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. He was in disbelief. "You

her pride, had

Unless you're cooking for me for

spun on his heel and

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

where Quinn was gently applying

eyes brimmed with gratitude, and when he looked

in Clara's chest came in waves, but she was done begging for their affection. She pulled her suitcase toward the door, her voice steady. "I don't

end up with a child like you? Fine, fine, you

met with the loud slam of the door

her hand shaking around her cup of water. "I should never

sparkled with amusement, though her voice was all concern. "Mom, don't worry. She talks tough but comes back

she hit me this time. No

was the ten grand Megan had sent her. First on

offered her a place, but Clara 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

further out meant

her options, she noticed the