Chapter 8 Proposal

Chapter 8

I do not own Twilight, Marvel, X-Men, or Magneto comics/movies. 

Bella smiled as she observed from afar. Charles was training a few of his students outside the manor. She couldn’t help but to found herself star struck, all over again. He was so precise in his words and teaching. That and his students seemed to key in on his every word. In fact, she was so mesmerized… She hadn’t a clue about the mutant standing directly behind her. No one had, not even that of Xavier. He was too focused on his students. By the time she felt his presence, it was too late. She whipped around and shot out her hands in attempts to shield herself. But the mutant grabbed her by the arm and flung her about like that of a rag doll. Xavier and the students snapped their heads that direction, just in time to see her sailing back. The ground shook as the mutant marched his way towards her. Xavier grimaced as she was crawling amongst the ground, her shoulder clearly dislocated. Pietro was late to class as usual and exited the manor just time to see what the others were. He tilted his head and began his calculations. Once he had everything mapped out he took off. What seemed like forever to Bella was only the matter of seconds. Quicksilver had planned everything just right and was able to get her and the students out of harm’s way. He scooped her up, just as Juggernaut punched through the area she was originally in. Whatever he did triggered the massive mutant to fall backward.

Erik had driven up, just in time to see the aftermath. He saw that his son was carrying Bella and checking her over. Bella went to move her arm but let out this agonizing cry. Pietro grimaced and looked towards his father. Erik rushed on over but pivoted back around as Juggernaut was back on his feet and charging right for her.

“TAKE HER AND RUN, BUT KEEP IN MIND SHE IS WITH CHILD!” Erik shouted and Quicksilver nodded as his father held the massive mutant off.

“YOU SIMPLEMINDED FOOL! DID I NOT WARN YOU ALREADY?! YOU LEAVE ME NO CHOICE!”

“NO ERIK!” Charles shouted from afar knowing exactly what that meant.

That wasn’t Erik talking. No. That was Magneto.

“Shouldn’t we help?” Wanda questioned with a touch of alarm to her voice.

Charles sighed looking somewhat conflicted on what to do. He wasn’t quite ready to have his students facing someone of Cain’s caliber. Then again… Simpleminded or not Juggernaut was one hell of a powerhouse. Just as he was to give his students the go ahead, he paused, and reared back in disbelief.

Magneto was bending the metal around Juggernaut’s body.

“Everyone inside!” The professor ordered.

“But…” Wanda started to argue.

“Do as he says!” Her father called back and sent her a disciplinary glance.

She frowned but followed the others inside. Just as Charles turned back around, Juggernaut had uprooted a tree and was heading right for Magneto. Magneto was so focused on taking Cain’s armor out, he wasn’t aware of just how close he’d gotten.

“ERIK!” Charles shouted.

He ignored this and gritted his teeth.

“Just a little more!”

“WATCH OUT!”

Magneto dodged the tree but doing that put him right in Juggernaut’s path. He let out a groan as Juggernaut slammed his head right into his gut, thus knocking the wind out of him. Juggernaut kept up the raging bull charge and Charles looked on in panic. He knew that Cain could break Magneto’s back or worse. He had to find a way out of his deadly clutch and fast. Just as he was about to get slammed into a car, he lifted into the air. Charles grimaced seeing the pain in Magneto’s eyes as he managed to bring Juggernaut along with him. It took all his concentration and it was weakening him to carry someone of Cain’s stature. Magneto did the only thing he could think of. He continued in warping and bending the metal around his body and he did this until it broke off piece by piece, during which he took a few hits here and there. But thankfully it wasn’t to Juggernaut’s fullest potential as he was holding back, for whatever reason. Magneto cocked a brow as another realization came to play. Juggernaut kept looking towards the distance as if expecting someone. He nodded amongst himself and lifted up even higher. But he couldn’t hold it much longer as he wasn’t in his suit and it took twice the amount of concentration – using what he had around him. The magnetic field from the earth itself was starting to fade and it was getting harder to control. That and this was still very new to him. It wasn’t that long ago he discovered that he could do this without his suit.

“ERIK!” Charles shouted as Magneto’s eyes started to roll back.

“YOU MUST COME DOWN, NOW!”

His head swayed about and he lowered back down. Just as he was to reach for what was left of Juggernaut’s helmet, the mutant took off.

“Erik!” Charles called as his eyes came to a close and he hit the ground.

---

“I didn’t know you had a girlfriend.”

“She’s not my girlfriend, mom. Now please just let us in.”

The woman nodded and stepped aside. Pietro darted over to the couch and laid Bella down. He knew he had to take extra precaution with how fast he moved, due to her pregnancy.

“Oh my… what happened to her shoulder?!” His mother questioned in alarm.

Pietro found himself wishing he hadn’t brought her here after all. But at the time it was the only place he knew where she’d be safe. He knew Juggernaut wouldn’t think to look for Bella here. Though he could just imagine the look on his father’s face, once he found out…

---

“Why do you hate me?” Were his father’s first words when Pietro opened the door.

“I don’t hate you, pops!”

“I was hoping you were joking over the phone…”

“Why?” Pietro questioned while putting on this innocent front.

This had Erik rolling his eyes.

“Where is she?”

Pietro stepped aside and pointed towards the couch. Erik nodded and headed that direction. Pietro’s mother cut him a look of utter disbelief.

“It’s you…”

He nodded but didn’t comment as he went on to check on Bella.

“Why are you here?”

He didn’t answer as he was focused on giving the infant another ‘charge’.

“She’s another child of yours, isn’t she?!”

“Well I should hope not… considering she’s with child.”

“Yeah dad knocked her up.” Pietro announced.

“I bet you two would get along great!” He added with a smirk.

Erik lifted his eyes upon his son and shook his head in a scolding manner.

“What?!”

Erik ignored this and got Bella situated.

“Deep breath…”

Pietro and his mother grimaced as Erik snapped Bella’s shoulder back in place. Bella let out this painful cry directly after.

“Do you happen to have some ice and a sling?”

His son vanished and within seconds he returned with an armful of useful items.

“That never gets old…” His father remarked looking to be in awe.

Pietro smiled.

“Thanks!”

Erik regarded Bella with concern however as she was unusually quiet. In fact, she wasn’t so much as looking at anyone. She kept eyes on the ceiling. Erik ripped the sleeve to her dress and put the ice on it. He gave it time to set while he got the sling prepared.

“Ella…” He finally said.

Still she wouldn’t look upon him. Bella closed her eyes as he worked on her shoulder.

“Would you say something? At least let me know you’re alright.”

“How many…?”

He reared back and Pietro narrowed his eyes in wonder.

“How many?” Erik questioned.

“How many lives did you take?!”

Pietro grimaced and Erik sighed. As for Pietro’s mother, she looked confused.

“I can’t believe you worked with that… that monster!”

She’d picked up a vision when she came into contact with Juggernaut. She saw his hatred for mankind and he hadn’t any issues in taking life. But through him she also saw where there was a time Magneto was just the same – if not worse. She’d seen where he was leading The Brotherhood and they stood against anything that had to do with humans. They were no better than the ones that stood against their rights at this very moment. The very ones she fought against. Sure, he’d made it clear he had a shady past but actually seeing it play out – jacked with her mind.

“You were aware of this already…” Erik made clear.

She said nothing as she made her way off the couch and towards the front door.

“And just where do you think you’re going?”

When she wouldn’t answer he used his gift to lock the door so she couldn’t leave.

“You’re on several hit lists at the moment. I don’t think that would be very wise.”

“I should be OUT THERE! FIGHTING AGAINST ONES LIKE YOU!”

“And just what is that supposed to mean?”

“It was never about mutant or human rights, Erik! It was about everyone as a fucking whole. You have so much anger and resentment in you. I mean seriously… How in the FUCK did you manage to put your holier than thou dick in US?!” She shouted and pointed to Pietro and Wanda’s mother.

“We’re nothing. Disposal. It’s just as Charles said… Mutants were meant to inherit this world and FUCK the rest of us, right?”

Pietro’s mother looked to him and Erik wide eyed. Her son let out a rather nervous chuckle and shrugged.

“That was then… This is now. I can assure you.”

“Assure me what exactly? How do I even begin to explain this to our son?! If he even makes it that far! I mean did you explain it to him?” She gestured towards Pietro.

“He didn’t have to. Found out the hard way awhile back. Not a pretty sight.” His son admitted.

Erik curled his lip at this.

“I told you there were things about me… things you wouldn’t take a liking to. I cannot change the past all I can do is make up for it. Can you NOT see that?!”

“I’m trying! But let’s face it, if you hadn’t knocked me up. I wouldn’t be a part of your life. I would’ve become some distant memory, same with her. It’s always been Raven!”

He reared back in wonder. What Bella hadn’t told him was vision she’d had when she came into contact with Raven. She had done her best to push it aside and kept it to herself. But now everything felt like a hair trigger. She kept seeing the two of them fucking and bashing humans during.

“What does Raven have to do with any of this?”

“I don’t know, Erik. You tell me. We’re only pawns after all, right?”

Erik looked on in disbelief. He thought back to that particular conversation. It wasn’t long after what had taken place in 1973, when he and Raven had sex for the first time. They were drunk and discussing the many ways of ending mankind and inheriting the world as they made love. At the time it was a mere stimulate and what he and Raven considered ‘pillow talk’. Something they did often. He just never dreamed he’d be standing here answering for it now. Even more so in front of a one night stand and his teenage son.

“How are you seeing all this?!” He snapped in frustration.

“I don’t know! But I’m not sure I can take much more. I mean honestly, do we even have anything in common, other than the child I’m carrying? You say you love me but HOW!? How can you look at me and feel anything?!

“Ella… I…”

“YOU WHAT?” She spat with hatred in her eyes.

Erik shook his head and marched on over. He backed her up against the door then placed his hands along it so he had her fullest attention.

“Do you think I was wasting my breath at that rally? That everything I said was complete nonsense? What would be the purpose of that? I do not say one thing and mean another. And I will NOT have you questioning my every motive; nor will I stand here and coddle you with these insecurities!”

“Insecurities?!”

“You mention Raven… as if she’s still in the picture somehow, when I made myself PERFECTLY clear. I get that you are young and have been through a great deal as of late, but do not treat me like I’M the enemy. I have gone ABOVE and BEYOND in order to prove myself and frankly… It’s getting rather tiring and I do not appreciate this constant need to repeat myself and riding along this little carousel in which YOU’VE created throughout this entire relationship! Now I love you, Ella. But I will NOT kneel to you, just as you wouldn’t to me. You once mentioned how you’re not one to play games. Well neither am I! You’re either in or out! That is your decision, not mine. So tell me… what will it be? And stick to a fucking decision this time!”

Bella closed her eyes and Erik shook his head.

“LOOK ME IN THE EYES AND TELL ME WHAT IT IS YOOOU WANT?!” He roared.

“I FUCKING HATE YOU!” Bella shouted in response and was staring him down.

He gave a mere nod and opened the door.

“Then you should go.” He said and gestured for her to go on.

Pietro looked to his father in disbelief.

“Pops…” he whispered in alarm and Erik held up a hand.

“I will send for Toad and have him keep an eye on things, until you’re safe and sound, back at the manor. If you wish to be free of me then I will not fight you. I will take care of you and our child, even if from afar. I’m willing to let go in order for you to move on and seek whatever happiness you’re after. My only regret is that you couldn’t find it with me.”

Pietro noticed the wounded look on his mother’s face. Yet at the same time she regarded Bella with utmost respect. He made his way over and hugged his mother then quietly led her out of the room. Bella pinched her eyes shut and Erik merely waited.

“All these memories…” She whispered.

“I don’t understand. How am I seeing all this?”

“I haven’t an answer for that. Believe me, I wish I did. It is rather peculiar.” He found himself wondering if it were somehow Charles’s doing. Was he triggering something within her or was Charles himself responsible?

“So what will it be, Ella? Are you ready to go all die mutie on me? Perhaps you’re to form your own sisterhood?”

He leaned against the doorway and waited for an answer.

“That sisterhood is looking better and better. And it wouldn’t be die mutie… Die Maggie sounds more legit in this case.”

“That the best you got?”

She cut him a look of utter hell and he couldn’t help but to chuckle.

“I want this to work, Erik. But I haven’t the faintest as to how or where to even begin.”

“If you wouldn’t fight me every step of the way…”

“I don’t know… Seems as if the great Magneto needs a good fight. He’s getting a little rusty.”

Erik sighed and leaned into her ear.

“You wouldn’t stand a chance. He’d wipe the floor with you then laugh in your face.”

“Ugh… Really, Erik?”

“What am I going to do with you, Ella?” He said but in a loving manner.

He took her by the hand then pulled into his arms.

“I couldn’t fight him. I just stood there. All I did was prove her right.”

He sighed knowing where she was going with this.

“You were brutally attacked. That’s enough to shake anyone even a mutant like myself. To top it off you are with child. You’re going to be emotional, it’s to be expected. I’m surprised you’ve held up this long. As for Cain… it is best you didn’t fight back. He tends to thrive when pushed too far. There is no shame in needing help from time to time, Ella. It doesn’t make you less of a being.”

“Are the students and Charles okay?”

“They’re quite alright.”

Bella ran her fingers along a cut on his cheek.

“Looks like he roughed you up a bit.”

“Nothing I couldn’t handle.” He uttered in cocky like manner.

“Oh?”

Erik nodded and used caution as he checked on her shoulder.

“How’s it feeling?”

“Hurts like a bitch…”

“You know for such a stunning young lady… You’ve got quite the mouth.”

“Come now, Erik. I don’t see you complaining.”

He raised his brows on the rather flirtatious pitch.

“So you go from wanting to kill me to references of oral pleasure?”

“Hormones… you said so yourself.”

“Hmmm…”

“So is that mutant still after me or what?”

“Not at the moment. That’s not to say he won’t make another attempt. Just keep a watchful eye and go nowhere alone.”

Erik kissed her then put his forehead to hers.

“My apologies and I don’t mean just on the behalf of Cain, but for everything.”

“And what about ‘Magneto’?”

“Him too.”

“Even if he despises me?”

“On the contrary… He’s quite taken with you.”

Bella managed to smile even through the tremendous amount of pain she was in. It didn’t help that she was beyond hungry and thirsty.

“What is it?” He questioned as she got all teary eyed again.

“I never got my burger.”

Erik had a good laugh at this.

“Well I suppose we had better get you that burger.”

---

“Erik, I have a responsibility. I can’t turn my back to everything; not when I’ve come this far.”

“I can understand that. But we simply cannot ignore the fact that you have become a target. And we’ve to take our child’s wellbeing into consideration as well.”

Bella sighed and looked out the patio door as if lost on what to do.

“I can’t hide forever…”

“No one’s expecting you to. Things just need to die down a bit.”

“I haven’t got in touch with my boss or anything. I mean hell… I doubt I even have a job to go to.”

Erik walked on over and wrapped his arms around her waist. He rested his head along her shoulder.

“I somehow doubt that. Everyone saw what took place. I’m sure he’s more concerned than anything. I get how important this is, not just to everyone involved but to you as well. And believe me I am taking that into consideration. However, you and this child are my first priority. So you’ll have to excuse my selfishness when I say fuck everyone else and let’s focus on you for once.”

“I can’t do that.”

“Ella… They murdered your friend, you nearly miscarried, and at the moment… You are in no shape to be going anywhere. You were attacked not even a day ago. Give yourself sometime to recover. And I don’t mean just physically but emotionally. You need this.”

Erik ran his hands along her tummy and kissed along her neck.

“I’m not keeping you here. You are free to come and go as you wish. But I strongly advise against it. If you wish to take care of some things back at the office, I will be more than happy to accompany you. This way I know you are in good hands. If you do not wish for me to tag along then I’m more than certain Morti or Charles will offer their services.

“I thought you had other matters to tend to.”

“I do but it can wait. I’ll head out first thing tomorrow morning. That way we have the rest of today to get your affairs in order.”

“Fine.”

“Fine…?”

“As in you can accompany me.”

“Delightful, I’ll grab our jackets and perhaps a flask…”

“I’m drinking for two now, Erik…” She taunted in response.

---

Erik shook his head as there were twice as many protestors standing before the building now.

“Stay close…” He murmured once the taxi came to a stop.

He was first to step out and went to shield her, the instant she exited the car. Erik rushed her inside but felt as though he were protecting the president; they were making such a big fuss about her sudden appearance. Even from inside he could hear them chanting her name. But she didn’t seem to take notice. She was on a mission and heading straight for Mr. Allison’s office. Erik kept a watchful eye of their surroundings and stayed close.

“Miss. Swan!” Her boss proclaimed as he saw her at his doorway.

Bella gave a mere nod and pulled the door to once she entered. Erik waited outside. Mr. Allison got on his phone and dialed his receptionist.

“Hold all my calls please.”

He hung up directly after. The man leaned back and folded his arms about his chest.

“Now where have you been?”

“About… Keeping low-key for now.”

“Hm. I was beginning to worry. It’s been awhile and I’m not the only one. Mr. Johnson was just here yesterday, looking for you. He was beginning to wonder if he needed to alert the police or send out a search team.”

Bella let out a nervous laugh.

“Not quite, just a few close calls…”

“Looks as such.” He gestured towards her shoulder and the bruises along the rest of her body.

“So I take it you’re ready to get back to work?”

“Actually, I came here to talk.”

“About?”

“I’m afraid I have no choice but to take a step back for a bit.”

“What a disappointment.”

“Excuse me?”

The man cleared his throat and adjusted his tie.

“Do you believe the President of the United States would call it quits if his life were in danger?”

Bella raised her brows on this.

“That’s a bit of a jump in comparison, don’t you think?”

“Not really. You have just as much impact. And I do believe people take more of a liking to you than that of the president.”

“Um… thanks. I think. Still that’s rather awkward to hear – all the same.”

“Yes, well this makes twice that you’ve disappeared without so much as word as to why. Only this last time… you were actually on my payroll, Miss Swan.”

“With all due respect, I’m technically on Mr. Johnson’s payroll. But I can see where you’re coming from and do apologize.”

“And that’s supposed to fix everything? A mere apology? Let me guess, you think we can go back to the way things were…”

Bella drew back a breath on this.

“No. I never said or even insinuated that. In fact, I’m here to apologize and to let you know I will be giving one last speech, letting the public know that I am taking a little break.”

“BREAK?!”

“Yes, Mr. Allison. I need to put the safety of my child first.”

“And you continue to disappoint… I didn’t peg you as the type.”

“Type?”

“I hardly deem pregnancy as a reason to step down and flat out give up!”

“I’m not giving up. Like I’ve told you already there have been too many close calls. I nearly lost my son and I cannot take that chance again.”

“Pregnant women work every day. Why should you be any different? If anything YOU have more of a reason to stand up and fight. I never thought I’d see the day where Isabella Swan – the face of mutant rights cowers down!”

“Cowers down?! Are you kidding me?!”

“That’s what you’re doing, is it not?”

“Hardly! I never said this was a permanent situation!”

“Yet you just did!”

“WHEN AND HOW?”

“By taking ‘a break’. You’re not even six months into your pregnancy and yet here you are, making excuses! You look just fine to me!”

“I have a life outside of this! One I have to take into consideration!”

“And you merely assume that you will have a spot to come back to?! Ratings are dropping as it is and they have been since your absence. The only time they skyrocketed was when Magneto stepped up to the plate.”

“Oh my god…” Bella whispered in comprehension.

She looked upon Mr. Allison and started to laugh.

“That’s all you’re concerned about, isn’t it?!”

“And what would that be?”

“The fucking ratings! You want that cash flowing in and you don’t care how you go about it!”

“How dare you come into this office and use that tone with me. And for you to even think I was going to give you that ‘break’ was a joke in itself. This is a job, Miss Swan. You have no say in whether you come or go and how long of a break you get before coming back. I HAVE THAT SAY!”

“Not anymore you don’t!”

“Oh?” He challenged.

“I came here in hopes of making some sort of agreement. But I can see that’s not going to happen. You already have me pegged.”

Bella dug into her purse and tossed her employee ID onto his desk.

“I will be back one day but you can rest assure it won’t be under your wing! Good day, Mr. Allison!”

“If you think YOU’RE walking out on me, think again. I WILL RUIN YOU! Don’t you even THINK about getting a recommendation from me! You are fired, Miss Swan! And that will go down in your record!”

“You can’t fire me when I…”

“On the contrary, I most certainly can. You’ve missed how many days of work and without so much as a call?!”

“I’ve been in touch with Mr. Johnson since my near miscarriage and he said nothing of the sort!”

“And I’ve talked to him since as well and I must say I’m not the only one disappointed.”

“Well may the two of you continue in your disappointment, perhaps over coffee? Or a local bar even. I could give a FLYING FUCK WHAT EITHER OF YOU THINK OF ME! MARK MY WORDS, MR. ALLISON. I WILL BE BACK AND YOU’LL BE SHITTING YOURSELF AND WISHING YOU HAD GONE ABOUT THIS DIFFERENTLY. AND WHEN YOU COME CRAWLING BACK BEGGING FOR MY RETURN; I’M GOING TO LAUGH IN YOUR FUCKING FACE AND REMIND YOU OF WHAT A COMPLETE AND UTTER DICK YOU WERE!”

Bella slammed the door on the way out and Erik cocked a brow. He’d heard everything loud and clear and it took EVERYTHING within him not to march on in there and knock some sense into the bastard. Bella was right. He was far more concerned with those dollar signs and ratings than that of her wellbeing. Bella darted on out of the building and Erik had his magnetic field going in order to keep her guarded. The crowd was even bigger than before – meaning that word of her arrival had spread. He couldn’t believe the sheer amount of people. Just as he opened the door to the cab a limo pulled up. The back window rolled down and a hand stuck out waving them over. Bella narrowed her eyes in wonder. Erik shoved one of the reporters back as they were getting too close for comfort.

“Erik…” Bella softly scolded.

“Not taking any chances.” He made clear.

The driver of the limo got out and opened the door for them.

“Mr. Johnson…” Bella uttered in surprise as he was sitting in the back.

He gave a simple nod and scooted on down so that she and Erik could slide on in. Once they were inside, the driver shut the door and the senator rolled up the window.

“It seems I have luck on my side after all!”

Bella regarded him in question.

“Running into you that is. I was passing by when I saw you and made a detour. I do believe lunch is in order.”

“You seem rather chipper…” Bella said with a touch of bitterness.

This had the senator raising his brows.

“Well I haven’t seen you in sometime. I suppose I’m just happy to see that you’re doing alright. For the most part that is… Were you attacked?”

Bella nodded.

“I’m very sorry to hear that. But you’re okay now?”

“Yes.”

“And the baby?”

“He’s fine.”

“Good. I’m glad to hear that.”

“Maybe this isn’t such a good idea…”

“Pardon?”

“You are aware that I quit, right? Or according to Mr. Allison I was fired.”

Mr. Johnson froze and had this baffled presence about him.

“Fired?!”

Bella nodded.

“Well I don’t believe that was his decision to make. And why on earth would you quit?!”

Bella drew back the deepest of breaths.

“If it’s time you need I can most certainly give you that. I know you’ve been through a lot as of late. But please note that your absence has affected many.”

“The only concern you or Mr. Allison have is a paycheck.” Erik severely muttered.

Bella cut him a warning glance and the senator gave a simple nod.

“After Mr. Allison’s behavior, I can most certainly see why you’d believe as such. I cannot speak for Mr. Allison. But I will say that is not the case here. I happen to care about Miss. Swan’s safety. As to why I’m more than willing to offer whatever time she needs. During which I will pay compensation. After all, you nearly miscarried while on the job. It’s the least I can do. Please do not let Mr. Allison’s actions steer you away. You are needed Miss. Swan. In fact, YOU and the mutant known as Magneto.”

Erik glanced the senator’s direction.

“I heard the speech you gave on Miss. Swan’s behalf. And though I must admit I’m somewhat envious, I can see why she turned my advances down. It seems as if the two of you share something quite remarkable and no one’s getting in the way of that. I can most certainly respect that. The two of you seem to complement one another – much like that of a yin yang. You’ve come a long way, Mr. Lehnsherr. How you managed to gain clearance since the JFK trial… is beyond me. But here you are… and with this magnificent young lady.”

“JFK trial?” Bella questioned and Erik rather sighed.

“A story for another day…”

The senator regarded the two with utmost surprise.

“You mean to say you are unaware?”

“Unaware of what?”

Erik pinched the bridge of his nose. He truly felt as if he were having the worst luck as of late. Like everything around them was out to tear them apart.

“I beg your pardon but how could you not know? It was all over the media and quite a big ordeal.”

“What was?!”

“Why the assassination of the US President of course!”

“Oh well yeah… I knew about that… Oswald.” She murmured with a shrug and looked out the window.

Erik grimaced and Mr. Johnson let out a laugh of disbelief.

“I do not believe what I’m hearing. Did you have her memory wiped somehow?” He said in a jesting manner, but Erik was none too pleased, or in the joking mood for that matter.

But he decided he might as well go about it like that of ripping off a Band-Aid.

“What he means to say is that I killed JFK or so that’s what everyone believes.”

“Wait… what?!”

“Hm, yes… well if you wouldn’t mind I wish to discuss this later, in private.”

“You killed JFK?!”

“It would seem so, now wouldn’t it? But as I said it’s what everyone believes. Apparently, not in your time…”

The senator tilted his head on this.

“It appears as if I’ve opened up a can of worms. My apologies.”

“Anything else I should know?” Bella hissed.

“Nothing comes to mind at the moment. If it does you’ll be the first to know.” Erik witted in return.

“I should hope so.”

The senator cleared his throat.

“Yes well… how about that lunch? I have some matters in which I’d like to discuss, with the both of you.”

‘Lunch’ ran for a little over three hours. The three of them discussed the politics between mutant and human kind and whatever else came to mind. Erik got the sense that Mr. Johnson wanted to get the feel in where they stood exactly. After they finished hashing everything out, the senator had a proposition of sorts. But to Erik’s surprise, it was more for him than that of Bella. Mr. Johnson wanted a new senator. Not just anyone but someone to take his place when the time came. And he wanted a mutant – someone like Erik and he thought that Bella could help represent him and help him with his campaigning etc… Once the Mr. Johnson was done going over everything he envisioned. Erik died of laughter. This brought an unamused look about the senator.

“I seem to have humored you…?”

“Quite so actually. You do remember our little mention back in the limo? You know the one involving a particular president? I recall doing TIME for that.”

“Well Mr. Lehnsherr, you’re free to walk amongst us now, are you not? If you’re capable of that, then you are by far capable of getting elected. Especially, with this little gem by your side. She’s a miracle worker – that one. And if she puts her mind to it, she could make you the president of the god damn United States. Your days of the JFK trials would be forgotten and no one would so much bat an eye.”

“I’m afraid you’re putting entirely too much faith in me, Mr. Johnson.” Bella remarked.

Erik tapped his index finger along his cheek and was eyeing her a certain way.

“What?”

“You should run…” Erik threw out there.

Bella wrinkled her nose on this.

“Um thanks, but no thanks. I’m quite comfortable with what I’m doing now. Besides, if I’m going to get your crazy ass voted in then I’ve more than my fair share of work cut out for me.”

The senator smiled on this.

“So we’re in agreement?!”

Erik leaned back and looked to be in thought.

“Me? A senator?”

“If we’re to relieve some of that fear behind homosapiens then it’s time we go big and get one of you into office. Miss. Swan and I will be doing everything within our power to get you in. All you gotta do is prove that you have what it takes, in the public eye. Oh and try not to kill the president. That’s always a bonus.”

Bella snorted on this.

“That might be a lot harder than you think. This one seems to have a bit of a temper.”

“So I’ve heard.”

---

“What’s this?” Bella questioned as the senator handed her something on the way back.

“Just a little something from your fans…”

“Fans?!”

He nodded and Bella gawked at the stack of envelopes.

“I figured they were safer with me rather than growing dust in that office of yours.”

Bella opened one of the letters and read it. She lifted her eyes and regarded the senator in disbelief. She said nothing as she opened another. The senator kept quiet and merely observed her reaction after reading a handful. Before long, tears were streaming down her face. Sure there were a couple threatening letters here and there. But eight out of ten went on about how much of an inspiration she was, how much she alone had changed their lives, and a few even admitted that it was because of her that they felt brave enough to come out and quit hiding who they were. Some of the letters were asking where she’d gone and begging her to come back. Bella wiped her eyes and cleared her throat once they arrived.

“I need to address these in person. Let them know I’m going on hiatus but it won’t be for long…”

“Done. Just name the time and place, I’ll take care of the rest.”

Bella nodded.

“I wish to do it here, straightaway, while I have Erik with me.”

The senator looked to the time.

“Give me an half an hour and I can certainly arrange that.”

“She’s going to need some bodyguards… Only the best.” Erik threw out there.

Not that he was leaving her side, but he wasn’t taking any chances.

“But of course. Anything else?”

“She’s going to need the rest of this pregnancy off, add another month, at least. So she can be home with the child.”

“Erik, I can speak for myself…”

Mr. Johnson chuckled on this.

“Ah, now it’s quite alright. I can see where he’s coming from. And he’s right; you deserve the best, Miss Swan.”

The Senator leaned back and looked to be in thought.

“How’s six months sound? She’d be technically ‘working’ anyhow…”

Erik regarded the senator in question.

“By helping YOU prepare, Mr Lehnsherr!”

“Sound like a fair enough deal?”

“I’m game.”

The senator smiled and held out his hand.

“Well then… I’ll get to work. Good luck, Mr. Lehnsherr. If either of you have any questions or need me, no matter the time, give me a ring.”

He shook their hands and exited the limo.

“Just hold tight until I personally gather you.”

They nodded then he shut the door and went about his way.

“Are you alright?” Erik questioned seeing the painful glimmer in her eyes.

“I’m fine…”

This had the mutant shaking his head.

“You’ve tolerated it long enough, Ella. You need something for the pain.”

“But the baby…”

“Hank can find you something safe, I’m sure. There’s no sense in you being in agony if you don’t have to be.”

Bella rubbed her shoulder a bit and was gazing out the window.

“Nervous?”

“You have no idea… I usually have more time to prepare.”

He nodded in understanding.

“I believe you’ll do just fine.”

Erik kissed along her shoulder.

“Truth… How do you feel about Mr. Johnson’s proposal?”

“You mean as in you running for senate?”

He nodded.

“I think it’s rather clever actually. You most certainly have what it takes to pull it off. This country could use a little spin on things.”

“But is this something you want?”

“How do you mean?”

“I suppose what I’m asking is if this is something you truly want for our future?”

Bella smiled on this.

“Are you assuming we have one…?”

He shook his head but chuckled.

“You love giving me hell. Don’t you, my sweet Ella?”

“Don’t you know it, Maggie.”

“Hmmm.”

“All joking aside… Erik, you know I will support you, just as you have supported me. Unless, it’s world domination then you’re on your own.”

“Are you sure? It could be fun… the two of us taking over the world and all.”

“As appealing as that sounds… I believe I’ll have to decline your offer. Ask me again in say… five years or so?”

“You got it.”

Erik tapped his finger along one of the letters.

“I understand your reasoning, more than ever. I apologize for ever indicating that you didn’t care about our son. This right here shows otherwise. I was thinking of the now, whereas you were thinking of the future. Ella, I know I will never deserve you. We come from two different worlds. I’ve already lost you once, well more than that, according to Charles. I do not wish to have YOU or OUR son ripped away from me again. That alone is the reason for my behavior. I know you don’t have all your memories back. But I do, at least for the most part. I myself am having trouble processing everything. But note that you were my very first love and I hope that you will be my last as well. So do me a favor and be extra observant of your surroundings. Trust no one. And if you just so happen to leave the manor while I’m away, take someone with you. Someone you can trust such as Morti or Charles.”

“How long will you be?”

“I haven’t a clue. It truly depends on how my journey goes.”

“Journey?”

“Let’s just say I’m putting the band back together only… I’m going to need some new members.”

“You mean as in The Brotherhood?”

He nodded.

“Erik…” She said with hesitation.

He smiled on this.

“Come now, my dear Ella… Where’s the trust?”

Bella sighed and Erik pulled her into his lap.

“I might not do things Charles’s way. But I get the job done and that’s what truly matters. I know you admire the man and I will never live up to that sort of expectation. There might be some envy where that’s concerned but I understand all the same.”

“Charles might have my admiration but you have my heart. And that’s not something I take lightly, Erik. I love you, sometimes others… not so much!”

“Does this mean I win?!”

Bella had a good laugh at this.

“Oh, absolutely!”

He chuckled then put his forehead to hers.

““Ich liebe dich auch, süße Ella.” (I love you too, sweet Ella)

Erik kissed her lips and the kissing lingered as a few of their old memories were coming to play. During these times it was hard for either to pull away. Mr. Johnson opened the door, startling them out of their little moment. The senator cleared his throat.

“My apologies, I should’ve knocked first.”

Bella had a massive blush going as Erik helped to adjust her skirt. “To be continued.” He whispered. The senator offered Bella his arm and he waved the bodyguards over. Erik followed as the senator escorted her onto the stage. Bella felt a twinge of stage fight as the crowd was even bigger than the last time. In fact, it was so massive the police were closing down nearby roads and policing everyone around. But all Erik could see was the potential danger. The man was on edge and he didn’t like this one bit. To him it was like placing a target on her and daring her enemies to come forward. He was sure to get flak for it later but at the moment he didn’t really care. He joined her on the stage and literally acted as one of the bodyguards. The moment the crowd saw them standing side by side they went nuts. That was most certainly something neither expected. It wasn’t just her name they chanted but that of Magneto’s. The press had arrived and was hammering them with questions. Bella drew back the deepest of breaths and picked up the mic. She was never one to stand still at the podium. The young woman paced the area a bit. Before long, she turned and faced the crowd. The young women held up a hand indicating a moment of silence. The crowd grew silent and eagerly waited.

“You’ll have to forgive me. It’s been awhile.”

For whatever reason, that had them clapping, hooting, and hollering. Bella sort of laughed as she picked up a few boos as well.

“You’re easily excitable today…” She remarked with a smile.

Someone in the crowd shouted “I love you”. Bella raised her brows on his and regarded that particular person.

“Well I love you too.”

The crowd laughed but Bella froze as she took notice of a few holding up signs in memory of her mutant friend. A few of them wore blue feathers in their hair, in her honor. Bella swallowed back and glanced towards one of the women.

“May I have one of those?”

The woman looked to be in shock and walked on over and handed Bella one of her blue feathers. Bella hunkered down and retrieved it.

“Thank you.”

“But of course.”

Bella smiled and rose. She looked to the feather and twirled it about in her hand. She placed it into her hair afterward.

“I never got her name…” Bella solemnly said and the crowd grew quiet once again.

“She was beautiful and brave. She was like many of us. Mutant, human… What have you? Aren’t we all after the SAME thing? There’s this desire to leave our footprint somewhere in this world, no matter how insignificant. Each of us wants to leave something behind; so that when we die our memory will be kept alive. Yes, some of us through ill intentions, others not so much. But that doesn’t change the facts. My friend was robbed of that and all because of her association with me. That’s something each and every one of you, need to take into consideration. Just being here puts you in danger.”

Bella walked over to the podium and grabbed the letters. She held them up so that everyone could see.

“I just want you all to know that I have been reading them and I cannot thank you enough. Your support means the world to me.”

The young woman let out a nervy laugh.

“You know the first time I ever stepped foot on this stage, I threw up?”

The crowd laughed.

“That’s right, right in the middle of my speech… I walked over to that podium, upchucked, and went back to what I had to say. I was a nervous wreck!”

They laughed once again and cheered her on.

“But I had something to say. No matter how sick I got to my stomach, no matter the incredible amount of stage fright, or fear even… I wanted to be heard. It was time I took a stand. I just never dreamed that it’d get me this far. I mean look at this…” She waved her hand about the crowd.

“This is crazy, yet amazing all the same. But unfortunately… this also comes with pros and cons – as does anything. And as of late, the cons seem to outweigh the pros. Now when I say that… it doesn’t mean that I’m giving up. That couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, things are about to change and you’ll see soon enough. But for now… I need to put my family first. And I truly hope that you understand that. This isn’t goodbye. This is a mere until I see you again…” She blew the crowd a kiss and tossed the mic towards the senator. He caught it with a smile and did a slight bow.

“And she’s back…”

Bella nodded and Erik made his way over. He wrapped his arm around her and that riled the crowd up even more. Bella blushed as he escorted her down the steps and back to the limo.

“Well Miss. Swan, I do believe everyone seems to think we’re an item of sorts.” Erik teased once they were behind closed doors.

Bella softly laughed.

“Crazy, isn’t it?”

“Perhaps we should humor them and keep up the little charade?”

“Sounds like a plan.” Bella replied as she laid her head in his lap.

Erik took her hand and kissed it.

“Perfection, as always.”

“Yeah, well I felt like I was standing up there for the first time. I couldn’t believe the turn out.”

Erik took notice of the way her body trembled. He could tell it was a touch of nerves but it also had to do with the amount of pain she was enduring. He took precaution as he undid her sling. He shook his head once he saw how swollen her shoulder was.

“You’re to see Hank, first thing.”

“Oh believe me… I’m about ready to tap a vein myself.”

They narrowed their eyes however as the limo passed the turn off. Erik sighed and rolled down the privacy window.

“I’m afraid you missed our turn.

The driver didn’t comment. In fact he rolled the window back up and locked everything up. Erik rolled his eyes as the driver pulled onto a dirt road and kept driving.

“Idiot…” Bella heard him utter and she laughed in realization.

“Well go on now… Entertain me and get us out of this Mag’s.”

“Sehr gut, meine Dame.” (Very well, my lady)

When the limo came to a stop, the driver stepped out. He opened the door and had a gun aimed Bella’s direction.

“OUT! BOTH OF YOU!”

Bella followed Erik’s lead and got out of the limo.

“ON YOUR KNEES!”

“Not in this suit…” Erik replied with a scowl.

The driver reared back on this and Bella stifled a giggle.

“You think this is funny? You mutie loving BITCH!”

The gun flew out if his hand and was now hovering right before his face. The man had this wide-eyed oh shit look about him as the gun cocked itself.

“Do you have a plan B?” Erik taunted.

“You can’t kill him, Erik.” Bella reminded.

“No. But I can make him wish I had.”

Bella’s jaw dropped as Erik leaped over and beat the ever living shit out of him.

“Shouldn’t we take him to the police station and let them deal with him?”

Erik stopped what he was doing and frowned.

“Father was a cop… or at least the last father I had…”She uttered looking rather puzzled.

“Ah, well that certainly explains a lot.” He said as he sent one last jab across the face.

The man went down like a sack of bricks. Erik patted him down and retrieved the man’s wallet. He shook his head seeing that the man had a business card from a well-known organization, one known for protesting against mutant rights. But it was the card behind it that had Erik gritting his teeth. It was a card from the gentlemen’s club where Bella was last employed. There was a number written on the back. Erik was discreet as he pocketed it. He nodded towards Bella.

“You said it wasn’t mutants that killed your friend…” He said as Cain came to mind.

She nodded.

“Then who?”

“I suspect the group from the gentleman’s club.”

Bella went on to tell him about her stripper friend and how these particular men were acting. Erik looked to be in thought as he placed the man’s wallet into his pocket.

“What are you going to do?”

“Well I’m not taking him to the station.” He murmured with a shrug.

“Erik…”

“I’m not going to kill him…yet. I need him alive. I do believe a message is in order…”

Erik lifted the man up off the ground and flipped him over his shoulder. He used his gift to open the trunk and tossed the man inside. It slammed shut directly after. Erik opened the back door and helped Bella inside. The door came to a close as he was heading over to the driver’s side. Erik started the car then brought the privacy window back down. He looked into the rearview mirror and sent Bella a wink.

“So where we going?”

“You are going back to the manor.”

She frowned on this and Erik chuckled as he got back onto the freeway.

“You’re to see Hank straightaway. I’ll be there shortly.”

“I’m guessing this is another secret mission of yours?”

“Not particularly, no. But it is something I wish to discuss, later.”

“And why is that?”

“So you’re not given the chance to talk me out of it.”

“ERIK!”

“Ella…” he taunted in return.

“Don’t you do anything that’s going to ruin your chances of getting elected!”

“So bossy…” He scoffed in a sassy-like manner.

Bella snorted and shook her head.

“You’re something else you know that?!”

“So I’ve been told.”

Bella nodded and looked out the window.

“So…”

“So…?”

“Back to JFK…”

Erik pulled a face on this and rolled the privacy window back up.

“HEY!”

---

“You’ve got a long night ahead of you. I hope you realize that!”

“I’m well aware…” Erik assured as he escorted Bella to the mansion door.

“Don’t you even think about falling asleep on me!”

“And what if I have other things in mind?” Erik questioned whilst wiggling his brows suggestively.

“That’s just fine… but AFTER we talk.”

“And you once said that I was boring…”

“I’m serious, Erik!”

“So am I…”

“Ugh…”

He chuckled and opened the door.

“Like I said…”

She nodded and watched as he headed back to the limo.

---

Erik pulled up to the front of the club. It was just a couple hours before they opened for the night. He exited the limo, walked around, opened the trunk, and grabbed the man. With one swift motion the doors to the club swung open. Erik strutted on in and asked the barkeep where the manager was. He regarded Erik with widened eyes and pointed to the back area where the office was. The mutant gave a simple nod and headed that direction. He didn’t bother in knocking. He simply opened the door. Erik raised his brows as the manager had one of the strippers bent over his desk and was fucking her. He waltzed on over and flung the ‘hired hit’ over the manager’s desk. The man was quick to pull out and went to grab his gun. Erik let out a sigh of mere annoyance and sent the gun flying out of his hand. He backed the man up against the wall.

“Leave us…” Erik demanded and the woman darted on out the door.

The mutant wrapped his hand around the manager’s throat then lifted him up off the ground.

Within the matter of seconds, several metal objects were pierced throughout various parts of his body. Not enough to be life threatening but enough to make him wish otherwise. Erik dropped his hold and the manager looked to his body in horror. The metal objects were the only thing holding him in place. The man cried for help and Erik rolled his eyes. He could hear a few of the employees trying to get into the office. But Erik already had it blocked off. He pointed towards the hit man.

“He’s alive, barely. You’re to call off this hit or I’ll come back and KILL EVERYONE you hold dear; including that of your staff and family and when I’m done… I will burn down this entire establishment. Do I make myself clear?!”

When the man wouldn’t answer, Erik punched the area of his crotch.

“That ought to put a damper on your social life for a bit. Now… do I need to make it permanent?”

“N… no sir.” The man choked back.

“Then answer when spoken to!”

“Ye.. Yes sir.” The man whimpered.

“Are you going to call off the hit?”

“Yes!”

“Are you or your men going to come near Isabella Swan again?”

“No!”

“I do not make threats, Mr. Olsen. And I always follow through with my promises. Disappoint me and everyone around you WILL PAY!”

The manager let out a painful gasp as the metal was ripped out of his body and sent into the hit man’s instead. Erik eyed Mr. Olsen down as he had a letter opener hovering right over the hit man’s jugular. The mutant gave a mere nod and the manager let out a horrific scream as Erik finished the job.

“THAT’S YOUR FIRST AND ONLY WARNING! DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?!”

“Ye… yes, sir!” The man cried as he came to his knees.

“Good!”

---

“How’s that feel?”

Bella moved her arm and shoulder about then looked to Dr. McCoy in amazement.

“Wow… So much better. How’d you do that?”

“You’ll need another shot in the morning but it should last you the night.”

“And it won’t harm the child?”

“Not at all… Let’s do some ROM exercises though, before you leave. You should do this at least three times a day and to answer your question – the injection I gave you was in the rotator cuff. It will not only ease the swelling and the pain but make the healing process go by a little faster.”

“Thank you.”

“No problem. I just wish you would’ve come to me sooner. You haven’t had any pain in your abdomen?”

“No.”

“Good deal. The infant has a study heartbeat and everything seems just fine.”

---

“Long day…?”

The young mutant jumped and turned the direction in which the voice was coming from.

“Erik?”

He gave a simple nod as he was kicked back at her dining room table, flask in hand. He screwed the lid on then placed it into his pocket. The man went on to adjust his fedora and cleared his throat.

“Did I or did I not warn you about my human companion?”

“And how was I to know she was going to be there?!”

“You could’ve avoided her all the same. But you chose to approach her instead.”

“Is that what she told you?”

“No. Actually, I saw and heard everything for myself…”

“You mean…” she staggered back in realization and Erik nodded.

“So you have a son…”

Raven nodded but looked uneasy.

“And how old is the child?”

“Five.”

Erik looked to be in thought.

“You were quite young.”

“That I was.”

“And why hadn’t you told me about this?”

Raven shrugged and leaned against the wall with her arms folded about her chest.

“Hmm… So you abandoned him not just once, but twice.”

“I never abandoned him!” She defended.

“Then what would you call it?”

“I did what I had to.”

“Is that so?”

She nodded.

“Who is the father?”

“It doesn’t matter.”

“Would it have made a difference if it were OUR child instead?” But as he asked this there was a touch of resentment behind his words.

“Or would he have met the same fate?!”

“Erik…” She pleaded and he gave a simple nod as he came to his feet.

“I didn’t know you had it in you, Raven. Coming from someone that was abandoned herself. We all were at one time or another. And we once swore an oath that we would NEVER do that to our own kind. Yet you go and do it… TO YOUR OWN FLESH AND BLOOD?! You’re so quick to pull the pity card when it comes to Ella. And to think I fell for it. I might not have shown it but I did feel a twinge of remorse and guilt on your behalf. I know I hurt you, Raven. And that was never my intention. But for you to go and take it out on an innocent child and that of your own is inconceivable and beyond heartless. I say this as a father. I only wish I had known about Pietro and Wanda, but I didn’t have that option, not until recently. Hence the reason I stayed behind and found a way to make it work. Has it been easy? No. But that’s not the point. We don’t turn our backs to family, whether they are blood, or not! That is NOT what the Brotherhood stands for. It seems as if you’ve lost your way, dear friend. And you have no one to blame but yourself. Now before you go on about why you turned your back to me in the first place, I already know. You should’ve come to me, Raven. I would’ve listened and helped you in whatever way I could. But you didn’t. You kept me in the dark about everything. Then you have the nerve to come back and act as if Ella’s the villain in all this. When all it truly boils down to is that we never had the connection I thought we had. I trusted you and in return I assumed I had yours as well. Clearly, I was mistaken – about a lot of things.”

He shook his head.

“So disappointing… You’re not who I thought you were. If I had known the truth, I wouldn’t have invested as much time as I had in you. You haven’t a clue… the things I’ve done on your behalf. But that stops as of now.”

“Erik, please… I…”

“YOU WHAT?!” He spat.

“It’s time for you to quit concerning yourself with me. We are done and have been. I moved on and so should you. You had a chance to tell me about your son and whatever story there was behind that. Yet you chose otherwise. Five years, Raven… Five of keeping this from me. And I’ve every reason to believe that you only went back because he was in some sort of danger. You hadn’t any plans of making an appearance otherwise. You dumped him off like he was some sort of stray dog and at Charles’s place of residence, no doubt. That alone is ALL the proof I need. He is a child. One of us. He is a part of you and you cast him aside, just as humans have done to us.”

“I don’t have it in me to be a mother!”

“FINALLY! SOMETHING WE BOTH AGREE ON!”

“IT WASN’T PLANNED. DAMMIT ERIK, I MADE A MISTAKE!”

Erik punched at the wall behind her.

“You think I planned to have another child? THINK AGAIN! It was the LAST thing I wanted. I got enough to worry about. Yet here I am… taking responsibility as should any parent. No matter the circumstances. We are in the same boat, Raven!”

“The difference being is that I don’t have anyone willing to take that road with me!”

“Pity party much?”

Raven rolled her eyes on this.

“You abandoned one of your own. What I said about not hiding who you are… I was wrong. So you just go back to keeping that human shell of yours. Mutation or not, you’re no longer one of us.” Erik stopped at the door but kept his back to her. “And that’s another thing… If you’re behind these ‘attacks’, then you had better run and make certain I can never find you.”

---

Bella laughed as she had her head in Morti’s lap.

“What?” He questioned.

“I think that girl over there is ten kinds of jealous.” She was referring to the girl whose skirt he’d licked the other day.

He cocked a brow that direction.

“Look, just watch her face…” Bella whispered as she took Morti’s hand and rolled over facing him.

“She’s cutting me daggers, isn’t she?”

He got this egotistical grin about him.

“See! I told you! She thinks we’re an item.”

“Aren’t we?” He taunted.

“You don’t value your life very much, do you?”

He shrugged and went to lift her shirt.

“Don’t you even…”

“What?! I thought we were putting on an ‘act’.”

“Ugh. You are such a perv.” Bella uttered as she lifted her head and came to her feet.

“Just imagine what I can do with my tongue!” He called as she was walking away.

The mutant chuckled as she flipped him off and kept walking. Toad sent the young mutant a cocky grin and she giggled in response.

“It’s true you know…”

“You were saying…?”

His eyes widened as it was Erik leaning into his ear.

“It’d be a shame to lose such an accommodating feature.”

Toad nodded in agreement. Erik chuckled and goaded Morti by sending the young woman a flirtatious wink. Morti frowned and mumbled a slew of curse words under his breath.

---

“Beautiful, aren’t they?”

Bella smiled and continued in her star gazing.

“You could say that…”

“Nowhere near as beautiful as you.” He said leaving a trail of kisses along her neck.

“So you can be romantic…”

He nodded and wrapped his arms around her waist.

“How’s the shoulder?”

“A lot better actually. Hank is a bit of a miracle worker. Whatever he injected me with… I haven’t had any pain since and it’s a little easier to move now.”

“Hmmm…” Erik hummed in thought.

“Did you take care of your ‘business’?” She questioned with a touch of bitterness.

He chuckled taking notice.

“That I did.”

“So does this mean we can talk?”

“Are you certain that’s what you want?” He asked as he ran his hands along her body, suggestively.

“Erik…”

“We could talk… or…’ he kissed along her neck once again then whispered into her ear. “I could rip this dress right off your body, kiss every inch of it, then when I’m done I’d use my tongue to pleasure you in the ‘biblical’ sense. I wouldn’t stop until I have you begging and crying my name. Even then… I’d make love to you nice and slow, until you can take no more. Your eyes alone would let me know when you’re ready for a good fucking. So tell me, sweet Ella. Which do you prefer?” His accent only heightened his words.

He scooped her up and headed to the room they were staying in. Within a matter of seconds, he had her stripped down and laying on the bed. And it went just as he said it would. He started off with a trail of kisses and once he finished… He had that tongue of his at work.

“Oh God, Erik!”

She was quick to clamp a hand over her mouth remembering where they were. As for Erik, he hadn’t a care in the world at the moment. He knew what he wanted and was going for it.

“Erik, please…” She whispered pleadingly.

He got that smirk about him but said nothing as he replaced his tongue with something much more pacifying.

“Mein Gott…(My God)” Erik moaned.

“Fühlt sich so gut an, süße Ella!” (Feels so good, sweet Ella)

Erik hadn’t even begun to thrust, yet he already had her cumming. And just as he said… his eyes met her gaze. He gave a simple nod and Bella grabbed the nearest pillow. She used it to muffle her cries. This only spurred him on more. If anything, he sought it a challenge. He wanted to fuck her so hard that she forgot that pillow even existed and where they were in the first place. He couldn’t care less about Xavier and his students. He might be a gentleman but that only went so far. At this very moment… he was in overdrive and all he wanted was to hear that sweet cry of hers. This had him gritting his teeth with determination and he fucked her even harder. He’d lost count of how many times he managed to get her off. He himself had already came but he wasn’t about to stop until HE had what he wanted. The man was covered in sweat but he finally got that cry he longed for. This had him cumming yet again. By the time he pulled out he was ready to pass out.

---

               “Mr. Johnson.”

                “Miss. Swan…” The man replied with a nod.

                “Are you ready?”

                Bella looked to the crowd then back to the senator.

                “I suppose.”

                He chuckled and motioned for her to step on out.

                “You got this. Why doubt yourself now?”

                Bella drew back the deepest of breaths.

                “Have you seen Erik?”

                “I’m afraid not. But we can’t keep them waiting much longer.”

                Bella nodded in agreement.

                “He said he’d be here.”

                “And I’m sure he will but for now I need you on that stage, before they begin to riot.”

                Bella stepped on out and inched her way over to the mic. For whatever reason, she felt as though gravity was working against her. With each step there seemed to be this force pushing at her. Along with that was this unbearable heat. The closer she came to that mic, the more intense these things became. She was covered in sweat and thirsty. She licked her chapped lips and reached for the mic. But as she did this she lifted her eyes and saw a man standing before the crowd. Something about him seemed vaguely familiar. He shook his head looking somewhat disappointed.

“I tried to warn you, didn’t I, Isabella?”

                He made a tsking like sound and pointed a certain direction. Bella looked over and saw that Erik was standing behind her. He had a small bundle in his arms. Bella smiled and was eager to hold the bundle herself. But just as she reached for it, Erik grabbed the mic and was eyeing her down.

“He’s playing you, my dear, and has been.” The strange man called out.

                Just as she was to comment on this, the crowd let out a horrific cry. Bella turned as she felt a sharp jab within her back. The taste of copper traveled up along her throat and she looked to the man in shock as a puddle of blood landed within the palm of her hand.

“That makes twice where you played the fool. First the vampire and now the mutant. You’d think you’d learn by now.” The man called once again looking to be genuinely upset.

                He held out a hand and was reaching for her.

“If you’d only listen and come with me. I would keep you safe. I would give you anything you need.”

                She turned her attention back to Erik, only to see HER reflection in his eyes.

“Raven…” Bella whispered and Erik nodded.

                He leaned into her ear.

“You were so easily convinced, my sweet ‘Ella’.” Erik nodded upon Raven who was standing on the other side of Bella now. “End her. Only I want her facing her so called ‘fans’.” He ordered and Raven smiled.

                The crowd was holding signs protesting against her and booing her. The strange man let out a mere sigh as they started to throw things at her and were laughing.

“All of this could’ve been avoided. Why must you do this to me, Isabella?!”

                Bella let out a gasp as she was jerked back and felt the cold steel pressing down against her throat. She looked to Erik wide-eyed.

“Why?” She cried.

“Because I can…”

                Erik snapped his fingers and shards of metal were impaling everyone throughout the crowd.

He let out this obnoxious laugh afterward. Only when she looked over it wasn’t Erik. It was Magneto, only a much older version. He narrowed his eyes and caressed her cheek.

“Do you remember me?” He questioned with sincerity.

                Bella shook her head no and he sighed with disappointment.

“I need you to remember. It’s time to wake up, Ella.”

“Stop this… WAKE UP!” Magneto roared as he shot out both hands.

                Bella was sent flying back and she held out her hands reaching for the baby.

“Whatever you do… Don’t you listen to him! I mean it, Ella. Don’t you listen!” Magneto shouted and pointed the strange man in the crowd.

                The man rolled his eyes but got this cocky smirk about him. 

---

Bella tumbled on out of the bed and was crawling amongst the floor. She felt her way around and was searching for the bathroom door, while gasping for air.

“Ella…” Erik called as he turned on the lamp.

When she wouldn’t respond, he shot up and rushed on over.

“Ella.”

“Hey!”

Erik hunkered down and went to caress her cheek. She jumped back and immediately shield herself.

“Ella… it’s me. Erik.”

“Get away from me!”

He narrowed his eyes wondering where that came from.

“Isabelle, look at me.”

Bella held out a hand and backed herself into a corner. She brought her knees up against chest.

“You took my baby! Why?! Why would you take him from me?!”

Erik tilted his head realizing she was still ‘out of it’. He swallowed back thinking on how to wake her, without startling her more than she was already.

“I didn’t get to see him.” She cried and was rocking back and forth.

“You never let me see him. You took him.”

Erik signaled towards her abdomen.

“Our baby is just fine and you will see him soon enough. I give you my word.”

Bella placed her hand along her belly and regarded Erik in a disordered manner. Erik crawled on over and pulled her into his chest.

“No one’s taking the child away. Not even I…” He assured then kissed the top of her head.

He grimaced as Bella cried even harder.

“Shhh…” He shushed and went on to rock her.

The mutant hated himself for causing all this distress. He hadn’t anyone to blame, other than himself. Ella was suffering because of his neglectful ways. He drew back a breath and closed his eyes.

“Now back to sleep, meine Liebe.” He whispered.

---

When Erik woke the next morning they were still on the floor. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and nudged Bella awake. She let out a displeased groan and this had him chuckling.

“Come now. I’ve to leave soon and would like for Hank to check you over, before I do so; for my own peace of mind, at least.”

“Are you going to tell me where it is you’re going?”

“You’ll find out once I’ve returned.”

“That’s super annoying, you know that?! If I was to pull that shit you’d be all over my ass!”

He raised his brows on this.

“Well can you blame me?

“It’s just the perfect size.” Erik taunted and ran his hand along her bare cheek.

“I’m being serious.”

“So am I.” He muttered and gave it a slight squeeze.

“Hmmm…”

“Fine. Tell me about JFK!”

Erik sighed and rolled her off him. He came to his feet and was quick to hit the shower.

---

“Everything looks just fine. Baby’s healthy and seems to be content with that thumb of his.”

Bella looked over to see what Dr. McCoy was referring to. She giggled seeing as the baby was sucking his thumb.

“I have to admit your technology is certainly better than I thought it would be.” Bella said but with slight confusion.

Dr. McCoy took off his glasses and tilted his head.

“How do you mean?”

“I didn’t think this was possible around this time… An ultrasound, sure. But… this… Well it’s impressive to say the least.”

Dr. McCoy got this rather egotistical presence about him.

“You really think so?”

“Well yeah. It’s far more advanced if anything. I’d even go as far as to say it’s better.”

This had the doctor looking somewhat relieved.

“Good! Because it’s mine… the only one of its kind in fact!” He patted the machine and put his glasses back on.

Once she gathered the meaning behind that, her jaw dropped.

“You mean… as in…”

“It would seem so, Miss. Swan. And considering what all the professor has told me about you. It pleases me to know I’m on the verge of something outstanding! Your input most certainly appreciated. There are a few kinks to work out but one day…”

Bella smiled as he went on to finish the sonogram. Erik ran his hand along her belly. This had the doctor rearing back almost immediately.

“Well I believe he knows who his father is. Will you look at that… fascinating!”

Bella couldn’t believe what they were seeing. The infant had his hand along the area of Erik’s. Erik took the opportunity to give the child another ‘boost’. He did this knowing he could be on the road for some time. Erik was just as amazed by all this. He couldn’t believe how intuitive the child already was. It was mesmerizing.

“I’ve never seen such a thing.” Hank continued in his marvel.

“Have you thought of any names yet?”

Erik and Bella looked to one another and shook their heads.

“Well I’d come up with something soon. From the looks of things you only got 3 maybe 4 months to go. It’ll be here before you know it.”

“I always liked the name Aiden…”

Erik looked to be in thought.

“I rather like that name myself.” Hank admitted.

“But whose name will the infant carry?”

Bella drew back a breath on this. This had her regarding Erik in thought.

“His… I suppose.”

“Aiden Cole Lehnsherr?” Erik threw out there.

Bella smiled.

“I like it!”

“So does he, apparently.” Hank remarked as the baby seemed to react to hearing his name for the first time.

Erik took Bella by the hand and kissed it.

“Are you ready?”

“Not even a little…” She admitted and he laughed.

“I don’t think there’s such thing as true preparation.” He admitted.

“But there is the one thing we’ve yet to discuss.”

“Oh?”

“Well the child will be half Jewish.”

Bella looked to Erik as if the thought never occurred to her.

“You’re right…”

“I suppose what I’m asking is if you have any issues with that…”

“Why would I?”

Erik smiled.

“I just wanted to make certain.”

“It will be his decision on where to go with that. Neither of us can tell him otherwise.”

“Fair enough.” Erik said in agreement.

Erik looked to the time and Hank wiped the gel off Bella’s abdomen. She buttoned the lower portion to her blouse then Erik helped her down. She followed him outside and saw that he had a limo waiting out front.

“Fancy transportation you got there.”

He nodded but had this rather apprehensive look about him.

“Please keep everything I said in mind. If you wish to leave the manor take someone with you. Keep an eye on your surroundings and trust no one. And that’s another thing… rest, as much as possible. Trust me you’re going to need it. You won’t be getting much once that baby comes along.”

“Got it.” She said as she walked with him to the limo.

“Love you.”

“Love you too.”

“But…” He added hearing that hesitation, yet again.

“I’m just hoping this isn’t a common thing with you.”

“And what would that be?”

“The secrets… Even now, you won’t let me in. This trust thing… It goes both ways, Erik.”

He nodded in understanding.

“And rest assured, I will explain everything once I’ve returned. On that you have my word. In the meantime… I just need your trust and know that I have my reasons.”

“Well they had better be pretty damn good.”

“You shall see soon enough.”

And on this note… He kissed her one last time, before getting into the limo. To Bella’s great surprise Wanda and Pietro were in the limo, waiting for him. This had her even more curious as to what he was up to.

---

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