The door closed after Xavier and Sasha disappeared down the hall, leaving the dining room in silence. Cody leaned back in his chair, a slow smirk forming on his lips. He tilted his glass lazily, swirling the red wine inside before taking one last sip. Stella, sitting beside him, finally lifted her gaze. For a few seconds, the tension hung between them, then Cody let out a low chuckle. Stella covered her mouth, trying to hide her smile, but it broke free until both of them were laughing softly. "You saw that too, didn't you?" Cody said, shaking his head with amusement. "The way he followed her out like he was ready to explode." Stella arched her brow. "Please. Everyone could see it. Xavier has no poker face when it comes to Sasha. He tries, but..." She laughed again, lowering her voice.

