No Strings Attached

Chapter 63

Clara’s slap landed across lan’s cheek with a sting that was more insulting than painful.

lan was the top dog in Northbridge, a tyrant no one dared to cross, and the Hayes family’s icy heir.

Nobody would dare speak out of turn in his presence, let alone raise a hand to him. The act could spell doom.

Even Chase felt a surge of anxiety for Clara. He grabbed lan, trying to talk sense into him. “lan, she’s sloshed. Don’t stoop to a drunk’s level. Come on, let’s get you home,” Chase said, attempting to lead lan out.

lan shrugged him off, his face stormy as he glared at Clara. Seeing lan like this, Anders. immediately shielded Clara behind him. “Mr. Hayes, Clara’s had a bit too much to drink. I apologize if she’s offended you,” Anders implored.

lan’s lips twitched with barely contained fury. “You apologize for her? And you have the right?”

think you

moved to snatch Clara away

don’t love

Anders said,

world. It made lan’s blood boil, his temples throbbing. He sneered ominously. “Let her go? And

and ensure she’s never hurt again,”

lan to the core. Suddenly, it felt like if he didn’t act now, he’d lose what he desired

on shielding Clara, didn’t retaliate. The punch landed squarely on his face, blood trickling from the corner

you ever protected her? Have you shown her anything but harm? Have you ever loved her? lan, three years ago I stepped aside for you, but not this time. I’ll fight you for her, even at the cost of everything

his, but it was a secret to everyone else. Anders‘ feelings for Clara were an

lunged forward, pulling Clara from behind Anders into his chest. Her slight frame nestled against him like a submissive kitten, softening his