Chapter Eighty Five

Xena Remington

Lying in bed, the soft glow of the bedside lamp enveloping us, I felt a whirlwind of emotions swirling within me. The echoes of yesterday's family dinner still resonated in my mind, and I knew I had to talk to Axel about it.

Shifting my gaze to him, I sought refuge in his warm eyes. "Axel, can we discuss what happened yesterday?"

His concern was palpable, his touch a soothing caress against my cheek. "Of course, Xena. I sensed there was something on your mind."

Summoning my courage, I began, "My family really loved the house, especially my parents. It made me feel proud and happy, but..."

His reassuring smile encouraged me to continue. "But what's been bothering you, love? You know you can share anything with me."

Inhaling deeply, I released my thoughts, "its Fiona. I can't shake off this worry that she might try to flirt with you or create tension. She's always had this way of getting under my skin. I just... I don't want her to ruin what we have."

His eyes softened, h