The air in the car thickened, Xavier's growl vibrating through the confined space but Athena didn't back down. Her voice shook with equal parts of rage and vulnerability.
"You think I don't see it? You think I don't feel how you burn every time Kraven so much as looks at me? Maybe it's not protection, Xavier. Maybe it's just… jealousy."
For the first time since she stepped into his world, Xavier didn't immediately strike back with words. His stare pinned her in place, unreadable but beneath the icy fury something flickered… hurt.
His voice finally came, rough and low. "You think this is jealousy?" He leaned in, so close she could feel his breath against her skin. "Athena, if Kraven finds out what you are, if anyone finds out… you won't live to see another sunrise. That's not jealousy. That's survival for you and me."
Xavier's restraint snapped.
