The Bond Beyond Time

The moon hung low over the enchanted forest, its silver light weaving through the ancient trees like strands of silk. The air was thick with the scent of lavender and pine, the kind of scent that lingered in the memory long after it had faded. Elira’s heart pounded in her chest as she darted through the shadows, her bare feet barely making a sound against the moss-covered ground. Behind her, the distant howls of the Wolfguard grew louder, echoing with a menace that quickened her steps.

She clutched the crystal pendant around her neck, its faint, pulsing glow a cruel reminder of the life she had left behind. The enchantment it carried was both a curse and a promise—a tether to the one who had stolen her heart.

Kalen had warned her. "The moment you enter the human realm, the bond will weaken. But if you return before the dawn of the third moon, I’ll find you again." His emerald eyes had burned with a determination that made her believe anything was possible.

But she hadn’t made it back in time.

Now, as the Wolfguard closed in, their snarls piercing the night, Elira couldn’t help but replay the final moments on that cursed bridge. If only she had run faster. If only she had ignored the pain in her legs and the weight in her chest. If only...

A sudden branch snagged her dress, and she stumbled, collapsing onto the damp forest floor. The crystal pendant slipped from her grasp, rolling a few feet away. She reached for it, but her fingers froze as a shadow loomed over her.

“Running from destiny never works, princess,” a voice growled, deep and laced with a cruel kind of triumph.

Elvira’s breath hitched as the figure stepped closer, moonlight glinting off his silver armor. This wasn’t just any Wolfguard—this was Malrik, the commander of the pack, and the one who would ensure she never saw Kalen again.

Yet, as her pulse slowed and fear tightened its grip, a flicker of defiance lit her amber eyes. If she had to face destiny, she would not face it kneeling.

Somewhere, deep within the forest, Kalen would feel the bond shatter—or awaken to her call. And Elira prayed, with every ounce of magic left in her, that he would come for her.

If only she had run faster.