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

"A beach," I say, staring out the window. Jared turns off the car, and my heart leaps as he takes my hand in his.


"Do you still trust me?" he asks, his eyes filled with raw emotion that causes my breath to hitch. I nod, and a slow grin spreads across his face.


"Let’s go." He’s out of the car and at my side in a moment. I pick up my bag as he opens the door for me. One hand is outstretched, and I reach out. My fingers look so small in his hand. He tightens his grip, and I’m not sure what to do. I keep waiting for him to let me go, but he still holds my hand as we walk down to the beach, our fingers entwined. Jared tugs on me, and I look up at him. His brows rise, and he has a silly smile on his face. This part of the beach is empty. A few people walk toward the larger gathering further down.


Chapter 41: Layla