Chapter 296: Clara Couldn't Help but Laugh

"You're so handsome. I'm smitten. Let's try dating. Be my boyfriend... things like that."

"Each request is more outrageous than the last." Clara couldn't help but laugh.

"My greatest trait is acting on impulse."

Connor grinned.

Clara rolled her eyes. "Then keep dreaming."

He ignored her rejection, his smile unwavering. "First dream, then act."

"Success isn't guaranteed." She deliberately deflated him.

"No regrets in trying. Who knows? It might work."

Clara fell silent.

Connor walked her to the stairwell. "Go on up."

"Thanks."

"Call me anytime. I'll come running."

"Mhm."

"You're humoring me again." He chuckled. "I know you're thinking: 'I'll agree now but won't actually reach out.'"

Her lips twitched.

"I know you're fiercely independent. But when you need help, remember me. Doesn't have to be your first thought. Just... remember."

Clara smiled faintly. "Okay."

"Go ahead."

He watched her ascend until her bedroom light flickered on before turning away.

* * *

Paige had been recuperating at the Holloway estate for over two weeks. The baby's condition stabilized.

With staff attending to her and Grant absent, life was unexpectedly pleasant.

Post-morning sickness, she glowed, having gained five pounds.

In contrast, Catherine looked haggard.

Though her weight remained unchanged, dark circles shadowed her eyes. Severe hair loss and insomnia plagued her.

Paige summoned her at all hours for whims. Repeated disruptions left Catherine jumpy, startling awake at night.

Meanwhile, Paige shopped lavishly, slept soundly, and dined exquisitely.

Today, Catherine finally snapped. She abandoned Paige at the mall and returned home.

Paige stormed in later, smirking coldly.

"Abandoning your pregnant granddaughter-in-law? How maternal! What if something happened? Don't care about me or your great-grandchild?"

Catherine, barely rested, flared up.

"Security was everywhere! Mrs. Palmer accompanied you! Quit the dramatics!"

"I tolerate you for the baby's sake. Don't overestimate your importance."

With that, she scoffed and ignored Paige.

Paige seethed silently.

Soon regaining composure, she ordered fruit before heading to the garden.

"Bring my sunscreen too."

Suddenly, the doorbell rang.