No Strings Attached novel (Clara and Ian) novel Chapter 288

Stepping through the door, shielded by a simple curtain, his eyes immediately landed on Ian sitting on the couch. Dressed in black, Ian sat with a straight back, his dark hair falling across his forehead, accentuating his chiseled features. A shadow of a smile played in his eyes.

Joey, who had been smug just moments ago, now felt his face contort, muscles twitching involuntarily, his legs shaking uncontrollably.

Clara’s aunt, blind to her son's distress, eagerly tugged at his arm and urged, "Son, take a good look and tell Grandpa Reed here whether these items are fakes."

Joey was just a department manager in a subsidiary of Hayes Corporation. He had never met Ian in person, having only seen him on television. He'd heard rumors that Mr. Hayes had a beautiful secretary by his side, but he never imagined that secretary would be his cousin Clara nor that they were engaged to be married.

How had such staggering wealth and fortune fallen into Joey's lap?

He scurried over to Ian like a loyal lapdog, offering cigarettes and bowing, eager to make amends. "I had no idea you would be my future brother-in-law. Mr. Hayes, please forgive any lack of hospitality on my part," Joey fawned.

The room fell silent, everyone stunned by his words.

Clara’s aunt rushed over, confused. "Mr. Hayes? You sure you're not mistaken?"

Joey shot her a look, a silent signal, and said in a low tone, "This man is the CEO of Hayes Corporation, my ultimate boss. Mom, we need to prepare a feast. I'm going to roast a whole lamb for Mr. Hayes today."

At the mention of a feast, the very people who had scrutinized Clara now changed their tune, tripping over themselves to curry favor.