Disclaimer; I do not own any of these characters.

Authors note; HELLO EVERYONE! I'M BACK! Sorry it took so long for me to update, but Katrina really messed things up over here. The phone lines and computers were down for weeks. My husbands family lost all of their houses. It is really sad. Luckily, my house wasn't too bad…I just got a hole over my office but that's cool. I figure that it could've been a lot worse.

Anyway, thank you all for the well wishes and reviews. They really made me feel good.

Sorry for any mistakes, but I was trying to get this up as fast as I could. Next chapter will be better.

I heard that we can not answer reviews anymore, can someone tell me if that is true?

I will just mention names then till I get an answer.

Thanks to; laura81, Randirogue, gabrielle myka, ColossusR, Gambitlover21, Rogue gal, cdog21, maggie, rogue 87, Jean1, chica de los ojos café, amazing redd phoenix, Leishy, ishandahalf, Forbidden scars, WolvGambit Le Diable Blanc, addtothenoise, dizi, evolution stripes, optic, D, Simiolus, Selene, Solitare 3, Joanna, Wild Card Rose.

And a special thanks to SM. I received your review the other day. I was sitting there thinking whether or not to update this story. You see, I figured that almost two months had past and no one would remember my story. I then received your review. That motivated me to keep on going with it…thanks. But, enough talking. Lets get on with the story.

Thank You all again.

"hi"- speaking

'hi'- thinking

"hi"- telepathy

Green Eyed Monster

NOW

If one were to look up the definition of the word, invulnerable, it would read as the following:

In·vul·ner·a·ble (n-vlnr-bl)
adj.

1) Immune to attack; impregnable.

2) Impossible to damage, injure, or wound.

That however, did not mean that one who per chance had the super power of Invulnerability had the ability to be invulnerable from within. In another words, harm could occur to them from the inside. A perfect example of this would be if outside influences entered the body to damage it from the inside out, such as toxic fumes, drugs, poison and alcohol. Yes. Alcohol would be the perfect example as Rogue, whom just so happened to have Invulnerability on her list of mutant powers, was demonstrating at this very moment.

How many drinks had she had?

Who knew?

Why did she drink so much?

Who cares?

At the moment, all Remy LeBeau, AKA: the Gambit was thinking about…no, praying for, was for his beloved to keep on dancing.

The sway of her hips, the swing of her arms, the way her ample breast bounced up and down in rhythm with the music from the club made him believe that there was indeed a heaven on earth. She was a vision. He really did not believe that he had ever seen her look more lovely than she did that evening. He had thought so as soon as he had picked her up from her room for their date.

A part of him, his egotistical side of course, partly believed that she had prettied herself up for him. She was elegant yet with still slightly funky, a trait he had always admired in her wardrobe. Even though she had to keep all her body covered due to her mutation, she definitely knew how to dress. Her sense of style would be classified as a mixture of Goth and eighties punk, a very unusual combination, but one that she always managed to pull off very well. Tonight was no different, although elegance did manage to make it's way into the style tonight as well.

As she continued to dance along side Bobby and Betsy, Remy happily took in her appearance for the second time that night from the sidelines, completely oblivious to what Storm was talking to him about. His love had on a pair of hip hugger gray Capri's, that fell to right below her knees and flared out a bit there. The material wrapped themselves nice and tight around her thighs and ass, much to Remy's delight. Her top was just another piece in her ensemble that actually had Remy giddy with delight. It was a white strapless corset that had pink roses embroidered all about it. Laced up tightly in the back ran a thick black ribbon which accentuated her tiny waist and full bosom. Her pushed up cleavage was leaving his mouth watering, and the need to run his tongue over her two mounds of pale flesh was becoming too much to bare. 'De tongue ain't skin, it should work, non?' He shook his head a bit and adjusted himself to hide his excitement. He also thought it better to slow down on the drinks or he might indeed try and attempt that need.

He continued his observation of her as she ran her arms up her body slowly, completely lost in the music. Her arms were covered in long black opera gloves that reached just under her shoulder. A small black cotton sweater, that came up high on her back so that the black ribbon was still visible, covered her upper back and shoulders, leaving her wonderful cleavage out; the sleeves ending right where the gloves stopped. About her neck, she wore a thick pink ribbon as he lower legs were covered in the lightest pink stockings, that one would hardly even notice that they were there. Her shoes were black stiletto heels with black ribbons that tied around her ankles in a cute bow. Her hair was loose and styled with big thick curls, a style that he knew for a fact she had done for him.

He would always chase her about the mansion, complaining that she always wore her hair in a ponytail. She hated her hair, claiming that it was too wild and unmanageable to maintain, but that's what is liked so much about it…the wildness. It was as if he knew deep inside that Rogue had the capability to be just as wild as her hair if she would just let go of her inhibitions just a bit. She had threatened on occasion to cut her hair off but never actually went threw with it. She knew he liked it too much. He would have to show her his gratitude for leaving it down later. In fact, he might just do it right now because quite frankly, he didn't like one bit how Bobby was bumping and grinding with his woman.

Chugging down the rest of his drink as he burnt out his cigarette in the ashtray, Remy excused himself from Storm; who at the moment was wearing an amused expression, for the thief's jealousy did not go unnoticed. He quickly made his way to his woman.

His woman.

He did like the sound of that.

Rogue for her part had felt Remy's eyes on her the entire time and adored it. There were plenty of beautiful and sexy woman at the club that night, however, his eyes seemed to be only for her. He made her feel womanly, soft, feminine and sexy…something she felt would be impossibility for her to feel as the Untouchable. Now, with the stalk of a panther after it's prey, he was making his way towards her. God but he was too good looking for his own good. Pretending to not notice his advance, she secretly took in his appearance. One thing that that she loved about Remy was that the man had style and tonight he was showing it.

He had on a pair of Armani dark gray slacks with tiny pin stripes on them. The pants fit snuggly around his ass and thighs, but flared out just the tiniest bit around his lowers legs, giving them a type of boot cut look. Only a very brave and secure man could pull off those pants…both of which Remy happened to be. His shirt was a charcoal color that wouldn't necessarily be considered tight, but it snuggled his body nicely. The sleeves were short, allowing his beautiful biceps to be shown for everyone's viewing pleasure. His shirt was untucked with the top three buttons undone, giving him a whole I-don't-give-a-damn-look. Around each wrist he wore a thick black leather band as a silver chain was clasped around his neck, his guild insignia on an emblem hanging from it. His hair was pulled into a small ponytail, but a few strands found their way out, falling over his eyes.

The eyes that she loved so much.

The eyes that seemed to devour her.

The eyes that haunted her dreams.

The eyes…

The eyes…

The eyes that had no sunglasses covering them!

'He's crazy.' she thought.

He was blatantly exposing himself as a mutant and did so because he knew how much she adored his eyes.

'Crazy swamp rat.'

Just as he was about to reach her…an arms length away, she quickly backed away into the crowd, giving him a sultry smile all the while? He moved towards her again, his eyebrow quirked at her action, and again just as he was about to reach for her she moved, a small crowd blocking her from him. He noticed the mischievous smile that played on her wonderful lips and the playful wink she gave him. 'Little chienne wants to play, Hahn?' A slow sexy grin spread across his face as he began to chase after her through the sea of bodies. Every time he would get close to her, she would side step him and dive into the crowd. Close, yet so far. He knew she was enjoying his attention…his eyes only for her. He knew that she felt a little powerful having him chase after her, not that he was complaining, far from it actually. He was getting quite turned by their little game. The way she slowly swayed to the deep base of the music. The way she looked at him from underneath droopy eyelids, beckoning him; the black of her thick eyeliner accentuating the deep emerald color of the eyes he loved so much. The way she was biting on her lower lip, making him wish that it were he whom was doing the biting.

'Enough o dis, she wan' to play…we play.'

With that thought, he disappeared into the crowd.

One second he was there, the next he wasn't. 'Wha?' Rogue lost sight of him. Maybe she teased him too much? But Remy enjoyed the chase. The look in his eyes clearly indicated that he was enjoying himself. She knew she was. She didn't know that just having him slowly chase her through the crowd could affect her so. But where was he now? Maybe she was going too fast. Maybe he lost sight of her. Maybe…

Two strong arms wrapped themselves around her waist from behind.

Maybe he was right behind her.

"Bonjour mon femme magnifique," Remy whispered into her ear, causing her to close her eyes slightly and shudder against him. At her reaction, she heard him chuckle softly behind her, but not one to let someone else have the upper hand…especially in her intoxicated state, Rogue slid her arms up and around Gambit's neck, allowing him a great view of her cleavage as she rested her head against his chest. Going with the beat of the music, she began to slowly roll her ass against his groin firmly, giggling at the hardness that had formed there.

"Is that for me Cajun?" Clearly speaking about the bulge in his pants.

Planting two firm hands on her hips to stop her movement, he tried to stifle his groan. "Chienne mauvaise!" Seeing how his reaction caused another giggle to escape her… at his expense of course, he decided then and there to give the little Southern Belle a taste of her own medicine. After all, she had to be taught a lesson. She needed to see exactly whom she was dealing with. If she wished to play with the big boys then so be it. Play they shall. Grasping her hips and pulling her roughly against him, he began to grind himself against her ass, causing her to feel a whole lot more of him than she had before. At her gasp…which he so enjoyed to hear, he whispered softly in her ear, "It yours Mon chere, if ya wan' it." His hands moved to her thighs as she began to move against him. "You wan' it ma belle?" Her blush did not escape his notice. It seemed to spread all over her in the matter of seconds. Beginning on her cute cheeks, down her slender neck and soft shoulders, to finally come to an end over her delicious white mounds. "Dieu," he began, completely in awe of her beauty, "You look so fine tonight bébé."

At his compliment, Rogue turned to face the man of her dreams as she slid her arms back around his neck, the need to be close to him so foreign to her. It was as if she knew behaving this way was not what she was supposed to be doing, but having no control over her own body. Was the room spinning also? And when did it get so hot? "Ya don't look too bad yourself Swampy." Staring deep in his eyes, she rubbed herself against him, "Good enough to eat." She finished, in a sultry voice.

Remy was somewhat surprised and taken aback by her words, not to mention her actions. It was usually he who would make the sexual comments and innuendos. He was quite aroused by her behavior, but his logical side knew that something was off with his chere. He took in how her eyes seemed to be glazed over…glassy almost. He noticed how her sway was just a bit unbalanced. Yep. She was drunk as a skunk. "Chere," He began cautiously, knowing the wrong wording would easily upset her, 'Ya don' tink dat maybe you should slow down on dem drinks a bit?"

Seeming to ignore his comment completely, Rogue pressed herself against him again. "Nah…whah? Am ah botherin' ya Cajun?" She asked coyly, her accent more pronounced thanks to her intoxication.

Remy ran his hands down her back and over her ass, squeezing it gently as he jokingly said, "Non! I been dreamin' for dis day too happen. You know…when you finally throw yourself at me. It just dat, usually if I try any o dis shit, you'd be kicking my ass by now."

With a very girly giggle that set the thief's heart and other areas of his body aflame, she said "Well, ya know what they say sugah…when ya drunk, ya do the things that ya always really wanted at do."

Loving her cheeky grin, because quite frankly he drunken state of mind was too cute for words, he replied with a hearty laugh and another firm squeeze of her ass. "Ya tryin to tell dis Cajun dat ya always wanted him to feel ya up? Maybe even more?"

She lowered her eyes, as if she was too embarrassed to look at him. Then, with a quick suspicious look to the left, then another curious one to the right, taking in all of the people that were dancing around them, she looked back up at her Cajun and tsk'd in a very Kindergarten teacher type of way that made him curious as to what she was thinking. "Wha?"

"Damn Yankees," She scolded," They don't know a damn thang 'bout dancing, huh Remy?" A slow mischievous smile spread across his face as he shook his head no in regards to her question as his eyes twinkled in delight. He had a pretty good idea he knew where she was going with this. She slowly slid away from him, running her hands down his chest as she turned around to press her back against him. Looking over her shoulder, she gave him a flirty wink. "Want to show them why the dancing from the south is so famous?"

He bit his lip then. God how he was going to enjoy this! He placed one hand onto the back of her head as the other rest against her stomach. As he bent her forward he noticed the rolling movement she did with her back and ass. Huskily, he replied, "We show dem why it be called de Dirty South."

As if her giggle was a signal to begin, a new song began and they began to dance.

Boy, did they draw a crowd.

During The Same Moment

Logan nearly choked on his beer, something that would have been really amazing to behold if it weren't for his amazing healing ability.

"God damn that fucking Cajun! He's practically fucking her doggy style out there!"

"Well, Rogue does not seem to mind. She actually seems to be enjoying herself quite immensely."

The words were spoken by Orroro Munroe. The humor and amusement in her voice did not go unnoticed by Logan. He shot her a dirty look, one that merely made her laugh good naturally to him.

"Yeah? Well, look at her Ro. She's obviously a little more than drunk. Damn Cajun's taking advantage o' that."

Storm merely rolled her eyes at him. "Oh Please Logan. Rogue is a grown woman, contrary to what you believe. She may be a slight bit intoxicated, but as you said, 'Look at her.' She is having fun."

At her comment, they both turned to look at the southern couple. Rogue was now facing Remy but had one leg wrapped around his waist, his hand securing it in place. Rogue was running her covered hands through Remy's now loose hair as he was slowly rolling his hips in between hers in a very sexual manner. Looking back to face the Weather Goddess, Logan presented her with a very non-amused frown. "Yeah…that's only slightly intoxicated." He commented sarcastically as he through a hand at the couple in question.

"Oh, quiet! Mind your own business and let them be." Storm said exasperatedly, but secretly enjoying Logan's discomfort, "Besides, I think they look cute."

"I don't know about cute," Logan stated as he looked at the couple, disgust laced all about his face, "More like…Pornographic."

As Storm laughed, a true from the heartfelt laugh, Logan could not help but notice how truly lovely she was. Tonight, she had on a light blue and white silk midriff that allowed her tone stomach to be shown. Her skirt was of the same coloration and material, only it hung about her hips low and snuggly, billowing out around her ankles. A light pink sash was tied about her hips, accentuating their roundness. Both her wrists were covered in dozens of golden bangles; the same color of her huge earrings. Her hair was left down and flowing, accentuating the dazzling sapphires that were her eyes. She really did take his breath away, and it had absolutely nothing to do with her powers. How he wished that he could kiss her again. Quickly, he gulped down the rest of his drink, damning his powers for not allowing him the pleasure of even a momentary buzz. Thoughts like those could only lead him to trouble. They had not even discussed their first kiss and here he was, thinking about treating himself to another…with half of the team less than six feet away no less!

"Come now Logan," Orroro began, completely oblivious to the Wolverine's inner thoughts, "Is the thought of Remy and Rogue's…coupling, so distasteful to you, that you would drive yourself to alcoholism?"

Noticing the twinkle in her eye as she spoke, Logan just knew that she was having the time of her life with this. "Please darlin'. Let's not say the words; 'Remy', 'Rogue,' and 'coupling' in the same sentence!" He begged. As she laughed, he couldn't help it, he had to say what was on his mind. In a more serious tone, he continued, "Ro…you really believe Remy means well for Rogue? You know what a whore the Cajun can be. You really think this…" he waved his hand in the direction of the happy southern couple, "…that could work?"

Taking a deep breath, Storm gathered her thoughts before she began. Remy was her best friend, so it was always her first initial reaction to quickly defend him, however, she knew of Logan's feelings towards Rogue. Those feelings were quite similar, if not more paternal than hers toward Remy. Storm knew, despite her own feelings toward Gambit, that she owed Logan the truth on the matter. With one last final glance toward the couple, Storm began, "I love Remy…as if he were my actual born brother. Despite that fact however, I know him only too well. Remy loves the pleasure physical touch can bring…"

"Exactly! That's what I'm…"

"However," Storm interrupted, "I know of his love towards Rogue. It has been blossoming for quite a number of years now. Finally, it seems to have fully bloomed. He loves her Logan. Gambit loves Rogue much too much to hurt her." She turned to look at Logan straight in the yes, to show her sincerity as she placed a comforting hand on his. "Remy knows what he is getting himself into. He has put his need to be by Rogue's side for years now, so as not to hurt her. Logan…the heart can only go so long without what it most desires. Worry not my friend, Rogue is in good hands."

Logan was with her every step of the way…until she placed her hand on his, that is. It was then, that all rational thoughts went flying out of the window. The feel of her smooth skin placed on his stirred up images in his mind of her smooth lips placed upon his. The warmth of her hand wrapped around his had him imagining how warm her body would feel wrapped around his. God, how he wanted her!

"Besides Logan," Orroro went on, totally unsuspecting as to what really was going on in the Wolverine's mind, "Do you not agree that there are far more important issues to discuss at the moment than the escalating relationship of Remy and Rogue? What happened earlier today for instance?"

There it was.

An opening.

An easy opening for him to express his feelings toward her. The opportunity he had been waiting for. The opportunity to let her know the undying love he felt for her.

Express feelings?

Undying love?

'Jesus! I need another drink.' Logan thought to himself as he became quite disgusted with the mushiness of his inner monologue.

A gentle mocha colored hand was placed on his chest. His sparkling gray eyes met the electrifying blue of Storm's/ "Wouldn't you say, Logan?" she repeated.

A sly grin spread across his features as he closed in on her. Seeing as how she was seated on a stool and he himself had remained standing, they were now pretty much even in height. Sliding one of his hands around her delicate neck, he pulled her towards his slightly, their noses barely grazing each other. As he massaged her neck gently, he whispered, "Why? Ya want at do it again, darlin'?" He took in all of her reactions to his bold little maneuver. He noticed how her cheeks pinked ever so slightly, how her eyes seemed to have gotten a tad more misty as he throat constricted it self. The heaving of her bosom as she panted lightly, too had not escaped his notice. He could sense her attraction for him. He could smell her arousal. It maddened him. 'She may not love me, but at least I know she wants me.'

He wasn't surprised really. Storm was usually very open when it came to things such as sex and sexuality. Her upbringing in Africa was the reason behind her comfort with nudity, openness with sex, and the closeness she felt towards all things natural. That was after all just how Logan preferred his woman…completely natural. He really had no care for those type of woman who wore too much make-up or had plastic surgery done. With his heightened senses, it was more of a burden than a pleasure for him to deal with.

His words and closeness had taken the Weather Witch by surprise. Sure, she and Logan had flirted before, just as all the other teammates had done at some point of time. It was something that was done on a normal occurrence at Xavier's. It was virtually impossible to avoid considering how many men and women Xavier's housed. Putting that many good-looking men and women together, it was bound to happen. Usually when she and Logan flirted, it was just playing around…teasing… but this? This was different. She could see the seriousness in his eyes. She could feel his attraction towards her.

Did she want to do it again?

What kind of question was that? Of course she wanted to do it again! Just as how they had flirted before, she and Logan too had kissed before, but the kiss from earlier had been completely different from all the other times. While before, they were usually done as either in a friendship type manner or when it seemed like they were nearing the end of their lives because of some ridiculous fight they were in, the kiss from earlier had been passionate. It was exciting, sensual, and dangerous. Yet at the same time it was needy, tender, and even perhaps…loving?

''Loving'? Slow down Wind Rider, do not jump to conclusions.'

Sensing her confusion, Logan decided to let her off the hook…just this one time. Mostly because he too didn't really know how to deal with all that was happening. He wanted it to work out between them, but he knew that in order to do that, they would have to move slowly and carefully. Starting a new relationship with someone that has been your friend for so long was like dealing with fine china…it needing to be handled with extreme delicacy.

"Listen darlin', I need another drink. Looks to me like you need one too," he told her softly as he slid his hand ever so slowly down and away from her neck, making it a point to feel all the contours of her collarbone and shoulders as he did so, "And as for the kiss? I did it cause I wanted to darlin'. Point blank. Been wanting at kiss ya like that for a long, long time now."

"What? When? Why haven't you said…?"

"Ssh, " he placed a gruff finger against her soft plush lips, silencing her, "Later…when we're alone." With that he slowly backed away from her, much to not only his disappointment, but to hers as well. "How about that drink, Ro?"

"Logan, you know that I do not drink," she claimed in a condescending tone that he found completely adorable, "some soda water will be fine."

Logan merely shrugged his shoulders as he said, "More for me then. Be back in a few." Giving her an evil smirk then, he finished off by saying, "Don't go running away now. I'll hunt ya down…now that I got your scent."

And with one last smoldering look, he turned and went to the bar…leaving behind a very flushed Storm.

Not Too Far After

He took in how her long purple hair wrapped around her body as she swayed her luscious hips to he rhythm of the music. He drank in the way her black tube mini clung to her perky ample breast, tight ass and thighs. The way the muscles from her legs and arms flexed as she danced drew his eyes in like magnets. In fact, he thought every man present had their eyes on her, for they would surly have to be wrong in the head if they didn't.

'Yes sir,' he thought to himself proudly, 'I sure am one lucky guy to have her in my life.' He looked into her eyes and saw the playful wink she presented him with.

"Like what you see?" she playfully asked.

"Nah…I just thought you had a booger hanging out of your nose."

At his rather crude comment, she instantly stopped her movements and placed her hands on her hips while shooting him a playful scowl. "You toad!"

He heard himself give a hearty laugh in respond to her comment. Yes, he certainly was a lucky guy to have her in his life…as a best friend.

Betsy Braddock was his older brother, Warren's woman. In his opinion they were perfect for each other. They both were brought up in a wealthy aristocratic family as well as both being great businessmen and scholars and even though Bobby himself was brought up in that life style, he never felt like it really suited him. He always felt that he was far too laid back for that type of living as well as being much less…stiff. Perhaps it had to with Warren being the first born, or because Bobby himself was born from his fathers second marriage. Bobby always thought that it mostly had to do with his father leaving his brother the one in charge of Worthington Enterprises, a fact that had been well known since their childhood. Bobby was fairly certain that he harbored no ill will towards Warren for it…hell, he thought that he actually preferred it that way. Board meetings and a nine to five working schedule was just not for him!

When Warren and Betsy first started dating, he was a bit apprehensive at first; he didn't want to ruin his relationship with either his brother or his best friend. At one point, Warren had even questioned him if he had any feelings towards Betsy, but Bobby hurriedly reassured his older sibling that other than the occasional fantasy here and there, he felt nothing but true friendship towards the telepathic ninja. No, his romantic feelings were felt only towards his other best friend and woman of his dreams, the third if the three that made the Three Stooges…Rogue. Oh, how heavenly her name made him feel.

He remembered when they had been around the age of sixteen, they would frequently sneak out of the mansion during after hours to go club hopping…dancing the night away. IT was during those nights where the three of them learned to dance so well. Bobby loved the way Rogue danced. Like Betsy, Rogue was dynamite on the dance floor. 'Speaking of which, where is Rogue now?' bobby wondered as he looked around the club in an attempt to locate the object of his affections.

Finally spotting a few feet away…he wished he hadn't. There she was, dancing her heart out very provocatively with none other than the Cajun snake himself. 'Ugh! And the night was going to so well too!' Not enjoying the way a certain idiot's wandering hands were roaming all over Rogue's body, Bobby felt that is was his duty as her friend to put an end to it. 'But I can't, their on a date tonight. Damn!' He needed to figure out a way to separate the two quick, before it was too late.

Betsy was his only hope.

Making sure his voice was loud enough to be heard over the pounding music, he turned to Elizabeth and asked her, "You found out anything yet?"

Playfully wrapping her arms around his neck as she continued to dance, she answered him. "Not yet luv. Patience."

"Look!" he cried as he pointed in the direction of the two Southerners who were at the moment grinding against one another quite intimately.

"Oh my!" Betsy laughed.

"How do you expect me to have patience when THAT is going on? Come on Betts! You gotta help me!" Bobby begged, desperate for any type of help that would put to an end the display that Rogue and Gambit were performing.

"And I will Robert." Psylocke evilly replied as she now spotted Logan…an ALONE Logan…making his way to the bar. 'Now's my chance,' she thought to herself, 'He's a sitting duck.' With no Gambit or Jean around, Betsy hoped that she would be able to get the drop on Logan. She hoped that his defenses would be down just enough to allow her passage to the truth.

Noticing the direction that Psylocke was looking toward, Bobby gave her an exasperated look. "How's that gonna help? Rogue and Remy are that way!"

"Trust me." She told him confidently, the look on her face instantaneously easing his worries. He trusted Psylocke completely. If she believed that the answer to separating Rogue and Gambit lied with Wolverine, then the answers lied with Wolverine. He just didn't know how wise it was to go messing around with Logan, especially Logan's head. Good thing he knew that Betsy wasn't easy to scare.

Just as Elizabeth was about to chase after her prey a pair of firm arms wrapped themselves around her from behind, holding her in place. "Miss me baby?" A husky voice whispered in her ear. A genuinely happy smile formed on her lovely features as she slowly and sensually turned in the arms of her captor. The sexy blues of her boyfriend, Warren, greeted her. "I always miss you when you're not around." She replied as she went up on her tippy toes to give him a passionate, lustful, and VERY public show of affection.

The kiss did not go unnoticed by the many dancers that were around them. Some cheered as other whistled. Some even screamed for more. One spectator however seemed to be grossed out by the whole thing. "Oh man!" Bobby exclaimed, disgust etched on his good looking features, "Get a fucking room! Gross!"

Both Warren and Betsy laughed our right at that. "What's wrong little brother? You act like you've never been kissed before, let alone ever seen one. Oh, but wait, I forgot. My little baby brother here is still a virgin!" Warren joked, to which Bobby merely responded with a quick jab to his brother's chest.

"Hardy fucking har har, asshole! I just don't like seeing my brother getting all freaky with my best friend all right! There are some things in this world I would like NOT to see before I die, y'know."

Merely chuckling at his brother's remark, Warren turned to look at his girlfriend. "Wanna dance, baby?" He softly asked her.

Betsy couldn't help but perk up at this. Warren was usually a wall flower, always preferring to view from the sidelines instead of dancing, it was a surprise and a treat for him to be willing to dance with her that night. 'He must've been throwing some drinks back while I wasn't looking.' she silently mused to herself. But just as she was about to accept his offer, the sight of Logan caught her eye again, immediately changing her mind. Love to darling, but…duty calls."

Warren glanced in the direction his woman was indicating and couldn't stop the amused laugh that escaped him. "Ah, I see. Operation: Corner Logan is still in effect, huh?" He then stepped aside very gentlemanly like and place a gently kiss on her knuckles. "By all means my lady, don't let me stop you."

Giving him one last sexy kiss, she seductively whispered, "I'll be right back, luv."

Kiss. Kiss.

"I'll be waiting."

Kiss. Kiss.

"It's still gross!"

They parted with a laugh, knowing that poor Bobby wouldn't be able to stand anymore of their loving moments together. However, once Betsy departed, it was as if both men noticed at the same moment exactly how close they were standing to each other. Bobby, reacting more quickly than his older sibling, harshly shoved Warren away with a good, unnecessarily hard push to the chest. "Eww! Man…she's coming right back! No need to get all close and shit!"

Warren simply laughed at his brothers antics, already used to them. "You wish." With a quick look around the club, Warrens eyes fell on the Southern couple, looking at how they seemed to be slow dancing to a hip hop song. 'Hmm. Interesting.' "They seem to be very in to each other. Their date seems to going well, wouldn't you agree, Bobby?" His mocking tone obviously not even attempted to be hid.

In response, Bobby merely snorted as he shot his older brother the bird, which did nothing but earn him another cocky laugh from Warren.

"Hey man, it's nobody's fault but you own. You're just pissed because you know it. You've had plenty of chances with her." Warren berated.

"Whatever," Robert replied, as he too now turned to look at the couple. "Sides, it won't last."

"No?" Warren asked, not being able to ignore the supreme confidence Bobby said that statement with.

"Nope. Not after Betsy and I are done." He replied with an air of nonchalance.

Warren couldn't help but stay silent at that as an uncomfortable feeling swept over him. It wasn't really Iceman's tone that bothered Warren, but the words themselves. He knew that Betsy was after…something she thought happened in Vegas. He really didn't mind what she was doing; he just never assumed that it was in any way connected to Rogue. But hearing Bobby's words now, and seeing Betsy go after Logan…did they indeed after all have a connection? If so, he hoped that it wouldn't hurt Rogue in the long run. He had always had a soft spot for the girl, especially after she technically saved his life back when Apocalypse had him under his influence. She had absorbed all the evil Apocalypse had imbedded into him with absolutely no concern for her own well being or the fact that it may have had a lasting effect on her. She could've permanently grown wings or the evil that was placed in her mind could've changed her way of thinking permanently. He sometimes wondered if she absorbed all that evil out of him and into herself, then where did it go? Was it still inside her? Was she fighting it everyday? He severely hoped not.

Rogue had been so good to him after that whole ordeal. He remembered that even after she technically healed him, he was still somewhat obsessed with finding and destroying Apocalypse. Everyone had tried to detain him, tried telling him that he was wrong in his actions, all but Rogue. She was the only one who really understood how he was feeling. She comprehended what he was going through, the pain he was in. How could she not? She had absorbed all his feelings after all. She had even joined him for a bit on his obsessive quest to destroy the undestroyable. She had understood that that is what he needed, to vent out his frustrations and act out on his anger! She knew that he needed to find strength and revenge to make up for feeling so weak…so weak for being brainwashed so easily in the first place. All during that depressingly pathetic stage in his life, Rogue had been there, right by his side, giving him everything that he needed and sharing in all of his pain as if it were her own. Sure they were both on the X-Men, but at the time before all that happened to Warren, both Rogue and himself were honestly not that close. In fact, they hardly spoke at all. It amazed him really how someone whom he merely considered an acquaintance before had stuck by him as if they were life long partners. Oh how the rest of the X-Men grilled his ass for allowing her to become his confidante then.

He had to admit to himself that during that time and a bit after that he had developed some type of feelings towards her. Anyone would be crazy not to after having someone do everything that she had done for him. Now that some time had past though, he knew that it couldn't be categorized as more than a schoolboy crush. It saddened him sometimes to think that they grew apart, but really, he felt that they really had nothing in common. Sometimes however, when they would find themselves alone on that rare occurrence they would talk of old times and par take in some friendly flirting, nothing more. It made him feel better to know that they still could be comfortable around each other.

Sometimes he thought that if the ability to control her powers was not destroyed, then maybe he would've thought of pursuing her more seriously, but he knew he needed touch. It was a shame that someone so full of life like Rogue was handicapped when it came to experiencing such a simple act.

'At least she has Bobby and Betsy.' His thoughts became wary then. When Psylocke was determined to find something out, nothing ever stood in her way. He really hoped that that determination wouldn't blind Betsy into unwittingly destroying her friend's happiness just to prove a point.

His thoughts then shifted towards Bobby. He knew that his brother genuinely cared deeply for Rogue, but realistically, Bobby had lost out on his chance on being with her. To Warren, Rogue really seemed to be happy by Gambit's side, especially tonight. He had to wonder as to why Bobby really didn't make his move before? He wondered if Bobby's wanting to be with Rogue was more about him actually wanting to be with her or because of his dislike for Gambit? Whatever the case, at close observation he couldn't help but think that both Betsy and Bobby were really looking out for themselves and only using Rogue's best interests as an excuse to just get what they wanted and destroy those that they disliked.

'Hmph. With friends like those…who needs enemies?'

Simultaneously

There are many things in this world that would be considered an odd thing to witness. One example would be a two faced cow…or a two faced anything for that matter. Another example would be a woman being sawed in half. Yes, being sawed in half by a magician is only a mere illusion, but it is still an odd thing to see.

Neither of those two examples, however, even came close in comparison to the odd, strange and very usual sight that was on the dance floor at that very moment…and this was no illusion. What was this strange phenomenon you ask? Why, Scott and Jean dancing of course…to hip hop. Yes. It was a very odd thing to behold indeed, maybe even down right scary.

As if they both realized at the exact moment how…ridiculous they must've appeared, they threw each other an embarrassed laugh as they burst out into a fit of laughter.

"Do you know what you're doing?" Scott asked his beautiful wife, who he noticed was moving to the deep bass of the music (if it could even be called that) with as much stiffness and awkwardness as h was.

"No, do you?" she replied, shooting an eyebrow up to take in his robotic movements.

Feeling the need to save at least some of his dignity from her scrutinizing gaze, he joked in mock anger, "Hey! You're in no position to judge. You're not doing that much better!" They both had to laugh at the truth within his statement. "Oh, fuck it! Come here," Scott exclaimed as he clearly gave up on a lost cause. He grabbed Jean's hand and pulled her towards him as he then led her in a slow waltz, "let's just stick with what we know. To hell with all the rest."

They wrapped their arms around each other and began to dance to the lovely and graceful tones of deep hip-hop. Jean nuzzled her face into her husband's neck while she let out a truly content sigh. She now felt sill about worrying about their night out with the rest of the team. So far everything was going rather smoothly…well, besides Sean making a pass at everything with two legs. Remy was occupying himself with Rogue, which was really no surprise there. Jean had found out earlier that evening that they were on an official date this evening. With a quick scan of her eyes she searched the club for either of the two young Southerners. The last she saw them, Rogue had been dancing with Bobby and Betsy while Remy was off somewhere doing God only knew what. 'What kind of date is that if they're not even together during it?' she thought sarcastically to herself. Just as the thought finished in her head though, here eyes landed on one of her targets, Remy LeBeau.

Remy was in the mist of the gyrating bodies in the far end of the dance floor, grinding with someone Jean couldn't make out due to Remy's body blocking them from her sight. From the way his hips were grinding and his hands wondering, she would've put her life on it that he was dancing with any of the many bimbo's that were at the club that night.

'That can't be good for their first date. That relationship…if it even can be called that, won't last till…"

Her thought was left unfinished however because just as Remy twirled his mystery partner around, all was revealed to Jean. Rogue. He had been dancing with Rogue. 'I can't believe it.' Never before had Jean ever witnessed Rogue behave so…carefree. As the two pressed their bodies into each other to continue their rather racy movements, Jean felt a small ripple flow throughout her body. The sensation felt like it must have been a close relative to tension. 'What was that? It can't be…jealousy. No! Of course not! Rogue's my good friend. What do I have to be jealous about.' As she tried to reason with herself and figure out what that ripple of emotion was, her eyes moved back towards the dancing couple again, as if they had a mind of their own. Yes, so they were flirting and grinding, but no skin contact was taking place. A slow smile appeared on Jean's face at that. 'Besides, what do I have to be jealous about? That is, if I were jealous…which I'm not. They can't even touch, nor will they ever be able to. Poor Rogue. I can't be jealous, that would be silly. Not to someone like her.'

"Want something to drink, honey?"

The sound of her husbands voice brought Jean out of her inner thoughts. "Yes, please."

After he deposited her to a small table, not too far from where Emma and Sean were seated, Scott excused himself. "I'll be right back, okay?"

"Okay."

Her eyes followed her husband all the way to the bar but then suddenly shifted a bit farther down it to find the second reason why she was weary about coming out this night, Logan. It had actually been his idea; amazingly enough, that everyone should all hang out together. 'No, wait, originally he suggested only Remy, Scott and himself go out for beers. What was that all about?'

Looking back up at Logan, she noticed that he appeared to be in a very heated discussion with the resident Ninja of the Xavier Institute, Psylocke. 'Well look at that, I wonder what in the world they could be talking about?' Jean thought sarcastically to herself. She knew the answer to her own question for it was quite obvious. Betsy was not an idiot. Even though it pained Jean to admit it, Elizabeth was one of the more intelligent members of the X-Men, given her prestigious upbringing. She had attended all of the best schools worldwide and received all the best tutors and instructors, add telepathy to that mix and you got yourself one smart cookie.

Jean knew that Psylocke was suspicious about the mission to Vegas. Jean also knew that Psylocke had attempted to read Logan's thoughts at breakfast. Most importantly however, was that Jean knew that if Psylocke were to ever find out about anything that happened during the mission to Nevada, she wouldn't hesitate even for a second to tell…especially tell Scott.

Betsy and Jean never really got along, no doubt about that. It wasn't like it was some great secret; everyone knew they couldn't stand one another. The reason for their dislike towards one another was because if Scott. It was well known that Betsy was in love with him and probably still was…but Jean was his wife.

Then we have Gambit. Those two were like oil and water. Usually, one would never find those two alone in the same room together, but if it did happen then there would probably be plenty of spilt blood there as well. Jean had a pretty good idea that the thought of Betsy's best friend out on a date with the Cajun was not a pleasing one to the ninja.

Logan and Betsy really had nothing against one another, but two out of three were enough odds for Betsy to wreck damage upon. When Psylocke was suspicious, she'd usually stop at nothing to get the information that she desired. There was no doubt in Jean's mind that Betsy was probably hounding Logan right now for answers. 'Over my dead body.'

Jean was an Omega level telepath, as where Psylocke was o an Alpha, powerful within its' right but no where near as powerful to break down the shields of illusions that Jean had placed in Logan's mind.

Remy was safe.

Logan was safe.

But most importantly, Jean herself was safe. An impish smile came over her features as she noticed Logan try to escape the ninja telepath, only to fail. 'Poor Logan, he just can't seem to get rid of that girl.' Now that she thought about it, Jean realized that she hadn't seen Logan with a girl for quite some time, a girl that he was really interested in. 'Maybe it is because he is still in love with me. He basically said so in Vegas didn't he? He said he wanted me…that's the same thing right?'

A content sigh escaped her as she relaxed back on her stool. Secretly, she had to admit to herself that it was kind of nice to know that you would always have the heart of a man…especially a wild man like Wolverine. 'There is defiantly no need to feel jealous there either.' Logan may be with other women from time to time to satiate his male needs, but deep down Jean believed that his heart would belong to her and her only.

Yes, everything was coming up roses for her, in her opinion. The sight of her husband returning back with their drinks brought a beaming smile to her face. Just as he reaches her she raps her arms about his neck to treat both him and her to a passionate kiss, careful not to spill the contents within the glasses.

A bit breathless now, not to mention a tad shocked by her sudden change of mood, Scott laughs, "Jeez! Miss me much? What was that for?"

"Oh honey, I was just thinking while you were gone," she replied with a sweet smile, "I'm the luckiest girl in the world."

Ten Minutes Later

Even though it couldn't be heard over the loud thumping music of the nightclub, two wine glasses clinked together for a most joyful toast. To what was the honor of such a toast? Why, the opening of the Massachusetts Academy in Boston. Of course! Just a second step to reaching the goal Charles Xavier and his X-Men fought so diligently to attain.

As the beautiful blonde drank her Pinot Grigio, her deep blue yes couldn't help but fall upon the couple embracing in a slow dance not but five feet away from her. She couldn't help but roll her eyes and sneer at the cuteness that they displayed on the dance floor. In her opinion, the red head was really pushing the whole 'lady' act, No wonder her husband went searching elsewhere for…

"Ah ha! I think I see a wee bit o one o those seven deadly sins boilin' up in ye lass. Envy, I do believe tis called."

"Oh please! Don't make me laugh!"

The playful Irish tinged voice belonged to none other than Sean Cassidy himself, AKA; the Banshee, who's sonic scream held the power to topple buildings. The latter's voice was owned by the beautiful Ms Emma Frost, who's two most deadliest weapons were her mind and body. With her telepathy she could make someone believe his or her wildest dreams had come true or leave you a vegetable for the rest of your life. In her diamond form, she could break a man's bones twice her size yet hypnotize you with her unearthly glow.

Just looking at the two, no one would believe that they both were not only X-Men, but the two X-Men responsible for continuing the legacy by teaching and leading the second generation at the new Massachusetts Academy. At this moment however, they weren't X-Men nor were they teammates. No, instead, tonight they were two friends out on the town for one night for some drinks, dancing, fun, teasing, and maybe…some harmless flirting.

"Hmm?" Sean wondered jokingly aloud, "So, ye say that ye are nae jealous, but come now. I can nae help at noticing how your luvly eyes keep drinkin' in the image o Ol' Scott n Jean over there."

"Darling, I'm just repulsed by the amount of sweetness radiating from them. Honestly Sean, I might get a cavity." Emma replied with a genuine smile as she saw her answer receive a hearty laugh from the Banshee.

"Ah, Emma me lass, ye may fool the rest o em, but nae me. I know that all o that flirting and teasing ye do with Scott is just nae for sport. Ye got a thing for the lad, admit it."

With a cool and calm voice, Emma answered without hesitation or doubt, "Of course I do Sean, just as any female member of the team does or did at one time. But rest assured when I tell you that it is nothing more than a mere crush my dear. I can guarantee you that." Noticing his quirked eyebrow and doubtful expression, the former White Queen went on, "It's like this Sean, Scott is a wonderful man! He is an outstanding team leader and his loyalty to not only Xavier but to the dream itself was unquestionable. I have never met a man who treats everyone…and I mean everyone equally! He is fair, just, highly intelligent, and has a good head on his shoulders. He treats his wife like a princess and is always a gentleman to other woman. He never swears or raises his voice unless it is called for. He gives everyone a second chance and doesn't bring up past mistakes. What woman wouldn't want that?" Taking a sip of her drink, she continued, "However, Scott has certain…issues he needs to get over." As Sean was about to question her meaning about her comment, she simply waved his question off with her hand as she continued, "The point is Sean. That I know whom Scott really wants, his wife. I'm not going to kid myself on that fact."

Sean nodded his head to her statement. He knew that most of the woman were quite smitten with Cyclops, he was just happy that Emma had a good head on her shoulders and didn't fool herself into thinking that she had any hope of breaking them up. Not that Emma wasn't a catch... hell, she could be the catch of a lifetime; especially with the way she was looking tonight!

Her hair had been pulled up into a tight ponytail, leaving all the beautiful features of her face open. Her shirt appeared to be of a Lycra and spandex blend that was cut in a type of Tarzan slant. It was white of course, but seemed to shimmer a bit in the light. Her skirt, which was white as well, was about knee length but had two slits on either side of her thighs that went up her hips almost to the point of indecent.

Noticing the way her legs had suddenly crossed themselves In a very sexy, very alluring, very…inviting manner, which granted him a better view of her toned thighs, made his wandering eyes look up to meet hers once again.

"Enjoying the view?" A wicked smile crossed her features; one that always appeared when she knew she had a man's undivided attention.

"Aye lass, very much so." Sean replied, obviously enjoying the sudden mood shift of the conversation.

Emma too seemed to enjoy the harmless flirtation she often found herself in with Sean. He was a very good-looking man. His dark reddish blond hair was chin length and always seemed unruly, untamable, giving him a rugged wild man look, which was somewhat hard to believe because those who knew Dean best knew he was very much a gentleman. His eyes were a beautiful hazel, which had become more noticeable that evening because of the black cashmere quarter length sleeved top he had on. A man who was secure enough to wear cashmere was all right in Emma's book. A nice pair of dark gray slacks, which was held up by a thick black, silver buckled belt, finished off his outfit. Yes, Sean was what quite many women considered a hottie! Add the accent into that mix and you got yourself the perfect gentleman with a bit of a naughty side to him. Just how Emma liked her men.

She pulled out a cigarette from her case and let it dangle from her lips as she leaned in close to him in a very seductive manner. The fact that one of his hands was traveling up her thigh did not escape her notice; in fact she was rather enjoying it. 'Hmm, perhaps his powers also include making his women scream his name at sonic levels as well.' she wickedly thought to herself. "Well darling," she whispered into his ear ass she removed the cigarette to hold in her hand, "there is so much more of me to see."

They both stared into isotheres eyes as a mutual ache of desire came over them. Their just mere centimeters from the goal they both desired to reach, when suddenly…

FLICK

…A lighter being lit…

Her cigarette butt burning.

"Light Emma?"

A humorous voice sang, interrupting their moment. It was the voice of an Angel…an Archangel, Warren Worthington the Third. "Am I interrupting?" The statement was a mocking joke, for he knew that he was quite obviously interrupting…he just didn't care.

"Why thank you Angel, darling, "Emma said, although her tone clearly not hiding her aggravation of being interrupted from her seduction towards the Banshee, "What would I do without you?"

"Probably have Old Sean here screaming at octaves all night that would surely leave us all deaf by morning."

All three had to laugh in admiration to Warren's honesty and bluntness to the situation, but that was Warren. He wasn't head of Worthington Enterprise by beating around the bush and biting his tongue. That feature in a man was very sexy and appealing to Emma. In fact, she considered Warren himself to be very sexy, especially with the way he looked tonight.

Warren had on an off white silk button up, which had the top two buttons undone, with a pair of tan fitted Gucci slacks. His jacket, a long calve length one that was used for both style and to hide his wings, was the same color of his pants, giving him a whole run way model look. Yes, Betsy was a very lucky girl in Emma's eyes. If the famous Psylocke didn't know how lucky she was to have someone as smart and successful as the angel, then Betsy was not as bright as Emma thought she was. Doing anything to ruin a relationship with someone like him was a mistake only an idiot would make.

"GOD! I need a drink!"

The loud groan of Bobby Drake Worthington, Warren's younger half brother, interrupted Emma from her daydreams of the older of the two brothers.

"Sean, are you drinking this?" Without waiting for the Irish born response, Bobby down his drink in one full gulp.

"Whoa there laddy, ease up there a bit. What's the rush?" Sean asked, not really worried about Bobby drinking all that much but rather Bobby drinking his drink. Didn't the man know you just didn't come in between an Irish man and his drink?

A laugh from the direction of the winged angel took Sean's attention from the Iceman's moping. "Ignore him Sean. Robert here is just trying to drink himself stupid so his eyes will blur everything he doesn't want to see." As Warren nodded his head in a certain direction, both Sean and Emma turned to see what Warren was indicating to.

"Ah! Tis 'bout time those two got serious, no?"

Another round of laughter ensued as Bobby answered Sean's question with a disgusted snort. However, as both Warren and Sean continued to pick on Bobby…at his expense of course, Emma couldn't help but continue to stare at the Southern couple who were slow dancing to hip hop music, gazing deep into each other's eyes. A slow genuine heart felt smile spread across the former White Queens features as her heart swelled at the sight. Memories of Rogue being left in her care for treatment in Muir Island came swimming back into her mind. Emma dreamed of the day when Rogue would find her ultimate happiness. She had suffered so much all those years ago, what with that bitch Danvers attacking her mind and destroying any hope for Rogue to gain control of her absorbing abilities. During Rogue's time at Muir, Emma had become very close to the girl, after all she herself could relate to what she had been going through.

When Emma's powers first manifested themselves, her family had her locked away in an Institute for the insane, what with her hearing voices and all. In a sense, she too felt as if she were being attacked by a hundred different voices simultaneously. She knew what it felt like to be so confused that not even your name felt as if it truly belonged to you. She too knew the physical pain the voices could bring, pain so intense, it felt as if your head was going to explode. Yes, she felt a kind of kinship towards Rogue.

She, along with Moira Mactaggert, took over Rogue's treatment when Xavier could no longer handle her. Yes, it was a fact that Emma had been very strict with her. Yes, she had too been very demanding. Yes, she had made her undergo something's that made the young Rogue cry and beg for no more, but she did it all Rogue's own good, Her treatment was working, albeit slowly, but the progress was there. Emma would've healed her wounded spirit totally if that idiot Logan hadn't crashed in, quite literally…with X-jet and all straight into the Muir Island Hanger Bay, making a ridiculous scene of it all by kidnapping Rogue and taking her to some snowy deserted land. 'Honestly, the man has the thinking capacity of a caveman!'

But all bad thoughts of Logan aside, it did give Emma a sense of great pride to see how Rogue had grown into such a fine young woman.

Really, Emma had no opinion about the thief, whom Rogue seemed to be enamored with. Remy and herself weren't very close at all. Sure, she had heard of his womanizing ways, who hadn't? And in this day and age, what man out there wasn't a womanizer to some extent? IF a woman was willing to give it up so easily to the Cajun, then in her opinion they got what was coming to them.

Gambit's involvement with the Mutant Massacre didn't faze her as well. How could she feel the need to judge someone else considering the shady past she had as well? His Thieves Guild connection too really was no big deal to her. Remy had been an orphan, an orphan who had been taken in by a loving family who happened to be a bunch of thieves. Better thieves then murders, right? If Rogue liked him, then he was all right in her book. However, if he did hurt Rogue in any way, then she will personally kick the living shit out of him.

Just as she finished her thoughts, said couple made their way up to the foursome…cuddling, flirting, and teasing with each other.

"Aye lass…thought you'd never get off the dance floor!"

"Well, y'know Sean, gal needs a breather every now and then," Rogue laughed, "Ah could go for a drink though."

"Here darling," Emma called out to her, "have the rest of mine. You look absolutely parched! Did this scoundrel of a thief leave you out of breath?"

A perverted smirk spread across Gambit's handsome face, "Well Emma, I have been known to leave de femmes gasping for air."

As the men all laughed at Remy's obvious hidden meaning, the ladies just rolled their eyes and shot him a dirty look. The men's laughter was interrupted though as Bobby spoke to Rogue loud enough for all to hear. "Hey Rogue, don't you think you've drank a bit too much already? Maybe you should slow down before…"

The sentence couldn't be finished however because of the Cajun accented voice that interrupted him.

"Fuck off Drake! Rogue a big girl. She can do what she wants. Sides," Remy continued as he put a possessive arm around Rogue's waist, his hand grasping her dangerously low on her hip, "she got Ol' Remy here to watch out for her every needs, me compendia?"

Seeing the battle of manly pride about to begin…and also not wanting any part of it, Warren decided it was best to make his get away, but not without taking the prize of the battle with him. "Honey, you want to dance with me?" Warren asked in a very sweet and flirty tone, to which Rogue replied with a genuine smile and a nod of her head. Together, hand in hand, off the two went to break it down on the dance floor.

Once they were out of earshot though, Bobby wasted no time on turning his anger towards his archenemy. "I'm getting really tired of your little innuendos Gambit!"

Remy's only reply was a slight shrug of his shoulders as he shot Robert the universal sign of 'Fuck You'.

"I'm being serious jackass," Bobby went on, "You treat Rogue as if you see her only as some kind of sex object!"

"Cause I do," Remy answered very casually, "A very sexy object."

"She's a woman!"

"A fine one too."

"You should treat her with respect!"

"I treat her de way I wan' to treat her…de way she needs to be treated."

"'Needs to be treated?' God, you sound like some professional porn star!"

"Why tank you Bobby. Dat's de nicest ting anyone ever say to me."

"Fuck you!"

"No tanks, I's goin' be busy fuckin' Rogue."

"I hate you!"

"No you don't."

"Oh no?"

"No, you just wan' to be me."

"Why the hell would I ever want to be you?"

"Cause dat de only way you'd ever get de chance to get between Rogue's legs."

"…"

Seeing how Bobby was about to launch himself at Remy, Sean, who along with Emma had remained quite as they enjoyed the little debate, decided that now was the time to intervene. The last thing they all need was a full out fistfight between two mutants; who obviously really hated each other, in a crowded nightclub. He could just imagine the long, long lecture they would all more than likely receive if that were to happen.

Grasping Robert about his bicep in a firm grip, Sean advised, "All right now, that will be enough. Bobby, why don't ye accompany me to the bar to get us all another round?"

It was quite clear that the Banshee's statement was more of a command than a request. Bobby did not dare refuse him. He knew that there would be hell to pay if he disobeyed Storm's Gold Teams second in command. With one last hateful glare direct towards the Cajun, Bobby walked off alongside Sean, leaving an arrogantly nonchalant Remy and a highly amused Emma behind.

Turing to face the only remaining member from their table, Remy faced Emma, only to find her untying her neckerchief from around her neck.

"Here," she said, "I think you'll be needing this a lot more than I will tonight."

Taking her offering, Remy quirked his eyebrow at her in a questioning manner, he was more than just a little confused.

"You made quite a few bold statements during you little…conversation with young Mr. Drake Worthington. Tell me Mr. LeBeau, how exactly are you planning on fucking Rogue later tonight when her power will render you unconscious in the matter of mere seconds after coming in contact with her skin?"

Remy had to inwardly wince at that. He knew that Emma cared deeply for Rogue, he could sense it quite plainly whenever the two women were around each other. He hadn't been with the X-Men yet when everything went down with Rogue way back when she lost absolute control over her powers, but he heard the stories; read the files. HE knew that Frost was in direct charge of healing Rogue then. Her failure to accomplish her task still to this day left a residual of regret and guilt.

Emma treated Rogue as if her skin didn't matter, just like he did…something that Remy really admired about her. He would often hear Emma explain sex related issues to Rogue, telling her of all the different ways Rogue could accomplish the deed. Rogue would usually brush it off with an embarrassed laugh, but Remy himself thought that Emma really wasn't kidding when she was talking to Rogue about these things. He respected Frost for making his Rogue feel like a normal woman, even if it was just for those mere moments when the two were alone together joking about men and sex.

"Listen…'bout dat petite…I didn' mean no disrespect towards Rogue. I didn' mean to say anything wrong or…"

"Nonsense Remy," Emma interrupted, "You didn't say anything wrong at all, and actually I believe you said all the right things. I'm absolutely tired of everyone behaving as if Rogue carries some type of plague! I respect you…pursuit of her."

"Well, tank you Emma, mais what all dat got to do wit' dis?" Remy asked as he indicated towards the neckerchief.

"You disappoint me Gambit. Someone who is as experienced as you are in the areas of love should have a pretty good idea as how to use that on someone who can not touch." Emma replied with a wicked smirk.

A slow grin spread across the Cajun's lips as realization sunk in. "Oh, don't get me wrong, I got me plenty o ideas on how to get into Rogue's pants. I just tink it kinda…odd to be using your neckerchief, is all." Remy drawled out, just to quickly add, "Also find it strange dat you actually okay wit' me doin' it too. Not dat I's complainin', me."

An amused giggle escaped Emma's person as she played with her ponytail. The way her eyes glittered and her skin flushed, Remy truly noticed how lovely she was. 'No wonder Cyclops went for her. I would've too.'

"Remy my dear, "Emma said, interrupting Gambit's thoughts, "Contrary to popular belief, it is a known fact that the human body needs release of all of its sexual frustrations. Rogue, who's mutant power of absorption prevents her from skin to skin contact, much less, of any type of sexual intimacy than that of the most average person, statistically has way too much pent up frustration. Masturbation can only do so much for a person, especially when that person, in my suspicion, doesn't even probably know how to masturbate correctly. The human body craves the attention of another human; Rogue's body can't get that attention. All that pent up frustration is quite possibly the reason for Rogue's behavior... her personality so to speak, for example that famous stubborn streak of hers and not to mention the almost obsessive need for independence. Since Rogue cannot control her powers nor her sexual fulfillment, she let's out her frustrations elsewhere. Sadly, sometimes it is on her own teammates but especially towards the object her body most desires but can not have…men, but mainly you Gambit. To put it plainly Remy, Rogue gets horny, just like the rest of us, only she has been horny and hasn't been fulfilled since puberty first started for her. That scarf there may not give you the capability for full blown sexual intercourse with Rogue…but it is a good start, wouldn't you agree?"

Remy couldn't help it; in fact he wasn't even attempting to hide his reaction from Emma's diagnosis. He stood there in front of the beautiful Frost gawking like a teenaged idiot. "Damn petite, is it weird dat I am turned on right now?"

It seemed that Emma couldn't help but laugh at Gambit's response, and Gambit couldn't help but notice how nice of a laugh it was. He assumed that after what Jean told him and Logan about her that he would dislike Emma unquestionably…but looking and her now, talking to her, he just couldn't bring himself to think negatively towards her. He never really got around to talk to her or get to know her before, not that he wasn't interested, a time never presented itself to him since they were both on separate teams. Speaking with her now, he understood why Rogue had such a fondness towards her, something the other females of the team did not, a fact that had always left him baffled. Emma simply saw things as simple and plain. To satisfy and do whatever makes you happy because you only lived once. Emma saw Rogue's happiness in Remy, and vice versa.

Her way of thinking was so much like his own, could that be a reason for Rogue's fondness towards them both? Because the way they thought was what she wanted, but could never have?

How could Remy not like a person like that?

Would it be a betrayal towards Jean?

Did he even really care?

"You non worried I goin' hurt Rogue, like everybody else tink I am?" Remy asked.

"That would be Rogue's problem Gambit, not mine. She's a big girl and knows what she is getting into. It's just a personal opinion of mine that some happiness is better than none at all. Besides, I really doubt that you would hurt Rogue, at least not intentionally."

After a moment in thought, he slowly approached Emma with a flirty expression. With one arm wrapped around her shoulders, he whispered, 'Tank you fille. I dedicate Rogue's orgasm tonight, to you."

With a wickedly amused smile, Emma kissed the side of Remy's mouth before replying. "Make me proud."

Ten minutes earlier

"So, you're interested in Storm? Interesting."

Logan had to grip the side of the bar where he had been waiting for his drinks to prevent himself from turning around and decking the fucking bitch behind him. Just the sound of her British accent grated his nerves. He chose instead to try and ignore her in hopes that she'd just disappear. His expectations shouldn't have been set so high.

"She's too good for you. You have to know that, right? I mean she's a Goddess, while you are no more than a mere…animal. There is hardly anything human left in you anymore, is there Logan? Just a killer trying to pass for a man, am I right?"

Her laugh made it hard for him to keep his cool. The conniving bitch was not only reading his thoughts, but she was playing on his weaknesses, his insecurities. He couldn't understand how his beloved Rogue could have a best friend like her.

"Ah ha! So you're giving me the old silent treatment, are you? Well, that's okay. I don't usually lower myself to speak to those who are beneath me…but I'll make an exception this one time."

Why wouldn't she shut up? Why was she speaking to him? Where was that fucking bartender with his drinks?

"I just thought I would come by and ask you what your opinion was on the whole Remy and Rogue relationship…if it could even be called that? Any thoughts?"

His back was still to her, in an attempt to drown out her voice, or even better cause her to leave.

"If anyone would be looking out for Rogue's well being the most, I know it would be you. You would never let some piece of shit, especially some Cajun piece of shit, hurt your little girl, would you?"

More silence.

Was he leaving an opening for Remy to hurt Rogue? For Logan himself to hurt her, by not protecting her?

"Yes."

He stiffened. The bitch was reading his thoughts.

"I mean, look at Remy now. He's over there flirting with some blonde bimbo. Oops, my mistake, that's just Emma."

Logan had to snort at that one. Picking up the now prepared drinks, Logan made his move to try to get away from the annoying ninja. Betsy however, had other intentions.

During her little one sided conversation with the Wolverine, she had wasted no time in diving into Logan's mind to get any information that would jeopardize not only him, but Remy and Jean as well. She had nothing against Logan really. He was a valuable member to Cyclops's Blue Team, which she too happened to be a member of. He was wonderful to Rogue, another big plus for her. He kept to himself and minded his own business and she had always respected his warrior spirit a great deal. But, like in any other war, there were always innocent bystanders that usually got in the way. They were just victims that happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. They were merely casualties of war, like Old Logan here. For war this was, at least as far as Psylocke was concerned, a very private and very personal one. IT was a war against the white trash swamp manure that had the audacity to even think he was good enough for Rogue, and also against the personally appointed Mrs. Perfect Omega class, I'm-better-than-everyone-bitch, who Betsy just knew wasn't as innocent as she claimed she was.

Poor Logan would just have to go down with them.

As she distracted him with comments that she knew were sure to get him upset, she sorted through his memories until she found the ones she was interested in, the ones pertaining to their time in Nevada.

Still, the images were far too clear. There were no fuzzies anywhere that she could detect. Any trained telepath could tell that this was merely an illusion. But it was an illusion that Betsy was determined to breakdown.

Before Logan could make good his escape, Betsy placed a firm hand around his forearm stopping his movements therefore preventing him from leaving her. No way was she going to let him go without a fight. "Not so fast luv, I'm not through with you."

Logan glanced down at the arm that was detaining him, then back up to the face of its owner. Many men easily fell for the ninja because of her beautiful features, for beautiful she was. Logan however found her to be disgusting. Her personality and lack of ethics concerning her telepathy was enough to make her appear to be one of the most ugly persons he ever laid his eyes upon. Again he wondered how or why Rogue could be such good friend's with her.

Staring deep into her violet eyes with his own icy gray ones and with as much calm as he could muster, Logan said, "Let go of my arm Betsy."

A cheeky smile appeared on her face, one that made her almost appear innocent and sweet.

"No." she laughed. That fact that she laughed, that she found this whole situation so amusing only lowered Logan's already small opinion of her.

"I mean it Psylocke. Don't make me throw you off."

"Just try it."

"I mean it Psy. Don't make me…"

"I'm not scared of you Wolverine." she replied in a nonchalant manner. It was as if she seemed to be bored with the whole thing. Logan knew she spoke the truth however. Betsy would step up to just about anyone, despite who they were with absolutely no fear in her heart.

In the matter of the mere seconds when those words were spoken, Betsy again dove into the Wolverine's mind. She knew that she couldn't break down the illusions, so instead she focused on his feelings pertaining to the mission to Vegas. What she found sure didn't go with the illusion.

While in his "memories" it showed events about their mission and a nice innocent time between friends at the casinos. His feelings however, were far from either innocent or nice. There was confusion and…yes, anger as well. There was guilt, remorse, satisfaction and…lust?

'Hmmm…very interesting.'

Logan studied Betsy's body language carefully, her sudden stiffness, her hesitance in speaking. It was her eyes however, that gave her away. Elizabeth was looking in his direction, but they weren't technically looking at him. IT almost seemed as if she were looking through him, as if he were transparent. To anyone else her appearance would've seemed to be normal, but Logan lived in a house that was swarming with telepaths, he already was accustomed to that small subtle changes in a telepaths body when they were reading someone's thoughts…when they were invading someone's privacy.

'Bitch.'

With a jerk of his arm he pulled himself free from her grasp and began to try to make his way back to Storm. Wait…Betsy was in his mind; maybe it would be best if he went to find Jean. Yeah, that was it, but where was Jean?

"She's with Scott, four tables down from Storm's right."

It was as if Iceman had decided to freeze him on the spot, so suddenly did his movements come to a halt. He slowly turned around, not at all surprised to see that the bitch, AKA: Psylocke was right behind him. Her smile was gentle, innocent. Only her eyes gave her away again. They were cold, cruel, suspicious and mocking.

"Logan," she asked, a truly curious tone escaping her, "Why are you looking for Jean?"

"Fuck you Betsy." He was surprised actually that his voice came out as calm as it did, for his insides were boiling.

"No thanks."

With a grunt of disgust, Logan made to turn and leave, but not before Betsy stated, "I know about Vegas."

He stalled. It was only a half-a-second stall, but a stall none the less, before he turned all the way around to go find Storm. Going to Jean now would be too obvious. God…where was Remy or Jean when he needed them.

"What do you need them for?"

He turned around to face her again so suddenly that she nearly bumped into him.

"FUCK YOU!"

His outburst caused a few stares, but he was beyond caring at this point, besides, they all probably thought they were having some type of lovers spat anyway.

"Yeah, probably."

Bitch.

"Stop reading my thoughts Betsy before…"

"Before what?" she challenged, "Attack me with your little claws in such a public place? I don't think so luv."

"Fuck you."

"I know something happened in Vegas."

"You don't know shit."

"Whatever," she admonished with an eye roll, "I can sense your feelings about the whole thing. Those emotions do not coincide with the pretty pictures a certain telepath we both know most probably painted there."

Stepping very close to her, Logan's voice was low and threatening. "Watch yourself Elizabeth. You're starting to get on my nerves." To a normal person, Logan's threat would've left them pissed in their pants; Betsy however was far from normal.

"I know you guys are keeping something from us about that mission. I can feel it's something bad."

"Like what you guys are keeping about your trip to Muir?" Logan shot back, "Don't be a fucking hypocrite you…"

"Please," she spat out, "don't even compare Muir to Vegas! You can get your little telepath to read all of our thoughts or feelings about Muir and see that is was innocent. Can you say the same about your feelings? Anger? Confusion? Guilt? Lust?"

"Betsy."

A warning.

"What the fuck is that? Satisfaction? Guilt? Lust? Far from innocent I would say, both literally and ethically!"

"Betsy!"

"You are guilty! All three of you and you know it! I can feel it!"

"Elizabeth!"

"Muir will come out soon, and everyone will find out about everything that happened there! They all will see how it was completely innocent, but you three? Vegas?"

"Psylocke, for the love of God…!"

"When will the truth be revealed, Logan?"

"Shut up…!"

"When will the truth about what happened there be revealed?"

"NEVER!"

"Gotcha."

No. Logan could do nothing but stare as a slow grin appeared on Betsy's beautiful features. She truly was lovely to look at. Odd how that that was the only thought that he could process in his head at the moment.

"Thank you Logan. That was all I needed to know." With that, she turned away from him, as if he were nothing…nothing but used goods. But as she walked away form him, she left him with one final thought, one final message.

Logan, who stood frozen to his spot, received her message like a soft lovers kiss in the back of his mind.

"I know you care for Rogue, Wolverine, much as I do. My love for her knows no end. I always thought you'd protect her against dangers of ALL kind, including the dangers of the heart. I know something happened in Vegas. The truth always comes out. If something happened out there that you know about, if it's something that could hurt her, something involving Remy, then please…just tell me. Don't allow Gambit to hurt her. I know you don't want to hurt her. What did he do?"

"…"

How could he say? What could he say? Nothing, he could say nothing. He could think…nothing.

"You disappoint me by being party to keeping this secret. You disappoint me by leaving Rogue in a position where she could get hurt. I thought your love for her knew no end as well but I guess I thought wrong. And if you're worried about Storm, don't be; your secret is safe with me. It's like the saying goes…what are 'friends' for?"

Never before had a lover's kiss ever left him feeling so empty.

A Few Moments Later

"Storm, shut up!"

"I am being serious! I nearly threw you both a condom! Really…I never knew you to behave like such a little whore."

Even though the words were harsh, the two beautiful women knew that the other was only kidding. Often time, Rogue and Storm…or any other female member of the X-Men would find themselves teasing the one another in such a fashion. The topic of this round of teasing was Rogue's 'dirty dancing' with the Gambit.

"Quite exaggerating Storm…"

"Rogue!" Orroro interrupted, "You were bent over with your butt grinding against his…" Her sentence was finished by Storm pointing her finger towards her private area, which caused Rogue to blush and burst out in a fit of laughter. "By the Goddess, some of the positions you were in must have been X rated."

Again Rogue burst into another fit of laughter, and nearly fell off of her stool in the process. Thankfully, Storm reacted quickly and grabbed her unbalanced friend, straitening her back up. "Rogue? Are you all right?"

Rogue absentmindedly nodded her head as she fanned herself with her napkin, all the while continuing top sip on her newly refilled drink. Casting her a suspicious look, Storm asked, "Are you drunk?"

"Yes." Rogue replied, without any hesitation what so ever.

"How much have you had to drink?" Storm asked, only slightly worried for her friend.

"Too much!" Rogue groaned in a truly pathetic response as she slid her drink towards Storm, her head lowering to rest onto the tabletop. 'Take it from me, shugah…I can't drink anymore!"

"Why ever did you drink so much in the first place?" Storm laughed, guiltily enjoying the view of her friends anguish. "This isn't like you."

"Nerves." Rogue whimpered as she raised her head only to clutch it, her eyes squinting as she looked about the club. "Is tha room spinnin'?"

"No." Orroro laughed, "This will teach you to pace yourself. Why were your nerves bad anyhow?"

Rogue shot her an unbelievable look, as if the answer should've been quite obvious. "Do ah really need to answer that question Ro?"

"Remy." Storm answered knowingly."

"Ro," Rogue began, her drunkenness causing her accent to become much more pronounced, "Ah've wanted Remy fo' so long now. So fuckin' long. Ah've these feelin's…here," she pointed to her lower abdomen, "In mah gut, like butterflies n' shit. God…I wan' him so bad!" Rogue's obvious state of inebriation and desperation made it difficult for Storm not to laugh. "Ah just was so nervous, what with this bein' our first date n' all. I just wanted tah relax a bit…y'know, loosen up so I wouldn' seem so uptight all night. Now…God, I want' him so bad. Ah can't control mahself!"

The last few words of her rant were spoken in such a truly pathetic drunken manner, that Storm could not hold in her laughter any longer. "So, it would seem that your little ploy to appear more comfortable and relaxed during your night together…or 'loosen up' as you put it, has backfired. You seem to be a bit…too loose now."

"I can't keep my fuckin' hands offa him!" Rogue cried in complete horror, which only caused Storm to laugh harder. "Ah'm bein' serious Ro! God…ya must think ah'm horrible, huh? Ya probably think ah'm not good enough fo' yar brothah."

Storm shook her head at her young friend. True, at times she often wondered about Remy' interest in Rogue. She knew that Gambit was a very physical man, what possibility of happiness would he find with a woman he could not physically ever touch? She worried at times if his interest in her was only because she couldn't touch, something that would only result in truly hurting Rogue in the end. Still, she had to guiltily admit that Remy couldn't possibly be happy in a real relationship with the young woman, not that she carried a grudge against Rogue. She knew that Rogue had been through much throughout her young life. She respected her a great deal for overcoming all of those obstacles that life had thrown in her way and still remain sane and on the side of the good. Yes, she worried for the ever-growing closeness, but for her to believe that Rogue was not good enough for Remy? Never.

"My friend, it is he that is not good enough for you, "she gently told her, only to quickly add with a mischievous smirk, "however, if you ever tell him that I will deny it to no end."

As they both shared a heartfelt laugh at Storm's comment, Logan marched up with his drinks and placed them…non-too gently, on the table. Looking at him and his treatment towards the poor glasses, one would think that the glasses offended him some way. The scowl on his face would make anyone one watching assume that someone just ran over his dog, for his body screamed of agitation. Rogue actually felt sorry for the poor cigar that Logan was digging his fangs into. Both woman exchanged a confused look before both turned back to face the Wolverine, whom was behaving every bit like his namesake at the moment.

"Logan," Storm asked, "Is there something troubling you?"

Logan's only response was a deep grunt as he began to chug down his beer. Rogue had to wonder if Logan even truly believed in oxygen, because looking at him now, it didn't seem like he was going to be coming up for air anytime soon.

Storm was also not pleased with either his reply or his attitude. He had been in good spirits and behaving very…friendly, before he left to the bar to retrieve theirs drinks. 'What could've happened to change his mood so?' Glancing at the bar, Storm noticed the bartender, who seemed very aggravated by the ever-increasing number of people flocking the bar for a nice refreshing beverage. "Logan, did the bartender upset you in anyway? Does he know we are mutants? Did he tell you…?"

Seeing how Storm was about two seconds from going into 'Leader mode', to defend the world from racism of any kind, he decided to cut her off at the pass, "Nah Storm, ain't no shit like that. Just some stupid bitch at the bar that wouldn't leave me the fuck alone."

"Yah want I should go kick her ass for ya, Wolvie?" Rogue drawled in a highly Ienthused manner, her head propped up on her hand.

Logan had to laugh at his friends' state of being as he thought about what she had said. 'She wouldn't be so willing if she knew that 'bitch' was her best friend.' "Nah darlin', but I'll keep ya in mind is she fucks with me again."

"Sure thang sugah. "Rogue stated as she stood, albeit somewhat unsteadily, and slung an affectionate arm around Logan's waist. Her gaze became mischievous as she playfully checked him out from head to toe, ""Sides, can't blame the gal, can we Ro? We know all woman find the man too irresistible!"

"Talkin' bout me 'gain chere."

Logan didn't even attempt to hide his eye roll at the damn Cajun's cocky ass attitude.

"Remy!" Rogue exclaimed as she wrapped her arms around his neck, pressing her body impossibly close to his. Remy, in turn, grasped her hips, much to Logan's dislike. He bent his head down towards hers as his lips hung quite literality dangerously close to hers. "Miss me chere?"

"Mmmhmm," was the only response that Rogue could possibly manage to say because the sound of distinct growling was suddenly heard from behind them. However, before any protests from Logan could be made, Storm interceded, "Remy, are you behaving like the perfect gentleman, my friend?" Storm knew that it would be Remy's first reaction to answer with an inappropriate joke, it was just the way he was, but Storm clearly knew that this wasn't the right timing for such games. Logan was in a foul enough mood as it was. There really was no need to add more fuel to the fire, as far as she was concerned.

Remy noticed the way his best friends eyes glazed over with a film of pure white, he knew what that meant…'no kidding around.' Rogue's unbalanced movements in his arms dew his attention away from Storm though. 'Rogue drink too much.' Perhaps now was not a good time to be a smart ass after all. "'Course padnat. You know dat Remy treat all de ladies wit de utmost o courtesy."

Logan had to snort at that one. "Courtesy? So that was courtesy you were doing out there on the dance floor with Rogue?"

Remy knew that there were moments in his life when he should've kept his smart-ass mouth shut…but didn't. One example of this would be when he was sixteen and his father, Jean-Luc was defending him to man that claimed Remy had deflowered his young daughter. He could still see the passion in his father's eyes as he 'claimed' that he raised his sons better than that, to respect a young lady. Well, when the father of the 'young lady just wouldn't shut up about how 'pure' his sweet child was for after about two hours of griping, Remy could hold his tongue no longer. In exasperation with the whole ordeal, Remy had exclaimed, "Trust me Monsieur, dat ange was deflowered a long time befo' I planted my seed in dat garden." Yes, to that things went from bad to worse really fast, would be putting it mildly.

A second example of Remy choosing to express his views instead of keeping his opinions to himself was when one afternoon at the Mansion, Remy was feeling quite bored with himself. After a while, his restlessness got the better of him and he came up with the perfect idea to liven up his day. He had broken into the Professor's private office, removed all of personal files, his furniture…including the carpet, and basically everything else that wasn't already nailed down to the ground. As he was being lectured by both Cyclops and Xavier…after about six hours of doing the task, Remy decided to comment in a very calm-I'm-better-at-everything-than-you-are fashion, "Well, why don' you yell at everyone else? If dese X-Men so well trained, don' you tink dey would've noticed me stealin' all yo shit in broad daylight?" Even though his words rang too true, because embarrassingly enough every member of both teams was present that day, the fact that he was trying to justify himself did not go over too well with them…especially Cyclops.

Now however, seeing the highly feral look gleaming in Wolverine's eyes, Remy knew better than to put him self in a situation like those again. Right now was the time to keep all his smart-ass remarks…for he had a ton, to himself.

Rogue on the other hand? Well, she must not have gotten the memo.

With her arms still wrapped around her Cajun stud, Rogue never took her eyes away from Remy's face as she spoke to Logan, answering his question, "Nah sugah, that wasn't courtesy. That was just good old getting' nasty!"

Remy had to tuck his head into the crook of Rogue's neck to hide the laughter that was escaping him. 'Oh chere, you gonna kick yourself in de ass tomorrow morning fo dis.' Seeing as how Logan was becoming increasingly agitated by the second, Remy quickly decided to sift the conversation to a different path. "Stormy, how your night going? Logan behaving himself, non?"

"Yeah Ro…go on and tell us what a true softy Wolvie really is!" Rogue added with a romantic sigh as she finally decided to detach herself from her Cajun counterpart.

With a slight pink blush to her cheeks, Orroro's gaze became somewhat…soft, as she turned to look at the Wolverine. "He has been…perfect."

"I tink I's gonna be sick." Gambit gagged as his love behaved the complete opposite.

"Aww." Rogue cooed, truly swept away with the moment. Remy knew that underneath that entire tough exterior, Rogue was really a big romantic at heart…but this was ridiculous! To him, Rogue looked as if she were literally swaying with heartfelt emotion. 'Merde! She is swaying!' Gambit wrapped his arms about her waist as she nearly swayed right on over onto the floor.

"Chere, you tink you want some fresh air, Hahn?'

"Yeah," Rogue grunted in a pitiful way.

SNICKT!

Three pair of adamantium claws was suddenly found in Remy's face. 'Fils de putian.'

"Ya better not try any funny business Cajun, or else…" His threat couldn't be finish however as Storm grasped his arm and pulled it downward.

"Logan! Are you completely mad? We are in a public place! Put them away!"

"Ya talk about me doin' stupid shit, mon brave."

"Pah!" Logan stated as he waved at all the inhabitants of the nightclub away.

"Sides Logan," Rogue giggled as Remy began to pull her away, "there is a reason why they put the 'fun' in 'funny business'.

Remy pulled Rogue away with a laugh as Storm held Logan back with one of her own. "She is merely joking my friend. Besides, she is too drunk to realize what she is doing."

"That's what I'm afraid of!" Logan exclaimed as he pointed in the direction of the disappearing couple.

Giving Logan a scolding look, Storm said, "You know that Remy is beyond attempting to take advantage of any woman."

"Yeah…cause they all fall at his feet anyway, right?" Seeing how he was beginning to upset the Weather Goddess, Logan moved on close to her, so close he could smell the surprise coming off of her from his sudden move. Looking at her dead in the eyes, he stated, "I'm bored of this place. Ya wanna go somewhere else darlin'? Somewhere a little more private?"

With a gulp and a slight blush, Storm nodded her head yes.

Five Minutes Earlier, A Few Feet Away

"Where in the fuck are they going?"

"Bobby, calm down." Psylocke scolded as both she and Bobby noticed the departure of the Southern couple.

"No way! Fuck this! Rogues not in her right state of mind, Betsy! No way is that fucker going to try anything!" the Iceman exclaimed as he tried to make his way around Betsy to pound Remy's face in.

The fact that a small cloud of frost came out of his mouth as he spoke did not go beyond Betsy's notice. "Robert, please! Chill out…and I don't mean that literally!"

At his questioning look, Betsy rolled her eyes as she huffed out of her mouth, a small cloud of frost forming because of the action. Bobby sheepishly looked down as he tried to calm his nerves and get his power back in check. "Sorry, but…Betsy…she's with him." Robert whined.

Placing a comforting hand upon his shoulder, she replied, "I know Bobby. I know." She felt bad for Bobby for a numerous amount of reasons, one being his obvious jealousy towards Gambit having Rogue by his side. Elizabeth thought that it mustn't be easy to be in love with one of your best friends, and assume that they are oblivious to the fact. That was far from the case, actually. Rogue had a pretty good idea of Bobby's feelings towards her, true she may only recently had noticed it, but she did know. Even if Remy wasn't in the picture, Betsy was afraid that Rogue would still feel the same way towards the young Iceman. She believed that it was his lack of motivation to pursue Rogue that had ruined it for him, therefore leaving him permanently stuck in friend mode. Rogue was a true blue Southern Belle at heart. She was the type that needed to be swept off of her feet. That is where Remy came in.

Remy, it seemed, could've cared less about her powers. Actually, now that Elizabeth thought about it, when Remy found out about Rogue's mutation, he seemed more fascinated with the idea of being with her, obsessed sometimes. That is what bugged Betsy so much about him, the fact that he wanted to be with a woman he could touch, that he craved to be with her. Why would any man want that? She knew that Rogue was nothing but a challenge to him. 'If only I could read his thoughts.'

Despite it all though, a small part of Betsy had to admit that she was actually happy for Rogue. She couldn't remember ever seeing Rogue as happy as she did tonight. She seemed to be glowing! In Elizabeth's opinion, it had been far too long since Rogue behaved this carefree…too bad one of her friends happiness caused so much pain for the other.

"Tell me you found something!" Bobby's plea brought Betsy out of her inner thoughts. The look of desperation that etched his features gave focus back to the ninja. Yes, Rogue was happy…but she was happy because she was ignorant to the happenings that were going around her. It was Betsy's duty as her friend to protect her in affairs of the mind, body, and heart.

"Don't worry Robert. Have I ever let you down?"

"No," he replied.

"And I won't now."

At her words, Bobby couldn't help but feel his spirits swell with new found hope, hope that would lead Rogue into his arms. "You found something then? YES! What? What did you find out?" he asked excitedly.

"Logan's feelings about Vegas are odd. He's nervous about something. Nervous and guilty…almost sad.

An aggravated sound flittered out from the Iceman. "Sorry Betsy but, what the hell does Wolverine have to do with any of this?"

"Everything! Think about it! Remember when we got back from Muir…at the breakfast table? Remember hoe nervous they all were when I mentioned Vegas?"

"Yeah…but…I don't know." Bobby replied, unsure as to where Betsy was going with all of this.

"Well, I think something happened out there."

"What?"

"I'm not sure yet. Logan is the only one I can read, but due to some…issues I am having, I can't get that information as easily as I would like to."

"Okay…fine, whatever. But what does the Mission to Vegas have anything to do with separating Rogue and Gambit?" he asked, obviously confused as to what the connection might be.

"Look…I can't get into it now. I'll explain everything later. Right now, I need to focus all of my attention on finding what I need. Rogue had to realize what a bastard Remy really…and soon! Especially with her getting the negator."

All right," Bobby replied hesitantly, wishing he knew more of what she was planning. He completely trusted in Betsy's ability to help him. IF the answer to separating Rogue from Gambit permanently lied in some secret that Logan had, then so be it. "Will you keep me posted at least?"

"Of course," Betsy began, but then poked him in his chest repeatedly as she scolded him. "In the meantime, you need to start putting the moves on Rogue. You have to at least give her some kind of sign that you are interested in her Robert. You have to get her attention marginally off of Gambit!"

"I don't know…"

"I can't do it all on my own Bobby."

"Yeah, but…what if…"

"You want her right?"

"Yeah."

"You cant' be shy with her forever. Rogue likes them cocky and flirty. Come on Bobby, I've seen you in action before. Help me out?"

"O-Okay."

Five Minutes Later

"Now, I don't mean to be rude to ye boyo, but…I have to ask," Sean slurred as he eyed Scott up and down with a very exaggeratedly amused, suspicious fashion. Anyone could tell that the man was well on his way to going from down right drunk to exceedingly inebriated…what with him nearly falling out of his stool every two minutes and the way he tried to feel up on anything with breast. "Now, I don't know if me eyes are playin' tricks on me…"

"It's the age!" Bobby chimed in, which received a very ungentlemanly gesture aimed at him from the drunken Banshee in response.

"As I was saying me boy," Sean continued, never once taking his glazed over eyes off of Cyclops' form, "I don't know if me eyes are playin' tricks on me, but…in the name of all that is blessed lad…WHAT IN CHRIST'S NAME ARE YA WEARING?"

"DUDE!" Bobby exclaimed, never one to stay quiet for long, "I was about to ask the same fucking thing!"

"Mid-life crises, eh Scott?" Warren laughed.

He knew it would happen. It would have only been a matter of time. He knew that sooner or later, their restraint would pop and the jokes would start. He turned to face his wife and gave her a look that clearly said, 'I told you so.'

"Oh, hush, all of you! I think you look splendid, Scott." Emma cooed.

Before Jean could snap at her or let alone get angry at Emma's blatant come-on's, Betsy, another of Jean 'favorites' spoke. "I agree with Emma…"

"Thank you darling." Emma smiled, knowing that Jean would hit the roof by having both herself and Elizabeth teaming up against her, a fact that she would bet Betsy knew as well.

"…personally, I think the new look suits you, Scott." Betsy continued, "However, although you do look splendid, I prefer the old you. Wouldn't you agree Frost?"

Picking up on Psylocke's cues, Emma went with it. "Hmm…I see what you're saying darling. You do look absolutely yummy, Cyclops, but it seems like you're trying to be something that you're not."

"Or someone that you're not." Betsy finished.

"Yeah…like GAMBIT!" Bobby blurted out, causing the entire mutant group gathered to fall into true fits of laughter. Agreements and sarcastic remarks aimed towards Cyclops were heard about their table.

Jean, for her part, was completely horrified. Was she unconsciously attempting to transform her husband? Was she trying to change him? She loved Scott. Why would she try to change the way he was when she had fallen in love with him because of the very reason for the way he was? Jean's eyes took in all of her friends' features. Sean, Warren, and Bobby were still teasing Scott about his choice of clothing, while Emma attempted to stick up for him. As she turned to look at Psylocke, she noticed that the ninja's eyes were already staring back at her, as if studying her. She noticed the dangerous twinkle that shone in them.

Psylocke was well known throughout the X-Men as being the most ruthless next to Wolverine, however, where Logan tried to keep his anger and violent urges directed towards his enemies, Betsy directed it towards her teammates as well. 'No discrimination of any kind as far as Psylocke is concerned.' Jean knew that one of Betsy's favorite quotes were, 'keep your friends close, and your enemies even closer.' Psylocke trusted no one save a handful of people. If Jean thought about it, she could probably name those people. They would consist of Robert, his brother Warren, Rogue, and Scott of course…to hell with the rest. She recalled Elizabeth proclaim a numerous amount of times that if one of her so called 'friends' were to ever even attempt to betray her, then she would not hesitate to gut them with her katana. Of course it was moments such as those where either Cyclops or the Professor went into one of their lectures of trust among teammates.

Looking at her now, taking in her cold calculating state, her evil smirk, her whole body language that screamed, 'I'm on to you bitch!' made Jean think that maybe little Miss Psylocke needed a reminder of who the more powerful psi was to put her back into her…

"It was Jean's idea, guys!"

The sound of Scott's voice.

"Come one! Lay off." He laughed, unwittingly breaking the little stare down that had been going on between the Phoenix and Psylocke.

"What?" joked Warren, "I seriously doubt that! I mean, why the hell would Jean want you looking like Gambit! She has better taste than that!"

"Better taste than what?" came a gruff reply. All present turned to see Logan and Orroro join them at their table.

"Aye! They're ya are me lassie. I did nae have a dance wit ye yet, ye naughty girl." Sean slurred.

"I apologize Sean, although, I do not believe that you are in a condition nor the right state of mind for any more dancing…let alone drinking." Orroro laughed.

"Pah!"

"Don't worry about him darling, I'll look after him and make sure he makes it to bed safely." Emma remarked which caused plenty of catcalls and whistles to be thrown in the Banshee's direction.

Sean, loving the attention due to his drunken state, looped his muscular arms about Emma's shoulders as he seductively asked, "Is that a wee fact girl?" Emma merely laughed heartily in response, as did the rest of the group…except Jean.

She had remained quiet as she stared at her husband for any clue or indication that he might be jealous of Emma's flirtation with Sean or any other man.

Being able to smell Jean's discomfort, Logan decided to change the conversation to something he assumed wasn't about Jean. "So, what were you talkin' bout earlier?"

"Jean wants GAMBIT!" Bobby blurted, almost as if he was incapable of shutting up.

Logan's eyes immediately flew to Jean, wide with shock. Jean, whom had also been slightly caught off guard by Bobby's outburst snapped out of it first and began to laugh along with everyone else, albeit somewhat more stiffly. "No…that's not true," she stated, feeling somewhat odd for having to address Logan personally for the first time since their incident, "They're just teasing Scott because they think he looks like Gambit tonight."

Relief swept though Logan, only to be destroyed again as Storm spoke. "Aah, yes! I do see a slight resemblance."

Not enjoying where the conversation was going, mostly because he too thought that Scott looked a little too much like the Cajun and didn't even want to contemplate as to why on earth Jean would dress him that way, decided that now would be the perfect time to make his exit…with Storm of course. "Yeah…well anyway, Storm and I are getting' outta here. All this fuckin' music is killin' my ears! Not to mention I'm hungry as shit. We're going to Harry's for some grub."

"Anyone care to join us?" Orroro added out of politeness, even though inwardly Logan prayed that no one would take her up on the offer.

As the 'no's' were called out, Logan was about to get the hell out of there, but not before his 'Fearless Leader' stopped him. "Logan, before you go…have you seen Rogue or Remy?"

Before Logan could answer, Bobby spat out the answer in an obvious angry voice. "They walked outside like fifteen fucking minutes ago…together!"

"What?" Scott asked, a little surprised by both Bobby's tone of voice and the fact that Rogue had left without telling him first. Yes, Remy would do something like that, but not Rogue. She was very responsible, probably one of the most responsible of the team. Whether it be during a mission or during her own private time, she would always let it be known where she would be so in case of an emergency, she could be located easily. 'I knew Remy would be a bad influence on her.' Scott thought to himself.

"Rogue had a bit too much to drink, Scott. Remy and I both thought it best for her to get some fresh air. Remy more than likely will take her home as well, seeing as how they arrived in Remy's vehicle anyway."

During her entire explanation, Scott took in everything she had said with a firm head nod. He was grateful that Rogue had told someone and that Remy's presence did not influence her responsibility negatively. "So she informed you she was leaving?" At her nod, Cyclops seemed satisfied. "Alright then, you two drive safely." With that, two were out of there like a bat out of hell.

As the group returned to their conversations, the sound of Warren's arrogant laughter was heard over all of their ruckus. Everyone present looked at him oddly, wondering why he was laughing when no one made a joke of any kind…all except Bobby that is. Bobby knew well his brothers warped sense of humor, he also knew what was probably what was going on in his mind and where he was going to go with it. All he could do was roll his eyes at his brother's arrogant sense of humor. In some ways he was so much like Remy. It was an observation that Bobby had often times mentally made before. To say that he hated it would be an understatement.

"What's so funny luv?"

"Aye lad. Let us all in on the joke."

"Just thinking, that's all. Remy…Rogue…alone! She's drunk and Remy being, well, Remy…who knows what might happen." Warren said with a mischievous grin. "What do you think might happen bobby?" Warren loved that fact that he could get on his brothers nerves so easily.

"Fuck you, Warren. Watch your mouth, Rogue's not that kind of girl and you know it asshole."

"Ah, but Remy is me boyo." Sean added. He usually was one to never participate in this type of teasing, but he was too drunk to really care at this point.

"Go to hell, both of you! Rogue wouldn't let that Gumbo piece of shit touch her even if her life depended on it!"

"I don't know Robert," Emma calmly stated, "You did see how they were dancing out there. Looks to me like Remy was doing a world of touching then."

After a momentary five-second pause, Bobby's anger about the whole situation, as well as not having a good comeback got the better of him. He pointedly shot the bird to first Warren, then Sean, then lastly Emma as he screamed, "FUCK YOU! FUCK YOU! AND FUCK YOU!"

Through all the ruckus of laughter, Scott managed to be heard. "Okay, okay, calm down. Everybody calm down," he began, "Now, I hate to say it, but I agree with Warren. Rogue is not in the right state of mind and Remy might get mixed messages from her, especially from the way she was dancing with him not too long ago. Perhaps we should…"

"Oh Scott," Emma interrupted, "Leave them alone! They are grown adults! Rogue understands the consequences of her actions. Besides, she may be a little drunk but she's not stupid and neither is Gambit."

"Yeah, Logan would skin him alive." Warren stated as both Bobby and Sean nodded their heads in agreement.

"Not to mention I would rip off his balls with my dullest blade and make him eat it for breakfast." Psylocke stated, a tad too passionately for everyone's liking.

"Humph…I expect them to do something but if he tries anything she isn't comfortable with or ready for then I'll turn his brains to mush." Emma said plainly, as if she had done said deed countless times before.

"But you can't penetrate his shields, "Jean said, "No telepath can."

"Lucky for you…oops, I mean Remy." Betsy slyly said. As the rest of the team continued with the discussion of the many different ways they would inflict bodily harm on the thief if he were to harm Rogue, another discussion was being taken place at that same very moment.

"You got a problem Elizabeth?" Jean asked, the annoyance in her voice very obvious.

"No, do you?"

"You've been throwing little innuendos my way all evening. IF you have something on your chest, then say it already, if not then shut the fuck up!"

"Ouch Jean, that's not very lady like thing to say. Careful, don't want to loose that perfect rep of yours now do you?"

"What's your problem with me this time?"

" I want the truth!"

"ABOUT WHAT?"

"What happened in Vegas?"

"…"

"Cat got your tongue?"

"I don't have time for this!" Before Jean could sever the connection though, Psylocke hurriedly continued.

"I know you put false images in Logan's mind."

"Why would I do a thing like that, Betsy?"

"Why don't you tell me?"

"I didn't…"

"Then who?"

"Betsy, you know that Logan's mind is filled with false images. This isn't new News to anyone!"

"Ah, but fresh one's from Vegas?"

"Betsy, you're crazy."

"Maybe. Maybe not. Maybe I should just go to the Professor and see what he says…Jean? Jean?"

At her silence, Betsy knew that Jean had pulled out and closed off her mind to her. A small chuckle escaped the ninja. She was close, she could feel it. Jean on the other hand was furious. 'Leave it to Psylocke to butt into affairs that are not her own!' Trying to focus again on the conversation that was going on with the rest of the group, Jean only became even more annoyed when she found out that they were still discussing Rogue and Remy. Out of pure frustration, Jean blurted, "Oh guys come on! Just let them be! Remy will flirt, she will too, then throw him away. Remy will drive her home and Rogue will probably just puke her brains out. She'll be fine. Besides, it's not like they can do anything even of they wanted to. Rogue can't touch without killing, remember?"

"No Jean, we didn't, but thank you so much for reminding us wit such beautiful words." Emma spat coldly to her, as everyone else shifted with discomfort from Jean's lack of couth towards Rogue's predicament. Such harsh and blatant words were not often used, at least not openly, when discussing Rogue and/ or her powers, not so much for pity but rather for respect for all she had been through. Everyone knew that Rogue would never touch again without seriously hurting someone. They all were not ignorant to that fact. It was still nice, however, to have the fantasy that her problem was not there for Rogue benefit, so she wouldn't feel like a complete outsider, much like Cyclops and his situation with his powers.

"That's not what I meant. I didn't…you know…"

"It's okay honey," Cyclops soothed, quick to defend if not protect his wife, "We know."

Jean attempted to look everywhere but at the disapproving faces of her friends. She tried to ignore Betsy, Emma's and Bobby's outright anger. She tried to avoid Warren's disbelief and Sean's disapproval. She tried to pretend also that she didn't see her husband discomfort.

"Besides," Emma suddenly began, causing a few to jump, Jean was never more glad to actually hear Emma speak, "It's not like they can't do anything. Remy is a clever and imaginative young man with tons if sexual experience," the last part was directed towards Jean, or at least she thought they were, "Partnered up with Rogue, I am certain that or resident thief has plenty of ways to sexually gratify not only himself, but Rogue as well. I actually believe that Remy has the potential to have our dear sweet innocent Rogue screaming at pitches old Banshee here would be jealous of."

"UGH! FROST! I really didn't want to hear that!" Bobby groan as his forehead hit the tabletop, causing everyone to either sympathize or laugh at his behavior.

"You're just upset because it's not you Bobby. Hell, I don't think you ever made anyone or anything scream before. Do you even know how?" Warren laughed.

As they all teased back and forth, Jean felt her mind wandering away again. Back in Vegas, she recalled Remy claiming that he had a few ideas around Rogue's powers…just as Emma had mentioned. At the time, neither herself nor Logan wished to hear the extent Remy was willing to go to act in a sexual manner with Rogue, mostly because it sort of freaked them out on exactly how perverted the man could get. Now however, Jean wished she had let him speak. She wondered what he would do to Rogue. She wondered if in fact he would actually go through with it if the situation ever presented itself, or if he was all talk. She wondered where he was now. Could it be that he was still with Rogue? Would he actually try an attempt to make a move on her, as Emma believed he would? She wondered if Rogue would enjoy it, or more importantly, would he.

It was said that sex was wonderful, but sex with the one you love was magnificent! If they were behaving sexually towards each other now, then was Remy enjoying her above all others? Would Remy enjoy Rogue above herself? And if that statement was true, then why did she and Scott not have that? Why was she left unsatisfied? It just wasn't fair. How could Remy find ultimate pleasure with his love, but she herself couldn't with Scott? It just wasn't fair! How was it possible?

'…It isn't. Rogue can not touch, therefore despite what small pleasure Remy will feel with Rogue, it will never be fully experienced because of that inability to touch skin to skin. He will always be left with wanting more, even if he doesn't admit it to himself. Just. Like. Me.' Jean thought to herself, suddenly feeling better about things. How could she be jealous of a girl that she felt so sorry for. Remy supposed undying love towards Rogue was the only thing that Rogue had to hold on to.

"I PROPOSE A TOAST!" Sean exclaimed a bit unsteadily, which caused his friends to snicker, for the tales of Irish drinking were being proven true tonight, "TO EQUALITY! TO FRIENDSHIP! TO TRUST!"

Many agreements and cheers were given in response to the toast, but were easily halted from the Banshee's interruption. "I'm not finished ye morons! Let a man finish his fucking toast with out ye damn interruptions." Ignoring his laughing friends Sean continued with a much louder tone of voice than before there fore drawing many other occupants of the club to hear him, something easily accomplished for him because of his power, "TO MEN! TO WOMEN! TO BEAUTIFUL BOUNCING BREAST! TO ALCOHOL AND IRISH MEN AND PLENTY OF WILD FUCKING SEX!"

Along with lots of laughter, the gathered X-Men rose their glasses to the toast…as well as many other occupants who had heard the drunken Irish man's toast.

Outside

He tried not to laugh, really he did. Seeing his love topple over from tripping on her own two feet, however, was his breaking point. HE had tired to help her, really he did, but she kept insisting that she did not need his help, guess she was wrong. Honestly, who wouldn't laugh a the sight of the Famous Southern Belle in an undignified heap halfway in and halfway out of the backseat of his Ferrari? Ofcourse the murderous look she was shooting him with did give him an excellent reason to sober up real quick.

"Somehtin' funny Cajun?"

"Non chere…"

"Then ya want tah a help a gal out here?"

"But you say you don' wan' my…"

"SHUT UP AND HELP ME!"

"Of course mon amour, right away." Loving the opportunity to find any excuse to wrap his arms around his ladylove, Remy took his sweet time helping Rogue up from her tangled form. He could help himself, his hands admired her small waist and flare of her hips as his eyes took in the swell of her breast and the smoothness of her neck. 'Mon Dieu, she beautiful.'

Rogue noticed Remy admiring her form and the way his hands seemed to linger a bit too long on her, she couldn't help but to blush, but any embarrassment she might have felt at that moment was overshadowed by her boldness. 'Ah, alcohol is a wonderful thing.' As soon as she was up and standing on her own, she wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her body impossibly close to his. With her mouth now hanging dangerously close to his, she whispered softly to him, "Thank you Remy."

He lost all sane thinking at that moment. She drove him mad with want and lust; with love and devotion. Not even thinking about the consequences, he backed her up harshly against the side of the car as he pressed himself against her. He was thankful that they were outside in the parking lot because he was sure that some people would consider the way they were wrapped around each other borderline indecent. "Rogue," he rasped as he felt himself…his mouth, descend towards hers. Just a mere half an inch and their kiss would've been sealed, with all consequences included. Lucky for both Remy and Rogue…more for Remy however for a numerous amount of reasons, their little 'moment' was disrupted by a melodious laughter. A laugh that Remy recognized quite well; Storm's laughter.

They both reluctantly turned their head in the direction of the familiar sound. Exiting the entrance of the dance club was none other than a giggling Storm accompanied by a smirking Wolverine. Remy's eye's followed them as they made their way to the many cabs lined down t he street. His eyes also took in how Logan's hand was possessively wrapped around his belovedStormy's waist. The fact that it seemed that Storm actually leaned into Logan also did not escape the Cajun's notice. The sound of soft laughing coming from beside him broke his hypnotic stare towards his two teammates. Looking back at his love, he saw the mocking look she was gracing him with.

"Looks like those two are having fun. Wonder where they're going?" With lowered eyelids, she ran her hands from around his neck, down his chest to rest on his hips, "Wonder what their gonna do once they get their, hmm?"

Not wanting to even pretend to think about what Rogue was suggesting, mostly because he didn't want the image ingrained into his mind for all eternity, Remy decided to focus on something else, his chere, but mainly on a question that he'd been meaning to ask her. Looking at her eye to…well, glassy eye, Remy softly asked her, "Chere, you knew 'bout Logan's crush on my Stormy." It was more of a statement rather than an actual question, for he already knew the answer. He just wanted to hear her say it.

"Oui." She replied playfully, the slight swaying back and forth of her body not escaping his notice.

'Maybe now dat she a bit tipsy, I get me some answers.' Staring deep into her eyes, as he called forth his rarely used, but sometimes-deadliest weapon in his arsenal of mutant powers; his charm power. His eyes began to swivel in a hypnotizing swirl as his voice became monotone yet soft, carousing, seductive and inviting. "Why you never tell me 'bout Logan's feelin's befo'? Why you keep it a secret from your Remy? Why don' you tell me mon chere? Go on and tell your Remy everytin'."

Usually, when Gambit would question folks, they would go into a trance like state, so lost would they become under the intense gaze of his swirling ruby eyes. He'd done it a million times before, why then…oh why…was he seeing a completely different reaction coming from Rogue now? Instead of her being lucid, submitting and out of it , she appeared to stiffen, tense, and look completely NOT out of it. 'Merde.'

With a soft shove; soft in Rogue's case causing him to tumble back a goof few steps, she made her way around the car and into the passengers seat with only a few staggering steps due to her consumption of alcohol. Following her cue, Remy entered the drivers side and started the car, but before he pulled out he turned to face her and asked her in a soft cautious voice, "Where we goin'?"

Still staring straight ahead, she answered him in a very monotone voice, "Home."

"Why? It still early…"

"Isn't is obvious Remy. This night and especially this here date is officially over."

Looking back to stare straight ahead, Remy decided to voice what he pretty much knew they both were thinking. "You mad."

Not a good idea.

Rogue was famous around the Xavier Institute for many reasons, the first and main reason was also the most obvious…her powers. She was the Untouchable. The second was her distinguishing features, such as her hair and accent. The hair was the cause to many a skunk jokes and the accent gave her the title of the resident Southern Belle of Xavier's. The third was the scary one, however. Even though Rogue was usually found in a good mood and acted a sweet as the y came, if someone had the unfortunate pleasure of angering her…of really angering her, they would know why else she was famous for. Rogue's wraith was enough to give the Devil himself nightmares. Most all who lived at Xavier's had experienced either at on time or another the 'Wraith of the Rogue' as it had come to be known. Remy had especially come across it many times before, he even had the physical scars to prove it. Judging from her body language, the Cajun would have to guess that by the end of his date with Rogue, he would be gaining a couple of more scars to add to his collection.

"Mad? MAD? Mad ain't the word ya no good White Trash Swamp Snake!" Rogue shouted, he southern accent doubled by both the alcohol and her anger. "Ya tried your stupid freaky eye thang on me! Ya tried tah charm me Gambit! ME! How could ya? Ya should a known it wouldn' work! Don't' even sit there and try to deny it either cause I know ya did! Just cause Ah'm a little drunk right now don't mean ah'm stupid! What the hell is wrong with ya? How could ya try to take advantage of the situation Remy? How could ya try to take advantage of me?"

That is what he did try to do, he had to admit that even to himself. Because of the vast amount of psyches in her mind, Rogue was very hard to read by both telepaths and empathy. It wasn't necessarily impossible but in order for a serious mental attack to in sue, it would take a lot of concentrating on the 'paths' part. That is the reason why whenever Xavier wanted to enter her mind, she would first have to be rendered unconscious. While asleep, all of her psyches would 'rest' as well, only then would her mind become truly open to telepaths and empathy alike. Even with her unconscious, Xavier still felt actual physical pain reading her. With her being a tad drunk at the moment, Remy hoped that it would make his attempt to influence her mind a bit easier…he guessed wrong. 'Oh well, can't win dem all. Only ting left is to make tings right again or tonight's progress will just end up being for nothing.' "I's sorry chere," Remy sighed. He decided to just go with the truth and hope that she would forgive him. "I know what I did was wrong. I's just got worried 'bout my Stormy, dat's all. You gots to understand, non? Just a little maybe?"

Seeing the honesty on his face, Rogue too sighed as she nodded her head, yes. Feeling a slight wave of relief run through him, he decided to continue to press his luck, after all, he wasn't called Gambit for nothing. "I's also gots to admit Roguey…I kinda hurt dat you never tell me 'bout Logan's feelings toward mon souer."

"REMY!" Rogue exclaimed, "Ya can't hold that against me! Ya know mah friendship with Logan is just as close as yours is with Storm. Would ya ever tell one of Storm's secrets?" At his silence, Rogue continued, "That's what ah thought." She placed a gloved hand over one of his own that was lying on his lap. "Just cause ya were curious doesn't give ya the right tah try and take advantage…especially when ah'm drunk, shugah."

With his eyes lowered, he nodded his head in agreement and shame, but when she began to pull her hand away, Remy's hand shot out to grab onto hers and brought it to his chest. Looking intently into her eyes, Remy asked her, "Speaking o' which chere, answer me dis, why did you drink so much tonight?"

Feeling a blush spread across her cheeks, Rogue knew she was busted. Sure she could try to lie, but this was Remy. Gambit would be able to see straight through her as if she were made of glass. Also, there was that little fact that she was well known for being a horrible liar. 'Just tell the truth ya moron. There's no shame in it.' That was easier said than done, though. This was the cocky ass Cajun she was dealing with. She was sure that he would tease her endlessly if he were to find out the true reason why she drank so much. The last thing she wanted was for her to end their date with her knocking his ass out for picking on her. 'Oh well, my mama taught me not tah lie…well, actually Mystique taught me tah always lie, but that's besides the point. The point is that I'm gonna tell him the truth. If the slimy Cajun decides to poke fun then he will just have tah deal with the consequences of his actions.' Tearing her eyes away form him and staring out of the widow instead, Rogue mumbled something that was barely audible, but Gambit easily made out what she had said. He decided to go against his better judgment and go ahead and give her a hard time about it anyway.

"Excusez-moi?" Remy exaggeratedly asked, a mock smirk appearing, "I didn' quite catch dat chere. Care to repeat it fo' me?"

Resisting the urge to knock his face in, she hurriedly spat out again in the same low mumbling voice.

Making a condescending tsking sound, Remy shook his head back and forth as if he were scolding a small child. "Non, non. Je sius desole mon chere. Dat's still no good. A little louder an' more slowly, si vous plait."

Grinding her teeth to the point of painful, Rogue turned to face the cocky thief and very slowly, very audibly stated, "I-was-nervous."

With a sigh of satisfaction, Remy leaned back in his seat to present her with a gentle, but still insufferably cocky grin. "Dere…now was dat so hard?"

"Fuck you Gambit."

"Whenever you wan' bébé, you know I's always ready."

This time, Rogue didn't fight the urge, she did roll her eyes, but the blush that washed over her made her rude gesture loose all it's worth. "Let's just go home."

"Non," Remy replied, "Why was you nervous fille?"

"Give it up swamp rat, I ain't spilling. It ain't that important anyway."

"Not true, if it cause you to drink dis much den it be pretty damn important…especially to me." Leaning towards her, Remy cupped her chin and turned her head to face him. Seeing the gentle look he was giving her, Rogue couldn't help blush. Running his hand down her cheek, protected by her hair, he whispered to he, "You so belle when you blush." IT was a comment that only made her blush even deeper. Continuing in the same low tone, Remy said, "I know I was teasin' befo', but not no more. Talk to me Rogue. I promise not to tease no more. Why was you so nervous?"

Looking into his eyes…his beautiful red and black eyes, Rogue knew that he wasn't lying to her. "Just…I've nevah been on a date before."

Se spoke so low, he had to move his head closer to hers just to hear what she was saying. "So dat's why ya was nervous, cause dis be your first date?"

"Yeah," she whispered as her eyes continued to gaze deep into his, "But, it ain't just that, it was our first date together."

"Oui." Remy couldn't help but gaze at her lips…her full pouty, luscious lips. Those red lick able, kissable, suck able, bite able lips. "Dis a special moment for us."

"Yeah, sorry I ruined it and went and got myself drunk, sugah."

Sugar.

Hoe he wished he could give her some 'sugar' right now. To hell with the consequences. Being in a coma wasn't all that bad, hell, he'd been in them plenty of times before…but then Rogue would have his memories. Even more importantly, the ones pertaining to Vegas. He couldn't kiss her, even though he was willing to in spite of the coma…or could he? Giving her a mischievous grin as his eyes met hers again. "Don't worry 'bout dat chere. As matter a fact, if dat how you act all de time you get some alcohol in you…den we might go drinkin' mo' often, Hahn?"

They continued to stare into each others eyes, completely lost in the others gaze as the silence stretched on and on. Who knew how much time had passed. Seconds? Minutes? Hours? Unimportant. There was only he and she. Just them and the silence.

"Remy," Rogue sighed, breaking the peaceful silence, "Are you charmin' me?"

All he could manage was a slight shake of his head. No. He too was completely mesmerized. He loved how her face was so flushed, how her breathing was coming and going in short pants. He'd seen his precious Rogue in many moods before. Angry. Sad. Happy. Annoyed. Shy. Confused. Bored. Everything. Never this. No, this was a look he'd only seen her wear in his dreams, his most erotic dreams…his fantasies. This was the look of lust. Raw, unadulterated lust. Lust she had for him…towards him. "Non. I thought maybe you was charmin' Me." he whispered to her as his head, his lips were inches form hers.

"We can't…" She wanted to silence herself. She wanted to just abandon all inhibitions and let him have is way with her, but the rational side didn't want him to get hurt. Seeing him so close to her, how unafraid he was of her power, made her go against her claim as she found the need within her to move closer to him.

"Ssh," he silenced her, "Close your eyes." At her questioning and confused look, he whispered, "Trust me." As soon as he spoke those words, he could've sworn that he heard the heavenly angels from above curse him…damning him for even thinking he had the right to utter those words of trust to her. He didn't care though…he had become a damned man a long time ago and the fact that his sweet Rogue did in fact close her eyes as act of her complete trust in him made him much too distracted to be bothered with trifles such as angels.

Removing the small white sheer scarf that Emma had given him; God bless her soul, Remy unfolded it and gently placed it over his loves face. She looked like a virgin bride on her wedding day.

Feeling the strange lightweight cloth on her, Rogue opened her eyes to see Remy staring passionately at her through the sheer white material. "Remy?"

He firmly wrapped both of his arms around her, one about her waist and the other about her upper back, his hand cupping the back of her head and neck. "Rogue, I gonna kiss you right now. I gonna kiss you long and I gonna kiss you hard. I gonna kiss you de way I's been dyin' to kiss you fo' three years now. It's gonna be a kiss like dying man needs water. You understand me femme?"

His voice held such pent u passion that Rogue literally shook with fear, nervousness, excitement and anticipation. She never believed that any man would want her this much. She had to admit to herself that as much as she wanted it, it did kind of frighten her. All she could manage to do was nod her head.

"You don' want dat den you best speak up now, cause once I start, I don' tink I's be ready to stop fo' a good bit." Remy subconsciously knew that if Rogue really wanted to, she could throw him straight through the windshield, through the club walls and out the other end, however, all rational thought for him was gone at the moment. "You wan' me to stop?"

A shake of the head. No.

Remy could feel how she was shaking. "Bein. I know you nervous, I feel you trembling'…don't be. I's not goin' hurt you, relax. I teach you everything. Trust me."

His lips descended onto her hers for their true first kiss. And as their passion rose for each other, as he heard the sweet whimpers and soft moans and sighs from his beloved Rogue, he also thought he heard the distant sound of crying.

No…splashing?

It had started to rain.

The angels were weeping.

Weeping for the pure soul that lied within the arms of a damned man.

YEAH! I'm back! Woohoo!

Thanks to everyone who reviewed and had the patience to wait things out till I got back on my feet after the whole Katrina disaster! I really appreciate it!

I LOVE YOU ALL!

I will try to start updating a bit more quickly…but I still ask for your patience with me.

Thank you again.

Next time: Things get a tad 'intimate' with a certain few of our characters. You wouldn't believe me even if I told you.