No Strings Attached novel (Clara and Ian) novel Chapter 226

Chase watched him with a mix of glee and scorn. "Why don't you keep up the act? I swear, man, there's no Long Island Iced Tea strong enough to match the bitterness of your charade. Haven't you figured it out yet? Clara's a lawyer, for Pete's sake. Trying to outsmart her in a wordplay is like bringing a knife to a gunfight!"

Ian, clutching his side where the pain throbbed, glared at Chase. "Shut it, will you? Is it gonna kill you to be quiet for once?"

"Nope, but watching you get your comeuppance sure is killing me... with laughter, ha!"

Just then, Heidi breezed through the door with a sunny smile, offering invitations to Ian and Chase. "Ian, Chase, my recital is next Saturday. You guys have to come and show some support!"

Ian didn't even flinch, nor did he reach for the invitation. His voice was icy as he said, "I'm busy!" Then, he closed his eyes to rest.

Heidi's eyes instantly welled up with tears, a picture of pitiable longing.

Chase quickly jumped in with a chuckle to lighten the mood. "Heidi, you've got your own gig now. That's big news! I will definitely be there. Don't mind this grump. He's too busy chasing his missus to care about our little world."

His words left Heidi speechless. Was Ian looking to patch things up with Clara? Her hands, hanging by her sides, clenched into fists without her realizing.

A week later.

Heidi's piano recital was held in Northbridge's most opulent concert hall. She had spared no expense, inviting numerous renowned musicians from home and abroad.