Chapter 541

That sharp rush of emotion rose straight to Clara's eyes. Her lashes trembled and tears slipped down her cheeks like broken beads. She lowered her head and wiped at them.

"Why did you never tell me this?"

"Because he would not allow it," David said. "That boy insisted it would be embarrassing if you ever found out."

David let out a soft, rueful laugh as he recalled the past. His voice grew gentle