Laura sensed Matthew's mockery in his words and felt his gaze piercing through her. Her cheeks burned as if she had been slapped hard.

"I didn't mean to... I just wanted Clara's attention. That's why I did it. I just..."

Laura stumbled over her words, unable to find a new excuse.

She stuttered nervously, sweat forming on her forehead.

"Is this how small-minded people talk?" Clara sneered, showing no mercy to Laura, who shot her a hateful glare in ...