[ He could think of reasons why someone might want to leave; for all that it rarely happened. This was an island, set apart from the rest of the world. To some that could be a haven, to others it could be too isolating. For Erik, it's where he's meant to be; and he's happy to hear her express her desire to stay. ]
Most of us here have seen enough of what the world has to offer, for better or worse. [ Which was more or less an explanation for why most residents weren't just visiting, they'd made it their home as a choice. ] Those two are still young, they might decide to go back when they're older. Search for any remaining family. Seek justice for how they were treated. Whatever they decide, I will help them.
[ Both siblings are still happily painting, every so often exchanging bits of conversation in hushed tones. Mostly in French, though Erik hears a few English words uttered by Kira - translating for her brother the names for each color. ]
Justice and vengeance are easily confused. I just hope they remain as sweet as they are now.
[Though she's sure they've already seen and experienced too much.]
They could disguise themselves, if they want to venture out into the world without drawing attention. I could do it for them. But they shouldn't have to.
[Just as she never liked when Vision needed to appear human to avoid causing a scene. It's not fair.]
[ He nods in agreement, both words were linked together closely in his mind; and he'd spent much of his life occupied with one or the other enough to recognize the difference. But when you were hurting, it wasn't so easy to discern. He'd be a guide for them as best as he could, if and when that day came. ]
They are very sweet. I think giving them a space to grow up where they are allowed to be who they are will help.
[ It wouldn't erase the harm they'd been dealt in their past, but it would hopefully make a difference. He bristles slightly at the suggestion of a disguise. It's not directed at her, but a reaction of frustration that it should even be a thing to consider. ]
While that might prove useful in certain situations, I agree - they shouldn't have to.
[ He believed it adamantly. No mutant should have to hide. ]
It's strange how often appearances can divide people. Have you ever wanted to disguise yourself?
[ He asks curiously. Neither of their mutations were visible, but they were both not entirely anonymous figures; at least he could guess at that from the pieces she'd told him of herself. ]
I've needed to do it. But this is the extent of it.
[She twirls a lock of copper hair around her finger. She did tell him she's a brunette, after all, but back then the change in hair color was enough to throw people off her trail when she was in various countries beyond the United States.]
I guess this color grew on me. Before then, it was more like... I wanted to be someone else. Not just disguise.
[Her eyes settle on the children for a few moments, pleased with how much they seem to be absorbed in their painting. They're safe, their bellies are full, and they're relatively happy. It's all that matters. She looks back to Erik.]
I don't think I need to ask if you've wanted to disguise yourself. Or be someone else.
[ He huffs a quiet laugh at her accurate assement. ]
Even when it might have made my life easier, I would not choose to be anything different.
[ He took pride in all aspects of who he was, almost as an act of defiance against a world that wanted him to feel otherwise, for being both mutant as well as Jewish. But after what he'd been through the past few years, he could also understand why not everyone took such a uncompromising stance on it as he did. ]
Are you content as you are now? [ He shifts his focus from the children to glance over at her. ] Not counting the change in hair color, of course. The red suits you.
[ He offers a slight smile. The copper color was fitting, given the reddish glow of her power. ]
I like that about you. [The confidence. Shamelessness, because he is right--there's no shame in being who he is.] That's why you're the best leader for this place.
[She's followed a few different sort of leaders. All left her feeling conflicted, in a way, either because of the past or because of her inexperience. Not that it matters very much now. Even if she were home, Tony and Steve are gone.
They'd both be horrified by her now, anyway. Disappointed.
She'd hate for Erik to feel that way about her.]
... in this moment, I'm content as I am now. [Ask her again when she's alone, left with her thoughts.] I want to believe all the suffering has been for something.
[Maybe for the strength and wisdom to make a difference here. Or at least with these two kids.]
[ Sometimes suffering was just suffering. Erik didn't assign purpose where it didn't necessarily fit, but in Wanda's case he could see a direct positive impact from her presence here when it came to these two children. An impact he's not sure would have happened had it just been himself. They were opening up to her, building trust, gradually starting to heal. ]
I don't know all that you've been through, or what you've suffered... But I can tell you that your influence on these two children has an impact. A lasting one, that they will remember. Kindness can shape someone's path as much as pain. You and I know pain, but they don't have to; not in the same way.
[ They'd have different challenges, but they wouldn't suffer pain here, and they weren't alone anymore. ]
You've made a difference in their lives.
[ He said sincerely, glancing over to them and back to Wanda. ]
[She says with a smile, touched by his constant faith in her, even if they haven't known one another long. It goes both ways, she supposes.
And though their dynamic is different, it's impossible not to look at the siblings and see herself and Pietro, or Billy and Tommy, depending on the moment and the weight in her heart. Knowing she's brought them some happiness would be enough.]
I think it's safe to say you've made a difference in my life, then.
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. ]
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Most of us here have seen enough of what the world has to offer, for better or worse. [ Which was more or less an explanation for why most residents weren't just visiting, they'd made it their home as a choice. ] Those two are still young, they might decide to go back when they're older. Search for any remaining family. Seek justice for how they were treated. Whatever they decide, I will help them.
[ Both siblings are still happily painting, every so often exchanging bits of conversation in hushed tones. Mostly in French, though Erik hears a few English words uttered by Kira - translating for her brother the names for each color. ]
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[Though she's sure they've already seen and experienced too much.]
They could disguise themselves, if they want to venture out into the world without drawing attention. I could do it for them. But they shouldn't have to.
[Just as she never liked when Vision needed to appear human to avoid causing a scene. It's not fair.]
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They are very sweet. I think giving them a space to grow up where they are allowed to be who they are will help.
[ It wouldn't erase the harm they'd been dealt in their past, but it would hopefully make a difference. He bristles slightly at the suggestion of a disguise. It's not directed at her, but a reaction of frustration that it should even be a thing to consider. ]
While that might prove useful in certain situations, I agree - they shouldn't have to.
[ He believed it adamantly. No mutant should have to hide. ]
It's strange how often appearances can divide people. Have you ever wanted to disguise yourself?
[ He asks curiously. Neither of their mutations were visible, but they were both not entirely anonymous figures; at least he could guess at that from the pieces she'd told him of herself. ]
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[She twirls a lock of copper hair around her finger. She did tell him she's a brunette, after all, but back then the change in hair color was enough to throw people off her trail when she was in various countries beyond the United States.]
I guess this color grew on me. Before then, it was more like... I wanted to be someone else. Not just disguise.
[Her eyes settle on the children for a few moments, pleased with how much they seem to be absorbed in their painting. They're safe, their bellies are full, and they're relatively happy. It's all that matters. She looks back to Erik.]
I don't think I need to ask if you've wanted to disguise yourself. Or be someone else.
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Even when it might have made my life easier, I would not choose to be anything different.
[ He took pride in all aspects of who he was, almost as an act of defiance against a world that wanted him to feel otherwise, for being both mutant as well as Jewish. But after what he'd been through the past few years, he could also understand why not everyone took such a uncompromising stance on it as he did. ]
Are you content as you are now? [ He shifts his focus from the children to glance over at her. ] Not counting the change in hair color, of course. The red suits you.
[ He offers a slight smile. The copper color was fitting, given the reddish glow of her power. ]
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[She's followed a few different sort of leaders. All left her feeling conflicted, in a way, either because of the past or because of her inexperience. Not that it matters very much now. Even if she were home, Tony and Steve are gone.
They'd both be horrified by her now, anyway. Disappointed.
She'd hate for Erik to feel that way about her.]
... in this moment, I'm content as I am now. [Ask her again when she's alone, left with her thoughts.] I want to believe all the suffering has been for something.
[Maybe for the strength and wisdom to make a difference here. Or at least with these two kids.]
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[ Sometimes suffering was just suffering. Erik didn't assign purpose where it didn't necessarily fit, but in Wanda's case he could see a direct positive impact from her presence here when it came to these two children. An impact he's not sure would have happened had it just been himself. They were opening up to her, building trust, gradually starting to heal. ]
I don't know all that you've been through, or what you've suffered... But I can tell you that your influence on these two children has an impact. A lasting one, that they will remember. Kindness can shape someone's path as much as pain. You and I know pain, but they don't have to; not in the same way.
[ They'd have different challenges, but they wouldn't suffer pain here, and they weren't alone anymore. ]
You've made a difference in their lives.
[ He said sincerely, glancing over to them and back to Wanda. ]
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[She says with a smile, touched by his constant faith in her, even if they haven't known one another long. It goes both ways, she supposes.
And though their dynamic is different, it's impossible not to look at the siblings and see herself and Pietro, or Billy and Tommy, depending on the moment and the weight in her heart. Knowing she's brought them some happiness would be enough.]
I think it's safe to say you've made a difference in my life, then.
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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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