Zeke didn't say a word, but his hold on Claire tightened, pulling her a little closer.
"Oh," Xavier said, rubbing the back of his neck as a faint smile formed. "I should've let you know first before dropping by." His eyes briefly showed a hint of disappointment, but it disappeared just as quickly.
Xavier should've known. Things weren't the same anymore, not like when they were in Switzerland. Back then, he could come and go freely, seeing Cassidy and Claire whenever he wanted. Back then, Claire only had him.
But now, Zeke was here. Her real father. And whether he liked it or not, his place in Claire's heart was slowly being replaced.
Just as the silence stretched, Claire suddenly chirped, "Come with us, Uncle Xavi!"
Xavier's chest tightened. So she did still remember him. At least a little.
But then his eyes met Zeke's. Zeke was watching him closely. There was no need for words. Zeke's stare was enough to make the message clear. Don't step over that line.
