CHAPTER 23

However, as Liam's fingers caressed Claire's hand, Claire slowly retracted it, her expression guarded.

Claire was not that naïve; she recognized that Liam's desire to take their relationship to a more personal level, one that she was not yet ready for.

She had just gotten out of a divorce, so she would have to think things through before she considered getting married again or being in a relationship again.

Liam felt the sting of rejection, which was obvious on his face, but he quickly composed himself, his broad smile not wavering.

Victoria, who had always wanted her daughter to marry a successful young man like Liam, immediately stepped in as she saw the growing tension between Liam and Claire.

"You and Liam would look so good together," she said, her eyes shining with a mixture of hope and determination.

"Unlike that useless and miserable loser of an ex-husband, Liam is a man worthy of your affection."

Claire felt the weight of her mother's words, the unspoken pressu