Chapter 5
Charles stared at himself in the mirror and even now, he couldn't believe he had gotten this far. He was starting to wonder if this was just all some dream; that he will wake up soon and find that everything was just a fantasy…or a nightmare. His hands trembled slightly as he knotted his tie. It was the day of the competition and he thought he would get past his nerves, but the more he tried to calm down, the more unnerved he felt. He worriedly licked his lips when he messed up the knot of his tie. He stopped for a moment to pace around the dressing room, running his hands through his hair, nostrils flaring as he tried to get himself under control. A knock at his door caused him to grimace, but then he saw that it was only Erik. Erik took one look at Charles' face and he immediately caught the apprehension Charles felt. He entered the room and reached for Charles’ shoulders.
"Charles, are you ok?"
"Not really-"Charles murmured, exhaling a shuddery breath.
Erik bent close to him and kissed his forehead."Charles you don’t have to be afraid. We’ve gone over our routine so many times. You’ve got this!"
"I know, but what if I make a fool of myself?"
"This is your first competition after all, so it’s quite understandable that you’d be afraid, but I believe in you Charles. You’ve got to believe in yourself too."
Erik noticed that Charles’ tie wasn’t knotted properly.
"Let me help you with this-"He reached out to undo the knot and he fixed it for Charles.
Charles smiled up at Erik affectionately, his expression becoming endearing. Erik actually blushed, just seeing that look on his face. Now that Charles didn’t wear glasses anymore, Charles’ blue eyes drew him in and a sudden urge to kiss Charles overcame him. He responded to that urge recklessly. He leaned in and kissed Charles on the lips, his kiss soft and meant to give reassurance. Charles froze up for a moment, surprised by Erik's sudden show of affection, but then he leaned in and allowed Erik to kiss him. Erik pulled back, grinning.
"Better?"
Charles sighed softly."Yes. Thank you, Erik-"
"Welcome, but Charles, surely you can thank me in a different way-"Erik said playfully.
"What do you mean?"
Erik leaned in and even though it was only the two of them in the room, he whispered his response into Charles' ear.
"After the competition, I want to do it with you, Charles-"
Charles backed away from him quickly, his eyes wide and full of disbelief, cheeks burning hotly."Jesus, Erik! Really?"
Erik nodded, his expression becoming testy."You don't sound pleased at the prospect of it-"He said dryly.
"W-Well, Erik...I don't know. I mean I haven't...that is, I never thought of going that far with you yet-"
Erik stalked over to him, causing Charles to walk backwards until Erik had him pressed up against a wall, Charles' eyes growing wide and fearful. Erik shot his hands forward, slapping them up against the wall, entrapping Charles between his outstretched arms. He leaned in and he drew in a deep breath. Charles smelled really good. He exhaled a breath over Charles' face, causing Charles to shiver.
"Don't you want me too, Charles? Don't you want to see how far we can take this? I love you and I want to show you how much I love you-"Erik murmured.
It truly shocked Charles that Erik felt this way about him. He'd been lusting after Erik ever since he started attending the studio, but he didn't think Erik would behave like this towards him. He placed a tentative hand over Erik's broad chest. He looked up and he could see the imploring in Erik's eyes, begging for his reciprocation. However, despite appearing reluctant, the moment Erik said that he loved him, it was more than enough to melt Charles' heart.
"You...love me?"Charles said, looking up at him shyly, blushing.
Erik kissed his forehead gently again."Yes, I do-"
Charles sighed and then he reached out to embrace Erik. He nuzzled his face against Erik's chest and mumbled his answer."I'll do it with you, if we win this thing-"
Erik grinned to himself, running his hand over Charles' hair; his expression lewdly expectant and full of triumph. Finally, Charles was giving in to him! A forced cough suddenly cut through their affectionate moment. It was someone standing at the doorway. They were too intent on each other that they did not sense that person's presence.
"Are you done with that Lovey-dovey shit yet? Your instructors and students want to speak with you guys-"Logan said, causing Charles and Erik to part as if they've gotten electrocuted. Charles' blush deepened, his expression fretful while Erik grumbled silently, annoyed that Logan had ruined their moment.
"Uh, did you overhear our conversation, Uncle?"Charles said in a small voice.
Charles looked up and to his dismay, he saw a vein pulsing in the middle of Logan's forehead, his uncle's expression sour. Of course he did! Charles wished the ground would just open wide and swallow him whole at this point. He was extremely mortified that Logan heard every single word. Oh my God he heard it! Let me just die!
Erik pretended to brush it off and led Charles by the wrist."Fine! Let's go, Charles-"
Before Erik and Charles could leave the room, Logan grabbed Erik's arm and glowered at the other."He's going straight home after this competition and I don't want to hear any crap from you! You're not porking my nephew!"
"Uncle Logan!"Charles wailed, embarrassed by what Logan had said. Erik didn't bother uttering a response. It pissed him off that Logan heard them, but it was just crappy timing. Right now, their priority is the competition. Erik hurriedly walked away from Logan, dragging Charles along until they got to the passageway where the others were waiting for them. It lifted Charles' spirits that they had everyone's support, especially the support of his mother and his sister, Raven. They were waiting there as well. Erik's parents sent word that they'll be coming in late.
As soon as Charles saw them, he rushed over to Raven and his mother and he hugged them."You're here!"
"Of course, Charles! We wouldn't miss it for the world!"His mother said, hugging him back fiercely. Charles could see the pride in her eyes and it encouraged him further to do his best in the competition. Raven looked him over appreciatively. Raven was the one who helped him with his outfit for the competition. With Charles' dark brown wavy hair slicked back, his cheeks glowing along his wide ecstatic smile, Charles will surely charm the pants off the people watching them. Charles looked really sharp in the black suit she picked for him, contrasting well with Erik's dark purple suit. The inspiration for their number involved Argentine Tango and the 1930's gangsters' style. It was a fitting choice. Raven reached out and placed an arm around Charles.
"We're so proud of you, Charles. No matter what happens, we just want you to know you're already a winner in our book!"Raven said with feeling. It actually left Charles speechless. He thanked her, hugging her one more time and then he turned to face the other students and his instructors. They gave him their well-wishes after Erik finished receiving his own greetings of good luck from them. It made Charles feel even better, knowing that everyone from the studio supported them. He and Erik would soon receive their instructions to assemble with the other competitors on the dance floor. He exchanged gazes with Erik and Erik grinned at him in a naughty way. A part of him wondered what Erik really thought of him. For one thing, Erik was initially strict with him and came off as cold and serious, but now he realized that Erik was actually a closet pervert on the inside, itching to get into his pants. He cringed when he recalled that moment in Erik's office.
It was only a few weeks until the Graymalkin Grand Prix competition. Despite all the buzz surrounding Lehnsherr studios, everyone in the studio kept Erik and Charles' secret, including keeping it from their new members. Alex Summers presently danced with a new student named Clarice Ferguson. Alex was initially skeptical of Clarice's heritage due to her last name. Ferguson is a Scottish name, but Clarice looked anything but Scottish. She looked like she is of an Asian descent. Nevertheless, he didn't dwell on it because all that mattered to him was that she's attractive and that she's new. Aside from Clarice, they have a new member named Bobby Drake, a former College Hockey player who currently danced with Rogue. Alex thought their partnership hilarious because they were the opposite of each other. Rogue was Emo and constantly chewed gum while Bobby Drake behaved like a squeaky-clean choir boy. Bobby was initially intimidated by Rogue, but he eventually came to like her. They also have a new male student named Janos Quested. Kitty was instantly smitten with him and abandoned Sean Cassidy as her dance partner, leaving Sean to partner up with Charles instead. Scott meanwhile, remained as Jean's partner, while the brother and sister tandem, Peter and Wanda Maximoff maintained their own partnership.
"Look at her! Ogling at her new partner! She dropped me just like that, for him! So unfair! I tell you, man, she's a fucking opportunist!"Sean muttered to Charles as he glowered at Kitty and Janos dancing Paso Doble, while he's stuck dancing Paso Doble with Charles. Charles giggled quietly, dancing the rapid steps of Paso Doble in time with Sean. Sean didn't have anything against dancing with Charles, knowing that the other dated their head instructor, Erik, but it incensed him that Kitty abandoned him just because she found Janos attractive.
"I'm sure a new female student will come around, Sean. The studio's becoming famous after all-"Charles soothed him, allowing Sean to be the lead in their dance routine.
"Yeah. I'm gonna get me a hot babe and I'm hoping she's not as flat-chested as Kitty!"Sean said in a loud and insolent voice, causing Kitty to give Sean a lethal glance. Sean gave her a smug grin and in return, Kitty gave him the finger, eliciting laughter from the other students, including Charles.
Azazel stepped forward and swatted Sean's head with a rolled-up newspaper, his expression stern."Shut up and focus on your steps, Sean. I don't want any name-calling in my class, got that?"
The others snickered at Sean's humiliation as Sean sheepishly nodded in response, but they all continued dancing anyway. After the dance lessons, the students took their break and sat upon the chairs lined up against the wall close to their break room. Jean and Rogue remained at the Ballet bars before the studio mirrors doing their stretches while Kitty gushed over Janos, commenting on his muscles and sitting along with the rest.
"The Grand Prix is coming up soon, guys! Any of you thought of buying new clothes for the event?"Wanda asked the rest as she sat next to her brother. Peter remained quiet this time, playing a game on his cell phone.
Scott and Alex both shook their heads.
"Nah. I'll just wear my old suit-"Sean said.
Wanda's eyes widened in indignation. "This is a big event! We're representing the studio. We have to look good like Erik and-"
Before she could say Charles' name, Peter slapped a panicked hand over her mouth, dropping his game. He gave her a warning stare and Wanda immediately understood. It embarrassed Wanda that she almost made a slip. Because of the arrival of the new students, the instructors as well as the current students decided to play along with Erik's wishes to keep things secret. For now, they couldn't trust the new students to keep Erik and Charles' secret just yet. Janos' ears actually pricked up, eagerly waiting for anyone to mention Erik's secret dance partner by name. It disappointed him that no one dared to say anything. Erik suddenly opened the door to his office studio and everyone froze up. The tenured students had already prompted the new ones on Erik's rigid personality so Clarice, Bobby and Janos were equally as scared as everyone else when Erik stared at them intently. Erik had on his black turtleneck again, with a brown leather jacket over it and he had on his usual tight gray pants. Charles brightened upon seeing Erik, his cheeks glowing, admiring Erik's handsome profile. Erik gave him a brief look and then he pretended to glare at everyone.
"I know this is on short notice, but I need someone to help me clear out some of the old paper work in the office. Moira's school was kind enough to donate one of their old computers to the studio, along with an All-in-one scanner and I need a volunteer. Any takers?"
Everyone groaned, wanting to avoid doing any chores, everyone except Charles. Charles zealously waved his hand up, eager for Erik to pick him. Erik grinned at Charles. Of course, he expected Charles to offer up his assistance. Erik gestured for Charles to come over. Charles entered the room and then Erik informed everyone not to interfere, announcing that he will lock the door to avoid any disruption in the sorting process. The new students didn't think much about it, but everyone else exchanged knowing looks. The new students had seen the state of the office and they knew Charles got a raw deal. They found his enthusiasm quite odd, though. As soon as Erik locked the door, Charles could see that the paperwork was already half-sorted. Erik placed a finger over his lips and smiled at him conspiratorially.
"I've been sorting since last night. Let's practice, Charles-"
Charles chuckled at Erik's ingenuity and got into position with him. Erik played an assortment of ballroom dance music whenever they practiced secretly, because during the actual competition, their ability to dance in rhythm will be part of the judging factor, regardless of what music played out. They only got better each time they practiced, matching each other's movements. Charles could basically dance Erik's acrobatic dance moves even in his sleep. They switched it up between Argentine Tango, Paso Doble, Rumba and Erik's dance steps. Despite Erik's objection, Charles called Erik's dance the 'Lehnsherr moves', advising the other that they had to call the steps something. The steps required the lead to bend down and swing the partner overhead, then they would do turns and arm extensions without breaking the synchronicity of their steps. Erik's steps also involved an entire body spin, with the lead holding the partners legs and spinning the other in midair. This was the difficult part; the move was somewhat dangerous because one false move and Charles might break his neck or his back if he fell. It was a good thing that they have more leg room this time. Still, it was a cramped space. They finished their dance with Erik holding Charles against his body. They were sweating slightly, feeling each other's body heat rising. Charles' chest actually heaved with his exertions, but he turned to face Erik, smiling triumphantly.
Erik grinned back."It's official. That trophy's as good as ours!"
Charles chuckled at Erik's confidence."You really think so?"
"I don't just think so, I know so!"Erik rapped back. He patted Charles' shoulder, but then his hand suddenly slowed down the motions, turning into a seductive caress and then Erik's grin widened in a lewd manner. Charles turned and he caught Erik's expression. Seeing that look on Erik's face suddenly made Charles uneasy. Erik spoke in a low voice.
"Come to think of it...I remember telling you it doesn't matter if we win or not. Regardless of the outcome, I think I want something else as a reward for my efforts-"
"W-What?"Charles said, swallowing thickly.
"You-"Erik said huskily, embracing Charles to himself, kissing the back of his head. Charles pretended to scoff, but he was actually nervous on what Erik might do.
"No! Stop fucking around, Erik!"Charles said, laughing uneasily, but Erik began to lick his earlobe; he could feel Erik's body heat rising up in a different way, like some sensual heat rose from his pores, reaching Charles' senses. Charles felt something hard down below, pressing at his backside and he knew exactly what it was. In a state of panic, he pulled away and rushed for the door, surprising the students outside when he flung the door open. They gaped after him as he briskly walked towards the shower room to take a bath. He felt so hot and flustered due to Erik's nearness. He was starting to take off his shirt when Erik suddenly entered the locker area, causing Charles to start up in shock. Erik reached for his wrist because Charles looked like he was going to run away again.
"Hey! If you didn't want to you just had to say no!"
Charles broke away from him, breathing harshly."I did tell you no, you idiot!"
Erik gave him an embarrassed, lopsided grin."I just wanted to make out and maybe...get you a little naked-"
"See? I knew it!"Charles said accusingly and pointed in the direction of the dance area."There are students in the dance studio! What if we can't help ourselves and they hear us moaning?"
"Ok, fine. We'll do it when they aren't around-"
Charles slapped a hand over his eyes."No, Erik! God, you are behaving like a total horndog! Couldn't you just wait until I'm ready for it?"
He looked up and saw the dejected expression on Erik's face and he realized he was acting like a total ass for saying what he had said. It was as if he was rejecting Erik's affections. He suddenly went to Erik and held his hands. Erik flung him a quick glance and then he quickly looked away again.
"Don't be like that. If we are going to do it, I wanted to be ready, that's all-"
"Ok. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be so pushy-"
Charles pecked a kiss upon his cheek."Good. Now get back there before people start thinking crazy things about us-"
"I don't care what they say or think about us. I'm proud of us. I'm proud of you-"
"Thank God for that!"Charles said, chuckling over the matter now. His smile fell though when he saw Erik's bright expression dissolving into an obscene eagerness. Something in Erik's smile just disturbed him.
What the hell have I gotten myself into?
Erik and Azazel closed the studio for the day while the students all trooped out of the door. Usually, Charles would stay to practice with Erik but this time, Wanda and Rogue encouraged him to join their group while they purchased clothes for the competition. Since the others wouldn't be dancing in the competition, they opted to buy regular suits for the boys and cocktail or party dresses for the girls. Lately, Charles was beginning to develop a close friendship with the other students. They invited him whenever they went out to eat or do things unrelated to dancing, finally earning their acceptance. Erik allowed him to leave and have a good time with the other students. Charles was opening himself up over to new things and he didn't want to be in the way of Charles' progression. Charles nodded towards Erik in acknowledgement before he left, carefully hiding it from the new students.
"Aren't you going to practice with him today?"Azazel asked as he mopped the floor with Erik. Erik stopped for a moment to look over at the other.
"We already practiced in the office, although it is kinda cramped to practice in such a small area. You know we're trying to keep things secret from the new students for now, not to mention I'm trying to hide this from Emma. She's been lurking around our studio. She thinks I don't see her, but I do-"
"She's trying to find out who your mystery partner is-"
Erik nodded grimly. He knew she was up to something, but he didn't want Emma catching him off guard. Azazel gave him a lazy smile.
"I think I have a solution to your problem."
Erik looked over at Azazel, eyes going wide."What?"
Azazel continued to mop the floor, sloshing soapy water about."You know my Uncle who owns the auto repair shop where I work, right? The top part of the shop was formerly a dance studio. My Uncle's intending to rent it out, but it's in need of some repair, so it will take some time before he lets it out. We just recently cleaned it. Used to be our stock room. Lots of open space. Old brickwork with a black and white tiled floor-"
Erik clapped Azazel on the back, ecstatic to hear this news."You sure about this?"
Azazel nodded, grinning."Yep. Why don't you both use it? You can meet there secretly. I'll let my Uncle know. He'll understand. I cover the night shift anyway, so I can let you guys come in and by the way-"
He suddenly looked about to make sure no one was in earshot and whispered in Erik's ear."There's a bedroom in there. In case, you know, you want to do some other dancing, like the one you do under the sheets. Just clean up after-"
"What the fuck, Azazel!"Erik said, shocked out of his wits at Azazel's suggestion, although he did want to have sex with Charles really badly.
Azazel shrugged, his grin becoming wide."It's written on both your faces. You want him, he wants you. It's so obvious-"
"It is?"Erik said, baffled.
Azazel just winked at him and then he began to whistle as he continued to mop the floor, leaving Erik to stand there stupidly for a while before Erik came to his senses to continue his chores with Azazel.
"They announced your names! You better head on to the ballroom!"Moira said and Erik and Charles took their Fedoras from Raven, who assisted them in their costume. Charles' knees shook slightly and he felt light-headed as he followed Erik. The other instructors and students headed towards their seats to watch the event. In a moment, Ororo distributed the ballots that everyone must fill out to vote for Erik and Charles and besides that, they now have the added votes of the studio's new students. Even though they only received knowledge of Erik and Charles' partnership that day, that didn't prevent them from lending their support. Scott was already filling out his ballot and then he turned to face Hank McCoy.
"Mr McCoy, who's going to collect these ballots?"
"Some ushers will come around to collect it from us, deliver it to the coordinators and then they will tally the votes-"
"Cool! Well we all know my vote's already for Erik and Charles-"Scott said, waving the ballot about.
Hank gave him a wry smile, filling out his own ballot before the lights dimmed down. Rogue suddenly turned to look about, her brow furrowed.
"Where's Peter and Wanda? They're supposed to sit next to me. The competition is about to start-"She said.
"Peter's probably recharging his power bank, playing his stupid games and Wanda went with him-"Kitty said, seated next to Janos and gazing at him in adoration, while Janos struggled to hide the discomfort he felt because of her attentiveness towards him.
"Yeah, it's starting alright-"Alex said and sure enough, the lights were suddenly dimmed down and the spotlights pointed on to the ballroom itself, the competitors waiting for the music to play. The people who excitedly waited to see Erik's partner were immediately taken aback when they realized that his partner...was a man. Could this be the mystery dancer that captivated the audience during the Performance Showcase? That's just impossible! The silhouette of the dancer dancing against the backdrop of white fabric at the showcase performed with grace and poise, qualities that only a female competitor giving a caliber performance could accomplish. It can't be this relatively unknown young man with the fair cheeks and the frightened, wide blue eyes. Charles turned to look towards his family, who received VIP seating close to the dance floor to watch him and Erik. His Uncle Logan gave him one nod of acknowledgement along with a proud smile. His mother sent him a flying kiss, her eyes glimmering with both pride and joy to see her son in the limelight. Raven waved towards him enthusiastically. He then turned his eyes on to his Instructors and fellow students and he saw that they were definitely rooting for him. Charles exhaled, getting into position next to Erik. Erik gave his hand one more reassuring squeeze and then the announcer began to speak.
At this instant, Peter was charging his phone in one of the empty dressing rooms. He had a hard time finding an open outlet he could use and wandered around until he found one in an unlocked room. He used his sister as a lookout while he charged his phone beside a dressing table, sitting on the floor to hide. Wanda sat next to him, grumbling and complaining.
"Peter! The competition's about to start! I don't want to miss Erik and Charles' performance! Can't you just do this later?"
"Wait up! I'm almost done!"
"Shh! Someone's coming!"
Peter suddenly shut his phone down and hid in that niche beside the dressing table, sidling next to his sister. Whoever it was, that person entered the room briefly, picking a package up and was speaking to someone else on a phone.
"Like I said, Shaw. I got your ballots here! I'm going to mix it in with the other votes and no one will suspect a thing! You'll be the winner by a landslide!"
Both Peter and Wanda turned to look at each other in shock. No mistaking that voice. It was Emma Frost and from what it sounds like, she and Shaw planned on cheating by putting in fake ballots for Shaw. Emma didn't see them and rushed off to distribute the fake votes.
"Oh my God, Peter! Shaw's going to scam the other performers!"
"We gotta tell everyone about this! Come on! Let's go!"
Wanda and Peter ran as fast as they could back to the seats, looking for Ororo and Azazel. When they saw their instructors, they informed everyone of what Shaw and Emma were up to.
"That motherfucking cheat!"Azazel hissed angrily. He'd always had this notion that Shaw's been cheating all this time. It was no wonder Erik didn't ever win any of his previous competitions. He was quite sure Shaw had something to do with those incidents as well. He grimly gestured for everyone to come closer to him.
"Listen, I have a plan-"
Surprisingly enough, even though the people were initially skeptical of Erik and Charles' performance, they became riveted to these two male dancers. They haven't seen anything quite like Erik and Charles' dancing. They were particularly drawn to the connection between the two dancers, not to mention the amazing dance number the two performed. It was tango and yet, it wasn't. With every change of the music, they stayed true to the story they seem to be telling with each movement and each step. They both exuded masculinity and a dangerous sensuality and above all, they were so in sync that even a nuanced movement seemed charged; captivating. They both threw their Fedoras away, mimicking the beginnings of a brawl, using Erik's steps. The audience clapped their way. Clearly, they were the crowd favorite. There's no denying it. When Erik threw Charles overhead, the audience actually gasped in shock only to sigh in relief when Charles harmlessly landed on his feet and matched Erik's stance without breaking a step.
Charles found his anxieties disappearing when he focused on nothing else but Erik. He could hear the crowd's applause, however it all seemed so inconsequential to him now. The only thing that mattered now was the dance and Erik. They danced to some unfamiliar tunes, but with Erik leading him, Charles found himself maintaining their usual rhythm and synchronicity, regardless of the slight change in their stances due to the shifting music. He faintly heard the crowd's roaring cheer and whistles when he and Erik brought out their daggers and they began to dance to some slow tune, with Erik's eyes glinting warmly at him. A hush suddenly fell over the crowd, hypnotically drawn to the slow steps and the sexual cadences that could only be Tango; knives poised at each other's throats; the ritualistic and slow circling of two gangsters locked in battle, ready for the inevitable knife fight. Their knives switched from one hand to another expertly as they continued to circle menacingly. When the music quickened, so did their movements.
The other dancers seemed to pale in comparison to them even though there were several standout dancers as well. Shaw and Angel danced close to Erik and his male partner and Shaw couldn’t hide the hatred in his expression as he kept throwing Charles and Erik cutting glances. Erik and Charles were beating them. Shaw was so focused on them that he failed to see another dancing pair, wearing matching silver and purple outfits dancing their way and they collided with Shaw’s arm because he failed to move out of the way. Shaw pushed them roughly away, causing them to topple backwards and Angel could only look on in dismay at Shaw’s behavior. Angel grew conscious of the cameras pointed at them. She winced when she heard one of the event commentators criticizing Shaw for his ‘gross lack of dance etiquette and unsportsmanlike conduct’. She actually wanted the dancing to be over soon so that she could just leave.
Meanwhile, Emma flirted with the ballot collectors to get them to do her bidding. She handed them the ballots with the fake names and they unwittingly added it with the regular ballots. The ushers who functioned as ballot collectors were mostly male, so it was easy for Emma to manipulate them. However, she did not notice that Erik’s students followed her as she made her rounds. Because Erik's students watched her every move, it prevented them from fully seeing Erik and Charles' stellar performance. Jean wistfully gazed out at the ballroom, taking a brief glimpse of the dancers in their colorful, sequined outfits, feather-lined silhouettes and the swishing and swirling of tulle and taffeta. She envied their confidence, their flair and self-assured moves as they danced on. She hoped that one day she could enter similar competitions to represent Lehnsherr studios.
“What are you doing standing there, Jean? Come on!”Scott called her over and she ran over to him. They had to get back to Hank McCoy and hand him their ‘proof’. Janos and Kitty were the last to return to their seats.
“Did you get it?”Hank said as he looked up at them.
“Here it is!"Janos said and Hank uncharacteristically gave them a wicked grin.
The competition was coming to a close and Charles didn't even care anymore. He was having the time of his life, dancing with Erik in that ballroom. While it is true that the female dancers were all so beguiling and attractive, he and Erik accomplished the feat of driving the audience wild for them, regardless if they were the only male pairing in the competition. Charles gave Erik his most winning smile, his fears long gone from him. They finished their dance, back to circling each other slowly, changing their usual routine and then the music stopped, but they did not stop circling and staring at each other intently. They didn't even hear the din of the clapping and cheering; they were that focused on each other. Erik knew they both gave their all on the dance floor, but he didn't say anything because it didn't matter anymore. They accomplished what they came to do and the sense of fulfillment it gave him was the best feeling in the world. Erik eventually noticed that the other dancers were leaving the dance floor.
He suddenly reached for Charles' wrist to lead him away."Let's head back to the others. Maybe my parents are up there with them-"
Charles nodded in agreement and they headed in the general location of their group's seating, occasionally getting sidetracked due to people stopping them to greet and praise them. When they finally got to their seats, Azazel quietly informed Erik of Shaw and Emma's nefarious plans.
"I knew it!"Erik growled.
"Don't worry. We've got something on them. Hank's handing it over to the event coordinators as we speak-"Armando said smugly. Erik looked towards him, curious over what they've done. Erik's parents saw his performance with Charles and he went to them and hugged them both, giving them a huge grin.
"I'm proud of you, son!"Jakob murmured into his shoulder as they hugged.
"Thanks, dad! I'd like you to meet my partner. His name is Charles Xavier-"
Charles timidly shook both of Erik's parents' hands and it surprised Charles when Edie, Erik's mother hugged him instead.
"You were amazing back there! I'm sure your parents are very proud of you!"
"Thank you, Mrs Lehnsherr-"
Before they could launch into any further conversation, one of the event coordinators called for everyone's attention."Ladies and Gentlemen, we have finished tallying the votes, but before we announce the winners, may we have Sebastian Shaw and partner come over to the coordinator's table please-"
Shaw, feeling extremely smug and full of himself, strutted down the aisles with Angel trailing after him. He thought the coordinators were asking for him to step forward to announce him as the winner. Shaw stopped before their table, his glittering smile as spangly as his glitter-speckled electric blue shirt. However, Angel's face fell the moment she saw the coordinators glowering at them. Shaw was still oblivious of the aura of displeasure emanating from the group.
"Mr Sebastian Shaw-"
Shaw stepped forward, chest proudly puffed up. He chuckled and attempted to make some conversation."Yes, I've done it again! You must be wondering, how do I always manage to do that? I'm just that good, I guess-"
The bespectacled judge didn't even bother to hide his distaste for Shaw."You Sir, are disqualified."
Angel slapped a hand over her eyes, wincing. Shaw still had his smile on, but then it slowly decayed to bewilderment when realization dawned upon him.
"What did you say?"
"You heard me. You are disqualified! How dare you make a mockery of our event by having your colleague place fake votes in! I shall see to it that you are banned from participating in any dance events or competitions. Every dance association will know about your dishonesty!"
Shaw couldn't believe it. They found out about the fake ballots, but how? One of the coordinators turned around a laptop and it showed videos of Emma distributing the fake ballots. Erik's students took a video of Emma using their cell phones and Hank compiled it on to his laptop to show the judges. Just like that, Shaw lost it. He slapped his hands upon their table and pointed at the screen.
"Wait! This is all a misunderstanding! I would never do something like this! Why don't you ban her? She's the one placing those votes in! Not me!"
To Shaw's dismay, the coordinators were not taken in by his words. In desperation, Shaw suddenly grabbed the lapels of the man who spoke to him.
"I'm not at fault here! I'm innocent!"
The balding man pushed Shaw's hands away with deliberate slowness."Don't take us for fools, Mr Shaw. We all know Ms Frost is an associate of yours. Don't worry. Both of you will now be on a blacklist. You'll never dance in our competitions again!"
Shaw grasped the bald man's collar once more."No! You can't do this to me! I'm Sebastian Shaw! I'm a world-class dancer, you balding putz!"
The bald man nodded towards his security personnel and they began to drag a struggling and screaming Shaw away, leaving the other competitors and the audience baffled. Angel had already walked off, abandoning Shaw. Emma knew the game was up and was nowhere to be found. They didn't hear the conversation at the judge's table, but Azazel and Ororo smiled at each other triumphantly. Finally, Shaw got what he deserved. The bald man spoke for his colleagues.
"My apologies to everyone for this slight disruption in our program. Apparently, Sebastian Shaw attempted to do something underhanded to our competitors. Rest assured, he won't be doing such things in our competitions any longer-"
A murmur went through the crown initially, shocked upon gaining knowledge of Shaw's actions and then the audience all applauded and cheered after that. The spokesman cleared his throat and asked for everyone's silence. As soon as he made his request, the crowd grew hushed and expectant, the competitors feeling pretty much the same. Charles reached for Erik's hand and squeeze it tightly. The silence deepened, with everyone in the room eagerly awaiting the announcement. The spokesman gave the crowd a beatific smile, lifting the piece of paper to read the names of the winning pair.
"The winner, of the Graymalkin Grand Prix Ballroom Championship is...Erik Lehnsherr and his partner, Charles Xavier!"
The crowd practically roared with approval upon hearing the announcement. Erik's group jumped up from their chairs, clapping ecstatically and hugging each other over their studio's victory while Erik and Charles stared at each other for a few seconds, stunned. Although Erik undoubtedly knew that he and Charles would be the victors, hearing their names announced out loud still somehow surprised the hell out of him. He reached for Charles and hugged him tightly and then everyone from their group was hugging them and congratulating them. Erik and Charles accepted their award before a wildly cheering crowd and afterwards, everyone attended the after-event party held within the venue, except the disqualified participants. Charles was still reeling from his win and he felt light-headed and giddy with delight. He couldn't seem to stop smiling. People he didn't even know kept coming up to him to congratulate him and shake his hand. The party came to life when the crowd and the dancers took to the dance floor to enjoy an evening of...what else? Dancing. Ororo danced with Logan while the studio's students formed a circle and danced as a group. Hank led Raven into a dance while Armando danced with Charles' mom. Charles of course, danced with Erik, but he was slightly conscious of Erik's parents close by. They didn't know about Erik and Charles' relationship yet.
"Charles, we've already won, but you don't seem happy at all-"Erik teased him.
With Erik reminding him of their win, Charles started in shock when he realized what Erik's words implied. Charles gave him a nervous smile."Your parents. They don't know about us and I'm-"
Erik drew close to whisper in his ear."If you're that conscious of my parents, maybe you'd like to dance with me someplace else-"
Charles blushed deeply as his heart began to race. Was he really going to go along with this? A deal was a deal after all and in his heart, he'd always wanted to know what it would be like, making love to Erik.
Charles shivered when Erik suddenly grabbed his waist, leading him towards the exit without anyone noticing. Their group was too busy having a good time. Only when they stopped to rest did Logan notice their disappearance. He asked Charles' friends and the other instructors on Erik and Charles' whereabouts, practically bristling with rage that Erik pulled a fast one on him.
"ERIK!!!"Logan hollered so loudly that everyone stopped dancing, looking towards him in bewilderment and shock.
A mix of emotions ran through Charles as he and Erik climbed up the steps of their secret dance studio, the one located above the repair shop that belonged to Azazel's uncle. Previously, they've been practicing in this space for the span of two weeks prior to the competition. Charles' steps resounded upon the black and white tiled floor as he walked towards the center of the dance floor while Erik went around to turn the lights on and to close the wood-paneled windows. Erik gave Charles a meaningful stare as he slowly took his suit coat off, placing it upon a tattered sofa pressed up against the brick wall. Erik then walked towards Charles and seductively ran his hands over Charles' shoulders. Charles shivered again.
"Let me help you with your coat-"Erik whispered huskily against his cheek. Charles felt his entire body run hot, just with Erik's touch, his face felt equally as feverish as Erik unbuttoned his coat for him and with deliberate slowness, removing it from Charles' body. Erik threw the coat towards the sofa and then he stood back to admire Charles appearance. Erik pulled at Charles' suspenders playfully. Seeing Charles wearing them really turned him on. His hand slowly slid towards the middle of Charles' back and then he pressed his face against the side of Charles' head.
"May I have this dance, Charles?"Erik murmured.
Blushing yet again, Charles got into position with Erik, moving his left foot forward, while Erik moved his right leg back. They began the slow walking steps of Tango. They circled each other, conscious of each other's nearness. Erik began to kiss the side of Charles' face and he could feel the fever beneath Charles' skin. Charles sighed softly, listening for Erik's heartbeat. He slowly looked up and he could see the passion in Erik's eyes, the wanton yearning in them. Charles drew in a sharp breath when Erik moved forward quickly, grinding his hips provocatively against Charles' hips, letting Charles feel his hardness. Charles gasped at the feel of it. Erik reached out and pulled down Charles' suspenders. Charles allowed him to continue, too aroused by their proximity to stop what's about to happen. Erik's kisses trailed down from his face, thence to his neck and then Erik grabbed his cheek to give him a hungry kiss upon the lips, their tongue and teeth at play upon each other. Charles threw his arms around Erik's shoulders without breaking the kiss, tasting Erik, sucking eagerly for more.
"Oh!"Charles suddenly cried out when Erik lifted him up to carry him towards another door. He reached out to hold on to Erik's shoulder. Erik kissed his face repeatedly as he carried Charles towards a bed and laid him out on the cushions. Charles reached out to touch Erik's cheek.
"You horny bastard!"He said, giggling quietly.
"I'm sorry, Charles. I haven't had sex in a long while and it's been an agony, having you so close and-"
Charles gently placed a finger over his lips."It's ok. I agreed to this and besides, I've always wanted to know how it would be like with you-"
Relieved, Erik began to rain kisses upon Charles cheeks and his lips. Charles laughed into the kisses, happy beyond words that everything was finally going his way. He earned everyone's respect, won the competition with Erik and now he's about to do it with the man he loves. At some point, they had both removed their shirts, frantically making out and then Charles suddenly pulled back, remembering something.
"Erik, Uncle Logan!"Charles cried out, alarmed.
Erik began to laugh, running his fingers affectionately upon Charles' forehead."Charles, this is our moment together. Don't worry about your tightwad of an uncle for now-"
Erik gazed at Charles, admiring his pale, freckled skin and his slight, muscled body. He reached out to run his palm upon Charles' skin, silky and soft beneath his fingers. He always fantasized of the day he could touch Charles like this. His fingers grazed one of Charles' nipples, causing Charles to start up in shock. Erik grinned wickedly. Oh, so Charles is sensitive here, is he? He bent down and he began to lick and kiss Charles' nipples, one and then the other, causing Charles' shoulders to hitch up in arousal. He threw his head back as he savored Erik's pleasuring. Straddled atop him, Erik continued to grind himself up against Charles as he kissed and licked Charles' nipples until it tautened beneath his lips. He tested Charles' sensitivity by nibbling at the nub of sensitive flesh at the tip of Charles' nipple causing Charles' back to arch up, thighs trembling as he tried to push Erik away.
"No biting, please-"Charles moaned.
Erik ignored the request and he began to nibble harder, causing Charles to howl and restlessly writhe upon the bed. In one quick motion, Erik unbuttoned Charles' pants, pushing it down and then he quickly unbuttoned his own pants. He rubbed himself seductively against Charles, hips circling as if in a dance. Erik licked his lips and then he pounced forward. Then it begins; the gnashing kisses, eager hands parting Charles' thighs. Charles had thrown his arms out in abandon, surrendering himself to Erik. He couldn't stop biting his lower lip as Erik kept on pleasuring him and then he groaned, more in surprise than pleasure when Erik's fingers touched his quivering hole and slid in, seeking and probing. It surprised him because Erik's fingers were wet. He rolled his head about the pillow and only then did he notice Erik had a tube of lube close by. Charles blushed furiously, cheeks burning in mortification. This was his first time so he felt somewhat squeamish about delving into some dirty sex. Erik stopped for a moment.
"It's alright, Charles. Just relax-"Erik soothed him.
Charles exhaled a trembling breath, nodding to himself and then he shifted into a comfortable position to accommodate Erik. Erik continued to prod Charles with his fingers until he touched that sensitive barrier of flesh within. Charles' heavy-lidded eyes flew open and he uttered some nonsensical cry as Erik kept at it, stretching and preparing Charles.
"Oh God!"Charles moaned in a trembling voice because Erik suddenly grabbed his cock and began to give him a hand job, as well as fucking Charles with his fingers. Erik made Charles come and Charles' back arched up as his come spilled on to his belly. Breathless, Charles stared down at his glistening pinkish cock, Erik's hand loosely holding it and then Erik moved to straddle him again. Charles suffered a moment of hesitation, but he took one look at Erik's handsome face and like on the dance floor, his fears slipped away from him. Erik positioned his cock right at Charles' yielding hole and entered him slowly. Charles winced, holding on tightly to Erik until Erik got himself all the way in. Erik began the motions, the slow undulation and then the quickening surge, causing the bed to thump and rattle violently. At first, Charles only felt pain and then it all melted into pleasure as Erik kept at it. Charles couldn't believe how good it felt. He couldn't stop rocking his hips up for more, tightening his legs around Erik's waist. The third time around, they came together and it was the sweetest thing to Charles, to feel Erik loving him like this. They settled into bed, facing each other and Erik gave Charles a lazy smile, about ready to go to sleep. Charles felt too excited to go to sleep. He knew that when tomorrow comes, Lehnsherr studios will be teeming with visitors and new opportunities will open up for them. There will be new students, international competitions and there will be a demand for the studio’s talents.
"Erik?"
"Hmmm?"
"I love you-"Charles said with feeling.
Erik's drooping eyes shot open at that, his expression softening."You love me?"
Charles sighed contentedly and reached out to wrap his arms around Erik's neck."I do!"
"Well, I think you'll take that back once we get to Italy for our first international competition. We'll have to work on some new moves and you'll be spending so much time with me that you'll grow sick of me-"
"No I won't!"Charles pouted.
Erik laughed at that and wrapped his arms around Charles' naked waist, nuzzling his face into Charles' hair. He silently thanked the circumstances that drove him to pick Charles as his partner and he knew that from here on, no matter how bad things turn out, as long as he had Charles by his side, everything will be alright.
"Did you hear that?"Charles suddenly said, pulling back.
"Hear what?"
"I think...its Uncle Logan!"Charles said, his eyes widening in disbelief.
It was his Uncle Logan alright and he is running down the streets outside, calling for Erik and Charles' name. He sounded like a raging bull as he roared for Erik and Charles to show themselves.
"What the hell?"Erik muttered in exasperation.
Charles groaned and slapped a hand over his eyes."Jesus, he just won't quit! He's embarrassing me!"
Erik reached for Charles and embraced him."You wanna tune him out, Charles?"
"How?"
Erik gave him a mischievous grin."Oh, I can think of a few things-"
Charles giggled at first and then he began to moan ecstatically as Erik made love to him again and sure enough, it tuned Logan out.