Chapter 63

Settling back down at the table, I pulled a pretzel from the bag. I placed half of it in my mouth, pursing my lips around the delectable treat. Lost in thought, I savored the chocolate coating, noticing how Xavier's nostrils flared, his gaze never leaving my lips. I reveled in the knowledge that I was having an effect on him, something profound and gratifying.

"Could you share your experiences with your first transformations?" I requested, eager to hear their stories.

Steve launched into a narrative of his first transformation, recounting the overwhelming fear he felt, as he had been among the first in his age group to undergo such a change. It had been a topic scarcely discussed, and his mentor had only just begun to guide him. He described how he had raced to his parents in tears, consumed by the belief that he was dying.

A smile crept onto my face at the thought of a young Steve, frantically running to his parents, who had undoubtedly adored him and would fight