Chapter 72

The atmosphere in the kitchen thickened with tension as Steve departed, leaving Xavier and me to stare at one another, both of us seemingly awaiting the click of Steve's bedroom door as it closed behind him.

"Why are you two even interested in spying on the Crescent Walker pack, anyway? Regardless of whether a conflict is approaching, why should it matter to you?" I posed the question that had been weighing on my mind, deliberately leaving out the accusation that swirled within me—wondering if they stood to gain something from their involvement.

"Aadita, please understand that it would be better and safer for you if you remained unaware of anything further concerning that," Xavier implored, his eyes reflecting a sincere urgency that made me want to rush into his arms and breathe in his familiar scent. However, I stifled the urge.

It seemed as though he sensed my longing, as his arms twitched, perhaps wanting to embrace me back or possibly preparing to push me away