Back in the meeting room, Kraven's sharp eyes flicked immediately to the flushed look on Athena's face… and the uncharacteristic softness lingering in Xavier's expression.
Suspicion darkened his gaze. What did she do to him?
Athena avoided both their stares, walking straight back to her seat beside Dr. Gary. "Now," she said firmly, gathering her composure, "let's get back to the discussion."
Athena straightened her shoulders, her voice steady as she addressed the room. "Dr. Gary and I will begin the research tomorrow. The earlier we start, the sooner we can understand what we're dealing with."
Kraven leaned back in his chair, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Good. The sooner, the better. Which means…" His eyes lingered on Athena just a fraction too long before flicking to Xavier, deliberate, mocking. "…we'll be seeing each other more often now."
The jab wasn't lost on Xavier. His jaw ticked, but he said nothing.
