No Strings Attached

Chapter 367

"That moment was too divine," she thought. If she indulged in it again, there was no way she'd make it out the door today. She immediately pushed Ian away and scrambled out of bed, saying, “I’ve got to visit Katherine today.”

But just as she tried to step out of bed, a strong arm wrapped around her waist. His husky, seductive voice whispered in her ear, “We’ve got time, love. A kiss goodbye won't hurt.”

Before she knew it, Clara was pinned back down onto the bed. A wave of tender passion swept over her as Ian's lips met hers.

She didn't know when Ian had become such a master of kissing, but he had a way of making each one feel electric. She couldn't help but let out a soft moan.

They were in the throes of passion when a knock on the door interrupted them. Casey's voice came from outside.

“Clara, Marian’s here to see you. You two better come down and play host.”

Clara immediately shoved Ian off, her voice still laced with desire. “Dad, we’ll be right there.”

Her voice was breathy, her cheeks flushed. That 'Dad,' said with a hint of a quiver, made Ian chuckle.

Clara hit him playfully, "This is your fault for getting carried away with those kisses."

Ian planted a few more kisses on her face, laughing. “I’ll kiss my baby, and then we’ll go freshen up.”

“This time, you’re only allowed to kiss the baby, nothing else.”

Ian's smile turned mischievous, “Darling, why don’t you tell me in detail what this 'nothing else' is, hmm?”

Clara’s cheeks turned even redder. “Ian, you’re shameless!”

He bent down and kissed her belly, his hand gently caressing it as he said, “Baby, stay put in there. Don’t you dare give your mom a hard time, or when you come out, I’ll spank your little bottom.”

His voice was light with laughter, his eyes filled with adoration and fatherly love . Clara felt her heart enveloped in a sweet, warm bliss that radiated from the inside out.

When the two came downstairs, Marian was sitting on the couch, waiting. She rushed over as soon as she saw Clara. Her face couldn't hide her concern. “Clara, you weren’t frightened, were you? Are you feeling alright? Should we go to the hospital for a checkup?”

Clara took Marian’s hand with a smile. “Grandma Marian, I’m fine, don’t worry.” NôvelDrama.Org: text © owner.

“The knife was at your throat. I was so worried I couldn't sleep all night. How can you be alright, especially with the baby on the way?”

In her panic, Marian let the truth slip out. Realizing what she'd said, she quickly covered her mouth.

Clara didn’t mind; keeping her pregnancy a secret wasn’t an option anymore anyway. She smiled softly. “The doctor checked yesterday. The baby is doing great, so you don’t need to worry.”

Marian’s eyes filled with tears. “Clara, thank you for trusting me. I made your favorite treats. Come try them.”

Marian pulled Clara to sit down and handed her the homemade treats, her eyes shining with affection.

Clara took a bite. The crispiness was perfect, sweet but not too rich. She closed her eyes in contentment, nodding in approval. “They’re delicious, thank you, Grandma Marian.”

Overjoyed, Marian stroked Clara's hair, laughing, “You’re just like your mother. She always loved my pecan sandies too.”

At that, Clara looked up sharply at Marian. “How do you know my mother?”