No Strings Attached novel (Clara and Ian) novel Chapter 231

Ian's eyes, which had just been smiling, instantly chilled as he reached for Clara's phone, intending to hang up. But then he heard her soft reply. “Sure, I'm free tomorrow. What kind of food does your mom fancy? I could help her pick a restaurant.”

Brodie's smile was gentle. “Aren’t you worried my mom will actually take a shine to you?”

“That’s what you want, isn’t it? For her to like me so you can dodge the arranged marriage back home? Don’t worry, I’ll make a good impression,” Clara said, stirring the spaghetti in the pot.

Brodie pinched the bridge of his nose, feeling helpless. Clara didn't remember him at all. She was no longer the little girl who used to run after him, calling out 'brother.' She had become a self-assured and independent woman.

He gave a half-smile. “Fine, you choose the restaurant, and I’ll pick you up from your place.”

“No need, Mr. Brodie. I can drive myself there.”

Brodie chuckled lowly. “Clara, that formality kind of gives away that you’re a rental.”

After a few seconds of stunned silence, Clara asked, “So, should I just call you Brodie?”

“Sure. Everyone at home does. It sounds more familiar,” he suggested.

Clara hesitated, then said, “Alright. Don’t worry. I’ll help you out with this mission.” They agreed on the time and place before hanging up.

Clara turned to get two eggs from the fridge and was surprised to find Ian standing at the doorway, his eyes full of silent sorrow. “Clara, you can’t call him that.”

“You and he are different. He’s a pretend boyfriend, and you’re not even that, are you?”

Ian clenched his jaw in frustration. “Brodie is not as simple as you think. I’ve investigated him for so long and found nothing. Not even his family background, schools, workplaces – everything’s a blank. Don’t you find that dangerous? His intention to introduce you to his mother is a sham. He’s planning to whisk you away, and I won't allow you to go with him!”

Ian had used private detectives and still couldn't uncover Brodie's details, only that he was a criminal psychology expert brought in by the local police.

Someone so secretive about their background was not to be trifled with. Ian moved closer to Clara and embraced her. His chin rested on her shoulder, his voice muffled. “Clara, I'm injured and afraid I can't protect you if something happens. Please, don't go. Stay home with me, will you?”

Clara was merciless. “No.”

“Then take me with you. I promise I won’t interfere with your conversation.”

Clara raised an eyebrow at him. “Who brings their ex to meet their boyfriend’s parents?”

She cracked the eggs into a bowl and added, “Oh, and you’re not even an ex. At best, a former boss, or maybe a former benefactor.”

The next day at noon, Clara arrived as planned to meet Brodie and his mother.

Liana was a refined woman with a gentle demeanor and an air of elegance. She held Clara's hand and looked her over, her eyes glistening with tears. “Clara, how have you been all these years?”

Clara was a bit taken aback by such a question on their first meeting, but she replied with a polite smile. “I’ve been well.”

“That’s good to hear. Now that Brodie is in Northbridge, you should go to him if you need anything. It’s nice to have someone to rely on.”

“Of course, I will.”

As they were enjoying their conversation, Ian approached with a stern expression. Spotting Clara, he feigned surprise, raising his eyebrows. “What a coincidence.”

Clara internally cursed at the unwelcome intrusion. She nodded politely, knowing better than to provoke him in front of others. “Mr. Hayes, indeed it is.”

She expected Ian to sit at a nearby table, but to her dismay, he took the seat beside Liana. Pretending to be the perfect gentleman, he suggested, “Since we’re all here, why don’t we join tables? Ma'am, would you mind?”

Liana looked at him warmly, and at that moment, their gazes locked, both of their pupils dilating with recognition.