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

artists are here, Clara. Want to

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

now, not when he was so close

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

emphasized "fancy" with a playful undertone, but Kaitlyn just smiled. "Well, that would be their

mood soured, and he fell

Clara felt the odd tension in the

door. "Clara, ride

Jackson pulled her back, not gently at all. He tossed his luxury car keys into her hands.

stared at the keys, momentarily

seat, shutting the door with a swift

smile. "I'll send

her mind racing about whatever was going on

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

next to her, Jackson let out a cold chuckle. "Don't flatter yourself.

For Clara?

eyes widened, then she regained her

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