No Strings Attached novel (Sharp and Clara’s)

Chapter 58

lan felt a sudden tightness in his chest. He fiddled with his tie as he stepped into the elevator alone. Moments later, he and Clara entered a high-end boutique, their attire and demeanor a clear signal of affluence. The sales associate, spotting potential big spenders, approached with a beaming smile. "Good afternoon, sir, miss. How may I assist you today?”

lan, his face a mask of indifference, settled onto a plush sofa and busied himself with his phone. Clara nodded politely and drifted toward the shirt display, where a sea-blue shirt caught her eye. It was a color that would highlight one’s complexion, making them appear both distinguished and youthful. It would look stunning on lan, though it wasn't his typical palette, considering his wardrobe was devoid of such hues.

Clutching the shirt, Clara glanced at lan and ventured, “Mr. Hayes, what do you think of this one?” lan barely acknowledged her, his voice detached, “Your money, your call.”

11:44 M)

Chapter 58

sculpted chest caused a tremor in her fingertips. She tried to pull away, but lan’s firm grip held her steady, his teasing voice coaxing, “Ms. Clara, it's not like you to leave things unfinished. Continue.” She managed to unfasten the remaining buttons and helped him into the new shirt. Standing on tiptoes, she began to fasten them, but Clara suddenly lost balance, tumbling into lan’s bare chest. The heat of his skin, the firmness of his muscles, and the steady beat of his heart — every detail sent her senses into disarray.

As she tried to regain her footing, lan's hand securely encircled her waist while his voice, low and teasing, floated down, “Ms. Clara, I suspect you're flirting with me.”

After speaking, he lifted her chin, a smile playing at the corners of his lips as he looked at her. “Do you know, sometimes I can't resist a little flirtation either?”

And with that, he lowered his head and captured her lips in a kiss.