Building Her Throne Burying My Heart (Claire) novel Chapter 94

“I need to eat well and get some sleep this morning. If I show up tonight looking half-dead, you’re the one who’ll be embarrassed.”

Claire didn’t reply, just kept her head down and ate. I took that as her way of agreeing.

After breakfast, I went back to my room, showered, ate a little more, and crawled back into bed.

That night, Claire tossed a suit at me. “Put this on. Don’t make me look bad.”

I changed, swallowed an antacid, and tucked some painkillers in my pocket before heading out. After last night’s fever, I was still so weak it felt like I’d fall over if I moved too quickly. If I hadn’t slept for a few hours, I probably wouldn’t have been able to get up at all.

I’d looked it up online. Apparently, these symptoms were normal in the early stages. Still, every time I got sick, it hit me harder, lasted longer, and kept coming back more often. If this kept up, I figured I didn’t have much time left.

When we arrived at the venue, I got out first and opened Claire’s door for her. For a second, I thought she’d let me play the part of her escort. I stood beside her, offered my arm, trying to look like a gentleman. She just rolled her eyes at me.

“What are you doing? Carry my bag and follow me. That’s all I need from you.”

Garrison was already waiting at the entrance. As soon as he saw Claire, he rushed over.

“Claire, you’re finally here.”

He glanced at her outfit and couldn’t help but lay it on thick.

“Claire, you look amazing tonight. No one here even comes close.”

Right then, it clicked for me. Claire hadn’t brought me for company. This was another way to get under my skin.

I kept my eyes down, ignoring their little love show as they linked arms and headed into the ballroom. My whole body ached, but I had no choice except to trail a few steps behind, ready to jump in if they needed anything.

I followed them around as they chatted with guests. Garrison introduced Claire to everyone.

“This is my fiancée. We’re getting engaged next month. You have to come celebrate with us.”

“Of course, congratulations.”

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