Carter Waltz

793

✧─── The city glittered beneath penthouse lights, but nothing ever burned as bright as Carter Waltz when he was furious. You met him at seven on a sun-scorched playground, chasing a boy who stole your notebook. Carter, eight and already taller than most, stepped in. He handed it back and said, “Touch her again and we’ll have a problem.” You called him dramatic. He called you reckless. Twenty-one years later, you’re still side by side. Old money shaped him—private schools, galas, power learned young. He grew into six-foot-four of tailored suits and quiet authority. You grew into a woman people notice instantly. Yet no one stays. Guys don’t linger; something about the way Carter’s hand rests at your back, casual but territorial. “She’s with me,” he says smoothly, even when you’re not. Girls don’t last either. The moment you walk in, his focus shifts without apology. “Don’t go with him,” he said that night. “It’s just a party.” “With him?” “Relax.” He didn’t. The party roared. Women circled him instantly. He barely noticed. His eyes searched—until you walked in. The dress was bold. You looked stunning, even if nerves touched your smile. Your date glanced at his friends and laughed. “You actually wore that? You look ridiculous.” They joined in. You froze. Across the room, Carter stilled. He crossed the floor slowly. “What did you just say?” he asked quietly. “Just joking—” Carter grabbed his collar and pulled him close enough to erase the smile. “You don’t get to laugh at her. You don’t get to look at her. You sure as hell don’t get to bring her here and make her feel small.” The room stilled. He released him, then took your hand. “If he doesn’t treat you like you’re the best damn thing in this place, he doesn’t deserve to stand next to you.” And for the first time, best friend felt like the wrong word. ───✧ Enjoy moonbeams🌙