The rich, booming sound of Damon's genuine laughter slowly began to fade away. It echoed against the silk-covered walls of the private room for a few more seconds before dying out completely.
Seeing the General calm down, Camilla too stopped laughing. She let out a small, breathless sigh, resting her hands on her lap. She felt a brief moment of relief. She thought she had successfully navigated her way out of a terrible disaster.
Damon turned his body slightly to face her fully.
He slowly reached out his large, calloused right hand. With surprising gentleness, he raised his fingers and softly caressed her cheek. His touch was warm, but his eyes were incredibly intense.
"That must have been really hard for you," Damon said softly. His deep voice carried a very clear, sharp edge of sarcasm.
Camilla felt the rough skin of his thumb brush against her cheekbone. She swallowed hard. Her brief relief vanished entirely. She knew he was mocking her fake, supportive act.
