Moment of Truth

Clara's heart pounded with shock as she exhaled sharply, palming her face as she processed what Hayley had just told her. She knew she had heard that name somewhere before, but she couldn't quite place it in that moment.

As Clara's mind swirled with past memories, Hayley continued to apologize, her voice remorseful. "I am so sorry, Clara. I never meant to keep this from you. I just..."

Clara cut in, lifting her head to match Hayley's gaze as she finally remembered. She asked calmly, "Leonardo Anderson. Isn't he one of the famous CEOs in that city... Uh, Clasold?"

Hayley's face twisted with anguish as she nodded, her voice trembling as she lowered her gaze pathetically. "Yes, he is."

Her response wasn't funny, but Clara soon found herself laughing incredulously, although there wasn't any humor in her tone. "You're joking, right? Aren't you, Hayley?"

Hayley bit her lip, her eyes already brimming with tears of anguish. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry."

But Clara's tone remained composed as she