Elio was about to take Alex out when his phone rang. The caller ID showed it was Leah Calloway.
Why would she call him now?
He glanced at Alex and answered the call, lowering his voice, "What's up?"
"Elio, can I see the kid? I'm worried about Emmett prying into my connection with him."
"Didn't Emmett already say he won't ask anymore?"
"But are you sure he won't change his mind? Or get curious why the kid and I don't look alike?"
Elio was silent for a few seconds.
He honestly couldn't be sure.
"Well, I'm with Alex right now, about to grab some grub. You should join us!"
"Alright!"
After hanging up, Elio explained the situation to Alex.
Although Alex didn't quite understand what was happening, he nodded anyway, "I'll do as Mr. Milburn says. I know he's looking out for me."
Elio ruffled his hair, grinning, "You're quite the smooth talker; who do you take after?"
He thought of Clara's shy demeanour and then Emmett.
Alex was more like himself!
"Haha! I'm telling the truth because Mr. Milburn is good to me."
"Good boy! Once your mom is safe from this trouble, you guys won't need me anymore. But I'll still come visit."
He was just worried Emmett might not allow it.
"I'll miss you, Mr. Milburn."
Her heart sank, and she quickly called Elio.
After a few rings, Elio's voice came on.
"What's up?"
"Is Alex with you?"
"Yeah! He said he was hungry, so I took him out for a bite. Are you okay!?"
"I'm fine! Emmett didn't give me a hard time. He seems to believe in the person you arranged."
"I think he just wants to get this over with. With you around, he doesn't want to dwell on it."
Clara lowered her head, covering the blush on her cheeks, sounding somewhat guilty, "Elio, thank you! Without your plans and help, I honestly don't know what Alex and I would've done."
"How could I not help you at a time like this? Besides, Alex is a cutie; I've already considered him my own! Don't overthink it; live well after you return to Emmett."

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