A surge of adrenaline shoots through my veins at the thought that I might actually get to learn something about these beasts that now rule the world. Most of what I’ve learned so far has been through eavesdropping or trial and error. Half of the time, I’m left with more questions than answers, but this feels different. It’s like I’m holding a piece of their history.
For years, the Fated were looked down on. Disregarded as mentally unstable. Lost to the pull of the moon and the craze of bloodlust. But over time, those who seemed mad were, in truth, destined for another. While some were drawn to a love so perfect the stars had to intervene, others were destined for a lifetime of heartache—continuously pushed together, only to be torn apart time and time again.
Those who were lucky enough to find their perfect match became known as Love Locked. Their love went beyond that of normal mates. It was deeper, ruled by the heavens themselves. No matter what, they would be drawn together, unable to resist the call of their heart’s other half. Over time, they would see thatthey had met their match in all walks of life. Those who were Love Locked would experience all eight types of love:
Eros — the love of sex and passion
Philia — the love of friendship; deep-seated in trust and mutual respect
Storge — the love of family
Agape — the love that is unconditional and selfless
Ludus — the love of playfulness and flirtation
Pragma — the love that stands the test of time; grounded in duty and responsibility
Philautia — the love of self
Mania — the love rooted in jealousy and obsession
The Love Locked could be drawn to each other over time or all at once. Either way, they were destined to love one another so wholly that nothing and no one could stand in their way.
Those who were destined for a lifetime of heartache became known as Soul Bound. Once their paths crossed, they would forever be pushed together and pulled apart. Each one seeking the other out, only to be met with an obstacle meant to separate them. Where Love Locked would experience all eight types of love, Soul Bound would be ruled by Eros and Mania. Their passion, destructive. Their jealousy, dangerous. No matter how much time or distance is between them, they will always return to one another. Forever bound by a hopeless love destined for tragedy.
“Grey!” My heart nearly burst from my chest when I look up to find Sophia standing in the doorway. “I said your name like three times.”
