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.

you out with this

to find lan standing at the doorway, his

a pretend boyfriend, and you're

even his family background, schools, workplaces - everything's a blank. Don't you find that dangerous? His intention to introduce you to his mother

couldn't uncover Brodie's details, only that he was a criminal psychology expert brought in by the

to Clara and embraced her. His chin rested on her shoulder, his voice muffled. "Clara, I'm injured and afraid I can't protect you if something happens. Please, don't go.

Clara was merciless. "No."

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

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and added, "Oh, and you're not even an ex. At best,

to Clara were now being returned with interest. Each time she retorted, it

victim like Heidi? It won't work with

the spaghetti on the table and handed lan a pair of cutlery. "Eat

grabbed her wrist firmly, his expression stern. "What do

got hurt saving me, trying to

this, lan sat down thoughtfully and took out his phone to call Dawson. "Check the backgrounds of the people who went after me three years ago. See if there's any link to the

outside the realm of possibility. And get