"Back off, Ziro," Xavier asserted firmly, snatching Haliya away from him protectively. He pushed Ziro aside, trying to put some distance between them.
Ziro's trademark smirk only grew wider, reveling in Xavier's irritation. "What's the matter, Xav?" he taunted, using the nickname that always seemed to get under Xavier's skin.
Frustration surged through Xavier's veins as he clenched his fists, ready to defend Haliya at any cost. With a swift and graceful move, he pulled Haliya back, ensuring they were safely out of Ziro's reach, putting a significant distance between them.
Ziro, ever the master of manipulation, just like his father, couldn't resist playing his cards. He dangled a tempting offer before Haliya like a puppeteer pulling the strings. "Do you want to know about your mother?" h
