Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run novel Chapter 5

Clara felt a wave of frustration wash over her, but seeing how exhausted Megan was, she decided to keep her thoughts to herself.

Megan tossed a fresh pair of pajamas on the bed. "Your room's got its own bathroom. Go take a shower and get some rest. I'm wiped out today, so let's skip the chit-chat."

Clara nodded, murmuring a quiet, "Thanks."

As Megan headed towards one of the bedroom doors, Clara realized the other room was hers. After grabbing her pajamas and enjoying a much-needed shower, she finally felt a bit more at ease.

Just as she was about to fall asleep, her phone buzzed with a new message. It was from her brother, Ryan.

Ryan: [Hey, I'm back home for the holidays. It's Quinn's birthday today. Why aren't you here? Mom said you ran off again. Seriously, can you just come back? The housekeeper's cooking is awful. I miss your food. Don't forget to make your potato salad for breakfast tomorrow.]

Ryan: [Quinn was crying tonight. Just come back and apologize. You stir up drama everytime. It's exhausting. Simon doesn't even like you, and sometimes it's embarrassing for me.]

Clara's heart ached, feeling like the whole world was team Quinn, while she was just the odd one out. Even if her memories were a bit hazy, the hurt was real and raw.

The next morning, Clara was up early with dark circles under her eyes. She headed to the kitchen to whip up something to eat and was surprised to find her cooking skills hadn't abandoned her.

Megan emerged from her room, drawn in by the delicious aroma, and sighed. "Are you making breakfast for Simon again? Has he ever tasted your cooking? You spent your time cooking, had no job after graduation, and just followed him around. For what? Everyone's just laughing at you."

Clara paused, spoon in hand, about to say it wasn't for Simon. But it seemed no one would believe her.