Chapter 22 A Dirty Secret

• “Are you ashamed of me?” I asked, bearing my vulnerability, with tears forming in my eyes.
• “Never.” Xavier’s words trailed off as he reached out to hold my hand, his own eyes filled with emotion. “I just want to protect you and us from any potential threats,” he added softly.
• “You put your trust in me, and I promise to always stand by your side, no matter what challenges come our way,” he assured me, squeezing my hand gently. “Just for the time being, don’t let anyone know that you are mate, and let me handle any potential dangers that may arise.”