Chapter 134 lan quipped again, âHas she ever made you bleed?â âNot at all.â Dawson shook his head immediately. His girlfriendâs punches were nothing more than playful love taps. He wasnât like lan, who was always courting disaster. lan gave him a knowing look. âBleeding is a sign of true love, my friend. What you have is more of a bed buddy. Itâs nothing compared to what Clara and I have.â Dawson thought to himself, âMr. Hayes, have you no shame? You and Attorney Clara are on the outs. She wonât even give you the time of day, and here you are, still claiming itâs true love?â But as a savvy subordinate, Dawson quickly replied with a grin, âOf course, my relationship doesnât hold a candle to the fiery saga between you and Attorney Clara. All tonâ
again, offâagain passionâthatâs real love. My situation is just too bland by comparison.â lan shot him a glance. âDo I detect a hint of sarcasm?â âNo sarcasm, Mr. Hayes. Iâm just stating the cold, hard facts.â As they were bantering, a tall figure appeared at the doorway. Ryker strolled in, decked out in casual wear topped with a baseball cap. He leaned against the doorframe with an easy grin. âMs. Clara dumped you ages ago, and youâre still clinging to her, lan. I never knew you were so shameless.â lanâs gaze met Rykerâs eagleâlike eyes as he retorted, âShameless? Take a look in the mirror. Youâre no better than a street rat, a disgrace to your grandfatherâs legacy.â âlan, watch your mouth. Donât make me come over there and teach you a lesson.â lan raised an eyebrow. âYou? Beat me in a fight? When has that ever happened?â From childhood to adulthood, Ryker had always been the one to take the fall. Even with years of military experience, he couldnât best lan. Amidst their squabble, Clara returned with medicine in hand. She handed the meds to Dawson, briefly explained the dosage and instructions, and then added, âMake sure he doesnât get it wet when you change the dressing. Iâve got to head back to the firm.â Suddenly, lan called out to her, âDawsonâs all thumbs. Heâll botch the job. Come over tonight and change my dressing.â Clara refused without a second thought, âIf youâre not happy with his work, come to the hospital.â âClara, you think you can just hit me and walk away?â lan stood up, grabbing her wrist. He wouldnât miss this chance to be close to Clara. 1/2 Claraâs cold gaze fell upon him. âWhy did I hit you, Mr. Hayes? Have you forgotten? It was selfâdefense at best. Even the best lawyer couldnât sue me for that.â A sharp pain pierced lanâs heart. He lowered his voice, âClara, I just want you to change. my dressing. Otherwise, Iâll have to ask Casey.â âTan, canât we keep our issues between us and not involve others?â lanâs lips twisted into a bitter smile. âThen come over tonight and help me.â Without responding, Clara turned and left. Ryker shot lan a rude gesture before catching up to Clara. He was all bravado moments ago but instantly softened around Clara. âMs. Clara, I got you breakfastâyour favorite from that spot you love.â lan clenched his teeth in frustration. He turned to Dawson with a cold gaze. âThe national network has been hounding me for an interview, right? Tell them itâs set for 10 a.m. today in my office.â Dawson looked puzzled. âMr. Hayes, arenât you worried about ruining your image?
Especially since right now youâre-â lanâs deep eyes shimmered with a hint of defiance. âWhatâs the big deal about getting hit by your woman? Itâs not the end of the world.â