No Strings Attached

lan dipped his head and pressed a kiss to her lips, chuckling, "Missed you, so I came to check on you."

To see her sooner, lan had barely caught a wink of sleep these past few days. His eyes still bore the crimson threads of fatigue.

Clara gently caressed his chiseled jawline, her voice tinged with concern, "You must be exhausted, aren't you?"

lan's nose brushed against her cheek as he whispered in her ear, "Yeah, I'm beat, but it's nothing compared to how I spend time with you in bed."

His words sent a blush scurrying across Clara's face. She playfully thumped his chest, feigning annoyance. "Cut it out, will you? People can hear us." lan let out a low chuckle, "Can't I steal just one kiss, then?"

Before Clara could react, he leaned in and captured her lips again. The crisp scent of mint, laced with deep desire, swiftly drew her into its spell. Soft moans escaped between breaths. lan's kisses grew more fervent as if they carried days of longing. His cool fingertips caressed Clara's cheek, and his voice was husky with emotion. "Clara, I've missed you so much." Her cheeks burned under his lips, her eyes slightly reddened, and her voice was hoarse with emotion, "I missed you too."

suddenly, Casey's voice came from inside the house. "Clara, what's taking the barbecue so long? Is everything okay?" Clara pushed lan away, her voice still shaking from their heated moment. "It's all

lan's hand and led him inside.

yet? Come and join us.

over to the bedside, glancing at Reed's leg with concern.

doesn't hurt much, and I

great to hear. I brought some ointment for muscle and bone injuries. It's in the car. I'll bring it over

with pride at his granddaughter's husband - so handsome and always so considerate. He bustled about, "You must be starving. Come

here?" Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the FɪndNøvel.ɴet website

jealousy, Clara quickly explained, "I ran into a nasty dog outside. Mr. Brodie saved me from a bite, so I invited

him in this secluded little village?" "He's here on business. Stop overthinking and eat." Clara served him a piece of savory pot roast, shooting him a look that told him to drop it.

Try it while it's hot." He then turned to Casey with a polite offer, "Have a taste of this