Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 396

Clara had plans to meet Kaitlyn today, but Jackson had insisted on coming along, making it clear he wouldn't take no for an answer. Begrudgingly, she called him, and to her surprise, he was unusually enthusiastic, showing up outside her apartment building in less than thirty minutes.

With her car still in the shop, she had no option but to tap on his car window. "Hey, Jackson, mind giving me a lift?"

Maybe it was just her imagination, but Jackson seemed to have put some effort into looking sharp today. He gave a short, mocking laugh and gestured for her to hop in.

Choosing wisely, Clara slid into the backseat instead of the front. The car suddenly lurched forward, nearly sending her face into the back of the front seat.

Jackson smirked, "Try not to leave your makeup all over my car."

Clara felt her frustration boiling over. She could only dream of a day when Jackson would fall hopelessly in love, turning from the arrogant CEO into a lovesick puppy—that would be just perfect! The thought alone made her chuckle.

Jackson, who had slammed the brakes earlier just to mess with her, was puzzled by her laughter. "What's so funny?"

"Nothing," Clara quickly hid her smile.

They finally reached the café where she was supposed to meet Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn was already there by the window, looking surprised to see them together.

Jackson raised an eyebrow and sat across from Kaitlyn. "What a surprise."

He expected her to show some discomfort, but Kaitlyn only flashed a brief look of surprise before putting on a polite smile. "Hello, Jackson."

tone made Jackson's temper

a few pleasantries with Kaitlyn, and then started discussing her upcoming investment plans. With Jackson around, she couldn't

here, Clara. Want to come take a look? They seem

stood up, glancing at the silent Jackson. "Maybe you should head back,

way was Jackson leaving now, not when he

courteous. "Are you interested in coming too, Jackson?" Jackson tilted his chin. "Maybe there's someone at your

playful undertone, but Kaitlyn just smiled. "Well, that would be their good

soured, and he

headed outside, Clara felt the odd tension in the air-Kaitlyn seemed to

her car door. "Clara, ride

pulled her back, not gently at all.

at the

already in Kaitlyn's passenger seat, shutting the door with a swift motion. Clara glanced

her a reassuring smile. "I'll send you

about whatever was going on between those

demeanor instantly cooled. "Did you come here for me today,

cold chuckle. "Don't flatter yourself. Didn't you say

For Clara?

then she regained her composure. "So, Jackson's interested in

bad blood with Clara's; he'd rather be interested in a beggar. But to annoy Kaitlyn, he