Claimed by the Crown Heir novel Chapter 169

She wasn't even fifteen yet five years ago!

Nancy never imagined her precious daughter had experienced love at first sight with a grown man at such a young age.

If it were anyone else, she would absolutely support her. But the man was Alistair Howard.

Looking at Clara's red-rimmed eyes, Nancy's heart softened slightly.

She had been young and in love once. She understood better than anyone that an unrequited crush was the most frustrating, agonizing secret in the world.

Keeping it hidden was torture, but saying it out loud could cost you all your dignity.

Especially when crushing on someone you had no business crushing on.

"Clara, the two of you aren't a match. Besides, she's not just Ace's girlfriend. She's Arthur's personally chosen granddaughter-in-law. Do you really think you can change the old man's mind? Or do you honestly believe you're prettier than her?"

Clara bit her lip. "What does pretty have to do with anything? I'm not exactly ugly."

She was sweet, vibrant, and incredibly charming. She had that classic girl-next-door beauty, full of youthful energy and bright-eyed innocence.

Plenty of guys chased her at school!

"You are lovely, but Ace isn't interested in you," Nancy pointed out bluntly, hitting the nail on the head.

When a man loves a woman, you can see it in his eyes.

Clara looked frustrated. "If I just try, I know he'll like me. Nolan will help me too..."

"Do you honestly think your cousin can dictate Alistair Howard's decisions?" Nancy's tone was strict but gentle. "Go home, take a shower, and think carefully about what I've said."

Once the grill was fired up, Alistair patiently cooked everything, transferring the perfect pieces onto Vanessa's plate.

His well-defined hands held the tongs with steady precision, grilling the premium steaks and seafood to absolute perfection. He didn't let her lift a single finger.

Vanessa chewed happily, her eyes narrowing in satisfaction as she looked at the elegant, dominant man across from her, testing the waters.

"Are you always this good at taking care of people, Mr. Howard?"

"You're the first."

"Really? You've never pampered any other girls before?"

Alistair's gaze darkened. He spoke in a low rumble, "No one but you."

Her heart skipped a beat. She averted her eyes and took a sip of her crisp white wine. It was sweet, perfectly matching her mood.

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