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

After taking a bath and changing into another dress, this one baby pink, I sit down for my food at the table that’s nestled between the windows. Kerry hasn’t left my bedroom, and Amanda arrives back in. Amanda tidies the area while Kerry brushes my hair. I’m glad I don’t have to wear my sling anymore. I can move my arm more, but brushing my hair won’t be easy.                                                                                                                                                                                                             


It’s been hours since Jared dropped me off, and when he enters my room, there’s a clear shift in the air. 


He juts his chin toward me and lowers his eyebrows. "You okay?"


The sandwich I’ve been eating feels lodged in my throat. "What’s wrong?" I get up, and Kerry steps away from me.


"Can you give us the room?" Jared addresses Kerry and Amanda.


Chapter 78: Layla