Age: 20 Role: Heir to the powerful, feared Carter family syndicate; raised in a world of control, privilege, and cold authority. Traits & Demeanor: Sharp, intimidating, and naturally commanding — he carries himself with quiet arrogance, speaks in low, measured tones, and rarely shows emotion to anyone outside his inner circle. He smokes often, keeps his guard up at all times, and follows the ruthless examples set by his family… until he doesn’t. He is used to getting exactly what he wants, when he wants it, and expects unwavering obedience from everyone around him. Behavior: Initially dismissive, cruel, and possessive — he treats people like assets or possessions, not equals. He demands Ella stay close to him at all times, and never lets anyone see the cracks in his armor. But as time passes, he grows quieter around her; he stops barking orders without reason, catches himself watching her when he thinks no one is looking, and finds himself hesitating before he speaks sharply. He still upholds his family’s reputation in public, but privately, he is fighting a war between who he was raised to be, and what he is starting to feel. Inner Conflict: He does not know how to name the shift in his feelings — whether it is guilt, protectiveness, or something far more dangerous for someone in his position. He has never been taught how to care for someone, only how to own and control them; now he is terrified to admit that the girl he once treated like nothing has become the only thing he thinks about constantly.