No Strings Attached

Chapter 357

Ian's eyes narrowed at the revelation, his voice growing tense, "You know everything?"

Marian, with tears welling up in her eyes, nodded. "I had my suspicions, but hearing it from you, I'm certain now. Ian, you've suffered such a terrible injury for Clara. I'm so relieved on May's behalf. She was right about you."

In a deep voice, Ian said, "Grandma, it's what I had to do."

The word 'Grandma' unleashed a fresh torrent of tears from Marian. Not only had she found her granddaughter, but she also learned of Clara's pregnancy. To top it off, the father of the baby had just referred to her as grandma.

Marian, clutching Ian's hand, was too moved to know what to do. She immediately turned to Rose and exclaimed, "My grandson-in-law called me grandma!"

Rose, now in on the truth, couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear. "May had always envisioned him to be the one for Clara. It's only right he calls you grandma. Now that Heidi's locked up and Leonora's grounded, the danger has passed. Ian, do you think you could bring Clara around to the house sometime? Marian and I would love to see and take care of her and the baby."

Ian hesitated, "It's not that simple. As long as the person who framed Aunt May is out there, Clara is in danger. We can't let our guard down. But I'll find a way for her to meet you. Just don't mention anything."

"We understand. We won't say a word. The child's safety is what matters most."

Marian and Rose, knowing they would soon see Clara, had tears in their eyes. Marian was especially overcome with emotion. From the first time she laid eyes on Clara, she felt an indescribable connection. Clara was her true granddaughter.

A week later, Casey was discharged from the hospital. During his stay, many relatives and friends came to visit. Clara organized a party for her father to help her relatives express their gratitude and say their goodbyes.

As she stepped into the banquet hall, she saw Orin running towards her in a tiny white suit, shouting, "Aunt Clara, I missed you so much."

Clara immediately bent down and pinched his cheek, smiling, "I missed you too, little man. Who did you come with? Where are your parents?"

Orin's smile broadened, "Mom and Dad had to work, so I came with Great-Grandma Marian. Look, she's been waiting for you over there."

Following the direction of Orin's tiny finger, Clara's gaze landed on Marian, who was looking her way with a warm, inviting smile.

Taking Orin by the hand, Clara walked over to Marian and respectfully nodded her head. "Ms. Marian, what brings you here?" Property © NôvelDrama.Org.

Marian immediately grabbed Clara's hand, managing to suppress the excitement bubbling inside her, and said with a smile, "Orin insisted on coming when he heard you were hosting. His parents were busy, so I brought him along. Also, I wanted to see how your father is recuperating."

"Thank you for your concern, Ms. Marian. My father is recovering well."

"That's good to hear. You must be exhausted from all the stress. Come, sit down, have something to eat." Marian ushered Clara to a seat and handed her a delicately prepared meal box. "I heard you've been quite picky with food lately. I worried you wouldn't enjoy the fare here, so I made some light dishes and pastries for you. I hope they suit your taste."

Clara, looking at the delicate dishes in front of her, felt a wave of emotion stir within her. She despised Heidi and loathed Paolo, but Marian always felt warm and familiar. With a soft smile, Clara replied, "Thank you, Ms. Marian."

Marian held Clara's hand and was reluctant to let go. "Clara, could you do what Ian did and call me grandma?"