Xavier's grip on Iris's hand was unyielding, his calm presence a sharp contrast to the fear in her eyes. He stared at Michael, the kidnapper, with a smirk that was both defiant and chilling. Michael's face contorted with frustration as he raised his gun, aiming it directly at Xavier.

Xavier's smirk remained, his confidence unwavering. Giving him the very first reaction, which made him shiver a little.

"Did you really think you had Xavier Knight on his knees with this fucking plan? Delusional, aren't you?"

Michael's anger boiled over. "Shut up!" he snapped, his finger tightening on the trigger.

Xavier took a slow, deliberate step forward, his smile never faltering. "Let me put a few of my bullets into breaking your delusions," Xavier taunted, his voice dripping with disdain.