Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 30

Clara had just settled into her new apartment, ready to relax, when her phone buzzed with a notification from the office group chat. She was curious and opened it, only to find her colleagues gossiping about her. Someone had snapped a picture of her from behind.

[Why is Clara staying at a hotel?]

[She probably has a date tonight. Doesn't she have a lot of guys around her?]

[She only got into the company because of Mr. Simon.]

Clara raised an eyebrow, realizing they had forgotten she was in the group. She quickly typed a response. [I have a lot of guys around me? News to me.]

The chat had been buzzing with speculation about how many times Clara might have cozied up to Simon to get into Ferguson Enterprises. It went dead silent at her unexpected message.

Clara directly tagged the person who had taken her picture. [Never stayed at a hotel in your life?]

been a work related chat, it might have disbanded from sheer embarrassment. Clara, unfazed, drifted off to sleep. She wasn't

odd atmosphere in the department. She pretended to be oblivious, focusing on her tasks. After work, Megan called her, suggesting some retail therapy. Clara had recently bought a new house. Although she ordered some items online, she still needed to see some furniture in person. The house was newly built, with fresh furnishings. She'd hired cleaners, and after picking up a few more items, she could

paid $2 million house, her smile wavered for a moment. "Clara, weren't you short on cash before? How did you

a lamp. "Do you have anything more vintage?"

"Right this way."

by luxury brands. Each item cost a small fortune. Clara purchased a lamp, left details of her address,

you the money? Or someone else?"

picked out a few more items and arranged for their delivery. She was excited about settling into her new home. "Neither. It's a long story. Want to check

smile. "Sure, I've never seen

afford an apartment. As Clara passed a designer

grabbed her wrist. "Clara! It's been ages. Get me this bag,

well-kept but with a calculating glint in