Chapter 72

Clara frowned as she looked at Ryan blocking her path and Nina glaring daggers at her as if she'd done something unforgivable. She thought her earlier dismissal had made her stance clear, but apparently, they hadn't gotten the hint. "Thank you, but no," Clara said curtly, sidestepping to leave. Ryan wasn't ready to give up. He followed her, speaking quickly. "If you're heading home, let me drive you. It's freezing out, and I don't want you to catch—" "Mr. Chase, there's no need!" Clara's tone turned sharp, cutting him off. Ryan froze, stunned by her sudden firmness. He had never seen Clara speak so bluntly. His expression darkened, a flicker of anger flashing across his face. Ryan had grown up pampered and used to people catering to his every whim. No one had ever dared speak to him like that, let alone reject him so directly. He had gone out of his way to please her, and this was how she repaid him. Did she even know who he was? On the other hand, Nina was thrilled