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 reeked of gunpowder and salt. The sharp sting of metal rang in Evelyn's ears as bullets ricocheted off the shipping containers around them.

Luca moved like a shadow, ducking, weaving, and firing with deadly accuracy. But they were surrounded. Valerio's men weren't backing down, and their sheer numbers were overwhelming.

Evelyn crouched behind a crate, gripping her gun so tightly her knuckles turned white. Her heart pounded, but fear had no place here—not when Luca was fighting for his life beside her.

She peeked around the corner. Four men. Advancing fast.

The other two turned toward her, but Luca was already there, his knife flashing in the dim light. Blood splattered onto the metal floor as they collapsed.

Then—Valerio's voice cut through the chaos.

"You're making this harder than it needs to be."

Valerio stood just a few feet away, his gun aimed directly at Luca.

Luca's hands tightened at his sides. He was fast, but not fast enough.

Valerio smirked. "You always were reckless, Luca. And for what? Her?" His dark eyes flicked to Evelyn. "Was it worth it?"

Evelyn felt rage coil inside her. "If you're trying to get inside his head, it won't work."

Valerio's grin widened. "Oh, I don't need to. Because I know exactly how this ends."

Evelyn's breath caught as Luca staggered back.

She ran toward him, but Valerio was faster. He grabbed her by the wrist, twisting her arm behind her back as she struggled.

Luca collapsed to one knee, his hand pressed to his side. Blood seeped through his fingers.

Valerio leaned in close, whispering in Evelyn's ear. "You thought you could beat me?" His grip tightened. "You're mine now."

Evelyn's pulse roared in her ears. She met Luca's eyes across the deck. Desperate. Angry. Determined.

The Cost of Love