Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

Chapter 0040

Nicholas let me go, not because of our past, but because Claudia was expecting him. He commanded, "Dry your tears. Watch your words when we get back." The journey back to Hawk Manor was silent, with none of us saying a word.

I sat in the passenger seat, while Claudia, clearly scared, huddled into Nicholas' arms, appearing almost lifeless.

She clung to him as usual, their bodies pressed together. Nicholas' hand rested on Claudia's head, their interaction intimate and familiar.

A profound sadness engulfed me as I reflected on my passive role in their relationship.

Suddenly, I noticed that the rearview mirror was angled oddly. When I glanced up, Nicholas caught my eye.

There seemed to be a strange connection between us, our gazes meeting more frequently than mere chance would allow. Even with his dear Claudia in his arms, he

continued to steal glances in my direction. There was a distinct contrast between the atmosphere in the backseat and my solitary space. Yet, Nicholas tried to bridge it by stealing glances at me.

I shut my eyes and leaned against

professor informed me that missing more classes could jeopardize your graduation. No one from the Hawks

Nick,"

you

I assumed. she felt ashamed over her poor grades, but she suddenly sat up straight. Her voice quivered with emotions as she asked, " Ariana, is

momentarily speechless. I opened my eyes, finding Nicholas

myself seem innocent. "Claudia, why would you even assume

me, Claudia suddenly exclaimed, "Ariana, why did you

The directness of her question made me feel a twinge of shame as if I

to meet her gaze squarely. "I just decided

couldn't let her keep pushing me

to another college. I thought you guys preferred having me away from home," Claudia said, tugging at Nicholas' sleeve. She avoided