Chapter 76: Mason Reed Gripped Grant Holloway's Arm Tightly

Mason Reed gripped Grant Holloway's arm tightly. "Grant, let's talk this out!"

Julian Cross stepped between Connor Hayes and Clara Whitmore. "Connor, it's your birthday. Don't make a scene."

Both men's eyes burned with fury, like two enraged beasts.

"Let go!" Grant shook off Mason's hold.

"Back off!" Connor shoved Julian aside.

As they moved to clash again, Mason and Julian quickly intercepted them.

"What's going on?" Julian frowned at the pair.

"We're brothers. Don't let this ruin our friendship," Mason urged, sweat beading on his forehead.

Julian held Grant back. "Grant, it's Connor's birthday. Whatever this is, settle it another day."

Connor wiped blood from his lip and smirked. "I meant every word. You have no right to interfere."

He turned to the pale-faced Clara, removing his jacket to drape over her shoulders. "You okay? I'll take you home."

Mason and Julian exchanged stunned glances.

Connor and Clara?

So this was why Grant lost it?

Clara snapped back to reality, stepping away from Connor's touch and returning his jacket.

"No need. I can go alone." Her voice was soft but firm. "I'm not some prize for you two to fight over."

She met both their gazes. "Don't contact me again."

Connor's expression darkened. "Clara, I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking today."

"If you're truly sorry," she cut him off, "then stay away from me."

The fog had lifted.

This wasn't her fault.

Connor's recklessness, Grant's rage—none of it concerned her. She just wanted out of this circus.

But Connor wasn't giving up.

"You can reject me," he said stubbornly, "but I have the right to pursue you."

Grant's face turned thunderous. "Connor Hayes!"

"Truth hurts," Connor shot back challengingly.

Clara turned to leave. "Enjoy your chat."

Connor lunged forward, grabbing her shoulder—