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"Charles, Alex wrote! He's back from 'Nam and will visit in a few because he's worried about you!"
"My little girl." I smiled once I heard her voice and knocked on the door.
"Can I help you?" A teenage boy opened the door and I could just barely see Lyla walking down the stairs.
"Yeah, what happened to the school?"
"School's been shut for years. Are you a parent?" He asked.
"Somewhat. Who are you?"
"I'm Hank McCoy. I look after the house now."
"You're Beast!? Look at you! I guess you're a late bloomer."
"I don't know what you're talking about, but I'm gonna have to ask you to leave."
"Hank, who's at the door?" Lyla asked, opening it further and froze when she saw me. "No... it can't be."
"Lyla, who's-"
"You're supposed to be dead... I saw them kill you."
"I can assure you, it's me, moonlight." I smiled softly and she slammed the door at my face. "Okay... not how I planned it."
I opened the door again but Hank tried to keep it closed.
"Pretty strong for a scrawny boy, huh?"
"Get out."
"You sure there's not a little Beast in there?" I teased and three claws penetrated the door making me take a step back. "Okay... new plan."
I fully kicked the door open and grabbed Lyla's arms before she could slash me.
"I promise I'll explain everything once you've calmed down from the shock, but it's truly me... I just need to see the Professor first and then I'll explain everything and answer all the questions you may have."
"You're not him." She snarled and I showed my claws. "My dad's dead."
"When have I ever lied to you, kid?"
"Lyla, what's going on?" Charles called out and walked down the stairs. "Oh, dear God..."
"You knew!?" Lyla exclaimed and Hank had to hold her back. "You knew he was alive and you never thought to fucking tell me!?"
Definitely my kid.
"I knew I should've cut back on the swearing when you were younger." I grimaced and she glared at me.
"Alive? Lyla, what are going on about?"
"Tell me he's not my father, Charles!"
"You both do look alike and he looks slightly familiar."
Lyla managed to break free of Hank's hold and stormed up to me, lowering my shirt slightly to reveal my dog tags.
"It's truly me, Lyla." I assured and she looked up at me with glassy eyes. "I haven't lied to you once and I don't plan to do so now."
