Jared
They say love and hate dance together on one line.
My feelings for Layla don’t dance on the line; they destroy it.
It’s been seven years since she disappeared.
And now she’s back, but things have changed—I’ve changed.
I’m no longer the Jared she remembers, the boy who wanted to protect her.
I’m very much my father’s son, and I take what I want, and what I want is Layla.
But this time, I’m keeping her forever.
Layla
Seven years—that’s how long it’s been since I’ve seen him.
After painstakingly putting myself back together, I’m finally ready to start a life without his memory chasing my every step.
Imagine my surprise when my new beginning leads me straight back to him.
Only he’s not the boy I remember.
He’s angry.
Damaged.
Hiding secrets that want to destroy him.
He hates me. He wants me.
I’m not sure I’ll survive the man he has become. His demons threaten to destroy us both.
Broken People Duet: Deceive Me is created by Vi Carter, an eGlobal Creative Publishing signed author.

Broken People Duet (1): Deceive Me

"She went out and asked me to mind Nicco." There. That wasn’t so hard. I would have been pleased with myself, but Chester doesn’t seem happy with my answer.


"I can see she’s not here. Out where?" His clenched fists have me taking a step back. My back hits the wall. "I don’t know," I answer honestly and praise myself once again for speaking.


I pick a spot on the floor as he walks to the fridge, helping himself to a drink. Tears burn my eyes. Tears that I refuse to let fall. 


I glance up at Chester as he gulps down the full Coke before burping loudly. My hands shake as I roll them into fists. Heat travels up my neck until it scorches my cheeks. "I think you should leave." God, I wish my voice sounded stronger. It’s as weak as a newborn kitten.


He laughs at me before taking a step closer. "Don’t think. Just get on the phone and call Ashley." 


Chapter 32: Layla