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Chapter 19: Just A Friend

Author: psyche
last update Last Updated: 2025-01-18 00:07:25

Cassandra’s POV

Ouch.

I hadn’t realized how much hearing him label me as just a friend would sting. I forced a smile and took a bite of pasta to distract myself from the strange ache in my chest.

His mother, however, wasn’t convinced. “That’s basically the same thing, Sevi,” she said, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.

“Mom,” he groaned, dragging a hand over his face.

I couldn’t help but smile at their exchange. She was so natural, so comfortable with him, and it made me realize how different our dynamics were. While my relationship with my own mother had always been formal and a little distant, theirs was filled with warmth and teasing.

“I noticed you like giving people nicknames,” I said, trying to lighten the mood. “Sevi, huh?”

“Oh, absolutely,” she said, beaming. “I believe nicknames bring people closer. And since you’re practically part of the family now, we’ll need one for you too.”

“Mom,” Sebastian cut in, his tone a mix of frustration and amusement, “she’s not par
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