Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run
Chapter 27

If time could turn back, Clara would have dragged herself to the Bradfords' place last night, even if she was on her last legs. She took a deep breath and chose to ignore Simon, who was standing in front of her.

Simon felt pretty pleased with himself. Even though he and Clara had known each other for years, Quinn's arrival five years ago had been heart-wrenching. She was like a delicate porcelain doll that everyone automatically gravitated towards. By now, it was second nature for everyone to side with Quinn. They assumed Clara was just being dramatic and would eventually come around.

The drinks were delivered swiftly, and everyone thanked Jade, not realizing Clara had placed the order. Clara couldn't care less about correcting them and instead focused on the documents she was working on.

She had a real estate appointment that afternoon. After unexpectedly receiving a two-million-dollar windfall last night, she figured she didn't need to keep living in her current situation. As soon as the clock struck the end of the workday, she got ready to leave.

But just then, Jade came over with a stack of papers. "Sort these out. I need them in an hour."

Clara frowned as she flipped through a few pages. "Jade, you gave me these on day one. I've already organized all the critical points."

Jade's expression soured. She hadn't expected Clara to have sorted everything so efficiently. She noticed the neatly compiled file and couldn't believe it had been done without assistance. She assumed Simon must have helped Clara; there was no way Clara could have managed it alone. So, she handed over another stack, mostly duplicates of what Clara had already seen.

To her surprise, Clara recognized the documents instantly.

With a small smile, Clara quipped, "Or is there something you didn't catch, Jade?"

Jade's face darkened. "What are you implying?"

"I'm just stating the facts. The documents I prepared are clear and concise. If there's something you're unsure about, feel free to point it out."

Jade, who saw herself as a strong, independent career woman, couldn't stand such a slight. She took a deep breath and sneered, "You probably had a man's help with those documents. Clara, what are you so smug about? You've got all this because of your family's money. If you came from a background like mine, you'd probably be out on the streets."

Clara clapped slowly, her face calm. "Well, Jade, you're truly admirable. You're the real independent woman of today. We should all take notes from you. Anything else?"

"You!" Jade's cheeks flushed with anger, and she was momentarily lost for words. "I'm not like you. I don't chase after men. I've earned everything I have on my own."

Clara glanced at her watch, finally showing a hint of impatience. "I'm not interested in your life story. If there's nothing work-related, I'm heading out."

"Clara!" Jade was trembling with rage.

Clara stepped into the elevator. She hadn't planned on severing ties so abruptly, but Jade's self-proclaimed independence and condescending attitude were too much. Her confidence came at the expense of belittling another girl. Where was the independence in that? She was just a more strategic player.

Clara headed to meet the real estate agent, who treated her with great respect. "Ms. Clara, this is the finest development in the area, with excellent security. Only residents can bring guests."

The property was indeed impressive. It was not far from the Ferguson Corporation, offering a tranquil haven amidst the bustling city. But even with her recent windfall, it was still beyond her budget.

"Well, this is too pricey for me."

Just as she said that, she noticed another agent approaching with Quinn and Naomi. The agent was enthusiastic. "The villa here may be compact, but it's surrounded by shopping areas. It's safe and convenient, perfect for a single woman."

Naomi held Quinn's hand, her voice full of concern. "This villa is only about three hundred square meters, and the garden is small. Are you sure you want to buy here? I can get you something better."

Quinn's face was all smiles. "Mom, I love it. Three hundred square meters is more than enough for me, and it's close to Simon's office. I can drop by anytime."

As she spoke, she noticed Clara across the way and looked surprised. "Clara, are you here to look at houses too?"

Naomi finally spotted Clara and immediately furrowed her brows. "What are you doing here? Are you here to stir up trouble because you saw me buying a house for Quinn?"