Ivory_Smart_2462

When a global mutation crisis grants people extraordinary abilities, Elias finds himself with one of the rarest gifts—healing. But instead of being a hero, he becomes the most wanted man on the planet, hunted by governments, mercenaries, and power-hungry elites who see him as a tool for immortality.  

Determined to live on his own terms, Elias flees, using his abilities to help those in need while staying under the radar. But survival gets complicated when a cold, lethal ex-mercenary named Kieran Wolfe offers him protection—for a price.  

As enemies close in and secrets unravel, Elias must decide: keep running, or place his trust in a man who might just be more dangerous than those hunting him.

The enigmatic healer

Eliana's breath caught in her throat. The footsteps outside slowed, then stopped. Whoever was out there was close—too close.

Kieran remained still, his body coiled like a predator waiting to strike. His hand tightened around his dagger, but he didn't move yet. He was listening, reading the situation like it was second nature.

A metallic clink. The unmistakable sound of a weapon being drawn.

In one fluid motion, he grabbed Eliana's wrist and pulled her toward the back of the warehouse, his grip firm but not painful. She followed without hesitation, her heart hammering against her ribs.

The moment they reached the rear exit, he pressed a hand against the old wooden door. It didn't budge.

Eliana swallowed hard. "Kieran—"

He lifted a finger to his lips. Then, with silent efficiency, he reached into his belt and pulled out a small, thin blade. He worked the lock in seconds, barely making a sound.

The voices outside grew clearer.

Another voice, lower, colder. "Then they're inside. We take them alive."

Eliana's stomach twisted. They weren't planning to kill her.

Kieran shoved the door open just enough to slip through, pulling her after him. They emerged into a narrow alley behind the warehouse. The air was thick with the stench of damp wood and rot, but Eliana barely noticed.

Kieran wasted no time. He grabbed her hand and took off at a swift but silent pace, keeping to the shadows.

Eliana ran to keep up, her boots barely making a sound against the uneven stone. Her lungs burned, but she didn't dare slow down.

Behind them, the warehouse door crashed open.

Eliana's pulse pounded in her ears. "They have more men."

They rounded a corner, slipping into another alley. It was darker here, the buildings packed closer together.

Kieran abruptly stopped, his eyes scanning the street ahead. His grip on her wrist tightened slightly.

Eliana followed his gaze—and felt ice trickle down her spine.

Kieran's jaw tensed. "They expected us to run."

Eliana clenched her fists. "So what do we do?"

For the first time, Kieran hesitated. It was only for a second, but she saw it—the flicker of uncertainty in his eyes.

Then he exhaled and looked at her. "Do you trust me?"

She barely knew him. He was dangerous, unpredictable. And yet, he had saved her life. More than once.

The shouts behind them were getting closer.

Something unreadable passed through his expression. Then, before she could react, he pulled her closer—

And vaulted them over the nearest wall.

Eliana barely had time to stifle a yelp as they landed on the other side, tumbling into the darkness.

**a desperate escape**

a desperate escape