No Strings Attached novel (Clara and Ian) novel Chapter 411

Clara waved goodbye to Rose, just in time to notice Anders and his family approaching. Little Orin had a bandage stuck to his forehead, clearly fresh from an injury.

Without hesitation, Clara approached with concern in her voice, “Orin, honey, what happened to you? Does it hurt?”

When he saw Clara, the tears Orin had been holding back surged forth. He reached out his small hand. His voice quivered, “Auntie Clara, Orin hurts. I need a hug.”

As Clara moved to embrace him, she was stopped by Elle. “Auntie’s got a little one on the way, no hugging for her,” Elle cautioned.

Orin, slightly disappointed, made another request, “Then, can Auntie give me a kiss?”

Clara wrapped her arms around his neck and planted a gentle kiss on his cheek. Her voice was filled with empathy. “You have to be more careful from now on, sweetheart. You can’t get hurt like this. It could make your condition worse, okay?”

Orin nodded, showing an understanding beyond his years. “I know. Once Mom has my little brother, I can have my surgery.”

Clara, surprised by his words, turned to Elle. “Elle, are you pregnant?”

Elle offered a soft smile, “Just a month along, Clara. How about we go outside and soak up some sunshine?”

Sensing the tension between Elle and Anders, Clara agreed.

They settled on a bench in the hospital garden, basking in the warmth as they chatted.