Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 34

She settled into the seat, a mix of anticipation and nerves swirling around her as she realized she was traveling with Dylan. That familiar knot of fear she thought she'd buried long ago started to creep back up.

Dylan had some papers balanced on his knee. His voice was as calm and steady as ever. "Not only are there agricultural projects in South Ashford, but the government just announced a bid for a new tourism development zone."

A tourism development zone? Now, that was interesting. South Ashford might be strapped for cash, but its untouched natural beauty was a hidden treasure. The government had been dragging their feet about developing it for tourism, but now that they'd finally opened the door, you can bet there would be a rush of companies ready to pounce.

Plus, loads of spots between South Ashford and the Capital could be linked up. Imagine the possibilities if this whole region took off-it could be a real goldmine.

Clara fired up her brand-new laptop, eager to dig into the attractions around South Ashford. It quickly clicked why Dylan was personally on the scene. The government wasn't just opening the door but rolling out the red carpet with huge incentives.

This was fantastic news for Ferguson Corporation. They were already knee-deep in an agricultural project in South Ashford. Nail that, and they'd be in prime position for a partnership.

pen. "Mr. Dylan, I recall there's a famous ghost town here. What if we turned it into a massive haunted house? Young people are all about adventure these days, and

in the moment and willing to

a few more spots, "Plus, we're close to

pointed out a few more places, but Dylan's expression didn't change. Clara pulled back, second-guessing if her ideas were falling flat. The longer she sat alone with him,

in

be a long one-at least

eyes when her phone buzzed. The name Sonya popped up on the

and Sonya's voice, dripping with smugness, filled her ear. "Has Simon called you yet? Why hasn't

quickly blocked the number. Sonya was used to Clara's compliance, and this new attitude was sure

tried Simon next, but when he attempted to reach Clara,

bit off, like he couldn't quite focus. Darkness had already draped itself over the city when someone gave