Page 45 of Tormented Billionaire Romance Series

“Like you want a second chance.”

I quietly sank into my chair. Although it wasn't visible, I was trying to hide. I didn't want Laura to know what I was feeling. But did I really have a choice? She knew me well—almost as well as Clara did—and that meant she could read me better than most people.

I lowered my voice. “Do you think I have a chance?”

“I think it's worth exploring.”

“I just don't think she would be up for it.”

She smirked. “You never know unless you ask.”

“But that would bother her. She's got enough on her plate as it is. I wouldn't want to disturb her by trying to barge back into her life.”

“It's not barging if you knock first.”

I laughed. “You always were a class clown, weren't you?”

“With the best puns.”

We shared a laugh together and I felt lighter about the whole situation. She was right—I wouldn't know until I asked. And my sister had said the same thing.

But what if Clara said no?

CHAPTER12

Clara

“The streamers should bewhere everyone can see them,” I whispered to myself as I wandered around the room. “The banner should be in view, too.”

I studied the walls of the room the rec center had kindly rented to my client. As I walked around the room a few times, I imagined what items would go where. I had already set the signature book where people could write their memories on the table with the tokens for the event surrounding it, but I needed to figure out the decor.

I went up to the table near the entrance of the room, tapping it pensively.

“The book should go here,” I whispered while adjusting an open and empty book. “And these trinkets can surround it.”

I bent over the table, focusing on my task. While I arranged the trinkets, I heard a collection of voices from the hallway. I turned to greet the group walking in.

“Marilyn!” I exclaimed happily. “It's so good to see you again!”

“A shame we live in the same town and haven't seen each other sooner,” she said through a genuine grin. She opened her arms for a hug and I embraced her. “How are your parents doing?”

“Oh, they're great! Busy as always. I'm hoping one day to do their retirement party.”

“It was kind of you to do it for me. You and I have known each other for a long time.”

I smiled warmly. “You watched me grow up, basically. I'm happy to help you with your retirement party.”

“You remember my brother, Riley?”

“I sure do!” I opened my arms. “Hey, Riley!”

He gave me a bear hug and I squeaked as he said, “You sure did get tall!”

I laughed. “Well, I'm 29 years old now. IhopeI'm taller by now.”

“And my sister, Leah,” Marilyn continued. “You may not remember her much. She traveled a lot back then.”

Leah smiled. “I sold so much makeup across the country. Luckily, Marilyn is allowing me to do hers on her big day. I wish she would let me do it more!”

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