Chapter 184. Anguish 

Silence reigns as Carter stares at her, his expression conveying a mix of relief and disbelief. Before Lara can utter another word, he envelops her in a tight hug and spins her around.

"Oh my God, Lara, I thought I lost you," he exclaims, trying to catch his breath after the dizzying whirl. Lara chuckles sarcastically.

"Oh really?" she giggles. "What held you back? I mean, for all you know, I could have been made dog food in that house."

The subtle smile on Carter's lips vanishes instantly, replaced by a look of concern and anger.

"What do you mean? Were you caught? Did she hurt you?" His voice trembles with rage as he contemplates the possibility of Lara being harmed by their enemy. The thought of her suffering ignites a fiery rage within him.

"That bitch!" He seethes, his anger simmering just beneath the surface. He berates himself for ever allowing her to go on her own. It was a reckless decision