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.

help you out with

was surprised to find lan standing at

a pretend

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 blank. Don't you find that dangerous? His intention to introduce you to his mother is a sham. He's planning to

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

chin rested on her shoulder, his voice muffled. "Clara, I'm injured and afraid I can't protect

Clara was merciless. "No."

I promise I won't interfere with your

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

not

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

"Trying to play the victim like Heidi? It won't work

and handed lan a pair of cutlery. "Eat up.

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

trying to use that to keep

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

possibility. And get Heidi's medical reports thoroughly