Vincent let out a light, derisive laugh. "Go ahead and try, then. See for yourself if I'm really delusional."
Damian didn't bother responding. He simply tightened his hold around Scarlett and met Vincent's gaze. "She's right here in my arms. Do you actually believe you can take her from me?"
Vincent didn't seem interested in trying anymore. He waved a hand dismissively. "And how long do you think you can keep her there?"
"For a lifetime," Damian shot back without hesitation.
Vincent snorted. "Yeah, right."
Damian had no intention of dragging this out. He glanced down at Scarlett, then back at Vincent. "Are you going to move or not?"
Vincent didn't answer. He just stood there, blocking their path, unwilling to budge.
The tense standoff dragged on.
Seeing Vincent refuse to step aside, Damian felt his patience wearing thin. His eyes narrowed, a cold edge slowly cutting through his restraint.
Just as he was about to snap, Scarlett stirred against his chest.
Damian looked down, his voice softening instantly. "Scarlett... you awake?"
Her eyes fluttered open. For a second she just stared at him, disoriented, until the memories rushed back—and with them, a sharp, throbbing pain in her leg.
She bit back a gasp and managed a quiet, "Yeah."
The sound eased something in Damian. A faint smile touched his lips as he leaned in, intending to brush his forehead gently against her cheek.
But Vincent's voice cut through the moment. "Really, Damian? Taking advantage when she's barely conscious?"
Damian paused—then, almost defiantly, he lowered his face into the curve of Scarlett's neck, lingering there for a breath.
Vincent felt his temper flare, but he forced it down and called out, quieter now, "Scarlett."
She heard him but didn't respond, turning her face deeper into Damian's shoulder.
Seeing that, Damian straightened up. He kept his voice low, gentle. "Ready to go home?"
Scarlett nodded against him. "Yeah."
That was all Damian needed. His gaze lifted to Vincent, cool and unwavering. "You going to move now, Mr. Stewart?"
Damian stepped out, rounded the vehicle, and carefully lifted Scarlett from the passenger seat.
Violet and Nathan reached them first, their faces lined with worry. "Damian, is she alright?" Violet asked, voice tight.
Damian's expression was grave as he carried Scarlett toward the house. "She's okay," he told them, moving quickly. "Nothing serious."
Weak and exhausted, Scarlett barely stirred, her head resting against Damian's shoulder.
He carried her through the foyer and up to the second floor without pause—he knew the way to her room. Gently, he laid her down on the bed and drew the comforter over her.
The family had followed closely and now stood in the bedroom doorway, watching in silent concern.
Knowing they needed reassurance, Damian straightened up and spoke quietly. "She's going to be fine. But she hasn't eaten in two meals. Violet, could you have the staff prepare something light? Soup, maybe, or some toast."
"Of course," Violet replied right away. "I'll let them know."
Damian nodded, then turned toward Nathan, whose jaw was clenched tight, deep worry etched across his face.
Nathan's brow was furrowed, his whole posture tense with unease.

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