The After book series by Anna Todd is filled with intense drama, emotional turbulence, and a love story that spans betrayal, forgiveness, and growth. One of the most debated topics among fans is whether Tessa Young, the series’ heroine, ever sleeps with anyone other than Hardin Scott. Considering the rocky path their relationship takes throughout the books, it’s a valid question—and one that sparks plenty of controversy.
So what’s the truth? Does Tessa cheat? Does she ever move on from Hardin physically or emotionally with someone else? Let’s dive deep into the novels and unpack exactly what happens, how it affects the story, and why this detail still divides readers years later. Tessa and Hardin’s relationship is anything but easy. From the beginning, their love is marked by explosive passion, jealousy, and deep emotional wounds. While Hardin is known for his self-sabotaging behavior—including lying, lashing out, and making Tessa question everything—Tessa isn’t without her moments of doubt or emotional detachment.
Their relationship cycles through intense highs and devastating lows. So, it’s not surprising that both characters have moments where they seek comfort, clarity, or even revenge—though their decisions often carry painful consequences. The short and definitive answer is: Yes, but with important context. In the After book series, Tessa does not sleep with anyone else while in a committed relationship with Hardin. However, during a time when they are separated and not technically together, she does have a sexual encounter with another character: Zed Evans.
There is chemistry between Tessa and Zed, and he offers her something Hardin often struggles to give: stability and tenderness. However, despite this, Tessa’s heart always leans toward Hardin, even when her mind tells her she should walk away. In After We Collided, after one of her breakups with Hardin, Tessa spends time with Zed. They go on dates, and the connection between them intensifies. There is heavy flirtation, and it’s clear Zed wants more. Tessa, in a vulnerable state, briefly considers giving in.
But here’s the important distinction: in the books, Tessa and Zed do not have full sex. They do engage in kissing and some physical intimacy, but she ultimately pulls away, realizing that she can’t give herself to anyone else—not even someone as gentle as Zed—because her heart still belongs to Hardin. Later in the series (After Ever Happy), Tessa shares a close connection with a character named Robert, a waiter she meets while staying with her mother. After one of the more devastating splits from Hardin—especially after discovering he kept more secrets from her—Tessa tries to move on.
She flirts with Robert, and while it’s hinted that they may spend the night together, the books don’t explicitly describe a sexual encounter. It is strongly suggested that they may have kissed or had a mild romantic moment, but again, Tessa does not fully commit to anyone emotionally or physically in the way she did with Hardin.
