6.2 Dissonance in Deception

Observing Cass withdraw his hand and depart, Tan blinked, watching him leave with a mixture of curiosity and concern. Turning to Shaifeng, he voiced his worry, "Do you think Cass is upset with me?"

Shaifeng, comforting Tan with a gentle stroke of his head, reassured him, "He's just jealous because you came out on top. You know how he's struggled since he lost his abilities."

In a subdued tone, Tan expressed his fear, "I don't want him to lash out at me because I can do what he can't. It's not my fault."

Shengmei interjected reassuringly, "He won't. I'll speak to him when we get home."

Tan nodded, his sadness still lingering. Zidong intervened with a smile, "We've prepared a surprise for you back home. It'll be waiting in your music room within your suite."

Tan's eyes sparkled with anticipation. "Really?"

Shaifeng affirmed, his smile warm, "Absolutely. You're going to love it."