No Strings Attached

Edwin clapped Chase on the shoulder with a look of earnest concern before making his way over to lan.

With a smirk playing on his lips, he said, "No way I'm playing the lonely heart's club on my own. Gotta have someone to share the misery with me."

lan chuckled, "Just wait till he figures out what's going on. You'll probably get the beating of your life."

"It'll be you who gets it, not me. You started this whole mess. I'm just lending a brother a hand."

They bantered and laughed as they made their way into the grand foyer. Only Anders remained still, rooted to the spot.

lan glanced back at him and asked in a deep voice, "Waiting for Elle?"

Anders gave a faint nod. "Her arm's been giving her trouble. I'm worried she might not be able to take good care of Orin."

lan let out a low laugh. "She went for an ultrasound today, then to set up a medical file for the baby. Didn't she tell you?" Anders shook his head. His expression was blank. "She didn't mention it."

you not to look for her and you just obeyed? Keep this up and your son will be calling some other

that, lan turned and walked away, leaving Anders alone, whose thoughts were as disheveled as the

out to Elle, but she always found an excuse to evade him. Her coldness left him feeling powerless. He had sent gifts, which she accepted without complaint, and when he

attempt at spending some alone time

never felt such defeat in his life. It was as if

Anders demanded, "What do you mean

with a mischievous grin on his face. "Ever tried seduction? Might

that, Anders couldn't help but curse under his breath, "You

to Elle and still managed to make things right. This sparked a new curiosity

jumped into his car. The engine roared to

the hospital bed, letting the doctor glide the ultrasound device over her belly. While waiting in line, she saw

of love but of duty. Sometimes she felt guilty for even bringing him into the world, knowing she couldn't provide

a voice filled with surprise rang out. "Ms. Elle, congratulations! The ultrasound shows you