My childhood memories were filled with Xavier protecting me. I remembered Xavier was a robust, spirited boy, so much so that my father often worried he was too wild—a trait my mother laughingly claimed was inherited from Isla. He had once lived with us for a year or two because he was suspended from

"Did you eat yet? I can—" Sensing what she was about to say, I cut in sharply, "I'll have the servants prepare us a palatable meal." How could she offer to cook for another man? I've not even bothered her with cooking for me. "I insist," Ezinne countered, her voice holding a determined edg

Xavier's laughter peeled across the now silent table, echoing like a mocking taunt. My muscles tensed, a primal tremor of barely contained rage vibrating through me. I was on the brink, every instinct screaming to bolt across the table and tackle him. But I restrained myself, holding back the floodg

~Ezinne~ Several days had passed since that iconic breakfast, and Malik still had not spoken to me. At least he was now sleeping in his bed, and as much as I hated to admit it, I enjoyed the body heat we shared. Each night, we would turn away from each other as we lay down, but by morning, I

Ange and I had recently begun practising sword fighting, with Rhea often observing. I hadn’t been particularly focused in our previous sessions, but today felt different. Maybe it was Malik’s presence in the gym that stirred a newfound nervousness in me, making me want to prove myself. But it was re