*****
Xavier gently ran his fingers through his wife's hair as they talked. He knew he would be leaving the house tonight, and it wouldn't be easy. Xena had made it clear earlier that she didn't agree with his decision, and if he pushed, it would only make her more upset.
She wasn't someone who usually went against him. She had always listened, always done what he asked without question. But when Xena said no, she meant it, and nothing he said could change that. Tonight was one of those nights.
"Who is this new enemy?" she asked quietly. Her head rested on his chest as she spoke, her voice calm but curious. "It sounds like someone strong. What really happened that this person can't let you go?"
