Chapter 9 Being Followed
834 Words
Claire didn't tell many people about last night. Alan only knew because she hadn't contacted him, and she had to explain when he called.
"It was... it was your dad..." Harper's eyes flickered with panic.
"Is that so?" Claire nodded. That made sense. Her father would definitely want to curry favor with the mayor, and Harper was the mayor's daughter.
With Harper's arrival, Alan didn't bring up his confession again, much to Claire's relief.
Each of them had their own thoughts, not noticing the hatred in Harper's eyes.
She despised Claire so much!
If her plan had gone smoothly, Claire would be dead or insane from being violated by now, giving Harper a chance to get close to Alan.
Yes, she loved Alan, but Alan liked Claire!
Harboring these thoughts, Harper maintained her facade, smiling and acting like Claire's best friend.
When the three of them left the restaurant, the atmosphere was lighter, and the tension dissipated.
"I'll drive you home," Alan said, opening the car door.
Just as they were about to get in, a traffic cop approached, showing his badge.
"Mr. Anderson, we suspect you're involved in a car accident. We need you to come with us!"
"Car accident?" Alan looked puzzled, "I think you've got the wrong person."
"Please cooperate with our investigation!"
The officer was firm, and Claire frowned. "A traffic cop can't just arrest people without evidence, right?"
"Please don't interfere, miss."
Harper stepped forward. "It's okay! I'll go with him." She winked at Claire. "Leave it to me. I know their chief."
Claire didn't argue, watching as Harper and Alan left with the officer.
"No one noticed Harper sending a text message.
Harper: It's your turn. Don't disappoint me."
Claire decided to hail a cab home.
At that moment, a restaurant employee approached her with a large bouquet of red roses, their scent overwhelming.
"Miss, these flowers are from a gentleman."
"A gentleman?"
Could it be Alan?
Claire quickly dismissed the idea. Alan preferred to give her sunflowers and gardenias, never something so bold.
A bad feeling rose within her.
Attached to the bouquet was a card.
Claire took it and saw a gracefully written script: Long time no see, kitten. L.S.
Claire's breath caught in her throat. She clutched her purse tightly, her eyes darting around.
There were only couples and passersby, no sign of Lucien.
It wasn't surprising that he found her. He seemed to have significant resources and connections.
But this soon?
She hurriedly left the restaurant, not wanting to linger another minute.
As she left, she tossed the bouquet into a trash can!
Lucien must be watching her, so she wanted to show her defiance.
She would never obey him or let him control her again!
*****
At the entrance of the high-end Silver Club, a black Rolls-Royce was parked outside.
The scar-faced man, Nathan, was standing nearby.
"Sir, Ms. Martinez's childhood friend is now at the police station. She's alone. Should we do something?"
In the car, Lucien casually played with a silver lighter, his eyes unreadable. His lips were as sexy as ever, and his handsome face was adorned by a hint of languor.
Lucien disliked seeing Claire with another man, so he used a little trick to get rid of him.
If he wanted, he could have used a more severe method to "invite" Alan away.
But Claire would probably get mad.
So, what now? Kidnap her?
Or do something to ensure that her childhood friend never sees the light of day again?
Then he could blame it all on Harper and swoop in to save the day.
The thought made his lips curl into a smile. "Do nothing. Just keep an eye on her and make sure she's safe."
Bored, he tossed the lighter aside, rested his head on the seat, and closed his eyes.
Nathan was puzzled. This was a good opportunity, but the boss' orders were never to be questioned.
"She'll come to me," Lucien said softly, his voice filled with certainty.
*****
Claire didn't know where Lucien was or what he was planning.
She just wanted to get away quickly. Nighttime taxis were scarce, so she decided to call her family driver.
At that moment, a malicious voice sounded behind her.
"Hey, pretty lady, all alone?" A man whistled, following her.
Claire realized the street was nearly empty.
This was dangerous. She quickened her pace, hoping to escape!
"Don't go. You're Mia's sister, right?" The man smiled, revealing yellow, nicotine-stained teeth.
He grabbed Claire's wrist tightly.
"Mia?" Claire was instantly on alert. This man must be sent by Mia!
"Looks like I'm right. She said her sister's a slutty hot piece. Let's have some fun."
"Get lost! Let go of me!" Claire struggled, kicking the man hard in the groin.
"Ah!" The man howled in pain, clutching his crotch.
As he loosened his grip, Claire turned to run, but she hadn't gone far when several burly men emerged from an alley.
They blocked any chance of escape!
- Writer
