"Okay Charles, let's put our cards on the table." Kyler's paced around the room as she spoke. Her irritation was apparent. She wanted to know what was going on. She and Remy had just arrived at the mansion when Bobby informed them that Charles wished to see Remy in his study. Remy gave her a quick kiss before he left to meet Xavier. He had been smoldering with anger when he left Charles' study half an hour later. Kyler decided to give him some time alone. She knocked on the study door determined to get some answer from the headman himself.

"Very well, Kyler, where would you like to start?" Charles watched her pace the room. Her agitation beat at him in waves. Perhaps explaining his concerns would aid the situation. Her present state wouldn't be beneficial.

"I am here because you want to protect me. I know that. I can even accept that. I CAN'T accept not being a partner. I need to know I am contributing. I want access to any and all information you have on Essex." She turned to look at him. His expression was unreadable. Bet he wins lots of poker games with that look. She stopped pacing and sat down in a chair near his desk. She refused to fidget while she waited for his reply.

He wondered how to respond to this new development. "I would prefer for my team to manage Mr.Essex." He held up one hand in a silencing gesture when she started to argue. "I can see that my preferences are not agreeable to you. Therefore, I will allow you access to our files. There will be a meeting in the war room at four o'clock this afternoon. We will be discussing our first actions dealing with Sinister." Kyler shudder at the name. She preferred the name Essex to Sinister; it didn't sound quite as evil.

"I'll try to be updated for the meeting. Thank you." Kyler looked down at her hands. She was half-afraid of the answer to her question. Taking a deep breath, she asked. "Charles," she hesitated. "Did your discussion with Remy have anything to do with me?"

"Yes." He knew he couldn't skirt this issue. "I don't think his involvement with you is appropriate."

"I see." She met his gaze directly. "Do my feelings count?" She leaned forward as if to place more emphases on her words. "If you are concerned for my welfare, don't be. Remy and I are consenting adults. Trust us enough to be able to handle whatever develops." She sat back in the chair. "Is there a policy about mingling with the guests I am unaware of?"

"No." He had to admit to himself that she had a point. Remy had assured him earlier that his and Kyler's relationship was separate from the situation with Sinister. However, he was not comfortable with this direction. "You are correct. You're both adults. I won't interfere."

Kyler stood up while she spoke. "Thank you again." She stood there for a few moments not sure how to put her thoughts into words. "I won't hurt him, Charles. I just want the opportunity to get to know him." At Charles' nod of understanding, she left the room to search for Remy.

To be continued..