Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Chapter 476

Clara wasn't about to let him have his way, especially not now. She gently pushed him back and straightened her clothes.

"I'm heading out," she said.

He didn't try to stop her, just nodded quietly from his spot.

Clara had always had a unique taste in men. She never believed a guy had to be all strong and powerful. Someone like Z, who needed her protection, was just fine by her.

She hopped in her car and drove off, setting her GPS for home. It was a long drive, and she nibbled on a couple of cookies to keep hunger at bay.

Her first stop was at an old herbalist's place. He was out in the yard, busy with his herbs. When he noticed her, surprise flickered across his face, but he quickly recognized her.

"You're Clara, right?"

The directions had been sketchy, and without asking around, she might never have found the place.

"Hi," she greeted politely. "My brother Ryan said he'd come here for some herbal medicine, but I can't reach him. I'm worried something's up."

"He already left," the herbalist said.

"Which way did he go?"

down a path, and Clara was about to jump back in her car when he called after

"Clara."

turned, sincerity in her eyes.

here that's great

and didn't bring anything

inside and returned with a large jar full of herbs. It was packed to the brim. These wild herbs were pricey these days, and Clara felt awkward accepting them without payment. She fumbled for her phone to transfer

the herbalist gently held her wrist, checking her pulse, and

need for money. Just take

sensed he had more

to drive off, he appeared again, standing in the snow by

to making soup, don't toss the herbs. They'll

felt his genuine concern

worry, I won't throw

leave. Clara wanted to say something but couldn't remember any previous encounters with

She only found long skid marks an the lonely road as if something had rolled off it. Her heart skipped a beat, and

slope was steep and

down on foot,

"Ryan!"