97

Cassy’s cheeks suddenly flamed and she raised the book higher, covering both her face and her chest as she muttered, “Eyes off as well. Might as well mate with your duties and your pride since you seem to be in love them.”

Lino’s lips twitched and he stifled the oncoming smile. She would throw a feat if she caught him smiling. Instead, he walked around the bed, stopping beside her. “Cassy,” he said, reaching for her hand. “You misunderstand me every time. I didn’t mean any if it that way, I promise.”

She merely swatted him away like he was an insect. “Move.”

Lino pursed his lips and took the book from her hands faster than she could detect it.

Cassy straightened, stretching her hand to get the book from him. “Give that back.”

Lino leaned far from her reach, raising the hand that held the book higher in the air. “Why? You prefer looking at a boring book than talking to your mate? Why does it always have to be difficult with you? I wish to explain things, but you