Excerpt from Fated Shadows #2
“That’s precisely why I’m drawn to it. There’s a gap in our understanding of what happened to the wolves in this region.
I believe their story deserves to be told, even if it’s a story of absence and loss.
By exploring the history, documenting the sightings, and understanding the factors that led to their decline, I hope to bring attention to the significance of their presence in the past and the potential for their return. ”
He studied her. “It’s an unconventional approach,” he acknowledged cautiously.
“But I suppose there’s merit in uncovering forgotten narratives and connecting them to the legacy of these creatures.
It won’t be an easy task, though. The information is scarce, and many of the firsthand accounts have been lost to time. ”
She pursed her lips and stared back at him. “I’m ready for the challenge,” she assured him. “I believe there’s a story waiting to be unearthed, and I’m determined to find it.”
She took a deep breath. “Ethan, I understand your reservations, but I truly believe there’s something valuable in this research,” she said, her voice earnest. “Do you think there’s anyone else I could reach out to?
Maybe someone who has studied wolves extensively or who has firsthand experience working with them? ”
I didn’t realize that I was being ‘reserved.’ When he finally spoke, he tried to sound less guarded.
“There are a few researchers and organizations that might be worth looking into,” he said, hoping he came off as friendly.
“I can compile a list of recommended readings, studies, and contacts for you. But I won’t sugarcoat it—you’ll need to approach this with a critical eye and be ready to face opposing viewpoints. ”
She nodded. “Thank you, Ethan. I appreciate your help,” she replied, her voice laced with sincerity. “This is my thesis we’re talking about, and I want to ensure I leave no stone unturned. I want to challenge my own assumptions and delve into the complexities.”
He leaned back in his chair. “If you’re truly committed to going beyond the surface and exploring the nuances of wolf conservation, then I’m willing to assist,” he said, trying to come across as more optimistic.
“Just promise me you won’t shy away from the less glamorous aspects.
Wolves aren’t just noble creatures; they’re part of a larger ecosystem with its own set of challenges. ”
Her gaze glinted. “I’ll approach this with an open mind and a commitment to uncovering the truth. I want to understand the intricate balance between human interests, conservation efforts, and the survival of these animals.”
She ran her fingers through the ponytail that was on her shoulder. He felt his eyes drawn to her hand and wondered if she was feeling self-conscious.
“I believe there’s a story to be told, one that hasn’t received as much attention,” she said. “And I want to highlight the challenges and opportunities unique to this region.”
Ethan leaned forward, his brow furrowing slightly. “I can respect that,” he admitted. “Alright, Ji-min. I’ll put together that list for you while you’re here. Otherwise, with this grant proposal I’m working on, I might completely forget.”
“Sure, that would be great.”
“Just give me a few minutes to look up the information,” he said, turning to the laptop near him.
“Thank you so much. I really appreciate you taking the time to do this.”
He nodded, his fingers already tapping on the keyboard. “No problem at all. It is a small break from my grant writing frenzy. I’ll do my best to gather the most relevant resources for your research.”
Now, who would work as a good resource? He went through his contacts, then compiled a list of researchers and included their email addresses in an email.
He looked away from the computer and glanced at her.
She looked relaxed and lost in her thoughts.
That’s when he realized that she had been tense and uncomfortable while they were talking.
Way to go, Sullivan, that’s the way to make a good first impression.
“I sent the email,” he said, leaning back in his chair. “It might not be exhaustive, but it should provide you with a good starting point.”
She nodded. “That’s fantastic. I’m looking forward to looking over those sources. Thank you.”
He offered her a brief smile. “You’re welcome. Just remember that research like this requires patience and persistence. Don’t get discouraged if you encounter roadblocks along the way.”
He could swear that she was about to roll her eyes at him.
Instead, she smiled while she stood up. “I won’t give up easily, Ethan. This means a lot to me, and I’m ready to put in the work.”
With a nod, he stood up and extended his hand.
She reached out to clasp it, but as their palms touched, an unexpected jolt of electricity surged through him.
A tingling sensation traveled up his arm, leaving a trail of warmth in its wake.
She looked up at him, and her breath hitched ever so slightly.
Their hands lingered for a fleeting second longer than necessary, as if time had momentarily frozen.
She withdrew her hand and mustered a smile. He could feel the energy in the air as if there was an unspoken understanding, a brief but powerful connection that defied explanation. What the hell was that?
“Good luck with your research, Ji-min,” he said, sitting back down and turning to his laptop. “Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.”
“Thanks again, Ethan,” she said. Through his wolf senses he could hear her heartbeat hammering away as she walked away.
His wolf stirred against his skin again. He stared at his laptop, though he wanted to call out to her and keep her near for a little bit longer. He looked behind him and watched her walk through the door.
Well, that was weird.
*****
Chapter Two
The harsh glow of the computer screen made the words blur together into a jumble of letters and numbers. With a sigh, Ethan pushed himself away from the desk, rubbing at his tired eyes.
“Enough for now,” he muttered to himself, glancing at his watch. The runner’s meeting wasn’t for another hour, but he knew he needed a break from the monotony of work.
Deciding a change of scenery was in order, he headed out of the office, the cool air hitting him as he stepped onto campus. But before he could fully immerse himself in the surroundings, a familiar hand landed on his arm, pulling his attention.
Turning, he found Lidia standing beside him, her presence magnetic as always. She was a gorgeous woman with a mischievous glint in her eye and an air of confidence that drew people to her effortlessly.
Her style was casual yet alluring, often opting for jeans and a simple T-shirt that accentuated her natural beauty. Her tousled hair fell in waves around her face, framing her features with an effortless charm.
Despite their busy schedules as PhD students, Lidia and Ethan had a special thing going on—they were friends who also hooked up. It was built on mutual respect and understanding, plus the undeniable attraction that simmered just under the surface.
As he met her gaze, a playful smirk tugged at the corners of her lips.
“Ethan, hey!” Her voice was bright and cheerful as she greeted him, her smile infectious. “I’m so glad I ran into you. I’m heading out to a conference, but when I get back, we should hang out.”
Ethan raised an eyebrow. “Hang out, huh?” he teased, a hint of amusement in his voice.
Lidia chuckled, a playful glint in her eyes. “You know me too well,” she admitted. “But seriously, I’ve missed spending time with you.”
He smiled. “Text me when you’re back in the City, and we’ll make plans.”
Lidia grinned. “You got it,” she replied, leaning in to press a quick kiss against his cheek before turning to leave.
As he watched her go, he knew that when she returned from her conference, there would be more than just hanging out on the agenda.
He turned in the other direction and thought about their conversation.
Their understanding was clear: they focused on their studies and agreed to keep their relationship casual.
It was a dynamic that worked for them, at least for now.
He was undoubtedly drawn to her—she was beautiful, intelligent, and their chemistry was undeniable.
But beneath the surface, a nagging sense of apprehension gnawed at him.
He had been down this road before, dating humans and hiding his true nature.
It always ended in heartache and disappointment, leaving him wary of opening up to anyone outside his pack.
He wondered if history would repeat itself with Lidia.
Despite their connection, he couldn’t see a good time to broach the subject of his shifter identity.
The thought of revealing such a deeply guarded secret filled him with dread, yet he knew it was inevitable if their relationship were to progress.
He shook his head. For now, he would enjoy her company. He appreciated her honesty and clarity about their relationship; they’d always kept it chill, no strings attached. Lidia’s straightforwardness allowed him to relax, knowing they had no hidden expectations or pressures.
For Ethan, the simplicity of their dynamic was a welcome change from the complexities of his past relationships. He was content to go with the flow, as long as their arrangement continued to work for both of them, he was more than happy to embrace its ease and simplicity.
A sudden craving for caffeine hit him. “I could use a coffee,” he mused and decided to go to the Coffee House.
Pushing open the door, he was greeted by the warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the gentle hum of conversation.
He made his way to the counter, placing his order with a grateful smile.