Page 55 of My Rise

“Dylan?” Xavier interrupts, approaching us with a displeased expression. “What's this about Dylan being our bouncer?"

“It’s just a thought,” I say smoothly. “I don’t even know if he’ll be interested, but Dylan has the skills, and having someone with connections at City Hall could be useful for our security."

"Useful, huh? You're bringing him into our world, Vanessa. This isn't just about security."

Alex turns defensive. "Xavier, calm down. Vanessa's just considering options. We all need to be on the same page."

"I don't like it. Bringing outsiders in is a risk."

“We’re all on the same team here,” I say firmly. “Bringing Dylan in isn't a decision I take lightly, but we need someone we can trust. I believe Dylan is that person."

"You seem to be inviting more complications into our lives." Xavier sounds skeptical.

"Complications are part of the game we're in. Dylan has skills we can use, and having an insider at City Hall is an advantage we can't ignore, but I won't proceed if either of you is strongly against it."

"I agree with Vanessa. We need to be strategic, and Dylan could be an asset. Xavier, we should trust Vanessa's judgment."

Xavier eyes me and flares his nostrils. “A moment, Vanessa?”

I nod and follow him to a small alcove, away from prying eyes.

“You’ve been avoiding me,” he murmurs.

“I haven’t been out on a date with Dylan.”

“I miss you.”

“I miss you too.”

He brushes his fingers over my lips. “I don’t want to lose you.”

“Xavier, are you afraid?”

“Maybe.”

The coldness in his eyes has melted, replaced by a burning hot fire that threatens to burn me alive.

“I’m not going anywhere,” I promise him.

“I want you in my bed.”

“Now isn’t?—”

“The time, I know. It’s not.”

“Maybe soon?”

“Xavier…”

He places a hand on my chest, not trying to feel me up, just touching me. “Your heart is racing,” he murmurs. “You still want me.”

“There’s never been a question of that,” I murmur.

“But you want others.”

“Xavier…”

He steps back. “Fine. See if he’ll come on, but if this backfires, don't say I didn't warn you."

---