His Unveiled Passion

The round glass table lacked a vintage ceramic vase or fresh flowers. The refrigerator wasn't stocked with delicious food. The walls bore no decorations, and the curtains weren't in Tessa's preferred color.

Zachary closed his eyes, but the image of Tessa entwined with Stephen surfaced in his mind again. At this very moment, could they be engaged in something intimate?

The pain in his heart was sharp and unmistakable.

Before coming here, he had considered many possibilities, but not once had he imagined that Tessa might already be with someone else.

They said heartbreak happened twice in a relationship. The first time was at the moment of the breakup. The second time was when you saw her with someone new. It turned out to be true.

...

The next day, the autumn air was crisp, and the sky was bright and clear.

Having made plans to go out with Stephen, Tessa slept in until she woke naturally. After a simple breakfast, she began to dress and apply makeup.

She chose a black long-sleeved, velvet vintage dress, her wavy curls cascading over her shoulders. Her bright red lipstick perfectly complemented the black dress.

With her striking beauty, sharp features, high nose bridge, thick brows, and almond-shaped eyes, the makeup added an air of bold elegance, making her look stunning and captivating.

Stephen's black Cullinan was parked downstairs. When Tessa came down, she saw him leaning against the car, talking on the phone.

Noticing her arrival, Stephen's eyes lit up briefly before he ended the call with a few words. He looked up and smiled faintly.

"This outfit and makeup suit you very well today."

Tessa smiled and opened the passenger door to get in.

"Where are we going?" she asked as she fastened her seatbelt.

"You'll see soon enough," he replied.

Stephen didn't bring a chauffeur today and was driving himself.

The Cullinan moved through the bustling city, heading toward the countryside. The tall buildings gradually disappeared until none were visible anymore.

Rivertown's flat terrain gave way to beautiful rural scenery. Under the clear blue sky stretched endless golden wheat fields, dotted with farmers harvesting their crops.

Occasionally, they passed small farmhouses with bare fruit trees in the yards, their branches stripped of leaves and stark against the landscape.

Tessa half-opened the car window, letting the cool breeze carry a faint jasmine fragrance. The refreshing scent and tranquil surroundings lifted her spirits.

"This feels so peaceful," she said, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath to savor the floral aroma in the air.

Stephen focused on driving and said, "We're almost there."

The car traveled along narrow, winding rural roads for another 20 minutes before stopping in front of a three-story self-built country house.

"We're here," Stephen said, turning off the engine and looking at Tessa.

The girl looked at the house in surprise. "Where is this?"

Stephen's lips curved slightly, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. "Get out and see for yourself."

As soon as they stepped out of the car, the owner of the house came out to greet them.

At first, the man wore a puzzled expression. But upon seeing Stephen, his expression quickly changed to

one of pleasant surprise. Smiling, he walked up to them.

"Mr. Jacobson, what brings you here?" he said warmly, casually offering Stephen a cigarette.

Tessa noticed the Mabouro cigarette pack. She didn't smoke, but she had often seen this brand in convenience stores and supermarkets, typically priced between 10 and 20 dollars per pack.

She watched curiously as the elegant and refined Stephen took the cigarette. The man, who appeared to be in his 40s with tanned skin, quickly lit it for him.

"Sorry, Mr. Jacobson, I didn't know you were coming today. I only have this cheap cigarette at home," the man said apologetically.

Tessa found it fascinating and watched Stephen with interest. So, he smoked these inexpensive

cigarettes? From the man's reaction, it was evident that Stephen visited here frequently.

"And who is this?" the man asked, shifting his attention to Tessa.

"Ms. Yates," Stephen replied in a calm tone.

The man's eyes lit up with joy. "Ms. Yates, you're here!"

He turned toward the house and shouted excitedly, "Mom! Mom! Ms. Yates is here!"noveldrama

Tessa tilted her head slightly, glancing at Stephen with a puzzled expression.

Could this family know her?