Xavier

The car's engine purred to life as we settled in for the drive home. Alice sat close, her presence warming my side. Lexi climbed into the backseat, his eyes growing dull with exhaustion.

A glance at her revealed a faint shiver, her shoulders trembling slightly. The cold had finally caught up with her. My hand reached for the heater controls, cranking up the warmth. As the air vents blew gentle heat, I shed my jacket, draping it over her shoulders.

"I'm fine, I'm fine," she protested, her voice weak.

"No," I objected, a heavy glint in my eyes. "Just be quiet and put this on."

Her eyes met mine,...