The X-men run missions and work together with the NYPD, striving to maintain a peaceful balance between humans and mutants. When it comes to a fight, they won't back down from protecting those who need their help.
Haven presents itself as a humanitarian organization for activists, leaders, and high society, yet mutants are the secret leaders working to protect and serve their kind. Behind the scenes they bring their goals into reality.
From the time when mutants became known to the world, SUPER was founded as a black-ops division of the CIA in an attempt to classify, observe, and learn more about this new and rising threat.
The Syndicate works to help bring mutantkind to the forefront of the world. They work from the shadows, a beacon of hope for mutants, but a bane to mankind. With their guiding hand, humanity will finally find extinction.
Since the existence of mutants was first revealed in the nineties, the world has become a changed place. Whether they're genetic misfits or the next stage in humanity's evolution, there's no denying their growing numbers, especially in hubs like New York City. The NYPD has a division devoted to mutant related crimes. Super-powered vigilantes help to maintain the peace. Those who style themselves as Homo Superior work to tear society apart for rebuilding in their own image.
MRO is an intermediate to advanced writing level original character, original plot X-Men RPG. We've been open and active since October of 2005. You can play as a mutant, human, or Adapted— one of the rare humans who nullify mutant powers by their very existence. Goodies, baddies, and neutrals are all welcome.
Short Term Plots:Are They Coming for You?
There have been whispers on the streets lately of a boogeyman... mutant and humans, young and old, all have been targets of trafficking.
The Fountain of Youth
A chemical serum has been released that's shaving a few years off of the population. In some cases, found to be temporary, and in others...?
MRO MOVES WITH CURRENT TIME: What month and year it is now in real life, it's the same for MRO, too.
Fuegogrande: "Fuegogrande" player of The Ranger, Ion, Rhia, and Null
Neopolitan: "Aly" player of Rebecca Grey, Stephanie Graves, Marisol Cervantes, Vanessa Bookman, Chrysanthemum Van Hart, Sabine Sang, Eupraxia
Ongoing Plots
Magic and Mystics
After the events of the 2020 Harvest Moon and the following Winter Solstice, magic has started manifesting in the MROvere! With the efforts of the Welldrinker Cult, people are being converted into Mystics, a species of people genetically disposed to be great conduits for magical energy.
The Welldrinker Cult
A shadowy group is gaining power, drawing in people who are curious, vulnerable, or malicious, and turning them into Mystics. They are recruiting people into their ranks to spread the influence of magic in the world, but for what end goal?
Are They Coming for You?
There have been whispers on the streets lately of a boogeyman... mutant and humans, young and old, all have been targets of trafficking.
Adapteds
What if the human race began to adapt to the mutant threat? What if the human race changed ever so subtly... without the x-gene.
Atlanteans
The lost city of Atlantis has been found! Refugees from this undersea mutant dystopia have started to filter in to New York as citizens and businessfolk. You may make one as a player character of run into one on the street.
Got a plot in mind?
MRO plots are player-created the Mods facilitate and organize the big ones, but we get the ideas from you. Do you have a plot in mind, and want to know whether it needs Mod approval? Check out our plot guidelines.
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Jorge was true to his word. His caseload was smaller considering what had happened to him so the only thing he really had to focus on was Peter and his face. After calling in to the precinct that he was there to ensure that the kid was comfortable, Jorge gave himself free reign to hang by Peter’s side for as long as he wanted him to. Thankfully, as it seemed, it wasn’t going to last all that long. Beforelong, Peter was removing himself from Jorge’s side and following Maya without having to constantly look his way. It seemed that he was making himself at home.
All the while, however, there was a small tinge of the awkward in the air as Gemma also stayed along with Peter. The both of them melted into the background as the boy was being ferried along by Maya, leaving Jorge just a little unsure of what to do in the woman’s presence. Occasionally he would glance her way but he would turn his attention back before this was caught.
Why was this so awkward? Oh yeah, because she lied to him for months when he was desperate for any shred of information about his past. That was a pretty good reason to be awkward. But she had her reasons, even Jorge had to admit that they were valid. He really just wished that some of this would clear up so they could move on -- however it was supposed to happen.
By the time Peter had everything he needed and was settling in, Jorge smiled as he knelt near the boy. He was now sitting on his own bed in the mansion, looking about in wonderment and the quarters that would be his and his alone.
”Hey Pete. So, looks like everything here on the up and up. You comfortable? Feel like you’re good staying?” Jorge asked.
The boy nodded, offering him a big smile.
”I’m glad to hear it. Listen, I gotta take off now, but you’re in good hands. However, if you need to talk for any reason…” Jorge pulled out his wallet and removed a business card from it. ”...you call or text the number on this card, okay?” He set the card on the kid’s nightstand. ”I’m always around if you need me.”
The boy, taking the card in his hands, smiled as he turned it over. Jorge smirked and shared another nod with Peter before he turned to walk away. At Gemma’s insistence, Jorge dipped his head understandingly. There was always paperwork.
”Yeah, that sounds good,” Jorge confirmed. He started to follow Gemma back to her office, his eyes peering around the decor in the hallways and sighed. ”Peter seems like he’ll be happy here. I’m glad you all are around. Giving these kids a second chance and all that. No wonder we…” he paused, catching himself, the continued. ”...you work here.”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Jorge really wasn’t sure how to feel about everything. Well, not everything. Job wise, everything was perfect. Peter was going to get the help and safety he needed. The school itself was the best place for him, and certainly had everything in order (from what he’d read). So everything in that respect was going in the best possible direction. But there were other things on the watermancer’s mind -- namely the woman who called himself his wife that he had no recollection of.
It was strange. It felt right to be around her but the officer was completely unsure as to what to do. She had lied to him, after all, and didn’t offer him the chance to try and work out how he should feel given that he was supposed to have been married to her this whole time. But, on the other hand, he could understand why she would want to keep it a secret. Why saddle someone with no memory with the knowledge of a life they couldn’t remember?
He was conflicted. As much as he wanted to get past it, there were still just so many questions and so many concerns about how he should proceed. In the meantime, he would focus on his job.
A plate of the most delectable looking pancakes was placed in front of Peter and, as the boy began to chow down with vigor, Jorge glanced at the second plate that was set down. This clearly had been for him. He glanced at Gemma awkwardly. Her cooking was top notch. It was because of her that he managed to get some home cooked meals while he was trying to figure himself out. It was a hard lure to ignore.
As Peter looked at him, Jorge gave the kid an encouraging smile, stepped up and took a forkful of the hefty, yet light-as-a-feather pancakes and took bit into it. Ugh. No one should be allowed to cook this good. He offered Gemma a small smirk before turning back to Peter. That was a lot of things they needed to figure out, and a big decision for the boy to make, so Jorge would stay at his side.
After swallowing he spoke up. ”Everyone here is here to truly help, Peter, okay?” Jorge smiled to him. ”I haven’t met Maya yet but if Ms. Taylor can vouch for them, I’m sure they’ll be awesome. You want me to stay until you get settled?”
A look of relief washed over Peter’s face. Quickly he nodded his head, carefully chewing his mouthful of pancakes before swallowing. “Y-Yes, please,” he asked. And then looked at Gemma. “Thank you, ma’am, for the pancakes.”
Jorge nodded his head. He then turned to Gemma, awkwardly looked to the side before he shrugged. ”So long as you don’t mind another tag along?” he asked. ”I’ll stick around until the boy gets himself a room and settles in.”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Despite whatever he was feeling for or against Gemma Taylor (Cervantes?), Jorge knew that he needed to stow it for now. He was here for the kid. He was here to make sure that Peter was comfortable and that he was going to thrive here at the mansion. He was protective services, of course, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t do a thorough job and report his findings. And, in all honesty, he was already impressed with the school -- as well as Ms. Taylor’s understanding of the kid’s predicament.
Jorge had to marvel at how she treated him. Very attentive, almost parent-like, but with enough of an official stance to not make the kid too squirrely. Kids like Peter could be a hard sell. They either feared being rejected or were suspicious for anyone who attempted to “parent” them, especially after being abandoned. Gemma, however, had a nice, even touch. It was refreshing, to say the least.
Once in the kitchen, Jorge took a moment to let his eyes wander. It was a beautiful space and seemed fairly laden with food. No surprise. There were a good amount of kids here, all of which probably ate at different times of the day. It paid for them to be in constant supply.
At the behest of pancakes, Peter perked up. Good choice. A hearty, comforting food, that was enough to calm anyone’s nerves. Hell, Jorge could use some pancakes right but he didn’t say as much. Instead he turned to the coffee that was offered to him after a quick brew and mix.
Without thinking, Jorge took a sip and sighed. It was relaxing and familiar. Then, after a second, he turned back to Gemma with a conflicted but grateful smile. ”Um, perfect,” he said softly. His gaze swept back to the mug in his hand. ”Just perfect.”
It made sense. They were married. Of course she would know how he liked his coffee. Jorge just didn’t know how to feel about that right now. He was still so conflicted about her. She had known, this entire time, that they were married and that he was desperate for information about his life in New York. While he understood that it was a painful thing to have to experience, they could have gone through it together. Instead she kept it a secret.
Would he have done the same if the situation was reversed? Jorge struggled with that question for days after he had asked Gemma to leave his place. He tried, many times, to put himself into her shoes but just couldn’t settle on an answer. It was too hard to consider.
He stared at his coffee, sighed, and snapped back to reality. He was here to do his job and that was what he should focus on. With another sip, he raised his eyes to Peter who was busy awaiting his pancakes. Jorge then turned again to Ms. Taylor.
”Lovely home here,” he said, gesturing all around. ”Glad to see that Peter will get a good chance to start over.”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Jorge did still have mixed feelings about the guidance counselor -- who happened to be his wife. When he found out it was more hurt than angry, but it was a feeling that was only compounded the longer he spent in her presence. That was why he had stayed away for so long because he couldn’t get his thoughts together accurately. Everything just felt so confusing when he was around her. But now that time had passed -- he was even more confused.
Jorge had hoped that his time away from Gemma would be enough for him to clear his head. Then he had hoped that by burying himself in his work that he would be able to bury some of those feelings and instead let time heal the wound. But sadly it seemed that betrayal and longing had managed to find a way to constantly vexxed the deaged police officer, no matter how much time had passed.
But that wasn’t what this meeting was about. This was a chance meeting in an attempt to do something good for a poor kid who needed a break. And though Jorge would have rather stepped away so that he could collect himself, that wouldn’t have been in the kid’s best interest.
He smiled a little to Peter who looked between him and Gemma, marveling at the explanation as to how his powers wouldn’t work near her and at the idea of a warm meal and bed.
“Um...um...I...guess I’m a little hungry…” Peter softly squeaked out. He winced and closed his eyes, but when he opened them he was surprised. Waving his hand in front of his nose, he noted that there was no smoke and was astonished.
Jorge gave him a lopsided grin. ”It’s okay, kid. Like she said, she can cancel out powers. But if you take a couple steps away, you’ll get them back. She’ll be as close or as far as you need her to be.”
His gaze swept back over to Gemma. She really did have a way with kids. He could see, partially, why an older version of himself would be attracted to her. Wait...what? He shook the thoughts loose as he took a breath and followed the counselor into the mansion.
Jorge was silent for several moments, only looking at Peter or surveying the surroundings. It took time before his eyes found Gemma again and, when they did, he cleared his throat and spoke.
”Ugh...sorry. I hope this is not too..um...hi.” He shook his head. ”Sorry. When they assigned me to bring the kid here I...guess I thought one of the teachers was going to greet us.” After a pause and a second to clear his throat he continued. ”How are you?”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
This wasn’t the first time that Jorge had taken a kid to a foster home. There was a time in Miami when he had been called out to a domestic disturbance and the parents had to be taken away. Their daughter, sadly, didn’t have any neighbors or family who could take her in. It had been a long night in the precinct, sitting with the young girl, giving her hot chocolate, and generally making sure she was well cared for before he got the orders to take her to her new foster home.
The entire trip, Jorge chatted up the young girl, keeping her entertained and talking about how sweet the people taking her in would be. By the time that they had arrived it seemed that the trepidation had lowered significantly. Jorge had always been good with kids so he did the same thing for Peter all the way to the mansion.
Of course, seeing Gemma had thrown him for a little loop. He had hoped that maybe one of the other instructors would be there to greet them at the door and he could pass Peter off to them so he could be taken to Gemma on his own. The two wouldn’t have had to have seen one another.
But, as it seemed, fate intervened and the one person in this world that truly made the young watermancer nervous was standing at the front doors. And she looked just as surprised.
They stared awkwardly for a second before Jorge introduced the new student to Gemma. Peter looked very nervous but that was understandable. So when Gemma offered the boy a meal and a warm place to sit, he looked at Jorge with a small bit of apprehension. Of course Jorge dipped his head to the boy, encouraging him to follow the guidance counselor -- that is until she invited him in as well.
He understood why. Consistency. How was the boy supposed to trust that this place would be right for him with the police officer that brought him wouldn’t walk in of his own volition? It wasn’t as if young Drago needed to know anything about Jorge and Gemma’s issues. At the end of the day, they were both here for him.
Finally in response, Jorge offered the guidance counselor a quick smile and a nod of his head. ”Of course, Ms. Taylor,” he said, stepping awkwardly closer. ”Ugh, that would be just fine.” His smile turned to Peter, who looked considerably more relieved, and gestured for him to enter. ”After you, young sir.”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Things had been interesting for Jorge since his last conversation with the guidance counselor. He hadn’t spoken to her since that day but his life had moved on. Most of it was shrouded in confusion considering the bombshell of information that he had discovered. The picture, the admission, the fact that he had been married to her this whole time but never once said as much despite every passing day? That was a hard one to wrap his mind around -- but he supposed in some miniscule way, he could understand.
But that didn’t mean he forgave her. Not yet. No, Jorge took this time of revitalized youth to throw himself into his work. That was his pattern -- and a major reason why he never had long lasting relationships since joining the force. Jorge needed time to come to term with certain things and, in doing so, often focused on his work
This was one of those times. The MRC was running pretty well though it seemed that he had been a major playing in the department. One of the few cops to last so long, he had apparently managed to leave his mark. Sadly, the biggest issue with this fountain of youth B.S. was that he didn’t remember achieving any of it. So, even though he had managed to put in the time, he couldn’t remember any of it. Those old instincts were faded and, therefore, of no use to the department.
He was back to square one.
Jorge found himself just a step up from foot patrol. Not that he would have complained, really, but it was still a slight kick in the teeth. It felt like so much of his time had been wasted and now he was starting over. Still, that wasn’t what he was in this job for. He was here to help and to defend, that was something that was truly important.
Today, for example. Today he was making his way to Xavier’s mansion to drop off a poor kid who had the cops called on him.
Earlier the police had been called into the case. A freaked out bookstore owner was fearful that a mutant was planning to burn down his store in an act of terrorism. However, when the MRC arrived, all they saw was an innocent looking boy who had lost control of his abilities, which essentially only resulted in smoke spewing from his nose. A sad state of affairs, yes, but not something that the police needed to be called for.
To make matters worse, the boy had no family and was seemingly living on his own, struggling to make it day by day. While the next step for most kids would be calling protective services, Jorge knew that there was one place that could give the kid a much better chance.
In the squad car, Jorge looked at the high gates and the sprawling lawn of the mansion. He hadn’t been here yet, not since he had been deaged. But there was certainly a pang of familiarity about it. But as he drove up to the front door, all Jorge could feel was the spectres of memories and that was more infuriating than anything.
With a sigh he glanced out of the corner to his eye to the morose looking boy. When they caught eyes, the officer gave him a smile. ”Hey. Do worry, kid. I hear they do good work here. Got a good rep with use back in the department.”
“Yeah?” the boy asked sheepishly, a small plume of smoke rolling out of his nose. “Y-You’ve been here?”
Jorge looked ahead. ”Been...sometime…” he replied. ”But...I have a...good friend that works here…”
His voice trailed off. There, outside the doors of the mansion, was the woman he still felt so conflicted about. Tall, dark skinned, with a kind smile, the officer felt himself overcome with a bevy of emotions. Should he still be mad? This was his wife after all. Or were they? What happened to those deaged when trying to return to a relationship they were supposed to have? Jorge, again, found his head hurting as he tried to think and thought it best to shrug it off and do his job.
He would think about her later.
About where they are in their relationship, that is.
The squad car pulled up and Jorge turned, giving the boy and encouraging nod before he unbuckled his seatbelt and climbed out. Once out, he guided the boy gently towards the towering woman and gave her a curt nod.
”Ma’am...I mean...Mrs…” he cleared his throat. ”Miss Taylor? This is Peter Drago,” he said, introducing the smaller, blonde-haired boy. ”MRC contacted you concerning his case?”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
He could see that she was upset. That she was hurting over her actions. But while that was appreciated, Jorge also was having a hard time focusing on anyone else’s emotions but his own. This was big. Like, one of the biggest betrayals that he had ever had to face. The person that he was steadily trusting during the worst time of his life turned out to be a liar, holding back some of the most important, key information from him. And did so knowingly.
That was a hard pill to swallow. And an even harder act to forgive.
Water continued to float protectively around him. He stood there, staring in confusion, his gaze sweeping from Gemma to the carpet, to the walls, seeking any kind of perchance so that she could begin to calm. Hard it seemed harder and harder to do the more he thought about it.
He snapped. He wanted answers and he wanted them now. The questions were general, exaggerations that hardly seemed possible. As Gemma took an exhausted seat, Jorge turned his back to her, leaning on a bookcase as he hung his head. It was too much. So much information. While he understood why she didn’t want to tell him everything right off the bat, it’s been months Months where he could have been taking all this slowly. Instead he was just hearing it all right off the bat.
It was a lot. Almost too much. Especially when she confirmed the worst part of all this -- kids. He had kids. Not only that but twins. Didn’t matter to him that they were adopted but he was a father and he hasn’t known that for this long? His head snapped back to her as she said this, further explaining that they had known each other for ten years, been married for two, and he had vanished for three, lost in the ocean.
He couldn’t help it. His legs felt weak. He slumped into his former chair, gulping as he tried to catch his breath. His heart. It was beating too fast. Was he going to have a heart attack? Was he going to keel over right here? No. His skin felt like it was vibrating and the water swirled faster, but he wasn’t in danger. Anxiety. His jaw tightened as he clenched and unclenched his hands.
But it was hard to control. His breathing felt short. He gulped as he stared down at the table top. ”G-Get out…” he whispered. There wasn’t hate behind his words. Instead it was more of a pleading. ”...please...just...get out. I...I can’t think straight…” It was only after a long moment before he raised his eyes to meet hers and said, ”...I can’t...think...with you here. Please...”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
It was...conflicting. Here he was, trying to find any small snippets of the decades of life that he had missed out on, and the one person whom he was feeling like he could trust turned out to be one holding onto the most vital information. He almost felt physically sick at the idea of it, a feeling which only got worse as he looked at her face. He needed an explanation, and he needed it now.
By the expression on her face he could see that she knew precisely what he had been looking at. There was no way to go but forward when he asked if she had known. He already knew the truth, now it was time to see just how much she was going to commit to the lie.
The water swirled in the bottles, popping off the lids and swirling into the open air. His jaw clenched tightly as she spoke. She confirmed that she did know, since the first day. They had called next of kin, after all.
He remembered how desperate he felt when he was holding onto that wedding ring in his hands. The weight of it between his fingers. He didn’t know who he was married to and while he was certain it would have been painful to them to be married to someone that no longer recognized them, at least that was a pain they could have gone through together.
Instead it’s been months of struggling to know who he is only to have Ms. Taylor (or is it Mrs. Cervantes) withholding vital information.
In reaction to his confused, frustrated emotions, the globules of floating water took menacing shapes, spiking outward like little morning stars before fluidly bending and wrapping around his body like a protective serpent. His gaze turned down to the carpet, eyes boring holes into the floorboards as she tried to explain.
Once again his hurt-filled eyes locked in onto her. ”Responsible? Gemma, we could have gone through this together. I’ve been desperate for any kind of information. Anything. And you’ve just stood back and watched me go through that? For months? What else don’t I know?” He asked with exasperation. ”What do we have a house in the burbs? Couple a of kids? What?”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
He didn’t remember this. And it killed. It absolutely killed him that he was staring at this moment of time and he had absolutely no recollection of it. Instead all he felt were pinpricks of thoughts, little pokes in the corners of his brain that were aggravated as it rubbed too much with sandpaper. It hurt. Like when he first was trying to remember things, it hurt. But what was probably the most difficult for him besides staring at his older self in a scene that he couldn’t recall -- was seeing Ms. Taylor.
He didn’t recognize the place but he could surmise that it was some kind of restaurant. The tablecloth, the linen napkins, the single candle sitting in a round, glass bowl, the view of the river outside -- it was absolutely beautiful. But what was most shocking was who he was holding hands with.
They looked...happy together. He looked happy. All smiles as they posed for their seated picture, half-eaten food in the plates, love clearly in their expressions. Jorge sighed. That was him. He knew it was. He also knew this was important because it was tucked into one of his favorite books. But the confusion hung heavily in his mind as he tried to zero in his focus into the picture.
Conversations began to slip back in. Since she met him at the precinct, she had seemed...edgy and blocked off. She never alluded to who he was married to -- and the same in reverse. The look of pain on her face every time he mentioned or asked about it was telling now. The frustration over the lack of an answer had clearly blinded him; there was there in front of him this whole time.
His jaw clenched as he continued to stare at the photograph. His mind wavered between anger, sadness, and relief. It had just reached a culmination when he finally heard the soft ”...oh.” fill the dead air. He hadn’t realized she had returned from the bathroom and yet, here she was, standing before him, wearing an all too familiar expression that he could finally identify -- guilt.
Water began to churn. As the emotional fallout began, and still being far enough away from her aura, the water in their bottles began to spin and splash against the twisted caps as he struggled to maintain control under the silent tempest that was settled in behind his eyes.
”...you knew…” he whispered. After a pregnant pause he finally turned his head up, bleary eyes staring at her in the doorway. ”...this whole time. And you didn’t tell me?”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
The more Jorge watched, his eyes looking over the contours of her face, the more he knew just how dangerous this was. Not in a physical sense, but rather the danger of crossing a line that shouldn’t be crossed. She was a beautiful woman and, yes, he was actually feeling just a bit lonely after all this had happened. Of course such circumstances didn’t make for the best of possible decision-making skills.
His hand hovered over hers for an instant too long. Both of them seemed briefly taken aback, Jorge pulling his hand back to his own side of the table, Gemma seemingly conflicted about something. In the end she agreed that it was a hard job sometimes and something she may indeed bring up with her boss. However, as soon as she said it, she muttered something about needing a moment and stepped away from the table.
Jorge watched as she walked away. Not in a leering way, but more out of disappointment. Did he offend her? Was there a misunderstanding (or a standing that he didn’t mean to reveal?)? His lips skewed into a confused, saddened expression. What was he doing?
He really did begin to feel bad now. Maybe he had made her uncomfortable. She was being nothing but nice to a man she used to work with and who couldn’t remember her in the slightest and suddenly he was having some rather inappropriate thoughts because he craved company. This was ridiculous. He was being ridiculous. A resolute expression came to his eyes as he made the choice that, when she returned, he was going to be transparent and apologize.
Yeah. That was the way to go.
Shaking his head he picked up the book he had left on the table and sighed as he looked at the cover. One of favorites, and clearly a favorite of his older self. Ideally he began to flip through it, looking at the dog-eared pages and the highlighted passages. He only stopped when he could take a forkful of food, mentally trying to get his thoughts together for when Ms. Taylor returned.
It was as he got to about the middle of the book when something thicker than the pages got his attention. Curious, he opened the pages to that section and blinked when something slipped out and landed face down on the tabletop. He only set the book aside when he read the words that had been written on the back of the photograph -- in his handwriting: “1st Date Anniversary” along with a date scrawled next to it.
Picking up the photograph, he turned it around and stared at the image that looked back at him.
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Jorge watched the counselor as he made a side comment about her not telling him about his life. It wasn’t a ploy to get more information out of her, but rather just an attempt at bringing up conversation. It was a frustrating subject. He wanted to know. He was desperate to. But he didn’t want to appear too overly focused on it. After all, he didn’t know the person he was supposedly married to. And what was strange was the kind of comradery he was sensing from the precinct.
A few days ago, after he had started working there again, he had tried to ask a few of the officers who knew him about his past. Those few that he was close to seemed to grow instantly uncomfortable and denied knowing him that well. It seemed...unlikely. However he knew better than to push the issue. He just wished that someone would say something.
But he couldn’t focus on that right now. There was a lovely woman who had just brought him a lovely meal!
From her expression, she seemed a little tired. Things were obviously hectic where she was. On top of dealing with hormonal kids with mutant powers, she was also dealing with losing coworkers who had been deaged as well. Jorge felt a little bad upon hearing that. Not only because she was being overwhelmed but because he knew that he was one of those workers as well. He hadn’t even gone to the mansion to check it out. She had said that he was only there part-time anyways but...still.
He reached over, his hand resting on top of hers. He gave her a compassionate look as he spoke. ”I’m sorry you are having a hard time. Doesn’t make it any easier that I’m supposed to be partially working there too and have been affected by whatever this is.” He ran his thumb over her knuckles before he pulled his hand back, momentarily taken a little aback by the intimate comfort and cleared his throat before continuing. ”Well, why not ask? I’m sure the school is hurting for employees right now. Probably time to hire another. I...couldn’t hurt to ask, anyways, right?”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Jorge was really enjoying this meal. But this was just so much more tasty. He didn’t know what Gemma did to the dish, but she absolutely made it better. Yeah, it was a little sad to have to be brought food, but then again, as he glanced over to Gemma, there really could be worse fates.
That was one thing that the watermancer was still having some slight issue with. Ms. Taylor was an incredibly nice woman but for some reason he felt...a certain kind of way around her. Any short of blind could see that she was attractive but Jorge almost felt guilty for feeling that way. She was a bit older than him and while that wasn’t really a concern of his, there was still something that was unsavory about it. As much as he wanted to learn about her, she was guarded. Plus, it wasn’t as if she were sending out signals that she liked him in any way.
Really, all this could be just because she was being nice. No, as much as he felt a lingering attraction to her, now clearly wasn’t the time for him to making any kind of stupid decisions. In essence, she was his only friend right now. No need to jeopardize that.
He shook such thoughts out of his head as he went on about working for the MRC. There was a lot to live up to from the “Jorge Cervantes” that they knew. A cop who had decades under his belt, years that current Jorge was just beginning with. Again, it was intimidating, but he was doing what he always wanted to do with his life. He just had to figure a way around it.
He looked up, momentarily abandoning his meal as Ms. Taylor began to speak about his older self. She went on to explain that he was a good cop and that this was the perfect place to learn to be one again. After all, this was New York City, a place built on the principles of ‘You sink or swim’. He smirked and nodded his head to her.
”Thank you, Ms. Taylor,” he said, nodding his head, and turning back to his food, Breaking off a piece with his fork, he sampled the meat again before continuing. ”But I’ve heard enough about Jorge. And,” there was some slight frustration, but nothing rude. ”you’re probably still not ready to who to tell me the wedding ring I wear belongs to, why don’t you tell me a bit more about yourself? At this point, you’re probably my only friend as it seems no one else has come looking for him since…” he gestured to himself. ”...This happened.”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Okay so there were some benefits to having a friend come over all the time bringing home cooked meals: they were awesome. Ms. Taylor was an amazing book, so much so that despite his reminders that he knew how to provide for himself, he actually really looked forward to seeing what she would bring. In this instance, it proved to be exactly the hearty, rib-sticking meal that he was dreaming about -- meatloaf.
Honestly he smelled it before he even asked what it was that she brought. The scent of the formed, ground beef, veggies, and potatoes all wafted through the room and hit his nostrils. He almost felt carried off by the scent, like a scene from those classic cartoons he used to watch as a kid. Though earlier he had argued that he could provide for his own meals (which he could) he was not going to turn down a free home cooked meal.
”Wow. If I wasn’t hungry before, I certainly am now.” he smirked. ”You don’t do anything half-heartedly, do you? Smells great!”
Chuckling he moved up to the able, gave her a warm smile and proceeded to grab a few of the serving utensils that he had pulled earlier. Taking up a plate he served both himself and the counselor, leaving her plate in front of her. Once his own plate was filled, he took a seat at the table, and sighed as he unfolded his napkin.
After taking a bite of the food his eyes rolled up into his head and let out a rather inappropriate groan. Then, as if realizing what he had just done, he smirked and took up his napkin, wiping the corner of his mouth.
”Ugh, sorry. That is just...I think that’s the best meatloaf I’ve ever had.” He took a sip from his water before speaking again. ”MRC has been fine. Still get strange looks now and again. They keep telling me I was some amazing cop and I’ll find my feet soon enough, but, eh,” he shrugged his shoulders. ”Doesn’t help with the pressure, you know?”
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
With her water bottle set down and the food being laid out, Jorge knew that it would have been rude to sit and chow down right then and there. He had been cleaning this whole time and managed to work up a bit of a sweat. Even though he wasn’t done yet, and would probably get back to it once the counselor was gone, it was only appropriate that he freshen up a little in the meantime.
So he excused himself briefly from the living / dining room and moved into the bathroom. There he turned on his shower, removing his sweaty and dusty clothing. After he climbed in, he called back out to the woman as he heard her question chase after him.
”On and off,” he said. ”Some of the books I know I had when I was in Miami, and some are new to me. Still they are interesting reads.” He shrugged under the deluge of water.
Now that he was firmly out of Ms. Taylor’s adapted field, he could see and feel the water everywhere in his building. It felt nice. To feel connected with his mutation like this. That was the only drawback of her visits, the constant gag on his abilities. He understood the necessity of her working at the mansion, and definitely kept things controlled when there were tons of adolescent mutants with insane abilities. But too long in her presence? As nice as she was, it did feel a little restrictive. He was honestly glad they kept their interactions to a lunch and chit-chat before she headed off.
Once he was done with his 5-minute shower, Jorge exited, dried off, and changed into cleaner, more fitting clothing: jeans and a t-shirt. As he emerged from the hall, tugging his shirt down over stomach, he offered her another friendly smile as he stepped up to the table.
”What’s on the menu today, Ms. Taylor?” he asked inquisitively.
Member of the X-Men Mansion Swim Teacher MRC Detective
Seablue
Heterosexual
Married to Gemma
2,223
468
Apr 23, 2024 22:22:33 GMT -6
Jorge
Jorge smirked as he led Ms. Taylor into the apartment, clearing some room for her on the table so that she could place down whatever food she was bringing this week, he moved on past her, setting his book on a nearby table. He grinned at her comment, agreeing that home cooked food wasn’t fast food. Still, he felt a small need to defend his chosen choice of cuisine and shot her a faux-hurt look.
”Hey, those wrappers and microwaves pump the food with all sort of scientific waves packed with superpowered nutrients.” He shrugged. ”At least that’s what the Fast Food Council of Burgermen say. And who are they to lie?” He smirked and headed into the small kitchenette. ”Do you want anything to drink? Water? Tea? Coffee?”
The kitchenette was small, but there was easily enough space for him to move around. Opening the fridge he pulled out a bottle of water and some napkins. He knew how to be a good host, even if the person who was coming by was just doing so to drop off some food. Besides, sometimes Ms. Taylor stuck around and they got to chatting. He enjoyed the company. It was good to have someone to talk to who knew the man he had become, even if it was just in a comradery capacity.
Returning from the kitchen, he set down his bottle of water and the counselor’s choice of drink and some napkins. He glanced at her for a second, offering her a slight smile before he continued to set up the table. It was odd. He was growing used to her visits, even looking forward to them. Though he was frustrated by the decided lack of information she was giving him concerning his marital status, at least she was someone who understood what was happening.
Her presence was...comforting.
Stepping back from the table he glanced towards his bedroom. ”Um, I’ll wash up real quick. Stay for lunch?” he asked cautiously. ”I could use a friendly face today.”