Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run
Chapter 65

Clara had just woken up when she heard a lively commotion outside. She was still battling a fever and had lost a noticeable amount of weight. As she stepped out, Addison came rushing over. Her face lit up with excitement. She grabbed Clara's hand and eagerly pulled her toward the door.

"Hurry up! There are loads of farmers outside looking for you. They want to give you a banner to show their appreciation!"

Clara was caught off guard. A banner?

Addison led her to the hotel's entrance, where a bustling crowd awaited. At the front were several young folks, their faces beaming with excitement like it was Christmas morning.

Still a bit bewildered, Clara watched as bursts of confetti filled the sky.

"Clara, this is our way of saying thanks. You have to accept it; we've all signed it."

"We heard a big-time developer is interested in this area for a new project. A lot of our lands caught their eye. From now on, whenever you visit Ashford, everything's on us-free for life!"

"Yeah, my family's land got chosen too. We were discussing prices just this morning. The developer's team said they decided to check out North Ashford all because of you. You're our lucky charm!"

Clara looked at the banner, still trying to wrap her head around everything. It wasn't until the young people placed the banner in her hands that a wave of warmth filled her heart.

Just as she was about to say something, the rumble of an approaching car engine interrupted her.

A luxury car pulled up behind the crowd and out stepped Johnny. Along with Johnny, several government vehicles arrived. They were here to meet Clara and Dylan, the investor.

The dozen or so people, all suited up, included the official who had invited Johnny to Ashford. He quickly approached Johnny, a big grin on his face. "Johnny, you got here fast. You've really raised quite an impressive daughter."

Johnny, looking sharp in his suit, nudged Quinn. "This is my daughter. I wanted her to get some experience. I didn't expect much, but she did quite well."

"Haha, don't be so modest. It was more than just 'well.' Let me tell you, someone important had wanted to help North Ashford, but South Ashford was always against it. The rivalry between the two has been fierce. But now, North Ashford's in the spotlight, and it's tipping the scales."

Their conversation was a whisper, so Quinn couldn't hear it. Still, as she's surrounded by the attention of the government officials, her vanity was thoroughly satisfied.

Someone spoke up, "By the way, where's the banner?"

Didn't the farmers prepare a banner?

One of the staff finally noticed Clara holding the banner amidst the crowd. He assumed Clara was a farmer's daughter bringing it forward. He was surprised by her poised demeanor. She looked more like someone from a well-to-do family.

He reached out, took the banner from Clara, and handed it to Quinn. "Here, Ms. Bradford, this is what the farmers prepared for you. Let's wait for Mr. Dylan, and then you both can take a picture together."

Quinn's smile broadened, soaking up the admiration from those around her, oblivious to any mix-up.

Johnny proudly patted her shoulder. "When you get back to the Capital, I bet the Ferguson family will be keen to discuss ending Simon and Clara's engagement. You've done a fantastic job this time."