No Strings Attached

Chapter 291

As they descended the staircase, Clara caught sight of Grandpa Reed seated in his wheelchair and beaming at them. He was decked out in a striking suit. She approached with a chuckle, eyeing his getup. "We're just going to sign some papers, not walking down the aisle. Don't you think you're a bit overdressed, Grandpa Reed?"

Reed's grin was wide as the Mississippi. "My little girl, you're tying the knot. Of course, I gotta put on the ritz! After you two make it official at city hall, we're heading over to your dad's to drop off the wedding gifts. I can't have you looking anything less than fabulous, now can I?" NôvelDrama.Org owns this.

Clara turned to Ian, utterly bewildered. "How did things move so fast?"

Ian raised an eyebrow with a sly grin. "Well, Grandma Rose and the clan heard wedding bells and couldn't sit still. They consulted with that old fortune teller, picked today as the 'perfect day for nuptials,' and here we are. We'll get the paperwork done, swing back, pick up Reed, and head over to your father's."

Clara suddenly realized that this wedding required hardly any effort on her part. Everything was being taken care of for her. The sensation of being cherished and doted on wasn't half bad.

The stylist and dressmaker were already on standby. They picked out a pristine white dress from the latest season's collection for Clara. Her makeup was done with delicate precision, enhancing her natural beauty.

The couple drove off, hearts racing with excitement toward city hall. Ian had opted not to pull any strings, choosing instead to queue up like any other couple about to embark on matrimonial bliss.

When the robotic voice finally called their number, Clara's grip tightened. She seized Ian's arm, her eyes sparkling with clarity. "Ian, it's our turn."

Ian playfully tapped her dainty nose. "Mrs. Hayes, no backing out now." Then, he guided her to the service window.

They filled out a form together and then went on to take their photo. Ian looked at the photo. He had a grin so big it looked like it could take flight. He snapped a picture with his phone and uploaded it to his social network. [What's it like to have a wife who looks this gorgeous, even with a government ID?]

The comments and well-wishes flowed in almost instantly.

Clara's phone rang – it was Sasha. "Clara, did you and Ian actually go through with it?"

"Yep, just finished taking the picture, waiting to pick up the certificate now."

"Chase said you guys planned to marry before the year's out. What's the rush? You're not pregnant, are you?"

Clara laughed off the suggestion and filled Sasha in on Reed's condition.

Sasha sighed, "Grandpa Reed's illness has handed Ian an advantage, but as long as you're sure, you've got my full support. And let me tell you, I will be your maid of honor. No one's gonna fight me for it."

"You've got it. I'll have the most beautiful maid of honor dress made just for you."

"That's more like it."

After a bit more chit-chat, they ended the call. Clara looked up to see Ian also busy on the phone. A wave of indescribable happiness washed over her. Marrying the man she loved and being showered with blessings from friends – it had to be the happiest thing in the world.

Ian hung up and came over to Clara with a smile. "Ready, Clara? You're about to officially be Mrs. Hayes."

His voice was tender, his gaze entwined with affection, stirring Clara's heart. She reached out her hand, smiling. "Let's go, my dear husband."

Hand in hand, they returned to the window and handed their photo to the clerk.

Just then, Ian's cell phone rang. It was the landline from home, and he answered immediately.

Through the phone, the servant's crying voice was urgent, "Mr. Hayes, Mr. Reed... Reed's taken a turn for the worse. You need to come home right away."