Chapter 13 : Taking the Lead

Elena’s Point of View

Elena adjusted the hem of her dress for what felt like the hundredth time that afternoon, glancing at her reflection in the office window. The long, flowing green fabric was simple yet elegant, with a subtle V-neckline that added just enough flair without being too bold. It was casual, but it made a statement -exactly what she had wanted.

“You look amazing,” Sara had said as they stood in the boutique the day before, inspecting the dress in the mirror. “Trust me, if he doesn’t notice you in this, he’s a fool.”

Elena had laughed nervously, her mind already racing with thoughts of how today might unfold. She hadn’t admitted it to Sara, but she had picked the dress with Ren in mind. She wanted to look her best, to remind him of the woman he had walked away from without asking for a phone number or setting up another meeting.

Now, standing at the front of the seminar room, she felt a mix of anticipation and nerves. The room was filling quickly, students and visitors taking their seats, and she couldn’t help but scan the crowd for him.

And then she saw him.

Ren entered with the same calm confidence he always seemed to carry, his tall frame and striking features immediately drawing attention. He was dressed simply - dark jeans and a black shirt that fit him far too well - but it was enough to make her heart skip a beat.

He’s here.

Her breath hitched as their eyes met briefly before he found a seat near the back of the room. She didn’t miss the way his gaze lingered on her, taking in every detail of her dress, her hair, her presence. A small, triumphant smile tugged at her lips.

But what really caught her attention was the flicker of something darker in his expression as he scanned the room. She followed his gaze and realized what had triggered it: a group of male students near the front, their heads turning as she moved to the podium.

Ren’s jaw tightened, his amber eyes narrowing slightly. He wasn’t just watching her - he was watching them.

He’s jealous, she thought, her chest warming at the realization. So he cares. That’s all I need to know.

With her confidence bolstered, she launched into her lecture, her voice steady and clear as she introduced the topic of shifter prophecies. As she spoke, she could feel Ren’s gaze on her, an almost tangible force that kept her pulse racing.

She had planned every detail of this lecture, crafting her words to hold the audience’s attention, but a part of her knew she was really speaking for him. She wanted him to hear her, to see the passion she poured into her work, to understand the kind of person she was.

And when she recited the prophecy, she swore she saw a flicker of recognition in his eyes.

The lecture ended, and the room slowly emptied as students and guests trickled out. Elena smiled and nodded at a few lingering attendees, answering a question here and there, but her focus never wavered from the man sitting quietly in the back.

When the last student left, she turned her attention fully to Ren, her heart pounding as she took a deep breath. This was it. Her moment to make a move.

He stood as she approached, his presence as commanding as ever. For a moment, neither of them spoke, the air between them charged with unspoken words.

“Ren,” she said finally, her voice soft but steady.

“Elena,” he replied, his lips curving into a faint smile. “Another fascinating lecture. You have a way of making these stories come alive.”

She felt a flush rise to her cheeks but kept her composure. “Thank you. I’m glad you enjoyed it.”

He tilted his head slightly, his gaze steady. “I always do.”

Her breath caught at the weight of his words, but she didn’t let herself falter. Instead, she smiled, letting a touch of playfulness creep into her tone. “You know, I’ve realized something about you.”

“And what’s that?”

“You’re not very good at follow-through,” she said, raising an eyebrow.

He blinked, clearly caught off guard. “What do you mean?”

“You came to my seminar, went out for a drink with me, and then disappeared for a week without giving me your number or asking for mine,” she said, crossing her arms lightly. “That’s not exactly the best way to make an impression.”

For a moment, he just stared at her, and then a low chuckle escaped him, warm and rich. “You’re right,” he admitted, his expression softening. “That wasn’t my best move.”

“Good,” she said, her smile widening. “So let’s fix that, shall we?”

Before he could respond, she reached into her bag, pulled out her phone and handed it to him. “Here. Put your number in.”

Ren hesitated for only a second before taking the phone, his fingers moving quickly over the screen. When he handed it back, she saw his name at the top of a new contact entry.

“Now we’re even,” he said, his voice low and teasing.

“Not quite,” she replied, her heart racing as she decided to take it one step further. “What are you doing tonight?”

His brows lifted slightly, but his smile never wavered. “Nothing that can’t be rescheduled.”

“Perfect,” she said, slipping her phone into her bag. “Meet me at the café across from campus at seven. My treat this time.”

Ren’s gaze softened, his amber eyes glowing with a warmth that made her knees feel weak. “I’ll be there.”

“Good,” she said, turning toward the door. But before she left, she glanced back over her shoulder, her smile playful. “And Ren?”

“Yes?”

“This time, don’t make me wait a week.”

His laughter followed her out the door, a sound that sent a thrill coursing through her.

As she walked back to her office, Elena’s steps felt lighter, her heart buoyed by a sense of victory. She had taken the lead, made her intentions clear and Ren had said yes.

For the first time in days, she felt like the uncertainty between them had shifted. This was a new beginning, and she couldn’t wait to see where it would take them.