No Strings Attached

Clara turned just in time to catch Heidi eying her midsection with poorly concealed scheming in her gaze. Her expression remained cool and composed, betraying not a hint of panic. With a subtle arch of her brow and a faint smirk playing on her lips, Clara said, "Rest easy. If I ever do get knocked up, you'll be the first to know. I'd hate to rob you of the opportunity to give up hope since that's clearly the best way to get under your skin."

Heidi clenched her teeth in fury. "Oh please, Clara, get over yourself. Remember, you and lan are over. Make sure your words aren't just empty promises, and don't you dare come crawling back. After all, you're the reason Leonora took a hundred lashes. If you even think of returning, she'll never let you off the hook."

With biting sarcasm, Clara retorted, "Even if I stay away, do you seriously think lan would settle for you? He can't even stand wearing a shirt that someone else has touched. What makes you think he'd want a woman who's been with someone else?"

Her words pierced Heidi like thorns to the heart. With fists clenched tight, she spat, "Even if I can't have him, I'll make damn sure you won't either!" Then, Heidi stormed off.

Clara, unfazed by the encounter, continued shopping for baby items and picked out a cute little pajama set for Della. Sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ FɪndNøvel.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

circled back to the boutique. "My sister was here earlier, and she really liked the baby clothes. She wants another set," Heidi lied

"Your sister chose a pink one before. How about I grab

heart finally eased when she noted the age range on the label. Stepping out of the boutique, Heidi dialed a number. "Aunt Leonora,

in bed, sweating from the pain of her wounds. She gritted her teeth. "That's a relief.

it's all been for me, but even though lan's done with Clara, he still won't look

sympathy crossed Leonora's eyes. Softly, she consoled, "Don't worry, dear. I have a plan to get you become his wife. Patience is key,

Though Heidi sounded pitiful, a glint of triumph shone in her eyes. Clinging to Leonora's coattails was her ticket to securing a future with lan. Meanwhile, Clara finished her shopping and headed straight to

"I told you not to buy more. She's already got more clothes

forehead. "It's the New Year. As her