Recap: Mr Carte's Life/Death Decision!
807 Words
He glanced at the sleeping child nestled in the backseat of the van, his expression softening for just a moment. It doesn’t matter anymore, Jake thought. They can take whatever they want, but they won’t take him. He’s all that’s left now.
Jake turned his gaze back to the road, his hands tightening around the steering wheel. “It’s just you and me now, Tim,” he whispered, his voice filled with a new determination. “And I swear, I’ll protect you with everything I’ve got. Whatever comes next, we face it together.”
The van rumbled down the darkened streets, carrying with it the last hopes of a broken family—and the promise of vengeance waiting in the shadows.
“Young master, we’ve arrived at Mr. Carter’s place,” Jake said quietly, glancing back at the sleeping baby. “Let’s hope he doesn’t turn us away. Especially after five hours on the road.”
Stepping out of the car, he gently lifted Tim into his arms and approached the door of the traditional dojo-style house, which stood out with its black and white paint and dark grey roof. Despite the modern touches, it was clear at a glance that Mr. Carter lived a life of comfort and luxury, but the air of discipline was palpable.
Jake stood at the doorstep, his exhaustion apparent, but his grip on baby Tim was steady. The door creaked open, revealing Mr. Carter—stern, seasoned, and as imposing as ever. His sharp eyes flickered with a trace of compassion when he noticed the infant in Jake’s arms.
“What brings you here, Jake?” Mr. Carter’s voice was rough, his suspicion evident.
Jake’s voice trembled as he replied, “Mr. Carter... I know I’m asking a lot, but Tim needs you. His mother is in grave danger... and so is he.” Jake explained the dire situation involving the Evert family, outlining Timberly’s sacrifices.
Mr. Carter crossed his arms, his face hard as stone. “This isn’t a game, Jake. You know what you’re asking me. What if they come looking for him here?”
Jake’s eyes were pleading. “I’ve thought about that. But there’s no other choice. Timberly did everything she could to ensure they won’t search for him. She and Dr. Jin faked the baby’s death... but they’ll come after me, which is why I won’t stay.”
Mr. Carter’s face softened slightly, though scepticism still lingered. “And you expect me to risk everything for a child I barely know?”
Tears welled in Jake’s eyes. “He’s not just a child, Mr. Carter. He’s her legacy. The Everts protected you, your dojo, your family. I can’t let her sacrifice be in vain. Every breath this child takes is a promise to her, and I need your help to honor it.”
Mr. Carter sighed, frustration creeping into his tone. “You’re asking me to shelter a baby from enemies you can’t even name. If they find him, what are you willing to lose?”
“Everything,” Jake replied breathlessly. “I’ll give everything I have. But I can’t do it alone. You have the skills, the experience... that’s why I came to you. You’ve always talked about wanting an apprentice to pass your knowledge on to.”
A heavy silence followed as Mr. Carter studied the tiny baby in Jake’s arms. He never imagined himself as a protector of children, but he owed a great debt to the Evert family. The innocence on Tim’s face tugged at something within him.
“I never thought I’d be protecting a child,” Mr. Carter muttered, shaking his head. “This isn’t my calling. But... I owe old Mr. Evert a great deal. And maybe this child could become someone worthy of my teachings.”
Jake’s voice cracked, his desperation bleeding through. “This child is innocent in all of this. Please, if you truly cared about Timberly and her family... help me protect what’s left of it.”
After a long pause, Mr. Carter sighed deeply, looking at Tim with a mixture of reluctance and resolve. “All right, Jake. I’ll take him in. But understand this—if I do, I won’t let my guard down for a second. You’d better be prepared to fight if it comes to that.”
Jake nodded, his resolve firm. “I’ll do whatever it takes. Thank you, Mr. Carter. I swear you won’t regret this.”
Mr. Carter stepped aside, opening the door wider. “Then welcome to my home, Tim. Let’s hope we can keep the promises we’ve made.”
As Jake stepped inside, a wave of relief and responsibility washed over him. Behind him, Mr. Carter closed the door with a quiet but determined finality, sealing the start of a new chapter for them all.
- Writer
