Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

At seven in the evening, Clara arrived right on time at the charity gala, clutching her invitation. As she stepped out of the car, she immediately noticed Eden, who looked stunning as always. Eden seemed genuinely surprised to see Clara; she hadn't expected her to score an invite.

Clara didn't bother with a hello. She handed her invitation to the staff and strolled inside with elegance. Her outfit was understated yet striking a black sequined mermaid skirt with a silk blouse that highlighted her waist, making her look like a mermaid fresh from the sea.

Eden lingered outside for a moment, fighting the urge to make a scene. Instead, she called Simon. "Hey, aren't you coming? Clara's here," she said.

Simon hesitated, then laughed, "I'm on my way. Eden, don't cause her any trouble."

Eden was irked. It felt like every guy was head over heels for Clara, something she just couldn't stand. Faking a smile, she replied, "Sure, whatever."noveldrama

After hanging up, she glared in the direction Clara had gone and then dialed her bodyguard. Tonight, she was set on ruining Clara's reputation.

Inside, the venue was stunning-glasses clinking, the air filled with expensive perfumes. It was a world Clara wasn't quite familiar with; she didn't frequent such events often. Several people who knew her glanced her way, raising eyebrows and whispering.

Everyone was aware of Clara's history with Simon-years of unrequited love, only for her to leave him for some unknown waiter when things finally seemed to go

her way.

Clara scanned the room, searching for her target. Just as she moved to approach, a girl with a tray of drinks and a disdainful look headed her way.

"Clara?" the girl sneered.

Clara frowned, not recognizing her.

The girl, clearly trying to provoke her, said, "Oh, so you dumped Simon and now you're too good for everyone else, huh?"

Clara racked her brain and remembered—she was from the Dawson family. They had a longstanding grudge against her over something that happened to Shelly, so a confrontation wasn't unexpected.

Jeffree, the girl, aimed her drink at Clara. But Clara was ready and quickly dodged. The wine ended up splashing all over Eden, who was just walking in.

The commotion instantly drew everyone's attention.

Jeffree was shocked. "Eden, are you okay?"

Apparently, they were friends, and Jeffree's attempt to humiliate Clara had been Eden's idea.

Eden shook her head, glaring at Clara with disdain. Clara couldn't help but find the situation amusing and was about to continue when Eden called out.

"There's more to your brother's story than you know. There's a key person you've missed."

Clara paused and looked back at Eden.

Eden smirked, raising an eyebrow. "You'd never guess who. If you want to find out, come with me upstairs."

Clara chuckled, "Ms. Eden, do I look like I was born yesterday?"