A/N: Just keep in mind that each is a different timeline, so things will be contradictory. Hopefully this is better than the last chapter. Feel free to review with any requests for stories. (P.s. The italics are Will's thoughts.)
The garden was quiet. Tessa Grey stood at one end, studying a flower in her hands. Her gloves were stained a light blue color from the plant's waxy petals. Will Herondale walked up behind her and stood there for a moment. He studied her just like she was a flower. Her beautiful hair was set up high and her dress was a soft yellow. He attempted in vain to shake her out of his mind. Instead, he moved closer and grabbed the flower and took it in his hand.
"William! You frightened me! Oh, put that rose down. You'll get poisoned if you don't." Tessa nearly shouted as he snuck up behind her.
Will smirked. He tossed the rose to the side and wiped his stained fingertips on his shirt. He didn't care that she called him William. For the past few days, he found himself doing anything so that she would talk to him.
"Sorry Tess." He said.
Tessa first scowled at him, then it became a smile. His heart leaped. She is the most beautiful girl that I've ever laid eyes on. He knew she didn't like him calling her Tess anymore, but he couldn't help thinking about a time that she would have. Tessa smoothed her dress and put her hands on her hips.
"Well, I'm going to the library. I may never reach my destination with you in the way." Tessa stated.
"I must accompany you then. It is not proper for you to be walking this late, all alone." Will said. Please work. PLEASE WORK.
"It's only four o'clock. It isn't even dark out." She retorted.
Tessa shook her head. A piece of hair fell loose into her face. Will wanted to move it, just to touch her. But I can't touch her... She began walking past him. Will followed on her heels. He watched her walk slowly. She walked so confidently. Perfectly.
They reached the library. The books that lined the walls were his lifeline since he was merely a child. Now, when he saw Tessa enjoying them, he felt just as connected. The books were the connection point for the two of them. The only thing they ever seemed to be able to really talk about. He watched her browse the newest and shelf that Cyril had built special for Tessa. It was filled to the brim with novels that she had received for her birthday. The strong, solid wood matched her hair perfectly, but he knew that he and Jem were the only ones that noticed. If that. She grabbed for a book on a highest shelf and the unit toppled onto her. Tessa let out a small yelp. Will sprung into action. All of the books flew out and covered the floor. Will lifted the shelf with only a small struggle. His heart was pounding. What if she's seriously hurt? Her head was adorned with a huge gash. Blood flowed out, but she didn't seem to notice.
"Wha-at happened? A-are you alright?" She whispered. Am I alright?
"I am fine. The real question is, are you?" Will answered.
"I-I think so. Everything is so... fuzzy." Tessa nodded softly.
It was obviously not fine. Will reached for her hand. For the first time in months, she didn't look away from him or push him away. Her small hand gripped his. She didn't even flinch. Her eyes fluttered closed. Oh God! Will called for Charlotte. There was not response. He scooted over and sat with Tessa, her bloody head on his chest. He tried to keep her sitting upright. He continued to holler for anyone. I can't leave her. Sophie finally rushed up.
"Master William! What have you done?" She yelled. He realized what it must look like. His shirt was covered in blood and blue rose poison.
"Nothing! A bookshelf fell on her. We need to do something. And I can't leave her!" Will answered.
Sophie nodded. She leaned down to check Tessa's pulse.
"She's still alive. She probably has a concussion. That's a lot of blood though..." Sophie said.
He moved Tessa into her room. He was beside himself when Sophie made him leave the room. She had said that it would only be for a few minutes while she dressed Tessa. He paced in front of her door. Where is Jem? It suddenly angered him. Why is he not here right now? Will rushed to Jem's bedroom. Jem wasn't there. There was no sign of him anywhere. His box was gone, the one with his medicine in it. So was his violin. What?
"I'm done." Sophie said at the door.
Will dashed back. He couldn't imagine her not waking up. She was strong. When he saw her his mind was swimming. He stood next to her and her eyes opened slowly. Tessa had a thick, white bandage wrapped around her head. She sat up carefully. There was obviously a little pain in her eyes.
"Hello Will." She said weakly. Will...
He stepped closer to her. He was happy that she was awake.
"Hello Tess. How are you feeling?" Will said, trying to keep his voice even.
"I am okay. I'm just a little dizzy." Tessa answered.
She needs her rest. I still don't want to leave her here.
"I guess that I should leave you to your rest." Will said. He turned to walk away. He had to hide his face. She couldn't see him so sad to go.
"No!" Tessa said. "I mean... I don't really want to be alone."
"And who wouldn't want my company?" Will added.
Will was elated. His smile grew wide. He jumped playfully onto the edge of her bed. She let out a small laugh. He moved a bit closer. He touched her face, running the thick bandage underneath his fingers. Her arms lifted up to move his hair out of his eyes.
"I missed you Will." Tessa smiled.
