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."

made Jackson's

with Kaitlyn, and then started discussing her upcoming investment plans. With Jackson around,

Clara. Want to come take a

stood up, glancing at the silent Jackson.

Jackson leaving now, not when he was so close

to him, still courteous. "Are you interested in coming too, Jackson?"

but Kaitlyn just smiled. "Well, that

mood soured, and he fell

felt the odd tension in

opened her car door. "Clara, ride with

not gently at all. He tossed his luxury car keys into her hands.

the keys, momentarily

the door with a

giving her a reassuring smile. "I'll send you

racing about whatever was going on

Kaitlyn's demeanor instantly cooled. "Did you come here for me

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

For Clara?

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 let her believe