If you only knew...

22.Unattainable

Xavier's POV

After what seemed like an eternity, I finally find myself stepping outside, craving the sensation of fresh air kissing my skin and the opportunity to bask in the beauty of the trees that stay tall around me. The sharp, invigorating chill of the wind, a hint of autumn creeping in as September comes to a close, sweeps across my face, awakening my senses in a way that felt almost foreign after my time indoors.

Being cooped up in that stark hospital room had felt like a never-ending nightmare, yet, I considered myself fortunate; Nate had been my anchor. He managed to visit me regularly, often slipping away from his demanding assignments just to spend precious moments by my side. Our conversations, filled with laughter and stories, had provided a much-needed escape from my reality, reminding me that the world outside still existed and that I wasn't alone in this fight.

As I take a deep breath, a sharp sensation reminds me of the pain nestled in my left side. The wound, though bandaged, still burns with a persistent ache, its healing process dragging out longer than I had hoped. The doctor warned me that it could take months before I feel anything resembling normal again, leaving me with a sense of frustration.

As I slowly make my way toward the yard, I hear a familiar voice call out behind me. It cuts through the air, drawing my attention,

"I'll go easy on you with the next assignments," my boss says, stepping closer and giving my shoulder a reassuring pat. A hint of concern flickers in his eyes. "You can take a few more days off until I have some lighter work for you."

I chuckle, the irony not lost on me. "I was hoping to have one tonight," I reply, and he laughs in response.

Once in my bedroom, I hastily pack my luggage. I'm desperate to get away for a few days, just enough time to clear my head. Bills are waiting at my rented flat—and my father's surgery one, too. Just as I grab my backpack and head for the door, my phone buzzes to life.

"You forgot about dad's bill?!" I can hear my sister's disappointed voice on the phone, her tone sharp and frustrated.

"No, I'll take care of it today," I respond, trying to keep my tone steady.

"You were supposed to handle that last week. You could have told me you weren't planning to help," she raises her voice, her anger palpable.

"Jen, I really couldn't make it to the bank. Work has been... overwhelming. I'm sorry. I'm heading there now," I say softly, hoping to soothe her.

"Are you okay? Did something happen?" Her tone shifts, concern creeping in as she detects something beneath my words.

I never wanted to drag her into my struggles, I avoided contacting her even on that terrible night when I truly needed someone. Her husband has always been skeptical of her helping me, thinking I'm more trouble than I'm worth. But if she's happy with him, I can live with it.

"I'm fine," I assure her, my voice wavering slightly. "I'll text you after I make the transfer," I add, before hanging up, feeling the weight of it all.

As I make my way to my car, I hear Nate's voice calling out to me, halting my steps.

"Hey, where do you think you're off to?" he asks with a grin. "I was really hoping we could grab a bite to eat together now that you're finally out," he says, his voice a mix of seriousness and an unmistakable demand.

I hesitate, biting my lip. "Well, I have some stuff to take care of..." But I can't help but add, "I guess I can squeeze in a meal," not wanting to let him down after everything he's done for me.

As we stroll toward the agency's dining restaurant, my eyes dart around, hoping to catch a glimpse of Ana. I shake my head at myself—What's behind this intense longing to see her again?? But the truth is, I miss her wild spirit.