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*Chapter 1
The dimly lit art gallery was abuzz with the city's elite, all gathered to witness the unveiling of Luna's latest masterpiece. Asher, however, wasn't among the art enthusiasts. He stood by the bar, nursing a glass of scotch, his eyes scanning the room with disinterest.
His business partner, Rachel, had dragged him to the event, insisting that it would be a great opportunity to network. But as he looked around at the sea of unfamiliar faces, Asher couldn't help but feel out of place.
He checked his watch for what felt like the hundredth time, calculating how much longer he'd have to stay before making a polite exit. Just as he was about to make his move, his gaze landed on a vibrant painting across the room.
The colors seemed to pulse with life, drawing him in with an otherworldly force. Asher felt an inexplicable pull, as if the painting was beckoning him closer. He excused himself from the group and made his way through the crowd, his eyes fixed on the canvas.
As he approached, he noticed a woman standing beside the painting, her eyes shining with passion. She was lost in thought, oblivious to the commotion around her. There was something ethereal about her, a quality that seemed almost... fragile.
Asher's curiosity got the better of him, and he found himself drawn to her. He slowed his pace, not wanting to startle her, and cleared his throat to announce his presence.
The woman turned, her gaze locking onto his. For an instant, time froze. Asher felt like he'd been punched in the gut, his breath knocked out of him. There was something in her eyes, a deep sadness that seemed to echo his own.
"Luna," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, as Asher approached.
He smiled, feeling a sense of awkwardness wash over him. "Asher," he replied, holding out his hand.
Luna's handshake was firm, but her touch sent shivers down his spine. As they stood there, hands clasped, Asher felt a spark of electricity run through his body.
It was as if he'd stumbled into something much bigger than himself, something that would change the course of his life forever.
But for now, he just smiled, taking in the sight of Luna's radiant smile, and the vibrant painting that seemed to pulse with life behind her.