Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 21

Clara had been lounging with a face mask on for about half an hour when she heard him say, "It's getting late." It was his polite way of suggesting she should leave.

Clara stayed put on the couch, her heart still thumping. Here, at least, she felt a semblance of safety. Sure, Dylan was intimidating, but it beat facing the unknown dangers outside.

Colton was swayed by Quinn's manipulations and believed every word she said. He'd probably use even nastier tricks next time. Clara set the ice pack from her hand down on the coffee table and asked, "Mind if I crash here tonight? I'll just take the couch; I promise I won't be a bother."

Dylan was already heading to the master bedroom, and Clara, taking the hint, quickly moved behind his wheelchair to give him a push. Even though she knew he didn't need her help, she was asking for a favor and had to show the right attitude.

As they got to the bedroom, she added, "I don't snore, really. I can rough it on the couch for one night."

"Do as you like."

Relieved by his agreement, her face broke into a smile. "Thanks again, Mr. Dylan."

Without looking at her, Dylan braced himself on the bed and slowly got to his feet. Clara suddenly recalled what Aiden had mentioned about Dylan's physical therapy. Was she messing up his routine tonight? She hurried over to steady his hand.

crisp smell of pine trees in winter. He

there, Clara thought maybe Megan had a point. Even with his leg issues, there'd still be

She

asked, "Mr. Dylan, would you like

"No thank you."

softly closed the door. Exhaustion hit her hard. After the medication and soaking in cold water for an hour, she was wiped out and quickly drifted off to

and someone gently pried her mouth open, feeding her something bitter. She grimaced, about to spit it out, but a firm hand kept her jaw

and checked the IV

won't be up for a bit," the private doctor,

hospital and wasn't eating well, leaving her in a fragile state. The cold bath had pushed her over the

throat felt parched like it was on fire. She tried to sit up, almost passing out from the effort. Dylan handed her

something important. Glancing at the clock, she scrambled to get up. "I'm sorry, but I've got to go. Tonight, Simon's going to the Bradford family to call

didn't show up, Simon's over-imaginative

as he set his cup down. "I thought maybe this