In the following days, Xavier's presence at the academy became increasingly unsettling for Kai. Xavier seemed to blend seamlessly into student life, charming his way through the ranks and drawing admiration from many. However, his interactions with Seraphina continued to strike a nerve with Kai. Every glance, every casual smile Xavier directed at her felt like a silent challenge.
One afternoon, Kai and Seraphina were sitting in the courtyard, enjoying a rare moment of peace under a canopy of sunlit branches. Kai held her hand, tracing circles with his thumb as they chatted softly. But soon enough, that peace was interrupted as Xavier sauntered over, flashing a friendly but insincere grin.
"Mind if I join you two?" Xavier asked, though he was already taking a seat beside Seraphina, his eyes flicking between them with mild amusement.
Kai's expression tightened, but Seraphina placed a reassuring hand on his arm, silently encouraging him to remain calm.
"Xavier, right?" she asked politely, shifting closer to Kai in a subtle but clear gesture.
"That's right," Xavier replied, not missing a beat as he glanced between them. "I've heard some pretty incredible things about both of you." His gaze lingered on Seraphina. "Especially you, Seraphina."
Kai's jaw clenched, but he kept his tone steady. "She's pretty amazing," he agreed, his voice just a bit sharper than intended.
Xavier chuckled. "Lucky guy, huh?" he remarked, leaning back and letting his eyes settle on Seraphina once again. "It's rare to see such… loyalty in this place."
Seraphina met Xavier's gaze with a polite but disinterested smile, then turned her attention back to Kai, reaching for his hand and entwining her fingers with his. "I wouldn't trade him for anyone," she said firmly, her voice laced with an undeniable warmth as she looked at Kai.
For a brief moment, a shadow flickered across Xavier's face, and his smile tightened. But he quickly composed himself. "Well, I'll be around. Just thought I'd introduce myself properly. I'm sure we'll cross paths again."
As Xavier walked away, Kai's gaze followed him with suspicion. "I don't trust him one bit," Kai muttered, shaking his head. "He's hiding something."
Seraphina squeezed his hand, leaning her head on his shoulder. "Then we'll keep an eye on him together. I'm by your side, always," she whispered.
Later that evening, Xavier continued his silent provocations. During a gathering in the main hall, Kai noticed Xavier watching them from across the room. Seraphina, sensing his discomfort, leaned up and pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek, an open display of her affection.
"I don't care who watches," she murmured. "They can say what they want. My heart belongs to you, Kai."
The warmth of her words melted away Kai's tension, grounding him in the unwavering bond they shared. He wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close as they watched Xavier disappear into the crowd, knowing that their love would face trials, but that they'd stand together through whatever came next.