Consumed by you : Whispers of devotion

Chapter 3: A Dangerous Obsession

**

Elara felt as though her world was slowly spiraling out of control. Every day that passed with Sophie in the picture seemed to heighten her feelings for Lucas. She watched as he and the new girl spent more time together, their laughter echoing through the neighborhood like a constant reminder of what she feared losing. The fire of her obsession began to blaze with an intensity she couldn't ignore, a mixture of longing and desperation fueling her thoughts.

One afternoon, after yet another day of watching Lucas from a distance, Elara found herself pacing in her living room. She ran her fingers through her long, brownish-black wavy hair, biting her lip as her mind raced. *What am I doing?* she thought, the question spinning endlessly in her head. She couldn't let Sophie steal Lucas away.

An idea crept into her mind, one that both excited and terrified her. *What if I just took him away for a bit?* It was absurd, but the thought sent shivers down her spine. The concept of "kidnapping" him was more about reclaiming what she believed was rightfully hers—his attention, his affection, the bond they shared. She envisioned it not as an act of malice but as a way to remind him of their connection, to show him that they belonged together.

That evening, after the sun dipped below the horizon and the streetlights flickered to life, Elara made her way to Lucas's home. She wore a loose-fitting sweater that draped over her petite frame, a cozy garment that contrasted with the turmoil roiling inside her. As she walked, her heart pounded in her chest, a mix of anxiety and exhilaration surging through her.

When she reached Lucas's front door, she took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. The sound of laughter and music drifted from within the house. Sophie was there, and Elara's heart clenched. But this time, she wouldn't be an outsider looking in.

She knocked softly, and moments later, Lucas appeared, his expression brightening when he saw her. "Elara! Hey!" He stepped aside, inviting her in. The warmth of his smile washed over her, and for a moment, the tension melted away.

"Hi, Lucas! I just thought I'd drop by," she said, forcing a smile despite the storm brewing in her heart.

"Perfect timing! We were just talking about pastries," he said, motioning to Sophie, who sat on the couch, her red hair falling in loose waves around her shoulders.

Elara felt a flicker of annoyance at Sophie's presence but quickly squashed it. *Focus,* she told herself. She wanted to talk to Lucas alone, to remind him of their bond. As they chatted, she maintained a light demeanor, laughing at their jokes, but inside, her mind raced with her plan.

"Lucas," Elara said suddenly, her heart pounding. "How about a little adventure? Just you and me?"

He looked at her, a hint of confusion crossing his face. "An adventure? Like what?"

Sophie perked up, her curiosity piqued. "Ooh, I'm in! What do you have in mind?"

Elara shot her a glance, annoyance flaring again. "Actually, I was thinking just Lucas and me. You know, a chance to catch up."

"Oh," Sophie said, her enthusiasm dimming slightly. "That sounds fun. Maybe another time, then?"

Lucas hesitated, glancing between the two women. "Um, yeah, sure, Elara. What did you have in mind?"

Elara felt her pulse quicken at his willingness. "How about we go for a drive? I found this beautiful spot by the lake. It's so peaceful."

Lucas's eyes lit up, a smile spreading across his face. "That sounds great! Let me just grab my jacket."

As he stepped away, Elara's heart raced with anticipation. This was it. This was her chance to pull him away from the chaos Sophie brought into his life. When Lucas returned, he looked ready and eager, and Elara felt a surge of triumph.