Chapter 34

I remained hesitant about seeking out Xavier at the lake. My persistent crush only heightened my apprehension. The thought of upsetting or angering him unsettled me deeply. The idea of facing his potential cruelty or typical male behavior loomed as a daunting possibility.

While I hadn't experienced heartache in the romantic sense, the sounds of female distress in the school bathrooms served as a stark reminder of the pain I wished to avoid. What if he treated me like the other guys?

Despite not witnessing any resemblance between Xavier and the school's male population, certain reactions from him had instilled fear within me. Even when not directed at me, his demeanor had elicited physical reactions - raising the hairs on my neck, causing goosebumps to surface, and inducing tremors. I knew I wanted to steer clear of any such negativity.

After pacing back and forth between tree trunks, I resolved to go. If Xavier didn't wish to see me, I would respect his choice and