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."

the barbecue so long? Is everything okay?" Clara pushed lan away, her voice still shaking from

led him inside.

lan, waved with a smile. "Ian, haven't had dinner yet? Come and join us. Clara, grab lan

the bedside, glancing at Reed's leg with concern. "How's your leg

doesn't hurt much, and I can move it on my own

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

so handsome and always so considerate. He bustled

taking a seat beside Brodie, his expression suddenly turning cold. "What are you doing here?"

explained, "I ran into a nasty dog outside. Mr. Brodie saved me from a bite, so I invited him over

ruffled Clara's hair with a smile. "Why so nervous? I was just asking. Isn't it a bit too coincidental to bump into 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

a piece. "Mr. Brodie, have some more. My wife's pot roast is top-notch. Try it while it's hot." He then turned to Casey with a polite offer, "Have a taste of this wine. It's been in my collection for years, too good to open until now." With just a few words, he established his place