Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run novel Chapter 458

As they quietly walked down the snowy path, he followed her like a loyal shadow. Despite the chill in the air, Clara's mind drifted back to that day in the ditch. Two small figures, huddled together, surviving countless nights. She never imagined she'd grow up to find herself surrounded by snow again, admiring cherry blossoms under the stars.

Her heart softened, and she couldn't help but ask, "Are you in pain?"

In the darkness, he smiled slightly. "Are you worried about me?"

Clara realized he always seemed to be looking for proof that she cared, that she loved him. She swallowed hard, reaching out to tug on his sleeve, reminded that these cherry blossoms were meant for Dylan. A wave of guilt washed over her, much like a husband caught in the act by his returning wife.

Quietly, she entwined her fingers with his. "I'll come over later and help with your bandages."

"Okay."

"I'll bring you something delicious tomorrow."

"Okay."

"Will you have dinner with me on New Year's Eve?"

He stopped walking, his tone light. "Did you do something wrong?"

Clara's cheeks burned, but thankfully, the dark night hid her blush. "You're my boyfriend. Of course, I want to treat you well. Would you really spend New Year's Eve alone in that dark house? I don't have any plans."

He gently tucked a loose strand of her hair behind her ear, leaning in closer. "Will you let me have my way then?"

Everyone knew what that meant, and he had asked just when Clara felt the most guilty.

She bit her lip, feeling like life was full of one pitfall after another. "Yes."

Her grip on his hand tightened as he suddenly said, "Clara, I'm so happy."

Clara hurried to keep up, her tone almost desperate. "Z, I know you've always felt uneasy, thinking my feelings are inexplicable. I've figured it out. I’m drawn to the vulnerability you show, as if you can't do without me. I like feeling needed. Maybe I wasn't used to relying on others before, but I enjoy being leaned on. It gives me a sense of fulfillment I can't find with anyone else."

She finished in one breath, grabbing his wrist. "Even if I get my memories back, I'll still like you."

But he pulled his hand away. "Vulnerability?"

"Yes."

Clara stepped closer, brushing the snow off the cherry blossoms in her hand. "You asked how I felt about Dylan. I said we’re from different worlds. He's so strong he doesn’t need anyone, silent and noble. I knew from the start I couldn’t like him. But you and he are opposites. I feel like I have to be by your side."

She paused, then heard him murmur, "I see."

That's where he lost.