“Protect me? Protect me?” I laughed bitterly.

He stared at me, his eyes pleading with me to understand, but it was too late for that. Everything he did was confusing, and I could never trust him again.

“How are you protecting me, Xavier, huh? By not standing by my side when I actually need you? And who are you protecting me from exactly? What scares you so much?” I asked in vexation, my entire form trembling with rage.

“They are things that are better left hidden for your sake, Leah,” he said with a sigh. He watched me for a while longer, studying my features.

My gaze watched him sharply,...