Chapter 70: Juicy Details
"Yes. I.. uhm.. just wanted to let you know that Claire is coming over to stay with us for a couple of days," he said evenly. "She's feeling... lonely, given everything with Jake."
Emma blinked, her voice neutral. "Oh, okay."
Her lack of reaction stung, though Alex told himself it was to be expected. She was probably feeling uncomfortable by the prospect of having Claire around.
It was his fault. He mused, guilt gnawing at him. He probably should've been firm in his decision. He shouldn't have let Claire talk her way out.
"I hope that won't make you uncomfortable. I know Claire can be... intense at times. But if you'd rather, I can ask her to not to come. You don't have to pretend to be okay around her."
"It's fine, Alex," Emma replied softly. "Really. I won't be uncomfortable around Claire. You don't need to worry."
Her reassurance should've put him at ease, but instead, it unsettled him. He felt like there was more unsaid words between them, but he didn't know how to address it. "Are you sure? I can make other arrangements if—"
"Alex," she interrupted gently, "I'm sure. I can handle it."
Alex paused, his fingers drumming lightly against the desk. "She's arriving this morning. Will you be okay managing things with her on your own until I get back?"
"Yes, I'll be fine," Emma assured him, though a part of her wondered why he sounded so worried.
Was it because of the promise he made to her or was there something more?