Your Love Is But a Dream (Clara and Wren)

Chapter 85

Wren's expression flickered with disappointment, but he quickly forced a weak smile, not wanting to upset Clara or risk their fragile truce. He nodded, his voice soft, saying, "Okay, whatever you say, Clara. Let's eat first."

Dinner passed in near-total silence, with the only sounds in the room being the clinking of cutlery. The tension was thick, and the air was heavy with unspoken

When the meal ended, Alexander started to gather the plates, but Wren abruptly stood, beating him to it. His movements were swift and determined as he cleared

claraopened her mouth to stop him, but the words caught in her throat.

"Wren, just leave them on the counter," she finally said, following him into the kitchen. "I'll wash them later."

"Clara," When said with a small, almost paternal smile, "You shouldn't have to do this. You know how important your hands are. Let me take care of it."

His voice carried a warmth and tenderness that made Clara freeze. For a split second, her expression softened, but then she seemed to retreat into herself. Her left hand came up to clasp her right wrist, her thumb absentmindedly stroking it The scar there was no longer painful, but it was a constant temirsler of what couldn't be undone.

Wren noticed her silence and instantly regretted his words. His face darkened, and he fumbled for an apology.

"Clara, 1 didn't mean it like that," he said quickly. "I just past wanted you to know that you'll always be important to me, Nothing's changed. You're still my princess, no matter what."

She stiffened, then shook her head slowly, her hand tightening around her wrist. "It's fine. It's all in the pas

Heptone was calm but distant

"If you're set on doing it, then go ahead. Just leave the dishes on the rack when you're done," she said, leaving. "I need to get back to campus. Lock up when you

Wren stood in the kitchen, watching her walk away. His expression reflected a deep sense of loss.

He didn't follow. He knew she needed space, and any attempt to continue the conversation would only push her further away. She deserved a clear head, especially after her first day of teaching Still, Wren couldn't shake the thought he wasn't going to leave. Not yet.

Once he finested cleaning the kitchen, he placed everything neatly where it belonged, Just as he stepped back into the living room, his phone buzzed from inside his jacket padu

He pulled it out, intending to ignore the call, but the screen flashed with a na With a sigh, he answered, beading himself,

a name that made him pause. It was Katrina.

The moment he heard the voice on the other end, his mood soured. He Ughtened his jaw, for frustration, and to his relief, she ended the call quickdy.

forcing himself to stay composed for Katrina's

's sake. She didn't deserve his

the call ended, guilt flashed across Wren's face. He knew what Carlisle had likely been told about his absence and could now won't the time to address it.

and could guess who had been blamed for

But

bear before pocketing the phone and stepping outside.

Heely apologized to Faina in

standing on the peach, Wien glanced out at the neighboring yard. He spotted Alexander on the balcony, leaning against the railing. Their eyes met, and the tension between them was palpable, like the cradle of a distant storm. A few minutes later, the two men were sitting across from each other in Clara's small living room. Alexander leaned back casually, anns crossed, his tone sharp but cam "Alright, Elead What do you want to ask ane?"

E, confident, and polished, with an air of privilege that didn't quite fit the modest surroundings.

Wien's eyetanowed as he studied Alexander. He was young,

"How do you know Clara?" When asked, las voice inaunted but that. "How long have you own her?"

He wasn't asking out of ide curiosity. We didn't believe for a second that someone like Alexander would coincidentally end up here, forming such a close bond wida. bundang won't adding up