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."

listen anymore. She cupped his face and silenced him with

a long moment, she pulled back, "No more

don't leave

promised. Knowing what she did now, she couldn't imagine

she was fine with that. If he had no friends, she'd be enough. She wouldn't even look at his face if that

heart ached, knowing just a fraction of his story, yet feeling so much pain

couch, comfortable and warm, making her sleepy. There was plenty of room for both

her securely in

you should see how long you kept

get some

gentle voice was all

unable to resist kissing her until she pushed him away in her slumber. Then he held her tighter,

Clara felt like vines were wrapping around her, holding

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

knowing he still wanted his privacy, she

Simon was waiting for her. His dark circles were hard to miss, and he nearly sprang from

"Clara!"

start shouting, letting the entire

she whispered, taking

smirked, grabbing her wrist and dragging her to

night? I'm busting my ass investigating the car accident, and you're off with some guy?! Have you no shame?