Bianca sat back down next to Blake, a smile of relief on her face. “Thank you, Blake. I really appreciate you being there for me.”

Seeing her smile, Blake felt a sense of peace. He reached out and gently ruffled her hair, his eyes warm. “No need to thank me.”

Bianca was caught off guard by his kindness, quickly looking away.

His affectionate gestures always surprised her, making it hard to keep her composure.

Unable to return his feelings, she acted like ...