A Fool's Awakening

Clara tuned out the rest of the conversation downstairs. Any explanation she once hoped to hear felt laughable against the certainty of Desmond's choice.

What had she honestly expected the moment Chloe's name came up? Had she foolishly imagined Desmond would suddenly spare her a glance, or talk Hazel out of wanting another woman in her place?

A dry, humorless laugh slipped past her lips. "You re