Chapter Fifty-seven: Perilous Passions

Xavier’s Point of View

I watched Rei as she slept. Although her face had a peculiar expression, she appeared to be sleeping peacefully. I struggled to figure out how I could explain everything to her without jeopardizing our relationship. Where did I even begin?

I had the day with her, though. Grace would stay with the kids and I could take my time working up the courage to tell Rei the truth. I dreaded having to tell Rei the truth, knowing it would cause her pain. My heart ached at the thought of hurting her in any way.

When Rei did wake up she hid her beautiful face on my chest. Why did she always feel so self-conscious around me? I needed to find a way to reassure Rei how beautiful she was to me, and that I truly loved her. I wish I had more time to do that before telling Rei the truth. I was running out of time.

I let Rei rest and went to the kitchen to make coffee and breakfast. I cooked scrambled eggs, toast, and a few crispy bacon strips. It was a welcome change to cook for someone else besides myself. The only other person I had ever cooked for was Lillianna. The thought of her made me sigh, and my shoulders droop.

It was necessary to end the friendship, especially after her behavior during our last conversation. She was so controlling and explosive... it was honestly frightening. I missed my friend, the one I could laugh and joke with without any fear. We had been best friends, and maybe it was my fault for not rejecting her when she first showed interest in me. I never thought Lillianna would develop feelings because she knew I was in love with Rei. It's always been Rei for me, and it always will be.

I realized it had been unnervingly silent. Lillianna was never one to let things go for too long, especially when she was upset. With Rei here, I knew Aamon would have someone watching my apartment. As much as I hated to admit it, I was grateful for the added security. I knew Lillianna wouldn’t hurt me, but I didn’t doubt Ethan Steele’s warning anymore that she would hurt Rei if given the chance.

After preparing everything, I went to get Rei for breakfast. She seemed lost in her thoughts. I couldn't help but wonder if she somehow knew what I needed to tell her. Of course, that was impossible. But her distant stare made me think otherwise as if she was struggling to make sense of something that just didn't add up.

“Hey, beautiful, breakfast is ready. Why don’t we eat first? Then we can shower and plan our day. I’m looking forward to spending the day with you,” I smiled as I extended my hand to help her out of bed.

Rei smiled at me, but her eyes were troubled. I hoped she would tell me what was wrong when she was ready.

She took my large hand in her small one and scooted out of my bed. Rei kept looking down at the t-shirt uncomfortably. Maybe she wanted a different T-shirt to wear.

“You look uncomfortable in that T-shirt. Did you want another one to wear?” I offered, and Rei’s eyes flooded with relief.

I went to my dresser and grabbed a clean shirt for her, handing it over. I took the one she had on and promptly tossed it into the hamper. I couldn't help but wonder what was bothering her. It didn't seem wet or anything, maybe just a little damp in the front.

Rei complimented my cooking again and repeatedly told me how nice it was to have someone cook for her. The simplest things made her happy.

“Was there anything in particular that you want to do today?” I asked Rei when she looked deep in thought again.

“It’s been so long since I've slept in without having to worry about taking care of my kids. Thank you for contacting Grace to make sure they were okay. I trust her completely with them. And if she had any plans or objections, my best friend would have let you know. She's an open book," Rei chuckled with a smile.

I forced a smile and took a sip of my coffee, avoiding meeting Rei's gaze. I wanted to savour every moment with her before she was gone. These memories would be all I had left if I lost her. Despite everything, I held onto hope that she would forgive me. It was all I could do.

“I’m not sure what to do. I’d be open to going somewhere if that’s what you wanted to do, but I’m happy to spend time with you here, too, if you’d like,” Rei said.

I suggested, "We could stay here for another night and shower together before settling in to watch another movie. Would you like that? I can drive you back tomorrow or... you could spend another night with me."

Rei remained silent, and I felt a pang of regret for bringing up the idea. But then she spoke up. "I would like that," she said, her voice hesitant yet sincere. "As long as Grace and the kids are okay with it." She paused, looking down at her hands before continuing. "It was... nice waking up next to someone. I apologize for my awkwardness; it's been a while since I shared a bed with anyone. But I truly have enjoyed every moment and being with you..." She trailed off, but a smile formed on her face, revealing her true feelings.

After we finished our breakfast, Rei insisted that we wash the dishes together. I didn't see the point at first, but as we chatted and worked, I began to understand why she enjoyed this task. It was a chance for us to have an easy conversation without any pressure. She shared little details about herself that I hadn't known before, and I opened up about my own life in return. It all felt comfortable and pleasant like we were getting to know each other better with every dish we dried and put away.

Lillianna’s Point of View

Xavier's motorcycle remained parked in front of his apartment, indicating he was home with Rei. It still surprised me that after all these years, he finally pursued her and ended up with her. I made a mental note of the security detail, carefully placed by Aamon to monitor their every move. I recognized the team and knew they were skilled, but not enough to outsmart me. All I had to do was wait for the right moment to sneak in as I had planned. Even though I no longer had a key, I had spent enough time at Xavier's place to know of other ways to get inside.