Aura (Charles Xavier)

Chapter 7. Catching A Plane

   The next morning, after a slightly awkward wake up the five of you were piled into a car, heading towards the CIA Research Base. There was another woman with you, a Agent you had found out getting briefly informed of the plan in the morning. Pulling up now you all got out, staying close to Erik, the building bringing back bad memories. The panic set in a bit, your chest tight suddenly and you mind racing as you looked up at the official looking place. Staying behind Erik you tried to bring your heart rate down, missing the conversation between everyone.

"So we're to be the CIA's new mutant division, yes?" Charles asked, walking alongside everyone.

"Something like that." The man nodded, sharing a look with Charles.

You let them move forward, staying back for a moment as the looming building built the pressure on your lungs. Raven noticed the panic stricken look on your face and touched Charles arm before following the CIA agents into the building. Finding you he strode quickly to you, taking note of the paleness of your cheeks and the shallow breaths.

I must look ridiculous but I can't help it...

Nonsense. Can I help?

By this time Erik had noticed your absence and was making his way towards the two of you, face impassive but his eyes worried at your state. As he stopped beside you, you nodded at Charles who took a step towards you his hand reaching for you. Erik looked like he wanted to grab him before he made contact but he just watched, his eyes following each miniscule moment. Your breath was still barely making it into your lungs when Charles fingertips touched your temple with the softest of touches.

What are you so afraid of?

You couldn't let yourself show him everything but you were ready to show him enough to explain what brought the panic attack on. Letting him see the building you were kept in you gave him flashes of the lighter torture you were put through at the hands of Shaw. The buildings had the same kind of look and that's why the sight of this place had sent you into a tailspin. Shutting down he pulled his fingers away from you, his eyes shining in the morning light and you shook your head, not wanting pity.

"Audrey..." Erik said softly, capturing your attention but you shook your head, sending him a reassuring smile.

"Dredging up a bit of the past I'm afraid." You admitted, seeing the understanding dawn on his face, "Let's go."

"Do you need a bit more time?" Charles asked, hand hovering around your elbow as though he thought you were going to drop.

"No, I can do this." You nodded, taking a deep breath as you motioned for them to go.

Charles gave you the once over before turning and heading into the building, Erik resting his hand on your back as you walked inside. You ignored the deep gut feeling to run as you followed everyone in, the warm hand on your back a reminder that you were safe. Making your way to the lower level you were in awe at the model plane hanging from the ceiling, and you moved forward, forgetting the anxiety and focusing on the sleek design.

"It's a supersonic. The most advanced plane ever built." A voice startled you, making you turn, a young man in a lab coat and glasses standing opposite you, "You should see it in real life, it's incredible."

"I don't doubt it." You grinned, recognizing the awestruck tone.

Looking at him you could feel something about him but you weren't sure what it was. He seemed shy, meeting your gaze for only a few seconds at a time before glancing away. Despite your promise to never do it you reached into his mind for the briefest of moments, hearing his stream of thoughts.