"Uh, I'm Wyatt. Wyatt Wilkins," he stammered, momentarily taken aback by her sheer beauty, which seemed almost ethereal amidst the crowd of ordinary party-goers.
"Emma Frost. A pleasure," she replied, her smile widening.
Did she just say… Emma Frost? Wyatt thought. As in the White Queen, Emma Frost! She's one of the reasons why my hearing with the government was held on such an open platform. She was the one who pushed the government with her public platform to have it live on TV.
"Wyatt Wilkins… what an interesting name. Now tell me, where did you learn such swift moves? You wouldn't happen to be a student at this school, would you?" Emma asked, crossing her arms, inadvertently pushing up her chest.
"No, I'm not a student. I'm here because a friend invited me," Wyatt said as he kept eye contact with Emma, who chuckled in amusement.
"Really? I find that hard to believe. I was sure that someone with your skill set would be enrolled here," Emma said, her words measured and calculated.
"…What I did wasn't anything special, really," Wyatt said.
Suddenly, an odd, almost invasive sensation ran through Wyatt's mind.
What is that? Wyatt thought as he felt a prodding sensation in his head. He realized then that Emma was attempting to peer into his mind. If I remember correctly, she's as powerful a telepath as Charles. Maybe even stronger. No matter how grateful I am to her, I can't let her into my head.
Fortunately for Wyatt, the waiter who had slipped quickly stood up and profusely apologized. Emma turned to the man with an annoyed frown and shooed him away. Embarrassed, the waiter apologized once more and promptly left.
"Now then, where were… we?" Emma said, turning to Wyatt, only to find him gone.
She looked around the room and saw no sign of the young man. A slight frown creased her beautiful face as she thought back to Wyatt's remarkable speed and movement.
Could he have some form of defense within his mind? Emma wondered. Even if he does, why couldn't I look into his mind? It was as if a steel wall had risen around his thoughts, protecting his secrets from me. That shouldn't be possible.
Regardless of her failure to look into Wyatt's mind, Emma smiled in victory as she already had what she wanted. With her abilities, it was incredibly easy to subtly invade the minds of the young students attending the Ball. Even as she carefully and subtly read their minds, while making sure to avoid Jean's, she found what she was after.
The identity of Atomic.
So that was Atomic… Wyatt Wilkins. He's a bit younger than I expected. Still... Emma thought with a greedy smile. I want him.
••o••o••o••
As the night unfolded, Wyatt found himself thoroughly enjoying the evening alongside Kitty and the rest of their friends.
The lively atmosphere was filled with laughter and music, and each moment seemed to sparkle with possibility.
Whether they were twirling on the dance floor, sharing a delicious meal, or clinking glasses filled with colorful nonalcoholic drinks, the young adults seamlessly blended into the elegance of the high-class event that surrounded them.
"Oof! Sorry!" Kurt exclaimed as he stumbled across the dance floor, inadvertently stepping on the polished shoes of a stout, elegantly-dressed woman.
He cast an apologetic look her way as he fumbled to regain his balance while he and Amanda continued their awkward but endearing dance attempt. "Two left feet!" he joked, eliciting a sympathetic chuckle from Amanda, who found his clumsiness charming.
Meanwhile, Kitty, radiant in her evening attire, led Wyatt back to their table for a moment of respite.As they settled in side by side, a palpable nervous energy enveloped them.
While their earlier escapades had been filled with carefree conversation and playful banter, the sudden intimacy of their solitude created a sense of uncertainty about what would come next.
Kitty nervously twirled a strand of her hair around her finger, glancing at Wyatt, her heart racing as she gauged his expression. Just then, their eyes met in a moment charged with unspoken thoughts, and an understanding passed between them. Both were wrestling with the same feeling, a mix of excitement and hesitation, and they couldn't help but laugh softly at the serendipity of it all.
"Look at us," Kitty said with a small laugh. "We're acting like children."
"Yeah, we're being ridiculous," Wyatt smiled. "We've been through crazy situations normal teenagers can only imagine, and we're struggling to talk about… well, us."
"Yeah, us...Wyatt. What are we?" Kitty whispered, her heart thumping against her chest. "Are we friends or are we more? Do you… want to be more?"
Wyatt turned to Kitty, her glistening brown eyes staring back at him, heavy with emotion.
"Ever since I discovered my abilities, my life has been a constant series of fights, struggles, and challenges. For the past two years, I have been known as Atomic, doing my best to help those in need," Wyatt said softly. "I enjoy what I do, and I truly believe that my power is meant for helping others. However, if that's all I ever do, I risk losing my identity and becoming just Atomic. I… don't want that."
Kitty listened attentively without interrupting. She understood that Wyatt wasn't downplaying her feelings; he was simply trying to make sense of his own.
"Despite my responsibilities and duties, I want to take the time to just be Wyatt sometimes. And to be… with someone special," Wyatt gently intertwined his fingers with Kitty's, causing her cheeks to flush. "You've always been there for me, from the very beginning. You reached out to me, invited me to spend time with you and everyone else, and supported me when it would have been easy not to. While I'm still unsure about how things will turn out... I want to give this a try. Give us a try."
Kitty's smile was breathtaking. Without warning, she moved in and hugged Wyatt tightly, and after a moment, he returned the hug with a smile of his own.
"You know, that was a really beautiful way of saying if I'd be your girlfriend," Kitty said as she pulled away.
"Was it? I thought it was a bit long-winded and dramatic," Wyatt rubbed the back of his head, a little embarrassed at what he had said. He was too caught up in the moment to stop himself from spilling his thoughts and feelings out. "So… was that a yes?"
"Of course, Wyatt. I'd love to be your girlfriend," Kitty said and leaned in to give Wyatt a quick peck on his cheek. "I do expect you to take me out to an official first date. While nice, this Ball doesn't count."
Wyatt nodded, a warm smile spreading across his face as he and Kitty intertwined their fingers, their hands resting comfortably on the table.
They watched the swirling mass of twirling gowns and tuxedos in the grand ballroom, the flickering candlelight reflecting off the polished floor as couples danced and mingled, laughter and music filling the air.
As they continued to people watch, Kitty made small circles on Wyatt's hand. The two were happy to share a moment alone—until Amanda, visibly frazzled and flushed from the hours of dancing, brought Kurt over to their table.
"Okay, Kurt. I need a break," Amanda declared, sinking into a seat with a weary sigh, her cheeks a striking shade of crimson.
"What? But I've barely gotten my groove on! What was the point of spending all those hours practicing the waltz if I wasn't going to impress everyone?" Kurt exclaimed, his restlessness evident as he bounced slightly in his seat, energy radiating from him.
His gaze flickered across the room and landed on Kitty, who was watching with a playful smile. Spotting his two friends holding hands, he beamed at them before his expression shifted to one of mock formality.
"My dear sir, may perchance have the honor of sharing a dance with your lady? It would be my utmost privilege," Kurt said, his voice taking on an exaggerated English accent that made Kitty giggle. Amanda glanced at her, her exhaustion melting momentarily away, and offered a nod of agreement.
Wyatt, unable to suppress a chuckle at Kurt's antics, looked at Kitty.
"If the lady wishes it, very well," Wyatt said, giving Kitty's hand one last tender squeeze before she gracefully rose from her seat, a lightness in her step as she moved toward the dance floor, Kurt following eagerly.
"I don't know where he gets all that energy, but Kurt sure can dance," Amanda remarked, leaning on the table, her eyes following the two as they joined the throng of dancers. A teasing smile tugged at her lips as she turned to Wyatt. "So, is it safe to assume you and Kitty are now an item?"
"Yeah, we are," Wyatt said as he leaned back in his chair.
"Aw, I'm so happy for you two!" Amanda said with a happy smile before standing to her feet, albeit slowly. "I'm going to grab a drink. I'm beyond parched! Do you want anything?"
"No, thank you. I'm fine," Wyatt replied.
Amanda nodded and walked away to the refreshments bar, leaving Wyatt all alone.
That was until a figure walked up behind him.
"Well… this dance is as boring as I thought," Wanda said with a hand on her hip.
Wyatt, having already sensed her approach, turned around and was momentarily mesmerized by the sight before him.
Wanda stood confidently in a striking, fiery red sheath dress made of pleated metallic satin, which hugged her figure perfectly and shimmered under the warm glow of the chandeliers. The fabric caught the light, reflecting hues of orange and gold, adding to her radiant presence. She completed her look with a pair of elegant crimson heels that accented her long legs, each step exuding grace and poise.
Her vibrant orange-red hair was styled into a sophisticated twisted bun, a few loose strands artfully framing her face, softening her features. At that moment, under the luminous chandeliers, Wanda appeared not just beautiful but almost otherworldly—a flaming angel amidst the crowd.
"Wanda… you came," Wyatt stammered, finally breaking free from his daze. His voice was barely above a whisper, filled with awe. "You look incredible."
Wanda's cheeks flushed with a rosy hue at the compliment, and she offered him a proud smile, her confidence unmistakable. "Of course I do. I'm me, remember?" she replied.
"I'm taking my compliment back."
"Sorry, no returns or refunds. Only in store credit," Wanda said as she looked Wyatt up and down. "Well, what do you know. You do clean up well. So… where's KitKat? You finally decide on what to do with her?" She said as she sat down in Kitty's chair.
"Yeah… I asked her to be my girlfriend," Wyatt replied, glancing over at Kitty and Kurt as they danced together on the floor. He completely missed the frown on Wanda's face. "I don't want to live with regret. I want to see where things go with Kitty."
"I see…" Wanda said, her voice steady. She took a deep breath and plastered a confident grin on her face. "Well, I'm happy for you and KitKat. But what are you doing here? Aren't people supposed to be dancing at these uptight events?"
Wyatt blinked as Wanda stood up and offered him a hand. "Let's dance. Or are you not allowed to dance with a friend now that you have a girlfriend?"
Releasing a slight chuckle, Wyatt stood to his full height and offered an arm to Wanda. "Of course not. Let's see if you can dance."
Slipping her arm around his, Wanda leaned in and grinned. "Of course I can. Who do you think I am?"
As they entered the vibrant dance floor, the two of them became enveloped by the pulsating rhythm of the song.
Their movements were smooth and fluid, as if they were weaving through the air together. Countless hours spent training had honed their skills and instilled in them a deep understanding of each other's speed and style.
This unparalleled synchronicity allowed them to perform with a grace that captivated everyone watching. Wanda's fiery crimson dress fluttered around her like flames, drawing the attention of all eyes in the venue.
As they twirled and glided across the polished floor, Wyatt and Wanda exchanged warm smiles, their eyes locking with an intensity that spoke volumes beyond words. It was as if the music had created a world just for them, where nothing else mattered but their connection and the joy of dancing.
As the song's final notes faded, a wave of applause erupted from the crowd, echoing their appreciation. Caught in the exhilaration of the moment, Wyatt and Wanda shared a knowing glance before offering a gracious bow to their audience, their hearts still racing from the thrill of the performance.
"I'm surprised you didn't step on my shoe," Wyatt whispered.
"Don't tempt me," Wanda said with a small playful glare.
As they prepared to return to their table, a thunderous series of slow claps erupted, echoing through the opulent room like a drumbeat. Each clap resonated deliberately, slicing through the air and drawing the attention of everyone in the vicinity.
Wyatt and Wanda exchanged glances and turned toward the source of the noise. They were momentarily frozen, taken aback by the sight of Erik, impeccably dressed in a crisp black and white tuxedo that seemed to command the room's focus.
"My, my. What a beautiful dance," Erik proclaimed, his voice dripping with mocking charm. "I expect nothing less."
"…Magneto," Wyatt retorted, his glare sharp enough to cut. Tension rippled through his body, shifting from casual to defensive in an instant.
"It's the Deadbeat," Wanda added, her voice laced with annoyance as she regarded her biological father. The bitterness in her words made Erik's confident smile falter for just a heartbeat.
Beside Erik stood Mystique, wearing an extravagant gown that cascaded elegantly around her. Her striking blue skin was boldly on display, shimmering under the soft glow of the room's chandeliers, making the scene all the more surreal.
"Wanda, my daughter, you look absolutely stunning tonight," Erik said, stepping forward with a relaxed confidence. His tailored tuxedo shimmered under the soft glow of the ambient lights.
Behind him stood a cadre of the Brotherhood of Mutants, each member impeccably dressed in formal attire, creating a striking visual contrast against the elegant surroundings.
The group included Lance, who wore a confident grin; Todd, nervously fiddling with his tie; Pietro, exuding an air of overconfidence; St. John, his eyes burning with intensity; Frederick, looking uncomfortable in his large yet snug tuxedo; Victor Creed, his expression a mix of annoyance and anger; Irene Adler, stroking her sleek hair; and Tabitha Smith, whose playful demeanor shone through even in a dress.
With a sudden flurry of motion, Scott, Jean, Evan, Rogue, Kurt, Jubilation, Samuel, and Kitty flocked to Wyatt and Wanda's side. The joyous laughter and carefree smiles that had adorned their faces throughout the evening had vanished, replaced by a tense seriousness.
"The Brotherhood," Scott spat, his voice low and edged with disdain as he stepped protectively in front of his friends. "How did you all manage to sneak in here?"
"Sneak in? Come on, Summers," Lance replied with a smirk, glancing over at Kitty, momentarily captivated by her elegance before shaking it off. "We were invited, after all."
"Yeah, right. That's a seriously lame excuse," Evan shot back, a sneer twisting his lips as he glared at the opposing group, tension crackling in the air between them.
"Scott, Evan, everyone, stand down," Charles commanded, his voice steady as he rolled over to position himself firmly between the two factions.
He surveyed the gathering crowd, their curious faces painted with a blend of confusion and concern, a tangible buzz of unease hanging in the air. "I invited them," Charles continued, his tone softening. "While we may have experienced our share of differences and challenges in the past, I believe that in light of the significant progress our world has made, now is the perfect opportunity for us to unite and forge a path toward a brighter future."
Erik stepped forward, a smile dancing across his lips, his presence both charismatic and unsettling. "As Charles has pointed out, it's time we put aside our grudges and embrace what lies ahead! Mutants and humans, joining forces as one!" His words hung in the air like a challenge, echoing amongst the spectators.
Wyatt watched, skepticism etched on his brow. The man standing before him, once a fierce adversary in a battle that had pushed him to his limits, seemed both changed and unrecognizable on the surface.
Even so, there was an air of deceit in Erik's casual declaration, and Wyatt couldn't shake the feeling that such a drastic transformation of heart was as unlikely as it was sudden.
"The deadbeat is up to something," Wanda whispered beside Wyatt, who nodded.
"Yeah, and whatever that is, it can't be good," Wyatt said as he and Erik locked eyes.