Caught in Sylas's Grip

The owner of the voice revealed himself—Sylas, his strikingly handsome brother, now standing mere inches from Rocco's face.

His sharp features were marred by a scowl, and his piercing gaze left Rocco frozen in place.

Rocco's mind flashed back to the earlier moment when this same hand had patted his head.

Is he kind… or scary?

Rocco wondered, sending a conflicted look toward Sylas, his uncertainty clear in his wide eyes.

His cheek was firmly squished for several seconds, leaving him face-to-face with Sylas's handsome striking features.

The sheer beauty before him sent him spiraling into a mix of awe and terror.

Tears began to well up in Rocco's eyes as he deployed his best watery-eyed plea for mercy.

Finally, Sylas's hand released from his cheek, seemingly swayed by the pitiful appearance.

Rocco had long since abandoned any semblance of pride.