Chapter 158 Xavier Competing for Attention
Hera and Leo strolled through the village, warmly greeting villagers and introducing Leo to their community. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, brimming with happiness and seemingly endless topics. They appeared completely engrossed in each other’s company as if they could talk for hours without ever running out of things to say.
Leo was, essentially, an exceptional listener. He allowed Hera to express herself freely, indulging in topics she found most enjoyable. Occasionally, he interjected with insightful comments, signaling to Hera that he truly comprehended her perspective and shared her sentiments. Yet, Leo genuinely relished absorbing Hera’s experiences, perspectives, and the unfolding narratives she shared.
Unbeknownst to them, nearly two hours had passed as Hera and Leo wandered through the village, engrossed in conversation. Suddenly, Hera felt a firm yet gentle tug at the hem of her shirt from behind. It was as though someone sought her attention, eager to divert her focus.
Hera suddenly recalled Xavier’s presence, realizing she had inadvertently shifted most of her attention to Leo. While Xavier had always enjoyed listening to Hera’s stories, he now felt overshadowed and overlooked because of Leo, the newcomer. His aggrieved expression was very visible, evident in the slight pout of his lips and the droop of his eyelashes as he openly displayed his feelings to Hera.
Observing Xavier’s dejected demeanor, Hera couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt. Reflecting on the situation, she realized she had inadvertently neglected Xavier in her engrossing conversation with Leo. Before she could express her apologies, however, Leo spoke up. "Mr. Montague, are you feeling bored and ready to head back already?"
With Leo’s words, it was clear that he wanted to send Xavier away so he could have alone time with Hera, yet his expression also did not betray genuine concern for Xavier’s feelings. Hera couldn’t shake the feeling that Xavier might indeed be feeling bored, especially since he had been silently trailing behind without much interaction. While Hera understood Xavier’s reserved nature and penchant for wit, she also sensed his potential dissatisfaction with the situation.
So she thought that Xavier was just enjoying listening or was super bored but now that she heard what Leo said, she also thought that it was possible, only if she did not see what Xavier looked like, so she was having a hard time telling which is which.
"Brother Xavier, are you getting tired?" Hera decided to address Xavier directly, hoping to clarify the situation.
Xavier pursed his lips, seemingly struggling to express himself, but Hera patiently awaited his response. However, Leo appeared unwilling to give Xavier the opportunity to speak. Sensing Leo’s imminent interjection, Xavier spoke up, determined not to be sidelined.