Her eyes fluttered open, the bright sunlight streaming in through her window. Carrie groaned as she sat up, her body aching from the previous night's battle. She took in her surroundings, her bedroom walls adorned with shelves full of books and her see-through curtains hanging above her window. The light was blinding, but she couldn't help but smile as she realized she had made it through another night.
As she pulled the duvet off of her, she yawned and stretched her arms above her head. It was then that she noticed she was still in her Dark Angel attire. She couldn't help but smirk as she remembered the events of the previous night. She had saved a woman from being raped and had ended up in a rooftop battle with Black Sky - Charlie. She also remembered being carried by Daredevil after passing out, remembering his warmth and protectiveness over her.
Suddenly, she heard Amy's voice. "Oh, great, you're alive!"
Carrie turned her head to see her friend standing in the doorway, a look of relief on her face. Her head was pounding, but she managed to chuckle weakly at Amy's remark. "I was scared I might go to another funeral," Amy continued.
Carrie couldn't help but chuckle weakly at her friend's remark. "I'm not that easy to take down," she replied, her voice hoarse from the night's events. "But I could use some coffee."
As she got up from her bed, Amy asked, "But in all seriousness, how are you feeling?"
She knew that Amy had been worried sick about her. "I'm fine, Amy," she said, her voice still a little hoarse. "Just a little sore."
Amy nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Well, you scared me, you know," she said, walking over to the bed. "I thought I was going to lose my best friend."
Carrie reached out and took Amy's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I'm not going anywhere," she said, her voice firm. "I promise."
Amy smiled, her eyes shining with tears. "I know," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I just...I don't know what I'd do without you."
Carrie pulled her friend into a tight hug, feeling the warmth of her body against hers. "You'll never have to find out," she whispered, holding Amy close.
As they pulled away from each other, Carrie couldn't help but feel grateful for her friend's unwavering support. She knew that she wouldn't have made it through the night without Amy by her side. And as she looked out the window, she knew that there were more battles to come.
As the morning sun gently filtered through the curtains, Carrie gracefully changed out of her Dark Angel outfit, revealing her true self. With a sigh of relief, she slipped into a cozy grey hoodie and comfortable sweatpants, embracing the warmth and comfort they offered. It felt like a complete transformation, as if she had shed her alter ego and entered a world of familiarity and tranquility.
As she walked towards the kitchen, the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, captivating her senses. The clinking of plates and the soft hum of conversation welcomed her as she entered the room. Her friends, who had been patiently waiting, looked up with smiles on their faces, their eyes filled with anticipation.
Taking a seat at the table, Carrie couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over her. The morning routine had become a cherished tradition, a moment of respite from the chaos of their lives. It was a time for them to come together, share stories and laughter, and simply be themselves.
As the breakfast spread was laid out before them, a symphony of flavors and colors, Carrie couldn't help but feel grateful for the bonds they had formed. Each bite was savored, each sip of coffee a moment of pure bliss.
"Hey, how did I get here?" Carrie asked, rubbing her sore muscles. "I mean, how did I get home?"
"Daredevil took you home," Amy replied casually, taking a sip of her coffee.
Carrie's eyes widened in surprise. "You saw him?!"
Amy nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "In his red suit and all."
Carrie couldn't believe it. She had always admired Daredevil from afar, but to think that he had personally taken her home was beyond anything she could have imagined.
"Did he tell you what happened?" Carrie asked, eager to know more about the events of the previous night.
Amy shook her head. "Just that you got beat pretty bad. He didn't tell me much, but he made it clear that you were in danger."
As they sat down for breakfast, Carrie's mind couldn't help but wander. How did Daredevil know where she lived? It was a question that gnawed at her, filling her with a mix of curiosity and unease.
Amy paused, her gaze meeting Carrie's. There was a flicker of intrigue in her eyes as she spoke. "I'm not sure," she admitted, her voice filled with mystery. "But it seems like Daredevil knows more than he lets on. Perhaps he has his ways of finding out."
Suddenly, a memory flashed in Carrie's mind. She remembered the moment when Daredevil had carried her, his voice filled with reassurance. "Don't worry, Carrie," he had said, his words echoing in her ears.
Carrie gasped, her heart pounding in her chest. "He knows my name," she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of awe and disbelief.
Amy nodded, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, Dark Angel," she said, her voice filled with excitement, looking through her phone. "The news has been buzzing about you."
Carrie's heart raced, her mind wandering back to the night Daredevil had saved her. She could still feel the warmth of his arms around her, the sound of his voice soothing her fears. Suddenly, a memory flooded her mind, and she gasped.
"When Daredevil was carrying me," she whispered, her eyes wide with shock.
Amy looked up from her phone. "What about it?"
"He said my name," Carrie replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Your name?" Amy repeated, confused. "What do you mean?"
"He called me Carrie," she explained, still in disbelief. "He knows my real name."
Amy's eyes widened in surprise. "How could he know that?"
"I don't know," Carrie admitted, shaking her head. "I never told him."
Amy frowned. "That's creepy. First, you have Charlie, and now Daredevil knows your name?"
Carrie couldn't deny the unease that settled in her stomach at the thought. But at the same time, she couldn't help but feel a strange sense of comfort knowing that Daredevil knew who she really was. It was as if he had seen through her mask and into her soul.
"I don't think he's a stalker like Charlie," she said finally, her voice firm. "He saved my life, Amy. And he knew my name because he cared enough to find out."
Amy rolled her eyes. "You and your superhero fantasies. Just be careful, okay? You never know who's watching."
Carrie nodded, knowing that her friend was right. But deep down, she couldn't shake the feeling that Daredevil was different. He was more than just a hero in a mask. He was someone who saw her for who she truly was, and that was a rare and precious thing.
Carrie, having shed her cozy hoodie and sweatpants, slipped into a stylish ensemble of double denim, ready to embark on a solitary stroll. Amy couldn't help but feel a pang of worry, fully aware of the immense trauma Carrie had endured in recent times. However, Carrie, with a reassuring smile, gently brushed away Amy's concerns, assuring her that she would be perfectly alright.
Stepping out of her apartment, Carrie was greeted by the refreshing caress of the cool summer breeze and the sun cast a warm golden glow over the quiet neighborhood. As Carrie walked down the familiar streets, she couldn't help but feel a sense of liberation. The weight of her past struggles seemed to lift off her shoulders with each step she took.
The sound of her footsteps echoed through the empty streets, creating a rhythmic melody that matched the beat of her determined heart. Carrie's mind wandered, reflecting on the challenges she had faced and the strength she had found within herself to overcome them. She had come a long way from the timid and fragile girl she once was.
Passing by the local park, Carrie paused to admire the vibrant flowers in full bloom. Their colors seemed to mirror her newfound confidence and resilience. She couldn't help but smile, feeling a sense of gratitude for the beauty that surrounded her.
As she continued her solitary stroll, Carrie's thoughts turned to the future. She had dreams and aspirations that she was determined to pursue. No longer bound by fear or self-doubt, she was ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead.
The streets gradually became busier as Carrie approached the city center. People hurriedly walked past her, lost in their own worlds. But Carrie remained focused, her gaze fixed on the path ahead. She had learned to navigate through the chaos and noise, finding solace in her own company.
Matt strolled through the gritty streets of Hell's Kitchen, his heightened senses allowing him to navigate effortlessly despite his blindness. The sounds of bustling traffic and distant conversations filled his ears, creating a symphony of urban life. As he continued on his way, a familiar heartbeat caught his attention, causing him to pause.
Turning his head in the direction of the rhythmic thumping, Matt's lips curled into a small smile: Carrie's heartbeat. Despite her troubled past, there was something about her that intrigued him. Perhaps it was her resilience or the untapped potential he sensed within her.
Approaching her cautiously, Matt extended his hand in greeting. "Good morning, Carrie," he said, his voice warm and inviting. "It's been a while since we last saw each other."
Carrie turned towards the sound of his voice, her eyes widening in recognition. "Matt? Oh, it's you," she replied, her voice tinged with relief and took his hand. "I didn't expect to see you here."
Matt smiled, his lips curving upwards in a comforting gesture. "I have a knack for being in the right place at the right time," he said, his tone laced with a hint of amusement. "Or perhaps it's just blind luck."
Carrie chuckled softly, the sound like a delicate melody in the midst of chaos. "Either way, I'm glad you're here," she admitted, her voice filled with sincerity. "I've been feeling lost lately, and seeing a familiar face brings some comfort."
Matt took a step closer, his senses attuned to the subtle changes in her heartbeat. "I understand, Carrie. Sometimes, it helps to have someone who can see beyond what's on the surface," he said, his words carrying a deeper meaning. "How are you feeling today? You're okay since the funeral?"
Carrie nodded, a somber expression crossing her features. "Yes, that was a difficult day, but I'm managing," she murmured, her voice tinged with sadness. "And you were there for me, Matt. You saw me when no one else did."
A tender smile graced Matt's lips as he reached out, his hand trembling slightly before finding its way to Carrie's. His touch was gentle, a silent reassurance that he was there for her, even in the darkest of times.
As they stood, Matt turned to Carrie and said, "I know this is a difficult time for you, but I couldn't help but notice how capable and strong you are. I have an opening for a secretary at my law firm, and I think you would be perfect for the job."
Carrie looked at him in surprise. "But I don't have any experience as a secretary," she said.
"That's okay," Matt replied. "Karen can teach you everything you need to know. And besides, I have a feeling you'll be a quick learner."
Carrie smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Matt. I really appreciate this."
As they exchanged informations about the job, their goodbyes and walked their own ways, Matt couldn't help but feel a connection to Carrie. He had always been drawn mysterious women with questionable pasts, and there was something about her that interests him.
An hour had passed, and Carrie finally made her way back to her cozy apartment. The events of the day were still swirling in her mind, and she couldn't quite fathom that it was all happening to her. As she closed the door behind her, she was greeted by the sight of Amy, who had abruptly turned her attention away from the blaring television.
"Hey," Amy called out, swiftly muting the sound. "How was your walk?"
Carrie's face lit up with a wide grin as she replied, "It was absolutely amazing, Amy. So relaxing, you wouldn't believe it."
Curiosity danced in Amy's eyes as she leaned in closer. "Well, spill the tea, girl. What happened out there?"
Carrie's excitement was palpable as she shared the incredible news. "You won't believe it! Matt, you know, the lawyer? He offered me a job at his law firm!"
Amy's jaw practically hit the floor as she processed the information. "No way! That's incredible, Carrie! When will you start?"
Carrie's response was accompanied by a radiant smile, exuding confidence and anticipation. "Monday," she declared, her voice brimming with excitement.
Amy's mind raced, calculating the limited time left. "That's three days away!" The realization hit her like a ton of bricks.
Carrie, sensing her friend's astonishment, gently suggested, "I should start preparing myself for this."
Amy nodded in agreement, still in shock at the news. "Of course, you should! This is such a huge step for you, Carrie. I'm so proud of you."
Carrie's excitement was contagious, and Amy couldn't help but feel happy for her friend. As they continued to talk, Carrie shared more details about the law firm and the type of work she would be doing. Amy listened intently, amazed at the opportunities that lay ahead for her friend.
As the conversation came to a close, Amy hugged Carrie tightly. "I'm so excited for you, Carrie. You're going to do amazing things."
Carrie hugged her back, feeling grateful for her friend's unwavering support.
Carrie and Amy were beyond excited as they embarked on their shopping adventure, determined to find the perfect ensemble for Carrie's new job as a secretary at Nelson & Murdock. The bustling streets of the city were alive with anticipation, mirroring the girls' own eagerness.
Their first stop was a trendy boutique, where racks on racks of clothes beckoned them. Carrie's eyes sparkled with delight as she spotted a black skater skirt, its flirty silhouette promising to accentuate her curves in all the right places. Without hesitation, she snatched it off the rack, feeling an instant connection to the garment.
Amy, always the supportive friend, encouraged Carrie to keep exploring. And so, they ventured deeper into the store, their laughter filling the air. It was then that Carrie's gaze fell upon a pink long-sleeved round neck plain stretch T-shirt with a white collar. The soft fabric seemed to whisper her name, and she knew it was meant to be hers.
With her heart set on the skirt and the shirt, Carrie's eyes wandered to her feet. She longed for a pair of shoes that would complete her ensemble, adding a touch of sophistication to her look. And there they were, nestled on a shelf, waiting for her. Black faux suede t-bar heeled shoes, elegant and timeless, just like Carrie herself.
As she slipped into the shoes, Carrie felt a surge of confidence coursing through her veins. She knew that with this outfit, she would conquer the world, one step at a time. With Amy by her side, they paid for their purchases and left the boutique, their hearts brimming with excitement for the adventures that awaited her at Nelson & Murdock.
~
Three days had passed and the rain poured relentlessly from the darkened sky, drenching the streets of Hell's Kitchen. Undeterred by the weather, Carrie trudged forward, her trusty umbrella shielding her from the downpour. Her handbag swung lightly from her left shoulder, a constant companion in her journey through the storm.
The sounds of bustling city life echoed around her, amplified by the rain. People chattered animatedly, their voices blending with the cacophony of car horns blaring in the distance. Carrie's green eyes scanned the busy streets, taking in the chaos that surrounded her. She had dressed for the occasion, donning an ensemble she had carefully chosen - a stylish outfit accompanied by thick black tights and a long, vibrant magenta coat.
As she continued along the rain-soaked pavement, her gaze suddenly fell upon a weathered sign that read "Nelson & Murdock: Attorneys at Law." The sight of it sent a shiver down her spine, a mix of anticipation and nervousness coursing through her veins. With a determined grip, she reached out and grasped the handle of the seemingly rusted gate, her dry lips instinctively moistening in anticipation. She pushed the gate open and stepped into the unknown.
It was a surprisingly tranquil atmosphere within the walls of the law office, devoid of the usual hustle and bustle that she had anticipated. Not too long ago, this place had been teeming with activity, its reputation preceding it. As she stood there, a nervous energy coursed through her veins, causing her stomach to churn with anticipation. The sound of footsteps echoing through the entranceway sent a shiver down her spine, prompting her to suppress her anxiety and bury it deep within.
Summoning her courage, Carrie called out, her voice breaking the silence. The footsteps, now louder, drew nearer, causing her heart to race in her chest.
"Carrie, hi," a familiar voice called out, cutting through the tension like a ray of sunshine breaking through stormy clouds. Karen, her eyes filled with warmth and concern, approached Carrie as she made her way into the room.
Carrie's entrance to Nelson & Murdock had been nothing short of nerve-wracking, but seeing Karen's friendly face amidst the chaos brought a sense of comfort and familiarity. As Karen reached Carrie, a gentle smile graced her lips, offering a silent reassurance that everything would be alright.
"Hey, Karen," Carrie replied, her voice filled with a mixture of relief and gratitude. "I'm... I'm glad to see you here."
Karen's blue eyes sparkled with genuine happiness as she replied, "I'm glad to see you too, Carrie. Trust me, you're in good hands here. Matt and Foggy are amazing, and they'll make sure you feel right at home."
Carrie nodded, her anxiety slowly dissipating as Karen's words washed over her.
Karen and Carrie entered the law office of Nelson and Murdock, their eyes immediately drawn to the sight of Matt and Foggy engrossed in their work. The air was charged with anticipation as the two women approached the dynamic duo.
Carrie's heart fluttered in her chest as she caught a glimpse of Matt. His chiseled jawline and a light shining on his red tinted glasses made her weak in the knees. She couldn't help but admire his dedication to justice, his unwavering determination evident in every move he made.
Karen, ever perceptive, noticed the blush creeping up Carrie's cheeks and couldn't help but smile. She knew all too well the effect Matt had on her friend.
"Hey, Matt! Foggy!" Karen called out, her voice filled with excitement. "Look who's here! It's Carrie, our newest addition to the team!"
Matt's head snapped up at the sound of Karen's voice, his heightened senses allowing him to pinpoint her exact location. A warm smile graced his lips as he turned towards the two women, his heart skipping a beat at the presence of Carrie, her shy demeanor only adding to her allure.
"Foggy, did you hear that?" Matt teased, nudging his partner playfully. "We've got a new recruit. Looks like we're expanding our little family."
Foggy, always the joker, couldn't resist joining in on the fun. "Well, well, well, Matty. Looks like we've got a young gun in the team," he quipped, winking at Carrie. "Better watch out, buddy. You might have some competition for your affections."
Carrie's cheeks flushed an even deeper shade of red, her eyes darting nervously between Matt and Foggy. She couldn't believe they were teasing her like this, but deep down, she couldn't deny the thrill it sent coursing through her veins.
Matt, ever the gentleman, stepped forward, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity. "Welcome to the team, Carrie. We're glad to have you here. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask."
Carrie's heart soared at Matt's kind words, her admiration for him growing with each passing second.
"Let me show you the office," Matt said.
Matt led Carrie into his office, his hand resting gently on the small of her back. She couldn't help but feel a shiver run down her spine at his touch. As they entered the room, she was hit with the scent of his cologne, a heady mix of sandalwood and musk that made her head spin.
Carrie tried to keep her composure, but it was difficult with Matt so close. She could feel the heat radiating off of him, and her heart was pounding in her chest. She had always been drawn to him, ever since they had met in law school. There was something about him that made her feel alive, like she was finally living instead of just existing.
Matt gestured to the small space around them, his voice smooth and confident. "Our firm is small, as you know," he said. "But we're hoping to relocate someday. For now, your desk will be in my office. I hope that's okay."
Carrie nodded, unable to speak. She was too busy trying to keep her thoughts in check. She knew that she shouldn't be feeling this way about her boss, but she couldn't help it. Matt was just too irresistible.
As they stood there, Carrie couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to be with him. To feel his lips on hers, his hands on her body. She knew that it was wrong, but she couldn't help the way she felt.
Matt turned to her, his eyes locking onto hers. "Is everything okay?" he asked, concern etched into his features.
Carrie nodded, trying to push her thoughts aside. "Yes, everything's fine," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Matt smiled, his hand still resting on her back. "Good," he said. "I'm glad you're here, Carrie. I think we're going to do great things together."
The sun began to set on Carrie's first day of work, she trudged wearily down the deserted street towards her home. Despite the relief of finally being able to rest, a sense of unease gnawed at her gut. She quickened her pace, hoping to make it home before anything untoward happened.
Suddenly, three shadowy figures emerged from the darkness, blocking her path. Carrie's heart leapt into her throat as she realized she was in trouble. The men leered at her, their eyes glinting with malice.
"Hey there, pretty lady," one of them sneered. "What's a girl like you doing out here all alone?"
Carrie's mind raced as she prepared to defend herself with her telekinetic powers. But before she could even raise a finger, one of the men grabbed her arm. In a split second, she reacted, lashing out with a powerful punch that connected with the man's face.
The other two men were not amused. They lunged at her, fists flying. Carrie fought back with all her might, but it was clear that she was outnumbered and outmatched.
Just when it seemed like all hope was lost, a figure appeared out of nowhere.
"Leave her alone," Matt growled, his voice low and menacing.
The men laughed, thinking that they could take down a blind man with ease. But they were sorely mistaken. Matt fought with a ferocity that surprised even Carrie, who had always harbored a secret crush on him. His movements were fluid and precise, his senses honed to a razor-sharp edge. In no time at all, the three attackers lay crumpled on the ground, defeated.
Carrie gazed at Matt in awe, her heart pounding with a mixture of fear and admiration. She knew that she owed him her life, and she vowed to never forget the bravery he had shown in coming to her rescue.
Blood spilled onto the pavement, staining it a dark, ominous red, as Matt unleashed a torrent of blows upon one of the men, his fists connecting with bone and flesh. The sickening sound of impact echoed through the night, mingling with the gasps and cries of the onlookers. The man, battered and broken, crumpled to the ground, his body a testament to the power and fury that Matt possessed.
The other two men, their faces etched with fear and realization, glanced at each other, their eyes filled with a mix of terror and defeat. They knew, deep down, that they were no match for the blind force that stood before them. With a shared understanding, they turned on their heels and fled into the darkness, their footsteps fading into the night.
Carrie, her eyes wide with shock and disbelief, stood frozen in place, her heart pounding in her chest. She had never witnessed such raw strength and determination from Matt before. Her voice trembled as she found the courage to speak, her words barely audible above the chaos that surrounded them.
"How...how did you do that?" she managed to ask, her voice laced with awe and wonder.
Matt, his face calm and composed, turned towards her, a gentle smile playing upon his lips. His sightless eyes seemed to hold a depth of wisdom and resilience that surpassed the limitations of his physical condition. His voice, steady and unwavering, carried a quiet confidence.
"I may be blind, but I am far from helpless," he replied, his words resonating with a quiet strength. "There are other senses, other instincts that guide me. I have learned to harness them, to trust in them."
Carrie's mind swirled with a mixture of emotions - admiration, astonishment, and a newfound respect for the man standing before her. Together, they began the journey back to Carrie's apartment, their footsteps echoing through the silent streets. The adrenaline from the fight still coursed through his veins, his hearts pounding in sync with Carrie's.
As they strolled towards her apartment, Carrie's attention was fixated solely on the sight of Matt's hands, stained with blood. The crimson droplets stood out starkly against his pale skin, a testament to the violence that had just unfolded. The adrenaline coursing through her veins heightened her senses, making every detail of the scene more vivid.
Carrie glanced at Matt, her eyes filled with a mix of awe and concern. "Matt, what happened back there? Why did these men want to...?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
Matt's face, partially obscured by the shadows of the dimly lit street, bore the marks of a fierce struggle. His brow was furrowed, his jaw clenched, revealing the strain he had endured. "Carrie, it's alright now. They're not gonna hurt you," he replied, his voice calm yet tinged with a hint of exhaustion.
Carrie's heart raced as she tried to process the gravity of the situation. She had always known Matt possessed extraordinary abilities, but witnessing him unleash his strength firsthand was both awe-inspiring and terrifying.
"But how did you... how did you know they were coming for me?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Matt's lips curled into a faint smile, a mixture of pride and determination. "Carrie, my senses are heightened. I can hear things, sense danger before it even arrives. I couldn't let anything happen to you," he explained, his voice filled with unwavering conviction.
As they continued their journey, Carrie couldn't help but steal glances at Matt's bloodied hands. They were a testament to his unwavering loyalty and his willingness to protect her at any cost. She felt a surge of gratitude and admiration for the man walking beside her, a man who possessed a strength she could only begin to comprehend.
Matt and Carrie walked in silence towards her apartment, the only sound being the tapping of Matt's blind stick on the pavement. Carrie couldn't shake the image of Matt's bloodied hands from her mind.
"Matt, are you okay?" Carrie finally asked, breaking the silence.
"I'm fine," Matt replied, his voice calm and collected. "Just a few scratches."
Carrie couldn't believe how composed Matt was after just beating up a man who had tried to attack her. "You saved my life," she said, her voice shaking with emotion.
Matt shrugged. "It's what I do."
Carrie couldn't help but feel grateful for Matt's presence. She had never felt so safe with anyone before. As they approached her apartment building, she turned to him. "Do you want to come up and get you cleaned up or something?"
Matt smiled. "I'd like that."
They arrived at the entrance of Carrie's apartment, their presence immediately catching the attention of those nearby. Amy's gaze fixated on the pair, her eyes widening in shock as they landed on Matt's bloodied hands. The unmistakable evidence of a fierce struggle was etched onto his skin, causing worry to etch itself onto Amy's features.
"What the hell happened?!" she asked, her voice trembling with concern.
Matt's injuries sent Amy's heart racing with worry. She couldn't help but wonder what had transpired to leave him in such a battered state.
Matt looked at Amy, his eyes filled with pain and exhaustion. He attempted to speak, but his voice came out hoarse and barely audible. Carrie stepped forward, wrapping her arm around him, providing support as they made their way inside the apartment.
"Let's get you cleaned up first," Carrie said, leading him towards the bathroom. "We'll explain everything once you're feeling better."
Amy followed closely behind, her mind racing with a whirlwind of questions. She observed as Carrie tended to Matt's wounds, gently wiping away the traces of blood from his hands and face. Her attention couldn't help but be drawn to the bruises adorning his arms and the cuts marring his forehead.
"Are you alright?" Carrie asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Matt weakly nodded, his eyes closed in pain. Carrie finished tending to his wounds, assisting him to his feet. Together, they made their way to the living room, where Amy anxiously took a seat beside them.
"Now, please, tell me what happened," Amy implored, her eyes locked onto Matt.
Taking a deep breath, Matt began to recount the harrowing events of the night. He had valiantly saved Carrie from a vicious attack by a group of men, unleashing a merciless fury upon them, leaving one with potentially severe injuries.
Carrie listened intently, her eyes filled with a mix of adoration and sorrow. Amy sat in stunned silence, struggling to comprehend the gravity of what she was hearing.
"We must contact the police," she declared, her voice trembling.
Matt shook his head, a weariness evident in his expression. "No, I don't want to involve the police. I just want to put this behind us and move forward."
Carrie placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "We cannot simply ignore this, Matt. Those men must be held accountable for their actions."
A deep sigh escaped Matt's weary lips, his head drooping in a gesture of resignation. His eyes, once filled with a spark of defiance, now reflected a weariness that seemed to weigh heavily upon his soul. "It doesn't matter," he murmured softly, his voice tinged with a hint of melancholy. "As long as you are safe, that's all that matters to me."
As the bittersweet moment of parting drew near, Carrie's heart felt burdened with a myriad of emotions. The weight of their shared experiences seemed to hang in the air, suffocating her with a mixture of sorrow and gratitude. With a fierce determination, she enveloped Matt in a tight embrace, her tears cascading down her flushed cheeks like a torrential downpour.
"I'm sorry that you have been dragged into this," she whispered, her voice choked with sorrow. "I did try to fight back."
Matt's face, once vibrant and full of life, now appeared pale and drawn, etched with the lines of worry and fatigue. Yet, amidst the weariness, a faint smile managed to grace his lips, a testament to his unwavering resilience.
"Do blame yourself, Carrie," he uttered softly, his words carrying a soothing warmth. "I'm just grateful that you are safe."
In that moment, their unspoken bond transcended the confines of words. It was a silent understanding, a shared strength that fortified their spirits.
Matt swung open the door, his heart pounding with a mix of relief and concern. He couldn't help but feel a surge of protectiveness towards Carrie, his loyal secretary. As she bid him goodnight with a warm smile, he returned the gesture before watching the door close behind her.
Standing there, alone in the dimly lit hallway, Matt couldn't shake off the weight of the recent events. The memory of the men who had attempted to harm Carrie still lingered in his mind, a constant reminder of the dangers that lurked in the shadows. But for now, he could breathe a sigh of relief knowing that she was safe.
Just as he was about to turn away, a voice pierced through the silence, causing him to freeze in his tracks. Jessica had caught him off guard with her unexpected comment.
"Wow, someone's back from the dead," she remarked, her tone laced with a hint of amusement.
Matt turned towards her, his heightened senses allowing him to pinpoint her exact location. Jessica, with her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, always seemed to have a knack for appearing at the most opportune moments.
"Evening, Miss Jones," Matt greeted her politely, his voice calm and composed.
Jessica approached him, curiosity evident in her eyes. "What are you doing here, Murdock?" she inquired, her tone laced with intrigue.
"Visiting a friend," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of mystery.
Jessica's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You know Carrie?" she asked, her interest piqued.
Matt nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "She's my secretary. Just started today," he revealed, his voice filled with pride.
The mention of Carrie seemed to trigger something in Jessica's mind, as she leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a hushed tone. "So, does she know?" she asked, her eyes searching his face for answers.
Matt's heart skipped a beat, knowing exactly what Jessica was referring to. He paused for a moment, contemplating his response. "No," he finally replied, his voice filled with a mix of regret and determination.
As the words left his lips, a sense of both relief and sadness washed over him. The burden of his double life was a heavy one to bear, and he knew that keeping Carrie in the dark was for her own safety. But the thought of confiding in someone, of sharing the weight of his secret, lingered in the back of his mind.
With a knowing nod, Jessica took a small step back, her eyes filled with concern. "Is Carrie alright?" she asked, her voice laced with worry.
Matt, her longtime friend, flashed her a reassuring smile. "Yeah, she's more than alright," he replied, his voice filled with genuine happiness. "In fact, she's doing great. How are you holding up, Miss Jones?"
Jessica let out a weary sigh, her shoulders slumping slightly. "You don't have to be so formal, Murdock," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of exhaustion.
A mischievous glint danced in Matt's eyes as he playfully retorted, "And yet, you insist on addressing me by my last name. We're friends, aren't we?"
A genuine smile tugged at the corners of Jessica's lips, a warmth spreading through her chest. "Yeah, I remember. It's been a while since we've had a proper conversation."
Matt's expression softened, his gaze filled with understanding. "Yeah," he interrupted gently, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "Maybe it's best if we don't dwell on the past."
As they stood there, their unspoken history hanging in the air, Jessica couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort in Matt's presence; she nodded in agreement. "Need I say more," she said, her eyes meeting Matt's. "I'm actually going to see Carrie. You know, just... for a chat."
"I thought you're not a people's person," Matt responded, surprised.
Jessica shrugged. "There are expectations," she said, a hint of mischief in her voice.
After saying their goodbyes, Matt turned and walked away, leaving Jessica to knock on Carrie's door. As soon as she knocked, the door opened and Carrie greeted her with a smile.
"Hi, Jessica," Carrie said.
"Hey, Carrie," Jessica replied as she walked in. "Hey, Amy."
"Hi," Amy spoke. "What brings you here?"
"I finally cracked the code on that message we found at Sew True," Jessica explained.
Carrie's expression turned grim. "Oh, yeah."
"At first, I thought it was trying to spell out a word," Jessica continued. "But then I noticed outlines of other letters."
"And?" Amy asked eagerly. "What did it say?"
Jessica took a deep breath before revealing the message. "Pigs' blood for a pig."
Memories of the blood dump at the Prom flooded her mind, and she couldn't help but feel a sinking sensation in her body. The stench of the pigs' blood had been overwhelming, and now she understood the true meaning behind it.
Carrie took a deep breath, trying to compose herself before speaking. She knew she had to reveal the connection she had made. "So that was what it was," she finally whispered, her voice trembling. Jessica and Amy leaned in, their curiosity piqued. "The smell," Carrie clarified, her eyes filled with a mix of fear and understanding.
Jessica and Amy exchanged puzzled looks, unable to comprehend Carrie's revelation. "What do you mean, Carrie?" Amy asked, her voice filled with concern.
Carrie took a moment to gather her thoughts, her mind racing with the implications of the message. "Pigs' blood for a pig," she finally explained, her voice shaking. "It's a threat. Charlie wants revenge."
Jessica's eyes widened as she realized the gravity of Carrie's words. "Revenge? But why would Charlie want to harm you?"
Carrie's gaze dropped to the floor, her voice barely above a whisper. "Isn't it obvious? She's tormenting me, making my life a living hell all over again. She wants me to suffer like I did back in Chamberlain."
Jessica and Amy exchanged worried glances, realizing the danger that Carrie was now facing. They knew they had to protect her, to ensure that she wouldn't be harmed again.
"Charlie is a 'she'?" Amy's voice broke the heavy silence, her confusion evident. "How did you know that?"
Carrie hesitated, her mind grappling with the truth she had discovered. She didn't want to delve into the darkness that surrounded Charlie, the secrets that had been unveiled.
Instead, she focused on the package that had arrived, a chilling reminder of the twisted mind behind it all. "The box of feminine products. Why would a boy send me it?"
The room fell into a hushed silence, the implications of Carrie's words sinking in.