Chapter 81: She Studied Connor's Confident Expression

Clara frowned slightly as she studied Connor's confident expression. Just as she was about to speak, an exclamation came from behind her.

"Clara?!"

Mason had just finished discussing a project in the neighboring office building. Passing by the café, he spotted Clara and Connor sitting across from each other through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

He rubbed his eyes in disbelief.

This café was famous as a romantic hotspot, the go-to place for couples.

Was Connor seriously making a move on his friend's ex-girlfriend? Though shocked, Mason quickly realized this was exactly the kind of thing the Hayes heir would do.

But Clara actually agreed to meet him? Mason felt his worldview crumbling.

His gaze darted between them, words stuck in his throat.

Clara gathered the documents on the table and nodded at Mason. "I should go."

Once she left, Mason plopped into her vacated seat, staring straight at Connor. "Are you serious?"

Connor stirred his coffee leisurely. "What do you mean?"

"There's no way Clara would ever be interested in you," Mason stated firmly.

Connor's hand stilled. "And why is that?"

The sudden intensity made Mason swallow hard. "First, you're not her type. Second, with your history with Grant—"

Connor chuckled darkly.

Mason leaned in, lowering his voice. "Spill it. When did you start having feelings for Clara?"

Connor gazed out the window before taking a sip of coffee. "Probably...around the time she started dating Grant?"

"You bastard!" Mason slammed the table, standing abruptly. "Bro code, ever heard of it?"

"Did I make a move while they were together?" Connor's icy gaze lifted. "Now that they've broken up, I can't pursue her?"

"This was premeditated!"

Connor smirked. "Weren't you competing with Julian for the same girl in high school?"

"That—that was different!" Mason's face flushed red. "We were young and stupid..."

"Can you control feelings?" Connor countered.

If Grant didn't know how to cherish Clara, he would.

He'd already shown remarkable restraint.

Mason raked his hands through his hair in frustration. "I'm begging you, man. You know how Clara is..."

Ever since Grant publicly severed ties with Connor, their entire social circle had been in an uproar.

Some said it was a business dispute.

Others speculated about family conflicts.

The wildest rumor claimed they'd fought over a nightclub performer.

Whenever Mason heard these absurd stories, he could only force an awkward smile and change the subject.