Tessa's concern grew with each passing second. She couldn't shake the feeling that she might have been tricked or abandoned.
Her professionalism dictated she stay calm, but doubt gnawed at the edges of her confidence.
From the moment he had disappeared, her unease was growing.
Watts reappeared at the entry point of the hidden city, his sudden materialization startling Tessa, who stood waiting in the same spot he had left her.
Her gasp was audible as her wide eyes locked onto him.
She quickly composed herself, though the lingering traces of worry in her expression betrayed her earlier thoughts.
"You… You're back," she stammered slightly, then straightened, folding her arms to regain her professional demeanor. "Are you okay? I was beginning to think… well, never mind."
Watts gave her a faint smile, slinging his bag more comfortably over his shoulder.
