Xavier's POV
After a few minutes of silence, Carrick finally returned. He easily balanced a tray in one hand as three mugs of ale clinked together. He set them down on the table and flashed a smile as bright as ever.
"There you go, boys. Strong enough to put hair on your chest, or take it off, depending." He winked and leaned against the edge of the table, folding his arms. "Now, tell me. Where are you from? Passing through? Or are you planning to stick around our little village for a while?"
Xavier felt Magnus shift beside him, clearly about to speak. But Carrick's sharp gaze locked on him instead.
Testing me, Xavier thought. He wants to know who we are.
"I—" Xavier began, keeping his voice measured.
But before he could continue, the restaurant door slammed open.
One of his warriors strode inside, his face grim. His chest heaved as though he'd run the entire way. His eyes locked onto Beta Xavier instantly.
