Daphne’s POV

I blinked, caught between relief and disbelief. My words wouldn’t come fast enough, and Xavier didn’t push.

He just… waited. Watching me. Steady. Calm. Like he’d always known I’d find my footing, like nothing could shake him.

I hadn’t realized how much I’d needed that. Someone who didn’t demand explanations. Someone who just… understood.

His question followed me long after I walked away. It lingered in my chest, curling in places I didn’t want it to reach.

I ...