"Yes. I.. uhm.. just wanted to let you know that Claire is coming over to stay with us for a couple of days," he said evenly. "She's feeling... lonely, given everything with Jake."
Emma blinked, her voice neutral. "Oh, okay."
Her lack of reaction stung, though Alex told himself it was to be expected. She was probably feeling uncomfortable by the prospect of having Claire around.
It was his fault. He mused, guilt gnawing at him. He probably should've been firm in his decision. He shouldn't have let Claire talk her way out.
"I hope that won't make you uncomfortable. I know Claire can be... intense at times. But if you'd rather, I can ask her to not to come. You don't have to pretend to be okay around her."
"It's fine, Alex," Emma replied softly. "Really. I won't be uncomfortable around Claire. You don't need to worry."
