Rebirth Into My Second Chance

Claude's got his ways to keep me down, that's for sure.

He's after Kate, yet he can't seem to let me go.

The only reason I can think of is he's worried about his reputation. I mean, if a high-profile lawyer can't take care of the daughter of the person who saved his life, what would people say? Talk about being possessive.

"An internship is a great opportunity. Do well, and you might just land a scholarship. Make sure you report to the hospital tomorrow."

I nodded in agreement, grateful for the lifeline my professor had thrown me.

Claude's trying to sabotage my future, no doubt about it.

Lucky for me, I had my credit card on me. With some cash in my pocket, I could still make a play.

No sooner had I left the professor's office than I got a call from Kate. Annoying people always know when to bombard you.

"What's up?"

I wasn't in the best of moods, but she didn't seem to take offense. "Claire, I'd like to take you out for a meal and talk."

Before I could even decline, she continued, "Claude and I both see you as a little sister. You've been a bit rebellious lately, moving out and living on your own. Mrs. Hart hasn't heard yet, and it would really break her heart if she did. I just want to talk about it." "No need. Claude's all yours," I replied, then hung up and turned off my phone.

Ever since I ran into those two this morning, it's been one hassle after another, all thanks to them.

Stepping out of the school gates, I saw Kate waiting for me. She approached me with a gentle smile. "How about considering this as a dinner invite from me?"

I let her lead me into her car.

Soon, we arrived at a restaurant styled like a classic American diner, and Kate guided me into a private booth.

11

"Claude will join us soon. What would you like to order? Claude always mentioned how much he adores you, his little sister. When I first saw you, I thought you were so beautiful, it was almost intimidating," she said while getting me a glass of milk. "I spilled your milk the other day, and I felt so bad about it. I made sure to get you some today. Try it, does it taste like it's from the Hilton family farms?"

If I didn't know that the Hilton family's cows lived better than most people, I wouldn't have thought this milk was anything special. "Thanks."

The taste was nowhere near the Hilton family's standards, but I kept that to myself.

With her resources, Kate's attempt was a far cry from the Hilton's luxury.

I had barely taken two sips when the door to the booth swung open.

"Claire, why are you causing trouble again? Your issues with Kate have nothing to do with me. If you have a problem, come to me," Claude stormed in, thinking I was the one stirring up drama.

He obviously felt guilty about canceling my scholarship.

Did he think that after being humiliated at school, I'd come crawling back to him?

Seeing me with Kate must've bruised his ego.

"Claude, you've got it all wrong. I just ran into Claire by chance. We've been waiting for you, and you start off by blaming Claire? Come sit down," Kate intervened.

Their dynamic was like an old married couple, with Kate serving Claude his favorite dishes. "I ordered all your favorites. Try the chef's cooking here." Claude reluctantly started to eat.

"How was your hospital check-up today? Did you get the milk burn treated?"

Milk burn? The milk that day was barely warm. How could it burn?

When I glanced at Kate, she instinctively hid her hands behind her back.

"It's nothing serious. Don't blame Claire, Claude."