Chapter 20

“You’re back, Ethan! Go wash up, dinner’s almost—” Clara’s voice was as bright as ever, like a cheerful little sprite always trying to lighten the mood. But Ethan wasn’t in the mood for her fake sunshine today. “No need. I’m not hungry.” He slumped down on the couch, eyes instinctively avoiding her beaming face. He couldn’t stand pretenses—he felt the same way about Emma, and now Clara too. “Ethan, are you upset? Did I… do something wrong?” Clara leaned in close, soft as a kitten, her delicate fingers gently rubbing his shoulders. Ethan shrugged her off in one abrupt motion. “Clara, let’s break up.” It hit her like a crashing thunderbolt, shattering her perfect fantasy. She stumbled backward before lunging towards him— “Ethan! What did I do wrong? Just tell me—I’ll fix it! Please don't leave me!” “Name your price.” He didn’t even flinch. Pulling out his wallet, he calmly tore a check from the book. “We both know what you’re worth.” “I… is it because of Emma? Did she say something? She