Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run novel Chapter 459

Clara grabbed her companion's hand once more, guiding her through the estate's now-darkened paths. Earlier, the place was alive with lights, but now shadows had taken over. Thankfully, the way out was still fresh in her mind.

As they neared the estate's entrance, a thought nagged at Clara. Why hadn't the enigmatic owner shown up? But there was no time to dwell on it; she had to get Z to the car.

The path was dim, with only a distant porch light swaying gently in the night breeze. Clara placed the bouquet of roses in the back seat, stepping back to close the door, nearly stumbling as she did.

Nearby, a fresh tire track in the snow hinted at recent visitors. She steadied herself and opened the driver’s door. Z sat silently in the passenger seat, his head bowed, deep in thought.

Clara drove him back to his cozy townhouse. The soft glow from a lamp by the sofa was enough to reveal just his hand. She quietly tended to his wounds, blowing gently on his palm.

“I can’t stay tonight. You need to get some rest, okay?” she said softly.

“Okay,” he replied, his voice gentle, making Clara’s heart ache with guilt. She still had to deliver the roses to Dylan and couldn’t break her promise again.

Taking a deep breath, she leaned in, cradling his face as she kissed him deeply. His lips, cool at first, warmed quickly against hers. His hand found her waist, pulling her closer, his breathing changing.

If she didn’t leave now, she might never go. She pulled back, giving him a few more quick kisses. “I’ll bring you some treats tomorrow, and we can have dinner together on New Year’s Eve, alright?”

“Alright,” he said again, a soft smile touching his lips.

Clara smiled back, stood up, and headed out. In her car, she glanced back at the dark townhouse, unease settling in her chest. It was already past one in the morning, and she had a long drive to Palm Bay ahead.