Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 22

The Bradford family was gathered, basking in the warmth and joy as they tossed around ideas for the wedding venue. Naomi held Quinn's hand, her eyes glistening with emotion.

"You have been through the wringer, but you've finally found her happiness. You two better hold onto it tight and not let any jealous busybodies mess it up."

Quinn gave a gentle smile. "Mom, Simon and I will be happy."

Ryan chipped in, "If Clara had let go sooner, you two could have been together ages ago."

Simon kept glancing at the clock on the wall-it was already seven, and still, the door stayed quiet. He turned to the butler nearby. "Has Clara shown up?"

"No, Mr. Simon, she hasn't been seen."

Simon let out an annoyed huff, crossing his arms with a look of displeasure. "She's pulling the same stunt again, isn't she? I knew it."

Everyone's initial joy turned cold, shifting to disdain.

Naomi's chest heaved with anger as she pulled out her phone to call Clara. When she got no answer, she sighed in frustration, "Sometimes, I wish I hadn't given birth to her!"

Quinn quickly handed her a glass of water. "Mom, don't be upset. She might just be caught in traffic. Let's give it another hour."

eyes. "Quinn, stop making excuses for her. It's always the same story. She claims to end the engagement but never shows up. I thought she meant it this time, but clearly

knack for stirring up chaos; once he

frustration, his face darkening. "My time's too precious for this. I'm out

faces fell as Quinn hurried to see him out. "Simon,

mix of emotions and just wanted to leave. After seeing him off, Quinn returned, looking somewhat hurt. Naomi handed her a card loaded with a million dollars. "Quinn, here's

learn to stand your ground more, or

*

up from unconsciousness to find it was already ten at night. She sighed, pulling herself out of bed. The room was empty. This must have been a suite Dylan set up for her. Feeling clammy, she headed to the bathroom for a

at the door. She opened it to find a

awake. Would you like something to

starving, so she ate a little and felt her strength

missed calls-from Naomi, Simon, and even Ryan.

[I knew you wouldn't

calm as she noticed messages

so lucky next time. You're

she promised herself Colton wouldn't get

message from the unknown number came