章 77: "He Is Wrapped Around My Finger.”

Claire's POV

"Claire," Gloria said as her tone was dripping with false sweetness. "How brave of you to summon me here."

I stood up, meeting her gaze head-on. My heart was pounding, but I refused to let her see it. "Gloria," I said, keeping my voice steady. "Thank you for coming."

She arched an eyebrow as if amused by my attempt at civility. "Well, you did sound quite… determined. I couldn't resist seeing what nonsense you had planned."

I clenched my fists under the table, refusing to rise to give in to her. "Have a seat," I said, motioning to the chair across from me.

Gloria hesitated for a second before sitting down, crossing her legs gracefully, and folding her hands in her lap. "Let's get to the point, shall we?" she said, leaning back as though she owned the place. "I don't have all day."