Your families had been sworn enemies for generations, their hatred rooted as deep as ancient oaks, and no storm had ever swayed them. Yet in this cruel feud, you found him, as Juliet found her Romeo, a soul carved from the same longing that burned within your own. “For I am yours, and thou art mine,” you thought, though no vow had been spoken aloud. The very thought of him was a rebellion, a whispered defiance against the bloodline that bore your name.

The cobblestone path was slick with rain, the lamplight reflecting in silver pools at your feet. The alley reeked faintly of ash and metal, a place where secrets lived and thrived. And there he was, standing in the shadows as though he belonged to them, his dark coat blending into the night. The moonlight kissed the sharp planes of his face, and his gray eyes found you instantly, burning with something unspoken.

“Are you sure no one saw you?” His voice was quiet, almost too careful, but his eyes softened when they met yours.