Chapter 3: Chains of Obsession
Xavier sat frozen, barely daring to breathe. The girl’s soft, eager gaze stayed locked on him, each second adding to the suffocating tension filling the room. She seemed oblivious to his discomfort, her hands clasped together as though savoring the moment.
"So," she murmured, her voice a dreamy sigh, "tell me, Xavier. What are we doing today? I’ve planned so many things we can do together."
"U-uh, actually," Xavier stammered, his mind scrambling for a way to stall, "I was going to head out for groceries. Running low on cat food." He gestured lamely at Jaffar, who lay sprawled nearby, eyes half-closed and completely oblivious.
"Oh! Let me come with you." She clapped her hands, a thrilled smile spreading across her face. "I’d love to see your usual spots. Imagine—walking side by side, picking out meals together..."
He forced a smile, nodding quickly. "Yeah... sounds nice. But actually, it’s kind of far. I usually bike."
"Perfect," she chirped. "I could sit right behind you, holding on while we ride. Just like in those romance novels!"
Xavier’s heart sank, realizing she was set on joining him, no matter how flimsy his excuses. He needed a new plan, and fast. "How about... I pick up the stuff we need, then come right back? That way, you can relax here with Jaffar."
The suggestion made her eyes narrow and her pupils resembled black holes, her lips pursing as she tilted her head. "You want to leave me behind?"
"No, no, just... I mean, I thought you’d like a break after your trip here." He forced another smile, hoping he sounded convincing. "Make yourself comfortable. I’ll be back in twenty minutes, tops."
"No~ I don’t wanna~" Alice cooed in a soft voice.
’Ugh! What do I do? I can’t let her continue to boss me around like this. I know! Let’s act a bit serious! That might just work.’ Xavier inwardly nodded his head in agreement.