Elias's entire body went rigid.
His eyes widened, mouth slightly agape, face burning red as he stared at Cassius in disbelief. "M-Master…"
Cassius tilted his head, expression unreadable, though the ghost of a smirk played at the corner of his lips. "I was only joking," he murmured, tone soft enough to make Elias question if he truly meant it. "You're far too easy to tease, Elias."
"I—" Elias swallowed, unsure whether to retreat or reprimand him. "That sort of jest is inappropriate… especially when you're meant to be resting."
"Mm. And yet, you're the one who climbed onto the bed first."
"I was feeding you!" Elias snapped, then immediately winced at his own raised voice. He straightened, hands clenched at his sides, forcing himself to calm. "Please… don't make light of things like that, Master. Not when you're still recovering."
