Tessa couldn't move. She was frightened to the point that she was a statue.
"Did you hear what I said?" the deep voice asked.
She could not speak. She could not move. All she could do was look in front of her with wide eyes and pray that this was just a very bad nightmare.
She felt the barrel of the rifle push against her back slightly and was brought back to reality. Trying to keep herself as calm as possible, she tried to respond.
"I-i-i..." as soon as her mouth opened she began shaking uncontrollably. Not being able to hold in her emotions or control herself, she turned to the man that was behind her.
First she saw the rifle that was now as the mans side. Looking up she saw his muscular chest and broad shoulders. As her gaze continued to lift, a dark brown beard and very curious eyes were staring back at her.
At any other time she would've have been able to appreciate the man's strong build, his rough but handsome features and the kindness in his eyes. This was a different time though, she was running for her life and did not know who she could trust in this world.
Seeing how shaken up and upset she was the man put a hand on her shoulder and said "I'm not going to hurt you. Are you okay? What happened to you?"
An overwhelming feeling of safety washed over her as she saw the concern in this man's face. Not many people from her circle showed genuine concern, well other than herself. She was a part of a high class social group that were ruthless and did anything they could to get on top, but not Tessa. Tessa was always graceful and humble throughout the years. Lending a helping hand when needed, stepping out of the spotlight so that her friends could get the glory and praises. Was she still this person?
Taking a deep breath, she steadied herself as best she could and began to try to speak again. "M-my name i-i-is T-t-t-Tessa."
That was all she could get out before her body took over and began to shake again. "Are you in trouble? Do you need help?" the man said softly, "My name is Aiden."
All she could do was look into his eyes and nod her head. "Can you walk?" asked Aiden. Another nod came from Tessa. He put his hand out for her to take and for some unknown reason she took it immediately, clinging to him like he was the only way to survive right now.
As he led her up the drive, Aiden began to speak. "I'm really sorry if I scared you. Living out here, you never know what kind of people would come out here or what they'd want.
I do live with my family, but they live in the main house. I have a small house around back that I'm going to take you to get cleaned up and settled. If that's alright with you of course."
For the first time since her life took this horrific turn, Tessa felt safe and cared for. Who was this man that was helping her? Will he want something in return? Before she could think about it too much she simply said, "Yes, thank you."