Chapter 19 – Talia’s POV

The stare contest between Vermont and I dragged on longer than it should have. Neither of us moved, neither of us blinked, like we were both too stubborn to be the one who gave in first. It was ridiculous, honestly, but something in his eyes kept me rooted in place.

There was too much there; anger, frustration, and disdain. I refused to be the one to look away.

Eventually, he did.

His jaw tightened, and he stepped back, breaking whatever silent challenge we had ...