"Holland, you look so innocent," Nicholas said, shaking his head. "But it seems you've been bullying our boy."
That sent everyone into another round of laughter.
I looked between them, completely bewildered.
Bullying?
Me?
What had I done?
Kasteil gave a small laugh, low and unbothered.
"Like any of you are better."
"That's not the point," Elian replied.
"Holland, please give him some attention," he continued, looking at me with an exaggeratedly sympathetic expression. "The poor man has been neglected all day."
Jamie and Soren were practically laughing their heads off. Jamie had one hand over his mouth, shoulders shaking. Soren had given up trying to look composed and was just watching us with open delight.
I wanted to disappear beneath the table.
"Please, Holland," Nicholas added, bringing his hands together as though he were begging me. "Don't let him die from a lack of affection. Novaterra cannot function without him."
I covered my face for a moment.
How?
