Chapter 31

Ethan’s gaze was still burning on Clara, intense and unwavering. But unlike her, he stayed calm. They stayed like that until a knock came at the door. Lucy’s voice followed, “Ma’am, the oatmeal you ordered is here.” Clara tried to get up. Ethan didn’t let go. His hand just quietly held hers, firm but not forceful. Then he spoke, unhurriedly, “Bring it in.” The door opened. Lucy walked in, businesslike as always, placing the food in front of them without so much as glancing around. Clara felt awkward. She tugged lightly, trying to pull her hand away. Ethan let out a low grunt. Clara immediately turned to him. “What’s wrong? Should I call the doctor?” She genuinely worried she might’ve accidentally pulled on his wound. A perfectly reasonable explanation—for herself. She honestly didn’t want to be nursing Ethan here. But Ethan looked at her, then gently clasped her hand again. This time, Clara didn’t move. Ethan spoke evenly, “Fiona’s engagement... I’m not the type to crash someone’s rela