Sweets for the Wolf

A Chance Encounter

The moonlight had faded, replaced by the soft glow of dawn. Pale gold streaked across the horizon, illuminating the forest, which still reeked of blood and battle. Alex leaned against the thick trunk of an oak tree, his chest rising and falling heavily. Blood trickled from the deep gash along his abdomen where the wild boar’s tusks had torn through his flesh. Though he had bested the beast, the price had been steep.

He closed his eyes, letting the cool morning breeze wash over him, soothing his frayed nerves. The wild, untamed part of him still simmered beneath the surface, but exhaustion was starting to take over. After a moment's rest, he pushed himself to his feet and headed toward a secluded cabin hidden deep within the woods.

The small cabin, weathered but sturdy, stood like a sentinel among the trees. It was his secret refuge, a place known to no one. He pushed open the door and stepped inside. The interior was sparse but functional, stocked with first-aid supplies, clean clothes, and the essentials for survival.

Stripping off his torn, bloodstained clothes, Alex examined his reflection in a cracked mirror. The wound was jagged and raw, but he had suffered worse. He cleaned the gash with antiseptic, his hands steady and practiced, then wrapped it with a fresh bandage. Once he was satisfied with his work, he changed into a crisp black shirt and trousers. Looking at himself in the mirror, he smoothed his hair back. Gone was the savage beast—he was once again the composed, polished man the world knew.

When he arrived at the office, the sun was already high, flooding his expansive office with golden light. Evan was waiting, casually perched on the edge of Alex’s desk, his signature easy grin lighting up his face.

“Well, looks like your ‘hunting trip’ was a success,” Evan teased, the hint of a chuckle in his voice.

Alex offered a faint smile as he sank into his chair, his tone calm and measured. “The client—how did it go?”

Evan straightened, pride gleaming in his eyes. “Smooth as silk. Even without you, I pulled out all the stops. They were impressed and sent us a return invitation to discuss further collaboration.”

Alex nodded approvingly. “Good work.”

Evan feigned modesty, waving a hand. “Wow, praise from Alex himself. I must be dreaming. We should celebrate. How about drinks tonight?”

Alex opened his mouth to decline, but Evan cut him off, grinning. “No excuses. You deserve a break too.”

After a long pause, Alex relented. “Fine.”

The city glittered under neon lights as the two entered the lively bar. The air was thick with the scent of alcohol and the hum of laughter. Evan led them to a corner booth, ordering drinks with a triumphant grin.

“To us—kings of business and maybe life itself,” Evan toasted, lifting his glass high.

Alex offered a small smirk but remained quiet, eyes scanning the room absently. His attention locked suddenly, his body tensing as he recognized the figure weaving through the crowd with a tray of drinks.

It was her.

Elena.