[Evelina's POV — Outside the Vinter Mansion—Continuation]
Cassian's smile didn't break; it sharpened. A slow, deliberate curve—like a blade finding its edge.
"Disgust," he repeated softly. "That's better than fear. Fear makes people boring."
I didn't blink.
"Why are you here?" I asked coldly. "Tell me the reason before I kick you out of this place."
His eyes gleamed with amusement. "Oh… as the father of an adorable child, I came to meet my dearest daughter."
Alina flinched.
She instantly hid behind Rowan, small fingers clutching the fabric of his coat like a lifeline. Rowan didn't move—but the air around him shifted, heavy with quiet intent.
I scoffed.
"Dearest daughter?" I echoed, my voice flat. "Hearing that from your mouth pisses me off more than anything else today."
Cassian tilted his head, studying me as if I were an interesting puzzle. I stepped forward—just one step—but it was enough.
