X-Men: Evolution

Title:" Twisted."

Series: Second Chances

By: Rachel

Email: LivingDeadSheKat@aol.com

Author’s Note: A special thanks goes to Morwen for writing " Push". Man that got my gears going on Scott angst.

Archive: Go for it! Just let me know that you’re doing it.

Rogue groaned as she closed her history book. Her report on ancient Medieval entertainment was finally over. She put the print out into her book bag and shut her laptop off. She could finally get some sleep. She was thinking of the Joust as she gathered her clothes and walked down the hallway. She was going to Bayville University and she was able to stay at the mansion still. At least until that one sorority picks her up. She looked up to see Jean talking to Kitty. Rogue smirked.

" Hey!" Jean called out.

Rogue walked over, wondering what the hell Jean wanted.

" You need to get changed. I’m here to take you hostage," Jean said.

Rogue raised an eyebrow, " Excuse me?"

" Trust me," Jean said in the ‘ask no more questions’ tone of voice.

Kitty giggled, " Can I come along?"

" Not a good idea," Jean said.

Rogue watched Jean for a second or two.

" Prepare to start chanting Greek letters," Jean messaged to Rogue.

That’s when Rogue decided to bolt down the hallway to the shower room. She took a quickie shower and fixed her hair and makeup. She put on some ragged bell bottom jeans and a snug black shirt. It had a black cat sitting on ‘13’ on it. Her hair was put into a ponytail. She opened the door and Jean smiled.

" Let’s go," Jean said.

Rogue followed her, and pressed a red button on her watch. If she had hoped to look normal, she’s got to be able to touch people too. They went out and Rogue stopped on the steps. Duncan was sitting in his convertible smiling.

" This isn’t about ADT is it?" Rogue asked.

" Trust me you’re in ADT. This is just a party," Jean said getting in.

Rogue shrugged and jumped into the back. Duncan sped off as Rogue buckled her seat belt. Rogue watched the trees fly past them.

" Are you going to tell me anything about it?" Rogue asked.

" It’s a surprise Kate," Duncan said.

Rogue’s face-hardened, " Whatever."

Duncan knew quite well he wasn’t supposed to call her that. Only Scott did. And Rogue hasn’t seen him in almost two years. Storm had been leading the group since most of the younger X-men were going to college. They stopped at Duncan’s house. It was twice as big as his parents’. Rogue thought Duncan could be a jerk sometimes. There was like a ton of cars there. He turned off the engine and they got out. Rogue shoved her hands into her pockets. They passed Scott’s car, which was now painted a metallic dark red. No more racing stripes. Rogue knew it was his car.

" Now just act civilized," Duncan said looking back at her.

Rogue punched him in the back with a growl.

" Go fuck yourself Jock itch," Rogue growled.

Jean made a face as Duncan opened the door. Rogue walked in without another word and Jean looked at Duncan.

" Is she always like that?" He asked.

" NO. You feeling her up last Christmas didn’t help her opinion of you," Jean said.

" How many times do I have to apologize to her?" He asked closing the door.

" You’d have to understand her Duncan. And you haven’t made the effort to," Jean said.

" Hey Duncan, about time you made it to your own party," a tall girl said. " Scott’s knockin’ everyone dead at pool."

" I gotta see this," Duncan said.

Rogue was already at the pool tables watching the blood bath.

" 8 ball, right corner pocket," Scott said as he did the shot.

" Nice one Shades," Duncan said. " I thought you weren’t the party type."

" Oh shut up," Scott said as he racked the balls again.

" You are not the reason I came here anyways."

" Then who is?" Duncan asked.

Scott ignored him, " Hey, who wants to try to beat me this round?"

Rogue stepped forward, " Me."

She could see Scott smile out of the corner of her eye.

" 50 bucks says that Rogue beats him," Jean said holding up her money.

" I say 100 that Scott beats her," another said.

Rogue picked her pool cue and chuckled. Several people were putting up a pool of money on who’d beat who. Scott came over to her.

" This is turning into a match isn’t it?" Jean asked.

" Scott’s already won about 500 already. It’s a full out tournament all right," one girl said.

" What if they tie?" One kid asked.

" Another pot for Tie folks. All bets are final!" Duncan exclaimed.

" Nice to see you again," Scott said.

Rogue glanced at him, " Remember, you’re supposed to still hate me One eye."

The game was pretty entertaining. Duncan seemed to love it the most. Jean was too it seemed. Scott looked like he was sweating bullets. Rogue was an even better pool shark then anyone thought.

" Okay, ultimate pot, I’m gonna put the car my parents gave me last year," Duncan said.

Rogue rolled her eyes as she did her shot. Who wanted a 2001 Aztec anyway? She has wanted one for awhile.

" You hate that car," Jean said. " What makes you think anyone else would want it?"

Rogue sat against the table as Scott did his shot.

" If I sink the 5 ball it’s mine," She said putting out her hand.

Duncan came over and shook her hand. Rogue noticed the worried expression on Scott’s face. She hadn’t told him about the cool device Hank made for her yet. He sank two more with his shot. Rogue leaned down and aimed.

" 5 ball," she said.

She sent the 5-ball sailing down the far pocket. It just barely tapped the 8 ball. Duncan swallowed loudly as Rogue gave him a sly look.

In the end, Scott won. Rogue smiled as Duncan counted out the money to Scott and gave him the money. Rogue then chuckled as Duncan gave over his Aztec keys to her. She put them into her pocket and made her way to the balcony. There was too much commotion going on. At least it was nice outside.

" Now just act civilized," She mumbled. " Fuckin’ jerk doesn’t know what the word means."

She could hear someone step onto the balcony. She glanced back at the doors. She closed her eyes, wondering just what made her come to this party..

" Now, if I remember, last time I was brooding on the balcony I ended up in the pool," A voice said.

Rogue smiled, " Yeah. I miss all the good parties."

She opened an eye to look at him. She then turned her back to the view and smirked.

" So, what brings the hermit out into view?" Rogue asked.

" Kurt’s been on me about it. You know how he is," he said leaning on the rail next to her. " What about you?"

" Jean told me it was vital," Rogue said shrugging.

He chuckled, " I bet she said something like ‘I’m taking you hostage’."

" Exactly," Rogue said.

The wind was now playing with several parts of her white streak. She watched the people inside enjoy themselves.

" Have you found a major yet?" he asked.

" Forsenic science," Rogue said. " Even though I love history just as much."

This was getting uncomfortable for her.

" Alex was hinting about transferring down here. Claims he misses me or something," Scott said.

" That would be nice," Rogue said.

She sighed, wondering just where this was going.

" What about you? Do you know what you want to do with you life?" She asked.

" For one thing, finish College," Scott said. " The rest I haven’t figured out yet."

" How many years you have left?" Rogue asked.

" One if I skip the summer break," Scott said.

" I have like three years or something left. That’s if I keep this major," she said.

" Has Jean even told you that I was looking for you?" he asked.

" No she didn’t," Rogue said. " Why?"

" Just a lot of things that’s been on my mind lately," he said.

Rogue nodded and glanced out at the view. She heard the door open and she looked to see who it was. Some girl she didn’t recognize.

" We’re all heading back Scott," she said.

" Okay," Scott said.

Rogue felt that same familiar ache in her chest as he started walking away.

" I’ll catch up with you again soon," Scott said to Rogue..

" Sure," She said looking away.

He left and she frowned. Times like this she wished she didn’t quit smoking. She turned around and waited for him get into a van. He was the last one to get in. Rogue thought that perhaps the girl was his new flame.

" You assume too much," a voice said in her head.

Rogue sighed, walking into the party again.

" Will you ever get out of my head?" Rogue thought.

" When you stop broadcasting I will," Jean thought back to her.

When Rogue found Jean she poked her in the ribs. Jean gave protest and looked at her.

" Where’s Duncan?" Rogue asked.

Jean nodded towards the Ping-Pong table. Duncan was dueling with some well-built guy.

" How’s Scott?" Jean asked.

" I’m not sure," Rogue said watching the match. " I think something’s wrong with him. He doesn’t seem the way he used to be."

" Why do you think that?" Jean asked.

" When would he wear a black shirt with cuss words on it?" She asked.

" What do you mean?" Jean asked.

" He was wearing a ‘Fuck Everything’ T-shirt," Rogue said. " You know… Fuck trains, Fuck Congress, Fuck Work, Fuck sleep."

" Nice language. You kiss Mom with that mouth?" Jean asked.

Rogue laughed, " I’m gonna take my new car for a ride. I’ll see you guys later."

" Duncan’s gonna have the papers changed for you tomorrow btw," Jean said.

" Thanks," Rogue said leaving.

She made her way to the odd looking car. It was half covered in bird crap. She noticed the driver’s side was unlocked and sat down. She then noticed something on the passenger’s seat. She glanced at it for a moment then picked it up. It was a Matthew’s stamped envelope. That made her wonder even more. She opened it up to find some money and a folded up letter.

" You know me. This goes to you for giving me one hell of a match. I did miss you, and I was glad we could be in the same space and not fight." She read to herself.

Rogue turned the key, not remembering when she had put it there. It roared to life as she checked the gas gauge. Her drive back to the mansion wasn’t eventful. She was very glad the car was automatic.

The lights were out at home. Rogue used her key to get in and walked quietly upstairs. She felt really bad now, even though the night went well. Why is it when she’s ready to sleep her mind is still on full speed? She turned on her lamp and glanced around her room. It was just her now, after she requested a single room. She still talked to Kitty everyday. But sometimes she just wants to be alone. She went to her desk and fished around in the drawers for her cigarettes. She was lighting one up when she noticed an envelope on top of her history book. She was going for it when Kitty phased through the wall.

" Hey there," Kitty said sitting down on the bed.

" Hi," Rogue said opening the letter up. " Did you write this?"

" Nah," Kitty said. " Scott dropped it off after you left for the party."

Rogue did a double take, " What?"

" I’m serious. Why? Did you see him?" Kitty asked.

" Yeah, he was at Duncan’s party," Rogue said.

Kitty nodded and looked out the window. Rogue lean against her desk as she read the letter. Rogue’s face suddenly paled.

" What’s wrong?" Kitty asked.

Rogue couldn’t talk. Kitty got up looked at her again.

" Rogue please answer me," She said.

" Can you just leave?" Rogue asked. " I don’t want to be around anyone right now."

" Why? What does the letter say?" Kitty asked.

" Leave me!" Rogue exclaimed.

Kitty didn’t have to be told twice. She came back hence she came. Once Kitty was gone Rogue fell to the floor. She kept reading, not being able to stop herself.

Rogue felt like she was going to be sick.

" Damn you Duncan. You two watt," She thought. " You put me in this fucking situation. Who am I kidding? I put myself into this situation. Kitty warned me that this was going to happen. Everyone did. Now I must deal with it."

She gave up on the idea of sleeping. She grabbed her wallet off the desk and left. This time driving her beat up clunker. Her favorite nightspot wasn’t too far away. It had the normal amount of people there. The bartender gave her a nod as she sat down. She glanced at her watch, knowing she didn’t have class the next day. A whiskey on the rocks was put in front of her. She looked up and knew who it was. The bartender stood there wiping a shot glass.

" Nice job," Rogue said. " Does everyone else know about it?"

" No," the lanky guy replied. " What brings ya?"

" Demons do," Rogue said. " Always."

The guy smirked, " If it makes you feel any better you aren’t the only one."

Rogue hmmphed. He was just trying to make her feel better. It was working however.

" You are such a dork Todd," She commented.

He laughed, " Hey what else do you expect from me?"

She looked over at the pool table, and smiled.

" How about another whiskey?" She asked.

He poured her another one and smiled.

" Put it on my tab," she said getting up.

He smirked and went on his way with other customers. She goes over to the pool table and watch Scott.

" I wonder how long he’s been here. Hell, it took me 2 hours just to find this place again." She thought.

There wasn’t anyone watching him play, which was odd. She quietly came over and sat down on one of the few barstools near the table. He turns to get the rack and saw her.

" Drink?" She asked offering the other whiskey.

" How long have you been sitting there?" He asked taking it..

" Not very long," She said. " Uh, look, we need to get some things out in the open."

He sat down on the edge of the pool table and steepled his fingers. She blinked.

" How much have you had tonight?" She asked.

" Two beers," he said. " I’m not a drinker."

" So I’ve noticed. Do you want this thing to take place here?" She asked.

He smirked, " Well, this pool table is pretty stable. I’m sure no one will mind a show."

She tried to hold back her laughter, but she failed miserably. He laughed with her.

" We can take my car," Scott said getting up.

" Sure you can still drive?" She asked.

" Yeah," he said standing up.

Rogue noticed he still wore that interesting shirt.

" Okay, in high school you were always pressed. What’s your excuse now?" She asked.

" High car insurance has forced me to seek cheaper clothing," he said. " Me and a phone booth had a disagreement 8 months ago."

Rogue smirked as they passed Todd at the bar. Somehow Lance had come in and discovered him. Lance was now half way through his own beer. Scott shook his head and they walked out.

" What did you drive here?" Scott asked.

" My tempo," Rogue said.

" The same one that Kurt landed on when he miss ported?" Scott asked.

" Yeah. My hood is still dented," Rogue said.

They made it to his car and Rogue jumped on. Scott went the civilized way via door. She shrugged.

" Where shall we go?" He asked.

" I think the x-house would be good. Everyone pretty much leaves me be now," She said.

They chose a park that wasn’t too far away instead. They sat down on a picnic table facing away from the walkers.

" You didn’t think I’d go to Duncan’s party did you?" She asked.

" I had thought you would. But I didn’t know for sure. I thought it would remind you too much of Risty," Scott said.

" I’m so over that," Rogue said. " I wouldn’t have gone unless Jean pushed me to. Why did you go?"

Scott took in a sharp breath, " I had gone there originally to get shit faced. However, that pool table beckoned me more then the booze did."

" Are you losing your mind?" she asked.

" Excuse me?" Scott asked in return.

" In that letter you left at the house. You sound almost like you were in it."

" I’m not losing my mind. At least I don’t think I am. I’m just dwelling on the past too much. Too much for my own good."

Rogue watched him, knowing this is how he wanted to be in High School.. But things change. He was putting up some façade so no one would wonder about him. But she knew the truth after all. She couldn’t think of anything to say.

The minutes crept by painfully. Rogue was getting worried.

" Hank told me once that he had a present for me. I didn’t think it would be important," She found herself saying. " I went into the Med Lab and he had this bracelet with me. He told me to pull off my gloves and hold it in one of my hands. Kurt then grabbed my face and I screamed.. I had a death grip on that bracelet and found out I didn’t take Kurt’s powers. God, I was crying for days. Just someone brushing my skin gave me a panic attack."

Scott looked at her intently and she glanced at him. She felt on the verge of a panic attack again.

" Maybe we shouldn’t try to explain this thing," Scott said. " Do we even want to?"

Rogue raised an eyebrow, " This thing? What are you talking about?"

Right after she said it, she regretted it. Her mind’s eye could see it stung something deep in him. Rogue felt like a puddle of shit now. She closed her eyes and scolded the part of her who said it.

" This thing that is always making me think of you. The one that made you come with me here. That very same thing," he said.

" I am not hearing this," part of Rogue’s mind yelled.

" Shut up," Another part yelled back.

" She’s gonna end up crying herself to sleep," Kate, The hidden side of her whispered.

" Scott, please…I… God…," she said fumbling for words to connect.

She screamed mentally at the other voices in her mind. She knew she wasn’t crazy. But her sides were at war. She swallowed and fought to keep her fat tears from falling.

" If we hope to get anywhere with this," she said carefully.. " We must take baby steps."

Her inner Kate cried out as Rogue tried not to. She looked up at Scott, wondering just what was going on in his head. Maybe if she focused hard enough. Suddenly a painful flood rushed through her head. Rogue cried out and covered her eyes. She felt his hand on her shoulder.

" She’s freaking out on me," a voice said in her head.

Rogue’s eyes opened with a flash.

" I am not freaking out!" she nearly screamed.

Scott looked at her with a bewildered look.

" Tell me you just didn’t," he said.

" Think of something," Rogue said staring at him.

" Anything."

He turned his head, and suddenly smirked. She laughed, then stopped.

" Oh shit," they said in unison.

" Wait! Slow down!" the professor exclaimed.

Jean watched Rogue talk a mile a minute as Scott stood at the window. Jean had to admit, he looked a little worse for wear.

" I was wondering what Scott was thinking. So I thought if I focused hard enough I could find out. This flood went through mah head. Like a river. Then suddenly I heard his voice in my head," Rogue said slowly.

The Professor looked over at Jean.

" You had mentioned Rogue being able to communicate with you before," he said. " Had you either thought she could be telepathic?"

" Maybe it’s leftovers from when I took Jean’s powers," Rogue said.

" Not really Prof. I just thought that it could be something anyone could develop it," Jean said.

Jean was fishing. She was now worried. If it was leftovers, does that mean Rogue would have optic blasts? That brought Jean into mean mood. She could almost see Scott watching Rogue’s every move. Why with the sudden jealously? She’s got Duncan for damn’s sake. Jean pushed it out of her head and smiled.

" This is a very interesting twist," Xavier said looking out the window.

" What else you think I can do?" Rogue asked.

" I’m sure more will develop with time. Do work with this new gift Rogue," he said looking back at her.

Scott had returned to his apartment three hours later. His eyes felt like hot coals burning in his eye sockets. He pulled off his shoes and tossed them, not caring where they ended up. His room was a mess, he’d been meaning to clean it. But it wasn’t on his top ten list. He had slowly slipped into a carefree attitude in his time at college. Or was it hopeless and not carefree?

He pulled off his socks and walked over to his bathroom. The guy in the mirror mocked him. Scott wanted to smash the mirror into hell. He hated looking at himself, especially when he was in a dark mood. His fairly good mood was soured when Jean watched him. Somehow she always got under his skin. He grumbled and walked back into his room pulling off his shirt.

It was just a few months ago when Duncan put him into the hospital. He found Scott passed out in his room, slashed arms and all. Scott didn’t know what the hell he was thinking. Maybe he thought letting the blood flow would let the pain go away.

What it gave him was two months of consoling and looks of pity from his ‘friends’ at the college. He had to give it up to Duncan. The guy hadn’t looked down on him for it. Or at least, not in front of Scott.

Now Rogue was back in the mix. He didn’t know what to make of it. Yes, he left a letter for her back at the mansion. But, that was in the believing she wouldn’t be there at the party. But he was thankful she was there.. It was nice to see someone smile and get along truthfully with him.

But how was she able to get into his head? That was flooring him. Jean and he used to have whole conversations in thought. He never thought Rogue could have the same ability. He lay back on his bed and closed his eyes. Might as well test the new link out. Slowly Rogue’s thought started coming to him. He guessed she was in her room or shower.

" Man my head feels like shit. What is up with me anyways? Oh sure, stomp his hopes into putty. Maybe I’m still werided out about this. He wants to be around me? Maybe he hit his head too hard. Maybe I hit my head too hard. I couldn’t have even seen this coming. Maybe things are finally going my…OWCH! Shit that hurt. Man, I hate forgetting about my earrings. Hmm, I wonder how it’d look like if I…" she was nearly broadcasting.

Scott let the link fade again. He needed to cool down and relax. His body was screaming for sleep. He was out of sleeping pills already. And he didn’t feel like putting himself into a drunken stumper. He sat up and sighed, knowing what could get him to sleep faster. He grabbed his towel and made his way to the shower.

Chapter 2

Rogue waited for her friend Sarah to get on with it. Sarah had chin length red hair in braids. There was an interesting pattern of spiky bone growth in between her eyebrows. It looked fake, so no one would think she was a mutant like Evan Daniels. The bells above the door jingled as someone came in. Rogue didn’t want to open her eyes.

" I’ll be right with you," Sarah told whoever came in.

Rogue heard her sit down and shift in the chair.

" Okay, stick out your tongue," Sarah said.

Rogue did as far as she could. Sarah grabbed her tongue with a pair of odd tongs and put a thick needle through the hole. Rogue jumped with the shock. Sarah then grabbed a purple tongue bar and put it in place of the needle. She then removed the tongs.

" You’re gonna have to eat like ice cream and such. And keep your mouth as clean as you can," Sarah said.

Rogue looked like she was testing the bar inside her mouth.

" Okay sir," Sarah said looking at the new person. " What would you like?"

Rogue got curious. She opened an eye and smiled.

" Scott!" She exclaimed.

" You know each other?" Sarah asked.

Scott rubbed his forehead, " Yeah. Went to the same high school."

Sarah smiled, " I know who you are. Scott Summers. Kate’s told me a lot about you."

" I’m also the one who called about your project," Scott said.

Rogue blinked, " Wha?"

" Actually I passed it over to Kate. You should see what she came up with," Sarah said smirking.

" I didn’t know it was you!" Rogue exclaimed.

" Now I’m worried what you came up with," Scott said.

Sarah waved him to come over to them.

" You should see what she created," she said.

Scott walked over as Sarah took out a large sheet of tracing paper. He almost did a double take.

" Well, you asked for symbolic tribal art right?" Rogue asked.

" Yeah," Scott said studying the design.

" Plus, She knows you and would know what you’d like," Sarah said.

Scott noticed a bone spike was starting to grow out of Sarah’s elbow. She covered it up shyly.

" I need to go make up the temp outline. I’ll be right back," she said getting up quickly.

Scott sat down in one of the chairs and rubbed his hands together.

" She’s one of us isn’t she?" He asked.

" Yes," Rogue said. " I’ve been working on getting her to come back with me to the mansion."

Sarah came back with the temp outline in one hand.

" I’ll tell you what," She said. " You do Scott’s tattoo and I will."

" Kay," Rogue said. " Let me get my gun together and stuff."

" You need to take off your shirt," Sarah said. " You’re the one who wanted a Back tattoo."

He pulled the shirt over her head and Rogue chuckled as Sarah nearly choked.

" Ack! Down the wrong tube!" Sarah exclaimed.

Scott leaned forward as Rogue put some green goo on his back. He felt the razor going across his shoulders and such. She then gently wiped his back.

" Okay," she said. " This is going to be cold."

Scott shuttered as Rogue smoothed on the temp outline. She then peeled the paper off and blot it dry.

" I need you to go check and see if it’s in the right place," Rogue said.

She gave him a hand mirror and he walked over to the large mirror on the wall. He smirked, liking where it set.

" Why does this suddenly remind me of Blade’s tattoo?" Scott asked.

" Cause it’s almost the same design. But you don’t have any on your neck. I don’t think you want a pain like that," Rogue said.

He sat back down on the chair. It looked like the same kind of chairs they use in the Dentist’s office, but without arm rests.

Rogue turned on the tattoo gun and sighed.

" I need to you turn in the seat. Ya know, with your back facing me," she said.

Scott did what she asked and watched Sarah watch Rogue.

" You don’t mind me using your nick name for you do you?" Sarah asked.

" No," Scott said as he mouth twitched. " Calling her Kate shows that she means a lot to you. And her letting you call her that shows she feels the same."

" The outline is the most annoying thing. Pain level depends on your tolerance to it," Rogue said, her cheeks were turning pink.

" Kate’s been my teacher lately. She used to be like me. Withdrawn, anti-social," Sarah said. " But I’m working on it."

Scott could see her focusing hard on his tattoo.

" Are you gonna start calling me Kate all the time?" She messenged to him.

" If you want," Scott returned.

She smiled.

" Don’t mess up Kate," Scott said.

Sarah smiled and Kate kept on going. About 40 minutes later the tattoo was done. Rogue, now going by Kate, was gently taping a bandage to cover up the fresh tattoo. She helped him put his shirt back on. Sarah looked at her camera, checking how many pictures she had left.

" I have like two pictures left on this roll. Can I use them on you two?" Sarah asked raising an eyebrow.

" Sure. If Scott’s up to it," Kate asked.

" Why not," Scott said. " I’m pretty much numb from the neck down at the moment."

Sarah smiled, " Great! Just give me a moment to think of a pose."

" I failed to mention that she’s a Photography major," Kate said. "Which means we’re probably gonna end up in her portfolio."

" There’s our fame and glory for us," Scott said.

" I got the pose," Sarah said. " Now work with me."

She persuaded Kate into letting Scott put his arms around her waist. Both were thinking Sarah was up to something.

" Now I know you’re known for the quartz," Sarah said. " Think you could stand not to wear them for a picture?"

" If you want my eyes closed," he said.

" I do," Sarah said.

Kate up and gently took the shades off his face. She gently made him tilt his head down close to Kate’s neck.

" You know," Kate said. " I think you and Evan would get along great."

Sarah made Kate raise up her arm and put her hand on Scott’s neck. She stepped back and took the picture. Kate smiled.

" Speaking of the Devil," Scott said after he put on his shades.

Evan now had Storm’s height, and a nice build to him. He traded in his old haircut for a simple ‘fade’.

" So Kurt wasn’t lying," He said.

Scott and Evan did the customary guy handshake. Sarah busied herself cleaning up the mess Kate made.

" I’m guilty," Scott said. " Have me committed to the ‘stick up my ass’ Police."

" Hey no prob," Evan said waving it off.

" OH, yeah, hey Evan meet Sarah," Kate said gesturing to Sarah.

Sarah stopped in mid step. She the meeped and looked at the three.

" Uh, Hi?" She nearly whispered.

Evan put out his hand and smiled, " Evan Daniels."

" Sarah," she said shaking it, forgetting she had black tattoo ink on her hands. " Oh! Sorry!"

Kate smirked at Scott.

" You’re gonna fit in just fine with us," Scott said.

Evan just looked at Scott like he was crazy.

Luckily they had gotten Sarah to ride back with Evan to the mansion. Sparks were already flying. Scott and Kate/Rogue were now looking through a local Hot Topic.

" You think they’ll bond?" Scott asked glancing at the quote shirts.

" Like glue," Kate said looking at a corset. " I just hope ‘Ro won’t think ill of Sarah."

" Why? Cause she’s white?" Scott asked. " I doubt she’s that way. Ororo loves Evan."

She laughed as she held up a shirt. Scott chuckled.

" Shut up brain or I’ll stab you with a q-tip," he read. " I’m still partial to ‘ I’m smiling because they haven’t found the bodies yet’."

" Even better. ‘ Shut up. I’m running out of places to put the bodies.’ That so sounds like Logan," she laughed.

Scott picked out a few shirts and she got the black vinyl corset she had been eyeing.

" You think anyone would care if I stayed at the mansion tonight?" he asked.

" They wouldn’t mind. You’re still one of us," Kate said.

They gathered up their stuff and went to the cashier to pay.

They kept on talking as they walked down the busy mall walkway.

" Who do you don’t want to call you Kate?" Scott asked.

She shrugged, " I can’t think of anyone. I still want to use Rogue as my code name."

He nodded as she glanced at the store windows they passed. The mall had its normal amount of people. Scott wondered just how many were mutants like them.

" Besides with the way they hit it off earlier, I’ll say great things will happen," Kate said.

" Yeah. Maybe he can teach her some pointers about controlling her abilities," he said.

They stopped for something to eat and sat down at an empty table. He took the time to notice what changed in her. Her hair was longer now, down to her waist. The white streak seemed to have gotten bigger. She was still slim but now built from all her practices with Logan. She wore some mirrored red shades that night to hide her green eyes. Her usual ‘Goth’ makeup had changed into soft bronze. Her clothing was a black halter-top and ripped up flare jeans.

" Studying me are you?" She asked smirking.

" Guilty," he said. " Seeing what’s changed in you."

" Probably a lot," she said playing with a French fry. " This still feels strange. Even now."

Scott attempted to stare through her shades to see her eyes. It seemed to be impossible. Maybe that’s how she felt when she used to do the same.. They became quiet again, eating in silence among the rowdy crowds.

" Dumb question," She said.

" Okay," he said looking up at her.

She took off the shades and put them on the table.

" I’m not religious, but I sometimes go to confession," she said. " There’s something about a Catholic Church that makes me feel better."

" We saved Angel in a Catholic Church," Scott said slowly. " How often do you go?"

" When I feel I can’t solve something by myself," she said.

" It’s getting late. We should start heading back to the mansion."

" Yeah," he said getting up.

He picked up her tray and emptied them both in the garbage. He put the empty trays back on the stack. They made their way to the escalator and stepped on. A few teens on the other one watched them pass. Kate smiled at them, Scott gave them a raspberry. She looked at him and sighed.

" What?" he asked.

She put a hand over his shades and closed her eyes. Scott seemed to calm down.

" Trying to remember what color your eyes are," she said removing her hand. " Your memories are kinda locked away right now. At least the ones I got from touching you before."

Scott felt dizzy. He blinked a few times to make it go away.

" Are you okay?" she asked.

" Yeah," he said. " We need to stop by my apartment to get some stuff."

" No problem," she said.

Scott swallowed a few times, he felt like he was going crazy. Finally they reached the end of the ride and they stepped off. They got into his car and drove off. Kate popped in a CD she just got and pushed the forward button.

" Do you like Linkin Park?" She asked.

" Yeah. I still listen to ‘Hybrid Theory’ to help me sleep," he said.

" Help you sleep?" she asked raising an eyebrow.

He shrugged and watched the road. Kate started to play along with her air guitar and they began to lip synch together the lyrics.

" I’ve tried, Like you, to do everything you wanted me to do. This is the last time I fake a smile for the sake of being with you," they sang along. " Why I never walked away. Why I play myself this way. Now I see your testing me is pushing me away."

When they stopped at a red light the car next to them gave them a weird look. Two people with red shades singing Linkin Park. They sped off once the light was green.

Scott’s apartment was tucked away in a busy side of the city. They had to park three blocks away. The walk wasn’t too bad though.

" Is this a bad time to tell you that your room was taken?" she asked.

" By who?" he asked.

" Me," she smirked. " I wanted a room to myself and the Prof let me borrow your room. I’ll give it back to you if you want."

" We can share. It’s not like you’re intending to kill me in my sleep," he said unlocking the door.

They walk in and Kate looked around.

" This looks like Kurt’s room," she joked.

" He was my decorator," Scott said.

She sat down on the couch as Scott went into his bedroom to get a overnight bag put together. She noticed some pictures hanging up and got up to look at them. She tilted her head to the side and smiled softly. A memory suddenly came back to her.

" If you don’t like them we can just burn the negatives later," Scott commented.

He waved his hand in front of her face. Kate blinked and looked at him.

" I didn’t think you kept them," she said gesturing to the pictures.

" I happen to be proud of my first project," he said adjusting his backpack. " You ready?"

" Yeah," She said glancing at a picture.

Her old self just stared back at her through the picture. She sighed and followed him out. On the way out, she noticed just how many pictures he had up. Made her wonder if Scott felt the same way back then as she did. And now, she doesn’t know how she feels about him.

Chapter Three

Kate sighed and stepped into the small closet size room. Someone pulled back the shade and she could make the outline of the Priest on the other side.

" Bless me Father. I haven’t sinned. But I need to get something off my mind," she said.

" Go ahead my child," the man said.

" This guy who was in my life earlier has gotten back into the picture. I loved him to death then. And now I don’t know. He’s different now. But it doesn’t bother me. I know he’s been severely unhappy because I’ve seen the scars. Both inside and out. I’m not sure how I feel about him now," Kate said.

" What do you think is happening?" he asked.

" My heart of hearts is telling me I’m falling all over again," she said.

" Then you know what is right in the end," he said. " I shall see you next time."

She walked out of the confession chamber and did the cross sign over her chest. She walked over to her car and noticed Duncan and Jean pulling in.. She waved at them then drove off. They smiled and waved back. Kate just wanted to relax and crawl back into bed. She remembered that when she left Scott was still sleeping. It’s like he hadn’t slept in years. When she made it back to the mansion she made sure to be quiet coming back into her room. Scott was in a deep sleep, his light snore echoing in the room. She pulled off her coat and took off her shoes. After sliding beneath the covers she gave a happy sigh. She rolled to her side and watched him sleep. His shades were off, which did make her wonder. He used to keep them on all the time.

As she watched, Kate remembered all the things she always wanted to say. She gently moved his bangs out of his eyes and gave a soft smile.

" Things might be going your way now," that nagging voice in her head said. " But something bad is bound to happen. Don’t know when but it will."

She put the bad thought out of her head and curled up closer to him slowly. She missed him more then she’d like to admit. She didn’t want to wake him, or see his face. She didn’t want to see him cringe. But he wasn’t cringing. He moved his arm so she could come closer to him. She put her head on his shoulder and he took her right hand and put it on his chest then covered it with his own hand. He put his other arm around her waist to keep her close. He was a lot warmer then she was and she was happy for that. Her heart felt like it was about to burst.

" I’m not going anywhere you know," she said softly.

She was amazed how soft she made her voice go. His voice was just as soft as hers.

" This is the first time in months I’ve been able to some descent sleep," he said.

Scott felt more peaceful then he could imagine.

" You make it seem like your life was Hell after you left the school," she said.

" It is actually. I felt like I had some purpose with the team. Without it I feel like I’m nothing. I don’t like feeling this way, but it’s to look past," he said. " It’s like I’m always getting dealt the bad hands."

A part of her wanted to say ‘Not anymore. I still Love You.’ But she kept it to herself.

" Everything’s gonna turn out fine in the end," she said.

She sighed and felt him do the same. Soon sleep should take them away..

Sarah glared out at the scenery from her balcony. Several bone spikes had now appeared on her back and arms. She had skipped dinner because of embarrassment. She started to pull out the spikes on her arms and gave a whimper. Evan didn’t have this problem. He could take the spikes back in and everything. She couldn’t. She had managed to get all the spikes from her arms, but she was in too much pain to work on her shoulders. She half jumped half fell off the chair and inched her way to her bed. She blinked and crawled into her bed, careful to stay on her stomach. How did she transform into a monster? What did she do to deserve this?

She heard some noises outside that made her get out of bed. She ran over to her balcony and scanned the dark front yard. When she found no one out there she sighed. She turned and knocked right into Evan. She screamed and jumped onto the railing of the balcony.

" Hey!" She protested.

" I knocked but you didn’t answer," he said.

She glared out back at the view.

" I’m not wanting to talk to anyone right now Evan. I’m not even sure I want to talk to you," she said.

" Okay. I’ll leave you alone then," he said turning to leave.

She put a hand on his shoulder and he looked at it.

" I know this is a stupid question, but what did you think when you found out about my powers?" she asked.

She noticed several spikes started growing quickly up her arm.

" I think it’s great actually. But I wish it was better for you," he said. " I hate the spikes myself, but your spikes don’t get resorbed by your body do they?"

She shook her head.

" Hey, get dressed. We’re gonna go see a movie," he said.

Sarah looked at him like he was crazy again.

" Uh, hello! I look like a pin cushion here!" she protested..

He opened up a hand and one of Kurt’s spare image inducers was there. Sarah looked at it.

" Just be careful not to bump into anyone," he said.

He put the watch around her wrist and she smiled at him. They decided to see a re-showing of " Romeo + Juliet". The line was long but they didn’t mind. Sarah felt odd and looked behind them. Two guys were whispering and pointing at them. Evan looked at her.

" What’s wrong?" he asked.

She leaned close to him and he looked at her.

" They’re talking about us you know," she said.

The two guys came up behind them and Evan looked ahead. Sarah watched him carefully.

" I Love Shakespeare," Sarah said. " Especially this movie."

" Me too. Mr. McCoy gave me the push into liking it. I’m not complaining though," Evan said.

Sarah could feel the two guys staring a hole in them. She glanced at them then realized why they were staring. She wasn’t one to judge someone by appearance. But these two White guys stared at them, especially at her like they were traitors. Like she was a traitor. She felt Evan take her hand as they got the tickets. She glanced at him and smiled, and noticed how her ‘invisible’ spikes started to get resorbed by her body. The two guys followed them to the concession line and stayed behind them. Sarah could tell all her spikes were now gone.

" What would you like?" Evan asked.

" They don’t have milk do they?" She asked.

" Probably not," he asked. " What’s your second choice?"

" A coke and some Mounds," she said. " Please."

Evan told the concession worker what they wanted and one of the guys tapped Sarah’s shoulder.

" What? White boys aren’t good enough for you?" he asked.

Sarah watched the two guys with no amusement. Evan glanced at them and gave Sarah her coke and Mounds bar.

" Look, it’s none of your business boys. Now go and play with your G.I Joes somewhere else," she said.

They walked off and glanced back to see them following yet again.

" Man aren’t they gonna listen?" Evan growled. " I am so not in the mood for a fight."

Sarah felt an idea begin, " Follow my lead."

" What?" He asked.

She took in a deep breath and kissed him. It took Evan totally by surprise, but he followed her lead. He opened his eyes for a second and noticed the two guys walked into another part of the hallway. He pulled back and shook his head.

" Some plan," he said.

She smirked, " We’re gonna miss the movie. We need to go sit down."

" In a minute," he said leaning down to kiss her again.

Kate sat with Scott, Kurt and Kitty in the common room. They were watching some crazy movie.

" You think Evan and Sarah hit it off?" Kitty asked.

" I bet they did," Kurt said. " You should of heard how Evan talked about her."

Scott smirked, " It was Kate’s idea you know."

" How great!" Kitty said leaning her head on Kurt’s shoulder. " I bet they’re off watching some cool Shakespeare movie. We know how much he loves Shakespeare."

Kate sighed and put a blanket around her and Scott.

" It’s great to see how great everything turns out," he said.