SOULBOUND

Chapter 13: Shadows of Desperation

The moonlight spilled into the room, casting a soft glow on Zoey and Gabriel as they sat on the windowsill, their hands entwined. Their connection had deepened with every passing day, their hearts and souls intertwining in a dance of love and destiny.

Zoey traced circles on Gabriel's palm with her fingertips, her voice barely above a whisper. "Gabriel, I never thought I would find someone like you. Someone who understands me, who sees beyond the surface. With you, I feel like I've finally found my place in this vast universe."

Gabriel turned to her, his eyes filled with adoration.

"Do you remember the first time we met?" Gabriel asked, a fond smile playing on his lips.

Zoey's eyes sparkled with joy as she nodded. "How could I forget? It was at that masquerade ball, and you swept me off my feet with your charm and grace. I was captivated by your presence."

Gabriel's gaze softened as he traced circles on the back of Zoey's hand. "And your smile, it was like a beacon of light in a sea of faces. From that moment, I knew you were the missing piece in my immortal existence."

Zoey leaned closer, her voice filled with warmth. "We've had so many beautiful moments together. The walks in the moonlit gardens, the whispered conversations beneath the stars. It felt like we were the only two people in the world."

Gabriel's eyes gleamed with tenderness. "Those stolen moments were magic, Zoey. It was in those moments that I realized how deeply I had fallen in love with you. My heart had found its forever home in yours."

Zoey's voice trembled with emotion. "And I, too, fell in love with you, Gabriel. Every day, my love for you grows stronger, defying the bounds of time. I never thought I would find such a profound connection in this immortal existence."

Gabriel cupped Zoey's face in his hands, his gaze locked with hers. "You are my eternal flame, Zoey. You bring light and warmth to the darkest corners of my existence. Together, we are unstoppable."

As their eyes held each other's, they felt the weight of centuries and lifetimes pass between them. The memories they had forged together were etched in their hearts, an unbreakable bond that transcended time and space.

Zoey's voice quivered with raw vulnerability. "Sometimes, Gabriel, it's overwhelming to think about the eternity that lies before us. But as long as we're together, I know we can face anything."

Gabriel pressed his forehead against Zoey's, his voice filled with unwavering love. "We are immortal, Zoey, but it is our love that truly sets us apart. With you by my side, I am no longer afraid of the infinite. Our love will be our guiding light."

Their lips met in a tender and passionate kiss, sealing their devotion and promising a future entwined in an everlasting embrace. At that moment, they were reminded of the power of their love and the journey they had yet to embark upon.

Their memories merged with the present, painting a tapestry of love and resilience. Together, they would face the challenges of their immortal existence, drawing strength from the depths of their shared past and the promise of their boundless future.

As they broke the kiss, their foreheads still touching, they whispered in unison, "Forever, my love."

***

Zoey and Emily strolled through the bustling streets, their laughter filling the air as they indulged in a day of shopping. Bags in hand, they entered a cozy café to rest their weary feet and enjoy a cup of steaming coffee.

Emily took a sip of her latte, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "So, spill the beans, Zoey. Is Gabriel the guy you've been dreaming about? The one who makes your heart skip a beat?"

Zoey blushed, a smile playing on her lips. "Yes, Emily. Gabriel is everything I've ever imagined and more. He's kind, compassionate, and his love for me is like nothing I've ever experienced."

Emily leaned forward, her voice filled with excitement. "Oh my, this sounds serious! Have you thought about the future? Marriage, perhaps?"

Zoey's cheeks turned a deeper shade of pink as she replied, "Well, it's still early, but I can't deny that the thought has crossed my mind. Gabriel and I have this connection, this bond that defies logic. It's like we were destined to be together."

Emily clapped her hands in delight. "Oh, Zoey, I can already picture a beautiful wedding. You in a stunning white gown, Gabriel looking dashing in a tailored suit. It will be a fairytale come true!"

Zoey giggled, her eyes shining with happiness. "You really know how to get my imagination going, Emily. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. For now, I'm just cherishing every moment I have with Gabriel."

As the afternoon sun began to fade, Zoey and Emily made their way back to their car, their hearts filled with joy and anticipation. But as they turned a corner, a group of men suddenly emerged, their faces masked by shadows.

Fear gripped Zoey's heart as strong hands seized her, pulling her away from Emily's grasp. She cried out for help, her voice drowned by the chaos and confusion.

"Zoey!" Emily screamed, desperately reaching out for her friend, but it was too late. The men disappeared into the dark alley, taking Zoey with them.

Tears streamed down Emily's face as she frantically dialed her phone, calling Gabriel and relaying the devastating news. "Gabriel, they took her! Zoey's been abducted. We need to find her, please!"

Gabriel's voice was filled with determination and anguish. "Emily, stay calm. I'll do everything in my power to bring her back safely. I won't let anything happen to her, I promise."