Chapter 36: Grant Holloway Opened His Eyes

"What's wrong with me?" Grant Holloway opened his eyes, his voice hoarse.

Mason Reed stood by the bed, holding a medical report. "The doctor said your irregular eating habits and excessive drinking caused a stomach perforation."

Victoria Holloway's eyes were red. "You scared me to death! When I walked in and saw you collapsed on the floor, your face was as pale as paper..." Her voice cracked. "The doctor said you need proper rest and can't keep neglecting your health."

Catherine Holloway had been glowering silently until she finally snapped. "Where's Clara Whitmore? Her boyfriend is hospitalized, and she can't even show her face?"

Victoria also looked puzzled.

In the past, even if Grant had a minor cold, Clara would stay by his side. Yet for something this serious, she was nowhere to be found.

The room fell silent.

Grant stared blankly at the ceiling. Mason and Julian Cross exchanged glances, neither daring to speak.

"They broke up," Connor Hayes broke the silence. "Grant ended it."

Catherine frowned. "Still throwing a tantrum? It's been days! She's really pushing her luck!"

Grant's expression darkened further.

"Mrs. Holloway," Connor gave her a meaningful look, "this time is different."

"What do you mean? Is she playing hard to get?" Catherine's voice rose sharply.

"Mom," Grant cut in coldly, "we're done for good."

Catherine froze.

Victoria's eyes widened.

Come to think of it, Clara had been unusually absent for a long time...

Catherine stormed out of the room and immediately dialed Clara's number in the hallway.

"Clara Whitmore!" she hissed the moment the call connected. "Who do you think you are? My son choosing you was a blessing you didn't deserve!"

"Do you know how much money he's spent on you? Even a dog would wag its tail in gratitude!"

Her voice dripped with venom. "Get your ass to the hospital right now—"

On the other end, Clara listened quietly before replying calmly, "I'm sorry, but Grant and I are no longer involved."

She hung up, swiftly blocked the number, and deleted the contact.

After completing these actions, she exhaled deeply, as if a heavy weight had been lifted.

Catherine stared at her phone in disbelief at the dial tone. When she tried calling again, the line was dead.

"Fine! Just fine!" She trembled with rage.

* * *

Owen Parker noticed the faint smile on her lips. "Good news?"

Clara shook her head. "Just took care of some trouble."

Night had fallen as they left the library. Streetlights stretched their shadows long, and autumn leaves rustled in the wind.

Gathering courage, Owen glanced at the girl's serene profile. "About that dinner we mentioned—how about tonight? Unless you're busy..."

Clara considered it. "I have ingredients at home. If you don't mind, I can cook?"

Owen's ears turned pink. "Y-Your place?"

"It's a fifteen-minute walk," she added. "Or we can eat out. Your call."

Seeing her composed expression, Owen suppressed his nervousness. "Home sounds perfect. Thanks."