#tressa.

He tried to stop it. He always tries to stop it.

Every time someone in Pretorius tries to get another person turned — killed — it was him who always speaks against it before anyone else. The reasons varied, in some cases the person clearly wouldn't be able to handle; in others, they were too visible, it would put them at risk. All of them lies. The truth was Kingsley didn't want others to hurt like he does. They always thought they knew what they were doing. They were wrong.

He spots her across the dancing floor, already looking so much different than she used to be, at least in his eyes. He allows himself a moment to mourn the girl she used to be before beelining straight to Tressa with his familiar grin on his face and grabbing her hand.

"Welcome to the family, love. We couldn't be more thrilled," he leaned close to her to speak over the loud music. "And congratulations, baby girl. You are my guest of honor tonight," Kingsley gave her a wink. "Why don't you follow me to the VIP room, huh? We have so much to catch up on," a gentle smile, "and hurry, before I hug you right here and embarrass you in front of all these incredibly hot people who are totally checking you out."