Chapter 13

chapter Twelve

Tristan's eyes narrowed, his heightened senses detecting an intruder. "Stay here," he commanded, his voice laced with protective determination. "I'll go check it out."

Tessa nodded, her mind swirling with a mix of emotions. She watched as Tristan disappeared into the darkness, leaving her alone with her racing thoughts. Doubt and curiosity battled within her, questioning the sudden intensity of their encounter. She wondered if it was just a momentary impulse or the beginning of something more profound.

As she waited anxiously, her mind wandered back to their time at the academy, the challenges they had faced together, and the bond they had formed. She couldn't deny the undeniable chemistry between them, but uncertainty clouded her judgment.

Minutes felt like an eternity as Tessa paced back and forth, her mind replaying the kiss over and over. Was it a mistake? Was it just a result of the heightened emotions of the day? The questions swirled, but before she could reach a conclusion, Tristan returned, a look of urgency etched on his face.

"Tessa, we need to leave. Now," he said, his voice filled with a mixture of urgency and concern.

Confusion etched across her features. "What's going on? Who was it?"

Tristan's jaw clenched, his eyes scanning the surroundings. "I don't know who they were, but they weren't here for a friendly visit. We need to go before things escalate."

Tessa's heart raced with a mix of fear and adrenaline. She trusted Tristan's instincts, and in that moment, she knew she had to rely on him. Without hesitation, she grabbed her belongings and followed him out of the house, their footsteps echoing in the silence of the night.

As they hurried through the darkened streets, Tessa couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. Who were those intruders, and what did they want? The events of the past few days seemed to converge into a dangerous web of mystery and intrigue.

As they arrived at Tristan's apartment, Tessa couldn't help but admire the cozy and comfortable space. She expressed her gratitude to Tristan for allowing her to spend the night there.

"Thank you, Tristan. This place is really nice," she said, a smile playing on her lips.

Tristan shrugged, trying to hide his own excitement. "It's no big deal. I'm glad you feel comfortable here," he replied.

Tessa looked around the room, taking in the simple yet inviting decor. "You know, I think I should sleep in the bed while you take the floor," she suggested. "You've already done so much for me, and it's only fair."

Tristan's eyes widened in surprise. "Are you for real, Tessa? It should be the other way around. You should have the bed. I don't mind sleeping on the floor."

Tessa crossed her arms, determination evident in her voice. "No, Tristan. We're in this together, and I want you to sleep in the bed. Besides, I'll feel safer knowing you're right there beside me. Those intruders might still be a threat, and I need you to protect me."

Tristan's gaze softened, touched by her concern. "Alright, if that's what you want," he relented, a flicker of a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "But I promise, I'll keep you safe."

As Tristan left the room to fetch something to eat, Tessa's mind raced with a mix of emotions. Thoughts of the passionate kiss they had shared earlier still lingered, leaving her both excited and uncertain. She wondered if their connection was just a result of the adrenaline-fueled situation or if there was something deeper between them.

Lost in her thoughts, Tessa was jolted back to reality as Tristan returned with a plate of food in his hands. He handed it to her, his eyes filled with warmth. "I hope this satisfies your hunger," he said, gesturing to the meal.

Tessa smiled gratefully, accepting the food. "Thank you, Tristan. You're always looking out for me."

He shrugged, a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks. "Well, it's my pleasure. I want to take care of you."

As they sat together, sharing the meal in comfortable silence, Tessa couldn't ignore the lingering tension between them. The memory of their kiss danced at the edge of her thoughts, urging her to confront the feelings that had blossomed between them.

But for now, Tessa decided to savor the moment, enjoying the warmth of Tristan's presence and the sense of safety he provided. Little did they know that their bond would soon be tested in ways they couldn't imagine.

As the night grew darker, Tessa's eyelids began to droop. She turned to Tristan, her voice softening. "I think I should get some rest. It's been an eventful day."

Tristan nodded, understanding the need for sleep. "Of course. The bed is all yours. If you need anything, just let me know."

Tessa climbed into the inviting bed, the softness of the sheets enveloping her. She watched as Tristan settled on the floor, his body forming a makeshift bed of blankets and pillows. In that moment, a surge of protectiveness washed over her.

"Tristan," she called out, her voice filled with determination. "Come sleep in the bed with me. I want you close."

He hesitated, his eyes searching hers for confirmation. "Are you sure?" he asked, a mix of surprise and longing in his voice.

Tessa nodded, her heart pounding with anticipation. "Yes, Tristan. I want you beside me."