No Strings Attached

Chapter 88

The manager hesitated, torn between her professional judgment and the fact that Leonora was Mr. Hayes‘ mother, who was a force she dared not defy.

Biting the bullet, she strode toward Clara. Just as she reached out to begin undressing Clara, a deep, languid voice floated from behind.

“You like this dress?”

lan strolled over with his long strides, exuding an effortless grace. His warm hand rested on the exposed curve of her waist, and his fingers gently caressed the skin as a cryptic smile played on his lips.

Clara, who had been so domineering towards Heidi moments before, was suddenly without confidence. She knew in lan’s eyes, Heidi would always come first. Whatever Clara said, whatever she wanted, he would choose to believe Heidi and fulfill her wishes unconditionally.

Clara’s fingertips curled slightly as her lashes fluttere, the stubbornness and a hint of hurt barely concealed within her bright, clear eyes. She held lan’s gaze unwaveringly and challenged, “And what if I am? Would you have me undress for Heidi, Mr. Hayes?”

for the anniversary celebration, I’ll be playing the piano, that piece you love Moonlight Sonata, remember? This dress would complement the music perfectly. I was hoping Ms. Clara might yield it to

the

voice betrayed no emotion. “I think

joy she had felt while donning the dress was now replaced by a sharp pain. Clearly, she couldn’t afford to have

sarcasm. “If that’s what Mr. Hayes believes, does my opinion

mirror, she watched as her eyes reddened by the second. Any kindness lan had shown her was just a whim, nothing more. Clara quickly composed herself and began

couldn’t hide her satisfaction at the turn of events. Not only had she bested Clara, but she had also secured the dress she coveted. She beamed, taking

sure I look stunning. I

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