A different Xavier

Cathleen's long lashes fluttered open, revealing a soft, pale light that sliced across the unfamiliar sheets. Her heart began to race as she frantically looked around the room, desperately trying to remember where she was. Panic clawed at her throat like sharp claws, threatening to consume her. But then, a dim memory rose to the surface and slowly softened the edges of her fear. Bella. Grandfather's unexpected visit. The pieces slowly fell into place as she took a deep breath and tried to calm herself. The room smelled of fresh linen and lavender, the sunlight filtering in through sheer curtains like flecks of gold dust dancing on the walls. She could hear birds chirping outside, their cheerful melody bringing a sense of peace to her anxious mind. With each passing moment, Cathleen felt more and more at ease.

She rolled over on the bed, and she froze.

A line of moisture glistened on Xavier's sharply defined cheek, evidence of a single tear that had fallen. It seemed impossible. Xavier