Illegally His!!??

XXIX

Xavier's POV:

As Lucian walked away, leaving Meera standing there, I felt a knot tighten in my stomach. I had been watching the exchange, my heart pounding with each word they shared. The air was thick with unspoken emotions, and it gnawed at me.

"Are you okay?" I asked, stepping closer to Meera. I could see the turmoil in her eyes—the conflict that mirrored my own feelings of frustration and concern.

She took a deep breath, attempting to compose herself. "I... I don't know, Xavier. Lucian just—he came to apologize. He wants things to go back to how they were."

I clenched my jaw, trying to mask my irritation. I had seen how Lucian looked at her, how their shared history weighed heavily between them. 

"And how do you feel about that?" I asked, keeping my tone steady, though I could feel my protectiveness flaring.

"I care about him," she admitted, her voice barely a whisper. "But I also know it's not that simple. He thinks I'm just a kid. He thinks I belong with you."

A wave of possessiveness surged through me, mixed with a strange sense of relief. "You're not a kid, Meera. You're stronger than that. You deserve to make your own choices, regardless of what he thinks."

Her gaze met mine, and I could see the vulnerability in her eyes. "But what if he's right? What if I'm meant to be with you?"

I could feel my heart race at her words, but a part of me hesitated. I didn't want to be the reason she felt trapped or conflicted. 

"You need to follow your heart, even if that means exploring what you feel for Lucian. Just know that I'm here for you, no matter what."

She nodded, but I could see the uncertainty lingering in her expression. "I'm just... scared. Scared of making the wrong choice."

I stepped closer, trying to convey my sincerity. "It's okay to be scared. You're not alone in this. Just remember that I care about you, and I want you to be happy—whatever that looks like."

There was a moment of silence, and I reached out to gently cup her chin, lifting her gaze to meet mine. "Take your time, Meera. Figure out what you want. But don't let Lucian—or anyone else—define your worth or your future."

As I let my hand drop, I could see the flicker of hope in her eyes, mixed with the weight of the decision she faced. I knew that the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but I was willing to stand by her side as she navigated her feelings. My heart ached for her, but I also felt a surge of determination.

Whatever happened next, I would protect her, even if it meant letting her explore the connection she had with Lucian.

Meera's POV:

Ever since that night, Xavier has been surprisingly attentive to my likes and dislikes. Despite his intimidating demeanor, he's started to open up about his life, his past, his childhood—things I never imagined he’d share with anyone.

He’s even organized small candlelit dinners, movie nights, and sometimes we just take a quiet walk through his garden after dinner.

He's not as heartless as he seems.

I recently overheard some of the staff talking about his charity work for underprivileged children and his contributions to women’s safety initiatives.

Maybe he isn’t so bad after all.

Lucian, on the other hand, has slipped back into his cold, professional persona. But at least we’re no longer ignoring each other. After a long exchange of apologies, we decided to move forward and leave the past where it belongs.

So now, Lucian is just a friend. It still stings a little, but I know it’s for the best.

And honestly, Xavier makes me happy. I think…

I think I’m falling for him.

I, Meera Luthra, am falling for the devil himself.