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

"Lead the way," I say before glancing up at Jared. A muscle tics in his jaw as his eyes cloud with sadness, which makes no sense. 


I would have asked him what was wrong, but Alex tugs at his arm, getting his attention. "Come on. Mark’s waiting for us," she says.


As I walk behind the happy couple, I glance over at Kieran, who’s observing me. He gives me a wave, and I wish I were sitting with him. The idea of Alex and I in such close proximity is making my belly ache. But these are the people that Jared loves. Nothing is going to happen at a crowded party, and so far, Alex has been sociable. I need to be happy for Jared. 


Chapter 42: Layla