AT THE SAME TIME
ISABELLA
Xavier moved first. He crossed the cafe in long, controlled strides, the kind that looked calm only because he was holding himself back with both hands. He stopped at Aiden's table, shadow falling over the sunlight.
"Aiden." Xavier said, voice smooth, too smooth. "Didn't know you drank coffee like this."
Aiden looked up slowly. He didn't stiffen, he didn't stand up. He just met Xavier's gaze.
"I didn't know I needed permission." He replied.
That was it, the air sharpened. I set the cup I was holding down a little too hard.
"Xavier." I said. "Don't-"
He didn't look at me.
"This isn't your scene." Xavier continued. "You have always liked inserting yourself where you don't belong."
"Funny. I was invited."Aiden tilted his head.
Michael appeared out of nowhere, tray in hand, eyes already panicking.
"Hey." He said quickly, smiling like this was all very normal. "Guys. Gentlemen. Let's not do whatever this is."
