THE CONTRACTED HEARTS - Ties of Fate

Maxine chuckled softly, brushing Mike's hair back. "Good night, Mike."

Xavier didn't say anything, his dark eyes watching the boy like a hawk. Once he was sure Mike was fast asleep, Xavier made his move.

He carefully slid out of bed and walked around to the other side, where Maxine lay. With deliberate precision, he scooped her up-blankets and all-and shifted her to the far side of the bed, away from Mike.

"Xavier!" Maxine whispered in alarm, stirring slightly but still groggy. "What are you doing?"

"Shh," he murmured, settling in next to her. His hand slowly went inside for her top and then rested on her bare waist.

"Xavier, stop-"

"Go to sleep," he whispered, his voice low and commanding.

Maxine was too drowsy to argue, her body melting into the warmth of his embrace. She barely registered his hand brushing against her bare waist, his fingertips trailing lazily across her skin.

Xavier tightened his grip, his face buried in the crook of her neck where he pecked her. His breathing was steady, but there was a sense of vulnerability in the way he held her-as though she were a lifeline he didn't want to let go of.