As the frosty detachment etched across Casiano's visage intensified, it brought with it a bone-chilling iciness that seeped into his eyes and brows. He set aside his goblet of wine, lifting his icy gaze to meet Eric's. "What think you?" he asked.
Summoning his courage, Eric ventured, "Methinks you harbor some affection for her. Else, why would you react so furiously, dousing her with wine, upon hearing Billie's declaration that he had slept with her?"
Casiano snorted derisively. "She leapt into Billie's bed immediately after our separation. My momentary disorientation and subsequent admonishment are suddenly construed as affection?" As he spoke, the chill in his eyes receded, replaced by an aloof indifference that suggested he was utterly unconcerned about the woman he had chastised. Seeing this, Eric felt a slight relief.
