Blanche's POV
Vincent's words hit me like a bolt from nowhere.
I dropped my gaze to meet his eyes.
Nothing but raw, open honesty stared back at me.
For just a second, I felt that familiar dizziness creeping in.
The thought crossed my mind: 'Maybe I could actually go with him. Maybe I could finally have the life I've been wanting.'
But that impossible dream lasted barely a heartbeat before reality crashed back in.
'Vincent's being good to me, sure, but isn't he just protecting his own interests?' The thought made my chest tighten with a familiar chill.
I didn't call him out on his motives. Instead, I watched him for a long moment before answering, "Vincent, everything that matters to me is here in Oakwood. I don't think I could ever walk away from this place."
Vincent didn't look shocked by my response. He just kept spooning porridge into my mouth.
