His new stepsister His biggest threat (Claire and Elijah) novel Chapter 155

**TITLE: Betrayal Births by Joseph King 155**
**CONTENT: Chapter 155**

**Claire’s POV**

Elijah effortlessly tossed my bag over his shoulder, as if it were made of feathers rather than the weighty contents it held.

For a fleeting moment, he wore an expression of pride, as if he had just accomplished a monumental feat. I had to avert my gaze, stifling a smile that threatened to betray my composure. He certainly didn’t need any more encouragement; he was already too confident for his own good.

As we stepped outside, the cool evening air wrapped around me like a gentle embrace, a refreshing contrast to the stuffy confines of the classroom. The sky had begun to turn that lovely shade of amber that signaled the day’s end, and it struck me that we had wrapped up our day much earlier than usual.

Clusters of students meandered across the courtyard, their laughter ringing out like music. Some were animatedly recounting the day’s events, while others were vocally lamenting the assignments that loomed over them like dark clouds.

It was such a quintessentially ordinary scene that for a moment, I almost forgot the reality of my own situation—the part of me that constantly observed from the shadows, always alert, always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

As we approached the parking lot, Elijah slowed his pace, his expression shifting to one of quiet concern that he no longer bothered to mask.

“Hey,” he said, stealing a glance at me from the corner of his eye. “How about we go somewhere tonight? Just the two of us. Maybe a park? Get some fresh air?”

His words hung in the air, seemingly mundane, yet they sent a delightful flutter through my stomach that I hadn’t anticipated.

“Tonight?” I echoed, trying to sound casual, though my heart raced. “Like, right after we get home?”

“Yeah,” he replied, a small, almost shy smile playing on his lips. “We can freshen up first. Take our time. No rush.”

A peculiar giddiness blossomed within me. I had spent the entire day outside, navigating a whirlwind of emotions, and yet the thought of a simple walk in the park with Elijah made my heart race with excitement. “Okay,” I said, my voice tinged with eagerness. “That sounds… nice.”

He nodded as if my agreement was something he had anticipated. “Good. Let’s head home first, then.”

When we pulled into the driveway, the warm glow of the setting sun bathed the house in a golden light, making it appear almost welcoming. I spotted Mom bustling around in the kitchen, her cheerful demeanor instantly lifting my spirits.

As we entered, she turned to us, her face lighting up at the sight of me. “Claire, darling, you’re home early!” she exclaimed, her eyes quickly scanning my face for any signs of distress. “Everything okay at school?”

“Yeah, everything is fine,” I reassured her, perhaps a bit too quickly. “Really.”

Her expression softened as she took in my slight fatigue. “Good. I’ve been keeping busy, too. I started taking cooking classes!” She gestured around the kitchen with a proud smile, her enthusiasm infectious. “I want to make the very best meals for your sibling in my tummy. Everything has to be perfect, of course.” She looked so blissful and dreamy, like a child lost in a world of imagination.

I couldn’t help but chuckle softly, nudging her playfully. “You’re already perfect, Mom. But I appreciate the effort. You always want the best for everyone, don’t you?”

With a playful bow, she replied, “Of course! Someone has to set the standard.”

I shook my head, a smile still lingering on my lips. “Well, Elijah and I are going out for a stroll before dinner. Just a little walk. Don’t wait up for us, okay?”

Mom’s eyes sparkled with mischief. “No problem! Enjoy your time together. Fresh air does wonders.”

I waved goodbye and followed Elijah up the stairs to my room. As the door clicked shut behind me, I let out a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding, acutely aware of the excitement bubbling within me. I wanted to look nice, and the thought of Elijah waiting outside made my heart race. I silently scolded myself.

Get a grip, Claire. It’s just a walk with Elijah. Nothing more. You don’t need to treat it like a date.

Despite my internal reasoning, I found myself putting in extra effort. I quickly brushed my hair, smoothing it down and tucking away any rebellious strands that dared to escape.

Choosing an outfit that was both nice and understated, I aimed for a look that would draw his attention for the right reasons—because he was Elijah, not because I was trying too hard.

Once I felt presentable, I took a deep breath and opened my bedroom door. There he was, waiting on the front steps, leaning casually against the railing, engrossed in his phone.

For a heartbeat, I froze, feeling that familiar flutter in my chest. When he looked up and our eyes met, the smile that broke across his face made everything feel lighter, as if the weight of the day had lifted from my shoulders.

“Ready?” he asked softly, his voice low enough that it felt like a secret just between us.

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