No Strings Attached novel (Clara and Ian) novel Chapter 205

Ian was utterly captivated by the small birthmark shaped like a petal on Clara’s shoulder blade. Whenever he held her from behind, his lips were drawn to that delicate mark, as if by some magnetic force.

He fancied that with each kiss, the blossom exuded a sweet, floral scent that seemed to fuel his desire. The thought that Clara could be May’s daughter – and therefore his intended – sent waves of emotion through him, making his gaze grow more intense and tender.

His voice was husky with emotion, barely above a whisper. He proclaimed, “Clara, you’re my destiny.”

Then, he restarted the engine.

Clara, headphones in, had missed the exchange between Ian and Edwin, and even Ian’s heartfelt declaration had gone unheard. She had indulged in a glass or two of wine that evening, and with Anders away, she’d been swamped with cases at the firm. It had been days since she’d had a proper rest.

As the soothing music played and the enchanting night view passed by the window, Clara’s consciousness began to drift. She fought the encroaching sleep for a moment, but within three minutes, her neck slumped and she was out cold against the seatback.

The next morning, Clara was jolted awake by the insistent ringing of her phone. Groggily, she grabbed the device and answered without checking who it was. Sasha’s voice, laced with surprise, came through, “Clara, where the heck are you? You’re not home.”

Clara’s voice was rough with sleep as she mumbled with her eyes still closed, “I’m home.”

“No, you’re not. I’ve been calling your name at your place for ages, not a soul in sight.”

Just then, Clara’s vision blurred and a deep, magnetic voice filled her ears. “Clara, did you wear yourself out yesterday?”

Hearing this, Clara cursed herself inwardly. She was usually a light sleeper, and the slightest noise could wake her. Only ever beside Ian had she felt safe and sound enough to sleep deeply.

How could she have let her guard down around this man after their breakup?

Scrambling out of bed, she made for the door, but Ian’s grip on her wrist stopped her. In an instant, a powerful pull had her colliding into his chest, making her eyes water from the impact.

Glaring at him furiously, Clara warned, “Ian, if you lay a finger on me, I’ll sue you for harassment.”

Ian held her close. His gaze softened as he looked down at her. There was a smirk playing on his lips. “Attorney Clara, before you think about suing me, maybe you should take a look at this?”