Despite what Richard had said, Adrian maintained the investigation on the Caldwells. He couldn’t shake off the unease about Clara’s future and felt it was his responsibility to ensure her safety and well-being. Adrian had a lot of respect for Richard despite everything that had transpired. Richard had always cared for him like a brother, and when Adrian’s mother passed away, Richard had been the only reason Adrian could go to college. The entire family had worked to ensure Adrian received support, as he was to inherit practically nothing.
Adrian had surpassed even Richard’s expectations, becoming a self-made billionaire, but he had never forgotten the sacrifices Richard made for him. Richard’s pride, however, was a constant source of frustration. He was too proud to accept anything for free from Adrian, which only made Adrian angrier. It infuriated him to think that Richard would refuse his help yet was willing to sell out Clara for his own business interests.
As Adrian pondered these thoughts, he knew he couldn’t let his gratitude for Richard blind him to the reality of the situation. Clara’s future was at stake, and he couldn’t stand by and do nothing. He resolved to continue the investigation, determined to uncover any potential dangers or secrets the Caldwell family might be hiding.
After school, Clara was chatting with her friends, the usual gossip and laughter filling the air. They stood near the entrance, the afternoon sun casting long shadows across the school grounds.
Suddenly, the sleek, unmistakable silhouette of a Porsche pulled up in front of them. The engine purred smoothly, drawing the attention of everyone nearby. Clara’s friends turned to look, their chatter dying down as they watched the car with curiosity.
The driver’s door opened, and Adrian stepped out, his presence commanding immediate attention. Clara’s heart skipped a beat, and she felt a rush of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and a thrill she couldn’t quite define. Adrian’s eyes scanned the group until they landed on her, and a small smile curved his lips.
“Isn’t that your uncle?” Sophie whispered, nudging Clara with a knowing look.
Clara nodded, trying to maintain her composure. “Yeah, that’s Adrian.”
He walked over to them, the sun glinting off his sunglasses. “Hello girls,” he said, his voice warm and familiar. “Ready to go, Clara?”
Clara nodded again, feeling the weight of her friends’ curious gazes. “Sure. See you guys later,” she said to her friends, who watched in stunned silence as she walked toward the car.
Jessica gave her a subtle thumbs-up, and Emma mouthed, “Wow.” Clara couldn’t help but smile as she reached Adrian, who opened the passenger door for her. She slid into the luxurious seat, and Adrian closed the door before walking around to the driver’s side.
As he got in and started the car, Clara’s friends continued to watch, their expressions a mix of awe and intrigue. Adrian glanced over at her, his smile widening. “How was school?”
“Same as always,” Clara replied, her thoughts still swirling.
Adrian placed his hand into her thigh and squeezed her flesh softly. Clara wanted to throw herself into him and kiss him all over, but she knew she couldn’t do that in front of school.
Adrian drove through the city streets, heading towards the outskirts where the landscape began to change. The bustling urban environment gradually gave way to quieter, more secluded areas. Clara watched the scenery shift, her curiosity growing with each passing mile.
After a while, the car turned onto a narrow, private road that wound along the coastline. The sea shimmered in the distance, its waves crashing gently against the shore. Clara glanced at Adrian, who seemed calm and focused as he navigated the winding path.
Eventually, they arrived at a gated entrance. Adrian punched in a code, and the gates slowly swung open, revealing a long driveway lined with meticulously trimmed hedges. At the end of the driveway stood a massive, imposing mansion, its elegant architecture blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Adrian parked the car and turned off the engine. Clara stared at the house in awe, her eyes wide with amazement. “What is this place?” she asked, unable to hide her surprise.
Adrian smiled casually, as if bringing her to a mansion was an everyday occurrence. “This,” he said, gesturing towards the grand structure, “is one of my houses.”
Clara’s jaw dropped slightly. “One of your houses?”
He nodded, stepping out of the car and walking around to open her door. “I thought you might like it here. It’s a bit more private, away from the city.”
Clara stepped out, taking in the full view of the mansion. The air was filled with the salty scent of the sea, and the sound of waves provided a soothing backdrop. “It’s incredible,” she said, still in awe.
Adrian led her up the steps to the front door, his hand resting lightly on her back. “Come on, let’s go inside. There’s something I want to show you.”
Adrian unlocked the front door and pushed it open, revealing a spacious foyer bathed in natural light. The interior was as impressive as the exterior, with high ceilings, marble floors, and tasteful modern decor. Clara stepped inside, her eyes darting around as she took in the grandeur.
Adrian guided her through the mansion, their footsteps echoing softly against the polished floors. They passed through a series of beautifully furnished rooms: a grand living room with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a breathtaking view of the sea, a sleek kitchen equipped with the latest appliances, and a cozy library filled with shelves of books.
Clara felt a mix of awe and curiosity as they moved deeper into the house. “You really live here?” she asked, glancing at Adrian.
“Sometimes,” he replied with a shrug. “I have a few places, depending on where I need to be for work. But this one is special. It’s a good place to think and unwind.”
They reached a door at the end of a hallway. Adrian paused and turned to her, his expression more serious now. “There’s something I want to show you. I think you’ll like it.”
He pushed open the door, revealing a pristine garage. The walls were lined with various tools and equipment, and the floor was spotless. In the center of the room, under a soft spotlight, sat a gleaming Bentley, its sleek lines and polished surface catching Clara’s eye immediately.
Clara gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. “Is this...?”
Adrian nodded, a proud smile spreading across his face. “It’s yours. Consider it a gift.”
Clara’s eyes widened, her heart racing. “Mine? Adrian, I can’t accept this. It’s too much.”
“It’s not too much, Clara.” Adrian’s gaze softened, and he brushed a stray strand of hair from her face. “Consider it a late birthday gift since I wasn’t here for your birthday this year. Besides… This house can only be accessed by car. And I want you here. Very often.”