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

It’s been two days since I told Jared I love him and he said it back. Since then, we’ve spent every second together. But behind all the smiles and laughs, along with our roaming hands, I can’t stop thinking about Evelyn and Carl. So today, I’m going home to visit. Jared isn’t exactly happy about it, but I didn't think he would be.


When I arrive home, the moment is tense. I’m alone, as I asked Jared to give me some space.


I took another huge bite of stir-fry after announcing I was dating Jared and going to a party with him. It lodges itself in my throat, and it takes half a glass of water just to wash it down. Evelyn sets her knife and fork on the plate while joining her hands together, her elbows resting on the table.


"You’re dating Jared?" she questions with her head tilted. 


I quickly glance at Carl, who isn’t eating either. I nod. "Yeah, I am."


Carl clears his throat. "Since when?" No one sounds happy.


Chapter 69: Layla