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

I lie on the top of the duvet. I didn’t think I would really fall asleep, but I do.


Everything in the bathroom drips with gold. The chandelier is a ridiculous size. Each small teardrop crystal sparkles, and the reflection dances along the cream tiles. I step up to the double sinks. I press my index finger to one of the gold taps, and when I remove my hand, my imprint is left. As I move to grab some tissue to clean off my fingerprint, the lights go out. The room is pitch black, and I feel my way along the wall to the door.


I enter the hallway that has some light. I pause when I hear voices.


I can’t make out the words or who Jared is speaking to. I walk in the direction of their voices.


"Jared." He has his back to me, and when he turns, the light from the window catches his features.


Trepidation drips slowly down my spine as I look past Jared and to the other person, who I can’t fully make out.


Chapter 59: Layla