569: COMPLICATED SITUATION

ARIEL'S POV As I knocked on Tessa’s door, anxiety tightened my stomach. I had so much to tell her, and I wasn’t sure how she would react. When Tessa opened the door, I saw the lines of exhaustion on her face. “Ariel,” she greeted me, her voice soft. “Come in.” I entered and followed her to the couch, settling in beside her. “How are you feeling, Tessa?” I asked, a mixture of concern and guilt threading through my words. Tessa shrugged, her expression weary. “I’m okay. The fever’s gone down a bit.” I reached out and placed a hand on her shoulder. “Good. I’m glad to hear that.” She gave me a small smile, but I could tell she sensed the uneasiness in my tone. “What’s going on, Ariel?” I took a deep breath and met her gaze. “I need to tell you something, Tessa. It’s… complicated.” She leaned forward slightly, her expression serious now. “Alright, I’m listening. What’s going on?” I clasped my hands together in my lap, feeling the words stick in my throat. “Tessa, Luke, and I have d