The narrative unfolds as a contemporary retelling of the Christ story, with Xavier depicted as a saintlike figure whose presence and ultimate sacrifice aim to reignite love among the disenchanted. Xavier delays his journey to the seminary, opting instead to accompany Jean home due to an inexplicable pull towards those around him who seem in need of his aid. This decision places him at the center of a complex web of emotions, inciting both desire and envy among the household’s inhabitants.

Jean harbors jealousy, perceiving Xavier’s attraction to Roland as a threat. Simultaneously, Michele feels the sting of envy as Xavier is drawn to Dominique, a sentiment echoed by Roland, who dreads losing Dominique to Xavier's influence. Meanwhile, Brigitte worries about her waning control over Dominique, fearing Xavier's presence might disrupt the dynamics she has carefully orchestrated. Each character’s reaction to Xavier underscores their inner conflicts and desires for connection, highlighting the transformative impact of his saintly presence.

Xavier epitomizes purity and innocence, embodying an almost saintly demeanor that seems untouched by the imperfections of human nature. His singular moment of human vulnerability is his attraction to Dominique, a subtle glimpse of his connection to worldly desires. Yet, this does not taint his character, for his love for Roland remains selfless and pure, akin to the love of Christ.

A poignant demonstration of his sacrificial nature occurs one night when Jean imprisons Roland in the library. Compelled by compassion, Xavier traverses a thorny path, his feet enduring punctures from thorns and pinecones, in order to retrieve a ladder and offer solace to the boy. The trail of blood he leaves symbolically echoes the passion of Christ, underscoring his role as a figure of sacrifice and redemption.

As the story draws to a close, Xavier’s death emerges as a catalyst for transformation among those who knew him, leaving a profound impact on their lives. The Cure, reflecting deeply on Xavier’s life and deeds, arrives at the conviction that Xavier was, indeed, a saint. This revelation stirs a ripple of spiritual awakening within the community, prompting Mme Pian to arrange for masses in Xavier’s memory, each serving as a testament to his elevated status in their eyes.

Yet, the most significant metamorphosis unfolds within the hearts of Jean and Michele. Once entwined in a fraught and skeptical existence, they find themselves reconciled, their relationship mending in the wake of shared grief and newfound insight. Jean, especially, undergoes a profound evolution. Once a staunch non-believer, he finds himself at the cusp of faith, transformed by the sorrow and serenity he simultaneously experiences. He discovers a peace akin to what Xavier once possessed, a quiet acknowledgment that love, despite being "crucified," endures and thrives amidst pain and loss.

This poignant union of suffering and tranquility paves the way for Jean to adopt the beliefs that Xavier cherished. His tears, shared with Michele, symbolize a shared remorse and an awakening to the existence of love in the world—a love that endures despite the trials it faces. Thus, through Xavier’s death, a narrative of redemption unfolds, touching lives and reshaping hearts in unexpected ways.

The novel unfolds with a profound irony at its core: Xavier, who veers away from the path of priesthood, manages to embody a Christlike figure in his quest to "save" Jean de Mirbel. This irony is particularly striking, as it suggests Xavier's secular path ultimately leads him to a higher form of spiritual success than he might have achieved within the confines of the seminary. The narrative crafts a vivid contrast between good and evil—those timeless absolutes shrouded in mystery—through Xavier’s interactions with Jean.

Xavier’s transformation into a living symbol of divine grace occurs through his selfless acts. He becomes a willing sacrifice, offering solace to the isolated Roland and illuminating the essence of love for Jean. Through these actions, he transcends the ordinary bounds of human endeavor, becoming a beacon of salvation for the lonely and lost. In Xavier’s journey, the story delves deep into the complexities of redemption and the unexpected paths that lead to spiritual fulfillment, challenging conventional notions of religious attainment.