Alexander's sharp question shattered the fragile harmony in the room.

Caraglanced briefly at Wren, the faint smile on her face fading away. Speaking softly to Alexander, she said, "I'm going to cook," and headed straight for the dtchen without waiting for a response.

a better look at Wren. Recognition flashed across his face.

Alexander watched her reaction, curiosity flickering in his eyes as he turned to get al

He'd seen Wren before. The heir to the Zachman family-what was he doing here? And judging by the tension, it was clear he had a significant history with Clara. When, on the other hand, was glaring at Alexander with a gaze that could pierce steel "Who are you?" Alexander smirked, unbothered. "Why should I tell you?" With that, he tuned on his heel and walked into the kitchen, rolling up his sleeves as if he belonged

there.

Clara, surprisingly, didn't stop him

Wren stood frozen, his hands clenching tightly at his sides as he watched the two of them talking and working in the kitchen like old friends. For the first time, he felt completely shut out of Clara's world.noveldrama

The sensation was agonizing, worse than any physical wound. A dark thought crept into his mind had Clara left the city and come here for this man?

The idea was unbearable, but he quickly dismissed it. When knew nearly everything about Clara's life, and he had never seen this man before. This Alexander must've been someone she met after aming in Larkston, but that didn't make Wren feel any better. They had known each other for just a few weeks, and yet ti man really was? How could she be so trusting, letting a grown man get so close to her?

they seemed close enough for Alexander to comfortably walk into her home. Did Clara even know who this

Wren's jaw tightened as he struggled to contain the storm of emotions inside him. Finally, unable to stand it any longer, he walked into the kitchen. "Clara, can we talk?"

Clara paused mid-motion, her gaze falling to the counter in front of her. "I've already said everything I needed to say. There's nothing more to discuss." Won's fists clenched so tightly that his knuckles tumed white. He drew in a sharp breath and turned to Alexander. "I don't know whun your relationship with Clara is," Wren said, his voice tense. He continued,

But we need to talk in private. Could you give us a moment?"

Alexander didn't back down. His tone was calm but fum. "She's already told you no. Didn't you hear her?"

Wren's face darkened, and the simmering anger in his chest threatened to boil over. "This is a family matter. It doesn't concem you"

Alexander raised an eyebrow, mildly surprised. He glanced at Clara, who lowered her head and said nothing. Then, he turned back to Wren and replied, "This is her house. Whatever your relationship is, I'll follow her lead. Clara, do you want me to leave?" Both men turned to Clara, waiting for her response. When's eyes were filled with a faint glimmer of hope as if he were c

clinging to a liteline.

late remained silent for a long moment before finally lifting her head. Looking at Alexander, she forced a small smile. "Alexander, could you step out for a bit? I'll you when the food's ready."

Her voice was calm, but there was a trace of weariness in her tone. She didn't like airing her personal matters in front of others.

If Wren insisted on talking, then they might as well get it over with clear the air and draw a line once and for all.

Alexander's undir faded a little as he glanced between the two of them. The atmosphere was heavy, almost suffocating, and he could tell there was a lot unsaid

They'd only each other for two short weeks, barely enough to call themselves friends. He had no right to pry into her personal matters. Still, he nodd Sure. Call me it you need anything." nodded. "