Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run novel Chapter 396

Clara had plans to meet Kaitlyn today, but Jackson had insisted on coming along, making it clear he wouldn’t take no for an answer. Begrudgingly, she called him, and to her surprise, he was unusually enthusiastic, showing up outside her apartment building in less than thirty minutes.

With her car still in the shop, she had no option but to tap on his car window. "Hey, Jackson, mind giving me a lift?"

Maybe it was just her imagination, but Jackson seemed to have put some effort into looking sharp today. He gave a short, mocking laugh and gestured for her to hop in.

Choosing wisely, Clara slid into the backseat instead of the front. The car suddenly lurched forward, nearly sending her face into the back of the front seat.

Jackson smirked, "Try not to leave your makeup all over my car."

Clara felt her frustration boiling over. She could only dream of a day when Jackson would fall hopelessly in love, turning from the arrogant CEO into a lovesick puppy—that would be just perfect! The thought alone made her chuckle.

Jackson, who had slammed the brakes earlier just to mess with her, was puzzled by her laughter. "What's so funny?"

"Nothing," Clara quickly hid her smile.

They finally reached the café where she was supposed to meet Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn was already there by the window, looking surprised to see them together.

Jackson raised an eyebrow and sat across from Kaitlyn. "What a surprise."

He expected her to show some discomfort, but Kaitlyn only flashed a brief look of surprise before putting on a polite smile. "Hello, Jackson."

The formal tone made Jackson’s temper flare.

Clara sat beside him, exchanged a few pleasantries with Kaitlyn, and then started discussing her upcoming investment plans. With Jackson around, she couldn’t go into too much detail, until Kaitlyn chimed in.

"Both artists are here, Clara. Want to come take a look? They seem promising."

Clara nodded and stood up, glancing at the silent Jackson. "Maybe you should head back, Jackson?"

No way was Jackson leaving now, not when he was so close to discovering where Kaitlyn worked.

Kaitlyn turned to him, still courteous. "Are you interested in coming too, Jackson?"

Jackson tilted his chin. "Maybe there’s someone at your studio I’d fancy."

He emphasized "fancy" with a playful undertone, but Kaitlyn just smiled. "Well, that would be their good fortune."

Jackson’s mood soured, and he fell silent.

As the three headed outside, Clara felt the odd tension in the air—Kaitlyn seemed to be the only one unfazed.