the hunter and her prey

Chapter 1 From the very first second she laid eyes on him, Elara knew he was hers. Not someday, not eventually — but now, always, and forever. It wasn’t attraction. It wasn’t interest. It was something raw, something feral that spread through her veins like fire. She didn’t even know his name, but her heart whispered one word: mine. He sat at the far end of the hall, unaware of her stare. Tall, composed, too perfect for this world. He was surrounded by people, yet completely untouchable — until her gaze locked onto him. Elara’s chest tightened. The thought of him smiling at anyone else made her sick. The idea of another woman touching him was unbearable. No. She would never allow it. He was her fate, her mate, her entire existence. And if fate didn’t agree? Then she would bend fate until it broke. Elara didn’t waste a second. While others glanced shyly at him from a distance, she rose from her seat and walked across the room with deliberate steps. Her heels clicked against the polished floor, but she barely heard them. Every beat of her heart screamed him, him, him. The man — Kael — finally noticed her. His sharp eyes flicked to her face, curious, cautious. Most people probably would’ve melted under his gaze, but Elara only leaned closer, lips curving into a bold smile. “You.” Her voice was steady, certain, as though she had been waiting her whole life for this moment. “What’s your name?” He blinked at her directness. “Kael. And you are…?” “Elara.” She whispered her own name as though it was a vow. “Now you know. And from this moment, you belong to me.” The entire table went silent. He almost laughed, but the intensity in her eyes stopped him cold. It wasn’t a joke. She meant every word. Without hesitation, she reached out and touched his wrist, fingers wrapping possessively around it. Not asking permission. Not seeking approval. Claiming him. “I don’t care who you were before this,” she continued softly, her grip tightening. “From today, I’ll be the only one standing by your side. If anyone tries to come between us—” her gaze darkened, fire flickering in her tone, “—I’ll tear them apart.” Kael stared at her, silent. Something in his chest shifted — confusion, shock, maybe even fascination. No one had ever spoken to him like that. And Elara only smiled wider. Because she already knew: He was hers. He just didn’t realize it yet. ---