Eternal bonds: love beyond blood
Awakening shadows

Evelyn's eyes flickered open, her surroundings unfamiliar and her heart racing like a caged bird. The room was shrouded in dim light, casting eerie shadows on the walls that seemed to dance in time with her fear. The memories of the masquerade ball and the brutal attack surged to the forefront of her mind, and a wave of terror washed over her

Her breath came in ragged gasps, and her body trembled as she tried to sit up. Panic tightened its grip on her, threatening to suffocate her fragile sense of control. The world had turned upside down in a matter of moments, and she felt utterly defenseless.

A presence at her side drew her attention, and she turned her head to replace Alexander seated nearby, his eyes fixed on her with a mixture of concern and understanding. Despite his calm demeanor, the turmoil she felt inside was mirrored in his gaze.

"You're awake," he said softly, his voice like a lifeline offered in the midst of chaos.

Evelyn's voice wavered as she spoke, the weight of her fear heavy in her words. "What... what happened?"

Alexander's gaze never left hers, his expression a mosaic of emotions that mirrored her own. "You were attacked at the masquerade ball. They targeted you."

Tears welled in her eyes, the trauma of the attack mingling with her sense of vulnerability. "Why? Why me?"

He sighed, his gaze softening as he reached out to touch her hand, a gesture of comfort and reassurance. "Evelyn, I... I wanted to protect you from this world. From the darkness that lurks beneath the surface."

Her fear-fogged mind struggled to grasp his words. "This world... What are you talking about?"

His gaze held hers, the truth he was about to reveal a heavy burden. "There are forces at play beyond our understanding—ancient clans that seek power and control. I'm a part of that world, and I didn't want it to touch you."

Evelyn's heart pounded in her chest, her thoughts a jumbled mess of confusion and fear. "You... You're a part of that?"

Alexander's voice held a quiet intensity. "Yes, but I wanted to shield you from it. I didn't want you to be drawn into the chaos and danger that comes with it."

Tears spilled down her cheeks, a mixture of fear and relief coursing through her veins. "I was attacked because of you? Because of this world I didn't even know existed?"

His grip on her hand tightened, his expression heavy with regret. "I never wanted you to be involved in this. My world is dangerous, and I wanted to keep you far away from it."

Evelyn's gaze remained locked on his, her fear slowly giving way to a newfound determination. "But I'm involved now, aren't I?"

Alexander nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Yes, and I won't let anything harm you again.