Page 51 of Hunted

It's hard to believe those words came out of my mouth. A few weeks ago, before I met Zara, I never would have imagined myself saying anything like that, but I was a different man then. A man consumed by darkness and a thirst for blood. I planned to hunt her and make her prey before ending her life in the wilderness long behind me. It was a sick game I’d played with countless victims, a twisted desire that had consumed me for so long.

But then I met her, and everything changed.

Frank’s gaze softens slightly at my words, and I can see him struggling with his protective instincts.

He leans back in his chair, studying me intently. “You say you’ll support her dreams,” he says. “But how do we know you won’t just hold her back? Zara has worked hard to get where she is.”

I meet his gaze steadily, refusing to back down. “I would never hold Zara back. Her ambition, her passion for her work—it’s one of the things I admire most about her. I want to help her achieve her goals, not hinder them.”

Jackie reaches across the table, placing her hand over Zara’s. “Sweetheart, we just want you to be happy. If this is what you want and Aksel makes you happy, we’ll support you.”

Zara’s eyes shine with unshed tears as she squeezes her mother’s hand. “He does, Mom. He does.”

I feel a warmth spreading through my chest at her words. It’s a foreign sensation, feeling accepted and part of something other than myself. I’ve spent so long as a lone wolf that I’ve forgotten what it’s like to belong.

Frank clears his throat, drawing our attention back to him. “Well, Aksel, I can’t say I’m thrilled about this. But if Zara trusts you, I’ll trust her judgment.”

He fixes me with a stern look, his eyes boring into mine. “But let me make one thing clear. If you ever hurt my little girl, if you ever give me a reason to doubt your intentions, there’ll be hell to pay. Understood?”

I nod, meeting his gaze without flinching. “Understood, sir. I would never do anything to hurt Zara. She’s everything to me.”

The words feel strange on my tongue, a confession I never thought I’d make. But as I look at Zara, her eyes shining with love and trust, I know it’s true. She’s become my whole world, the light that chased away the darkness within me.

Frank nods, seemingly satisfied with my response. Jackie smiles warmly at me, her earlier reservations melting away.

As the waiter arrives to take our orders, I feel a sense of relief wash over me. I know there will be challenges ahead and obstacles to overcome as Zara and I navigate this new path together. But for now, at this moment, I allow myself to bask in the warmth of acceptance, the feeling of finally belonging somewhere.

27

EPILOGUE

ZARA

One year later…

Istand at the summit, the crisp mountain air filling my lungs as I observe the breathtaking view. The snow-capped peaks stretch out before me, a testament to the raw beauty of the Norwegian wilderness. It's hard to believe that a year has passed since I decided to stay with Aksel and pursue my passion for climate research.

With each passing day, my blog has gained more followers, eager to learn about the impact of climate change on this stunning landscape. The data I collect has become invaluable, not only to my readers but also to the Norwegian government. The contract they offered me was a dream come true, validating my hard work and dedication to my research.

As I set up my equipment, my thoughts drift to Aksel. His unwavering support has been the cornerstone of my success. He's been by my side every step, encouraging me to pursue my dreams and providing security in this wild, untamed land.

The wind whips through my hair as I take the final readings, the numbers on my screen painting a picture of the changing climate. It's a sobering reminder of the importance of my work and the need to raise awareness and inspire action.

I glance up from my data readings, my heart beating harder when I see Aksel emerge from the tree line. He moves with the grace of a predator, his muscles rippling beneath his sweat-soaked shirt. He's wearing one of his camouflage masks, which always excites me. They only add to his dark and rugged appearance. But it's the sight of the dead animal slung over his shoulder that sends a shiver down my spine.

As he draws closer, I can see the blood smeared across his skin, a testament to his prowess as a hunter. The coppery scent fills my nostrils, and I find myself inexplicably drawn to him, like a moth to a flame.

"Successful hunt?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

Aksel grins, his eyes glinting with feral intensity, making my pulse race. "Always, little bird."

He sets the carcass down, and I can't help but stare at how his muscles flex beneath his inked skin. The sight of him, primal and feral, awakens a desire I can barely comprehend.

I shake my head, trying to clear my thoughts. What is wrong with me? How can I be so turned on by the sight of blood?

But as Aksel steps closer, his scent envelops me, and I lose the battle against my desires. His hand reaches out, brushing a strand of hair from my face, and I lean into his touch, craving more.

"You're thinking about it, aren't you?" Aksel's voice is a low purr.

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