Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 459

Clara grabbed her companion's hand once more, guiding her through the estate's now-darkened paths. Earlier, the place was alive with lights, but now shadows had taken over. Thankfully, the way out was still fresh in her mind.

As they neared the estate's entrance, a thought nagged at Clara. Why hadn't the enigmatic owner shown up? But there was no time to dwell on it; she had to get Z to the car.

The path was dim, with only a distant porch light swaying gently in the night breeze. Clara placed the bouquet of roses in the back seat, stepping back to close the door, nearly stumbling as she did.

Nearby, a fresh tire track in the snow hinted at recent visitors. She steadied herself and opened the driver's door. Z sat silently in the passenger seat, his head bowed, deep in thought.

Clara drove him back to his cozy townhouse. The soft glow from a lamp by the sofa was enough to reveal just his hand. She quietly tended to his wounds, blowing gently on his palm.

"I can't stay tonight. You need to get some rest, okay?" she said softly.

guilt. She still had to deliver the roses

his face as she kissed him deeply. His lips, cool at first, warmed quickly against hers. His hand found her waist, pulling her closer,

she didn't leave now, she might never go. She pulled back, giving him a few more quick kisses. "I'll bring you some treats tomorrow, and we can have dinner together

said again, a

In her car, she glanced back at the dark townhouse, unease settling in her chest. It was already past one

guard at the gate seemed surprised to see her. "Ms. Clara, you're

thought she'd wait until morning to catch Dylan, but was surprised the

can head in. The boss has been waiting for you

waiting? Did he really care about these roses that much? She hopped onto the estate's golf cart, clutching the roses as

stop as someone stumbled into its path. Clara steadied herself, heart racing. The driver was alarmed. "What's

check on the figure. Before she could react, a woman lunged