Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 8

Clara felt a sharp stab of anger in her chest as she hurriedly tried to gather her documents. But she froze when she opened the last drawer.

There lay a stack of certificates, including the prestigious CPA and CFA qualifications. These were the golden tickets to Wall Street's ruthless arena, yet they were tucked away in the most unassuming corner.

Wasn't she supposed to be just a girl chasing after Simon, without any real skills?

She quickly glanced at them, not in the mood to stick around any longer. She threw a few clothes into a bag, ready to bolt.

Just then, Ryan strolled in. "Clara, are you running away again? Stop with the drama; I'm starving here."

He swiftly snatched the suitcase from her grip. "If you don't apologize to Mom, Dad, and Quinn, no one will talk to you. How long are you planning to stay away this time? Didn't you pull this stunt yesterday and come crawling back by morning? It's embarrassing, and you're the reason this family is in chaos."

As he spoke, he tossed the suitcase aside, and her carefully packed clothes spilled out.

"Do you know why everyone adores Quinn? She's kind, graceful, and a star at work. You're nowhere near her level, which is why Mom and Dad won't give you any shares. When will you start reflecting on yourself?"

Clara looked at her clothes scattered on the floor, and she'd had enough. She raised her hand and slapped him.

"Slap!"

his cheek, a mark forming rapidly.

swallowed her pride, had actually

hurt for a moment. "You hit me? Really?! I'm done talking to you, Clara! Unless you're cooking for me for a year. If you're leaving,

on his heel and

heard Naomi's piercing voice. "My goodness, Clara, you hit your brother! You... you're impossible! Go kneel outside until we're satisfied,

toward the sofa, where Quinn was gently applying some balm to Ryan's cheek, her expression

brimmed with gratitude, and when he looked at

was done begging for their affection. She pulled her suitcase toward the door, her voice steady. "I don't want to

chest heaved with anger. "You... you, how did I end up with a child like you? Fine, fine, you haven't worked a day since graduation. Let's see

loud slam of

sank onto the sofa, her hand shaking around her

sparkled with amusement, though her voice was all concern. "Mom, don't worry. She

hit me this

her suitcase in tow, Clara reached the front gate. All she had was the ten

felt bad about imposing for too long. She checked online for nearby rentals, aiming for something close to Ferguson Corporation. But the company was smack in the city center, and rent started at nearly twenty grand a month. Her funds wouldn't even cover

out meant

she noticed