Moonlit heart

Chapter 3: Moonlit Encounters

The morning sun filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor as Elena wandered through Silverwood, a camera in hand. She felt invigorated by the crisp air, hope blooming in her chest after her chance meeting with Kellan. The memory of his intense gaze lingered, igniting a spark of curiosity that urged her to explore deeper into the woods.

Elena had always been drawn to nature, but now it felt as though she was being called to uncover a deeper connection—one that had been hidden from her. She snapped photos of sunflowers swaying in the breeze and delicate ferns unfurling, but her thoughts kept drifting back to Kellan. What was it about him that sent shivers down her spine and made her pulse quicken? Could it be the charm of the mysterious man or something more?

As she rounded a bend in the path, she caught sight of a flicker of movement. Heart pounding, she raised her camera, instinctively snapping a photo of a sleek, dark figure slipping around a tree. She knew the town was full of wildlife, but something about the movement felt different, almost sentient.

“Elena,” came Kellan’s voice, smooth as velvet, pulling her from her reverie. She spun around to see him emerging from the thick underbrush, his presence commanding as he stepped into the light. His hair glinted with sunlight, and the forest seemed to part for him as he approached.

“Kellan! You startled me,” she admitted, trying to ignore the rush of emotions surging through her.

“I didn’t mean to frighten you,” he said, a charming smile lighting up his face. “I felt a pull to this area and thought I might find you here.”

“Really? Why?” she asked, intrigued.

“There’s something special about this place during the day, hidden beneath the layers of shadows. It’s alive,” he mused, glancing around as if he could see more than just trees and sunlight. “Just like you.”

Elena felt her cheeks flush at his words. “I’m just a photographer trying to capture beauty. The forest is where I find peace.”

“Then allow me to show you its secrets,” Kellan offered, extending his hand. For a brief moment, hesitation flickered in her mind. But the warmth of his touch pulled her forward, guiding her deeper into the woods.