No Strings Attached

lan's eyes, which had just been smiling, instantly chilled as he reached for Clara's phone, intending to hang up. But then he heard her soft reply. "Sure, I'm free tomorrow. What kind of food does your mom fancy? I could help her pick a restaurant."

Brodie's smile was gentle. "Aren't you worried my mom will actually take a shine to you?"

"That's what you want, isn't it? For her to like me so you can dodge the arranged marriage back home? Don't worry, I'll make a good impression," Clara said, stirring the spaghetti in the pot.

Brodie pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling helpless. Clara didn't remember him at all. She was no longer the little girl who used to run after him, calling out 'brother.' She had become a self-assured and independent woman.

He gave a half-smile. "Fine, you choose the restaurant, and I'll pick you up from your place."

"No need, Mr. Brodie. I can drive myself there."

Brodie chuckled lowly. "Clara, that formality kind of gives away that you're a rental."

After a few seconds of stunned silence, Clara asked, "So, should I just call you Brodie?"

"Sure. Everyone at home does. It sounds more familiar," he suggested.

hesitated, then said, "Alright. Don't worry. I'll help you out with this mission." They agreed on the time and

was surprised to find lan standing at the doorway,

pretend boyfriend, and you're not even that,

in frustration. "Brodie is not as simple as you think. I've investigated him for so long and found nothing. Not even his family background, schools, workplaces - everything's a

and still couldn't uncover Brodie's details, only that he

so secretive about their background was not to be trifled with. Ian moved closer to Clara and embraced her. His chin rested on her shoulder, his voice muffled. "Clara, I'm injured and afraid I

Clara was merciless. "No."

take me with you. I promise I won't interfere with your

him. "Who brings their ex to meet their boyfriend's parents?" S~ᴇaʀᴄh the (ꜰind)ɴʘvel.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ

the eggs into a bowl and added, "Oh, and you're not even an ex. At best, a former

a thousand arrows. All the harsh words he had once said to Clara were now being returned with interest. Each time she retorted, it was a fresh wound in his heart. "Clara, I nearly died saving

victim like Heidi? It

table and handed lan a pair of cutlery. "Eat up. You must be starving,

darkened, and he grabbed her wrist firmly, his expression stern. "What do you mean by

saving me, trying

to call Dawson. "Check the backgrounds of the people who went after me three years ago. See if there's any link to the Campbell family." Dawson understood immediately. "Mr. Hayes, do you suspect this was a trap

possibility. And get Heidi's medical reports