The moment Cassius stepped into the room and closed the door behind him, Maria's expression changed.
Gone was the secretive, almost mischievous look she had worn while summoning him.
In its place was something far more serious—a determined, focused gaze that reminded him, briefly, of Diana when she was about to deliver difficult news.
After all, she had brought him here for a reason.
A specific reason.
Ever since her conversation with Diana at the hospital, one thought had been running through her mind on an endless loop:
Cassius is suffering. Cassius is depressed. Cassius might be hurting himself.
She had heard it from Diana's own lips.
The sadness in his eyes. The sleepless nights.
The moment on the terrace that had made her blood run cold.
So, she needed to see for herself.
Needed to make sure the poor boy was alright.
So, she took a breath and was just about to speak—
When something completely unexpected happened.
