Binding 13

"I don’t need to ask, Claire," I croaked out. "I already know the answer."

"Then don’t ask him," she quickly said. "Just make up an excuse or something and come over to mine. We don’t even have to go with the lads."

I sighed heavily. "Claire –"

"We can have di

"Stop it," I warned her, shivering at the thought.

Claire laughed down the line. "I'm kidding."

"You better be," I grumbled. "Because I would die."

"So, do you want to do that?" she asked, smothering her laughter. "Come over to mine for a takeaway and a movie? Or we could go to the cinema? Or out to eat at a restaurant? Whatever you want," she told me. "It's your choice and my treat."

"I love you for offering," I told her, biting down on my lip to stop it from wobbling. "But you know he'll never allow it."

Claire sighed heavily. "Shan…"

"Don’t," I pleaded quietly. "Please don’t say anything."

There was a long pause before she whispered, "I won't."

I sagged in relief. "Thank you."

"I'm here for you," was all Claire replied in a sad tone of voice. "Forever."