A Vow to Protect

Tessa met Vance's gaze. Their bodies were very close. She could even feel the coolness emanating from his skin.

"If I ever really wanted a man, it would only be because I loved him deeply. That's the only reason I would want him," Tessa said as she withdrew from Vance's embrace.

Their hands, which had been intertwined on the other side, finally separated.

Vance stared blankly at his empty hands. A