Jeff was frustrated. He was also quite impatient. Because over a month later, Tess had not given him an answer though she spent most nights at his house.
Jeff could not understand why she would not just marry him. He wanted her for himself in the entire manner that only marriage provided. He wanted his forever with her. So, he resorted to the formula he had used while wooing her. Jeff made sure he asked her everyday, especially during their lovemaking which had become so intense, he mostly felt burned.
He had gotten her a ring. He had told Bridget of his intentions and she was giddy with excitement that Tess would be her mother. It made his heart warm the way his daughter had taken to Tess. Jeff kept imagining Tess in his house, living there as his wife, taking care of Bridget as her daughter. The thoughts and imaginings mostly left him craving her voice, her touch, her presence and scent. Jeff was going crazy with want for Tess.
