Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 384

Clara made her way upstairs, relieved to see the room was already spotless. She turned to Justin with a nod. "Alright, I'm heading out. If anything comes up, just reach out to Cole or me."

Justin opened his mouth as if to say something about calling her directly but thought better of it.

Back in her car, Clara massaged her temples. She'd been running non-stop lately without a break, and her headache was only getting worse. But she couldn't skip seeing Ryan.

When she got to where Ryan was staying, the people outside perked up at her arrival. "Ms. Clara, thank goodness you're here."

She glanced toward the room. "What's up with him?"

The caretaker looked awkward, scratching his head. "About an hour ago, he was begging to see you, and then he just went silent, crying in his room. He wouldn't even eat when we brought him food."

Clara sighed deeply. She'd picked this place for Ryan because it was peaceful and nice.

She knocked on the door and walked in, finding him curled up on the bed. Ryan's messy hair stuck out from under the blanket.

of frustration as she pulled the covers off him, revealing his tear- swollen eyes.

at her voice, curling up

the bed's edge. "You wanted me here, right? So,

gripped the blanket, his voice rough. "It's too late. I know what

again. "Ryan, the company is demanding, and I'm busy. If you're just trying to

she stood to go, Ryan scrambled off

voice was filled with

paused, turning back to help him off the floor. His eyes were so swollen he could

I've been reading tons of books. Next time you come for me, I'll help with the company. I won't

did I say I was replacing you? Did someone tell you

the caretakers were spreading lies,

his head, lowering his

couldn't stand his pitiful look and slapped him across the

and swollen, and he just touched his