hung in there with him the entire time. Hank had told him that Scott had never left his side. Scott's devotion amazed him... and puzzled him. Maybe later he would get a chance to ask Scott why he was staying close.

A cold wind hit his skin and he quickly sped up, falling in step with Scott as they covered the distance to the boathouse. "Merci for de coat. It's cold after all."

"You're welcome, Remy." Scott stared at the sky, wondering how to bring up the kiss and his feelings. Maybe he should wait until Jean-Luc left? Some privacy would make things easier. "Would you like to have dinner with me tonight?" Scott gulped, realizing he had asked aloud. Stupid! He just went through something very traumatic and wants to be near his father!

Did Scott jus' ask me out? Remy stared at his shoes. Must be imaginin' t'ings... Peeking at Scott, he frowned. Was Scott really blushing? Did somet'in' happen dese last few days when... when Creed controlled me? Confused, he desperately tried to remember what had happened, but his mind remained blank.

"You don't have to," Scott said, quickly. "I'll understand perfectly if you want to spend time with your dad now that he's here."

He's scared I'll reject him! Fear of rejection clung to Scott and Remy blinked his eyes. "Non, Scott, I'd love to have dinner wit' you... I jus' didn' expect de invitation."

Scott glanced at Remy. He accepted the invitation... Swallowing hard, he barely restrained himself from folding an arm around Remy's form. These last few days he had done a lot of holding and comforting the Cajun and the instincts were still there, urging him to show his feelings, but he couldn't, not yet. First, he had to find out if Jean was right and if Remy really was attracted to him.

///

Sinister felt trapped inside the boathouse. Why had he promised to stay? I want Creed in my lab... want to punish him for what he did to my son!  Maintaining this form didn't cause him any problems; he was more concerned that he would forget to use the accent.

Hearing voices, he walked to the front door and opened it. Scott and Remy were standing in front of him and his son was actually smiling at him. Remy flung himself at him and his son's arms buried him in a tight hug. He froze briefly, then forced himself to act as Jean-Luc would.

"Remy, mon fils, you look betta." Remy didn't release him and he started to feel uncomfortable. When had someone hugged him for the last time? My wife did... but she has been dead for so many centuries...

"Poppa, I missed you so bad... Can' believe you're here..." Remy's words were muffled, as he continued to cling to his father. "You're always dere for me when I need you most... merci."

A lump formed in Scott's throat. Remy only seemed to let go when Jean-Luc was close. I want him to trust me like that. I want to be there for him when he needs support. How can I convince him I'm serious? Well, telling him I've got feelings for him might be a good start.

Sinister cleared his throat and was relieved as Remy finally pulled back, loosening his hold. "Come, sit wit' me, mon fils. Tell me what's wrong." He guided Remy toward the couch and sat him down, ignoring Scott for now.

Scott closed the door and disappeared into the kitchen, realizing Remy and Jean-Luc needed some privacy and busied himself with preparing dinner.

Sinister observed Remy closely and frowned, seeing the bandaged wrists. "I never wanted you restrained."

"I know dat, poppa, mais you didn' have a choice, I understand." Remy smiled blissfully. "I'm so glad you're here... I need you right now."

"Mais you've got Scott," Sinister said. He wouldn't stay much longer and wanted to soften the blow.

"Scott?" Remy's brow grew knitted. "I don' understand, poppa. Oui, Scott's a friend, mais..."

I can't believe I'm going to play matchmaker... Sinister sighed privately. But he needs to know there's someone he can rely on. I can't stay... I need to return to my research and... Revenge fantasies swept through mind. Creed was going to pay for hurting Remy!

"Poppa?" Confused, Remy looked over his shoulder at Scott, who was setting the table. It was a good thing Scott couldn't hear them.

"He's in love wit' you, petit. Why do you t'ink did he stay at your side?"

"Mais he loves Jean!"

"Jean's dead..." Sinister shook his head, hardly believing he was doing this. "Talk to Scott. Tell him how you feel and you'll find he feels de same way. Trust your poppa, Remy." He felt proud; not even Jean-Luc would have done a better job!

"Mebbe I should talk to Scott den?" Remy was reluctant to believe his father, but Jean-Luc had never lied to him.

Sinister nodded approvingly. "Do it now, Remy."

Remy rose from the couch, looking at his father for encouragement.

"Go on, you can do it, Remy." I'm driving him into Summers' arms... what am I doing? And why does it feel so right?

Remy was halfway to the kitchen when the phone rang. "I've got it!" he told them and picked up the phone. "Salut?"

"Remy! Mon fils! C'est bon to hear your voice! Sorry I didn' contact you any sooner, mais de Assassins been keepin' dis old man busy!"

Remy froze, forgot to breathe and his eyes nearly bulged from their sockets. "What?"

"Remy? Tante wants to say salut aussi, got a moment?"

"Non..." The phone slipped from his fingers and crashed onto the floor with a bang.

"Remy?" Alarmed, Scott hurried toward the Cajun. Remy looked deathly pale. "What happened? Who called?"

"Non... don' do dis to me..." Remy slowly turned about and stared at the man on the couch. "You ain' Jean-Luc LeBeau..." His father had just spoken to him on the phone and he had heard Mattie on the background, telling Jean-Luc to hand her the phone. "Who are you?" He grabbed Scott's arm to support himself. Shaking his head, he began to tremble as the intruder advanced on him. "Who are you?"

Scott had no idea what was going on, but he rested his hand at the small of Remy's back, lending the Cajun physical and emotional support.

His disguise was useless now and Sinister considered morphing back to his real form, but Remy's mind was still fragile... Facing this dilemma, he stood in front of his son, staring into Remy's eyes. "You know who I am..."

"Remy? What's going on? Talk to me." Alarmed, Scott tightened his hold on Remy, who shook violently.

"He ain' Jean-Luc LeBeau..." Remy whispered the words, shaking like a leaf.

"He's not?" Scott frowned. "Remy?"

Remy moistened his lips. "It's Sinister..." He gasped as Sinister morphed into his true form. Red eyes stared back at him and he flinched, once more reminded that they were father and son. Scott's gonna figure it out and den... I won' be welcome here any more...

Scott was ready to use his optic blast against their enemy and pulled Remy away from Sinister, stepping protectively in front of him. "What do you want, Sinister?" Why was Sinister playing head games? Hold on, he actually helped Remy release Creed's instincts... why help Remy?

Sinister grinned, turned around and opened a tesseract. He would collect Creed before returning to his lab, where he would continue to monitor Remy from a distance. Without speaking another word, he disappeared, leaving Remy and Scott behind.

Remy collapsed on the couch after the tesseract closed. Scott was holding him and whispering reassuring words. "I don' understand..."

"I don't understand it either," Scott said honestly. He wanted to add more, but the phone rang and he picked it up from the floor, handing it to Remy. "That's probably for you."

Remy's fingers trembled, answering the call. "Poppa?"

"Remy! What happened? De connection was gone and... are you bien?"

"I'm fine... poppa," Remy whispered, confused. "Can I ask you somet'in'?"

"Mais oui!"

"Did we ever talk in a cemetery in New York?" Remy's heart pounded madly. So many things depended on Jean-Luc's answer!

"Non, I don' remember comin' to New York..."

Remy's heart missed a beat. His nightmare was coming true. "What 'bout seven mont's ago? Did you come to Westchester to talk to me?" If Jean-Luc wasn' de one talkin' to me at deir grave, who was? Who talked me into lowerin' my shields when Scott's depression controlled me? Please say you were dere!

"Non, Remy. I haven' even left N'Arlings dese last few mont's. Mon fils?"

Remy swallowed hard. It was Sinister... Sinister talked to me after I left Mike... talked me into lowerin' my shields... was dere for me when Creed's urges controlled me... why?

I don't know why, Scott replied. Maybe you need to ask him?

Startled, Remy realized that Scott had received his thoughts. Merde, he had forgotten to shield them, but maybe this was for the best.

"Remy?" Jean-Luc sounded truly concerned. "Did I catch you at a bad time?"

"Oui, you can say dat... Can I call you back later?" He needed some time to process the truth. It was Sinister who had helped him, not Jean-Luc!

"Mais oui, don' wait too long, mon fils."

Remy terminated the call and stared at the wall. Sinister helped me, not Jean-Luc...

Remy, you know I'm receiving your thoughts?

Oui, can' lock you out... not now... can' concentrate.

Remy, do you have any idea why Sinister helped you? Scott wasn't sure he wanted to know, but Remy needed to talk about this. He rubbed Remy's arms, pulled the Cajun's back against his chest and rested his head on the other man's shoulder. Remy didn't pull away and he held his breath, waiting for the moment when Remy registered how close he really was.

Remy couldn't lie, couldn't hide the truth any longer. Emotionally, he felt drained and naked. "Sinister is my fat'er, my biological fat'er..." Scott froze and he cringed, waiting for the other man to push him away now that the truth was in the open. "De one t'in' I never told you was dat he sired me himself... he killed my mot'er... wanted my DNA for his experiments... saved my life 'caus he didn' want to lose access to my DNA... why did he pretend he cared? I don' understand..."

Scott let him rave, and merely held on tighter. "Remy?"

"When I found out, I didn' want to believe him, mais... de eyes, you know... I've got his eyes and..." Remy almost choked on the words. "I'm his son... You no longer want me 'round, do you? Can pack my t'ings and leave right now..." He erected his shields again, keeping Scott's thoughts out, not wanting to feel the other man's loathing.

Shocked, Scott tried to deal with this new information. Sinister's his father... and Remy expects to be kicked out... things never change. "Remy? Listen to me?" He whispered the words into Remy's ear and gently rubbed the Cajun's arms. "There's something you need to know. I should have told you some time ago, but..."

Remy only now grew aware of Scott's tight hold. He squirmed in the embrace until he faced Scott. The damn visor was hiding Scott's eyes and he felt lost, unwilling to peek at the other man's feelings. He refused to invade Scott's privacy like that.

"I developed certain feelings for you. I... I'm in love with you. I want to make this work and I know Jean wants this to work."

"How?" Remy shook his head. "Jean's dead..."

"She left messages for me... she told me you’ve had this crush on me for years." His heart throbbed heavily and his stomach was doing somersaults, almost leaving him nauseous due to nervousness. "Was she right? Do you love me?"

"Loved you for years," Remy admitted, sincerely. Lying wouldn't get him anywhere and he wasn't sure he could lie while being this close to Scott. The other man's arms were still wrapped around him, and encouraged, he added, "Mais never made a move on you... you loved Jean."

"I'll always love Jean. She'll always be in my heart, but there's room for you too... if you want me," he added hesitantly. "I know this is unexpected, and you're still shook up about learning that it was Sinister and not Jean-Luc who helped you... but..."

Remy raised his right hand and placed a finger against Scott's lips, shutting him up. "You can' love me, cher."

"But I do..." Scott smiled. "We even kissed already."

"Huh?" Puzzled, Remy cocked his head. "I'd remember dat."

"One time you charged the restraints and broke free. I had to do something to stop you and... I kissed you." Scott grinned, as Remy's eyes grew big. "Do you remember now?"

Remy blushed, as that particular memory returned to him. "You kissed me and... I said your name. I didn' know who you were, mais when you kissed me..."

"I'd like to do some more kissing... if that's okay with you," Scott whispered seductively and cradled the back of Remy's head in the palm of his hand. "Do you want this to work? Because I do..."

Scott moved closer and Remy sighed blissfully, as soft lips brushed his. Oui, want dis to work, mais are you sure you know what you're gettin' yourself into? I'm trouble and Sinister...

We'll deal with Sinister together.

Remy closed his eyes as Scott deepened the kiss. I never t'ought dis moment would ever happen...

It's happening, believe me. Scott smiled. Privately, he addressed Jean. Thanks Jean, thanks for showing me the way... thanks for kicking my ass and telling me to choose the living and to love again. I won't disappoint you... or Remy... I promise.

///

Sinister materialized in Creed's cell and grinned, as Creed startled awake from his light sleep. "You'll do nicely for the experiment I've got in mind."

Creed stared at Sinister. "What are ya talkin' bout? And how did ya get passed their security system?" Sinister moved unexpectedly and the scientist's hand locked around his throat, crushing his larynx.

"An eye for an eye..." Sinister whispered ominously. Footsteps echoed behind him and he looked over his shoulder, fearlessly meeting Logan's eyes. "Stay out of this."

Logan growled and wanted to move forward, but Sinister was even faster and stepped into the tessseract, dragging a choking Creed with him. The tesseract closed and Logan stared at an empty cell.

///

Creed's eyes bulged and his fists banged against the container. Sinister had locked him up in here and he drifted in icy cold water. Electricity traveled through the water, shocking him. He wanted to scream, but the gag prevented it.

Sinister laughed. "Eternity is too short a time for you to pay for your sins..." After raising the voltage, he nodded his head as Creed's body contorted with pain. "This is only the beginning... your suffering will be eternal..." Turning about, he shut down the lights and left this part of the lab.

Creed was still screaming his soundless agony... but no one heard him...

 

Chapter Epilogue - Trust

"Good morning, handsome." Scott teasingly licked the nape of Remy's neck. Lying spooned behind the Cajun, he inhaled his lover's scent, loving the slightly spicy fragrance of Remy's cologne.

"Mornin', cher." Remy yawned, stretched and then rolled onto his other side so he was facing Scott. "Still can' believe I'll wake up in your arms for de rest of my life."

Scott caressed Remy's cheek and then traced the outline of his lover's luscious lips. "I know what you're trying to say. It feels surreal to me as well. God, I'm so lucky to have you."

These last seven mornings they had woken up in the same bed, holding each other tightly. It didn't bother him that they hadn't had sex yet. He wanted to deepen their relationship first and not hurry their lovemaking. Things would happen once they were ready to take that step. Although it's getting harder to ignore my hormones... I feel like a horny teenager again!

Remy gave Scott a wicked grin. "Cher?" The sheet did little to hide Scott's morning erection and he felt tempted to take care of it. Would Scott let him? "Wanna make you feel good," he whispered seductively while slipping his hand beneath the sheet. He paused in his movement, awaiting Scott's permission.

"Only if you want to." Scott licked his lips. When he couldn't sleep at night, he wondered about their future love life. Remy had been through a lot at a tender age and he didn't know how comfortable Remy was with the idea of going all the way so he had decided to let his lover set the pace.

"Oui, I wanna." Remy leaned in closer and pressed a passionate kiss on Scott's lips. He curled his fingers around his lover's erection and pumped slowly, wanting to make this last. "Cher, can I ask you somet'in' personal?"

Scott bit his bottom lip. I can't believe he wants to talk right now when he's... that feels nice...

You like dat, cher? Teasingly, he quickened his strokes. His tongue licked its way down to Scott's nipple and after lavishing the first erect nub, he gave the other nipple the same treatment, suckling softly. Scott bucked and panted softly. "Close?"

"Too close..." Scott arched his back, fucking Remy's hand and finally released his come with a blissful moan. "Oh, yeah..." Closing his eyes, he sighed contently.

"What's de color of your eyes?" Remy wickedly milked his lover's cock dry and then used the corner of the sheet to wipe Scott clean.

"Huh?" Scott stared at Remy. "What?"

"Your eye color..." Dreamily, Remy stared at his lover's face. "De visor and your glasses 'ways hide your eyes..." Lazily he rolled onto his back, and with legs spread wide, he stared at the ceiling.

Scott elbowed himself into a sitting position. Remy had dropped the dirty sheet onto the floor and he now had an excellent view of his lover's naked body. He's hard as well... I wonder, can I return the favor? He was nervous, but was determined to follow Remy's example. Slowly, his right hand traveled down Remy's chest, leaving caresses in its trail.

Remy cocked his head and looked at him, questioningly.

"Is it okay if I...?" Scott didn't know how to phrase the request. Instead, he gently touched Remy's cock and stroked experimentally.

"Mais oui." Pleasantly surprised, Remy smiled and pressed deeper into the comfort of the mattress. Remy knew Scott had never been with a man before and he realized how awkward and new this must be for his lover. "Mais you didn' answer my question." His breath caught as Scott cupped his balls, massaging them gently. "Oh, mon amour..."

Remy's pupils dilated and Scott leaned in closer to presses kisses on his lover's chest, briefly teasing Remy's belly button with the tip of his tongue. Remy wiggled, squirmed, protested and Scott finally obliged him, returning to pumping his lover's erection. "They’re brown."

"Brown?" Remy smiled, rested his hand against the back of Scott's neck and pulled his lover in for a kiss. After releasing Scott's lips, he smiled. "Merci for tellin' me."

"Why do you want to know?" Rolling an erect nipple between his fingertips, Scott realized that he loved seeing Remy's squirm. His lover's balls tightened, he arched his back and Remy released a soft moan as a white, creamy liquid flowed over his hand. Scott rewarded his lover with another kiss, chasing Remy's tongue until the Cajun yielded to him.

Sated, Remy's expression grew draped with fulfilled passion. "Jus' wish I could have seen dem... jus' once... My empat’y tells me what you feel, mais I miss lookin' into your eyes to see it confirmed." He didn't add that he hated the ruby glasses with a passion.

Scott grabbed the already soiled sheet and cleaned them up. Remy's words made him wonder... "Remy, I want to get away from the mansion, just for a few days. There's a cabin, only a few hours away from here... would you spend the weekend with me up there?" He was babbling, stuttering and felt nervous because of the direction his thoughts were taking. "I want to... want to make love to you, but not here. I want our first time to be special..." Remy's perplexed look puzzled him. "What? Did I say something wrong?"

"You wanna make love to me?" Remy swallowed hard. "Cher, are you ready to take dat step?"

"I'm sure," Scott reassured him. "I don't know how to explain it, but... I love you and I want to be with you." He desperately hoped Remy understood. "I want to complete our bond..." He felt excited about making love to Remy, to a man. Hormones!

"I understand, cher. I feel de same way." Remy blushed. "Dese last few nights I've been dreamin' of makin' love wit' you."

"You have?" Scott grinned. "Tell me about it?"

Feeling shy, Remy shrugged his shoulders. "I don' have dat much experience eit'er." He refused to think about Hugo right now. Hugo didn't count. "I've only been wit' one homme before... his name's Mike and..." Remy paused, gathering his thoughts. "Mais t'ings would be different wit' you... want to feel you inside me."

"Remy, are you sure about that?" He didn't want to bring up Hugo or Remy's life on the streets. "Do you think you'd be comfortable being...?"

"Bein' de bottom?" Remy nodded his head firmly. "Oui, I do. Why?" He read the question on Scott's face. "Cause I trust you. I never trusted anyone like dat before... Oui, Jean-Luc, mais he doesn' count... dis is 'bout trustin' lovers and Jean-Luc's... poppa."

"What about... flashbacks? Aren't you afraid that...?" Scott grew silence when Remy rested a finger against his lips and let his lover talk.

"I ain' afraid, cher. Dat's de point I'm tryin' to make. I know you love me... I know you'll never hurt me. Oui, it's only been a week, mais... I'm an empat'. I never wanted to be one, mais right now I'm happy to be one." Scott's feelings were close to the surface and constantly assured him of Scott's love and affection for him.

Dazed, Scott tried to find the right words. "I trust you too, Remy, but..."

"No ‘but’ cher... I dealt wit' my past. I trust you." Remy smiled, pressed his lips against Scott's and suckled the other man's bottom lip. With a soft 'plop' he released the bruised lip. "Mebbe at de cabin?"

"Maybe," Scott whispered, giving in. "Why don't you start packing? I want to leave first thing in the morning." Cuddling up to Remy, he folded his arms around his lover. But first I need to talk to Hank...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Are you ready to go?" Scott placed his duffle bag in the trunk of the car and leaned against it, watching Remy gracefully make his way toward him. It was hot and the Cajun was only wearing a silk shirt and tight jeans... Way too tight.

"Merci, cher. I'm glad you like my ass," Remy said teasingly, receiving Scott's thoughts. Wickedly, he wiggled his ass while throwing his duffle bag next to Scott's.

"You're going to be the death of me," Scott remarked, pretending annoyance. "Get your ass in the car, Gambit."

Remy grinned and sat down on the passenger's seat. "Hope you don' mind me takin' a nap... Someone kept me up all night..."

Scott keyed the ignition and snorted. "If I remember correctly it was you who wanted a repeat performance..." Seductively, Remy had moved against him last night, and he had accepted the invitation. Pumping slowly, they had brought each other to orgasm.

Remy opened one eye and raised an eyebrow. "Moi? I'm innocent... I didn' do a t'ing!"

Scott decided to give in gracefully. Although he enjoyed the verbal banter, he had to concentrate on the road. He had been to the cabin only once and he didn't want to get lost.

Scott?

Yes, Remy? The one thing he had noticed about Remy was that his lover used telepathy when he wanted to address a sensitive issue.

Shouldn' be askin', mais... when you were at de cabin... were you 'lone? If Scott had been there with Jean, going back to the cabin might evoke unpleasant memories.

You want to know if I took Jean there. Although he was comfortable with discussing Jean, Remy still seemed hesitant. No, Alex took me there once. I've never been there with Jean. That's why I want to go there. I want it be our place... A place where we can go to unwind and just be... ourselves.

You're creatin' memories...

What? Scott glanced at Remy. "I'm doing what?"

"In a few weeks' time we can say, 'Remember bein' at de cabin?' You're creatin' memories... places, moments dat belong to us, only us." Remy averted his eyes and stared at his hands, which were resting in his lap.

Scott didn't really know what to make of Remy's remark. "Is that a good thing?"

"Oui," Remy sighed, relieved, and smiled weakly. "It's a very good t'ing."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Four hours later, they finally arrived at the cabin. Curiously, Remy explored their temporary home and found it quite luxurious. "It even has a Jacuzzi!" There was one master bedroom on the first floor and Remy threw his duffle bag onto the bed. "What do we do now?"

Scott shook his head, marveling at Remy's display of energy. "It's still a bit early to fix dinner. Maybe we can go for a walk?" Scott deposited his duffle bag as well and Remy followed him outside. "Why am I feeling like a teenager?" He had the absurd desire to hold Remy's hand while taking that walk.

"Bein' in love does strange t'ings to people," Remy wisecracked and promptly grabbed Scott's hand, gently rubbing its knuckles. "Is dere any food?" Together they briefly searched the kitchen.

"Looks like it." Scott was pleased to find the shelves stocked. "Maybe you can make some Gumbo tonight?" Remy's brilliant smile took him aback.

"Sure." Remy pulled Scott toward the doorway. "And later we can..." Rocking his hips, he left little to imagination.

"You horny little Cajun!"

"Hey, I resent bein' called li'l!" Remy pulled Scott close for a kiss. "And afterwards, I wanna lick my dessert."

Remy's teasing remark went straight to his cock and Scott moaned softly. "Horny devil, you..."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"You're an excellent cook, Remy. Never had better Gumbo in my life." Remy blushed and he realized it was because he had complimented the Cajun. Hey, it's the truth! It was obvious that Remy wasn't used to compliments and he was determined to render that.

"Merci..." Remy pushed back his chair and rose to his feet. "Can I have my dessert now?"

Scott couldn't deny his lover. The expression in Remy's eyes spoke of nothing but desire and love. "Sure, you can have your dessert." After rising from his chair, he walked over to the Cajun and folded his arms around him. "Why don't you warm the bed for me?"

"You ain' joinin' me?" Worried, Remy frowned. "Somet'in' wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong," he quickly reassured Remy. "I just want to clean up in here. I'll join you in five minutes and you'd better be naked..." Brushing Remy's lips, he hoped his lover didn't pick up on his white lie. He had to do something before joining his lover in bed, but it wasn't cleaning up the kitchen.

Still worried, Remy gave in. "Don' take too long." Why was Scott stalling? Had he changed his mind? "We don' have to..."

"Remy, I want to make love to you, please believe me. Just give me those five minutes."

Sighing, Remy turned around and climbed the stairs to their bedroom. "Five minutes, cher, or I'll be back to haul you upstairs..."

"Duly noted." He waited until Remy had disappeared into their bedroom before uncovering the little package he had hidden in one of the cupboards. Opening it, he stared at the necklace inside. I'm doing this for Remy... for us. His hands trembled as he removed the necklace from the case. After taking a deep breath, he slipped the necklace over his head and hesitantly removed his ruby glasses. Then he climbed the stairs to join his lover.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Remy didn't know why he felt nervous. Scott wanted this as much as he did, so why did he feel shy when he slipped beneath the covers? It was the thrill of being with a new lover for the very first time. He had only once before felt thrilled in this way and that had been when he and Mike had made love, but now the roles were reversed. Scott would be on top and that was just the way he wanted it. He wanted Scott to make love to him, relished handing over control for the moment. Lately, he wanted to be spoiled, to be taken care of, and to be cherished and he had read the desire to spoil him rotten in Scott's mind.

He had faced his personal demon in the Danger Room when Scott had recreated Hugo as a hologram. The pain and fears no longer haunted him and he felt ready to take the next step... finally.

"Remy?"

He looked up, hearing the uncertainty in Scott's voice. "Oui, cher?" His eyes fastened on his lover's face and he forgot to breathe, staring into hazel brown eyes. "What? Cher? Scott...?" Stuttering, he stared into Scott's eyes. His eyes! Mon Dieu! His glasses are gone and I can see his eyes... Mon Dieu, dey're beautiful... mais I don' understand! His optic blast should have devastated de cabin by now!

Remy, it's okay. Scott hurried over to the bed and sat down beside his lover. "Hank helped. He has been researching the Genoshan collars and... this necklace... it acts like one. It just doesn't look as horrible as the collars do." Remy was still staring at him, shocked. "Remy, breathe!"

Remy drew in a deep breathe. "You're wearin' a collar? Why?"

"You wanted to see my eyes, didn't you? When you asked about my eye color I felt the desire behind the question."

"And you asked Henri to make dis necklace? For me? You did dat for me?"

"Don't start crying, Remy, just don't!" Scott cringed, seeing Remy's watering eyes. "Hey, this was supposed to make you happy!"

"I jus' don' understand why you'd do it..." Remy raised a trembling hand and rested it against Scott's cheek. "Oui, 'ways wanted to see your eyes, mais..."

"I want to make you happy and if seeing my eyes makes you happy, that's what I'm going to do. It's okay, Remy. I'm okay with this."

"Mais your powers!" Remy shook his head in disbelief. Cautiously, his fingertips caressed his lover's eyelashes. The soft lashes ghosted against his skin and he sucked in his breath. "You did dis for me?"

"For us, Remy..." Realizing it was time to take action, he leaned in closer and kissed Remy. After bringing his hands up behind the Cajun's back, he gently lay his lover down. "Are you sure about this, Remy?"

"Oui," Remy sighed blissfully. Scott's naked skin moved against his, causing him to grow erect within seconds. Scott had given him the ultimate gift; he was finally able to look into his lover's eyes. Spreading his legs, he waited for Scott to settle between his thighs. "I want dis..."

Scott took his time, caressing his lover's body, worshipping it. His tongue left a wet trail down Remy's chest and he pressed kisses all over his lover's belly. Last night, Remy's assurance that they didn't need any condoms had made him wonder and he had insisted that they both got tested. After Hank had given them the results, he had agreed with his lover. "No barriers, nothing will keep us apart."

Remy arched his back as Scott showered the insides of his thighs with kisses. "Cher, please... won' last long." Clutching Scott's head between his hands, he smiled, seeing the passion in his lover's eyes. "Please... make love to me..." Foreplay was keeping him from attaining his true goal, which was feeling Scott inside him. "Want you."

Scott nodded his head. "You'll have me, Remy." When Remy reached for the lube, he batted the Cajun's hands away. "Not yet... I want to try something."

Remy's breath grew ragged as Scott's tongue lapped at the head of his erection. "Oh, mon coeur, what are you doin' to me? Gonna come if you keep dis up!" Scott suckled at the slit and Remy released a strangled moan. "Too close, cher, too close!"

Scott grinned, pleased that he was making Remy squirm and plead. "I want to try one more thing..." Moving down Remy's thighs, he slid his hands beneath his lover's buttocks.

Remy jerked as Scott licked his way to his little pucker. "Mon Dieu!" Scott had taken him by surprise; never expecting Scott to rim him. His lover's agile tongue probed his opening, slowly dipping inside. "Cher, please... Don' wanna come and leave you behind!"

Urged on by Remy's needy tone, Scott finally grabbed the lube and squeezed a generous amount onto his finger. "I'm new at this, Remy... I want you to tell me if I do something wrong. I don't want to hurt you."

Remy nodded his head. "Want dis, really do..." He grabbed a pillow and pushed it beneath his hips to give Scott easier access. "Mon Dieu, want dis so bad... never t'ought I'd ever want dis so bad..." Scott's finger slid inside and he moaned low in his throat. "Oui, more..."

Scott licked his lips, never losing his concentration. Remy seemed relaxed, but he wasn't taking any risks. Sliding in and out of the hot passage, his finger encountered a nub and Remy arched his back when his fingertip stroked it.

"Mon Dieu! Scott... more, more, now!" Dazedly, Remy stared at his lover.

Scott obliged and stroked the gland once more. Remy whimpered softly and he realized that his lover was on the edge. Any more stimulation and Remy would come. He pulled back, added more lube and returned with two fingers. This time he avoided hitting Remy's prostate and concentrated on preparing his lover. "Do you think you're... you're ready?" Although he tried to radiate calm and control, he felt insecure. He had never been with a man!

"Oui, am ready," Remy quickly assured him. "Ease inside... don' force it..."

Scott curled his fingers around his cock after quickly coating himself with lube and positioned himself at his lover's opening. "Ready?"

"Oui," Remy sighed. His eyes locked with Scott's and he never released the hold he had on those magnificent brown orbs, as his lover carefully pushed inside. The guardian ring yielded and his toes curled as Scott eased in deeper. "Oui, oui..." Pushing back, he panted softly as Scott's balls hit his skin. "Inside, inside me... mine..."

Scott blinked; he needed a moment to process everything. "Remy, I'm..." Looking down at their joined bodies, he blushed. "I'm inside you..."

Remy grinned. "Oui, you're mine now..." He wrapped his legs around his lover's waist and enfolded Scott in a hug. "Move... make love to me..."

Scott buried his face in Remy's locks and established a slow, lazy rhythm. After changing the angle, he heard Remy gasp and realized that he had found the right position to hit his lover's prostate with every stroke.

"More, faster..." Remy panted, pushing back to meet each of Scott's thrusts.

"No," Scott whispered and maintained their slow and comfortable rhythm. Looking at his lover, he found that Remy had closed his eyes. "Hey, look at me, Remy."

Remy's eyes flashed open. Meeting Scott's, he was overcome by the love in them. "Mon coeur..." Scott's slow, deep thrusts set him on fire and he managed to slide one hand between their bodies to pump his own cock in rhythm to his lover's thrusts.

Scott licked his lover's skin beneath the collarbone and aimed for Remy's prostate... hitting it hard. His lover rocked beneath him and hot cream shot against his stomach. His eyes widened as Remy's inner muscle contracted around his cock and the sensation pushed him over the edge. "Re... my..." Climaxing, he whispered his lover's name, trying to express the love he felt.

Panting, they stared at each other and Remy reached up and brushed his lover's lips. "Je t'aime, mon coeur."

"I love you too, Remy." Scott returned the kiss and deepened it, trying to make up for Remy's loss as his sated sex slipped from his lover's body. Satiated, but exhausted, he collapsed beside his lover.

"Merci for dis gift..." Remy kissed his lover's eyes, showering them with feather light kisses. "No one ever... no one... never... before... until you..."

"What are you trying to say?" Scott quickly cleaned his lover and then pulled up the comforter. Remy was shivering and he was growing cold as well. Cradled by the soft comforter, the warm cocoon supplied a safe haven. Remy's draped eyes stared back at him.

"Rogue... we could have touched if she had worn a collar, mais she refused... no one ever gave me such a gift. You're de first who really loves me..." He hated bringing up Rogue, but he wanted Scott to understand. "You really love me..."

 "Yeah, I do, Remy." Scott enfolded his lover in a tight hug. "And I don't mind wearing the necklace... I love the expression in your eyes when you look at me..."

 Remy closed his eyes and rested his head against Scott's chest, snuggling up to his lover. For the first time in his life, he felt happy, truly happy and loved.

 

Go on to Return to Innocence or to the alternate ending Nine months...

Go back to Part2