'Xavier?'

When he didn't bulge, she tried to risk a glance to the back to check what had him stiff.

'Don't look, Diane' an iciness that hasn't been part of his mood all evening rang loudly in his voice. He slowly pushed his chair up and stood up. Almost at the same time, gasps were heard all over. Diane's stomach churned painfully. Whatever is happening?. She tried to reach him through the mind link. He blocked her out. His eyes unblinking at whatever is behind her.

'Ace..' His jaw clenched as ...