Chapter 13: What News?
As they drove back home from the registry, Alex's phone buzzed beside him. Glancing at the screen, he saw his sister Claire's name flash up.
Sighing, he signaled Emma before pulling over at a safe spot on the side of the road. He knew Claire well enough to know that when she called, it wasn't just for a quick chat.
"Hey Claire, how are you?" Alex asked as soon as he picked up, trying to keep his tone neutral.
"Hi, Alex. I'm fine, thank you. I was wondering if you'd like to come over for dinner tonight?" Claire's voice was calm, but Alex could sense there was more behind the invitation.
"Dinner?" He glanced over at Emma, who was watching him quietly. "Yeah, sure. I can be there in about an hour or two," he said and Claire smiled.
"Perfect. I'll be expecting you then," Claire replied before hanging up abruptly.
Alex slid his phone into his pocket and turned to Emma, who seemed even more uneasy now. He studied her expression, her face pale and her eyes clouded with worry. He gently placed a hand on hers.
"That was my sister, Claire," he said and chuckled softly, realizing Emma knew Claire already. He looked at her, his expression turning to that of worry when he saw her face. He could sense that she was frightened.
"What's the problem? You seem scared. I assure you that it's nothing and you are completely safe I promise. I won't abandon you if that's what you're scared of," Alex said with reassuringly and Emma nodded, but the fear in her eyes didn't subside.