Clara's heart skipped a beat as she absorbed Alec's handsomeness. His chiseled features seemed to be carved from granite. His strong jawline was set in a gentle smile, his lips curved upward in a warm invitation.
"Clara I ask again, is anything the matter?" Alec asked, his bass voice cutting through the silence.
Clara turned to face him again. "I'm fine Alec, just a lot going on in my mind." She suddenly felt guilty as she knew she was about to use her mother's state as cover for her present recklessness.
Alec seemed interested as he adjusted on the seat. "Would you mind sharing your troubles." He paused, a flash of sadness cutting through his eyes. "You know a good lot of my problems, and it'll just be fair I bear this one."
Ryker turned backwards at that moment. "Buckle up you two. W
