Elegbede_Habeeb

The first time they met, it felt like fate. The second time, it felt like a warning.

She was running from a past that refused to die. He was chasing a future that seemed just out of reach. When their worlds collided, it was more than just love—it was an obsession, a wildfire that threatened to burn them both alive.

But love isn’t always salvation. Sometimes, it’s destruction in disguise.

Bound by Fire: Ashes of Desire

The air in the cabin thickened with tension.

Luca struggled to sit up, his body screaming in protest, but Evelyn was already by his side, pressing him back down.

"You're not in any shape to run," she said firmly.

Luca smirked, though it was weaker than usual. "Then I guess I'll have to fight."

Dante crossed his arms. "You can barely sit up without looking like you're about to pass out."

Evelyn shot Dante a sharp look. "Who found us?"

Dante ran a hand through his hair, exhaling. "We don't know yet. But they're armed, and they're closing in fast."

Luca clenched his jaw. Too soon. He hadn't healed, and they weren't prepared.

Evelyn turned to Dante. "How much time do we have?"

"Minutes," he said grimly. "We either run now, or we fight and hope we survive."

She turned to him, her voice cold and unwavering. "You're not dying here."

Luca stared at her, something unreadable flashing in his eyes. But he didn't argue.

Dante grabbed a bag from the corner, tossing Evelyn a gun and shoving a knife into Luca's hand. "We go through the back, keep to the trees. There's a car stashed two miles out."

Evelyn nodded, gripping Luca's arm to help him up.

The second he was on his feet, a sharp gasp left his lips. Pain. His entire body shook from the effort, but he didn't fall.

Evelyn's heart clenched. He was too damn stubborn.

Dante cracked the door open, checking the outside. "Clear for now. Move fast."

Luca leaned against Evelyn as they slipped out, into the cold night. The wind bit at her skin, but adrenaline drowned out the chill.

The tree beside them splintered, and Dante cursed. "They're here!"

Evelyn didn't hesitate. She grabbed Luca's hand and ran.

Branches whipped against her face, gunfire echoing through the woods.

Luca stumbled but kept moving. Because he had no choice.

Another shot. This time, too close. Evelyn turned just in time to see the glint of a rifle aimed at Luca.

Pain exploded through her shoulder, fire searing through her body.

Luca caught her before she hit the ground, panic flashing in his eyes. "Evie!"

Dante fired back, cursing. "We have to keep moving!"

Luca's arms tightened around her. "Stay with me, Evie."

Run or Burn