Chapter 143: Thorns of Affection
No, it was anger—definitely anger.
He wasn’t flustered or swooning, not even a little.
Absolutely not.
Laxus blinked at Rocco’s fiery response, his expression unreadable for a moment, before slowly breaking into a practiced, almost too-perfect smile.
The smile was bright and cheerful, but there was something unnervingly precise about it, as if it had been crafted for effect.
"Rocco, are you still mad at me? If there’s been a misunderstanding... that would make me a little sad."
"M-Misunderstanding...?"
Rocco squinted at Laxus, his suspicion palpable.
He kept his distance, maintaining at least two meters between them and refusing to let his guard down.
Seeing Rocco so defensive posture, Laxus let his shoulders droop slightly, his expression softening into a sad smile.
He spoke in a gentle voice, tinged with regret.