Lyra’s POV

I look at him and ask, "Kessler, is there something you're not telling me about the woman contacting Xavier? I know Kayla isn't my mother, but what about Xavier? I always assumed he had one."

Kessler's expression shifts through a range of emotions, ones I can't quite decipher. He steps closer and plants a gentle kiss on my forehead.

I melt into his touch, the question slipping from my mind. "Lyra, it's late and I'm tired, we'll talk more tomorrow. I want Xavier to be there as well,” he says softly.

His suggestion piques my interest. I want to protest, knowing sleep will be elusive with so much...