Slow Down

[Erika Conner (Bellefonte)]

Erika had some time to kill before picking up her son from kindergarten and school had been cut early today, so she knew that Felix, her long standing best friend, was free. Naturally, that meant she'd invited him for coffee. But with all the new security arrangements her husband had done to the house, this felt a lot more comfortable than bringing Felix home.

After all, she hardly wanted to explain why her house had turned into an impenetrable fortress. No, that was probably better left to be dealt with the two people involved in her marriage.

The coffee shop was practically empty, seeing as how most people either at work or in school now, which fit the situation perfect. After all, having someplace nice and quiet to relax before going back home was exactly what she needed right now. Work had been stressful and then there was all the security measures. To say that Erika had her hands full was putting things lightly.

As the bell on the door rang, Erika lifted her head and smiled broadly at the familiar face stepping through the door. "Felix," she called out and waved him over. 

Felix Nicholas

[Felix Nicholas]

Felix had settled into life as a Bellefonte teacher far more naturally then he'd expected. He had always taken a compassionate outlook towards his fellow students when he'd been enrolled at the Academy, but thought that perhaps once he was in a position of authority that the student body would view him differently; Thankfully, that seemed to be far from the case. Students seemed to flock to him, and he was more then glad to be kept busy doing what good he could for them; These were unsettled times, and any stability Felix could provide in order to calm the nerves of the students he was more then ready to do so. This was one of the reasons for his slight delay... Despite the early finish to classes, he had taken some time in the Academy's music department scheduling out an after school music program for those wanting to form an Academy orchestra.
He finally managed to pull himself away once he realised how late it was getting, and that he was needed elsewhere. He did wonder why Erika had opted for the coffee shop as opposed to her home, but then perhaps she merely just fancied taking a break out rather then within the same walls she saw day after day.

Felix stepped into the coffee shop, his laptop bag over his shoulder, his headphones sat at the base of his neck; He glanced round the shop, before his attention was brought to the woman sat not far from him when she called his name. Erika Conner, the woman he was honoured to call his dearest friend. "Eri," He grinned, approaching the table as he slipped his bag off his shoulder,
dropping it gently to the floor as he sat himself down. "Sorry for being late... I was stuck in the music department." He began to remove his jacket, placing it over his chair. He looked over towards the counter, waving politely at the server who nodded with a smile in response; Well, old habits die hard, and Felix had always valued his coffee... And as such, he'd become a frequent customer at the shop. He then shifted his attention back to his friend, chuckling a little warmly. "You look beat, Eri. I heard there was a few fights at the Academy today... Those kids have got you running ragged." There was obvious concern in his voice.

[Erika Conner (Bellefonte)]

Swatting her hand at him, Erika chuckled. "Don't worry about it," she promised him. She honestly hadn't minded - it simply meant she got some time to just be alone and relax. Not that she minded being around people, but being married, having a kid and running a school meant that there was very little time to yourself. And yet, she loved every second of it. Mostly.

Smiling, Erika propped her elbow up against the table and leaned her cheek against her palm. "Being headmistress isn't nearly as privileged as people make you think," she said with a smile, then shrugged. "But it is what it is and kids will always be kids." She remembered from her own time as a student that kids argued and got into fights - and it was worse with teenagers with powers that was controlled by their hormones and moods. It was a given.

"How are you? I bet the kids love you." In fact, she'd heard quite a few of them brag about him just a few days ago. He'd gotten rather popular it seemed and Erika was more than happy. She knew he was great at his job, but even better yet, Felix had opted to do exactly what he loved doing; music. And he truly deserved that.

[Felix Nicholas]

Felix quickly found his mood growing warmer as Erika began to speak, chuckling again at her words. It wasn't that he was particularly unhappy, but he'd gone through a fairly insecure period of his life and while out on the other side, it was taking a while to become as healthy as he had once been. Since returning to Bellefonte however, his recovery was growing steadily by the day. The students gave him something he truly cared for that he could focus on, but along with that came rebonding to his friends, his family... Time spent with them was perhaps far more precocious to the teacher then they realised. To think, had he not had the shock to his system of his younger brother's mutation he perhaps would still be attending all of those board meetings, smiling falsely at PR events all while clad in some cookie cutter suit. The very idea now left a bitter taste. No... Here was where he was needed, where he felt needed. Here he could truly make a difference.

"We were no better," He grinned, folding his arms and leaning back comfortably in his chair. He then found a more child like grin eclipsing him as he momentarily mused on the various escapades he and Erika had gotten themselves wrapped up in. "The time you got me to jump into the lake being a particular favourite of mine." The teacher then gave a polite nod to the server as his usual order, a caramel latte, was presented to the table. "They love me? Well, I don't mean to brag..." He spoke, paying the coffee girl money from his wallet from his coat pocket, before taking the steaming beverage in hand. "But the orchestra sign ups have already had about eight applicants, and I've not even posted it up officially yet." He then gave a playful shrug. "Granted, it might simply be that the joy of music has made it 's way throughout our Academy... Or, what I like to think, that I'm a rather amazing teacher." He was joking of course, since he was fairly new to the school, but he did get the feeling that he was popular due to the amount of students wanting to take part in his classes.

Felix then brought his cup to his lips, taking a small sip before looking back to the headmistress with warm eyes. "You don't get to stop though when you go home... How's Isaac?" Felix, frankly, adored being a godfather, and took every excuse he could to spend time with his godson.

[Erika Conner (Bellefonte)]

"That's true," she laughed. She remembered fondly all the fights that had gotten physical that she'd had with Ellen. She was hardly one to talk. However, the brunette couldn't keep the second laugh away when Felix mentioned one of their little teenage adventures. "Oh god," she muttered, her hand coming up to drag down the lines of her face as she shook her head. "Don't remind me." It was rather ironic, sitting here, as a wife and a mother, thinking back to when she'd been a teenager. But ah, it was a time long gone.

The brunette listened closely to what Felix had to say and nodded along. Maybe he was joking, but it was all still true. He was an amazing teacher and he was great with people. That was hardly much of a surprise. In fact, Erika would easily admit that she'd expected this when he stepped forward and said that he wanted to be a teacher. "It suits you," she mused as she nodded towards him. "Being a teacher."

"I don't," she admitted with a smile. "But it's part of the job." Besides, Erika loved being a mother. She loved every aspect of it, even the bad days. She'd never thought herself capable of loving another human being as much as she loved her son. "He's doing fine. I'm going to go pick him up from kindergarten later if you want to join." Another thing the telekinetic loved was that everyone around the little boy adored him. He was such a loved and blessed child; Erika really couldn't have hoped for anything better.

[Felix Nicholas]

Felix often found himself musing on the old days, back when everything was far less complicated... Before emotions got in the way,
childish emotions, before the horrors of SPECTRE and the chaos of the world's eyes being opened to the evolved living among them.
Yes... The small world of being a student at Bellefonte Academy back when all they had to worry about so not showing their powers outside of the school and test papers seemed like a lifetime ago.
They both changed so much... Him and Erika. She was a mother... A wife... A headmistress. All roles she performed with her whole heart, with beauty and with grace. Erika had always been an honour to know, and now she truly was fully formed into a stunning human being... Not that she hadn't always been, but now she was sure of herself far more so then ever before. Felix hoped he could achieve the same someday; Although he was certain he was on the right track. Finally.

He took a further intake of his beverage, it's sweetness coating his tongue as his smile widened. She felt it suited him... Well, it had felt like the most natural position he'd ever taken on. He'd wanted to become a music therapist... But teaching was well on it's way to stealing his heart; It wasn't like he couldn't incorporate what he knew of music therapy into his teaching. "I like to think so," He replied, looking down into the swirling caramel coloured drink. "I know it's early days yet, but I've never felt more at home." He then paused, putting his drink down and giving the female a nod. "I'd love to!" He laughed a little, raising his cup again; any excuse to spend time with his godson. "That little guy has so many people wrapped around his little finger... Including myself." He then paused a moment, the cup almost to his lips as he look over to the young woman. "You make such a wonderful mother. You're a natural... I always thought you would be."

[Erika Conner (Bellefonte)]

"I'm glad," she replied honestly. After everything they'd all been through, they deserved to be happy and do something that made them happy. Especially Felix; she knew how much the whole ordeal with Elsa, and even herself, had taken its tolls on him. She hoped he was focusing on other things and not actively searching for love. As much as Erika wanted him to find it, she felt it more important that he focused on himself and found himself steady ground to stand on before spreading his focus field.

Another thing the brunette adored was how incredibly enamored her best friend was with her son; it was warming and... She couldn't think of anyone else better suited for the job as a godfather, or uncle as Isaac loved calling him. "Tell me about it," she laughed, her head shaking. "And you're spoiling him rotten - all of you." And naturally, Isaac loved every second of it, just like any other two year old would be. However, the next part had the telekinetic smiling warmly. "Oh, my son apparently isn't the only one getting spoiled rotten here," she grinned. But she agreed; she was a good mother. She had always been unsure whether or not she would be, because of her own mother and upbringing, but with great support from her friends, she had managed.

"Thank you though, I really appreciate that." She'd never thought it possible to ever love another human being quite that much. The love she had for her son was unconditional.

[Felix Nicholas]

Felix's heart had taken more then a few breaks in it's time, with the most recent... Be it a few years previously... Romantic entanglement had left it's mark. Felix was still uncertain if he'd ever fallen in love, but what he'd felt for Elsa Bellefonte had been the closest he had come. Not that he wasn't happy for her; She deserved so much, and knowing she was in a good place emotionally was enough to salve him. The teacher had no intention thus far of actively looking for someone to date, and while it was a possibility it had not ruled out, it was not something he was searching for. For the first time in a long time, he felt healthier, and he felt he owed that significantly to not focusing on affairs of the heart.

When it came to his position as godfather, Felix had never felt more honoured, and he openly adored the child. In his short time living back in Kalispell, he'd become an active part of Isaac's life. Felix held his hands up defensively. "Hey, how can anyone say no to that face?" He chuckled warmly, taking a further intake of his drink before placing it down on the table, folding his arms with a smile. "You should see what I'm going to buy him for christmas this year." Felix by his nature held a great fondness for celebratory events, and the winter festivities were no different; He did however have a tendency to go a touch overboard when it came to gifts, especially for his godson. His smile then widened, and he gave a light hearted shrug. "I just call it as I see it, my dearest Eri," He replied, tilting his head slightly to one side, his expression softening. "You've taken on so much though, in such a short space of time... Don't burn yourself out. If you're struggling... You'll let me know? I don't mind taking Isaac when needed, or helping out with other Academy issues." He reached out a hand, and lightly poked the young woman on the nose. "You might be a headmistress, a mother and a wife, but you're still Erika and I know what you're like." He then pulled his shirt sleeve back from his wrist, glancing down towards his watch, before looking to his best friend. "When are you picking Isaac up? I've got my car, we can take that if you'd rather not walk."

[Erika Conner (Bellefonte)]

"I can," she protested with a laugh. Though, she supposed it was easier when it was her own child. "I have a feeling I don't want to know." Well, needless to say, Isaac was going to end up with heaps of presents every year and there was little Erika could do about it. She supposed it was fine though, that so many people cared about her and Drew's son. If anything were to happen, at least Erika knew that Isaac would be in safe hands. It was a good feeling to sit with - not that she thought anything would happen, but it was nice to know that at least their son would have a good like if anything did.

Erika's smile didn't falter, but it didn't show as much glee as it had previously. Yes, she'd taken on a lot lately - heck. she'd taken the headmistress position while being pregnant. But at the end of the day, she loved her job, she loved being a wife despite her husband being insanely paranoid as of late and she loved being a mother more than anything. Sure, there were bad days, but at the end of the day, she could honestly say that she loved her life. "I'll keep that in mind, but really... I'm fine," she promised. "And you know you can babysit whenever you want," she added with a smirk.

Pulling out her phone, the brunette pursed her lips. "I can pick him up anytime before five pm," she started, licking her bottom lip before looking back up at Felix. "So it depends on how eager you're to see him." She was flexible. And she didn't think Isaac would mind getting picked up early to see his uncle Felix.

[Felix Nicholas]

Although it was something Felix did not wish to dwell on, with the uneasy situation the world currently found itself in, there was a risk on them all... At least, no matter what, Felix would do all he could to protect Isaac; As would many others. He was a truly a beloved child.

Although his best friend's smile did not falter, it did little to hide the withdrawal of glee from her expression; Perhaps it was because they had known each other for so long, but Felix could read Erika Conner like a book. His own smile softened, and he let out a gentle sigh; Erika had a habit of stretching herself too thinly, taking on too much and crashing emotionally... There was a number of heavy weights on her shoulders, and Felix couldn't help but worry about her wellbeing. Things seemed to be going fairly well currently however, with nothing beyond the usual student trouble at the Academy, and there was more then enough people willing to give Erika and Drew a break from taking care of Isaac. "Still, you take care of yourself, okay? You know if you need anything I'm only a phone call away," He spoke warmly, the conviction evident in his words; Felix had broke into a government facility in order to rescue Erika... There was no limit to what he would do in order to protect his best friend and her family. He then gave a small laugh. "You know I love having that little guy around! Reminds me of my brother... You know, before he grew up and became less adorable." Felix couldn't see why Ellen fussed so over babysitting duties... He found it relatively easy. But then again, children and Ellen Banks were not a natural combination.

Felix couldn't prevent the delight in his smile at being able to see his godson earlier then expected,giving a nod before taking hold of his steadily cooling beverage. "I'd love that," He glanced out of the shop's large window, judging the weather before smiling back at the headmistress. "What's say we take him to the park? There's a children's play area there, it's small but I'm sure he'll adore it." He brought his drink to his lips and downed the rest of it, before putting the empty mug down. He turned in order to take hold of his jacket, slipping it back on. "Come on, Mrs.Conner! We have places to be."

[Erika Conner (Bellefonte)]

"I will," the brunette promised. She'd always adored the way Felix cared for her. It was so selfless. She had no idea how he continued being the very same person she'd gotten to meet all these years ago. "The same goes for you," she added. She felt that was important to add. He already knew, of course, but she wanted to be certain that he did. If only just for her own consciousness' sake. However, the last part had the telekinetic snorting out loud as she laughed. "Good thing my son's always going to be that cute," she winked.

Or, so she hoped, anyways. She was clearly biased though.

Chewing over Felix's words, the brunette followed his eyes. "Yeah, the park sounds nice," she nodded, her smile warming. Isaac loved the park - and even more so, he loved being around Felix. It was clear that Felix had grown to become one of Isaac's favorite people. Nothing made Erika happier.

"Aye, aye, Captain," she laughed, putting her hand on Felix's shoulder and giving it a tight squeeze.

[Felix Nicholas]

Felix could no more calm his natural caring attitude then stop his heart from beating, so all of those who fell under the category of being important to the man had to deal with his protective nature; Erika Conner being significantly high on that list. She, of all people, deserved fate to offer her a gentle, warm hand, to have a life where the only true stress was some minor student dispute at work. Life rarely was that kind however, and despite Erika's casual brushing off of his concerns, Felix could tell things were perhaps not as stable as she would like. Still, he did not wish to force the issue; Erika knew she could come to him with anything, any problem no matter how consuming or how insignificant, so Felix was settled in the knowledge if there was a problem that needed to be voiced, she would have done so; That being said, it wouldn't prevent the teacher from keeping a close eye regardless... The last thing he wanted was for his best friend to slip into that dark place when he wasn't looking.

"Me too? Hey, there's no need to worry about me," Felix grinned his trademark goofy, slightly lopsided smile. "I'm as resilient as they come. Born with a heart of steel." He was joking of course, but the warmth in his tone spoke of his appreciation for her concern. They had both endured to be where they were, but knowing Erika had his back the same as she had all of those years ago when he'd first met her, and he hers... It was a warming comfort. Felix have gave a hearty chuckle, before looking upwards towards the ceiling and placing a hand on his chest. "Bless... He takes after his godfather." He then lightheartedly returned her wink, before pausing as she placed her hand on his shoulder. He gave a small, nod, placing his hand on top of hers and gently patting it. "Aye Aye, first mate." He grinned, before standing up from his chair, taking hold of his laptop bag and stringing it over his shoulder. "Walk or car, Mrs.Conner?" He questioned. "Fancy a brisk winter stroll, or the warmth of a good automobile?"

[Erika Conner (Bellefonte)]

The brunette didn't reply; instead, she offered him a warm, gentle smile. The kind of smile that told him all he needed to know; she'd be there for him if he just asked her to. There was little point in delving into it though. She didn't want to bring up her sister. Not now. She knew how much that had hurt him, and well, if he didn't want to talk, then oh well. She wasn't going to force it.

The brunette then laughed and shook her head. "The warmth does sound much better," she admitted with a sheepish smile. Once upon a time the telekinetic had enjoyed the coldness, but not anymore. Then again, she'd always fancied warm beaches and scorching sun over anything else the world could offer - well, save for a few things, of course, but she hardly had to mention that. There was plenty of things - or people that she'd pick over the warmth of the sun and that list was long enough to keep her busy.

Her friends, her husband, her family and her son.

The most important people in her life. That wouldn't ever change.

"Come on," she said as she gestured towards the door. "Isaac is going to be thrilled."