He nodded in understanding, sensing her pain. “It’s incredible how tragedies can either break families apart or weld them together.”
Emily agreed. “Exactly. Claire and I became inseparable—we did everything together, expect science. That is one interest we most definitely don’t share. Actually, my sister is probably more like you than she is like me. She’s always off in some other country on a new adventure.”
Carter grinned. “Sounds exactly like my sister and me. We’re close, but completely different characters. Tell me about how you came to be a scientist.”
Emily smiled. “Well, my love for science started early, and after our father’s illness, it became somewhat of an obsession of mine. I was determined to understand what took him away from us, and more importantly, how I could prevent it from happening to other families.”
“That’s a noble pursuit,” Carter remarked.
Emily’s cheeks flushed slightly. “Thank you. I guess that’s what led me to stem cell research. The potential of stem cells in treating diseases, especially cancer, is vast. I’ve always believed in their power to heal and regenerate. I guess you could say that it became my life’s mission.”
Carter leaned forward, captivated. “And that’s how you ended up in the facility?”
She nodded. “Yes. When I applied to work for the company, I believed I was contributing to something groundbreaking, something that could change lives. Of course, I learned pretty quickly that my perception couldn’t have been further away from the truth. But of course, once I was in, the threats started, and I was trapped.”
Carter squeezed her hand reassuringly. “You followed your heart, Emily. No one could blame you for that, or for trying to protect your family by doing what they ask of you.”
“I wish I could see it that way,” she whispered.
The air between them grew thick with tension, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was charged—electric. The bond forming between them was undeniable.
“You know,” Carter began, breaking the spell, “despite our different paths, it’s clear we both have a strong sense of duty, and a commitment to our loved ones.”
Emily smiled, her eyes shining. “Yeah. I guess in a lot of ways, we’re more alike than one would think.”
Carter grinned, “Who would’ve thought? A CIA officer and a scientist, bonding over family and duty.”
“That sounds like the tagline of a terrible movie.”
They both chuckled, the weight of their individual pasts lightened by the shared moment. As the evening wore on and they shared more stories about their background, it was evident that the connection between them was growing stronger.
After dinner, Carter escorted Emily out to the parking lot where his father’s car waited.
“Wow, I’m stuffed!” Emily said. “That was amazing!”
“I’m surprised you haven’t been there before considering you’ve lived here for three months.”
Emily sighed. “I haven’t had much time for socializing and to be honest, on my days off, I haven’t felt up to doing anything. The weight of everything that’s been going on at work was really weighing on me.”
“I can understand that.”
“I’m glad we did this tonight though. It was a lovely first date.”
Carter laughed. “Actually, I was hoping you’d be up for another first.”
Emily’s brow furrowed. “Like what?”
“I’d really like you to meet my mom and dad.”
Emily gasped. “Don’t you think it’s a bit soon for that?”
Carter shook his head. “Not at all. If you were just someone I was dating, then yes, but you’re my mate. That’s for life. Shifters embrace that bond.” He hesitated. “But you’re not a shifter, and I know this might feel like too much. If you’re not ready, then we’ll wait. What do you say?”
Emily pulled her bottom lip into her mouth. “Okay,” she said. “If you think it’s a good idea.”
He beamed at her. “I do.”
“Then let’s do it.”
