Brotherly Whiplash

Of all the times, why did it have to be in front of Sylas—the final boss of his life?

Rocco was sure that his brother, who despised him, was laughing hysterically at his expense.

Any second now, Sylas would spread word of this humiliating fall throughout the main house, annihilating not just Rocco's physical dignity but his social standing as well.

Lost in these thoughts, Rocco trembled on the ground, unable to move.

The footsteps drew closer and finally stopped just beside him.

Then, without warning, a pair of hands reached down and firmly grasped him under his arms, lifting him up with surprising ease.

With a strong lift, Rocco was picked up and set down onto the ground, sitting upright.

His trembling lips tightened as he tried to hold back sobs.

As his tear-streaked face was exposed to the sunlight, he felt the collective intake of breath from those nearby.

"...You're crying. Was it that painful?"