It would be stupid of me to get attached to Xavier. It would be reckless and painful and—I shake my head, willing myself to push those thoughts away as I step into the house. I take the stairs two at a time, desperate to get away before the emotions catch up to me.

Once I reach my room, I strip off my clothes and step into the shower. The hot water cascades over me, but it does nothing to ease the tension in my shoulders. I focus on my hair, scrubbing with more force than necessary. If I let my mind wander, if I let myself think about Xavier, it would only make it harder to walk away.