The night deepened, bathing the room in a warm, golden glow from the flickering fire. Magnus’s arm was still draped over Meredith's shoulders, his fingers tracing small, lazy circles on her arm. He leaned in closer as he whispered into her ear, his lips hovering near hers.
"You're the heart of us, Meredith. Do you know that?" His voice was husky, low, as though even speaking the words stirred something deep within him. "I don't know what we'd do without you."
She felt his minty breath against her lips, sending a shiver down her spine. Her pulse quickened, her heart fluttering.
"I feel the same, Magnus. I need you all… more than you know."
Xavier moved toward her, his arm brushing hers as his fingertips traced a line along her jaw.
"It's not just need, Meredith," he murm
