XAVIER'S POV

The shoot ended, but the buzz lingered in the air like static. Light stands were being folded down, camera lenses capped, and stylists whisking away designer pieces like precious gems. Clarisse gave me a firm nod as she packed her makeup brushes. I pulled off the crisp black jacket they'd styled me in and loosened the collar of my shirt, finally breathing freely.

"Xavier!" Marco's voice boomed from across the venue.

I turned just in time for him to clap a hand on my back like ...