AT THE SAME EVENING
XAVIER'S POINT OF VIEW:
Lisa and Lina had insisted on preparing a room for Wanessa. I had half a mind to argue that she could stay with me, but I figured pushing too much too fast would only make her more guarded. Her room was one of the best in the house, second only to mine. The fireplace crackled softly, glowing warmly over the soft furs and silk sheets. When Lisa and Lina finally left, I knew I wouldn't be able to stay away long. And neither could she. I found her outside my door not even an hour later.
"Can't sleep?" I leaned against the doorway, smirking slightly.
She folded her arms, shifting on her feet.
"I—no, I just…" Her amber eyes flickered with something uncertain. "I wanted to talk."