No Strings Attached

Clara had just been through the wringer. Her stomach was churning, her mind a muddled mess from the nausea that had overtaken her. Caught off guard by Rose's question, she found herself at a loss for words.

When she saw the streaks of tears on Rose's face, a pang of sympathy pricked her own heart. The lies she wanted to tell got stuck in her throat. She couldn't bring herself to voice them.

Her hesitation only solidified Rose's suspicions. Rose took Clara's hand and said, "Clara, dear, I always knew you were such a sweet girl. How could the heavens deny you the joy of a child? You're planning to keep this from lan, aren't you?"

Rose was quick to unearth the secrets buried in Clara's heart, leaving her feeling exposed. "Grandma Rose, I'm sorry. I just don't want any harm to come to the baby. If Leonora and Heidi find out, they'll surely concoct some scheme against me."

With Clara's affirmation, Rose seemed to calm down. She wiped away her tears, and said, "Then tell me. What's your plan? I'll stand by you and promise to keep your secret."

from me, and that

you have in mind? I

graduated from had invited me for further studies after graduation, but I turned it down to be with lan. I think it's time to

she won't trouble you," she said, gently touching Clara's belly. "Little one, I'm sorry you and your mom have to go through this. I will take good care of you

Clara bid farewell to the family and headed to Sasha's place. As soon as she walked in, she overheard Sasha ranting, "That idiot Heidi actually went and asked my cousin for

"What did your

dumb, took the card, and showed her a fake pregnancy

your name is on it. I'm afraid she might do something to hurt you. You're just starting your career; an unwed pregnancy scandal

off, "That might be a blessing in disguise. It'd get my grandpa off my back about getting married. If it gets out, I'll just stage a fake wedding. If my cousin doesn't spill

me. Once the baby is born, I'll make it up to you with