Silent Heartbeats - 4. Chapter 4: Carter begins his journey in Jeremy's company. What could go wrong?

Dexter felt a sharp pain in his heart as he watched Jeremy and Carter together. His fists clenched, and he took a deep breath, trying to steady his emotions.

“What is going on here?” he asked, his voice tight with barely contained jealousy.

Carter and Jeremy snapped back to reality, realizing the scene they were in. Carter quickly released his hold on Jeremy, feeling a shiver run down his spine. He glanced at Dexter and the woman standing next to him, who he didn't know, before hastily exiting the elevator and rushing past them without a word.

Jeremy, his face returning to its usual serious demeanor, stepped out of the elevator as well. Dexter, still looking agitated, repeated his question, “What was going on in there?”

Jeremy frowned slightly, his tone measured. “We got stuck in the elevator, Dexter. Carter had a panic attack. I was just trying to help him calm down.”

Dexter sighed, the tension in his posture not fully dissipating.

“The boy had his hands all over you,” he muttered, unable to hide his frustration. “Whether Carter had a panic attack or not is not my business. For all we know, it might have been a scheme to get closer to you,” he accused, his voice tinged with bitterness. “Since when do you care about what your employees are scared of?”

Jeremy’s patience was wearing thin.

“It's not a big deal,” he said, his tone strained.

Dexter chuckled sarcastically. “For someone who said he didn't want to get close to anyone other than Ethan...” Before he could finish, Jeremy snapped.

“Don't mention my husband's name!” Jeremy’s voice was sharp and filled with pain.

“I'm only saying what I’m seeing,” Dexter retorted. “Isn't it fishy that the boy tried to get close to one of your sons, and now he's trying to get close to you?”

“No one is going to get close to me other than Ethan. Never!” Jeremy's eyes blazed with a mix of anger and sorrow. “What happened in the elevator was nothing but a mistake that will never happen again.” Without another word, he rushed out, ignoring his mother’s calls.

Laura watched Jeremy leave, a mix of concern and confusion on her face. She turned to Dexter, who shrugged.

“That’s the closest I’ve ever seen Jeremy come to anyone,” he said, frustration evident in his voice.

Laura was surprised. “Who is this boy?” she asked, her brow furrowed.

“Someone who needs to be put in his place,” Dexter replied, his tone resolute.

Laura sighed, feeling the weight of the situation. “Dexter, we need to handle this carefully. Jeremy is fragile, and any misstep could push him further away.”

Dexter nodded, though his mind was still clouded with jealousy. “I understand. But I won’t let anyone hurt him. Not again.”

Meanwhile, Jeremy stormed into his private office, slamming the door behind him. He leaned against it, breathing heavily, trying to calm the storm of emotions raging inside him. Memories of Ethan flooded his mind, mingling with the image of Carter’s terrified face in the elevator. He sank into his chair, burying his face in his hands.

***

Carter found himself in his small work area, trying to steady his trembling hands. The confrontation with Jeremy and Dexter had shaken him, but he knew he couldn’t let it affect his work. He had a lot to prove, and the weight of the responsibility was pressing down on him.

He took a deep breath, opened the file with the client's details, and began sketching. His mind raced, filled with anxiety and the memory of the elevator incident. But beneath that, a determination to succeed, to show that he was worth the chance Jeremy had given him, burned fiercely.

As Carter worked, he felt a presence and when he raised his head, he found Dexter staring at him with a serious look on his face. Carter got up and smiled slightly, asking respectfully, "Can I help you with something?"

Dexter raised an eyebrow. “What’s your mission in this company?”

Carter looked confused. “I don’t understand. What do you mean?”

Dexter chuckled. “Saving Jeremy's son, getting employed here, and now trying to get close to him. I know what desperate boys are up to.”

To say Carter was surprised would be an understatement. He stared at Dexter like he'd grown another head.

“Whatever you saw in the elevator wasn’t what it seemed. Nothing happened with Jeremy and…”

“Of course, nothing happened,” Dexter cut him off. “There’s no way Jeremy would even think of touching someone like you when he has...” Dexter paused and struck a pose, radiating confidence and sex appeal, “all this. I appreciate you saving his son, but consider this a warning. Don’t even think about seducing my fiancé.”

Carter’s eyes widened. “I’m not trying to seduce anyone. I’m just here to do my job.”

Dexter leaned closer, his voice a low growl. “Good. Keep it that way. Jeremy is mine, and I won’t tolerate anyone trying to come between us.”

Carter swallowed hard, nodding. “I understand. I have no intention of causing any trouble.”

Dexter straightened, his expression softening slightly. “See that you don’t.”

With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Carter feeling even more unsettled than before.

Carter sat back down, his mind racing. The confrontation with Dexter had added another layer of pressure, but he refused to let it break him. He took a deep breath, refocused on his sketches, and reminded himself why he was there—to prove himself and build a career. Nothing else mattered.

Carter continued with his sketches without any distractions, although he couldn't help but feel he was working in a hostile environment. He shook it off and continued until he made a couple of sketches that he thought looked good. After what felt like hours, he finally managed to finish. Once again, he found himself knocking on Jeremy's office. It didn't take long before he heard a voice telling him to go in. He took a deep breath and entered, finding himself in a more nervous environment.

Jeremy was seated comfortably in his chair with his hands on his face, while Dexter stood behind him, giving him a small massage. As soon as Carter entered, he could see the displeasure on Dexter's face. He hesitated before greeting Jeremy, who raised his face and looked at him.

Carter swallowed hard before saying, “I’ve made a couple of sketches.”

Jeremy stretched out his hand, and Carter, though shaking, gave him the sketches. As Jeremy looked at them, he couldn't deny that they were very good. The sketches were beautiful and impressive. He looked up at Carter and said, “These are really good.”

Carter smiled brightly, but his happiness was short-lived as Jeremy continued, “But sketching is only the beginning of the job. You need to get the exact measurements of the couple and start working on the real design as soon as possible. The wedding is only a few days away.”

Carter felt a lump form in his throat. “I understand.”

Jeremy leaned back in his chair, his eyes fixed on Carter. “You need to meet with the couple early tomorrow morning to take their measurements,” he instructed. “As soon as you have them, start working on the designs immediately.”

Carter nodded, although his uncertainty was clear. “I’ll get right on it.”

Jeremy's gaze hardened. “Remember, these clients are very important. We can’t afford any mistakes.”

“I understand,” Carter replied, swallowing hard. “I’ll do my best.”

“You’ll email them the designs once they're ready,” Jeremy continued. “They'll choose which ones they want. Make sure everything is perfect.”

Carter nodded again, feeling the weight of the responsibility. “I will.”

With a final nod, Jeremy dismissed him. “You can go now.”

Carter left the office, his mind racing with thoughts of the next day’s tasks. He knew he had to make a good impression and ensure everything went smoothly. He went back to his desk and started packing and arranging his things. He finished arranging his desk, stretching his tired muscles, and let out a big yawn. He was startled when a familiar voice greeted him warmly. Turning around, he saw Jeff standing there with his usual charming smile.

“Jeff!” Carter exclaimed, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten as he returned the greeting with a bright smile.

Jeff, looking effortlessly handsome in his pair of jeans and a black shirt tucked in, sat on the edge of Carter's desk.

“How are you finding the work so far?” he asked.

Carter sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I'm getting used to it, but so much happened on the first day. I just want to rest.”

Jeff raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. “What do you mean? What happened?”

Carter chuckled, though it was a bit weary. “Well, aside from Mr. big boss scaring me half to death, his fiancé paid me a visit.”

“Fiancé?” Jeff looked genuinely confused. “Which fiancé are you talking about?”

Carter tilted his head, equally puzzled by Jeff's reaction.

“You know, Dexter. He was in the office with Mr. boss, giving him a massage. He made it pretty clear he didn't want me getting close to Jeremy or his son.”

Jeff's confusion deepened, and he let out a short laugh. “Dexter? Jeremy’s fiancé? That’s news to me.”

Carter blinked in surprise. “Wait, they're not engaged?” Carter's mouth dropped open in shock. “I was so sure Dexter was Jeremy's fiancé because of the way he talked to me.”

Jeff chuckled softly. “Dexter likes to think he's more important than he is. He's more of a friend and business partner. Jeremy's still very much in love with his husband. May his soul rest in peace.”

Carter's mouth trembled before he gasped. “Jeremy's a widower? I had no idea.”

Jeff sighed, a somber expression crossing his face.

“It's not something we like to talk about. It brings nothing but sadness. Jeremy loved his husband deeply, and even though it's been years, his love for him is still strong. It's really inspiring, in a way."

Carter fell silent, absorbing this new information. He wondered if this was the reason why he had never seen Jeremy smile. The weight of the revelation made him feel even more determined to prove himself worthy of the job. Lost in thought, he didn't notice Jeff snapping his fingers in front of his face until he spoke again.

“Hey, I was asking if it's okay if I drop you home since I'm heading out too,” Jeff said with a kind smile.

Carter snapped back to reality and nodded. “Yeah, that would be great. Thank you.”

Jeff gave him a reassuring pat on the back. “No problem. Let's get you home so you can rest up for tomorrow.”

The two left the office talking and laughing as they got to know each other even more.

***

The next morning, Carter stood outside the opulent premises, his nerves gnawing at him as usual. He was dressed simply but neatly in a t-shirt, black skinny jeans, and sneakers, with his hair tied back in a ponytail. He had made sure to start early, not wanting to risk angering his boss. Taking a deep breath, he whispered to himself,

“Just believe in yourself. You’re going to have a good day.”

With a determined smile, he entered the beautiful building.

It didn't take long before a stunning woman greeted him, her professional demeanor reassuring.

“Mr. Carter, we've been expecting you. This way, please.”

She led him to a stylish office where the client, a tall, handsome man, was engrossed in a business call. The man gestured for Carter to sit on a plush couch while he finished his conversation. Carter complied, nervously scanning the room, which was adorned with exquisite paintings that captivated his attention.

“They're beautiful, aren't they?” The man's voice startled Carter out of his reverie.

He quickly stood up, nodding hesitantly. “Yes, they are.”

The man smiled warmly. “I'm aware you're here to take our measurements, but my fiancée is stuck in traffic. You can start with me.”

Carter nodded, pulling out his tools and notebook. The man shrugged off his jacket, tossing it onto the couch, revealing a well-toned physique beneath his shirt. Carter approached him, focusing on his task. He started with the shoulder measurements, carefully extending the tape measure across the man’s back.

“Could you lift your arms a bit, please?” Carter asked politely.

“Of course,” the man responded, complying with a smile that seemed a tad too warm. Carter noted the measurement and moved on, diligently recording every detail.

As Carter measured the man’s chest, he felt a hand brush against his own. He dismissed it as an accident and continued his work. But then, as he moved the tape measure around the man’s waist, he felt the hand again, this time lingering on his arm.

Carter's heart pounded. He tried to stay professional, pretending not to notice. “Please hold still,” he instructed, hoping to redirect the man's attention.

The man didn’t seem to take the hint. As Carter measured his inseam, the man's hand rested on Carter's shoulder, slowly sliding down his back. Carter froze, feeling the inappropriate touch.

“Is everything alright?” the man asked, his voice smooth and seemingly innocent.

Carter swallowed hard, his professional facade beginning to crack. “Yes, sir. Just need to get these measurements accurate.”

“Good,” the man murmured, his hand moving to Carter’s waist, brushing against his hip. “Accuracy is important.”

Carter’s mind raced, searching for a way to address the situation without causing a scene. He finished the measurement quickly and stepped back, trying to put some distance between them.

“I’ll just wait for your fiancée now,” he said, his voice trembling slightly.

The man's eyes lingered on Carter, a predatory glint in them. “Relax, we have some time. How about a drink while we wait?”

Carter straightened up, his heart pounding as he faced the man.

“I’m here on business only, and I’d prefer to keep it that way,” he said firmly. “I’ve finished taking your measurements. I’ll wait for your fiancée.”

He gathered his tools, intending to leave, but before he could take a step, the man’s hand gripped his arm, pulling him back forcefully.

“How much?” the man asked rudely, his eyes gleaming with a predatory light. “How much to take some stress off me? I’ve had a long day.”

Carter was beyond shocked. His heart raced, and a frown creased his face as he yanked his arm free and put distance between them.

“You should be ashamed of yourself,” Carter said, his voice trembling with a mix of anger and fear. “You’re practically a married man. I thought you were decent, but I see I misjudged you. I pity your fiancée.”

The man’s predatory look didn’t waver. As Carter tried to pass him again, he was suddenly gripped and forcefully thrown onto the couch. Before he could fully comprehend what was happening, the man was on top of him, his weight pressing down heavily.

Fear gripped Carter. His breaths came in short, panicked gasps as he pleaded, “Please, let me go.”

The man’s grip tightened, his face close to Carter’s, breath hot against his skin. “Very soon, your cries will turn to moans,” he hissed, his voice dripping with menace.

Carter’s mind raced, desperate to find a way out. He struggled, but the man’s hold was powerful. The situation grew more dire as the man’s hands roamed over his body, pinning him down. Carter’s fear turned into a fierce determination to protect himself.

In a moment of desperate clarity, Carter shifted his body, drawing his knee up with all the strength he could muster. His knee connected squarely with the man’s groin. The impact was immediate and intense.

The man writhed on the floor, his face contorted in agony. Carter took the opportunity to grab his tools and rush toward the door, his heart racing. As he reached for the handle, he paused, his breath coming in ragged gasps.

He knew he needed to report this, to ensure no one else would suffer the same fate. But for now, he needed to get out of there, to find safety and regain his composure. With a final glance at the man still writhing on the floor, Carter yanked the door open and fled, his mind racing with what had just transpired.

***

Carter reached Jeremy's office, his heart pounding. He paused outside the door, taking several deep breaths to steady himself. He knocked, but there was no answer. He knocked again, this time hearing an angry voice from within telling him to come inside.

As he entered the office, he found Jeremy pacing back and forth, speaking heatedly into the phone. The tension in the room was palpable, and Carter felt a wave of unease wash over him. Jeremy's face was a mask of frustration, his movements sharp and agitated. Dexter was seated at the edge of the table, his stern gaze fixed on Carter.

Jeremy abruptly ended his call, slamming the phone down on the desk with a force that made Carter flinch. He turned his fiery gaze toward Carter and marched over, his presence overwhelming.

“Do you think I'm running a brothel here?” Jeremy snapped, his voice cutting through the air like a knife. The words hit Carter like a physical blow, leaving him momentarily stunned.

Carter's eyes widened in shock, his mind racing to understand what Jeremy was accusing him of. “Sir, I—" he began, but Jeremy cut him off with a harsh gesture.

“Save it!” Jeremy's voice was laced with anger and disappointment. “I trusted you with an important task, and this is how you repay me? With indecent behavior?”

Carter stood there, his mind racing as he tried to find the right words. “Sir, I don't know what you've been told, but I swear—" he began, his voice shaking.

Jeremy cut him off, his voice cold and sharp. “I don't want to hear any excuses,” he snapped. “I own a company known for its professionalism, not for cheap behavior like this. Do you have any idea what you've done?”

Carter's eyes widened in surprise and hurt. He felt a lump form in his throat as he struggled to explain. "Sir, it wasn't what you think," he said, his voice breaking. “I went to meet the client, and he... he tried to force himself on me. I managed to get away and came straight here to tell you.”

Jeremy's expression remained hard. Before he could respond, Dexter let out a derisive laugh from his perch on the edge of the table.

“Look at yourself, really,” Dexter taunted, his voice dripping with disdain. “Do you really expect us to believe that a high-profile client would try to force himself on someone as cheap and inferior as you? It's not possible.”

Carter's face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and anger. “I'm telling the truth,” he insisted, his voice rising with desperation. “I didn't do anything wrong.”

Jeremy's expression remained stony, his eyes hard.

“Do you think I'm a fool?” he snapped. “You're just trying to cover up your own misconduct. I've had enough of your lies.”

Carter's heart sank, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. He felt a tear slip down his cheek, but he quickly wiped it away.

“Please, sir, believe me,” he pleaded. “I would never do something like that. I just want to do my job and prove myself.”

Jeremy's voice rose to a shout, the veins in his neck standing out.

“Never in my life has something like this happened in my company, and I won't let it start now! You're nothing but trouble, and I won't have you ruining everything I've built!”

Carter stood there, his tears starting to fall as his heart broke. The words cut deep, each one like a knife.

“Maybe it's just your character,” Jeremy continued, his tone dripping with disdain. “Find rich men and seduce them for money. Is that what you do?”

The pain and humiliation were too much to bear. Suddenly, without thinking, Carter's hand shot out, and he smacked Jeremy across the face. The sound echoed through the room, the force of the slap snapping Jeremy's neck back.

Dexter's eyes widened in shock, his mouth falling open as he watched the scene unfold.

Carter's own eyes widened in horror as he realized what he had done. Tears rolled down his face as he covered his mouth with his hand, trembling with fear.

“Oh my God,” he whispered, his voice barely audible. “I'm so sorry... I didn't mean to...”

Jeremy slowly turned his head back to face Carter, his cheek already reddening from the impact. The room fell into a tense silence, the air thick with tension.

Dexter finally found his voice. “What the hell do you think you're doing?” he shouted, stepping forward as if to intervene.

Carter took a step back, his legs shaking. “I... I don't know what came over me,” he stammered, his voice choked with sobs. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry..."

Jeremy's eyes blazed with fury as he stared at Carter, his fists clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white. He raised a trembling finger at Carter, the veins in his neck still throbbing from his outburst. "You listen to me," he growled, his voice low and filled with menace.

“You are fired. And I swear, if I see you anywhere near me or this company again, I will do something you will regret.”

Carter's tears continued to fall as he nodded, his body shaking with fear and regret. The words cut through him like a knife, each one a reminder of the mistake he had made. He felt like the ground was slipping away beneath him, the reality of his actions sinking in.

“Get out,” Jeremy repeated, his voice rising. “Now!”

Carter didn't wait for another warning. He turned and bolted from the office, his heart pounding in his chest. The humiliation and fear were overwhelming, and he could barely see through the tears streaming down his face. He stumbled through the hallway, barely registering the curious glances from other employees.

Dexter watched Carter flee, a satisfied smirk playing on his lips. He turned to Jeremy, who was still fuming.

“You handled that well,” he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Jeremy ignored him, his mind racing. The slap had jolted something deep within him, a mix of rage and a painful reminder of Ethan. He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself, but the anger and confusion still churned inside him.

As Carter finally reached the exit of the building, he paused for a moment, looking back at the place where he had hoped to start anew. The reality of his situation hit him like a ton of bricks, and he knew that he had just lost the opportunity of a lifetime. He took a deep breath, trying to compose himself, and stepped out into the cold, harsh reality of the city.

To be continue…