No Strings Attached

Chapter 83

Clara offered a slight smile. Her voice was tinged with an air of resignation. “Mr. Hayes, that was Leonora’s decision, not mine to question.” And truth be told, she didn’t want to question it.

lan’s gaze lingered on her stoic expression. “Clara, you know the significance of the date l choose to bring to the anniversary gala. Why aren’t you jealous?”

Her tone remained devoid of any discernible emotion. “Mr. Hayes, a sugar baby doesn’t have the privilege to concern herself with such matters. My role is to be your bed partner, to ensure your pleasure between the sheets. Beyond that, my opinion is neither sought nor needed, right?”

Her words were delivered with a deceptive softness, yet each syllable struck like a thorn deep into lan’s heart. He wrapped his arms around her, with memories of a jealous Clara flooding his mind. He longed for that version of her, not this compliant, faultless facade she now wore.

lan gently stroked her hair. “Join me after work to try on the dress.”

“Mr. Hayes, I’ve already chosen my dress. Perhaps you should accompany Ms. Heidi

instead.”

health isn’t the best. Do you really think he won’t suffer a relapse if he

learns about us?”

resisted; lan had found her Achilles‘ heel. “Fine, I’ll go. I have plenty to do, so I’ll take my leave now.”

and headed for the parking lot alone. But as she approached her car, Victoria came running over with a grin. “Clara, Mom’s been waiting. Take

but was deftly avoided. “I don’t have a mother. She died

seven years ago.”

drive away, Victoria threatened her, “Give me two million, or I’ll go to your

by the collar. Her voice was icy with menace. “If you dare target my father, believe

My own daughter disowns me and now

to know she had such

chuckled