29.

Xavier’s footsteps echoed in the dim hallway as he left the auditorium, Angelina’s words from her poem circling his mind like an endless loop. Her verses had struck a raw nerve he hadn’t expected, a haunting reminder of emotions he’d long buried. He pressed his back against the wall, staring at the ground, trying to calm his racing heart.

“Why would she say all that?” he muttered, running a hand through his hair. “What did she mean by… holding me?”

Every word felt like it was meant for him, drawing him closer to a truth he wasn’t sure he was ready to face. He’d always thought of Angelina as his friend, someone he could trust and protect. But lately, that boundary felt flimsy, like he was teetering on the edge of something far more dangerous.

Before he could process further, a familiar voice interrupted his thoughts.

“Xavier, there you are!” Mark called, striding over with a concerned expression. “You alright, man? You look… rattled.”