Chapter 196

Clara picked up Nicholas's hand and gave it a close look—those scars were fresh. He must've really been worried about her, freaking out so badly he'd hit his own hand and left it covered in wounds. His knuckles were a mess. She could get why he did it. Growing up without any support, unloved by his parents... it made sense that he'd end up attaching to someone just to feel a little less alone. "Why are you staring at me like that?" Nicholas said, his voice soft. "I mean every word, Clara. There's nothing romantic between Serena and me—never was. It was just... reliance, at best. We've never even kissed. My first kiss? I gave it to you." Clara couldn't help it—she burst out laughing. "So what, you're some innocent boy now?" "Damn right. Wanna test that out yourself?" Nicholas smirked, then pulled her into his arms and kissed her deeply. ... At the Evans' house. Eleanor Rivera was quietly brewing tea, with Serena Parker dutifully helping by her side. "Aunt Eleanor, your tea-making skills