Chapter 213

Clara was already used to her big brother Michael's childish antics. "Did you hear me earlier? I was singing to Charlotte, and she said it sounded great!" Michael grinned. Nicholas gave a polite, somewhat awkward laugh. "As long as you're happy, bro." After checking in on Michael, Clara and Nicholas stepped out—and saw Jeffery waiting outside. Clearly, he had been there just for them. "Clara, can I talk to you for a sec?" Jeffery asked. He looked much more worn out than usual, probably because of the whole thing with Emily. "Sure," Clara nodded. They moved off to the side, and Jeffery looked embarrassed as he started, "Honestly, I wasn't planning on dragging you into this, but I'm really out of options. Emily won't talk to me, I can't even get near her... Can you help me? I know what happened last time was mostly my family's fault, but I really can't let her go." "I can try helping you, but in the end, it's up to my sister. If she truly wants to cut ties, there's nothing I can do." A t