章 35: Crossroads of Resolve (2)

Nessa blinked, caught off guard by the sudden change. The roller-coaster of emotions left her reeling and feeling both exasperated and oddly reassured.

"Let's just focus on Kaleb," 

He added as he walked away, his playful facade settling back into place.

The air between Cassie and Nessa grew thick, almost unbearable now that they were alone.

Cassie let out a long sigh before she sheathed her sword and turned to follow Victor. But before she could take more than a few steps Nessa's hand shot out, gently grabbing her arm. 

Cassie glanced back over her shoulder, her lips pressed into a thin line. The silence continued to stretch painfully between them as Nessa hesitated.

Her gaze flickered, filled with uncertainty. She opened her mouth, but just stood there as if searching for the right words. 

Cassie frowned, frustration bubbling up within her.

 "If you're just going to stay quiet, Nessa, then you might as well let me go,"