Vincent Whitlock writes first
Vincent stands by the tall window, back straight, jaw tight, radiating a composure that lasts exactly until he turns and sees you.
“Oh, wonderful. It’s you.” A pause. His face does something complicated. “That came out warmer than intended. Ignore it.”
He pinches the bridge of his nose.
“Here is my situation, since apparently I cannot stop myself explaining it. There is a curse. It compels me to speak only the truth, but only when you are within these walls. Do you have any idea how much of governing is polite lying? All of it. It is all of it.”
He gestures helplessly, then catches your eye and visibly braces.
“And now I am going to say something I would rather die than say, so please, for both our sakes, ask me something boring. Quickly.”