Work Text:
Interrupted Rendezvous
Disclaimer: All characters mentioned in this story are the property of Marvel Comics. This fan fiction is a noncommercial work intended for entertainment purposes only. The story aims to entertain fellow RoLo fans and is not intended to infringe upon any copyrights.
Logan stood outside the X-Mansion, the cool night air mingling with the smoke from his cigar. He was dressed in his favorite worn blue jeans, boots, and a fitted black Led Zeppelin t-shirt that hugged his muscular frame. It was around 10 PM, and he kept glancing up at Ororo's balcony, his eyes filled with a mixture of longing and frustration.
It was mid-September, and the sprawling lawn around the mansion was a lush green, dotted with fallen leaves that hinted at the approaching autumn. The trees bordering the yard swayed gently in the breeze, their branches creating a soothing rustle that contrasted with Logan's growing impatience. The soft glow from the mansion's lights cast long shadows across the yard, adding a touch of mystery to the evening.
For years, Logan and Ororo had been best friends, dedicated teammates, and more often than not, secret lovers. Their relationship was a no-strings-attached arrangement—a mutual decision to keep things uncomplicated. But recently, Logan found himself growing less satisfied with the status quo. He was tired of keeping their relationship a secret and craved something more—he damn well wanted strings attached. The only problem was, he wasn’t sure if Ororo felt the same way.
None of their teammates knew about their clandestine affair. They had become experts at hiding their feelings, stealing moments when no one was looking. Logan's heart ached with the memories of those fleeting touches and stolen kisses. He wanted more than just secret trysts. He wanted the world to know that she was his, and he was hers.
The frustration gnawed at Logan as he stood there, cigar smoke curling into the night sky. Serving on different X-teams had kept them apart for the past three months, and the separation was driving him mad. But tonight, their prolonged separation finally came to an end. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, they were both home at the same time. He waited outside the mansion, hoping the other team members would soon retire for the night so he could sneak up to her room and spend the rest of the night worshipping her body.
Earlier in the evening, dinner had been a tantalizing game of flirtation and teasing. Ororo sat next to Logan, dressed in a sleek, off-the-shoulder cream-colored dress that hugged her curves. Her hair was pulled up in an elegant twist, leaving her graceful neck exposed. Throughout the meal, Logan kept his arm draped over the back of her chair, his fingers subtly caressing her neck and shoulders without the others noticing. Each touch sent a shiver down her spine, a silent promise of the night to come.
The other X-Men were seated around the table, each dressed in a mix of casual and semi-formal attire. Charles wore a tweed blazer and a crisp white shirt and dark slacks. Jean and Scott were the picture of a coordinated couple, with Jean in a flowing green dress and Scott in a matching green tie with a white shirt and gray slacks. Warren, with his always impeccable style, wore a tailored suit with no tie.
Hank opted for a more relaxed look, with a sweater vest over a button-down shirt and dark slacks, while Betsy turned heads in a sleek, black dress. Remy and Rogue sat close together, Remy in a button-down shirt with the top three buttons open and black slacks, and Rogue in a fitted pencil skirt and corset. Kurt's blue fur contrasted with his simple white shirt and navy pants, and Bishop' was casually dressed in khaki pants and light purple polo shirt.
Kitty and Piotr were a charming pair, with Kitty in a floral sundress and Piotr in a casual shirt and slacks that struggled to contain his muscular frame. Bobby's playful personality was mirrored in his South Park t-shirt and jeans, while Angelica's fiery spirit shone through her bright red top and leather black pants. Theresa Cassidy, the newest member on the team, was dressed in a sequined top under a sleek blazer, paired with dark jeans.
Throughout dinner, Logan found himself in a constant state of arousal being so close to Ororo yet, unable to act upon his need and desire. Even if Ororo were miles away, Logan knew he could track her effortlessly, guided by his irresistible addiction to her natural scent of wildflowers and rain. However, being right next to her and also catching the scent of her desire was driving him absolutely crazy. It became increasingly impossible for Logan to concentrate when Ororo nonchalantly slipped off her strappy high heels. The subtle sensation of her foot gliding up and down his calf sent shivers through his body. His sharp intake of breath betrayed his rising tension, prompting Ororo to 'innocently' let her hand drift to his thigh, as if she were oblivious to the torment she was causing.
Usually, Logan relished these teasing preludes between him and Ororo before taking her to bed, showing her exactly how her actions affected him. But after three months of celibacy, his self-control was shot. Leaning over, he growled in her ear, 'Darlin', keep this up, and we'll give the team a show right here on this table. Ororo’s blue eyes had gone wide and her hand paused its exploration of his thigh under the table. She turned to stare in his gray eyes noticing how dark and animalistic they had become. Suddenly realizing just how aroused he was, Ororo obediently nodded and behaved herself for the rest of the dinner.
When everyone moved to the den to watch a movie, Ororo had once again sat beside him. Halfway through the film, she leaned over and whispered in his ear, "I'll be waiting for you in my loft." She left soon after, and Logan had been impatiently waiting ever since for the rest of the team to retire.
The last few residents up were Remy, Rogue, Bobby, and Kitty causing what little patience Logan had left to run out. He stepped outside to smoke his cigar, but his thoughts were only on Ororo. Using his enhanced senses, he could hear the remaining group deeply engrossed in the movie they were watching. With a final glance towards the den, he decided he was done with waiting. He extinguished his cigar and effortlessly scaled the side of the school to Ororo's balcony, a climb he had perfected over the years.
Logan's enhanced senses allowed him to see her lying in bed, dressed in his favorite white nightie. The scent of jasmine and her desire filled the air, wrapping around him like a warm embrace. His heart pounded in his chest, a mix of anticipation and longing. It had been too long since he had held her in his arms, and the sight of her now, so effortlessly beautiful and waiting and wanting him, made the beast inside him claw to be released.
For a moment, he just stood there, taking in the sight of her. The way her long white hair cascaded down her back, the soft glow of the moonlight highlighting her curves. He felt a surge of emotion, a deep yearning that went beyond physical desire. He wanted to hold her, to tell her how much she meant to him, to make her understand that he was tired of hiding their love and how much he wanted to be in a committed relationship with her.
"It's about time," Ororo said, her voice a soft, melodic tone that sent a surge of arousal through him. She rose from the bed with a grace that was uniquely hers, her eyes locking onto his with desire. "I was beginning to think you weren't coming."
Logan stepped forward into the room, his eyes never leaving hers. "Sweetheart, not even the entire Shi’ar Empire could keep me away from you," he said, his voice rough with pent-up lust. "Three months is too damn long."
She smiled, a slow, knowing smile that made his pants even more uncomfortable than they already were. "Then come here, Wolverine" she said, holding out her hand. "Show me how much you missed me."
As Logan stalked purposefully into Ororo's loft, the moonlight streaming through the balcony cast a silver halo around him. His well-worn jeans clung to his muscular legs, hinting at the raw strength beneath. His t-shirt, snug and slightly stretched, outlined every contour of his chiseled chest and biceps, making it impossible for Ororo to look away. His ruggedly handsome face, framed by his wild hair, exuded an alpha male confidence that was both intimidating and irresistibly attractive. The scent of his cigar, mixed with a hint of whiskey and the crisp smell of autumn, filled the room, adding to his presence. His gray eyes, intense and piercing, darkened with desire, reflecting the beast within him that was summoned by her presence.
Ororo's heart raced, butterflies fluttering in her stomach as she took in the sight of him. Her breath came in rapid, shallow gasps, knowing that Logan could acutely sense her arousal with his enhanced senses. The months apart had only heightened their longing, and now, standing so close, the tension between them was almost unbearable.
Just as Logan pulled Ororo into his strong arms and lowered his head to kiss her, he suddenly stopped and began to growl. Ororo opened her eyes in alarm. "What is it, Logan?" She strained to hear what his enhanced senses had detected. There, she could barely make out the sounds of footsteps coming up the stairs toward her loft. The two lovers paused, listening to see if the intruders would go away.
"Remy, Ah reckon Ororo's probably already asleep," Rogue drawled quietly outside Ororo’s room.
"Non, chère. Stormy will tell you herself. If they made a movie 'bout us, Taylor Kitsch should play Remy," Remy insisted, leaning down to pick the lock.
“You’re crazy,” Bobby said. “Channing Tatum would so play you.”
Logan's growl deepened as he dropped Ororo onto the bed and started stomping toward her bedroom door. Ororo quickly got to her feet and rushed to him, grabbing his arm to stop him from yanking the door open and confronting the group. "Logan, please," she said, her voice calm but firm. "Allow me to handle this. I'll find out what they want and send them away. Just hide out on the balcony for a moment. Let me take care of everything."
Logan suddenly halted, causing Ororo to bump into him. He reached out to steady her. "Alright, 'Ro, but I swear, if Remy and the rest of the Scooby-Doo gang don't clear out, I'm tossing them out on their asses."
Ororo leaned up and gave him a quick kiss. Logan immediately tried to deepen it, but Ororo pulled away. “Five minutes,” she promised him, shooing him to hide on her balcony. Logan reluctantly stepped outside, casting one last longing glance at her before disappearing behind the curtains.
Taking a deep breath to compose herself, Ororo approached the door. She snatched it open, causing Remy, who had been picking the lock, to lose his balance and fall forward at her feet. She glared down at him, her eyes stormy. “Remy LeBeau, what in the world do you think you’re doing?” A clap of thunder emphasized her impatience.
Logan growled softly from the balcony, his patience wearing thin. He could sense Ororo's frustration rising to match his own.
Remy turned his gaze toward the balcony. "Chere, are you okay?" he asked, a prickling unease washing over him as he felt the unsettling sensation of being watched. He couldn’t shake the eerie feeling, and if he didn’t know better, he’d swear he heard a low growl mingling with the rumble of thunder.
“Remy, how on earth could I be okay with all of you making enough noise to wake the dead?" Ororo replied, her irritation evident as she tried to draw Remy's attention away from the balcony and back to her.
“Told ya,” Rogue added with a smirk.
“Now what is so important that it couldn’t wait until morning?” Ororo crossed her arms, her voice calm but edged with annoyance.
"Let me just say," Bobby butted in before Remy could speak, "you in that outfit should be classified as a lethal weapon." He gave an appreciative whistle.
Knowing that Logan was probably two seconds from lunging at Bobby, Ororo quickly walked over and grabbed the matching robe to her outfit. However, with Ororo no longer blocking the door, Remy and Bobby followed her in, with Rogue and Kitty trailing behind, trying not to laugh.
Remy threw himself onto Ororo’s bed, sprawling out as if he owned the place. Bobby and Rogue each took a seat in the two chairs in the room, while Kitty plopped down on the rug by the fireplace, her legs crossed comfortably.
Ororo’s bedroom was a serene sanctuary, filled with soft moonlight and the gentle scent of jasmine. The walls were adorned with beautiful tapestries and framed landscapes. A plush, king-sized bed with an intricately carved headboard dominated the room, flanked by elegant nightstands. Several lush plants added a touch of nature, thriving under the natural light streaming from a large skylight. A cozy fireplace added warmth, and a large balcony offered a breathtaking view of the night sky.
“Alright, since we’re here,” Kitty began, her eyes twinkling, “who do you all think should play us in a movie?”
Ororo turned on the light and sat on her bed, leaning back against the headboard with a deep sigh. The interruption was unwelcome, but she knew she had to stay composed to avoid arousing suspicion among the others. Part of her toyed with the idea of just asking everyone to leave so she and Logan could spend the rest of the night fulfilling all their sensual and erotic desires. However, she quickly dismissed the thought. She wanted Logan to desire a change in their relationship status as much as she did, without feeling pressured by her. And so until they both agreed to go public with their relationship, Ororo would remain silent.
“Ah still think Tatum has the swagger for Remy,” Rogue chimed in, grinning at the Cajun.
“Non, you all have no imagination,” Remy retorted. “Kitsch is perfect.”
“I still think we’re all missing the point here,” Bobby said, leaning back in his chair. “Who cares who plays Gambit when clearly the star should be whoever plays Ice-Man?”
Everyone chuckled, except for Ororo. She locked eyes with Logan, who was hidden from the others' view. Realizing the group wasn't planning to leave anytime soon, Logan silently dropped from the balcony and headed toward the Danger Room. He muttered to himself about obliterating everything in sight to help with his pent-up frustration.
The next morning, Ororo entered the kitchen, dressed in casual slacks and a sleeveless top that showcased her toned arms. The fatigue from the night before weighed heavily on her, both physically and emotionally. She was exhausted from the impromptu slumber party in her room and frustrated that she hadn’t had the chance to show Logan just how much she had missed and wanted him.
The previous night had been a whirlwind of emotions for Ororo. She had been so excited to finally be back with Logan after the grueling pace of the past three months. The anticipation of spending the night reacquainting herself with his magnificent body had filled her with a sense of longing and excitement. The physical aspect of their relationship was nothing short of spectacular. Logan was an amazing lover, attentive and sensual, making her feel cherished and desired. Yet, despite the passion and connection they shared, Ororo felt a void. The secrecy and the no-strings-attached arrangement were beginning to wear on her. Sure, she had suggested it initially, thinking it was what Logan wanted. But as time passed, she realized she wanted and needed more. She yearned for a deeper connection, one where they could openly declare their love for each other without any reservations. She had rehearsed the conversation in her mind countless times, but that plan had been thwarted the moment Remy and the others barged in, turning her perfectly planned evening into chaos.
Remy, Rogue, Kitty, and Bobby hadn't left until nearly 4 a.m., leaving Ororo restless and frustrated. She was eager to find Logan and sneak away with him to the lake to tell him that as amazing as they were in bed together, what really mattered was the strong foundation of love, trust and respect they had built over the years.
As she entered the kitchen, the mouthwatering aroma of breakfast hit her senses. Logan was at the stove, cooking an impressive spread of bacon, sausage, eggs, hashbrowns, and French toast. Scott and Jean were chatting as they made coffee, tea, and freshly squeezed orange juice, their laughter brightening the room. Kurt, Hank, and Bishop were deep in a lively discussion, their animated gestures punctuating their points. Warren and Betsy walked in next, looking slightly disheveled but undeniably happy, clearly having spent the night together. Theresa and Angelica followed, engrossed in plans for a trip to the mall after breakfast.
Logan had sensed Ororo's approach long before she entered the kitchen, her unique scent of morning rain, wildflowers, and a hint of desire reaching him first. As she approached him at the stove, his eyes darkened, undressing her with his gaze and taking in every detail of her appearance. His nose flared slightly, savoring her scent that always drove him wild. He shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts, and then focused on fixing a plate of food.
Handing the plate to her, Logan spoke in a low, gravelly voice that made Ororo bite her bottom lip to suppress a moan. "Hey, darlin'. Can you take this to Chuck for me?"
"Of course," Ororo replied, reaching for the plate. As she did, Logan's fingers lingered, caressing her hand and causing her heart to race. "I'm sorry about last night," she whispered.
"It's okay, babe," Logan replied with a dark chuckle. "Though the Danger Room might not ever be the same." Leaning in close, he added, "I've got a plan. Just go along with what I'm about to do. One way or another, I'm getting ya outta those clothes and into my arms."
With a sensual smile that she reserved only for Logan, Ororo took the plate of food to the Professor's study, where Charles was on the phone with Tony Stark. As she entered, Charles looked up, momentarily pausing his conversation. He mouthed a silent "thank you" to Ororo before continuing his discussion. Ororo smiled and quietly closed the door behind her.
As Ororo returned to the kitchen, she found Rogue, Kitty, and Bobby shuffling in, still bleary-eyed and waking up. Remy followed the trio, looking surprisingly well-rested despite the late hour they had all turned in. He moved with an easy energy, his eyes sparkling with mischief. Ororo busied herself by pouring a cup of coffee for Logan and a glass of orange juice for herself. Remy paused to give her a quick peck on the cheek as she took a seat at the kitchen table.
"Bonjour, Stormy!" he greeted, his Cajun accent thick and playful.
Ororo raised an eyebrow and smiled. "Good morning, Remy. And I told you, do not call me that."
Remy grinned, his charm on full display. "Ah, but chère, it just fits you too well. Can't help m'self."
The smell of fresh coffee and breakfast filled the air, mingling with the soft hum of morning chatter. Everyone moved around the kitchen, fixing their plates and pouring cups of steaming coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice. Logan walked over to where Ororo was sitting, balancing two plates of food in his hands. He sat down next to her, handing her one of the plates he had prepared, then settled in with his own. The kitchen buzzed with activity and laughter, a lively symphony of clinking dishes, cheerful voices, and the occasional burst of laughter. It felt warm and chaotic, a normal day at 1407 Graymalkin Lane.
“So, what time do you want to leave?" Logan asked loudly, ensuring that some of the others heard him over the chatter.
Ororo, remembering his earlier instructions, replied, "Whenever you are ready, I will be ready as well."
Scott turned to Logan, curiosity piqued. "Where are you two off to?"
Logan shrugged nonchalantly trying to downplay the camping trip as much as possible. "Promised Ororo a camping trip to Canada."
"Really?" Scott said, mulling it over as he quietly went back to his breakfast.
Thirty minutes later, as Logan stood to leave, he told Ororo he would meet her in the garage in 20 minutes. Scott, suddenly inspired, announced, "Actually, Logan, I think a camping trip is just the right training exercise the rest of the team needs as well."
Logan’s jaw dropped in disbelief. "Training exercise? You're kidding me, right?" he growled, not bothering to hide his irritation.
Scott grinned, clearly pleased with his idea. "Just think, this will push us to survive in nature without our powers. Get our hands dirty, go back to basics." The more Scott talked, the more excited he became. "Plus, it’ll be a great team-building opportunity."
Scott paused as some of the others around the kitchen looked at him in horror at the thought of spending the week roughing it in the wild with Logan in charge. "Of course, we can't all go. We need a reserve team here at the school in case of an emergency..." He continued, ignoring the rest of the team's reactions.
"Remy volunteers to stay back, mon ami," Remy interjected quickly.
But Scott continued, undeterred. "Remy, you're definitely going on.” He paused as he looked around the room at his teammates. “Now let me confirm with the Professor, but I believe it will be fine for Hank, Bishop, Warren, Betsy, Angelica, and Piotr to stay here."
Warren and Betsy high-fived each other, while Remy and Bobby pouted at the prospect of camping.
“Alright team, let's get organized,” Scott commanded, his voice steady and authoritative. “Pack the essentials: tents, sleeping bags, and plenty of bottled water. We need to be prepared for anything.” Feeling a surge of satisfaction, Scott relished being back in his element, giving orders and ensuring everything was in perfect order.
"Thanks, Logan," Bobby grumbled as he stood to leave and go pack. "I can’t wait to see you wrestle a bear."
Remy rolled his eyes, following Bobby out. "Great. Just what I wanted. A nature documentary starring Wolverine being narrated by Cyclops."
Rogue chuckled. "Ah can’t wait to see who freaks out first over a raccoon."
"Probably you, Rogue," Kitty teased.
"Hey, Ah grew up in Mississippi. Ah can handle critters. It’s Bobby you gotta worry about," Rogue shot back, grinning as she and Kitty walked out together.
As Scott continued to outline the plans, Ororo reached under the table and grabbed Logan’s hand to prevent him from lunging at Scott. She intertwined her fingers with Logan’s to keep him calm as their carefully plotted plan for alone time went up in smoke. Scott, oblivious to the fact that his plan was disrupting Logan and Ororo's week, beamed as he efficiently delegated the packing duties for the trip.
“Jean, make sure we have enough first aid supplies,” Scott said, turning to his wife.
Jean nodded, smiling as she walked out of the kitchen beside her husband. “Got it, Scott. And don’t worry, I’ll make sure everyone stays in one piece.”
“This is going to be wunderbar! I can't remember the last time we had a team camping trip,” Kurt exclaimed with enthusiasm. “I'll fetch the tents!” With a joyful grin, Kurt bamfed out of the room in a puff of smoke.
Ororo waited until everyone else left the kitchen before leaning over and giving Logan a quick peck on the lips before heading off to go pack, feeling defeated that her alone time with Logan was once again snatched away.
Logan, for his part, continue to sit as if he was in a daze before allowing his head to fall face down to the table. "Seriously, God? You’ve gotta be kidding me," he muttered in disbelief.
Three hours later, an extremely moody Logan sat behind the wheel of one of the school's black SUVs, driving north towards Canada. He wore a rugged flannel shirt with the sleeves rolled up over a simple white t-shirt, paired with sturdy, worn-in jeans and heavy-duty hiking boots.
In the passenger seat, Ororo exuded an effortless grace in a fitted long-sleeve top in a deep teal that highlighted her striking presence and complemented her complexion beautifully. She paired it with comfortable, flexible charcoal gray cargo pants and sturdy yet refined black hiking boots with subtle silver details. A silver headband pushed her white mane back from her face.
Remy, Rogue, and Bobby occupied the back seat. Remy sported a fitted, long-sleeve Henley shirt in a dark burgundy, paired with comfortable jeans and fingerless gloves. His look was completed with brown leather boots. Rogue opted for a comfortable and layered look with a plaid button-up shirt over a tank top, paired with skinny jeans and combat boots. Her signature white streak in her hair stood out against a knitted beanie. Bobby wore a light blue hoodie over a thermal shirt, paired with comfortable jeans, a puffer vest, and sturdy sneakers.
In the SUV behind them, Scott was driving with Jean in the passenger seat and Kurt, Kitty, and Theresa in the backseat. Scott chose a practical and understated look with a navy-blue fleece pullover, khaki hiking pants, and hiking boots. Instead of his combat visor, he wore sunglasses. Jean wore a cozy, fitted sweater in a rich autumn burnt orange, with stretchy black leggings for comfort and ankle-high hiking boots. Kitty opted for a layered look with a zip-up hoodie over a long-sleeve top, paired with athletic leggings and comfortable trail shoes. Theresa chose a fitted long-sleeve turtleneck in deep green, paired with black hiking pants. Finally, Kurt wore a dark long-sleeve thermal shirt paired with lightweight cargo pants and practical hiking boots.
"Logan, I like classic rock as much as the next homme, but shouldn't we take a vote on the music?" Remy complained from the backseat.
"Ah vote Taylor Swift!" Rogue chimed in enthusiastically, her Southern drawl unmistakable.
"Kill me now," Bobby groaned, rolling his eyes.
"Why you gotta be hatin' on Taylor Swift?" Rogue demanded, turning to face Bobby with a challenging glare.
"Because no one wants to hear about her latest break-up," Bobby declared with a smirk. "You're as bad as Angelica."
The bickering was relentless. Logan gripped the steering wheel tighter, his knuckles white as he tried to tune out the chaos in the backseat. "If Scooter drives any slower, I swear I'll ditch him," he growled under his breath, his patience wearing thin.
"Logan, we've been over this," Ororo said calmly, her voice like a soothing balm. She reached over and squeezed his hand, her touch grounding him. "We can't just leave them behind."
"Yeah, we can," Logan muttered, though he knew he wouldn't go against Ororo's wishes. "Driving like a little old lady back there..."
In the backseat, the argument over music reached a fever pitch.
"How 'bout some jazz?" Remy suggested, his tone hopeful.
"No way!" Bobby shot back. "Jazz makes me sleepy."
"It's soothing, you need to chill out," Remy countered.
“You seriously just told me of all people to ‘chill out’?” Bobby responded, holding up his right hand as it iced over.
"Just put on Taylor Swift," Rogue insisted stubbornly.
"No!" Remy and Bobby declared in unison.
Logan grumbled under his breath, "Remind me how we ended up with the Three Stooges?" He glanced over at Ororo, who gave him a sympathetic smile. They both knew this trip was turning into another missed opportunity of alone time.
"Do not worry," Ororo assured him softly, her voice like a gentle breeze. "We will find a moment to slip away from the others tonight. I promise."
"We better," Logan growled as he cranked up the radio, AC/DC's "Back in Black" blasting through the speakers to drown out the argument in the back. “Otherwise, I’m going to kick Scott’s ass for cockblocking me.”
Two hours into the drive, Bobby squirmed in his seat. "I need to go to the bathroom," he whined.
"You should have gone before we left the school," Logan snapped, eyes fixed on the road ahead.
"I did, but I need to go again," Bobby protested, his discomfort evident.
"Man up and hold it," Logan ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument.
“Ah read an article ah while back and it said that holding your pee ain’t good for ya,” Rogue added.
"Man, I'm gonna burst a kidney here," Bobby groaned, squirming in his seat.
"I ain't stoppin'..." Logan began, his voice a low growl.
Just then, Ororo's phone rang, cutting through the argument. She answered it with her usual poise. "Hello, Scott. Is everything alright?"
"Hey, Ororo," Scott's voice came through clearly over the speaker. "We need to stop. Kurt needs to go to the bathroom." Scott sounded almost as annoyed as Logan.
Logan cursed under his breath, shaking his head in disbelief as he took the next exit. "You and Kurt must have bladders the size of peanuts," he grumbled. "You better make it quick, otherwise I’m leaving without you." he growled.
As they pulled up to a truck stop, Scott's car followed closely behind the them. Everyone quickly hopped out of the vehicles happy for the short break. Scott, ever the drill sergeant, called out, "You have ten minutes! We need to be back on the road if we're going to make it to the campsite on time."
Jean wrapped her arm around Scott, pulling him towards the truck stop. "Honey, you do realize there isn’t a set time we have to be there," she said, her tone gentle but amused.
"But Jean, I made a schedule before we left the school, and we're already behind because Remy took so long packing," Scott complained, his voice edged with frustration.
Remy, who was already ahead with the others, didn't even bother to turn around. "I know I make it look effortless, but dis sexiness takes work," he teased, his Cajun accent adding a playful lilt to his words.
Logan draped a casual arm around Ororo's shoulders as they brought up the rear of the group. "You know, I can get a lot done in ten minutes," Logan teased, his voice low and playful as he dropped his hand to playfully swat her butt.
Ororo arched an eyebrow and smiled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "James Logan Howlett, I never thought I'd see the day you'd settle for a quickie."
"Desperate times, darlin'. Desperate times," Logan laughed, his grin wide and roguish.
As they entered the store, Logan's hand lingered on Ororo's lower back, guiding her through the aisles. "So, what do you think, darlin'? Snacks? Drinks? Or maybe we ditch the rest of 'em and head over to the nearest hotel?" he suggested, his tone low and suggestive.
Ororo shook her head, a playful smile on her lips. "As much as I'd love to whisk you away for some wickedly delightful alone time, we do have a schedule to keep, remember?"
Logan sighed dramatically. "Yeah, yeah. Scott and his damn schedule. But that doesn't mean we can't have a little fun."
Ororo laughed, her voice as light and musical as a gentle breeze. "Oh, believe me, we'll have plenty of fun once we’re alone in our tent. Let's gather what we need and head back to the SUV before Scott sends out a search party."
As they made their way to the counter, Kitty and Theresa approached them with amused expressions. "You two are in for it," Kitty said, her tone wry. "Rogue is pissed at Remy because she caught him flirting with one of the girls at the counter."
Logan glanced over at Rogue and Remy, who were now standing outside the store, locked in a heated argument. "Great," he muttered, rolling his eyes. "Just what we need. Five more hours of being stuck in a car with Rogue bitching at Remy."
His gaze then shifted to the three girls at the counter. They all appeared to be in their mid to late-20s, with dirty blond hair cascading in loose waves. One had striking green eyes and a mischievous smile, another wore a fitted tank top that clearly showed she wasn’t wearing a bra, and the third had a delicate nose ring and a tattoo on her lower back that was visible every time she bent over. "Yeah, they're all hot. Bet the Swamprat was hittin' on the one with the tramp stamp..." Logan's voice trailed off as Ororo arched her eyebrow at his comment.
"So you think they're hot?" Ororo asked, a slight irritation in her voice that only Logan would notice.
Realizing that the next few moments would determine if he was sharing a tent with 'Ro or Remy at the campsite, Logan quickly scrambled to recover. "Look, for the Swamprat, I'm sure he thought so. The Cajun'd flirt with anything in a skirt. But they ain't my type," he finished, glancing at the three X-women who were now giving him curious looks. Kitty and Theresa seemed even more amused, while Ororo pursed her lips, clearly debating whether to be irritated with him or not.
"Maybe we should just pay and hit the road. Scott did say we only had ten minutes," Theresa suggested, her Irish accent clear. "Though, good luck getting Remy and Rogue back in the car anytime soon by the looks of it."
Nearly seven hours later, both vehicles from Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters pulled into the campsite. However, the occupants of each vehicle had shifted significantly.
The first vehicle was still driven by Logan, his knuckles white on the steering wheel, a scowl permanently etched on his face. Scott now sat in the passenger seat next to him, flipping through his tattered itinerary with a furrowed brow, muttering about the disruption to his meticulously planned schedule. In the back, Remy, Bobby, and Kurt were crammed together, their expressions a blend of annoyance and exhaustion.
The atmosphere in the car was thick with tension. Logan was seething at Remy, his temper barely contained, while Scott's irritation with Remy was evident in his huffed sighs and glares. Bobby, ever the optimist, had tried to lighten the mood with a joke, but the attempt had been met with a unified roar of "Shut up, Bobby!" from Logan and Scott. Kurt, always the peacemaker, had suggested playing a game to pass the time, but his efforts were met with indifference. Only Bobby participated, his enthusiasm met with silence.
Most of the drive had been spent in awkward silence, punctuated only by the occasional growl from Logan as he muttered curses under his breath, or Scott turning around to glare daggers at Remy. The tension was palpable, making the long journey feel even longer.
The second vehicle was now driven by Ororo, her hands steady on the wheel. Jean sat in the passenger seat, her gaze shifting between the road and the backseat, where Rogue was nestled with Kitty and Theresa. Unlike the tense and brooding atmosphere in the men's car, the women's car was filled with joy and laughter. The women had bonded over tales of cheating men, exchanging stories and hearty laughs. They had spent the hours belting out songs from the soundtracks of Bridget Jones's Diary, Grease, Dirty Dancing and Love Actually. Their voices blended harmoniously, echoing with camaraderie and shared amusement. The impromptu karaoke sessions were punctuated with playful banter and sisterly support.
Back at the truck stop, it had taken Ororo and Jean over an hour to convince Rogue to get back in the vehicle, on the condition that she wouldn’t have to get within ten feet of that "backstabbin’, cheatin’ Swamprat." But once Rogue was back in the car, the mood lifted considerably.
By that time, Logan was about ready to ram his own head into a brick wall, and Scott was so frustrated that he nearly tore up his detailed schedule. To keep the peace, Kurt had suggested splitting into “a car for ze ladies and a car for ze gents. The ladies had immediately jumped at the idea.
When Logan and Scott tried to object, Ororo had remarked that "men often have a wandering eye and believe anything in a skimpy outfit is ‘hot,’" which Logan took to mean that Ororo had definitely decided to be irritated by his earlier comment. He realized his chances of bunking with her had dropped significantly. Jean, for her part, had reminded Scott about his psychic affair with Emma, leaving Scott stuttering as Jean slammed the car door in his face as she got in the car with the other ladies.
Now, here they were finally at the campsite, the vehicles coming to a halt amidst the lofty pines and the smell of earth and pine filling the air. Logan could tell by the scents wafting from the women's car that he wouldn’t be sliding into Ororo’s sleeping bag any time soon. He growled, his earlier frustration simmering just beneath the surface.
As the group emerged from the vehicles, Scott was quick to try to regain control. "Okay, everyone. I know we've had a rough start," Scott began, his tone strained as he cut his eyes at Remy, "but that doesn’t mean we can’t turn this training exercise around. Now, I have the sleeping arrangements here and—"
"Actually, Scott," Ororo interrupted smoothly, stepping forward with an air of authority, "we discussed the sleeping arrangements in our car and we've made some changes."
"Major changes," Jean added, her voice firm and final as she stood beside Ororo.
Logan, standing off to the side, tried to decide who he should gut first—Scott for inviting half of the X-Men on what was supposed to be his romantic trip with Ororo, or Remy for causing all the trouble with Rogue which led to ‘Ro being pissed at him. He figured both were equally deserving of his wrath.
"Jean and I will be sharing a tent," Ororo continued, her tone leaving no room for argument, "Kitty, Theresa, and Rogue will share another. The rest of you can sort out your own arrangements."
Scott looked flustered, the neatly written itinerary in his hand crumpling slightly. "But the schedule—"
"Scott, the schedule can wait," Jean snapped, giving him a look that silenced his protests.
Remy, leaning against the SUV with his trademark smirk, shrugged. "Looks like we be sharin' a tent, mon ami," he said to Logan, who shot him a murderous glare in return.
Bobby, ever the peacemaker, attempted a joke to lighten the mood. "Well, this is going to be one cozy camping trip," he quipped, earning simultaneous glares from Logan and Scott.
Kurt, sensing the brewing tension, chimed in with his usual cheer. "Come on, friends. Let's get our camp set up and maybe we can all relax a bit, ja?"
The group awkwardly dispersed to set up their tents, Logan grumbling under his breath as he realized his chances of bunking with Ororo had now dropped to zero. Meanwhile, the women continued their chatter and laughter, the camaraderie from their road trip still strong.
Around 3:00 AM, Logan found himself sitting alone by the campfire, the flickering flames casting dancing shadows on his rugged face. He took a deep drag from his cigar, the smoke curling up into the night sky like ethereal tendrils reaching for the stars. Even with his healing factor, he was exhausted. Nearly 96 hours with no sleep was beginning to catch up to him, but he couldn’t rest. Sure, he was horny as all get out for ‘Ro, and he wanted 'Ro more than he wanted his next breath. But it wasn’t his hormones keeping him awake. It was the fact that 'Ro was obviously pissed at him for his earlier comment.
Didn’t she realize that she was the center of his universe? That her laughter was the melody that played on repeat in his heart? He had never been one for grand declarations, but every moment with her, every shared smile, every touch, had woven itself into the very fabric of his soul. She meant everything to him, and he was hopelessly in love with her.
He had never told her, never found the words to convey the depth of his feelings. But every time he looked into her eyes, he hoped she could see the truth—how deeply he loved her, how his soul ached to be with her. He could never imagine being with anyone else; no other woman could ever compare. She wasn't just the most beautiful woman he had ever seen; she was his goddess, and he was perfectly content to spend the rest of his life worshipping her.
Logan's thoughts were interrupted by the faint sounds of Kitty slipping from her sleeping bag. His keen hearing picked up the soft rustle of her movements inside the tent. Moments later, he heard the faint sound of the tent flap opening and caught the distinct scent of Kitty's familiar perfume mingling with the night air. As she emerged, her hair tousled and her eyes bleary, she spotted him by the fire. A big smile spread across her face as she made her way over.
"Hey, kid," Logan greeted her, his voice gruff but affectionate. "What are you doing up so late?"
Kitty laughed softly as she plopped down on a log beside Logan, her breath visible in the cool night air. "Between Rogue's snoring and Theresa's snoring, it's like trying to sleep next to a freight train," she said, shaking her head in amusement.
Logan chuckled, the sound a deep rumble in his chest, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. "Sounds like a symphony of chainsaws," he quipped, exhaling a plume of smoke from his cigar. "So, any idea how long you girls plan on being mad at us boys?"
Kitty grinned, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Depends on how much groveling you guys are willing to do. But honestly, Logan, it was more about Rogue and Remy than the rest of you. We're just enjoying the drama while it lasts."
Logan smirked, shaking his head. "Yeah, figures. Drama's always front and center with this crew."
Kitty rolled her eyes playfully. "Tell me about it. It’s like living in a soap opera at the school. But if things go the way they usually do, Scott will be back in Jean’s good graces by tomorrow. Remy, though, is going to have to grovel a lot harder. Rogue's really going to make him sweat. And you," she added, fixing Logan with a knowing look, "better figure out how to make it up to Ororo for calling those girls at the truck stop 'hot'."
Kitty ignored the surprised look that flashed across Logan's face at her comment about him and Ororo. "I'm just glad Piotr isn't here. I wouldn’t want to have to be mad at him too,” she finished stifling a yawn.
Logan was silent as he took another slow, contemplative puff of his cigar. The smoke rose in lazy spirals into the starlit sky. "Look, Kitty, about me and 'Ro..."
Kitty's expression turned thoughtful as she gazed into the crackling fire. "You know, if Rogue truly loves Remy and wants to be with him, she's going to have to accept that flirting is like breathing to him. It's instinctive. I don't think he'd ever cheat on her, and deep down, I believe Rogue knows that too. But no matter how strong she is, she's still insecure, just like the rest of us."
Logan listened intently, her words striking a chord deep within him. Kitty continued, her voice taking on a slightly conspiratorial tone. "You know, Jean is still pissed at Scott for his psychic affair with Emma. And honestly, I think Scott did it to get back at Jean for all those years she let you flirt with her right in front of him."
Logan's eyebrows shot up, but he said nothing, letting Kitty continue.
"Scott might not admit it, but it must've driven him nuts. That's probably why he ended up doing some psychic hanky panky with Emma," Kitty said, her gaze fixed on the flickering flames. "Now he's in the doghouse for a long time. Jean's not one to let something like that slide easily. She’ll eventually forgive him, but until then, she’s going to make him work for it."
Logan nodded, taking in her words. Kitty's insights were sharp, and he knew she had a point. Scott and Jean's relationship had always been complicated, and the added layer of Scott's jealousy made a twisted kind of sense.
She then turned to Logan, her eyes wise beyond her years. "And you, my friend, you gotta man up and tell Ororo how you really feel about her."
Logan tried to deny it, shaking his head. "I don't know what you're talking about, kid."
Kitty laughed softly, her gaze unwavering. "Come on, Logan. I grew up around you and Ororo. While the others may be too wrapped up in their own drama to notice, I know you two have been secretly seeing each other for years. It's time you take the plunge and tell Ororo how you really feel. And FYI, she clearly feels the same about you, or she wouldn’t get so mad at you for calling those other girls 'hot'."
Logan sighed, the weight of her words settling on his shoulders. He knew she was right. Ororo meant everything to him, and it was time he let her know. He thought back to all the moments they had shared—the quiet conversations, the stolen nights spent in each other’s arms, the way her laughter could light up even his darkest days.
He looked up at Kitty, her face illuminated by the warm glow of the fire. "You're a wise kid, you know that?"
"You know I stopped being a kid a while ago, right?" Kitty grinned, her eyes sparkling with a mix of amusement and sincerity. "But seriously, I'm just looking out for you, Logan. You deserve to be happy, and so does Ororo."
Logan nodded, feeling a newfound resolve settle in his chest. Tomorrow, he'd find a way to make things right with Ororo and finally tell her how he truly felt. For now, he was grateful for Kitty's friendship and her candid advice. The night was still, the only sounds were the crackling fire, the distant howl of a wolf pack, and the snores of Rogue and Theresa. The chill of the Canadian wilderness in September wrapped around him, the cold air biting at his skin. The sky above was a canopy of stars, and the towering trees stood like silent sentinels. For the first time in days, Logan felt at peace as he breathed in the crisp, clean air. A new day was coming, and he was determined to make the most of it.
The next morning, Ororo quietly slipped out of the tent she was sharing with Jean. The rest of the team appeared to be sleeping in, making up for going to bed so late the previous night. She stretched her arms above her head, feeling the pull in her muscles. The gentle morning breeze greeted her as she glanced up at the sky. It was going to be a beautiful day, with the clear, crisp air and the early autumn sun casting a golden hue over the landscape. The Canadian wilderness was breathtaking, with majestic pine trees and the serene stillness of nature all around.
Ororo felt a deep longing to go sky dancing, to feel the wind beneath her and the freedom of the open sky. The thought of soaring high above the treetops, letting the breeze carry her worries away, was incredibly tempting. However, Scott’s no-powers rule echoed in her mind, a reminder of the limitations they had agreed to for the sake of their training exercise. She glanced around the campsite, the snores of her teammates and the gentle rustling of leaves the only sounds breaking the morning silence.
Realizing no one would know if she snuck off for just a little alone time, Ororo felt a rebellious thrill run through her. Some rules were meant to be broken, especially when she desperately needed to work out her anger at Logan. The memory of his careless words still stung, and the only way she knew how to truly clear her mind was to embrace the sky.
With a determined nod, she decided it was worth the risk. Besides, she reasoned, what harm would it be since no one would ever know. She took a deep breath, feeling the familiar tingle of her powers awakening, and looked around one more time to ensure everyone was still sleeping. Satisfied that she was alone, Ororo summoned a gentle breeze to lift herself up into the sky. As she rose higher, the camp below grew smaller, and she felt the familiar exhilaration of the wind rushing past her as she always did. The vast expanse of the Canadian wilderness unfolded beneath her, a patchwork of greens and browns, interspersed with shimmering lakes and meandering rivers. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of pine and earth.
Up here, Ororo's thoughts drifted to how much she had grown to love this wild, untamed land. The Canadian wilderness, Logan's homeland, was a stark contrast to both Cairo and Serengeti Plains where she had spent the majority of her youth. On the Serengeti Plains, the vast, open savannas stretched as far as the eye could see, teeming with wildlife and bathed in golden sunlight. Here, the dense forests and towering mountains of Canada exuded a rugged beauty, a constant reminder of the raw, untamed power of nature.
The Canadian wilderness had become a sanctuary for Ororo, a place of peace and solitude where she could connect with nature on a profound level. It was all thanks to Logan. He had shown her the beauty of this rugged landscape, guiding her through the dense forests and up the steep mountainsides, sharing with her the secret places only he knew. She had fallen in love with this land almost as much as she had fallen in love with him.
Coming here with Logan over the years had allowed Ororo to escape the relentless demands of their lives as X-Men. Here, she could forget the constant battles, the never-ending responsibility of protecting the world, and simply be herself. Logan, like the wilderness he called home, was fierce and untamed, yet he possessed a depth and strength that drew her in. He was her rock, her anchor, and the wild beauty of his homeland mirrored the wild beauty within him.
But her anger still simmered. Why was it so easy for Logan to openly admit he found those girls at the truck stop attractive? Yet, their relationship remained hidden in the shadows. Was he embarrassed of her? Did he not think she was good enough? Or did he only see her as someone for a fleeting affair? These questions gnawed at her, and the frustration of it all mingled with the fresh morning air, making her heart heavy.
As Ororo soared further away from the campsite, her thoughts continued to swirl. She needed to confront Logan, to understand why he kept their relationship hidden. She deserved to know the truth, and more importantly, she deserved to be loved openly and proudly.
The morning sky provided a perfect canvas for her emotions, the gentle currents of air lifting her higher and higher, giving her a sense of clarity and determination. She would talk to Logan. She would demand answers. And she would do it today.
Ororo let the wind carry her for a few more moments, savoring the freedom and the peace it brought her. Then, with solemn determination, she began her descent, ready to face the day and the man who held her heart.
She landed gracefully by a nearby lake, the water's surface shimmering in the early morning light. The water seemed to call to her, luring her with its serene beauty. She began to strip down, her movements fluid and unhurried. Once free of her clothes, she dove into the frigid water. With her powers, she didn't even notice the icy temperature. The cold water enveloped her, refreshing and invigorating, as she swam around the lake. Her lithe form cut through the water with effortless grace, her strokes smooth and powerful. Every splash and ripple brought her a sense of exhilaration.
As Ororo floated on her back, the sky above a canvas of pastel hues, she reveled in the simple pleasure of the moment. The water's gentle embrace brought her a unique happiness, and she let the simple joy of swimming in the lake fill her. Despite her fun, her thoughts occasionally drifted back to Logan, but for now, she allowed herself to enjoy the peace and beauty of the morning. Realizing she needed to get back to the campsite before the others noticed her absence, Ororo took one final dive into the cool, refreshing water.
Just as she surfaced again, she felt a prickle of awareness. Someone was watching her. Ororo's eyes darted to the spot where she had left her clothes, only to find them gone. Taking a deep breath to control her rising temper, she created a draft to lift herself out of the water, ignoring her lack of clothing.
It could easily be one of her teammates playing a prank, but after years as an X-Man, Ororo knew it could also be a real threat. She decided to take control of the situation.
"If you think I'm a helpless damsel in distress, you are sorely mistaken," she declared, her eyes turning completely white as clouds began to gather in the once-clear sky.
Logan immediately stepped out of the woods surrounding the lake walking towards the shoreline, his expression a combination of frustration and anger. "I can't believe you didn’t notice me following you from the campsite. And then you came out of the water, completely nude, without knowing who was stalking you," he growled.
Ororo's eyes cleared simultaneously with the sky. She floated over and landed in front of Logan, her bare feet softly touching the ground. Water droplets clung to her skin, glistening in the morning light, and her hair cascaded in wet waves down her back. To Logan, she was a vision, like the goddess Venus herself rising from the waters. Her beauty was beyond compare, ethereal yet fiercely real, and it struck him to his core. Every curve of her body, every glistening droplet on her skin, captivated him. She was a force of nature, majestic and the embodiment of every man’s fantasy, yet here she was, right in front of him.
Logan found it almost impossible to stay focused. His eyes traced the elegant lines of her body, lingering on the droplets that sparkled like diamonds on her flawless skin. His senses were overwhelmed by her scent, her presence. The primal urge to claim her, to mark her as his and protect her forever, surged within him. His heart pounded in his chest, and it took every ounce of his self-control to hold back the beast inside him, roaring to make her his mate. She was his everything, and he had never wanted anything more than he wanted her at that moment.
"I knew it was you the entire time," she lied, her voice steady and challenging, knowing he would smell she was lying.
"Really? Because the nose says otherwise," Logan shot back, his frustration evident. "You were so lost in your thoughts, you didn't even notice me following you from the tent."
Ororo crossed her arms over her chest, her eyes narrowing. "I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself, Logan. I don't need you to babysit me."
"Babysit you? Is that what you think this is?" Logan's voice rose, his anger matching hers. "I'm trying to keep you safe! You can't just go off on your own and ignore the rules."
"Rules?" Ororo scoffed. "Since when do you care about rules? You're the one who breaks them all the time."
"That's different," Logan growled. "I know what I'm doing. You, on the other hand, were completely oblivious."
Ororo’s frustration boiled over. "You're interrupting my morning swim," she snapped, turning to leave. “Don’t let me disturb you fantasizing about the 'hot girls' back at the truck stop."
Logan's gray eyes flashed with anger before darkening, a sign that the beast within him was surfacing. "The only woman I ever fantasize about is you," he growled, grabbing her arm and pulling her back into his embrace.
Before she could respond, Logan kissed her deeply, pouring all his frustration, love, and longing into the kiss. His lips were firm yet tender, moving against hers with a desperate intensity. Ororo's initial shock melted away as the warmth of his kiss enveloped her, and she felt her resistance crumble. She parted her lips, inviting him in, and their kiss deepened, becoming a dance of passion and need. Her arms wrapped around him, pulling him closer, as if she could fuse their bodies together and never let go. Logan's hands roamed her back going lower to her butt, feeling the smooth, wet skin beneath his fingers, and he savored every moment, losing himself in the taste, smell, and feel of her.
Just as Ororo's resistance melted and her arms tightened around him, Logan stepped away, still holding on to her. He struggled to catch his breath, closing his eyes to gather his thoughts and calm the blood rushing through his veins. The beast within clawed and roared at being denied his mate, but Logan was determined to hold it back. He needed to clear the air with Ororo and not give in to his primal desires. “Look, ‘Ro, we need to talk.”
Misunderstanding Logan’s intention, Ororo felt her heart break. So this was it. Not only did he not love her, but he was also about to end whatever they had between them. Snatching her arms away, Ororo bent down to gather up her clothes Logan had dropped during their argument. “I know what you’re going to say, and you’re right, this isn’t working,” Ororo interrupted, her voice tinged with sadness. “I know you wanted ‘no strings attached’…”
"Hold up," Logan said, grabbing Ororo’s arm and causing her to drop her clothes again. "You were the one who wanted ‘no strings attached.’ I never wanted that," he growled, pulling her closer so he could look her in the eyes. "You know what? Get dressed. We’re heading back to the campsite to sort this shit out."
Ororo, independent and strong, felt her first instinct was to tell Logan that, one, he didn’t tell her what to do, and two, she was going back to the campsite anyway. But one look at his expression—angry and stubborn—told her that now was not the time to argue with him. Defiantly, she maintained eye contact with him while pulling on her clothes, her movements deliberate and controlled.
Once she was dressed, Logan, his gaze softening just a fraction, said, “Let’s go, goddess,” as he motioned for her to walk in front of him. Refusing to give him the satisfaction of marching her back like some wayward child, Ororo summoned a wind to lift herself off the ground. But Logan, his senses sharp, jumped up and grabbed her ankle. “Don’t even think about leaving me. We’re going back together.”
“I wouldn’t dream of it,” she said sarcastically as she lowered herself, wrapping her arms around him before creating a draft to lift them both into the air. Usually, she enjoyed flying with Logan, finding comfort in their shared moments in the sky. But now, Ororo was more confused than ever. Not only had he abruptly stopped kissing her, but he had also refused to argue with her. This was unlike Logan, who was never one to back down from a confrontation. Even now, in her arms, she could feel the tension radiating from him, yet he remained unnervingly quiet. His silence left her feeling out of touch and unsure, emotions she was unaccustomed to experiencing with him.
As they neared the campsite, Ororo slowly descended. Remy, Kurt, Theresa, and Bobby were gathered around a makeshift table, engrossed in a card game. Laughter and playful teasing filled the air as they bantered over their hands. Kurt's tail flicked with excitement every time he played a card, while Remy dealt the cards with his usual flair. Rogue and Kitty were sitting on a log nearby, quietly chatting. Their conversation was subdued, punctuated by the occasional soft giggle or whisper. Rogue's eyes would drift towards Remy more often than not, only to find his gaze already on her before they both turned away, a subtle dance of stolen glances and unspoken tension between them.
Just as Kitty had predicted, Scott had managed to get back in Jean’s good graces by apologizing and promising he would spend the rest of his life making it up to her. However, now Scott was pacing back and forth, visibly frustrated. "This is unbelievable! We’re off schedule again, and Logan and Ororo are nowhere to be found. Logan was supposed to be here to assign duties!" he yelled, his voice carrying through the campsite. Despite his attempts to regain order, everyone continued with what they were doing, oblivious to Scott’s frustration.
Jean stood next to him, a calming hand on his arm. "Scott, relax. Logan and Ororo probably just went for a short walk. They’ll be back soon," she soothed, trying to ease his tension. "I could always reach out to them telepathically..."
“Absolutely not! We have a no-powers rule during this exercise, remember?” Scott grumbled, his eyes constantly scanning the horizon for any sign of their missing teammates. His frustration was palpable, especially as he watched the team goofing off and not taking the training exercise seriously.
Just as Scott was about to continue his tirade, a movement in the sky caught his eye. It was Ororo, flying back with Logan in her arms. Scott's eyebrows shot up in surprise. He watched as Ororo gracefully descended, landing softly on the ground with Logan beside her. His initial relief quickly turned to indignation.
“Ororo,” he chided, “now I expect maybe Bobby or Remy to break the no-power rule, but I never expected you…”
Logan, sensing Scott's rising tirade, growled, cutting him off. “Can it, Summers. I’ve got something to say.”
Everyone stopped and stared at Logan, including Ororo, who was just as confused as the rest. Everyone, that is, except for Kitty, who had the biggest smile on her face.
Logan took a deep breath, his gaze sweeping over the group before turning back to Ororo. “First off, ‘Ro and I have been in a relationship for several years.”
There was complete silence. You could literally hear a pin drop before everyone started talking over each other.
Jean's eyes lit up with excitement as she clasped her hands together, practically bouncing on her toes. "Oh my gosh, I knew it!"
Bobby dropped his cards in shock. "Wait a minute! You and Ororo? Someone better have packed some beer because there's no way I'm playing a round of 'Truth or Dare' sober!"
Scott threw his hands up in exasperation. "Well, there goes the schedule."
Ignoring the reactions, Logan continued, raising his voice to be heard over his friends. “I should’ve manned up years ago. Instead, I was a canucklehead and let ‘Ro think I wanted a no-strings-attached relationship.”
Bobby looked around frantically. "Seriously, I know someone snuck some adult beverages on this trip!"
Remy smirked and pulled out a flask from his jacket, handing it to Bobby. "Here, mon ami. You look like you need it."
“I ain’t going to lie. The sex is amazing. In fact, the best I’ve ever had. She literally is a goddess in bed,” Logan continued.
“Logan!” Ororo exclaimed, her cheeks flushing deeply. She noticed that some of the others were blushing as well. “I assure you, discussing our sex life with everyone is not necessary.”
“TMI. TMI. TMI!” Bobby chanted with his fingers in his ears.
Theresa, laughing, added, “Aye, we don’t need to know everything, Logan.”
"Dat's my souer you're talkin' about," Remy complained as Bobby handed the flask back to him. Remy took a big sip. "I'm still tryin' to decide if I should kick your ass or welcome you to the family."
Rogue walked over and snatched the flask from Remy. “It’s too dang early for y’all to be drinkin’. Besides, I never thought I’d see the day when our resident bad boy got domesticated. If Logan can grow up and settle down, then there’s hope for you yet, Swamp Rat.”
“We are never getting back on schedule at this point,” Scott complained.
“Okay, okay, damn it. I know I'm oversharing. I'm not used to all this mushy talk,” Logan conceded, looking around at the group before turning back to Ororo. “But what I want to say is, no more pretending. No more hiding. ‘Ro is the love of my life... now and forever.”
Ororo’s eyes filled with tears, and she threw her arms around him. “I love you too, Logan,” she shared, her voice choked with emotion.
Logan held her tightly, his voice softening. “I should’ve told you a long time ago, Sweetheart. You’re my everything.”
“No, Logan,” Ororo began softly, her voice filled with emotion. “I, too, am equally at fault. I should have been braver. I was so afraid to tell you the truth that I almost lost you to my jealousy.”
“Sweetheart, I ain’t never leaving your side,” Logan replied, his voice gruff yet tender. “And I gotta admit, I like you all aggressive and jealous.” He leaned in and kissed her deeply.
Kurt, who had been quietly watching, teleported next to Logan. “Congratulations, mein Freund. But maybe keep some details to yourself, ja?”
Kitty, unable to contain her excitement, clapped her hands and beamed. “Finally! I knew it all along! This makes me so happy!”
Bobby shook his head. “I need a flowchart to keep up with who is with who.”
Scott sighed, rubbing his temples. “Great. Logan and Ororo, I’m genuinely happy for the both of you. But can we please get back to the training exercise now?”
Logan wrapped his arm around Ororo’s waist, pulling her close. “Calm down, One Eye. I got this covered. Bobby, Kurt, you’re on firewood duty. Kitty, Scott, set up the cooking gear and the stove. Remy, Theresa, sort through the food supplies and figure out breakfast. Jean, Rogue, let’s get the sleeping bags sorted. Looks like sleeping arrangements are changing again.”
Scott smiled brightly as the group broke up and headed off to complete their tasks. “What about you and ‘Ro?” Scott asked, suddenly realizing Logan hadn’t assigned himself or Ororo any tasks.
Logan still had his arm around Ororo as he guided her towards the woods. He turned back, a mischievous glint in his eye, and wagged his eyebrows at Scott. “’Ro and I got first watch.”
Not catching on to Logan’s implication, Scott shouted after them, “Don’t forget, no powers!”
Logan smirked over his shoulder. “Can’t promise you that, One Eye. After three months of being apart, I’m pretty sure we’re about to get some stormy weather. And if I’m really naughty, ‘Ro might make it snow,” he bragged, causing Ororo’s melodious laughter to fill the air.
Scott’s exasperated sigh was nearly drowned out by the laughter from the rest of the group. “Logan, that’s not on the schedule!”