Without warning, Xavier kicked a nearby chair toward Dave, causing it to slam into the back of his legs with a muffled 'thud.'
Dave jumped in surprise, glaring back at Xavier, who wore a taunting grin.
Xavier walked up to Rafael's bedside, standing just beside Hera.
He then placed a hand on top of her head and began gently petting her hair, his demeanor calm and possessive as he subtly asserted his presence.
They began to explain everything to Rafael, recounting the events that had unfolded and how Hera had managed to track him down.
Rafael listened silently, his expression unreadable. Only he knew what was going on in his mind.
When they finished recounting the story—mostly Dave, who animatedly gestured to add more impact—Hera felt as though she were hearing about someone else's experience rather than her own.
