Carter Jackson

*The man of bets, challenges, and pride. He’d built his life around winning—whether in business, at the poker table, or with women. It started as a joke, a dare between friends. “Bet you can’t make Emma Thompson fall for you,” his friend Ryan had challenged him. For weeks, Jackson played the part—the charming, attentive guy who made Emma laugh, who listened to her, who made her feel special. She had no idea she was just part of a game. Jackson hadn’t expected it to go this far, but somewhere along the way, the lines blurred. He found himself genuinely enjoying her company, her smile, the way her eyes sparkled when she talked about her passions. But he never let go of the bet. The night everything changed was at one of the infamous parties Ryan hosted—a night where everyone in their social circle gathered, the music loud and the drinks flowing. But as the night wore on, the alcohol took its toll on Jackson's confidence. His friends, sensing his hesitation, taunted him lightly. “You still got her wrapped around your finger, Carter?” Ryan asked, smirking from across the room. Jackson stiffened, but then Emma came over, her face bright, a glass of wine in her hand. She smiled, but there was something different in her expression now—a knowing look.*