I felt dizzy under Claudia's piercing gaze, and I quickly turned to Christopher.
"What's going on? Mr. Newton, aren't you going to explain this to me?"
Why was someone else in our private space? And of all people, it had to be Claudia!
However, Christopher simply gave me a cold chuckle.
"Of course, I'll explain. This bitch claimed Nelson was really fond of you. She wanted me to risk Mr. Hawk's wrath and target you.
"If you hadn't exposed her relationship with Nelson, I would have ended up being used as a pawn!"
My heart sank. It turned out someone had been plotting against me without my knowledge. If I hadn't secured my deal with Christopher, I would be the one lying on the ground now, in agony and tears.
He burst into laughter, clearly furious with Claudia. He kicked her head hard and added, "I've been around long enough to know better. If word got out that I was tricked by some kid, I would be the laughingstock!
"But don't worry, Ariana. We have an agreement, and I won't go back on my word. Now that it's time to deal with her, feel free to stay and watch."
Claudia writhed on the ground, screaming.
"Mr. Newton! Mr. Newton! You've misunderstood me! Please give me a chance to explain!" Claudia cried.
As she squirmed pitifully, it struck me that I was the one feeling helpless now. Each of Christopher's kicks felt like they were landing on me. I couldn't imagine Nicholas's reaction if he learned about any of this.
How could Christopher treat Claudia this way? She was Nicholas's cherished sister, the official heiress of the Hawk family.
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The readers' comments on the novel: Trouble in Paradise (Arianna and Nicholas)
Unrealistic story. Siblings in love?...