Chapter 534

Xavier genuinely enjoyed drying Quinn's hair. To him, it felt like a deeply intimate act. His fingers could freely roam through her long hair as though their lives were intertwined.

She might have wanted to keep her distance, but he wasn't about to let go.

Once her hair was dry, he scooped her up and carried her to the bed. "Don't worry. I won't try anything tonight."

They were in the research institute, and he respected her boundaries here.

After tucking her in, Xavier lay down beside her, though he didn't cover himself with a blanket. "I'll leave once you're asleep. I keep my promises."

Even though he'd been stubborn about staying all night, now that he'd said he'd go, he meant it.

He hugged her along with the blanket. "Go to sleep." He knew she had trouble sleeping, so he just wanted to be there.

"Okay." This time, Quinn didn't argue. She was exhausted and quickly drifted off.

When he was sure she was deeply asleep, Xavier kissed her forehead gently before carefully getting