No Strings Attached novel (Clara and Ian) novel Chapter 376

When Ian arrived at the family estate, several fire engines were already in position, their lights piercing the twilight.

As he watched the flames consuming the house with a fury, Ian clenched his fists so tight his knuckles turned white. He strode over to his father and asked, “What’s going on inside? How did this start?”

Teo’s brow was furrowed with worry. “Leonora, God knows where she found it, but she got her hands on some gasoline. She sent all the staff away and locked herself in her bedroom with the intention of ending it all. We don’t know her condition right now. Firefighters have gone in to save her.”

Hearing this, Ian’s gaze darkened. “How do you know she was trying to set herself on fire?”

“She made a video call to me before she lit the match,” Teo said with a grimace. “Said some bizarre things, and then... she set the fire right in front of me.” Ian, this must stay out of the media. If word gets out, they will label you as a sinner, and without proof of Leonora's guilt, people will think you're confining your mother to replace her with your wife. It would tank Hayes Corporation’s stock.”

A colder edge crept into Ian’s already icy stare. “I fear it’s too late for that. This seems to have been orchestrated with the aim of reinstating Leonora to her former glory and hitting Hayes Corporation where it hurts.”

No sooner had he spoken than a bodyguard approached to report, “Mr. Hayes, a swarm of reporters has gathered at the gate, clamoring for a statement.”

Ian’s gaze sharpened as he looked toward the entrance. An army of cameras and smartphones was aimed in their direction. He didn’t need to guess to know that this was already blowing up online.

It appeared he had underestimated the person behind this. Their true goal was to bring down the Hayes family.

With this thought, Ian’s hands clenched into fists even tighter as he commanded in a steely voice, “There’s a fire hazard. No one gets in. We must prevent any harm to innocent lives!”

“Understood, Mr. Hayes.”

Ian then turned to the fire chief, who was commanding the scene. “Get me a set of protective gear.”

The chief was firm. “Mr. Hayes, the fire is too intense. You’re not a trained firefighter. If you go in there, you might not come out. I cannot allow it.”