No Strings Attached

Clara was taken aback. Then she remembered the story Edwin had once told her, and her heart went out to Marian.

Marian's daughter was murdered, and her beloved granddaughter of over two decades turned out to be the child of a mistress. Seeing the hopeful look in Marian's eyes and feeling the deep longing in her heart, Clara affectionately called out, "Grandma."

At the sound of "Grandma," Marian could no longer contain her emotions. Tears streamed down her cheeks.

She nodded repeatedly, her voice trembling. "My dear, I am so happy to see you. You take good care of yourself, okay?"

"I will, thank you, Grandma Marian."

that Marian was aware of Clara's true identity. He also knew

was the daughter he had cherished all his life. The thought of her returning to

always be your daughter, and you will always be the only father-in-law I recognize. Take

him on the shoulder with relief. "Of course, I'll be there

walked up with his mother, Katherine, holding a gift in his hands.

the day, our neighbor made the most incredible blueberry wine. It was sweet and rich, and you couldn't get drunk off it easily. One time, Clara sneaked a

was such a mischievous child, so adorable." His eyes shifted to lan as he

didn't show jealousy, instead, he raised his eyebrows proudly. "Thanks for the compliment. My wife is still quite adorable. But Casey just had

meaning. "Mr. Hayes, don't forget the promise you made to me to treat Clara well for a lifetime, or else, I