Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Clara made her way upstairs, relieved to see the room was already spotless. She turned to Justin with a nod. "Alright, I'm heading out. If anything comes up, just reach out to Cole or me."

Justin opened his mouth as if to say something about calling her directly but thought better of it.

Back in her car, Clara massaged her temples. She'd been running non-stop lately without a break, and her headache was only getting worse. But she couldn't skip seeing Ryan.

When she got to where Ryan was staying, the people outside perked up at her arrival. "Ms. Clara, thank goodness you're here."

She glanced toward the room. "What's up with him?"

The caretaker looked awkward, scratching his head. "About an hour ago, he was begging to see you, and then he just went silent, crying in his room. He wouldn't even eat when we brought him food."

Clara sighed deeply. She'd picked this place for Ryan because it was peaceful and nice.noveldrama

She knocked on the door and walked in, finding him curled up on the bed. Ryan's messy hair stuck out from under the blanket.

Clara felt a wave of frustration as she pulled the covers off him, revealing his tear- swollen eyes. "Are you putting on some kind of sad show?"

Ryan flinched at her voice, curling up tighter.

Clara sat on the bed's edge. "You wanted me here, right? So, what's going on?"

Ryan gripped the blanket, his voice rough. "It's too late. I know what you're planning."

Clara frowned, pulling the blanket away again. "Ryan, the company is demanding, and I'm busy. If you're just trying to get attention, I'm leaving."

As she stood to go, Ryan scrambled off the bed in a panic. "Clara!"

His voice was filled with fear.

Clara paused, turning back to help him off the floor. His eyes were so swollen he could barely see, but he clung to her hand desperately.

"I'll get better, I promise. I've been reading tons of books. Next time you come for me, I'll help with the company. I won't hold you back anymore. Please, don't replace me."

"When did I say I was replacing you? Did someone tell you that?"

If the caretakers were spreading lies, changes needed to be made.

Ryan shook his head, lowering his lashes.

Clara couldn't stand his pitiful look and slapped him across the face.

His face was already red and swollen, and he just touched his cheek, tears streaming down, which only made Clara angrier.

"Clara..."

Clara took a deep breath. "How did I end up with such a pathetic brother? Ryan, if you're like this when I come to get you, don't call me Clara anymore."

Ryan immediately went silent, holding back his sobs.

Clara turned and stormed out, slamming the door behind her.

By the time she reached her car, she was still fuming.

The caretakers walked her to the car, trying to reassure her. "Ms. Clara, young Mr. Ryan has been working hard lately, and with Sarah's company, he's read a lot of books."

Clara had started the engine but froze at the mention of Sarah's name. "Who?"

"Miss Sarah. She said you sent her to be with him."

Clara felt a chill run down her spine. She and Sarah had a falling out, and now Sarah resented her. Who knew what Sarah might do?