CHAPTER 17

Upon hearing Bernard's words, the entire room fell silent for a brief moment.

Then—Laughter erupted.

It started with Maira, a sharp, amused chuckle escaping her lips as she leaned back in her chair, shaking her head. Then Liam, who had been elegantly sipping her tea, nearly spilled it as she doubled over, laughing hysterically. Even Mr. Callum let out a deep, scoffing laugh, as if Bernard had just told the most ridiculous joke of the year.

"Bernard, you must have hit your head when you fell," Maria cackled, wiping a tear from the corner of her eye. "That can be the only explanation for the nonsense you're spewing right now."

At that moment Bernard didn't say anything, he knew that wouldn't even believe him, if not for the fact he saw her himself.

He too wouldn't have believed either.

Then again Maria smirked, her laughter turning mocking. "Seriously, Bernard? Are you even hearing yourself?" She crossed her arms.