Chapter 48

CASSANDRA'S POV~

Just as I was about to turn and leave, a loud, unexpected burst of laughter exploded behind me. I froze for a second, blinking in pure surprise.

Was he... laughing?

Slowly, I turned my head to see Dario clutching his side, trying—and failing—to contain himself. His blond hair was a wild mess against the crisp white pillow, and his green eyes gleamed mischievously even as he wiped a tear from the corner of his eye.

I arched a brow, my patience thinning by the second, but I said nothing. I simply stood there, watching him like he was some curious animal at the zoo.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he hummed low in his throat and let out a satisfied sigh.

Still chuckling lightly, he shook his head and said, "You are... refreshing, you know that?"

I blinked, caught off guard by the softness in his voice.

"Most people," he continued, his lips still curled in amusement, "don't dare talk to me like that. Especially not here. Not in a country where even the air tr