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

as she kissed him deeply. His lips, cool at first, warmed quickly against hers. His hand found her

few more quick kisses. "I'll bring you some treats tomorrow, and we can have dinner together on New Year's Eve,

a soft

car, she glanced back at the dark townhouse, unease settling in her chest. It was already past one in the morning, and she had a long drive

security guard at the gate seemed surprised to see her. "Ms.

morning to catch Dylan, but was surprised the guard knew her. "I'm delivering flowers to Mr. Dylan. Got caught

in. The boss has been

care about these roses that much? She hopped onto the estate's golf cart, clutching the roses

to a stop as someone stumbled into its path. Clara steadied herself, heart racing. The driver was

figure. Before she could react, a woman