「 The Professor & I 」VOLUME II

(272) Understand

Lynn's POV

The study lurked with suspicion and tension as Scott and Charles basically stared at each other. Speculations skipped through everyone's minds, unsure what to think of him leaving his most precious and beloved disciple behind.

"Those who are staying, go make yourselves comfortable. The rest of you, get yourselves prepared. We leave in five. Storm, ready the jet, please," Charles ordered politely and everyone nodded, spontaneously streaming through the doors.

"Why didn't you choose me?!" Scott hollered agitatedly once he was the only one in our company.

"Do you think I'm less because I've been brainwashed by Stryker? Do you doubt-" Scott confronted, grudgingly marching towards us.

"I do not doubt your capabilities, Scott. I never have," Charles affirmed genuinely.

"Then why? I can protect you," Scott argued in a puzzled tone as he froze before us. 

"Yes, there is no doubt that you can. But I'd rather leave your expertise here, where you can help me protect them," Charles asserted confidently and Scott's exasperation slowly diminished, transforming into enlightenment.

"You're the only one I trust with this duty, Scott," Charles stressed, gripping his arm firmly.

"I'm leaving her in your hands, and I want to be able to see the love of my life well when I get back," Charles challenged in a teasing tone, surrounding my waist in his arm and Scott smirked.

"You have my word," Scott guaranteed unconditionally and heartened by his mentor's esteemed acknowledgement, Scott happily exited the refined study, allowing Charles and I to be alone.

I meant to make his departure more bearable for both us, refraining from intimacy, but Charles adamantly kept his hand grasped around my waist. The moment the doors shut on us, he leaned in, tenderly cradling my skull, and kissed me passionately.

"Charles, please... I don't want you to see me crying before you leave," I begged breathlessly, striving to break away from his alluring lips and resist the tears that swelled threateningly.

Gradually, Charles opened his eyes, lips still smacked on mine as he paused toying with my tongue. Hastily, I pulled away, swallowing awkwardly as I determinedly averted my wet gaze from his face.

"I'm sorry, Lynn. I couldn't help it," Charles confessed quietly, his enchanting voice easily captivating my eyes again, especially when it was this crumbly.

"I'll try not to miss you," I whispered, mustering the most lighthearted tone and the most convincing smile I could manage.

"Do you blame me too, for not choosing you?" Charles probed gently, carefully intertwining our fingers as he gazed solemnly at me.

"Seriously, you're concerned with that, and not the fact that I happened to guess your all choices correct?" I joked and Charles finally chuckled.

"It's really not that surprising, my love. You've always been perceptive," Charles remarked and I smiled back at his gracious grin, utterly appreciative.

"I don't blame you, Charles," I answered sincerely, resting my palm on his chest.

"You've already left me Raven and what you think is best. If I ask anymore, I'm afraid we'll have to abandon the mission," I frankly confided.