章 38: Tessa's Vile Past

When Tessa came out, still damp from her quick shower, Parker didn't waste time. He grabbed her hand—firm but calm—and started leading her toward the exit.

"Whoa, Parker," she teased, her voice playful but layered with curiosity. "You're really taking charge, huh? What's the rush? Scared I'll get distracted by someone hotter?"

Parker didn't even look at her, his expression unreadable as he kept walking. "Stop talking, Tessa. Let's go."

She blinked, momentarily stunned by his tone. Tessa wasn't used to being shut down like that, and for a second, she almost pushed back. But something in Parker's calm authority made her back off.

Instead, she smirked, biting her lip like she'd just been handed a challenge.

"Alright, Mr. Bossy. Lead the way," she said, her voice softer now, a little playful but with no fight left in it.