No Strings Attached

"No can do. My wife has been expecting you, and she's whipped up a feast. If you don't stay for dinner, she might not have a happy year."

They chatted as they made their way inside. As Clara stepped into the foyer, a familiar figure caught her eye.

Greta stood at the entrance, beaming in a festive cranberry wool dress, "Clara, happy holidays!"

Clara stopped in her tracks, staring at Greta in disbelief. Could it be that the relatives Marco mentioned were the Hayes family? Could it be that Grandma Rose and her kin were here on a family trip? With a surprised smile, Clara said, "Greta, your whole family aren't here, are they?"

Greta nodded with a smile, "Yes, indeed. This is Grandma Rose's childhood home. She hasn't been back in years, but this year, I was free, so I accompanied her."

Clara chuckled softly, "What a coincidence."

hand and led her inside, chatting away. "You have no idea. Grandma Rose has been busy in the kitchen all day after hearing you were coming. They've prepared

commotion, Marco's wife and Rose emerged from the kitchen. Both ladies of the distinguished family had actually cooked for her. Clara couldn't deny feeling touched. She

nodded repeatedly, "Happy holidays, my dear

well, "Ma'am, happy holidays." Sᴇaʀch Thᴇ (ꜰind)ɴʘvel.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in

at Clara affectionately, "Why do you look so pale? Was the journey

overwhelmed with joy seeing all of

a charmer. You

past months with Ryker. That boy hasn't been a bother,

smile, "Not at all. Ryker has been very well-behaved. He's been managing the club excellently. He's got a real knack

all thanks to your and lan's guidance. This brat doesn't listen to anyone else, just