I'm just speaking the truth of what I've observed.
[ Erik smiles back at her warmly, happy that it seems like they're making progress when it comes to her accepting the kind words he's offering. He wouldn't say it just to say it, he means it. And he's equally as touched by her statement that follows. He takes a moment before answering. ]
I'm very glad to hear that.
[ He reaches out to give her shoulder a brief squeeze, then Kira's shuffling over shyly with her paper in hand. She looks at the floor, then up to Wanda; not saying anything initially, then she holds out the painting for her to take. For you she says quietly, in English.
It's an abstract rendition of Wanda's living room - the exact same colors of the walls, sofa, bookshelf and other furniture; complete with tiny splotches of color that resemble herself and Nic - the blue-ish green tone of their iridescent scales. She's looking at Wanda with some trepidation over whether or not she'll like it, while Erik offers an encouraging smile. ]
[Wanda's surprised to be approached so soon--just as she's surprised to get her own piece of artwork right after giving the kids their new paints. It's messy, the page still wet in spots and Kira's managed to get paint on her collar and elbow, somehow.]
For me? [It's with a genuine smile that Wanda takes the painting, sitting forward and resting it on her lap so that Erik can look, too.] It's perfect. Is this your first time painting?
[Kira nods, teeth pressed into her bottom lip as she tries not to smile too broadly at Wanda's pleased reaction. It's harder to maintain when Wanda continues,]
I love it. Thank you, Kira.
[Wanda glances at Erik with the same warm smile. In moments like these, she can't be anything but content with what she is.]
[ Erik watches the exchange with a broad smile. Moments like these are what keep him rooted to the present moment; and with hope for the future. When he's alone it's a struggle sometimes to not feel the weight of his past dragging him backward, if only in his mind.
But seeing Kira light up with happiness in response to Wanda's reaction; it's more precious than he can express with anything other than the look in his eyes and on his face. For all that he hopes the environment is healing for the two children, he realizes it's healing for him as well just to be around them. ]
It's a lovely painting, Kira.
[ The young girl doesn't seem to know quite what to do with so much praise directed at her, she dips her head as if embarrassed; but the happy smile on her face remains as she goes to rejoin her brother at the table. She whispers excitedly to Nic who is still focused on his own painting, a small smile appears on his face briefly before he dips his brush back into the paint. ]
Where will you keep it?
[ Erik asks as he glances down at the painting she holds. ]
[Wanda's eyes linger on Kira as she grabs another piece of paper without hesitation to start swirling paint on it. Looking down at her present, she quietly passes a hand over it, the wet splotches drying instantly.]
My nightstand, I think. Something nice to wake up to.
[Rather than the daily, momentary dip in her gut that there's another day to face so far from the family she misses. It might not ward that away entirely, but how could it not help? A tap from Wanda's index finger creates a frame, much like the ones she made for Erik.]
[ He smiles at her answer. He might have put his frame in the same place, but though he's still thinking about it; he knows what he would really like would be a photo, from his memories, of his family to place on his nightstand. To see their faces again - every time he wakes up, and just before falling asleep. ]
It helps, being around them. [ He admits after a moment, glancing toward Kira and Nic. ] I thought it might be too strong of a reminder. I wasn't sure how this would go, but now that I see how happy they are it makes me think it would be beneficial if this were a regular occurrence.
[ Not only beneficial for the siblings, but for himself and from what it seemed like, Wanda as well. He glances over at her. ]
What do you think?
[ With help, they could get them up to a standard reading and writing level for their ages; and in time their English would improve. Maybe Nic would gradually feel comfortable enough to speak more often. ]
[They both knew this had the potential of being difficult. Painful. And maybe it is, sometimes. But here they are, having a good time. Making progress. It might not always be this easy, this good and peaceful, but this gives her hope.
And it can't ever be too terrible if they're doing this together.]
I think that's a wonderful idea.
[And how much he must be at ease, enjoying the reading and watching the children, to suggest making it a regular thing at all. It'll give them all something to look forward to.]
I'm going to need more books.
[Kira, certainly not eavesdropping, glances over at the mention of more books. Oops.]
[ He's glad to hear her say that, not that he had any particular doubts given the positive way she responded to the children and they to her. She'd talked about the concept of a mentor before, and Erik couldn't help but be reminded of that now. What was a mentor if not someone to provide them with outlets like this - for fun, learning, company. Erik and Wanda both filled that role at the moment.
Erik catches Kira's quick glance back at them at the mention of more books. ]
That's a good idea. Maybe you could help me to expand my own library a bit?
[ He asks Wanda, though he's aware Kira's listening; she's turned back to the paper and paint but still glances over her shoulder every so often. He takes the curiosity and interest as a good sign.
His own library is full of books in multiple languages, plenty in French, but no children's books. And he likes the idea of one day having Kira and Nic over to his place to read, along with Wanda. His home should be a place where they felt comfortable to stop by if they needed something. ]
[The kids will bring some light into his home, surely, but now there's even more reason to add some color and comfort.]
Do you know how to cook?
[Just curious. She likes to cook, and she's sure the children won't complain, but if it's something he has an interest in--the more the merrier. Wanda looks from Erik to the kids, watching Kira whisper to her brother, no doubt letting him know something of what she can figure out about the conversation.
Nic gives it away when he looks back excitedly at Wanda and Erik, Kira grabbing his arm to try and make it like she hasn't been sharing the information.]
I do. My mother taught me the basics when I was young.
[ A fond look passes over his face as he's reminded of much simpler times - preparing dinner with his parents and grandparents while each spoke about their day. It's a distant memory, fading more as the years go by, but he holds tightly to it. ]
I've been learning more dishes since we've added to the garden here.
[ A large part of the garden's expansion was thanks in part to Wanda, which he acknowledges with a look of gratitude to her just before he glances over at Kira, who quickly turns her head back to her painting - he's caught her 'spying' on their conversation, which draws a slight chuckle from Erik. He hopes to convey there's no harm in her overhearing. ]
C'est bon, Kira. [ It's alright. Both children quietly giggle, the only indication being the slight motion of their shoulders. ]
[It's said warmly, because she wouldn't have minded being the sole cook--she can do much more than sandwiches. Perhaps, eventually, they could see if the kids have interest in cooking, but one step at a time.
Wanda looks down at her artwork one more time before a touch to the corner has it disappearing entirely, presumably sent to its spot on her nightstand, safe and out of the way.]
[ He hasn't cooked for anyone but himself in quite some time, but it's a thought that tugs at his heart. It's only when things are peaceful, a rare thing with the life he's lived; that he could ever enjoy moments like this. The simplicity is something he doesn't take for granted.
Erik asks the children, in French, if they have any requests for what they'd like to have for dinner next time. He doesn't expect them to answer right away; they tip their heads together and whisper in serious tones, apparently this was a decision that needed extensive deliberation. ]
What did your boys like best? [ He asks her, while the siblings are still discussing. He hopes that in continuing to ask about them, he's not crossing a line. ]
[He isn't. They're still learning about one another, and a thing that they have in common is that they were once parents. It's natural, to ask. Wanda takes a deep breath, not because of the memory, but because she knows she's about to cause a disruption.]
Sweets. Candy. Chocolate.
[She says simply, but it's very clear both Kira and Nico know those English words as both of their heads whip around. Her boys would gladly eat candy for every meal if they had a chance. Deciding that since there wasn't a dessert earlier there's no harm in a little treat. Wanda closes her palms, a brief glow of red peeking out through her fingers, and when she opens them, there's a few pieces of wrapped chocolates in each palm. She holds them out towards the kids, knowing she has their attention.]
Here. It's okay.
[Candy on top of what they've already gotten seems too good to be true, but at her coaxing, the siblings come to collect their treats with excited, quiet little thank yous said before they retreat back to the coffee table to inspect the contents of each foil-wrapped treat.
Leaning back against the couch, she closes and opens her hand one more time before extending it to Erik, a chocolate there for him, too.]
If you mean real food, spaghetti was always a winner. [Except they never had a spaghetti dinner together. But she knows.] And Nina?
Don't let the other children know you can do that. You'll never have a moment's peace.
[ Erik teases with a grin as he reaches for the chocolate she offers, thanking her as he inspects the foil a moment before opening it. Such a small thing brought Kira and Nic so much happiness, it was delightful to watch them light up once again. They hadn't had enough good in their lives, but that was something that could change; and already was changing.
They don't often have many sweets available and stocked up on the island, so Erik takes a moment to savor the chocolate before answering. ]
Nina loved sweets as well. But her favorite thing was latkes - she could eat them every day, happily. They are simple enough to make, I was able to teach her how.
[ His smile is softly amused as he goes on. ]
But she insisted they tasted better when I made them. [ It was likely to get out of making them herself, Erik knew but never minded. It was such a small thing he could do for her, so he did, gladly. ]
[The warning gets a grin out of Wanda--oh, she knows. She's entirely content to spoil Kira and Nic with art supplies and sweets. Now and then. Her expression softens, as it often does, when he talks about Nina. She can feel the fondness in his words.]
Will you show me how to make them?
[They can let the kids decide if they do indeed taste better when Erik makes them.]
[ Erik takes a breath, it's a little unsteady sounding. It's a normal question for her to ask, after all they were just talking about cooking and making a meal for the children. But the question reaches some part of him still greiving, still raw, and it stirs things up a bit internally.
He's only ever taught Nina how to make latkes. He wanted her to live a long life, long enough to teach her own children how. He envisioned being there for all of it.
Erik feels the sting of tears behind his eyes, but nothing spills over onto his cheeks. He breaks eye contact with Wanda with a softly spoken apology, jaw tight as he gazes toward the kitchen for a few moments, regaining composure. ]
I can show you.
[ Said with a slight smile once the emotion has mostly passed. ]
I apologize. It just... it's meant to be passed on, generation to generation. [ And now he was the last. He couldn't quite bring himself to say the words, but she likely knew. He'd rather it be passed on to her, and maybe at some point Kira and Nic; rather than only known to him. ]
[It takes Wanda a long moment to realize what has him emotional, not expecting such an innocent thing to get so deeply in between his ribs, but it's often the little things that manage to get in, isn't it? She gives him a moment, her own eyes on the kids, glad they're so enraptured by their treats that they're oblivious to what the adults are doing.
Erik rallies, and Wanda then understands when he explains. Of course. It's not the first time she's reach for his hand, but it's all she can think to do to offer some sort of comfort.]
It's okay. When you're ready.
[Like with the memories, the photos. She gives him a small, sad smile. If anyone would understand, it's her.]
[ With anyone else, he would have felt far more uncomfortable having his grief on display for that moment; but Erik knows she understands, in a way most wouldn't. It's not the first time he's shown her that side of himself typically kept under wraps; and likely not the last. He's relieved the kids are still preoccupied with their candy, he wouldn't want them to think anything was wrong, and it would be a bit difficult to explain his reaction.
The reassurance of her hand is a steadying thing, and he gives it a squeeze. ]
It should be passed on. My parents would have liked that.
[ They would have liked Genosha as well, he thinks. With a sigh he lets go of her hand, the smile on his face is a little sad still but he's piecing himself back together. ]
I liked my mother's cooking. She took pride in what she made. I wanted to be like that.
[He must think she cooked for her boys for years. She didn't. But she doesn't have the heart to tell him the truth of it, and certainly not with children in the room.]
Cooking is a way of... caring. Making a connection.
[She remembers Vision attempting a meal to bring her some happiness, even if he had no real idea what food should taste like. It was the act that counted, to her. This is no insignificant thing, that Erik is sharing.]
Don't feel rushed to share that part of yourself yet. I'm happy to handle meals once a week until it's time.
[ He nodded his thanks for her patience. He'd been closed off for so many years to these parts of himself, unraveling them was a process, one he wasn't capable of rushing; he was glad she understood that. He was also glad that she was sharing these pieces of herself as well, her past. He knew it was shaky territory for both of them. ]
That's how my mother looked at it as well. As an act of showing care.
[ Which was why these dinners were tugging at that part of him; both he and Wanda wanted to show these children that same kind of care. They knew the difference it made.
Nic was still working on his painting, taking great focus on what he was creating; but Kira's attention was wandering. She glanced back at Wanda and Erik, turning halfway in her chair as if debating on asking something. Erik glanced up at her as she walked over to the bookshelf and picked out another book. Shyly, she came to stand in front of them and asked, in English, if they could read again. Erik exchanged a glance with Wanda before smiling and telling her of course.
He expected she'd pick out a spot on the floor to spread out like she'd done previously, but instead she'd decided to take a seat on the sofa.
Her tiny form didn't take up much space between the two of them as she opened the book and began to glance over the words on the page. ]
[As much as Wanda is enjoying herself, some part of her is determined to keep thoughts of Vision and her boys at a minimum. This is the life she wanted with them. She has to tell herself to enjoy this for what it is: time with a friend, and time with children that need some positive experiences with adults.
Even with as well as it's going, Wanda looks surprised that Kira's willingly joining them and leaving her brother to his own devices. Of course, she's happy to help with more reading. Kira had chosen a book a little thicker than the last, determined to get through it. Prolong the night, maybe.
About a quarter in, Nic abandons his artwork to come sit on the couch, quietly motioning to the spot beside Wanda, a smudge of chocolate on his face in addition to the paint. It's another surprise, him wanting to join them, but Wanda only greets him with a smile and nod. No need to draw attention to it.
And then, with about a quarter left, Wanda's very aware of Nic's head bobbing forward as she tries to fight sleep. Kira, too, has slowed in her attempt to get through the pages, pausing now and then to yawn, but stubbornly continuing.
Wanda looks over the girl's head to mouth silently to Erik: Bedtime?]
[ Erik's reminded of his own family as well in this simple act of reading together on the couch, it's painful mixed in with something healing; like much of what he's experienced so far in regards to the four of them all spending time together. But he tried to set aside the ache he feels, wanting to show Kira and Nic that it's safe for them to open up more.
He's touched when Nic comes over to join them; still surprised that Kira had climbed up onto the sofa between them. Erik fights off a chuckle when Kira starts trying to avoid yawning, and from the looks of it; Nic is close to drifting off. He nods at Wanda's suggestion; definitely time for bed for these two. ]
I think that's enough for tonight. [ He reaches over to close the book and set it aside on the couch. Kira doesn't protest, just sort of blinks a few times and shuffles off the couch, rubbing her eyes as she looks over at her brother who is now fully asleep. She moves to reach for his arm, as if to wake him up but Erik gently intercepts. He asks in softly spoken French if it's alright if he helps them back to their home, to which Kira nods after a moment's pause.
Then, careful not to wake him, Erik lifts the boy's slight form into his arms; he's out like a light and doesn't notice the shift. Erik turns to Wanda, glancing at the book Kira was reading. ]
I think she might want to borrow that, if it's alright with you.
[Wanda says with a smile to Kira, who is far too tired to catch what she's saying, and therefore doesn't react. She's too busy trying to rub sleep from her eyes. Oh, well. She'll just have to find it in the morning.
Gently place her hand on the back of Kira's shoulders, she leads the way out into the night. Wanda's home is a little bit apart from the rest, the path a touch less well lit, and so she holds a hand up, an orb of red lighting the way.]
He's out like a light. After all that sugar, too.
[But it was an exciting few hours. A chance for the siblings to truly relax.]
[ It's no wonder they're both tired, after the eventful evening they had. It warms his heart to think that they both felt safe and comfortable enough to fall asleep while reading. Erik's careful not to wake Nic as they head down the path from Wanda's home to the main row of houses. Kira's eyes follow the red orb of light, curious even in her fatigued state.
The siblings share a room in one of the dwellings inhabited by a family that had been living in Genosha since it's early days; they help watch over the two but from what Erik had been told Kira and Nic still preferred to keep mostly to themselves.
He knocks quietly at the door and is let in with a hushed greeting and a smile by the mother of the family. There's surprise on her features as she sees them; but she just gestures toward their room with a nod. The living space is quiet, the rest of the family getting ready for bed themselves.
Erik gently places Nic in his bed; Kira wanders over to check on him briefly, then slides into her own bed with a tired sigh. Erik's voice is quiet and tender as he stands in the doorway to bid them goodnight. ]
[The kids are dotted in paint splotches, but they're so comfortably spent that changing clothes and washing up can wait until morning. Wanda sets the book on Kira's nightstand and pulls up a blanket over her tiny form, bidding her a good night before joining Erik.
They're thanked by the couple and told they're surprised to see the kids so content. Wanda tells them about the plan to have the siblings over regularly for some extra help with reading and writing, and they agree it's a good idea and will do what they can to assist.
Another exchange of good nights, and Wanda waits until they're clear of the house before stepping in to lightly bump Erik with her shoulder, small small on her face. ]
[ He gives the honest answer with a slight smile as they continue on down the path. ]
It's difficult not to miss my daughter, in moments like that. I use to carry her to her bed when she'd fall asleep on the sofa, on an almost nightly basis. [ There is sadness as well as fondness in his tone. ] But I'll be alright. Tonight was good for them. And for us as well, I think.
[ For him it was the beginning of a kind of healing that had been on hold for a long time. Loss like what he'd experienced and what Wanda had never really left, but it was possible to ease some of the pain - with connection. And by not giving in to the protective instinct of isolation. He still struggled a bit with that. But it was clear the two children needed guidance, and care. He was in a position to provide it, so he would. Fortunately, he had help. ]
Are you alright?
[ He asks as he looks over at her, studying her expression. It's harder to see with just the red glow of light, but he hopes tonight brought her heart more warmth than pain. ]
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[ Erik smiles back at her warmly, happy that it seems like they're making progress when it comes to her accepting the kind words he's offering. He wouldn't say it just to say it, he means it. And he's equally as touched by her statement that follows. He takes a moment before answering. ]
I'm very glad to hear that.
[ He reaches out to give her shoulder a brief squeeze, then Kira's shuffling over shyly with her paper in hand. She looks at the floor, then up to Wanda; not saying anything initially, then she holds out the painting for her to take. For you she says quietly, in English.
It's an abstract rendition of Wanda's living room - the exact same colors of the walls, sofa, bookshelf and other furniture; complete with tiny splotches of color that resemble herself and Nic - the blue-ish green tone of their iridescent scales. She's looking at Wanda with some trepidation over whether or not she'll like it, while Erik offers an encouraging smile. ]
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For me? [It's with a genuine smile that Wanda takes the painting, sitting forward and resting it on her lap so that Erik can look, too.] It's perfect. Is this your first time painting?
[Kira nods, teeth pressed into her bottom lip as she tries not to smile too broadly at Wanda's pleased reaction. It's harder to maintain when Wanda continues,]
I love it. Thank you, Kira.
[Wanda glances at Erik with the same warm smile. In moments like these, she can't be anything but content with what she is.]
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But seeing Kira light up with happiness in response to Wanda's reaction; it's more precious than he can express with anything other than the look in his eyes and on his face. For all that he hopes the environment is healing for the two children, he realizes it's healing for him as well just to be around them. ]
It's a lovely painting, Kira.
[ The young girl doesn't seem to know quite what to do with so much praise directed at her, she dips her head as if embarrassed; but the happy smile on her face remains as she goes to rejoin her brother at the table. She whispers excitedly to Nic who is still focused on his own painting, a small smile appears on his face briefly before he dips his brush back into the paint. ]
Where will you keep it?
[ Erik asks as he glances down at the painting she holds. ]
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My nightstand, I think. Something nice to wake up to.
[Rather than the daily, momentary dip in her gut that there's another day to face so far from the family she misses. It might not ward that away entirely, but how could it not help? A tap from Wanda's index finger creates a frame, much like the ones she made for Erik.]
There.
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It helps, being around them. [ He admits after a moment, glancing toward Kira and Nic. ] I thought it might be too strong of a reminder. I wasn't sure how this would go, but now that I see how happy they are it makes me think it would be beneficial if this were a regular occurrence.
[ Not only beneficial for the siblings, but for himself and from what it seemed like, Wanda as well. He glances over at her. ]
What do you think?
[ With help, they could get them up to a standard reading and writing level for their ages; and in time their English would improve. Maybe Nic would gradually feel comfortable enough to speak more often. ]
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And it can't ever be too terrible if they're doing this together.]
I think that's a wonderful idea.
[And how much he must be at ease, enjoying the reading and watching the children, to suggest making it a regular thing at all. It'll give them all something to look forward to.]
I'm going to need more books.
[Kira, certainly not eavesdropping, glances over at the mention of more books. Oops.]
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Erik catches Kira's quick glance back at them at the mention of more books. ]
That's a good idea. Maybe you could help me to expand my own library a bit?
[ He asks Wanda, though he's aware Kira's listening; she's turned back to the paper and paint but still glances over her shoulder every so often. He takes the curiosity and interest as a good sign.
His own library is full of books in multiple languages, plenty in French, but no children's books. And he likes the idea of one day having Kira and Nic over to his place to read, along with Wanda. His home should be a place where they felt comfortable to stop by if they needed something. ]
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[The kids will bring some light into his home, surely, but now there's even more reason to add some color and comfort.]
Do you know how to cook?
[Just curious. She likes to cook, and she's sure the children won't complain, but if it's something he has an interest in--the more the merrier. Wanda looks from Erik to the kids, watching Kira whisper to her brother, no doubt letting him know something of what she can figure out about the conversation.
Nic gives it away when he looks back excitedly at Wanda and Erik, Kira grabbing his arm to try and make it like she hasn't been sharing the information.]
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[ A fond look passes over his face as he's reminded of much simpler times - preparing dinner with his parents and grandparents while each spoke about their day. It's a distant memory, fading more as the years go by, but he holds tightly to it. ]
I've been learning more dishes since we've added to the garden here.
[ A large part of the garden's expansion was thanks in part to Wanda, which he acknowledges with a look of gratitude to her just before he glances over at Kira, who quickly turns her head back to her painting - he's caught her 'spying' on their conversation, which draws a slight chuckle from Erik. He hopes to convey there's no harm in her overhearing. ]
C'est bon, Kira. [ It's alright. Both children quietly giggle, the only indication being the slight motion of their shoulders. ]
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[It's said warmly, because she wouldn't have minded being the sole cook--she can do much more than sandwiches. Perhaps, eventually, they could see if the kids have interest in cooking, but one step at a time.
Wanda looks down at her artwork one more time before a touch to the corner has it disappearing entirely, presumably sent to its spot on her nightstand, safe and out of the way.]
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[ He hasn't cooked for anyone but himself in quite some time, but it's a thought that tugs at his heart. It's only when things are peaceful, a rare thing with the life he's lived; that he could ever enjoy moments like this. The simplicity is something he doesn't take for granted.
Erik asks the children, in French, if they have any requests for what they'd like to have for dinner next time. He doesn't expect them to answer right away; they tip their heads together and whisper in serious tones, apparently this was a decision that needed extensive deliberation. ]
What did your boys like best? [ He asks her, while the siblings are still discussing. He hopes that in continuing to ask about them, he's not crossing a line. ]
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Sweets. Candy. Chocolate.
[She says simply, but it's very clear both Kira and Nico know those English words as both of their heads whip around. Her boys would gladly eat candy for every meal if they had a chance. Deciding that since there wasn't a dessert earlier there's no harm in a little treat. Wanda closes her palms, a brief glow of red peeking out through her fingers, and when she opens them, there's a few pieces of wrapped chocolates in each palm. She holds them out towards the kids, knowing she has their attention.]
Here. It's okay.
[Candy on top of what they've already gotten seems too good to be true, but at her coaxing, the siblings come to collect their treats with excited, quiet little thank yous said before they retreat back to the coffee table to inspect the contents of each foil-wrapped treat.
Leaning back against the couch, she closes and opens her hand one more time before extending it to Erik, a chocolate there for him, too.]
If you mean real food, spaghetti was always a winner. [Except they never had a spaghetti dinner together. But she knows.] And Nina?
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[ Erik teases with a grin as he reaches for the chocolate she offers, thanking her as he inspects the foil a moment before opening it. Such a small thing brought Kira and Nic so much happiness, it was delightful to watch them light up once again. They hadn't had enough good in their lives, but that was something that could change; and already was changing.
They don't often have many sweets available and stocked up on the island, so Erik takes a moment to savor the chocolate before answering. ]
Nina loved sweets as well. But her favorite thing was latkes - she could eat them every day, happily. They are simple enough to make, I was able to teach her how.
[ His smile is softly amused as he goes on. ]
But she insisted they tasted better when I made them. [ It was likely to get out of making them herself, Erik knew but never minded. It was such a small thing he could do for her, so he did, gladly. ]
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Will you show me how to make them?
[They can let the kids decide if they do indeed taste better when Erik makes them.]
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He's only ever taught Nina how to make latkes. He wanted her to live a long life, long enough to teach her own children how. He envisioned being there for all of it.
Erik feels the sting of tears behind his eyes, but nothing spills over onto his cheeks. He breaks eye contact with Wanda with a softly spoken apology, jaw tight as he gazes toward the kitchen for a few moments, regaining composure. ]
I can show you.
[ Said with a slight smile once the emotion has mostly passed. ]
I apologize. It just... it's meant to be passed on, generation to generation. [ And now he was the last. He couldn't quite bring himself to say the words, but she likely knew. He'd rather it be passed on to her, and maybe at some point Kira and Nic; rather than only known to him. ]
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Erik rallies, and Wanda then understands when he explains. Of course. It's not the first time she's reach for his hand, but it's all she can think to do to offer some sort of comfort.]
It's okay. When you're ready.
[Like with the memories, the photos. She gives him a small, sad smile. If anyone would understand, it's her.]
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The reassurance of her hand is a steadying thing, and he gives it a squeeze. ]
It should be passed on. My parents would have liked that.
[ They would have liked Genosha as well, he thinks. With a sigh he lets go of her hand, the smile on his face is a little sad still but he's piecing himself back together. ]
Have you always liked cooking?
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[He must think she cooked for her boys for years. She didn't. But she doesn't have the heart to tell him the truth of it, and certainly not with children in the room.]
Cooking is a way of... caring. Making a connection.
[She remembers Vision attempting a meal to bring her some happiness, even if he had no real idea what food should taste like. It was the act that counted, to her. This is no insignificant thing, that Erik is sharing.]
Don't feel rushed to share that part of yourself yet. I'm happy to handle meals once a week until it's time.
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That's how my mother looked at it as well. As an act of showing care.
[ Which was why these dinners were tugging at that part of him; both he and Wanda wanted to show these children that same kind of care. They knew the difference it made.
Nic was still working on his painting, taking great focus on what he was creating; but Kira's attention was wandering. She glanced back at Wanda and Erik, turning halfway in her chair as if debating on asking something. Erik glanced up at her as she walked over to the bookshelf and picked out another book. Shyly, she came to stand in front of them and asked, in English, if they could read again. Erik exchanged a glance with Wanda before smiling and telling her of course.
He expected she'd pick out a spot on the floor to spread out like she'd done previously, but instead she'd decided to take a seat on the sofa.
Her tiny form didn't take up much space between the two of them as she opened the book and began to glance over the words on the page. ]
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Even with as well as it's going, Wanda looks surprised that Kira's willingly joining them and leaving her brother to his own devices. Of course, she's happy to help with more reading. Kira had chosen a book a little thicker than the last, determined to get through it. Prolong the night, maybe.
About a quarter in, Nic abandons his artwork to come sit on the couch, quietly motioning to the spot beside Wanda, a smudge of chocolate on his face in addition to the paint. It's another surprise, him wanting to join them, but Wanda only greets him with a smile and nod. No need to draw attention to it.
And then, with about a quarter left, Wanda's very aware of Nic's head bobbing forward as she tries to fight sleep. Kira, too, has slowed in her attempt to get through the pages, pausing now and then to yawn, but stubbornly continuing.
Wanda looks over the girl's head to mouth silently to Erik: Bedtime?]
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He's touched when Nic comes over to join them; still surprised that Kira had climbed up onto the sofa between them. Erik fights off a chuckle when Kira starts trying to avoid yawning, and from the looks of it; Nic is close to drifting off. He nods at Wanda's suggestion; definitely time for bed for these two. ]
I think that's enough for tonight. [ He reaches over to close the book and set it aside on the couch. Kira doesn't protest, just sort of blinks a few times and shuffles off the couch, rubbing her eyes as she looks over at her brother who is now fully asleep. She moves to reach for his arm, as if to wake him up but Erik gently intercepts. He asks in softly spoken French if it's alright if he helps them back to their home, to which Kira nods after a moment's pause.
Then, careful not to wake him, Erik lifts the boy's slight form into his arms; he's out like a light and doesn't notice the shift. Erik turns to Wanda, glancing at the book Kira was reading. ]
I think she might want to borrow that, if it's alright with you.
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[Wanda says with a smile to Kira, who is far too tired to catch what she's saying, and therefore doesn't react. She's too busy trying to rub sleep from her eyes. Oh, well. She'll just have to find it in the morning.
Gently place her hand on the back of Kira's shoulders, she leads the way out into the night. Wanda's home is a little bit apart from the rest, the path a touch less well lit, and so she holds a hand up, an orb of red lighting the way.]
He's out like a light. After all that sugar, too.
[But it was an exciting few hours. A chance for the siblings to truly relax.]
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[ It's no wonder they're both tired, after the eventful evening they had. It warms his heart to think that they both felt safe and comfortable enough to fall asleep while reading. Erik's careful not to wake Nic as they head down the path from Wanda's home to the main row of houses. Kira's eyes follow the red orb of light, curious even in her fatigued state.
The siblings share a room in one of the dwellings inhabited by a family that had been living in Genosha since it's early days; they help watch over the two but from what Erik had been told Kira and Nic still preferred to keep mostly to themselves.
He knocks quietly at the door and is let in with a hushed greeting and a smile by the mother of the family. There's surprise on her features as she sees them; but she just gestures toward their room with a nod. The living space is quiet, the rest of the family getting ready for bed themselves.
Erik gently places Nic in his bed; Kira wanders over to check on him briefly, then slides into her own bed with a tired sigh. Erik's voice is quiet and tender as he stands in the doorway to bid them goodnight. ]
Get some sleep you two.
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They're thanked by the couple and told they're surprised to see the kids so content. Wanda tells them about the plan to have the siblings over regularly for some extra help with reading and writing, and they agree it's a good idea and will do what they can to assist.
Another exchange of good nights, and Wanda waits until they're clear of the house before stepping in to lightly bump Erik with her shoulder, small small on her face. ]
You okay?
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[ He gives the honest answer with a slight smile as they continue on down the path. ]
It's difficult not to miss my daughter, in moments like that. I use to carry her to her bed when she'd fall asleep on the sofa, on an almost nightly basis. [ There is sadness as well as fondness in his tone. ] But I'll be alright. Tonight was good for them. And for us as well, I think.
[ For him it was the beginning of a kind of healing that had been on hold for a long time. Loss like what he'd experienced and what Wanda had never really left, but it was possible to ease some of the pain - with connection. And by not giving in to the protective instinct of isolation. He still struggled a bit with that. But it was clear the two children needed guidance, and care. He was in a position to provide it, so he would. Fortunately, he had help. ]
Are you alright?
[ He asks as he looks over at her, studying her expression. It's harder to see with just the red glow of light, but he hopes tonight brought her heart more warmth than pain. ]
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