Zain's POV
I knew exactly what Demetrius was planning to say, but when Blanche shut him down like that, a strange rush of satisfaction bubbled up inside me.
'Why does this make me happy?' I wondered.
Somehow, deep down, I couldn't shake the feeling that maybe Blanche only had eyes for me.
After everyone chatted for a while, Aiden finally spoke up. "Alright everyone, let's dig in."
The room went quiet.
Demetrius noticed Blanche really enjoying the lamb chops, so he gently turned the lazy Amiya and placed another piece on her plate.
As he set it down, he leaned closer and whispered, "Don't let what people say get to you. Just be yourself, and try to be a little braver, okay?"
Blanche nodded with a gentle smile. "Sure."
Demetrius smiled back, but just as he started to sit up, Blanche called out softly, "Demetrius, thank you."
Demetrius knew exactly what she meant, but disappointment still washed over his face. "Honestly, I'd rather you just said it out loud."
