Chapter 286

His eyes flicked over to the lit-up phone screen. A message. It read: Claire, this can’t be delayed any longer. The more you wait, the worse it’ll get. While I still have time to help you... The rest of the text was cut off, but it was clear there was more. No name attached—just a number. Still, the tone screamed familiar. And yet, not even a contact name saved. Definitely Lucas Bennett. The screen dimmed. Julian Archer rubbed his brows, mulling over those words. No delaying... makes it worse if dragged out... His frown slowly smoothed, but something in his eyes shifted, sharp and intense. Twenty minutes later. Claire Richards walked out from the bathroom, her freshly-washed face slightly flushed. Seeing him still there added a rosy tint. Was he planning to crash here tonight? She strolled over to grab her phone, speaking casually, “There’s no towel for you in my room. If you're set on that shower, maybe head back to the master bedroom.” She slowed her pace on purpose. As expected, he