Chasing Shadows

Childhood friends, bound to fall in love. But what happens when love becomes an obsession?
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"Why are you here?" I blurt out before I can stop myself, surprising both of us. He raises his eyebrows, clearly caught off guard by the question.

"Mara, come sit down," he says, smiling and patting the empty space beside him. I shake my head but, despite myself, find my feet moving toward the couch.

"Are you still mad at me?" He asks, amusement dancing in his eyes.

"Shut up," I mutter, rolling my eyes. It's clear I've got some unresolved anger.

"You're the one who wanted out, remember?" he says, the hint of a challenge in his tone.

"You threw me out of your car and disappeared," I snap, bitterness dripping from my words.

"Okay, not my finest move. But I had to," he replies, his eyes flickering with a brief, almost imperceptible pain.

"Why are you back now? Why my dad's company? Is this some kind of game for you?" I ask, frustration edging my voice.

"Oh, bunny," he says, sliding closer. My breath hitches at the sudden proximity. "I told you I'd never let us be apart again." He grabs my face with his hand, shaking it slightly as if to emphasize his point. I gasp at his words.

"W-wha-" I say nervousness stealing my ability to form words.

"Yes, bunny. This is not a game. Never apart again. Okay?" He says sliding his thumb over my bottom lip.