No Strings Attached novel (Clara and Ian) novel Chapter 296

Following Clara closely, Ian's face was a mask of concern. He rubbed her back gently as they made their way to the bathroom. He asked, "What's wrong, love? Have you been overworking yourself lately? Skipping meals? Maybe we should head to the hospital, just to be safe?"

Hunched over the toilet, Clara heaved a few times, but nothing came up. Her eyes were bloodshot from the effort. She gave her head a slight shake. "I'm okay. I just need some Pepto-Bismol, and I'll be fine."

Ian wasn't convinced. His large hand came to rest on her forehead, feeling for a fever. "I'm calling the doctor over. I can't relax seeing you like this."

"It's just an old stomach issue, nothing new. A bowl of hot chicken noodle soup should set me right," Clara insisted.

From the doorway, Casey appeared, drawn by the commotion. "Clara, what's all this about? You're not—"

He almost voiced his suspicion of pregnancy, but the words died in his throat. He knew his daughter's health all too well. There was little chance she'd conceive even after three months with Ian, let alone a year. He didn't want to voice a possibility that might only bring her pain.

Clara emerged from the bathroom with a pale face, forcing a smile for her father's sake. "Dad, I'm really fine."

"Sweetie, I made your favorite soup. Come have some. Ian, could you grab the bowls and utensils?"

Casey's words carried weight and sadness. He couldn't bear to see the young couple part. He also knew that if Clara left Ian, it would break her heart. Yet, faced with family hurt, retreating was her only way to shield them.

Feeling unwell, Clara headed upstairs early, alone. She wasn't privy to the conversation between her father and Ian, but whatever was said, Ian stayed late.

As she watched his car pull away from the house, tears gathered in Clara's eyes. Memories of her and Ian's happier times flashed through her mind. Each memory was a stab of pain, leaving her breathless.

She picked up the calendar from the table and circled the date Ian had proposed and the day they planned to get their marriage certificate. Just as she was about to make a note, she realized she'd forgotten a very important date.