Xavier remained silent, offering only a slight, curt nod.
As Chloe began preparing the noodles, she could feel his heavy presence. Xavier stood just outside the kitchen, his silhouette framed by the doorway, watching her every move. Chloe figured he must be starving, hence the icy stare meant to silently pressure her into hurrying. Or perhaps, she thought with a flicker of cynicism, he was watching to make sure she didn't lace his broth with poison.
Whether it was his overwhelming aura or her own lingering nerves, her hands weren't as steady as usual. While chopping the scallions, the knife slipped, nearly taking a slice out of her finger.
Chloe looked up at him, her frustration bubbling over. "Could you... wait outside for a moment? Please?"
Xavier gave her a long, unreadable look bef
