I LOVE YOU

But after hearing Clara's reply, he knows she is probably angry and the worst disappointed.

He knows if he doesn't correct things quickly she might end the call and the last chance of him knowing if Lucien was telling the truth will be lost. He can't let that. He quickly ransacks his brain for a better excuse.

Having known and felt Clara in deepest ways, he quite knows some things about her that no one else has an idea about.

He just needs to hold on to one and use it to his advantage. He smiles as a thought finds its way to his mind.

Clara has always hated boastful people, if he can make her believe that someone boasted to a certain crowd about being in control of their family, he is certain it will pique her interest and get her to tell him what he wants.

He nods at the thought and hastily pulls the phone back to his ear. "I'm sorry I lied to you, Clara, I just didn't want to get you angry. I..."

"What are you talking about? Can you just go straight to the point? I have impor