Chapter 89 - Chapter 88

@International_Pen

((( CLAIRE )))

I finally understood why he unquestioningly followed Zhion's whims back in Vill-A-Mos.

"Now that we're all here. I'd like you to meet my girlfriend, Claire."

I felt ashamed at Derick's words. Who am I to be introduced with such pride? I shyly bowed my head.

Unlike the rest of the men, both Wenziel and Eriez looked at me with sudden curiosity. Zhio stared at me with similar enthusiasm and smiled sharply.

"I see."

My heart was about to explode. I felt unexpected feverish warmth creeping up my face. I wanted to disappear, anywhere but at that place.

All has seated, so Derick guided me back to our seats. I was, in the most undesirable circumstance, beside Zhio. He was silent all throughout as the men started their business talks. The attorney spoke for him most of the time and all he did was modestly nod.

I felt a gaze burning at the side of my face. I knew he was looking at me and it made me extremely uncomfortable. I stood up suddenly and caught their unwarranted attention,

"Excuse me."

I wanted to melt. I don't want to look smug but I can't bear everything anymore.  

"What's wrong darling?" Mrs. Brundon asked.

"Ah, I…need to go to the comfort room," I lied.

"I'll take you there," Derick stood up and held my hand.

He must have had noticed my discomfort and knew I really wasn't going to pee. He understood anyway and led me to the back garden.  

"Do we have a problem?" he asked in the most sympathetic way he could.

"I'm sorry if you felt out of place. You know, the business talk."

"It's fine. I think I just need some rest."

I relished the sudden silence of the place and felt the urge to cry. But I stopped myself for the sake of Derick's pride. He did nothing wrong to make me feel this way. It was just me with my hurt ego that felt like a low, under the middle class damsel.  

"You need to go back Derick. They must be looking for you. I'm fine here alone,"

I forced a smile.

"I can't leave you here."

"It's alright," I sighed.

"Just tell them I met some people I knew here and needed to do some catching up. And…I'm sorry if I embarrassed you."

"Embarrassed? Why would I?" he grinned.

"Okay. If that's what you want. I'll take you back later."

He suddenly pulled me in a hug and kissed my forehead. I was surprised. They say a kiss in the forehead was a sign of genuine love and respect.

Did he meant it that way too?

@International_Pen