Clara felt a lump in her throat, tears welling up in her eyes, like a wronged child seeing their parent.
At this moment, she couldn't deny that Oliver Knox was her steadfast support, the source of safety no one else could replace.
It was a feeling different from what Edward Harper brought, a reliance rooted in familial bonds that gave her peace and relaxation. It was an unconditional support and trust, no matter what happened.
Oliver Knox's brow furrowed slightly as he reached out his large hand to tidy her bangs.
"You're safe, don't be afraid."
Clara, of course, knew she was safe—nothing made her feel more secure than being in the presence of her brother.
Men could run, betray, but family wouldn't.
Clara shifted slightly to sit up against the headboard.
"Brother, I was heading home after work, but I ran into Julian Harper in the parking lot. He's a lunatic, he…"