“Let’s talk later. I’ll hang up now.” Tessa ended the call and approached Zachary.

She stopped a few feet away from him. Her displeasure was clearly written on her face. “How did you find this place?

Zachary narrowed his eyes, his presence radiating danger. “Are you avoiding me?

Tessa frowned and replied, “Why would I avoid you? Didn’t I tell you that I was going back to my hometown?”

Zachary took two steps forward, and Tessa Instinctively stepped back. Her teaction deepened the displeasure in his eyes.

“You said you were going to your hometown. You didn’t say you werent retuming to Haverford.” He stepped closer with a fiery gaze. “How long are you going to keep this up?”

Tessa clicked her tongue in annoyance. She met his gaze calmly. “I’m not keeping anything up. Zachary, we’re over. Please just leave me alone.

“Over?” He let out a humorless laugh. “That’s not your decision to make. This relationship ends only when I say so.”

“Are you out of your mind? Isn’t Wendy the one you like? Go to her! Why are you still bothering me?”

His brows lifted, and his tone softened as he asked, “Are you Jealous?”

Tessa mentally rolled her eyes. His arrogance was truly unmatched.

Zachary said, “Wendy and I are just friends. Stop making a big deal out of nothing ”

Tessa laughed coldly and retorted, “Friends who sleep together?

For a moment, his composure cracked. Guilt flashed in his eyes as he asked, “What nonsense are you spouting?”

“You’ve slept with her more than once since she got back, haven’t you?” Tessa replied sarcastically. “Did you think I wouldn’t know? I just didn’t bother saying anything because I don’t care anymore.”

Her words struck Zachary like a bolt of lightning.

His chest tightened, and he looked hurt. “You don’t care anymore?” he asked.

“But I care,”

“be continued softly, his voice filled with sorrow. “I’ve been thinking about you nonstop. I miss you, Tessa. Let’s get back together.” Her gaze remained cold and unmoved. Was he schizophrenic? just moments ago, he had questioned her furiously. Now, he pleaded pitifully. Tessa looked at him coldly and replied, “It’s not happening.”

He suddenly shouted, “Why not?” His emotions had spiraled out of control.

Curious glances from passersby landed on them, and Tessa felt thoroughly embarrassed.

“Can you not yell at the entrance to my apartment?” she said sharply. “You might not care about your dignity but I do.”

Zachary grabbed her by the wrist. He seemed more agitated than usual. “Tessa, come back with me!” “Let go!” she demanded, struggling to free herself.

His grip was too strong. She couldn’t break free

She narrowed her eyes slightly and coldly said, “If you don’t let go, I won’t hold back”

She was ready to show him what she was capable of.

“I’m not letting go!” he shouted fiercely.

Zachary tightened his grip on her wrist and used his other hand to grip the back of her head. He was about to forcefully kiss her. “Tessa, I miss you so much,” he said as he leaned in.

Before Tessa could retaliate, a thunderous voice interrupted them

“Let go of her!”

Zachary froze and turned to see a man with a strong, linposing presence.

Fora mothen, Zachary was stunned.

“Who are you?” he questioned.