**Chapter 11: "Blanche's Advice"**

As the days went by, Dorothy found herself spending more and more time with Lucas. They would go on long walks along the beach, have deep conversations, and explore the city together. The girls at the house were thrilled to see Dorothy so happy, and they couldn't help but offer their advice and opinions on her new relationship. Blanche, being the self-proclaimed love expert, took it upon herself to offer Dorothy some guidance on how to navigate her feelings for Lucas. The two of them sat on the couch in the living room, sipping coffee and chatting. "So, Dorothy, tell me about this Lucas," Blanche said, her eyes sparkling with interest. "What's he like?" Dorothy smiled, feeling a little self-conscious. "He's great, Blanche. We have a lot in common, and he's really easy to talk to." Blanche nodded, her expression serious. "That's wonderful, darling. But let me tell you, the key to a successful relationship is to keep them guessing. You have to be a little bit mysterious, a little bit elusive. Don't make it too easy for him, or he'll lose interest." Dorothy raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "Really? I thought the goal was to be honest and open with each other." Blanche waved her hand dismissively. "Honesty is overrated, darling. What you want to do is keep him on his toes. Make him wonder what's going to happen next. That's what keeps the spark alive." Dorothy wasn't sure she agreed with Blanche's advice, but she listened patiently as her friend continued to expound on her theory. "For example, don't always return his calls right away. Make him wait a little bit. And when you do talk to him, don't give away too much. Keep some things to yourself, darling. It's much more intriguing that way." Dorothy shook her head, feeling a little confused. "I'm not sure I can do that, Blanche. I'm just not wired that way." Blanche smiled, her eyes glinting with amusement. "That's okay, darling. I'll teach you the ways of the seductress. Just watch and learn." As the conversation went on, Dorothy couldn't help but feel a little uneasy. She wasn't sure she wanted to play games with Lucas, or try to manipulate him into being interested. She just wanted to be herself, and see where things went. But Blanche was undeterred, offering her advice and guidance with a confident smile. Dorothy listened, trying to take it all in, but she couldn't shake the feeling that she was being pulled in two different directions. Should she follow her heart, or play the game and try to keep Lucas interested? As she sat there, trying to make sense of it all, Dorothy realized that she needed to trust her instincts. She would be herself, and see where things went with Lucas. If he liked her for who she was, then that was all that mattered. With a newfound sense of confidence, Dorothy stood up, feeling a little more sure of herself. "Thanks for the advice, Blanche," she said, smiling. "But I think I'll just be myself, and see where things go." Blanche raised an eyebrow, a little surprised. "Suit yourself, darling," she said. "But don't say I didn't warn you."