Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run novel Chapter 85

Clara glanced over at Simon, then Ada.

Ada chuckled, "Clara, you've always been so indulgent with Simon. You used to be the one making the tea."

Simon let out a scoff, turning his head away.

Come to think of it, Clara hadn't made him tea in quite a while. Ever since she woke up from her recent accident, they hadn't shared a peaceful meal together. The thought left him uneasy; they had never been at odds for this long before.

Clara got up and followed the housekeeper to the kitchen. Once they were out of earshot, the housekeeper's demeanor shifted. She arrogantly tilted her chin up.

"Mr. Simon’s favorite teas are all here, as well as Miss Quinn’s. You’re already doing this for the Bradford family, so you might as well make them all. Don’t worry, I’ll be sure to mention your good work to Mrs. Ferguson."

Clara lowered her lashes, grabbed a handful of teabags, and tossed them into the cups, then filled each with tap water. She prepared three cups in this haphazard manner and brought them back, ignoring the housekeeper's attitude.

The housekeeper only noticed how quickly she brewed the tea, not suspecting anything amiss. Clara placed the three cups on the coffee table. "Here you go."

Simon was the first to reach for a cup, but something felt off about the temperature. Why was it cold? The tea was not even colored. He looked at Clara, who sat on the sofa, appearing perfectly innocent.

His heart softened instantly; it was rare for her not to retort. He drank half the cup in one go. It was indeed cold water and teabags clogged his mouth. Setting his cup down, he glanced at Clara again.

When Simon said nothing, Quinn and Ada each picked up their cups. Ada maintained her composure, placing her cup down calmly despite the cold water. She knew Clara did this on purpose. Ada felt a twinge of annoyance. In the past, Clara would shower her with expensive gifts and flattery, but today she was distant. No matter how strained her relationship with Simon was, Clara shouldn't take it out on the elders. In this regard, Clara wasn’t as considerate as Quinn.

Clara asked, "Simon, do you like your tea?"

Simon was about to reply when Quinn gasped, quickly setting her cup down and coughing forcefully. "Why is this cold water? Clara, we’re at Ada’s home today. If you act out like this, who will manage you after you marry Simon? Even if you and Simon have misunderstandings, you shouldn't upset the elders on purpose."

She put down her cup and took Ada's, dumping the tea in the trash. "Ada, Simon, let me make you fresh cups. Clara might be in a bad mood today. Please don’t hold it against her."

Ada tugged at him. "Sit down. Stop overreacting!"

Simon took a deep breath, finally sitting, glaring at Clara as if he’s about to take a chunk out of her.

Clara’s phone buzzed with a message from Dylan.

Dylan: [What are you up to?]

Feeling in a good mood, she replied quickly: [Discussing breaking off the engagement.]

Dylan: [Good luck.]

Clara smiled broadly, looking up just in time to meet Simon’s gaze.