Chapter 198

Claire's POV I hesitated, finger hovering over the call button. "Just call him already," Stella urged inside my mind. "What's the worst that could happen?" "Oh, I don't know," I replied. "Maybe he'll reveal he's actually some evil mastermind who wants to use me in his diabolical plan?" Stella rolled her eyes. "Or maybe he'll give you a job so we can pay rent next month." Good point. With part of my savings going to help Joey's mom, I desperately needed work. I took a deep breath and dialed the number. He picked up before the third ring. "Claire Pierce," Cyrus's smooth voice came through, sounding amused. "I was wondering when you'd call." My heart skipped. How did he know it was me? I hadn't even said anything yet. "I... um, yes, it's me," I stammered, mentally kicking myself for sounding so nervous. "What can I do for you?" he asked casually. "Remember when we met, you mentioned something about a job opportunity?" I bit my lip, hating how desperate I sounded. "Is that offer still avai