?<strong>Chapter 999:</strong>


    She had agreed to it. Nobody had pushed her into anything. The problem was, her ability to handle things had taken a nosedivetely. Just a bit of alcohol, and everything had spiraled out of her hands.


    Choosing her words carefully, she said, “We haven’t discussed marriage yet.”


    Instantly, the mood in the room chilled as Kody’s and Reece’s faces fell.


    “Hard to believe I once convinced myself he was someone worth trusting. I saw him as family, and this is the reckless nonsense he throws at me?” Reece brought his fist down on the armrest with a sharp thud. The cushion sagged beneath the blow and stayed that way, refusing to spring back right away—that’s how forceful the hit had been.


    Kody turned towards her, his tone grave as he said, “Is he the one avoiding marriage?”


    Carrie hadn’t imagined they would stand behind her with such unwavering support.


    Despite Reece’s longer history with Daxton, he readily sided against him based on her vague implications.


    Guilt washed over her. It was her situation to confess, yet Daxton was bearing the brunt of false usations for being irresponsible.


    She hastened to correct the misunderstanding, saying, “No, no, that’s not it. Daxton isn’t against marriage. In fact, he recently mentioned wanting to discuss the engagement formally with you.”


    This eased the tension slightly, though the men remained visibly upset.


    Kody looked into her eyes and said, “So, it’s you then? Are you hesitant about marriage? Is he not treating you well?”


    Carrie dismissed the notion with a shake of her head. “No, Kody. In fact, it’s Daxton who’s been dealt a bad hand today. He’s been nothing short of wonderful—always there, protecting and caring for me. He’s evene to my rescue a couple of times. Really, apart from you and Gracie, he treats me better than anyone else in the world.”


    As Kody’s anger dissipated, his expression softened into one of concern.


    “Carrie, is there a past trauma that’s troubling you?”


    Reece interjected swiftly, “Don’t let your past experiences with Kristopher taint your view of all men. I’ve known Daxton for a long time. He’s a stand-up guy, would make a fine husband, and a fantastic father.”


    Yet Carrie couldn’t resist pointing out the inconsistency in his support. “Oh, really? Earlier, you seemed ready to throw him under the bus. You questioned his character in no uncertain terms.”


    Caught off guard, Reece stumbled over his response, then offered an awkward smile. “Okay, okay, I might have overreacted. Can you me me? I was worried about you. My bond with Daxton is strong, but youe first. If anyone hurts you, even by ident, I can’t just let it slide.” His smile faded as he finished, emphasizing the sincerity of his words.


    A warmth spread through Carrie. “I appreciate that, Reece. And Daxton has truly been supportive. He’smitted to looking after both me and the baby. But the thought of marriage again terrifies me. What frightens me more is the idea that if we ever hit a rough patch, I might feel obligated to stay because of the baby.”


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