Chapter 11: The Good Friend

Ryker's POV

"Are you all right?"

We were the subject of nonstop photography when we went onto the red carpet. I felt Claire's surprise a bit. She gave me a slight glance.

"Yeah, I'm fine," Claire whispered. She was surprised when I put my arm around her waist and pulled her closer, making her hold my shoulder. Her forehead was almost as high as my lips, so she looked up at me. I just stared at her.

"I told you I needed heels when I was with you."

I stared at her. "Your height is perfect." I looked down at her lips. "A perfect height for a sweet, passionate kiss." Claire was a bit surprised.

"Are you teasing me, or will you seriously do it?" she asked.

If I didn't like Claire, I would have responded to her flirting with me, but I knew she was kidding, so I had to stop myself, even though her jokes and teasing made me feel drawn to her.

"I would love to, but I have a stubborn sister, and you have a stubborn best friend who needs our help tonight, so we have to go find her." I smiled.

Cl