Echoes of the Heart - 15. Chapter 15: Carter and Jeremy's happiness expands. Can anything disrupt it?

Carter rang the doorbell once more, his fingers trembling slightly as his nerves got the better of him. He paced back and forth outside, the night air brushing against his face, doing little to cool the heat of worry pulsing in his chest. Just as he raised his hand to ring again, the door opened.

Jeff stood in the doorway, his face lighting up the moment he saw Carter.

“Carter!” he greeted warmly, stepping aside to let him in.

Carter rushed in, his eyes darting around the fancy condo. The polished marble floors, sleek furniture, and soft ambient lighting spoke of understated luxury, but Carter had no time to admire the setting. His face was a picture of worry as he turned to Jeff.

“What’s going on?” he asked, his voice laced with desperation. “Why are you here and not at home? What’s happening?”

Jeff closed the door behind him, his demeanor calm as he gestured for Carter to take a seat.

“Carter, calm down—”

“Calm down?” Carter interrupted, his voice rising. “Jeff, your mother showed up at my house! She threatened me, said I destroyed your family! Things are spiraling out of control, and you want me to calm down?” His hands went to his temples as he shook his head. “Where’s Jeremy? Please tell me he’s okay.”

Jeff’s face grew serious, and he opened his mouth to respond, but before he could, a small, excited voice cut through the tension.

“Carter!”

Carter turned quickly, just in time to see Oliver running toward him, his small face beaming with joy. Kneeling down instinctively, Carter opened his arms, catching the boy as he barreled into him with a giggle. Carter wrapped his arms tightly around Oliver, pressing kisses all over his little face, savoring his laughter.

“I missed you so much, Carter!” Oliver said, his voice bursting with excitement.

Carter pulled back slightly, cupping the boy’s cheeks with a tender smile.

“I missed you too, champ,” he said softly, his worries momentarily forgotten. “Why are you so happy, huh?”

Oliver’s smile widened, his eyes sparkling.

“Because you’re here! And you make Daddy so happy, so that makes me happy too!”

Carter let out a soft, heartfelt moan as he kissed the boy’s forehead, a bright smile lighting up his face. It was as if Oliver’s joy had melted away all his stress in that moment. But as he caressed Oliver’s hair, his eyes flicked past him, catching sight of Andrew standing a little distance away, watching them silently.

Carter’s heart sank slightly. Taking a deep breath, he gently handed Oliver to Jeff and stood, walking slowly toward Andrew. The boy’s gaze didn’t waver, his expression unreadable. Carter knelt in front of him, wearing a sheepish smile.

“Hey there, buddy,” he greeted softly.

Andrew didn’t respond, his gaze steady and unwavering. Carter hesitated, then reached out, gently taking Andrew’s small hand in his.

“I missed you too,” he said sincerely. “And… I’m sorry.” He held Andrew’s hand to his ears in a gesture of apology, his voice filled with emotion. “I’m sorry for everything. For making your dad go away for so long, for upsetting you, and for anything else I might’ve done. But I promise you, Andrew, I’m not trying to take your dad away. I just want to share his love… if that’s okay with you.”

Andrew’s eyes flickered with something—hesitation, perhaps. His voice was soft but firm as he said, “Uncle Dexter said you’re trying to make Daddy not love us anymore.”

Carter felt his stomach tighten, the weight of Dexter’s words sinking in. He forced a gentle smile, leaning closer.

“Uncle Dexter was wrong,” he said softly. “Tell me something—has your dad shown you any less love since I’ve been around?”

Andrew shook his head, his gaze finally meeting Carter’s.

“I promise you, that’s never going to happen,” Carter said, his voice steady with conviction. “In fact, I’ll make sure your dad spends as much time with you as before. Okay?”

Andrew’s face brightened, a small smile spreading across his lips.

“You promise?”

Carter chuckled, holding out his pinky.

“Pinky promise.”

Andrew’s small finger linked with his, and the boy laughed excitedly before throwing his arms around Carter. Carter hugged him tightly, pressing kisses to his cheeks as Andrew giggled, the sound filling the room with warmth.

As the moment lingered, Jeff cleared his throat, drawing Carter’s attention.

“You should probably go talk to Jeremy,” Jeff said softly. “He’s pretty upset.”

Carter stood, still holding onto Andrew for a moment before letting him go.

“Where is he?” he asked, worry creeping back into his tone.

Jeff gestured. “He’s on the rooftop. Probably lost in his head.”

Carter nodded, smoothing his shirt as he took a deep breath.

“Alright,” he said, giving Jeff a small smile. “I’ll talk to him.”

With one last glance at the boys, Carter headed toward the door, determination in his step.

***

Carter stepped out of the elevator, his shoes clicking softly against the concrete rooftop. The cool night air greeted him, but it did little to calm his racing heart. His eyes scanned the expanse of the rooftop, searching for Jeremy. It was dark; the overhead lights were off, casting long shadows that only deepened his unease. He called out, his voice echoing faintly in the quiet.

“Jeremy?”

There was no response. Carter’s footsteps echoed as he walked further, weaving between scattered furniture and potted plants. His heart began to pound harder, uncertainty creeping in as he moved toward the edges of the space. Then, as he turned a corner, something caught his eye.

He froze in place, his breath hitching. A few feet ahead, a path was lined with glowing candles on either side, their soft, flickering light illuminating a trail of vibrant red petals. The path led to a circle of lights arranged in the shape of a heart, surrounded by a sea of more petals. The entire setup glowed warmly against the night’s darkness, exuding a dreamlike beauty.

Carter’s heart raced as he took in the sight.

“Am I in the wrong place?” he murmured to himself, his mind swirling with confusion and awe. Gathering his courage, he called out again, “Jeremy?”

This time, a familiar voice came from behind him. “Right here.”

Carter spun around, and his heart skipped a beat. Jeremy stood there, looking breathtakingly handsome. His hair was slicked back, the sharp lines of his tailored shirt accentuating his confident presence. His smile, the softest and most genuine Carter had ever seen, lit up his face as he gazed at him.

Jeremy’s voice was gentle but firm.

“Give me your hand,” he said, extending his own.

Without hesitation, Carter placed his hand in Jeremy’s, the warmth of his touch steadying the storm in his chest.

“Jeremy… What’s going on?” he asked nervously, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and trepidation.

“Just trust me,” Jeremy said with a soft smile. “Come with me.”

Carter gave a sheepish smile, allowing Jeremy to lead him down the candlelit path. As they walked, Carter’s heart raced, the surreal beauty of the moment making him feel as though he were in a dream.

When they reached the glowing heart, Carter stopped and turned to Jeremy.

“What is this?” he asked, taking a deep breath to steady himself. “Jeff said you left the house, and your mom… she came to me. She threatened me. Jeremy, you can’t leave your family because of me. I told you, I don’t want that. What will people even call this… this relationship we have?”

Jeremy’s expression softened as he stepped closer, taking Carter’s hand and pressing a kiss to it.

“You’re asking what people will call this?” he asked, his voice trembling slightly. “Carter… for the longest time, I felt like a bird that had forgotten how to fly. Fear and pain clipped my wings. But you… you taught me to fly again. You brought me back to life.”

Carter’s eyes welled with tears, his heart thudding in his chest as Jeremy continued.

“When we met, we didn’t know we needed each other. But look at us now. We’ve grown to love, to trust, to live.”

Carter smiled through his tears, his emotions overwhelming him. “Jeremy…”

Jeremy chuckled, his eyes shining with unshed tears.

“Even back then, when I was fighting you, I still felt calm when you were near. And when you weren’t around, nothing made sense. I used to question why, but now I know… I loved you even then. And when I saw you grow stronger, leading the company, I fell for you even harder.”

Carter squeezed his hand tightly, his heart ready to burst.

Jeremy’s voice lowered, filled with emotion.

“When Ethan died, I thought my heart died with him. But then you came along. And now, Carter, for the first time since Ethan, I feel alive again. If this is insanity, then I am insanely in love with you.”

Carter sobbed softly, his love for Jeremy pouring out in every tear. “Jeremy…”

Jeremy moved closer, his voice unwavering.

“This love I feel for you is stronger than anything. I would fight the world for you, bring you all the happiness you deserve, even gift you the stars.”

Carter chuckled, a tear sliding down his cheek. But guilt flickered in his eyes. “Jeremy, I—”

Jeremy shook his head firmly.

“Don’t. You’ve turned me into a complete person, Carter. I can’t imagine a life without you. And if we ever got separated…” Jeremy’s voice cracked slightly. “I wouldn’t recover. I’d be shattered.”

Carter shook his head vehemently. “That will never happen,” he said passionately. “I’d die before letting you go. My heart only beats for you, Jeremy.”

Jeremy stared at him, overwhelmed by the depth of Carter’s love. Slowly, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, ornate box.

“Well then,” he began, his voice steadying as he dropped to one knee. “Carter Hayes…”

Carter’s breath caught as Jeremy opened the box, revealing a stunning gold ring encrusted with diamonds that sparkled like a constellation. His entire body trembled as shivers of joy and disbelief coursed through him.

“I, Jeremy Rivers, love you more than words can ever express. I want to spend every moment of my life with you. Will you marry me?”

Carter let out a soft sob, his emotions spilling over as memories of their journey flooded his mind. Shaking, he raised his hand and spread his fingers, nodding vigorously.

“Yes,” he whispered.

Jeremy exhaled a shaky breath, a tear sliding down his cheek as he carefully slid the ring onto Carter’s finger. He kissed Carter’s hand repeatedly, his joy palpable. Rising, he pulled Carter into his arms, whispering against his ear, “I can’t wait to make you Mr. Rivers.”

Carter chuckled, his face buried in Jeremy’s chest.

“You just made me the happiest man on the planet.” He pulled back slightly, looking into Jeremy’s eyes. “But… are you sure? Aren’t we moving too fast?”

Jeremy cupped his face gently.

“I’ve never been more sure about anything in my life.”

Their lips met again, this time in a kiss filled with passion and promises of forever. The warmth of the moment consumed them until—

POP!

Confetti rained down on them, breaking the kiss as laughter filled the air. Carter turned, startled, to see Oliver and Andrew grinning mischievously, holding confetti cannons.

“Congratulations!” they shouted in unison, their faces glowing with excitement.

Carter laughed, his face turning pink as he looked at the boys. Jeff appeared, clapping his hands.

“Congratulations to the both of you,” he said warmly.

Carter narrowed his eyes playfully. “Jeff… you knew?”

Jeff grinned sheepishly. “Guilty as charged. I helped with the decorations.”

Carter laughed, burying his face in Jeremy’s chest, feeling both shy and ecstatic.

Jeremy looked down at his sons, his smile radiant.

“Boys, you’re now looking at your soon-to-be other father.”

The boys squealed with joy and rushed forward, wrapping their arms around both Jeremy and Carter. Carter’s eyes welled up again as he hugged them tightly, feeling the love and acceptance in their embrace. It was a moment he would cherish forever.

***

The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, revealing Carter, his face glowing with happiness, his hand entwined tightly with Jeremy’s. The warmth between them was palpable, and it reflected in the way their eyes met, laughter and love radiating from both men. Jeremy’s smile was uncharacteristically wide, his usually composed demeanor now relaxed as he chuckled softly at something Carter said. It was rare to see Jeremy this carefree, but with Carter, it seemed natural—effortless.

As they walked down the hallway, their pace slow, savoring the moment, Jeremy glanced at Carter, his heart swelling with emotion. Every step closer to the apartment felt like a step into a new chapter of their lives. Carter turned his head, catching Jeremy’s gaze, and grinned brightly.

When they reached the door, Carter reached for the handle, but Jeremy pulled him back gently, spinning him around. Before Carter could react, Jeremy cupped his face and kissed him, his lips firm yet soft, pouring his love into the gesture. Carter melted into the kiss, his hands finding their way to Jeremy’s chest as he smiled against his lips.

“I love you so much,” Jeremy whispered when he pulled back, his voice low and husky.

Carter’s grin widened, his cheeks flushing.

“I love you too,” he replied softly, his eyes sparkling.

As Carter turned back toward the door, ready to unlock it, something caught his attention. His eyes landed on a basket sitting on the floor near the door. It was beautifully decorated, wrapped in clear cellophane, with a bow tied neatly at the top. A card attached to it had the word "Congratulations" written in bold, elegant letters.

Carter chuckled, his curiosity piqued.

“Did you do this, Jeremy?” he asked, glancing over his shoulder at him, his tone playful.

Jeremy frowned, following Carter’s gaze to the basket. His brows furrowed as he shook his head.

“I didn’t send you anything,” he replied, his voice laced with confusion. He tightened his grip on Carter’s hand, stepping closer.

Carter’s smile faltered slightly as he turned back to look at Jeremy.

“Maybe someone from the office? A client?” he suggested, his voice light with curiosity, trying to brush off the odd feeling creeping into his chest.

“Maybe,” Jeremy murmured, though his tone was doubtful.

His sharp eyes were fixed on the basket now, something in his gut twisting uncomfortably.

Carter let out a soft laugh, trying to shake off the tension.

“I’m curious to see what it is,” he said, taking a step toward it.

Before he could reach it, Jeremy pulled him back again, this time more firmly.

“Wait,” Jeremy said with a small smirk, though his voice held an undertone of seriousness. “What if it’s from one of your admirers? I should check it out first, so I can send it back to him with a note that you’re already taken.” he teased, his attempt to lighten the mood making Carter laugh out loud.

“Alright, Mr. Protector,” Carter said, rolling his eyes playfully and stepping aside.

Jeremy smiled but kept his focus on the basket as he crouched down. The basket was adorned with red and gold ribbons, its contents hidden beneath a layer of sheer fabric. Jeremy tilted his head, inspecting it closely, when a faint rustling sound came from within.

Jeremy stiffened. “What the—”

Before he could finish, a sharp, searing pain shot through his hand. Jeremy flinched violently, letting out a strangled gasp as he dropped the basket. The next moment, a black snake slithered out from the fallen basket, its scales glinting in the hallway light, its fangs still visible from the strike.

“Jeremy!” Carter screamed, his heart leaping into his throat as he rushed forward.

Jeremy stumbled back, clutching his wrist with his free hand. His face was already paling, and sweat beaded on his forehead.

“It… bit me…” he gasped, his voice strained and weak.

Carter’s chest tightened as fear flooded his veins. He grabbed Jeremy’s arm, his hands trembling as he inspected the bite marks on his fiancé’s hand. Two dark puncture wounds stared back at him, the skin around them already swelling and reddening.

“Stay with me, Jeremy. Don’t you dare pass out on me!” Carter’s voice shook as he fought back his own rising panic.

Jeremy swayed slightly, his legs giving out as he dropped to his knees.

“Carter… my head… feels light…”

Carter’s mind raced, and he quickly yanked his belt free from his waist.

“You’re not going anywhere, Jeremy Rivers!” he barked, though his voice cracked with emotion.

He wrapped the belt tightly around Jeremy’s forearm, just above the bite, creating a makeshift tourniquet to slow the venom’s spread.

Jeremy winced, his breathing shallow as he leaned against the wall.

“You’re so bossy,” he muttered weakly, attempting a faint smile.

“Shut up and let me do this,” Carter snapped, though tears blurred his vision.

He fumbled for his phone, dialing emergency services with trembling hands as he screamed for help from his aunt or anyone that could hear him at that point. As the call connected, he rattled off their address, his voice shaking with urgency.

“My fiancé was bitten by a snake! Please hurry!”

Jeremy’s eyes fluttered, his strength fading fast. “Carter…”

“Don’t you dare!” Carter yelled, his voice breaking. He cupped Jeremy’s face, forcing their eyes to meet. “You’re staying with me, Jeremy. Do you hear me? You’re not leaving me!”

When Jeremy’s head lolled slightly, Carter’s desperation surged. With trembling hands, he lowered his mouth to the bite wound, sucking at the venom and spitting it out onto the floor. At that time, Sheila came out of the apartment, her eyes widening and her mind wondering what was going on. When she realized what was happening, she rushed to Carter.

“Carter… don’t…” She screamed in fear. “That could be dangerous.”

“I don’t care!” Carter cried, his voice cracking as tears streamed down his face. “I’m not losing him! I refuse to lose him!”

He continued sucking out the poison. Each time he sucked at the wound, the bitter, metallic taste of venom burned his tongue, but he didn’t stop. His chest heaved as adrenaline coursed through him, his body trembling from the sheer force of his determination.

Finally, after what felt like hours, the elevator door opened and Carter saw paramedics running towards them. He took a deep breath and nearly collapsed in relief. He cradled Jeremy against him, whispering softly.

“Help’s coming, Jeremy. Just hold on. Please hold on.”

Jeremy’s eyes fluttered open briefly, his lips forming the faintest of smiles.

“You’re… my hero,” he whispered before his eyes closed again.

When the paramedics arrived, Carter refused to let go of Jeremy until they reassured him he’d be taken care of. As they loaded Jeremy onto a stretcher, Carter followed closely, his heart heavy with fear but fueled by unwavering determination. He climbed into the ambulance, holding Jeremy’s hand tightly as the vehicle sped off toward the hospital.

“I’m not letting you go,” Carter whispered fiercely, tears streaming down his face. “Not now. Not ever.”

***

The sterile scent of antiseptic hung in the air of the hospital room as Carter sat beside Jeremy, his eyes never leaving his fiancé. Jeremy sat on the hospital bed, his hand gently cradled in Carter’s, a fresh bandage wrapped securely around the bite mark. His face, though slightly pale, glowed with a soft smile as he glanced at Carter. But the peace in the room was broken by the stern voice of the doctor, who stood by Jeremy’s bedside, his brows drawn together in concern.

“What you did was incredibly dangerous,” the doctor said, his voice firm and slightly raised. His gaze shifted to Carter, whose grip on Jeremy’s hand tightened instinctively. “Do you realize how much you risked your own life by trying to suck the venom out? That snake wasn’t just any snake—it was highly venomous. Thank God the paramedics managed to find and kill it; otherwise, we wouldn’t have been able to identify the species in time to administer the correct antivenom.”

Carter swallowed hard but kept his eyes on Jeremy, his voice trembling but resolute.

“I couldn’t think of anything else at that moment,” he said softly. “I wasn’t going to stand there and watch him die. He’s my everything… I had to save him.”

Jeremy’s smile deepened as he brought Carter’s hand to his lips, kissing it tenderly.

“And you did,” he whispered, his voice hoarse but filled with warmth. “You saved me.”

The doctor chuckled, his stern expression softening as he patted Jeremy’s shoulder.

“You’re a lucky man, Mr. Rivers. Not everyone has someone willing to risk their life to save theirs.”

Jeremy’s gaze never left Carter’s face. His dark eyes shimmered with emotion as he spoke.

“I don’t know what I did in my past life to deserve such a gem,” he said, his voice quiet but full of meaning.

Carter blushed, dropping his gaze briefly, though the smile on his face betrayed his happiness. He felt his heart swell as Jeremy continued to hold his hand, his touch steady and reassuring despite everything that had happened.

The doctor straightened up, adjusting the stethoscope around his neck.

“I’ll leave you two alone for now,” he said, moving toward the door. “But I’ll be back soon to check on you.”

Carter and Jeremy nodded as the doctor left, and the room fell into a serene silence. Jeremy shifted slightly, wrapping an arm around Carter’s waist and pulling him close. Carter let out a soft laugh as he leaned into Jeremy, resting his head against his chest.

“I could stay like this forever,” Jeremy murmured, his voice soft and filled with contentment.

But before they could savor the moment, the door flew open abruptly, revealing Laura, her face pale and her eyes wide with fear. Jeff followed closely behind her, his expression more composed but tinged with concern.

“Jeremy!” Laura exclaimed, rushing toward her son. Her hands trembled as she reached for him. “Are you okay? My God, I was so scared when I heard what happened!”

Carter instinctively moved away, giving Laura space, but Jeremy’s grip on his hand tightened, silently urging him to stay.

Laura cupped Jeremy’s cheeks, her eyes scanning his face as if to confirm he was truly unharmed.

“How are you feeling? You got bitten by a snake, for God’s sake!” she asked, her voice shaking with emotion.

Jeremy placed a reassuring hand over hers.

“I’m fine, Mom,” he said softly. “Really. And it’s all because of my fiancé.”

Laura froze, her hands dropping to her sides as her gaze slowly shifted to Carter. Her face drained of color, her eyes narrowing slightly as they scanned him. When her gaze landed on the ring gleaming on Carter’s finger, her lips parted in shock.

“Fiancé?” she whispered, her voice barely audible. Her head shook slowly as she backed away, tears welling in her eyes. “I… I never imagined you would do this, Jeremy.”

Jeremy sighed, his voice calm but firm.

“Mom, please don’t start causing drama. If you’re here to say anything, let it be your blessings and support.”

Laura’s composure shattered, her voice rising. “Blessings? Support? Do you even know how worried I was about you? I prayed all the way here, thinking something terrible had happened, and this is what I walk into? You getting engaged to Carter after everything I’ve told you?”

Carter’s head dropped, his heart pounding painfully in his chest as he stared at the floor. He felt the weight of her words pressing down on him, but he said nothing.

Jeff stepped forward, placing a hand on his mother’s shoulder.

“Mom, please,” he said gently. “Calm down. The most important thing is that Jeremy and Carter are both okay.”

Laura furiously shrugged off Jeff’s hand.

“No!” she yelled. “I’m not going to accept this. Carter has done enough, and it’s time I put him in his place.”

She moved toward Carter with fury in her eyes, but Jeremy, despite his weakened state, stood from the bed and blocked her path.

“Mom, stop,” Jeremy said, his voice low but commanding. “This boy is my fiancé, soon to be my husband, and I won’t allow you to touch him.”

Laura froze, her son’s words hitting her like a physical blow. Tears spilled from her eyes as she stared at him, her expression a mixture of pain and disbelief.

“Jeremy,” she whispered, her voice trembling. “Why are you doing this to me?”

Jeff quickly stepped in, sensing the tension in the room.

“Mom, don’t do this,” he said firmly. “Has your hatred for Carter overshadowed your love for Jeremy? You should be thanking Carter for saving his life, not attacking him.”

“Thank him?” Laura snapped, turning to Jeff. “Why should I thank him? Yes, he saved Jeremy, but I’m sure he’s the reason Jeremy was in danger in the first place! He’s that kind of person, and I will never accept him as my son-in-law!”

Jeremy’s voice rose sharply, his frustration evident.

“I don’t care if you won’t accept Carter, Mom. That’s fine. I’ve already left the house, and nothing is going to stop me from marrying him.”

He grabbed Carter’s hand tightly, determination blazing in his eyes.

“Let’s go,” he said, starting toward the door.

But Laura stepped in front of him, her hands clasped together in desperation. “Please don’t leave, Jeremy,” she pleaded, her voice cracking. “If you leave, I’ll die of worry.”

Jeremy’s expression darkened. “What’s the point of staying, Mom? You’re never going to treat Carter properly, and it’s only going to lead to more fights between us. It won’t make a difference.”

Carter tugged on Jeremy’s hand, stopping him.

“It will make a difference,” he said softly.

Both Jeremy and Laura turned to him, their expressions filled with confusion.

Carter took a deep breath, stepping closer to Jeremy. “Jeremy, the whole point of marriage is to bring two families together, to create love and harmony. But all I’ve seen is your relationship with your mother falling apart because of me. I don’t want that. I can’t bear it.”

Jeremy shook his head, his voice breaking. “Carter, this is different—”

“No, it’s not,” Carter interrupted. His voice was gentle but firm. “I’ve been where you are, Jeremy. I’ve seen relationships destroyed by stubbornness and pride. I’ve lived it. And I don’t want you to make the same mistake.”

Laura’s breath hitched as she listened, tears streaming down her cheeks. She took a deep breath and spoke, her voice shaky.

“Fine, Jeremy. You’ve won.”

Her lips trembled as she forced a smile.

“I can’t promise I’ll love or respect Carter, but I won’t cause you any problems. Please, just come back home so I can take care of you.”

Jeremy studied her, unsure if she was being genuine. But Carter placed a hand on his shoulder, his eyes pleading.

“Please, Jeremy. Do it for me.”

Jeremy sighed, his gaze softening as he looked at Carter. Then he turned to his mother.

“I’ll come back, but only if Carter is allowed to visit whenever he wants and is treated with respect.”

Laura hesitated, but finally, she nodded. “Granted,” she said quietly. “But we need to go home.”

Jeremy smiled faintly and wrapped his arms around her in a brief but meaningful hug. Carter stood back, his heart swelling at the sight of the mother and son reconciling. But deep down, unease simmered within him as his mind drifted back to the snake and the basket. His gaze flickered to Laura, and a chilling thought crossed his mind.

Could she have been the one who sent that gift?

***

As the grand doors of the mansion swung open, Laura stepped inside, her hand protectively wrapped around Jeremy’s arm. He leaned against her slightly, walking weakly but still managing to smile softly. The light from the chandelier illuminated the joy in Laura’s face; she seemed triumphant, as though she had finally accomplished what she had set her heart on. Despite the concessions she had made earlier, the satisfaction of having her son back under her roof outweighed everything else.

Jeremy’s gaze wandered around the familiar hall, the warmth of home stirring mixed emotions within him. Laura tightened her grip on him, her expression softening as she whispered, “You’ll be okay now, my son. I’ll take care of everything.”

Meanwhile, in the adjacent hallway, Dexter had been pacing idly. The moment he saw Laura enter with Jeremy, his heart seemed to leap in his chest, and life rushed back into him as if he had been holding his breath. A genuine, relieved smile spread across his face as he began walking toward them, his steps quickening with excitement.

But then he saw Carter stepping through the door behind them, his presence quiet but undeniable. Dexter froze in his tracks, his eyes narrowing as the warmth in his chest turned to ice. His smile faded, replaced by a scowl of disbelief.

“What is going on here?” Dexter’s voice cut through the air sharply, his eyes darting to Laura and then back to Carter. “Why is he allowed to come into this house?”

Jeremy’s head snapped up at the sound of Dexter’s voice, and a flash of rage burned across his face. His voice, though weak, was firm and biting.

“You don’t get to question who’s welcome in this house, Dexter,” he growled, his piercing gaze locking onto Dexter’s. “Especially not when you’re nothing more than an unwelcome guest yourself. And let me not find out that you are the one that wanted to hurt Carter because you’ll not like me. I’ll make you pay for it, I swear.”

Dexter’s mouth opened as if to retaliate, but before he could, Laura stepped forward, her voice carrying an air of finality.

“Carter is here as Jeremy’s fiancé,” she stated clearly, her eyes sharp as they bore into Dexter. “And he is not to be disturbed.”

The words struck Dexter like a blade. His eyes widened, and he stumbled a step backward, his lips parting as a gasp escaped him.

“What?” he whispered, disbelief flooding his voice. “Fiancé? What do you mean? After everything he’s done, you’re still allowing him to—”

Laura’s expression turned cold, her earlier warmth gone entirely. She cut him off with a sharp glare.

“This is my house, Dexter,” she said firmly. “And I can allow whomever I choose into it. Carter is here, and you will not trouble him. Do you understand?”

Dexter stood frozen, his shoulders slumping as if all the strength had been drained from him. His chest heaved, his breath unsteady, and his eyes shimmered with unshed tears. It was as if she had ripped him open, exposing the raw wound inside. For a moment, he looked like a man on the brink of breaking.

Turning away from Dexter without another word, Laura faced Carter, her tone softening slightly.

“Take Jeremy upstairs,” she instructed. “He needs to rest. I’ll prepare some soup for him.”

Carter nodded respectfully.

“Thank you,” he said quietly before wrapping an arm around Jeremy’s waist.

Jeremy leaned into him, his weight heavy but trusting as Carter began to guide him toward the staircase. They ascended slowly, Jeremy’s steps unsteady, and Carter’s focus entirely on him. Once they disappeared from view, Laura turned back, her expression darkening like a storm brewing on the horizon. Without warning, she reached out and gripped Dexter’s arm tightly, her nails digging into his sleeve. Without a word, she started him outside.

Outside the mansion, the cool evening air did little to calm the raging storm between Laura and Dexter. The tension crackled between them as Laura gripped Dexter’s arm tightly, dragging him further away from the house. Dexter’s face was a mask of disbelief, his breaths shallow as he tried to process what had just transpired inside.

“You,” Laura hissed, her voice sharp and venomous, cutting through the silence like a blade. Her eyes burned with an intensity that made Dexter flinch.

“Me?” Dexter snapped back, his voice rising with frustration as he yanked his arm free from her grasp. “How could you, Laura? How could you let him into the house after everything we’ve done, everything we agreed on?”

“Enough!” Laura's voice rang out like a whip cracking in the night.

She stepped closer, her imposing figure now inches from him, her expression livid. Before Dexter could react, her hand lashed out, slapping him hard across the face. The sound echoed through the quiet yard, and Dexter stumbled back, clutching his cheek, a shocked gasp escaping his lips.

“How dare you!” Laura yelled, her chest rising and falling with the force of her anger. “Do you have any idea what you’ve done? You nearly cost me my son’s life with your reckless stupidity!”

Dexter’s hand dropped from his reddened cheek as he stared at her, his lips trembling.

“I did what I thought was best,” he defended, his voice shaking with emotion. “I thought it would get rid of Carter once and for all so Jeremy could come back to us. You promised me, Laura. You said Jeremy was mine!”

“Promised you?” Laura’s eyes flared with renewed fury. “I trusted you, Dexter! And what did you do with that trust? You endangered my son! Jeremy was the one who got bitten, not Carter! And if it weren’t for Carter, Jeremy would be dead right now! Carter risked his life to save him—something you clearly didn’t think about when you set this whole thing in motion.”

Dexter’s voice cracked as he retorted, “But it’s his fault Jeremy got bitten in the first place! If Carter weren’t in the picture…”

“This isn’t about Carter!” Laura interrupted, her voice trembling with restrained fury. “This is about you. You took it upon yourself to play God, and now you have the audacity to blame Carter for your failures? My son could’ve died, Dexter! Do you understand that?”

Dexter’s breaths came in short, sharp bursts as he stared at her, tears brimming in his eyes. His voice broke as he whispered, “So that’s it, then? You’re choosing Carter over me? After everything I’ve done for this family?”

Laura’s lips tightened into a thin line, and she exhaled slowly, the fire in her eyes dimming slightly.

“I’m choosing my son,” she said firmly. “Jeremy loves Carter, and no matter how much I despise that boy, everything I’ve done to separate them has only pushed Jeremy further away. I can’t lose my son, Dexter. Not over this. Not over you.”

Dexter’s shoulders sagged, and his tears began to fall freely.

“You’re giving up,” he choked out, his voice filled with disbelief. “You’re giving up control. That’s not you, Laura. You’ve always been the one who makes things happen, who keeps everyone in line. Why now? Why him?”

Laura stepped closer, her voice low and filled with quiet menace.

“"Because I’d rather lose the battle than lose my son,” she said, her words cutting through Dexter like a knife. She straightened, her cold, calculating mask slipping back into place. “But don’t think for a second that I’ve forgotten what Carter’s capable of. And I certainly haven’t forgiven him. I’m tolerating this for Jeremy’s sake, but mark my words, Dexter—if you so much as breathe the wrong way near Carter, you’ll answer to me. Do you understand?”

Dexter’s face crumpled under the weight of her words, his heartbreak etched into every line of his expression. He opened his mouth to speak, but no words came. With a final look of defeat, he turned and walked away, his steps heavy with anguish.

Laura stood rooted to the spot, her chest heaving as she watched him go. Her hands trembled slightly as she ran them through her hair, trying to steady herself. She closed her eyes, and for a moment, Jeremy’s smiling face flashed in her mind, followed by the nervous but determined expression Carter wore as he led Jeremy upstairs. Her heart twisted painfully, but she pushed the emotion aside.

When she opened her eyes again, her expression was cold and unyielding. She whispered under her breath, her voice laced with venom,

“You may have won today, Carter, but this isn’t over. Not by a long shot.”

With that, she turned on her heel and walked back toward the house, her resolve hardening with every step.

***

Carter gently fluffed the pillow behind Jeremy’s back, tucking him in with the care of someone handling the most precious thing in the world. He pulled the covers up to Jeremy’s chest, smoothing them as he smiled. Jeremy tried to sit up, but Carter quickly placed a hand on his shoulder, gently coaxing him to relax.

“You’re not going anywhere,” Carter teased, his voice soft. But when he turned to leave, Jeremy’s hand shot out, wrapping around his wrist.

“Where are you going?” Jeremy asked, his tone filled with a quiet urgency. His eyes locked on Carter’s with such intensity it made Carter’s heart skip.

Carter chuckled, leaning down slightly.

“I need to check on my aunt, make sure she’s home safe. And besides...” He hesitated. “I was planning to leave after that. You need rest.”

Jeremy tugged him closer, his lips curving into a playful pout.

“Stay,” he murmured, his voice dropping to a whisper that sent a shiver down Carter’s spine. “I want you to stay the entire night. I’m dying to hold you, kiss you, and cuddle with you.” He paused, giving Carter the most pitiful look he could muster. “Besides, who’s going to bathe me in the morning and help me dress? I’m too weak for that.”

Carter’s cheeks flushed a deep pink as he stuttered, “Y-you can ask Jeff to help you! I’m sure he’d…”

“Jeff?” Jeremy interrupted, laughing as he tilted his head. “Are you shy, Carter? You’re my fiancé, for heaven’s sake. You should get used to seeing me naked.”

Carter’s mouth dropped open, his face growing even redder. “You’re so naughty!” he exclaimed, laughing as he covered his face with his hands.

Jeremy grinned, his laughter deep and rich as he leaned closer.

“I can’t help it,” he said with a wink. “I’m free with you. And I can’t wait to make you my husband so I can kiss you, cuddle with you, and make love to you every single night without restraint.”

Carter froze, his heart pounding in his chest as those words sank in. His head spun with happiness, a warmth spreading through his entire being. He bit his lip, trying to suppress the bashful smile that tugged at his mouth, but he couldn’t stop the feeling of overwhelming joy.

While Carter was lost in his daze, Jeremy took the opportunity to grab his waist, pulling him down onto the bed with a gentle tug. Carter gasped, his eyes wide as he landed beside Jeremy, but his shock quickly melted into a fit of laughter.

“Jeremy!” Carter scolded, but the twinkle in his eyes betrayed his words.

Jeremy chuckled, his hand resting on Carter’s cheek as he gazed at him with an intensity that made the world around them fade away.

“You have no idea how much I love you,” he whispered.

Carter’s laughter quieted, his gaze softening as he leaned closer.

“I love you too,” he whispered back.

What followed was a moment so tender, so perfect, it felt like time had stopped just for them. Their foreheads touched as they laughed softly, exchanging kisses that deepened with each second. Their lips danced together in a way that was both passionate and gentle, like two souls finding their home in each other. Jeremy’s hand tangled in Carter’s hair, and Carter’s fingers gripped Jeremy’s shirt as if anchoring himself to the moment.

But outside the warmth of their love, the world was far from still. Unbeknownst to them, danger loomed like a dark cloud, creeping closer with each passing moment. Someone—or something—was knocking at the door of their happiness, carrying with it a box filled with secrets and revelations that would shake the very foundation of their bond. Shadows gathered, waiting for the perfect moment to unravel everything they had built.

But for now, in the quiet sanctuary of Jeremy’s room, all that existed was the two of them, wrapped in each other’s arms, hearts beating as one.

To be continued…