CHAPTER 35
Dami's POV
I sat beside Xavier's hospital bed, his pale face a stark contrast to his usual vibrant self. My eyes drifted to the monitors beeping steadily, tracking his vital signs. Unconscious, but stable. The doctor's words echoed in my mind, but I couldn't shake the feeling of responsibility. If only I had been faster, more vigilant. Xavier wouldn't be lying here. Guilt gnawed at me, a relentless companion since the shooting. Luna's quiet sobs across the room broke my trance. I stood, walked over to her, and wrapped my arms around her shoulders. "He'll pull through, Luna," I whispered. She looked up, red-rimmed eyes searching for reassurance. "You think so?" I nodded, trying to convince myself as much as her. Xavier had to survive. For Luna, for Andre, for all of us. The door creaked open, and Jessica entered with a gentle smile. "Any change?" she asked. I shook my head. Jessica placed a comforting hand on Luna's arm. "We're all here for him, for you." Luna's tears flowed anew, and I held her close. In this moment, I vowed to protect Xavier, to ensure his safety. No matter the cost. Hours blurred together as I kept watch over Xavier. Luna's tears had dried, replaced by determination. Jessica stepped out to coordinate with Desmond's security team, ensuring the hospital's safety. I stayed, refusing to leave Xavier's side. The beeping monitors and occasional nurse visits were the only sounds. Xavier's chest rose and fell, steady but shallow. My thoughts drifted to the attack. What's her next move now that Xavier is hospitalized? Cassandra's surely wouldn't give up, but I pushed away the thoughts. Not now. A faint movement caught my eye.
Xavier's eyelids fluttered. "Luna!" I whispered urgently. She rushed to his side, grasping his hand. "Xavier?" she called softly. His eyes opened, unfocused. "Dami?" he whispered, voice barely audible. I smiled, relief washing over me. "Welcome back, brother." Xavier's gaze shifted to Luna, and a faint smile crossed his lips. "Andre?" Luna's tears returned, joyful this time. "He's safe, Xavier. He's waiting for you." Xavier's eyes drifted shut, exhaustion taking over. But he was back.
We had a long road ahead, but Xavier was fighting. And I would fight alongside him.
(Cassandra's POV)
The President's aide escorted me to his office, his expression stern. "Cassandra, have a seat," the President said, his voice firm but measured. I complied, my hands clasped together. "Cassandra, I'm sure you're aware of Xavier's attack," he began. "I am," I replied, maintaining a neutral tone. The President leaned forward, his eyes piercing. "Do you have any information regarding the perpetrators?" I met his gaze, unwavering. "None, sir. The President's eyes narrowed. "Cassandra, I need to ask this directly: were you involved in Xavier's attack?" My expression turned incredulous. "Of course not, Mr. President," I protested. "How can you expect me to benefit from Xavier's accident?" The President's scrutiny lingered, searching for deceit. "I expect cooperation, Cassandra. Any information you withhold will be considered treason." I inclined my head.
"I understand, sir. I assure you, my loyalty remains unwavering." The President's gaze held mine for an uncomfortable moment before nodding. "Very well. For now, you're cleared. But mark this, Cassandra: If evidence surfaces linking you to this attack… There will be consequences." I rose, my composure intact. "Understood, Mr. President." As I exited the office, my phone buzzed: "Meet still on? Midnight. Warehouse." Desmond's message. My response: "I'll be there." The game was far from over.