Smoke and Secrets

Tessa was startled, and in the next instant, Vance crushed her in his arms.

"Tettie, you can't lie to me! You said it, so you can't take it back," Vance choked out.

Tessa gently stroked Vance's back while he hugged her like a protective bear. "I said it, so I'm not taking it back. I mean it, and I'm not changing my mind. Vance, I love you!"

Her words at that moment sounded like a divine melody to