chapter 1
The gallery was too quiet.
Elena hated quiet places when strangers were watching.
She stood in front of her painting, pretending she didn’t feel the weight of eyes behind her.
“Interesting choice of colors,” a voice said from behind her.
Low.
Calm.
Controlled.
She turned slowly.
A man stood there in a black coat, hands in his pockets, expression unreadable.
People around him didn’t speak loudly — they just… moved away slightly.
Like space belonged to him.
“Thanks,” she said carefully, turning back to her painting.
But he didn’t leave.
Instead, he stepped closer.
“You didn’t choose those colors because they’re pretty,” he said. “You chose them because they’re angry.”
Elena’s breath slowed.
“That’s not true,” she said.
A pause.
Then softly, “You don’t lie well.”
Her fingers tightened.
“Who are you?” she asked.
He looked at her like the answer was obvious.
“Someone who notices things others ignore,” he said.
Then he leaned slightly closer.
“And I noticed you first.”
Silence fell between them.
Heavy.
Uncomfortable.
Unforgettable.
End of Chapter 1
