Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 473

The next morning, Ryan was up before dawn, his mind restless and his eyes heavy with dark circles-clear signs of a sleepless night. The elderly holistic healer noticed immediately. "Ryan, you..."

Ryan forced a smile, trying to hold back tears, and quickly rubbed his cheeks. "Grandpa, I need to head out now. Can't stay for breakfast. Take care, okay? Goodbye." He hurried off, as if something urgent was waiting for him.

The old healer watched him go, unable to muster the courage to ask if Ryan had seen the small note.

*

In the city.

The day after Ryan left, Clara got a panicked call from Sarah. Her voice was shaky and full of tears. "Clara, Ryan's missing! I tried calling, but his phone's dead. He said he was going to his hometown to get you some herbal remedies. You've got to make sure he's safe. If my baby comes into this world without a father, I'll never forgive you!"

brow furrowed as she hung up and immediately tried Ryan's number. Each time, she was met with the cold, automated response. Her heart pounded, but she told herself it was probably just

quickly shuffled her work around and decided to drive to his hometown.

on her way to find Ryan. "Clara, why are you here? Weren't you supposed

when she wanted to, but most of the time, her anxiety was obvious. Just one look

eyes filled with resentment as she faced Clara. "Why would I know? Are you accusing me of making Ryan disappear? I'm relying on him; why would I ever hurt

back in her car. As Sarah watched her

mirror-three cars were tailing her. On her way to Ryan's hometown, she had to pass near Z's place. She felt relieved that she

picked up right

at your place in ten minutes. Got anything there I

he replied with a single

him chuckle softly. "What's so funny?" "I'm just