Building Her Throne Burying My Heart (Claire) novel Chapter 40

“With an offer like that, how could I not be tempted?”

Claire didn’t get mad. She just laughed and shook her head. “Wow, you really do have dollar signs in your eyes. Is that all it takes to win you over?”

I laughed too, but there wasn’t much feeling in it. “Who doesn’t like money, right? Especially someone as broke as me. This is more than I could make in years. And if I go with Catherine, I never have to worry about money again.”

I tried to act casual, but then Claire’s hand came out of nowhere and slapped me hard across the face. For a second, everything spun. My cheek burned and I could tell she hadn’t held back at all. Even Catherine was stunned.

Claire glared at me, her voice sharp. “You forget where your loyalties are that fast? I haven’t even said yes, and you’re already planning your new life. Do you really think you’re good enough for Catherine?”

Catherine stepped in quickly, trying to calm things down. “Whoa, Claire, relax. I was only joking. I don’t have to have him. If you don’t want to let him go, then I’ll back off. Don’t be mad.”

Claire’s hand was shaking. I could see she just couldn’t believe I’d actually be willing to go with Catherine for money. Like I’d give up my pride for a pile of cash.

She stared me down, her eyes cold. “So you’d throw away your self-respect for money?”

I turned to her, slow and deliberate. “Self-respect? Can I eat that? Right now, all I need is cash. Whoever pays more, I go with them. Whoever gives me money, that’s who I answer to.”

She left in a hurry, not wanting any part of the mess. Now it was just me and Claire.

Claire looked at me one last time, her expression hard. Then she turned to go. I realized I had no one left to ask for help.

“Claire!” I called out, my voice thick with panic. “It’s not for gambling or anything like that this time. I really need the money. Please, just trust me for once.”

Claire didn’t turn around. Her voice was flat. “If you want me to believe you, fine. Go kneel at my father’s grave for a whole day and night. If you can come back after that, maybe I’ll think about it.”