Forbidden Mate

Chapter 1

Evelyn’s POV

As my plane touched down at the airport, nervousness and excitement churned within me. I was finally returning to Silverwood after several years away. Thoughts swirled in my mind about how my father, Jacob, the Hunters' leader, would react to my unexpected arrival. Our past disagreements had created a rift between us, and I hoped that time apart had softened his heart toward me.

"Miss Harper?" I heard a voice call out, pulling me from my thoughts.

I turned to find two tall, well-built men standing behind me, dressed in the distinctive attire of the Hunters, their logo sewn onto their clothing. It was an unexpected sight, and my heart skipped a beat as I realized my father had sent his guards to escort me.

"Your father has sent us to escort you to Silverwood," one of the men spoke, his voice deep yet respectful.

I was uncertain how to react to this unexpected gesture. I hadn't anticipated my father taking such measures to fetch me. It indicated that he cared enough to go to great lengths to make me feel welcome.

"Of course," I replied, my voice steady as I tried to maintain composure. "Lead the way."

As we approached Silverwood, the dense forest appeared, and my heart swelled with excitement. Childhood memories flooded back, and I longed to reconnect with my roots. When we finally arrived, I took a deep breath to steady myself.

Exiting the car, I was met with curious glances from other Hunters who recognised me as their leader's daughter. Some faces were familiar, while others were strangers. It was a strange feeling being back in the settlement.

As I looked around, a familiar figure caught my eye. It was my mother, Sarah. My heart swelled with love and longing as I watched her approach. Despite the passing years, her grace and beauty remained undiminished.

"Evelyn, my dear!" my mother called out, her voice filled with joy.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I rushed to embrace her. The years melted away as we held each other tightly, and in that moment, all I felt was happiness and comfort.

"Oh, Mom," I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion. "I've missed you so much."

My mother pulled back slightly, her eyes filled with love and pride. "And I've missed you too, my darling. Having you back in Silverwood fills my heart with so much joy."

I couldn't help but inquire about my father, who had been absent during our reunion.

"Where is Father?" I asked, my curiosity getting the best of me.

My mother's smile remained warm as she replied, "Your father is at home. Let's go see him."

Approaching the house, I couldn't help but feel nervous and apprehensive about my father's reaction. My heart pounded in my chest as I entered the house. There, by the fireplace, stood my Father, deep in thought.

"Dad?" I said softly, breaking the silence.

Jacob turned around, his face a mix of surprise, relief, and perhaps a tinge of regret.

"Evelyn, you're back," he said, his voice filled with emotion.

Tears filled my eyes as I nodded in response. "Yes, Father, I am. I am so sorry."

He pulled me into a hug, and we held each other tightly. The weight of past disagreements seemed to lift as we clung to one another.

"I'm sorry too, Evelyn," Jacob whispered, his voice filled with genuine remorse. "I should have supported your desire to explore the world. But I let my duties blind me."

Tears glistened in my eyes as I looked at my father. "It's okay, Dad. We both made mistakes. All that is in the past now. Can we move on from that?" I asked, my voice filled with hope as I stared into his eyes.

He nodded, looking relieved. "Yes, we can. I've missed you and want to see you happy."

My smile returned as I felt a sense of forgiveness and the promise of a fresh start. "I've missed you too, Dad," I replied, hugging him close.

Later that night, I sat at the dining table, enjoying a meal with my parents. The warm glow of candles cast a cozy atmosphere in the room, and laughter filled the air as we caught up on past memories.

"So, Evelyn, how's life been for you in that faraway country? Tell us everything!" my mother asked, her smile warm and inviting.

I couldn't contain my excitement as I shared tales of my adventures. "Oh, it's been quite an adventure! I learned a new culture, met different people, and saw breathtaking landscapes. I even made some wonderful friends, too!"

My father leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "What's the best thing you've seen so far?"

My eyes lit up as I recounted my experiences. "The historical sites and ancient landmarks! I visited this beautiful castle on a hill, and the view was amazing."

My mother's smile remained, her pride evident in her eyes. "It sounds like you had an incredible time."

I nodded, but my contentment was soon disrupted by a sudden commotion outside. The three of us exchanged worried glances as the loud bell rang, signaling an attack.

My father's voice was urgent as he instructed, "Evelyn, go to your room and lock the door. Stay there until we come for you."

Fear gripped me as I turned to my mother, seeking answers. "What's happening, Mother?" I asked, my voice trembling with fright.

My mother's expression mirrored my concern, but she remained composed as she reached for a weapon. "There's trouble outside, sweetheart. Please, do as your father says. We'll keep you safe."

Reluctantly, I clung to my mother, my protests interrupted by her firm words. "Please, Evelyn. We need to make sure you're safe. Go now."

As instructed, I rushed to my room, locking the door and praying for my parents' safety. The sounds of an ongoing battle outside my window reminded me of the violence that had erupted. My heart ached with worry for my family.

Then, suddenly, a piercing scream echoed through the air, a voice I recognised all too well. It was my mother. My fears intensified, and without a second thought, I rushed out of my room, my heart pounding. I followed the sound of the cries, pushing through the chaos of the battleground, not stopping to think my actions through. My mind raced with fear and dread, not knowing what I might find.

As I reached the scene, my eyes widened in horror at the sight before me. "Mom, Dad!" I screamed, my voice filled with anguish and desperation.