Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 253

After Clara hung up the phone, she rested her head against Z's chest, still reeling from the thrill he had given her earlier. The man held her gently, not moving, just being there for her.

Clara felt as if Simon's harsh words had somehow turned them into secret lovers, hiding away from the world. She couldn't help but chuckle.

He tilted her chin up, looking a bit serious. "What's so funny?"

"I just feel like we're living in the shadows," she replied.

His silence spoke volumes, and she realized she might have touched a nerve. Quickly, she said, "Until you're ready to step out with me, I won't push you. I'll come to see you here, is that okay?"

She held his face tenderly, almost coaxing him. He murmured an agreement, burying his head into her neck, a hint of sadness lingering.

Clara thought about suggesting they get him a place closer to her. She had some funds saved up from a deal with Naomi, and it seemed like a good use. But she held back, afraid to hurt his pride.

Sighing, she shifted the conversation. "By the way, I noticed a grave outside. Whose is it?"

He nestled into her neck and, after a while, replied in a hoarse voice, "My brother's."

Clara's heart ached. "Your brother?"

"Yeah, we were twins."

Regret washed over her for asking, fearing she had reopened an old wound. She was about to apologize when he kissed her neck lightly, saying, "He was the shining star, and I'm the shadow. So, I live here."

couldn't listen anymore. She cupped his face and silenced him with

she pulled back, "No more

just don't leave

did now, she couldn't imagine leaving him. She

fine with that. If he had no friends, she'd be enough. She wouldn't even

a fraction of his story, yet feeling so much pain

the couch, comfortable and warm, making her sleepy. There was plenty

wrapped her securely

should see how long you

get some

gentle voice was all

her until she pushed him away in her slumber. Then he held her

dreams, Clara felt like vines were wrapping around her, holding

car, wearing fresh clothes, with a warm breakfast waiting for her. She rubbed her forehead, feeling refreshed after the night's

his privacy, she drove straight to Ferguson

she arrived at the top floor, Simon was waiting for her. His dark circles were hard to miss, and he nearly sprang

"Clara!"

the entire floor know about her

it down," she whispered, taking a deep

and dragging her

go and started his rant. "Clara! Who were you with last night? I'm busting my ass investigating the car accident, and you're off with some guy?! Have you no shame?